There is no doubt that Lockdown 6.0 has been the most challenging yet – mainly because it was so unexpected after recently coming out of the previous lockdown.

However, as always, our Boarding community has shown amazing resilience over this time with the girls showing enthusiasm and positivity towards their online classes, physical exercise – mainly walking and running – and the occasional visit to the supermarket in Toorak Village.

Our boarders have used the time within lockdown to hone their culinary skills with a range of meals and treats created in the kitchenette at Illawarra for all to enjoy. We also have a communal puzzle in the lobby and a range of games available.

A positive for all our boarders is the company and support they receive from each other, which has been a great comfort to all over the past three weeks. This week we celebrated two birthdays at Illawarra. We were able to have cakes and treats and instead of decorating the lockers at School, the girls decorated the bedroom areas. It always amazes me how creative our boarders can be!

An important aspect of our nightly routine is our shared activity before dinner. Everyone has the opportunity to engage with each other and take respite from study and devices for a time. Over the past week we have completed the Australian Census – and I must congratulate all our boarders for their efficiency and enthusiasm for this task, along with a meditation session around the yarning circle and a cupcake decorating competition.

It was great fun making a range of cupcakes (red velvet cup cakes were very popular) and seeing the range of decorative skills exhibited by the girls, of course we all agreed the best part was to eat your finished product.

Thank you to all our boarding families for your ongoing support.