Ravenswood boarders host a week of fun

It began with a visit from day girls and their families to the Ravenswood Residential College (RRC) for afternoon tea and tours of the facility, including the new senior wing, constructed over the Christmas holiday break.

At a special assembly, the boarders screened a video they produced to showcase a day in the life of a Ravenswood boarder, including light-hearted interviews with the boarders themselves.

They also organised a fundraising Jersey Day, inviting day girls to come to school in their favourite jerseys and enjoy a barbecue to raise money for the Country Education Foundation. 

Boarding captain Arabella Stewart and vice-captain Chloe Blatchford say the charity gives disadvantaged rural and regional students access to further education, training and careers and as such, is very close to their hearts.

“Boarding at Ravenswood has offered us not only an excellent education but access to opportunities, like in cadets and other co-curricular activities,” Arabella said.

“We want to help the Country Education Foundation give the same chance to young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.”

The residential college is a short walk from the campus and offers boutique boarding for 50 girls in Years 7 to 12.  The boarders enjoy a tight-knit, mature, safe community where lifelong friendships and bonds can be made.

The RRC was refurbished in 2017 and is a modern, stylish and comfortable home away from home. Head of boarding Jackie Gilson is trained in Positive Education and works hard to ensure a family community, encouraging girls to share their experiences and develop a strong sense of connection with their fellow boarders. 

Ravenswood also offers short-stay boarding and on occasions Global Exchange students stay in the RRC as weekly or full boarders. 

“These exchanges provide a wonderful opportunity for our boarders to learn about cultures from across the world,” Mrs Gilson said.