From Champs des Bois to Montreux: Christmas Adventure!

What a weekend we’ve had! On Saturday morning, the kids jumped into their usual activities—tennis, horseback riding, and even some cooking. Everyone had a great time getting active and creative to start the day.

In the afternoon, Mana and Kimi headed off to Geneva with Terray to do some shopping for gifts (Secret Santa is just around the corner). Meanwhile, back at the house, we all settled in for a movie night that had us laughing nonstop. It was the perfect way to end a fun and relaxed Saturday.

Sunday was definitely the highlight of the weekend! We took a trip to the Montreux Christmas Market, where the festive atmosphere put everyone in the holiday spirit. The twinkling lights, the smell of warm treats, and the cheerful music made it such a magical day. One of the most exciting parts was discovering a collection of beautiful stones, which Chika absolutely loved!

Unfortunately, poor Mana had to stay home because he wasn’t feeling well, but we made sure to bring back plenty of stories (and maybe a little Christmas cheer) to share with him. After a long day of exploring, we returned to the house for a cozy dinner and some much-needed rest.

The Champs des Bois team 🏡

Winter Performances

Dear all,

This has been an eventful yet musical week. The boys in the house have been showcasing their musical talents by perfoming their talents live. Chika and Donny had their Primary Winter Concert, while Jin, Kimi, Nuttakit and Xingyu each had their G7 Keyboard Recitals.

It was a pleasure to attend these events – and thank you to everyone involved  for making them happen – it is great to see the artistic side of these boys shine through.

All the best,

The Champs-des-Bois Team 🏠

Norwegian Night at Collège du Léman

Dear all,

Tonight, we took a trip to Norway through its delicious cuisine! The cooking team served Salmon, Gravlax, Kotterbüllar (Norwegian meatballs), and cranberry sauce. Each dish was simple yet packed with fresh, Nordic flavors.

Did you know Norway is home to the stunning fjords and has one of the happiest populations in the world? It’s also the land of the midnight sun, where some places experience 24 hours of daylight in summer!

Veldig godt!

The Champs des Bois team 🏡

Champs des Bois: Stronger, Together 💪🏡 – November Fitness Challenge

Dear all,

What a month it’s been here at Champs des Bois! From start to finish, everyone brought so much energy and positivity to the November Fitness Challenge. It’s been amazing to see you all pushing yourselves, cheering each other on, and having fun along the way.

A big shoutout to Mana and Kimi, who really led the way and encouraged everyone to get involved. You two have been such incredible motivators, and we couldn’t have done it without you! 🙌

And let’s talk about Jin – the champion of the month! Winning the most challenges is no small feat. Your hard work and focus were inspiring, and we’re all so proud of you. 🏆

But honestly, the best part of this whole month was seeing how almost everyone joined in. Whether it was smashing a challenge, learning something new, or just having fun as a team, you all made this such a special experience.

Thank you for giving your best and showing that Champs des Bois isn’t just a boarding house – it’s a family. ❤️ You’ve made this challenge unforgettable, and I couldn’t be prouder of all of you.

The Champs-des-Bois team 🏠

Weekend Unplugged

Dear all,

It has been another busy weekend in the house. Full of games, activities, trips into town and movie night.

Paul-David took part in a football competition with CDL, going on to win seven games and coming second overall – good man Paul-David!

Mana and Kimi helped out on Saturday with the Samedi du Partage; a charity event supporting those in need. Stationed at store entrances, they encouraged people to donate items. Well done to the boys and everyone who took part.

Lastly, but by no means least, we are getting into the Christmas Spirit in the House – we have the House kitted out and the meery feelings are already taking over!

Wishing you all a pleasant week ahead,

The Champs-des-Bois team 🏠

 

Excellence in Boarding

Dear all,

Tonight we had the joy of attending the CDL Boarding Awards Ceremony – where the Champs-des-Bois boys came out en force.

So, we would like to give a massive congratulations to :

  • To Mana – who won the Boarding Life Award.
  • To Nuttakit – who won the Activities Award.
  • To Mana, Nuttakit, Jin and Paul-David – who all won the Academic Awards, in their respecitve streams.
  • To Kimi who received a Honourable Mention in the Academic Award.

The pride we feel as a House is palpable, we would like to congratulate these lads on doing so well & in doing themsleves proud.

All the best,

The Champs-Des-Bois Team 🏠

Siiuuu – A Taste of Portugal!

Dear all,

Tonight, we set sail on a culinary journey to Portugal! The cooking team treated us to Bread with chorizo, Shrimp rissoles, Cod squabs, Portuguese roast chicken with potatoes, and, of course, Pastel de Nata for dessert.

Did you know Portugal is home to the world’s oldest bookstore, Livraria Bertrand, which has been around since 1732? It’s also the birthplace of fado, soulful music perfect for eating just one more pastel (or two).

Muito bom!

The Champs des Bois team 🏡

 

 

Chocolate, horses, parties and so much fun!

Dear all,

What a weekend we’ve had!

On Saturday, we kicked things off with some amazing activities in the morning, followed by a very special celebration in the afternoon. It was Paul David’s birthday, and we marked the occasion with delicious cake and some wonderful guests who joined us at the house. Such a great day!

Sunday started off on a relaxed note, with the brunch to fuel up for the incoming adventure. We then visited the famous Cailler Chocolate Factory, where the kids got a fascinating lesson on the history of chocolate and its origins in Switzerland. Of course, the highlight was sampling the chocolate—and buying plenty more to take home to share with family and friends!

The Champs-des-Bois team 🏡

Celebrating Children’s Day

Dear all,

Today, November 20th, we celebrate Children’s Day, a moment to recognise and advocate for the rights, well-being, and potential of every child. This day commemorates the adoption of the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of the Child and the Convention on the Rights of the Child, reminding us of the vital role we play in nurturing and empowering the young people in our care.
For boarders, and especially the younger community of students at CDL, it’s a reminder that their school is not just a place of learning but a home where they are cared for and encouraged. It offers a chance to create cherished memories and foster a sense of belonging. Celebrating this day highlights the importance of making children feel valued, appreciated, and supported. Children’s Day inspires us to honour their potential and happiness.
We were able to mark the occasion, in collaboration with Villa Terray, in playing some Kahoot games in a joint house evening activity. Thank you to Ms. Rym, Mrs. Sophie and all the Terray girls for coming over – it was great fun! 😊
The Champs-des-Bois team 🏡

Island Flavors: A Filipino Feast

Dear all,

Tonight, we enjoyed the delicious flavors of the Philippines! The cooking team prepared Chicken Adobo, Tortang Talong, Kililaw Tanigue, and Bubble Tea for dessert.

Did you know the Philippines has 7,641 islands? It’s also home to the world’s smallest volcano, Taal Volcano, which sits on an island within a lake!

It was sarap!

The Champs des Bois team 🏡