The second half of the term at Haileybury Rendall School has continued to build on the strong and positive foundations established earlier in the year. Our boarding community remains vibrant and connected, with students embracing a wide range of opportunities that foster both personal growth and a strong sense of belonging.
A particular highlight has been our Harmony Week celebrations, which provided meaningful opportunities for students to engage with and celebrate culture. Our cooking activities once again brought students together in the kitchen, sharing food, stories and traditions in a way that reflects the diversity of our community. In addition, students enthusiastically participated in spear making and basket weaving sessions. These hands-on experiences not only allowed students to develop new skills, but also deepened their understanding and appreciation of cultural practices and the importance of learning from one another.
With the weather improving, we have seen a shift towards greater participation in outdoor activities. Fishing has become an increasingly popular pastime, giving students the chance to unwind, enjoy the natural environment and spend quality time together. It has been wonderful to see students making the most of these opportunities and building connections outside of their usual routines.
Our weekend program has remained a key feature of boarding life, offering a balance of fun and relaxation. Recent outings to mini golf and bowling have been highlights, with strong student attendance and plenty of laughter shared. These experiences continue to play an important role in strengthening friendships and creating lasting memories.
We are also incredibly proud of our students’ involvement and success in sport. Several students have celebrated football premiership wins, a testament to their dedication, teamwork and commitment throughout the season. Additionally, many of our students have enjoyed attending football finals as spectators, immersing themselves in the excitement of the wider sporting community.
Throughout this period, our ongoing focus on connection, respect and participation has remained central to life in boarding. These values continue to guide our daily interactions and ensure that every student feels supported and valued as part of our community.
As we approach the end of term, we are proud of all that has been achieved and look forward to finishing the term with the same energy and sense of togetherness that has defined the year so far.
Harmony Celebrations in Boarding
As part of Harmony Week celebrations, our young men in Boarding recently took part in a meaningful and hands-on cultural activity of fish spear making with our Indigenous student wellbeing co-ordinator Tim Muhamad.
This experience provided students with the opportunity to connect with a different culture, learn new skills and gain a deeper appreciation for Torres Strait knowledge and practices that have been passed down through generations. Under the guidance of Tim, the young men explored the process of using contemporary materials, shaping the spear and using wood working tools. The young men shared knowledge of their own ways of making spears and the significance of the spear for survival, identity and storytelling.
The activity sparked great conversations, curiosity and pride among the students.
It was particularly powerful to see the young men share their own cultural knowledge while engaging with genuine knowledge and respect. This aligned perfectly with the Harmony week message, recognising that our diversity makes us stronger and learning from one another is important.
Beyond practical skills, the session reinforced important values of patience, respect for culture and the importance of passing on knowledge to keep traditions alive.
It was a fantastic way to celebrate Harmony week and continue to build a strong, inclusive HRS. Special mention to Caleb Liddy and Kadum Martin who were identified as leaders in the group and got to keep the spears to take home to use on school holidays.
Tom Ziebell
Head of Boarding
