From the Boarding School
There was much excitement in the air as we welcomed 18 of our 2025 Year 7s to Pymble last Friday. It is always such fun to welcome new Boarders to our super-sized Boarding family and this first transition day was no exception. The morning started with a gathering in Avonmoore. This was an opportunity for the girls to meet their Boarding sisters and for them to meet us. Our prefects then introduced themselves and took our newest recruits off for Links Day in the day school. Meanwhile, our families had the opportunity to get to know each other and meet key staff before enjoying a presentation on getting ready for Boarding.
Boarders Get Baking was next on the agenda for our busy girls and this was followed by a delicious dinner and swim in the pool. With the girls happily ensconced in Avonmoore for the evening, our families headed off for a lovely dinner together. I am not sure who had more fun!
A Spooky Tuesday
Our beautiful Boarding houses were all set to scare, and it was lovely to have our youngest Pymble students visit for a healthy dose of trick or treating. Of course, our Boarders didn’t miss out either and we were incredibly grateful to one of our day school families who once again delivered a bounty of delicious treats for our Boarders. We are so grateful for the generosity of these families, and while the treats are delicious and dress ups are fun, it is the thoughtfulness, generosity and kindness of our wonderful day school family that has made our Halloween so special.
Live It, Love It, Learn It – Ms Theresa Mimmo, Deputy Director of Boarding
The Boarders had a great time in the pool on Friday night enjoying an “all-in” water polo game. On Saturday, we welcomed Year 7 and 8 Knox Boarders for some fun with trick or treat, and Addi and Ella along with some helpers did a fantastic job of organising and running the activities. Several Boarders were entertained with the Sydney Kings basketball match on Sunday. This week, Year 7 will enjoy a picnic, there is an adventure walk and a trip to Cabramatta to enjoy the delights it has to offer.
All Boarders have been working hard during the Learn It program, particularly with several assessments at this time of year. The academic staff will be here till the second last week of term so all Boarders are encouraged to continue to check in with them to refine their skills.
View From My Window
Hi, my name is Margaux. I’m 14 years old and come from the city of Hong Kong. I live in Cyberport which is known for its blend of nature and technology. It’s on the edge of the city with the ocean on one side and hills on the other.
I was born and raised in Hong Kong. My dad, Marcus, is a doctor, while my mum, May, is a businesswoman. Then there’s my younger sister, Marlene, who’s 11 and still in primary school, and our dog, Momo, a curious naughty Shiba Inu. We also have our auntie, she helps take care of things at home. She mainly helps Marlene but also looks out for me, because I am very forgetful.
When I look out my window, I can see the sea stretching out toward Lamma Island, with houses lining the shore and hills wrapping around the city. There’s always something on the water, from huge cargo ships gliding towards the port to small boats making their way across the harbour. But what I love the most is those few moments just before sunset, when the light reflects off the water and the glass buildings, turning everything a beautiful silver-golden colour. It’s like the whole city shimmers.
The buzz of city life is all around, with buses and trains carrying people to work or school early in the morning. On my balcony, Momo likes to poke her head through the railing, watching the people and boats go past. Sometimes, auntie takes her for a walk along the waterfront, and I watch as they disappear down the path, their figures slowly blending into the landscape.
Travelling from Australia to Hong Kong takes about 9 hours by plane, and while I’ve grown up in the fast-paced city, I’ve found a different rhythm at Pymble. I enjoy walking by the agriculture plot and seeing the farm animals, which is a very rare sight in Hong Kong’s bustling streets.
I miss the convenience of Hong Kong, where shops stay open until very late at night, and the huge variety of food. My favourite treats are shaved ice, spicy hot pot, and bubble tea. Boarding at Pymble has introduced me to a chaotic, family/friend-like atmosphere, and I love experiencing the different culture and people here.
I miss after-school adventures with my friends, taking the bus down to the Valley, walking together, eating, and chatting. However, I also enjoy the late-night talks with my roommates at Pymble. When I look out my window, I’m reminded of Hong Kong, but I also cherish the slower pace here. My favourite place is wherever my friends and family are; they bring me joy, whether we’re sharing a bowl of hot pot or enjoying sweet mango shaved ice on a hot day.
Boarder of the Week
Year 10 Boarder Summer joined us in Term 3 from Brisbane, Queensland and quickly became a much-loved, lively and friendly presence in Goodlet House. Summer can regularly be seen chatting happily to Boarders of all ages in the kitchen of an evening and she embraces all things Boarding.
She is an outstanding rower and manages to always keep a smile on her face despite the early starts and busy schedule. Her room is always immaculate, and she wears her uniform with pride. Summer is always ready to volunteer her time; most recently she was a welcoming and helpful presence with our 2025 Year 7s who were visiting and was instrumental in helping the Trick for Treat event be so successful.
Thank you, Summer, for your enthusiasm and many contributions to our Boarding family, you are a well deserving Boarder of the week!
Important Dates
Friday 15 November – Lang House Housewarming – Year 12 2025 and their families
Tuesday 26 November – Boarders’ Christmas Chapel and Christmas Dinner, 5.00pm (all Boarders required to be in attendance)
Wednesday 4 December – Year 7 to 10 Speech Day, followed by Boarders’ Travel Day
Carolyn Burgess
Head of Boarding