LIVE LEARN LEAD
Optimism Compassion Gratitude Respect Resilience
WELCOME TO BOARDING AT THE HAMILTON AND ALEXANDRA COLLEGE
As the Director of Boarding, it is my pleasure to welcome your family to our Boarding House. Alongside a dedicated team of boarding staff, we aim to offer your children an experience in boarding which they will remember fondly for years to come. The Hamilton and Alexandra College is proud of its 150 years of tradition, with boarding a key element of why our school was established with such success.
Boarding at College is an opportunity for each student to grow into who they want to be. It is where young hearts and minds can live, learn and lead into their future. Boarding builds and strengthens the development of each boarder’s confidence, independence, resilience, organisation, and ability to problem solve.
At any stage of entering boarding, the connection between a boarder’s family home and their schooling home is important. Parents are encouraged to attend the annual welcome afternoon tea at the beginning of the year, connect through our Boarding Parents’ Association, and join the termly zoom meetings. In a similar vein, we ask for your support to encourage your children to build on their existing strengths and push their boundaries to try new experiences.
Alongside 15 residential staff who oversee the pastoral care and support of your children, our first priority is the safety of all boarders and I am here to assist your family with a successful transition from your home to ours.
My goal as Director is to create an environment that is inclusive, diverse, kind, and compassionate to each and every boarder and their family. A boarding experience so that each boarder is able to confidently step into their next stage of life knowing who they are and what they can be.
ANDREW MONK Director of Boarding
BE HERE
The Hamilton and Alexandra College Boarding House is located at our Myrniong campus, set in beautifully landscaped gardens and offers coeducational boarding facilities for Years 7 - 12.
Our boarders come from across Victoria, interstate and overseas. Some simply live too far for daily access by bus. Many boarders choose to live at
College to avoid daily commuting or to take advantage of before and after school co-curricular opportunities.
Students join a welcoming, family community where they are supported by a team of skilled and caring staff. They are encouraged to participate and maximise their potential in academic, sporting and leadership
aspects of College life.
Through their involvement in the many opportunities available, and the camaraderie that comes from shared experiences in a communal environment, our students develop a strong sense of belonging and school spirit.
BE HERE TO LIVE LIFE
MACDONALD HOUSE AND SPEIRS HOUSE
Our boarding precinct boasts two main houses, each steeped in history and designed to cater to the needs of our diverse student body.
Both houses are equipped to accommodate up to 65 boarders each, providing a comfortable and nurturing environment for our students.
EMBRACING DIVERSITY AND FOSTERING UNITY
Our students are from diverse backgrounds and places. The staff are caring, highly experienced and professional. They understand the needs of students living away from home and are available for support and guidance. We take immense pride in cultivating an environment that values each individual, nurturing their unique talents and futures.
DEDICATED AND COMPASSIONATE STAFF
Our boarding houses are staffed by experienced, professional, and caring individuals who understand the needs of students living away from home. Staff mentors provide support and guidance, ensuring that each boarder feels secure and empowered whilst in boarding. Their commitment to our students’ wellbeing is a testament to College’s dedication to holistic development.
UNPARALLELED OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH
Girls’ Residence:
Named in honor of Anita Macdonald, an Old Collegian who spearheaded the fundraising campaign for our current boarding site. This house stands as a testament to the enduring legacy and Anita’s commitment to future generations.
Boys’ Residence:
Bearing the name of the local Presbyterian Minister, Rev Speirs was the Council chairman from 1963 to 1977. This residence embodies the spiritual and community-oriented values of College.
With the convenience of on-campus living, boarders can seamlessly integrate early morning practices and evening rehearsals into their schedules, free from the constraints of commute times. This proximity allows our students to explore and excel in a wide array of pursuits, fostering well-rounded individuals prepared for the challenges of the global stage.
THOUGHTFUL LIVING ARRANGEMENTS
On-campus living provides a safe and secure environment as well as convenient access to study, recreational facilities and space to relax. Our boarding facilities are designed to cater to the evolving needs of students across different age groups.
Years 7-8:
• Dedicated common rooms for our youngest boarders, fostering a sense of belonging.
• House Parents dedicate their time to support the growth of our Year 7 and 8 boarders. With a focus upon the fundamentals, our House Parents ensure young boarders are welcomed, organised, supported and growing in all facets of College life.
• A Life Skills program sees the younger boarders actively learn lifelong skills that will set them up for success both at school and beyond.
“We are a big family. The older boarders keep an eye out for the younger students and take on leadership roles to make sure everyone feels included and supported.”
– Henry , Year 12
Years 9-11:
• Shared rooms and common spaces that encourage peer interaction and collaborative living.
• Each student has study facilities in their room.
• Many Year 11 students have single rooms to assist with focused study time.
Year 12:
Our oldest boarders have a separate wing designed to promote independence and collaborative learning in their final year.
• Individual rooms for personal space and focused study.
• A communal kitchen and lounge area for social interaction.
• Shared bathrooms between two students.
REFECTORY AND COMMON AREAS
The Dining Hall, known as the Refectory, is where students have all meals, including breakfast, dinners, afternoon tea and lunch/brunch on the weekends. It is also where they make their lunch to take to school. After dinner is cleared, the Refectory is used for ‘Prep’ which is an academic time for all students.
There is also a piano in the Refectory and many musicians use this outside of ‘Prep’ time.
The main Common Room is adjacent to the Refectory and it serves as the social space for boarders to mingle and relax. It is equipped with comfortable couches to watch movies on the inbuilt theatre system, a pool table and tennis table.
CO-CURRICULAR SPORT
Our boarding students benefit from access to the school and community facilities in close proximity.
• Mountain biking trails
• Onsite basketball and tennis courts
• Hamilton Indoor Leisure and Aquatic Centre (pool, squash, gym, basketball and table tennis)
• Lake Hamilton for rowing and running track
• Golf course across the road.
EQUESTRIAN
Onsite equestrian facilities for our passionate riders:
• Indoor Arena
• Outdoor Arena
• Agistment available
Horsemanship lessons and specialist instructors each week.
STAFF IN RESIDENCE
College provides an exceptional level of care for each and every student. Residences have dedicated Master / Mistress on Duty (MODs) who provide supervision and stay overnight in the residences.
With a diverse team of mentors, every student is able to receive individual care and the support to thrive in their new environment. The Director of Boarding lives on campus adjacent to the student residences. We also have teachers living onsite that cover Mathematics, Languages, Business Management and Geography.
In addition, we regularly have two GAP students living at the Boarding House.
Each morning and evening our College Nurse is available for the boarders, tending to their needs, making appropriate medical appointments and dispensing medicines, if required.
SAFETY AND SECURITY
Your child’s safety is our highest priority.
Onsite security personnel are supported by video surveillance of the grounds.
Campus buildings and gates are locked each evening, and all residences are alarmed.
Technology is stored in manditory overnight locker storage and wifi is switched off to ensure students have an uninterrupted sleep.
A WELCOMING COMMUNITY
When new students first arrive at College, extra attention is paid to ensuring they feel welcomed in what may be a new town or country for our boarders.
A variety of social programs help students settle in and make new friends both within their residence and with the other boarders.
Our boarders often form a tight-knit group within the wider student cohort at school.
Students are encouraged to keep in regular contact with their friends and family outside the College via video calls and email.
“Hamilton is a safe community, and this is felt at school and in the Boarding House. We walk to and from school, and this is a good time to mix with students in different year levels to get to know them.”
Charlotte , Year 10
BE HERE TO LEARN
College has an reputation for strong academic results and our boarders have a bigger advantage than most. With no commute, dedicated study time, and easy access to academic assistance our boarders have the opportunity to ‘live, learn, lead’ and achieve confident futures.
STUDY SUPERVISION AND SUPPORT
The ‘Academic Assistance’ program is held in the library from 3.45 – 5.30pm, Monday to Thursday. Senior teachers are rostered on and are available to provide individual support.
After dinner, boarders attend ‘Prep’. This is focused study and revision time, supervised by boarding staff and a teacher is in attendance to provide learning support.
Supervised study sessions differ depending on the year level, however, at a minimum boarders will complete an hour each evening.
VCE teachers hold small group tutorials at the Boarding House throughout the year to prepare for SACs and VCE exams.
Regular communication among students, teachers, and the Boarding House ensures academic, social, and emotional wellbeing is supported both inside and outside the classroom.
“Having the structured schedule makes it easy to fit sport and study into my day. The availability of the boarding bus to pick us up whenever we need it is really handy to keep us on time. The set dinner and study times helps to keep me on track with my school work.”
- Will , Year 12
FORMAL DINNERS
Each term a guest speaker is invited to attend the formal term dinner.
The traditional ‘Formal Dinner’ at College serves as an opportunity for intellectual and social growth, offering students a rare opportunity to engage with Old Collegians and College community members from various fields, whose life journey and professional insights can be inspiring for the young minds.
The formal atmosphere, with its emphasis on etiquette and professional attire (full school uniform including blazer and tie), serves as a practical lesson in social graces, preparing students for future endeavors in the professional world.
Ultimately, these formal dinners are part of the College’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals.
INFORMATION SESSIONS
At College, we offer a holistic education through our community information sessions.
Our MODs, working with community members, offer sessions carefully curated to broaden horizons and instill practical skills.
Students engage in hands-on learning, such as mastering car maintenance and road safety principles. The program extends to the culinary arts, where international cooking sessions celebrate cultural diversity and foster global understanding. Financial literacy takes shape through banking education, equipping our students with the knowledge to navigate the economic landscape confidently.
“I love boarding. I started in Year 7 and after living out of town, it felt amazing to have friends around all the time.”
– Poppy , Year 8
LIFE SKILLS PROGRAM
The Life Skills program is a unique addition to the boarding experience of our younger boarders. With the caring nature of our House Parents, they guide our Year 7 and 8 boarders through the Life Skills program to support their transition into boarding life.
Life Skills taught throughout the year include daily planning, routine, laundry, study, exam preparation, budgeting, healthy eating and planning meals etc. Learning these skills early sets the boarders up for independence and great success as they juggle school, co-curricular and social commitments.
BE HERE TO LEAD
BOARDING COMMITTEE
Members organise themed dinners that provide fun and foster community spirit.
The Boarding Committee has students from Years 7 to 12 and they ensure all students voices are heard.
MENTOR
Our mentoring program is a significant part of our pastoral care within the boarding community. Each senior student mentors a junior during their first year in the Boarding House to help establish them into their new environment, build relationships and give them confidence and security. The mentoring program has created an inclusive culture and the interactions build a strong sense of belonging and family.
SENIOR ON DUTY
In this position of trust and responsibility, our older boarders work in tandem with the MODs to encourage active participation within the boarding house community, support daily preparations and encourage health living.
COACH
Boarders are provided the opportunity to coach College teams in the field of their chosen sport. Learning the importance of leadership and imparting their expertise to younger peers.
This exchange of knowledge not only hones sporting skills but also instills the principles of dedication and teamwork whilst encouraging cross year level experiences.
STUDENT DRIVEN INITIATIVES
HOUSE CUP
Led by the Boarding Committee, friendly competition in netball, basketball, cricket and fancy dressdrives and motivates students.
RUN CLUB
Running as a group once a week for fitness and exercise. Several runners also participate in local fun run events and take bigger challenges such as the Port Fairy Marathon and Serra Terror.
SWIM CLUB
In term one, boarders swim laps in the lead up to House and local swimming carnivals.
Weekend Activities
Each term, several weekend activities are planned. Such as surfing in Port Fairy, shopping / football in Melbourne, hiking in Grampians and much more.
BOARDERS - WEEKDAY DAILY ROUTINE
6.50AM
Wake up, prepare for school
3.45PM
Mon -Thurs Academic Assistance in the Library
Wednesday - Street leave, or walk back to the Boarding House
4.00PM
Sign in with MOD at the Refectory and have some afternoon tea
FROM 7.00AM
Nutritious and healthy breakfast in the Refectory (closes 8am)
Make a packed school lunch
3.30PM
End of school day
8.00AM
Bag trailer departs for Senior School
Make bed, clean teeth, pack school bags
5.50PM
Assemble in the the Refectory for dinner
8.15AM
Room and uniform inspection
Walk to school (15 minutes)
8.20am - Boarding Houses is closed
6.00PM
Evening Meal
Late meals can be arrange prior for sporting events
9.00PM
Sunday to Thursday lights out Years 7 to 9
Friday to Saturday lights out Years 7 to 9 at 10pm
9:30PM
Outside doors locked
Houses must be quiet, Years 10 –12 lock up laptop, phone and any other IT devices
8:45PM
Years 7-9 electronic devices locked away
Supper is available on Wednesday evening
7.00PM
Prep for all
8pm Prep ends Years 7-8
8:30pm Prep ends Year 9
8:45pm Prep ends Year 10
10:00PM
Sunday to Thursday lights out Year 10
Friday to Saturday lights out Year 10 at 10.30pm
10:15PM
Sunday to Thursday lights out Years 11 and 12
Friday to Saturday lights out Years 11 and 12 at 10.30pm
SLEEP, NUTRITION, EXERCISE
To be the best version of yourself, we know that a positive focus on sleep, wellbeing, nutrition and the right amount of exercise is vital.
We enforce strict sleep times, which are staggered for age groups. This is because we know that sleep is the key to learning and wellbeing.
SAMPLE MENUS
MONDAY
Dinner
Build your own chicken or lamb souvlaki
Chocolate ripple cake
TUESDAY
Breakfast
Egg, bacon & cheese muffin
Dinner
Chicken Parma with shaved ham
Pavlova & fresh berries
WEDNESDAY
Breakfast
French toast, natural yoghurt & mixed berries
Dinner
Chicken tortellini / salami, Italian
vegetable & tomato penne
Seasonal fruit salad
THURSDAY
Butter chicken curry
Potato & bean curry
Birthday cake
FRIDAY
Chinese Banquet
Banana split
SATURDAY
Lunch
Quiche Lorraine, seasoned chips, Greek salad & Broccoli
Slaw
Dinner
Pizza night
SUNDAY
Brunch
Breakfast Tacos
Dinner
Shepherd’s pie
Jelly slice
We also work closely with our in-house chef and consult with a nutritionist to prepare a weekly menu for our growing, active young adults.
There is no shortage of exercise options available for boarders, through organised school or community sport, or by accessing the local facilities (gym,
MONDAY
Dinner
Lemon, garlic and parsley chicken drumsticks / Middleeastern pulled lamb Peaches & Jelly
TUESDAY
Breakfast
Scrambled eggs, bacon & hash browns
Dinner
BBQ Ice Cream
WEDNESDAY
Dinner
Chicken Parma with bacon Seasonal fruit salad
THURSDAY
Breakfast
Breakfast wraps
Dinner
Beef & potato curry
Tofu & vegetable Thai green curry
Chia pudding with strawberry coulis
FRIDAY
Chinese Banquet Ice-cream & toppings
SATURDAY
Lunch
Fish, chips & salad
Dinner
Pizza night
SUNDAY
Brunch
Breakfast Tacos
Dinner
Slow cooked brisket
Chocolate ganache tart
All evening meals served with seasonal vegetables and/or salad.
pool, running track, golf course etc) which are all located in close proximity to the boarding precinct.
“We have an amazing chef in the Boarding House. I love Josh’s chicken parma and theme nights are always great fun. The Mexican Fiesta dinner was a taste sensation!” – Annabel , Year 9
TRANSPORT
WEEKLY BUS
A weekly bus service is provided from Naracoorte (South Australia) to Hamilton (Victoria), departing SA on Sunday afternoon at 4pm and returning after school on Friday, making stops at Penola and Wando Vale.
An externally operated bus provides access to College from Dimboola, Horsham, Charam, Harrow and Balmoral on a weekly bus (dependent on seat availability).
This transportation offering allows students from Year 7 to Year 12 to access the College’s academic and co-curricular opportunities during the week while maintaining strong familial connections on the weekends.
In our ongoing efforts to serve the broader region, we are exploring the possibility of an additional service from Mt Gambier, subject to student demand. This potential expansion aligns with our mission to nurture locally so that students can excel globally.
DAILY BUS
Boarders can also catch the daily bus to spend time at home on weekends. College has buses travelling from Portland, Warrnambool, Port Fairy, and Mortlake directly to school.
Regional students also catch local Government buses, which requires a transfer at the Baimbridge College bus exchange, organised through reception.
TERM BUS
College operates an airport connection bus once a term to Melbourne airport on designated travel dates, further information can be provided to interested families.
SCHOLARSHIPS
A number of scholarships are available for candidates who fulfill the requirements for entry into College. The Hamilton and Alexandra College is an ambitious school that draws on our strong traditions to prepare students for confident futures.
College nurtures academic opportunity and encourages students of excellent character to make a contribution to the life of the school and beyond as future citizens. Our core business is education, so the pursuit of excellence underpins our pedagogy. College values are: optimism, compassion, gratitude, respect and resilience. These values in action encourage College students to:
• believe in themselves and the goodness of others
• value effort as well as reward
• show kindness to all
• give respect and seek to earn it
• engage broadly and wholeheartedly with the world
For opening and closing dates please visit our website.
TOWER SCHOLARSHIP
Years 4 -12
For all Tower Scholarships, families will be required to demonstrate that their present and likely future financial circumstances would not allow them to finance their children’s attendance at The Hamilton and Alexandra College. In assessing each application, weight is given to the range of a student’s achievements.
IVY SCHOLARSHIP
Years 4 - 12
Ivy Scholarships are awarded for meritorious achievement, a passion for continuous learning and strong character strengths. Current school reports, references and application information will be assessed and an interview will be held with the Principal and their delegates. A formal review in July and December of each year is conducted to ensure all our Scholarship holders maximise their opportunities at The Hamilton and Alexandra College.
ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIP
Years 5 -12
Academic Scholarships are awarded on the demonstrated performance in the examination administered by Edutest and supporting documentation e.g. school reports, external competition reports, NAPLAN results. All students who are short listed for an Academic Scholarship will be invited for an interview to discuss and explore their academic interests, their approach to learning and how they will contribute to the strong learning culture at College.
BOARDING SCHOLARSHIP
Years 7 -12
College has a long history of supporting regional and rural families to access an independent education. We understand that the tyranny of distance can limit access to quality education, and Ivy Scholarships are available for students who would like to join the Boarding House community. For all Bursaries, families will be required to demonstrate that their present and likely future financial circumstances would not allow them to finance their children’s attendance. The bursary will be tenable until the student has completed their secondary education.
BOARDING BURSARY
Years 7 - 8
Boarding offers an amazing array of opportunities and facilities that may not be available to children at home. The College Board acknowledges the important role that our boarding program plays across the whole school and has endorsed 100% boarding bursaries for any Year 7 child intent on boarding at College for six years. Furthermore, Year 8 boarders are entitled to receive a 100% bursary off their boarding fees if their family residence is more than 100km from Hamilton.
WHY BOARDING?
The decision to send your child to boarding school can be difficult. For parents who are struggling to decide, here are six reasons to consider making The Hamilton and Alexandra College your child’s home away from home:
BOARDING FOR PERSONAL GROWTH
At College, we believe in the transformation of boarding. This journey challenges students comfort zones, immersing them in a world of diverse experiences. From academic pursuits to pastoral care, our safe and secure boarding environment fosters resilience and adaptability.
NURTURING STRUCTURE AND INDEPENDENCE
Boarding life instills a sense of structure and routine, elements crucial for adolescent wellbeing, cultivating life skills - from personal organisation to self-reliance.
NETWORK OF DEVOTED MENTORS
Our boarding MODs and house parents, work to support and guide boarders. The dedicated staff, residing on or near campus, provide round-the-clock care and mentorship. Their commitment ensures that each boarder receives personalised attention and support. During evening study sessions, our teachers offer their expertise, further enriching the academic experience.
MASTERING TIME AND STUDY
Boarding life allows each student to find their individual rhythm. Boarders learn to manage their time effectively, balancing academic with cocurricular offerings. Their time management and study skills becomes the key of their success.
“My daughter started in Year 7. She hit the ground running and hasn’t stopped, always ready to try new things, from soccer to dancing, rowing, the school musical, basketball, and hockey. She loves the comradery and supportive environment in the Boarding House.”
– Parent , Year 8
ABUNDANCE OF CO-CURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIES
Residing at school opens a world of possibilities beyond the classroom. Our boarders enjoy access to sporting facilities, creative spaces, and academic resources.
This proximity allows for deeper engagement in before and afterschool activities, fostering wellrounded individuals who excel with confident futures.
Boarding presents opportunities that may be unavailable in one’s hometown. This exposure to new experiences broadens perspectives and enriches the educational journey, preparing our students to thrive in an ever-changing world.
“Our son has enjoyed casual boarding over his years at College, particularly during hockey season and to allow more study time ahead of exams. He is now boarding full time for his final year to reduce the amount of travel home to the farm, providing more breathing room for study and to enjoy his final year at College,”
– Parent , Year 12
ENROLMENT
We warmly invite you to arrange a personalised tour of the College or visit on one of our Open Days.
To arrange a tour at a time that suits you, please contact:
Susie Holcombe
Registrar
T +61 3 5572 1355
E admissions@hamiltoncollege.vic.edu.au
W www.hamiltoncollege.vic.edu.au
THE HAMILTON AND ALEXANDRA COLLEGE www.hamiltoncollege.vic.edu.au
Senior School 1 Chaucer Street, Hamilton Vic. 3300 | Myrniong Cnr Kent Rd and Macarthur Street, Hamilton Vic. 3300 +61 3 5572 1355 | admin@hamiltoncollege.vic.edu.au