I know we say this often but... WOW what a week!!

The St Hilda's staff lunch was a success on Friday. We loved welcoming the teaching and support staff up for a poke bowl lunch in the sunshine. It was a great chance for everyone to take a look around and enjoy some delicious food together.

On Saturday the girls headed off to Hot Yoga, which was a first for many. The cold Dunedin weather meant this was the perfect activity, stretching in tropical temperatures! 🌴

Sunday rolled around which meant it was time for our much anticipated Grandparents High Tea. The sun was streaming into the dining room, making the setting even more welcoming! Robyn had been busy baking sweet treats for days, pulling together the most amazing afternoon (with the help of our wonderful kitchen and house staff). With over 85 guests, the dining room was full of chatter, smiles and entertaining stories! We hope you all enjoyed a special afternoon together, sipping on tea and pink lemonade 💕 Check out the photos below to see the incredible food and 'High Tea' setting.

The completion of our Grandparents High Tea marked the end of New Zealand Boarding Week. We had such an enjoyable few days, celebrating with one another and our wider community. Take a look at the Boarding Week flyer below to see everything we got up to! Bring on the 2022 celebrations 😜

On Tuesday our after school activity was a trip to the movies. We went to see the new film 'Free Guy', enjoying the snippets of New Zealand humor - thanks to Taika Waititi! After munching on pleeeenty of movie snacks, we were quite shocked to be walking out to hear of a Level 4 Lockdown!

We want to say a big 'well done' to the girls for how they responded on Tuesday evening. We were very impressed with how everyone calmly packed bags and supported one another. It truly shows how strong the bond between students is and we know you will be there for each other (online!) over the next wee while. To the Tolcarne community, thank you for your quick response! Coming to collect your daughters last minute, bringing down local vans to get more students home and offering to assist in meeting families/friends halfway was greatly appreciated. And a special mention to our house and kitchen staff, who had all of the answers within minutes and a smile on their faces!

For the rest of the week we have been completing a lockdown diary - Tolcarne style! With various challenges and recipe ideas, we have been trying our best to keep connected with one another.

Mrs Rathbone had to find space for the bread delivery in an already packed freezer! — Image by: Isla Huffadine

Seeing the Tolcarne community out on local runs, taking their pets on walks, experimenting in the kitchen and finding tasks to keep them busy, sure has put a smile on our faces. To join in with our 'virtual bubble' make sure to check out our Facebook and instagram accounts!

Josie and her dog getting some fresh air — Image by: Isla Huffadine

Our day two task was a cooking challenge. After receiving the photos from staff and students, I was feeling rather hungry!! The presentation and creativity shown was amazing. Milly Kerr and her 'jelly slice' took out the overall win, with Honor Garden and her 'raw caramel slice' coming second. It was a very close competition for our judge Ross to pick from, so I will have prizes and Tribe Points for all once we are back! Check out the rest of the entries below...

Milly's winning 'Jelly Slice' — Image by: Isla Huffadine

Honor's second place 'Raw Caramel Slice' with dates and tahini — Image by: Isla Huffadine

We love how connected everyone is and can't wait to see more of what you guys get up to over the weekend 💟 So until we see you next, take it easy, be kind to yourself and check in (online!!) with friends and family. A smiley snapchat or message can go a lot further than you may think! We can do this #Tolcarnefamily

The Duke of Edinburgh's Gold Award