Published on: 14 May 2026





Christ Church has been marking National Boarding Week with a series of events celebrating the connection, independence, and community spirit at the heart of boarding life.

The week began on campus with a shared community initiative bringing together students from Christ Church, Methodist Ladies’ College, Scotch College, Presbyterian Ladies’ College, and St Hilda’s Anglican School for Girls. Students decorated birthday cakes for families staying at Ronald McDonald House, as part of a nationwide initiative delivered through the Australian Boarding Schools Association in partnership with It’s the Little Things. The activity set the tone for the week, with students focused on giving back.

Throughout the week, boarders welcomed their day boy peers into the Walters Residential Community for Tutorials, offering a glimpse into boarding life. On Monday, day boys, staff and guests were invited into Walters Boarding House for an ‘open afternoon’, while students also enjoyed a mechanical bucking bull on the Chapel forecourt. On Tuesday, boarders faced off against day boys in the annual lunchtime soccer match, which will be followed today by the much-anticipated basketball game between boarders and boarding staff.

Director of Boarding Todd Harnwell said the week reflects the strength and spirit of the residential community.

“Our boarders are supported by a broad team of staff, including Year Group Coordinators and their families, Housemothers, Health Centre staff, and Residential Assistants,” he said.

“Together, we work to ensure every boy is known, valued, and supported as an individual and as part of the residential community.”

“National Boarding Week is an opportunity to celebrate the connection, belonging, and growth that boarding fosters. It also highlights the important role it plays in students’ lives.”