2016 School Magazine

NGLAND

Interhouse Cross Country and Athletics were also very successful events for the England Eagles as each girl committed enthusiastically to trying her best. The Eagles’ hard work and determination led to more incredible results as England ‘soared above the rest’ to place first and second overall, in these respective events. England also secured the Athletics relay trophy for the third consecutive year, a remarkable team effort. Unification was our goal for the year; England House as an inclusive and supportive family, competitive outside our House but not within. As House Captains, we initiated the concept of England Nests. At England House assemblies, girls split into thirteen Nests, which included two girls from each year level. The girls then participated in a range of activities and challenges to gain points for their Nest. The aim of these activities was to promote interactions and connections between Eagles of all ages and year levels. Not only did this allow new friendships to flourish but it also supported a peer mentoring system that we hope will continue for many years to come. We were thrilled that this initiative was so successful. Girls who may not otherwise have sought one another out, had the chance to bond in a relaxed, safe, fun and welcoming environment. This year, England has matured as a House and strengthened as a competitive force against rival houses. As England House Captains, we feel sad to be leaving our beloved England House, however, we take some heart that our leadership nurtured a lasting legacy of an even more unified England spirit. We have served to the best of our ability and had the privilege of leading so many extraordinary Eagles. We are grateful for this opportunity and for the support of our Head of House, Ms Stark. We look forward to passing the Captaincy baton, with boundless best wishes, to the incoming House Captains for 2017.

ENGLAND EAGLES Inspired by our House Motto, ‘Take to the sky, as eagles we fly’, England girls were encouraged to be involved, courageous and spirited throughout the entire year. We wanted to see England girls become more collegiate and enthusiastically embrace the essence of the honour of being both in England House and a Grammar girl. At the England House Party in Term I, the girls’ commitment to friendliness and house spirit was undeniably present. Many of us dived into the beach theme, donning hula skirts, leis and floral garb. Games of limbo, pool lawn volleyball and dancing filled the afternoon, and lasting memories were made as we shared delicious pizza and cake. For the Year 12s participating in the House Party, the afternoon spent with 150 England Eagles was a very special ‘last’. Another highlight in the School calendar was the swimming carnival. England House spirit was loud and proud on show at the first Interhouse event of the year and this was reflected in our amazing result at the end of the day. England had a record number of girls participating, cheering and helping out, and England made their mark by securing third place.

JESSICA LAKEMAN AND ALICE WHITING HOUSE CAPTAINS

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