February break has officially arrived at CDL, and it’s time to hit pause on school life! Whether you’re taking a trip or just chilling at home, this is the perfect moment to disconnect and recharge. Forget about exams, assignments, and that never-ending to-do list for a bit—it’s all about relaxing and having fun now.

Speaking of fun, we’ve got some awesome trips lined up, like our Iceland adventure and Ski Week! Whether you’re going to see the Northern Lights or shredding the slopes, we hope these trips are packed with epic moments and lots of laughter. Enjoy the break, make some great memories, and come back ready to take on the rest of the school year!

During the latest monthly assembly at our boarding school, Esther took the stage alongside a day student to present an inspiring initiative aimed at promoting sustainable fashion—Threads of Tomorrow. Their project encourages students to embrace second-hand clothing as a way to reduce waste and support eco-friendly practices. Through a well-crafted presentation, they highlighted the benefits of buying pre-loved items, emphasizing how it can contribute to a greener planet while still allowing students to express their individual style. The duo also shared tips on how to find great quality second-hand pieces and how this movement ties into larger global efforts toward sustainability.

The project not only raised awareness about environmental issues but also sparked conversations among the students about the importance of mindful consumption. Esther and her partner’s initiative was met with enthusiasm and curiosity, inspiring many to reconsider their clothing choices and explore new ways to shop more sustainably. As the school community embraces this eco-conscious effort, we can all look forward to a more sustainable future, one thread at a time.

Below are two pictures capturing Esther’s presentation and the energy of the event.

Best,

Portena team!

This weekend, our students took part in a range of exciting activities, making the most of their time together. Some challenged themselves with climbing, pushing past their limits and feeling proud of their achievements. Others enjoyed horse riding, learning new skills while bonding with the horses. Handball brought out everyone’s competitive side, with fast-paced games that were full of energy and teamwork.

For those looking to stay active in a different way, bodyshaping and Pilates sessions helped students build strength, improve flexibility, and relax after a busy week. It was a great mix of fun, fitness, and new experiences. Whether climbing high, playing hard, or focusing on well-being, everyone had an amazing time!

Best,

Portena team!

Happy Birthday, Karen! This year, her friends planned a beautiful surprise for her. When she walked into her room, she was greeted by the sight of her closest friends waiting for her, all gathered around a cake. The surprise left her completely emotional, and she couldn’t help but hug each of them, overwhelmed by their thoughtfulness.

It was such a special moment, filled with laughter and love. Karen felt incredibly grateful to have friends who put so much effort into making her feel so cherished. It wasn’t just the cake or the surprise. It was the love and care that made this birthday unforgettable 🩷

This past Sunday, our house had the honor of being represented by Sophia in the exciting ski race at La Tzumaz Resort. It was a day full of competition and fun, as kids from different houses gathered to compete on the slopes. Sophia gave it her all, showcasing impressive skill and determination as she raced through the course. Her performance was a true testament to the spirit of our house, and we couldn’t be more proud of her for representing us so well!

After the race, the day didn’t end there. All the participants had the chance to relax and enjoy the rest of the day at La Tzumaz. The resort was the perfect setting for everyone to unwind, explore the slopes, and enjoy the winter weather. A big thank you to Sophia for being such a fantastic representative and to everyone who made the day memorable. Here’s to many more moments like this, filled with teamwork, excitement, and plenty of fun!

Best,

Portena Team!

Tonight’s activity was part of our Wellbeing Pillar 3: Building Positive Relationships. Each of the girls wrote down a question on a large poster: “What are the things you love about yourself but sometimes forget to appreciate?” It was a moment of self-reflection, encouraging everyone to think about the qualities they love in themselves, but often overlook. This activity was not only about boosting self-esteem but also about strengthening the positive relationships we build with ourselves and each other in this house.

The girls took their time to write down their answers, sharing thoughtful and personal reflections. It was amazing to see each one recognize their unique strengths and qualities. By the end of the activity, the girls left feeling more confident, and the experience brought us closer together as a group. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of self-love, something we value deeply as part of our wellbeing pillar, and a great way to continue building positive, supportive relationships within our community.

Best,

Portena team!

Our recent house meeting at the boarding house went really well. We took the time to congratulate the girls on their great behavior and the positive atmosphere they’ve been creating. It’s not always easy living together in a shared space, but the girls have been doing a fantastic job of being respectful and supportive of each other. It was nice to recognize all their efforts and the kindness they show each day.

As always, we finished the meeting with some cake and bowls of cereal with chocolate. It’s become a fun tradition to enjoy a treat after the meeting, and it’s a great way to end on a high note. Everyone left feeling good, and it was a nice way to connect and celebrate the positive vibe in our house.

Best,

Portena team!

This past weekend, while our senior students were away skiing in the Swiss Alps (as mentioned in yesterday’s post), the students in grades 8, 9, and 10 stayed at the boarding house and had a great time of their own. We started the weekend with a fun horse riding trip. Whether you were a beginner or more experienced, it was a fantastic opportunity to ride through the fields and enjoy the outdoors. Afterward, we spent some time with the horses, learning how to take care of them and even giving them a few treats.

In the afternoon, we headed to the ice skating rink for some fun on the ice. Whether we were gliding around or trying to stay upright, everyone had a blast. There were plenty of laughs, races, and even a few falls, but it was all part of the fun. We wrapped up the day with hot chocolate, sharing our favorite moments from the day. It was a weekend full of great memories and a perfect way for grades 8, 9, and 10 to enjoy time together while the seniors were away on their mountain trip.

Best,

Portena team!

This past weekend, our senior students (grades 11 and 12) had the chance to head back to Crans-Montana for the second ski trip of the season. With the stunning Swiss Alps as their backdrop, they spent the weekend skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and even sliding down snowy hills in inflatable tubes. It was a perfect opportunity to enjoy the thrill of winter sports, with everyone embracing the chance to try something new or just unwind on the slopes. Whether on skis or snowboards, the snow-filled weekend gave them a refreshing break from the classroom.

But beyond the activities, these weekends are an important moment for the seniors to bond and strengthen their sense of community. As they approach their final years before university, these shared experiences create lasting memories and friendships. It’s a chance to connect with classmates in a fun, relaxed environment, and reflect on how far they’ve come in their time together. The weekend in Crans-Montana was a reminder of the importance of these moments as they prepare to take the next step in their journeys.

Best,

Portena team!