The inspiration for holding our Mother and Daughter High Tea is simple; to give thanks, pay tribute, and spend some quality time with the mums, grandmas, sisters, aunties and other special women in our girls’ lives. This event is always a sell-out, with the venue changing four times in the last four years to accommodate an increasing number of guests! This year, the afternoon of fine company and refreshments took place in the Tasman Room at Alexandra Park Convention Centre

Principal, Ms Juliet Small welcomed the girls and their family members to the occasion by sharing the story of a mother, who when asked her occupation gave the following answer. ‘I am Research Associate in the field of Child Development and Human Relations. I have a continuing programme of research, (what mother doesn’t), in the laboratory and in the field, (normally I would have said indoors and out). I’m working for my Masters (the whole darned family), and already have four credits (all daughters). Of course, the job is one of the most demanding in the humanities, (any mother care to disagree?) and I often work 14 hours a day, (24 is more like it). But the job is more challenging than most run-of-the-mill careers and the rewards are more of satisfaction rather than just money.’

Deputy Head Girl, Nieve Campbell read a poem which summed up the occasion perfectly, starting with these words:

‘Thank you mother for being the special person that you are,
Thank you for your mother's love that seems to stretch so far,
Thank you for always being there, for the way that you care,
Thank you for the true and special understanding that we share.’

Head Girl, J’adore Harris-Tavita then said grace before afternoon tea was served.

Each girl found a 3D puzzle of a brightly coloured butterfly to keep her busy and as they chatted and laughed the time away, the bonding experience between mothers and daughters, and girls and their friends was strengthened. A photo booth was also set up for the afternoon, to take portrait photos that will be made available to the families.

As this event continues to grow, so does the amount of work required to put it together. We thank the many parents who contributed and in particular the organising committee of Dee Wakelin, Melissa Burnett and Matthew Gillard. The pampering didn’t end when the guests went home either. Special thanks goes to main sponsor, Anthony Gadson, uncle of Year 5 student, Kate Green, who generously donated a range of 300 Essano skincare products for the guests to take with them.  

Thank you also to the following sponsors and donors who supported the event:
Anthony Gadsdon; I Do Photography; Makeup by Abbie Griffiths; Forme Remuera; 101 Fitness; Essano; Penguin Random Books; The Baytree of Remuera; Alexandra Park Convention Centre; Belinda Coles Photography; Saint Kentigern Old Collegians Association; Cuthbert Interiors; Gillard Family; Dhani Family; Ray Family.

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