At the heart of the concept is the idea of ‘family.’ Students are placed into mixed-age family groups that change each term, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to connect beyond their usual friendship circles or year-level cohorts. With no devices allowed at the table, the focus is firmly on conversation, engagement and fun. Year 12 students take on leadership roles, encouraging discussion – including quieter voices – and modelling what it means to be part of a supportive boarding community.

Amanda Haggie, Director of Boarding explains the initiative, “We want every student to feel part of something bigger than their year level – that sense of being part of a boarding family is incredibly important.”

“We want every student to feel part of something bigger than their year level – that sense of being part of a boarding family is incredibly important.”

As current Boarding House Captains Clara Edgar and Cleo Bond wrote in a card to Amanda Haggie on World Teachers’ Day last year: “You have taught us to live life like no one is watching, that being the loudest in the room is ok.” Monday Night Community Dinners embody that lesson – showing boarders that when they feel safe, seen and supported, they truly thrive.

When describing the dinners, Cleo says, “Our Monday night dinners are probably one of my favourite dinners as I really love seeing how connected everyone is on each table. I love that by just one conversation about how someone’s day went can make someone feel less homesick and more comfortable. I also really love the shout out box, it’s so wholesome to know that that people’s little things that they do in or out of boarding get recognised, as I think everyone should get the chance to be applauded.” Year 11 boarder Mati adds, “It’s a great opportunity for all year levels to come together as a family and it’s really inclusive. You get to chat to people you may not usually talk to and finds out some interesting things about them you may not have known otherwise, it’s really cool.”

“The confidence growth we see through these dinners is remarkable – new friendships form, leadership flourishes and even the quietest students find their voice.”

While Monday nights have always been reserved for announcements and awards, the introduction of structured ‘family dinners’ around five years ago marked a turning point. What began as a way to help everyone in the Boarding House know one another has evolved into a dynamic and student-led program. Each year the format has grown, incorporating new activities, opportunities for leadership and shared experiences that strengthen connections across the house.

In a boarding environment, where students live and grow together every day, the importance of these cross-year ‘families’ cannot be overstated. The Boarding House often speaks of itself as a boarding family, and these dinners make that idea tangible. Younger students gain mentors and role models; older students learn responsibility, empathy and leadership. Over time, the benefits extend well beyond the Dining Hall. Students greet one another during the school day, feel pride in belonging to the boarding crew, and carry themselves with confidence knowing they are part of something bigger.

Friendly competition adds another layer of energy to the evenings. Each family participates in a shared game or challenge, and the excitement is palpable. Teammates encourage one another, celebrate small wins and revel in shared success (and the little prizes they win). The exhilaration of winning as a family – or simply giving something a go – creates bonds that last well beyond the night itself. “The confidence growth we see through these dinners is remarkable – new friendships form, leadership flourishes and even the quietest students find their voice,” Amanda says.

“It’s a great opportunity for all year levels to come together as a family and it’s really inclusive. You get to chat to people you may not usually talk to..." — Mati, Year 11 boarder

Celebration is woven throughout the program. Announcements recognise a wide range of achievements, from academic and sporting success to acts of courage, kindness and generosity. Each acknowledgment is met with enthusiastic cheers, whoops and hollers from fellow boarders, reinforcing the idea that success is something to be shared and celebrated together.

A highlight of the evening is the presentation of the coveted Officially Awesome Award. Chosen by staff each week, it recognises students who have contributed positively to boarding life through kindness, thoughtfulness, helpfulness or community spirit. The pride with which recipients pin the badge to their blazer speaks volumes – and for some Year 12s nearing the end of their boarding journey, earning ‘Officially Awesome’ remains a much-desired goal. “Seeing boarders celebrate one another’s achievements – academic, sporting, or acts of kindness – creates a powerful culture where everyone genuinely wants others to succeed,” Amanda commented.

Another much-loved feature is the shout-out box, filled with notes from students recognising one another. It reflects a community that pays attention, looks out for others and takes joy in celebrating peers. The evening concludes with a student-led ‘With Gratitude’ reflection – a quiet, meaningful moment that signals the close of the gathering and reminds everyone of the importance of gratitude and perspective.

The impact of Monday Night Community Dinners on student wellbeing is clear. Confidence grows, friendships flourish and students become increasingly willing to step outside their comfort zones in a safe, supportive environment. One moment that perfectly captured this spirit was a recent Galentine’s Day celebration, where 18 students volunteered for karaoke – including a Year 8 who was new to boarding. Their willingness to stand up, be heard and have fun was a powerful reminder of how far the community has grown.