Karen’s love for Ballantynes was no secret. Every new group of Year 9 boys was inducted into the fine art of shopping for their mothers, sisters, and girlfriends. Her connections, even with personal stylists, ensured that no boy left her guidance without learning the value of thoughtfulness and care. Karen’s routines and bargain- hunting prowess were legendary. She could stretch a dollar and make it seem like magic, always eager to share her finds and enrich the lives of those around her. Her eye for detail and ability to maintain order in a bustling boarding House was nothing short of miraculous. Above all, Karen was a connector. She loved people, cherished their stories, and celebrated their successes. She stayed in touch with so many of her Old Boys, welcoming them back to share their journeys with the next generation. Her legacy lives on in the lives she shaped and the love she spread. Karen, you were wise, kind, and endlessly giving. You leave behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unforgettable cakes. We will miss you deeply, but your spirit will forever
flourish in future endeavours. I have loved every moment of the last five years, and I will treasure this time forever. As we wrap up 2024, I want to thank all the Flower’s House staff. Each one puts so much time and effort into ensuring us boys are well looked after, encouraged, and happy while continually progressing through our time at College. First, thank you to the domestic staff, Anne, Kathleen, and Colleen. You always ensure that every boy has clean clothes and that the House is tidy. I know all the boys appreciate you. Second, thank you to our mentors, Ms Kilpatrick, Mr Dixon, and Dr Aitken. You always bring a vibrant smile to the House and ensure that the boys are engaged in mentor time while holding your respective students to a high standard. Finally, thank you to Tom Hodges. You have been the best Deputy Head of House and done so much for everyone this year. Thank to Ms Monique Ellis-Martin. You stepped into the Housemaster role seamlessly in the middle of this year, and I do not doubt that you will continue to foster a great community. Mr Campbell, you have been a rock for each boy. You are such an understanding and genuine man, and we have been so lucky to have you for the last couple of terms. And tutors, Nathan and Alex, you guys have constantly offered to help us even after a long day at work. Even when you are tired, you always put the boys before yourselves. Thank you. However, there is one more person that I have not thanked yet, that deserves the world – Karen. This year, we lost our beloved matron, Karen Adams. Karen was the most spectacular lady I have ever met in my life; her service to Flower’s House will never be forgotten, and she has shaped the type of men that each of us boys is today. Every boy has been a pleasure to work with this year. It has been great seeing all the boys within our community flourish and develop in their chosen area. Overall, Flower’s House has had another great year, and I have no doubt it will continue to flourish.
and always delicious. She celebrated each Year 9 boy with a themed birthday cake, crafted with care and shared with joy. These moments brought warmth to the House and made everyone feel uniquely valued. Karen was the heart and soul of Flower’s House. While others held official titles, it was Karen who truly ran the House. She managed the staff, trained the boys, and set high standards for everyone. Her ability to anticipate every need and organise every event was unmatched. From quiz nights to dumpling-making
marathons – where she led the charge on 600 dumplings – Karen brought people together through food, laughter, and community. Her sayings became House lore: “If a job’s worth doing, it’s worth doing well”, and “No phones, boys – this is the art of conversation”. Through her high expectations, she instilled independence, resilience, and respect in the boys. By the time they reached their senior years, they recognised her strictness as love and her lessons as tools for life.
remain in our hearts. Rest in peace, Karen.
From Head of House Jake Leck Every member of Flower’s House has laughed, faced challenges, and excelled with their brothers around them this year, and I could not be prouder of the culture that has been created in the House. We have had many acknowledgeable achievements as a House, including winning athletics, cross-country, the House Spirit Award, junior debating, and the House Cup. However, it is not these trophies and titles that make Flower’s such a unique House; it is that when a team plays, the whole House has its support, no matter the age group or the sport. This year, we have had the whole House pack out
a gym for House basketball or futsal and a classroom for House chess or House debating. All year groups have collaborated within the House this year, and there have been many leadership opportunities for the younger year groups to show their leadership skills. Year 13s, you boys have been fantastic, and it is an honour to call you ‘my brothers’. Every one of us brings something unique to the table, and we blend to make one great group. You all have been so supportive. It has been wonderful to see you grow, excel, and achieve greatness in your chosen area, and I have no doubt you will continue to
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Christ’s College Canterbury
Register 2024 Pastoral Care
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