Brunch at College du Leman: A Tasty Tradition

At College du Leman, brunch is more than just a meal; it’s a vibrant social tradition. Our diverse selection includes savory options like scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and roasted vegetables, alongside sweet treats such as waffles, pancakes, and freshly baked pastries. A variety of drinks, from freshly brewed coffee to smoothies, ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The concept of brunch dates back to 19th-century England, where Guy Beringer coined the term in 1895. He envisioned a more relaxed meal combining breakfast and lunch, ideal for a leisurely gathering. By the 1930s, brunch became popular in the U.S. and has since become a global tradition.

Brunch at College du Leman brings students together, creating moments of connection and celebrating cultural diversity. It’s a time to relax, enjoy delicious food, and build friendships—making it a cherished part of life on campus.

House Olympus Valentine’s Day Recap

Yesterday, love, friendship, and appreciation filled House Olympus as we celebrated Valentine’s Day! Students secretly sent flowers to friends and loved ones, while the beautifully decorated cantine set the perfect festive atmosphere.

Why Do We Celebrate Valentine’s Day?

Valentine’s Day traces back to Saint Valentine, a Roman priest who secretly married couples against imperial orders. It also has roots in Lupercalia, an ancient festival of love and fertility. Over time, it evolved into a global tradition of expressing affection through gifts, notes, and kind gestures.

Valentine’s isn’t just about romance—it’s about gratitude and connection. At House Olympus, we celebrate the friendships and bonds that make our community strong. Let’s carry that spirit forward every day!

Happy (belated) Valentine’s Day, House Olympus! ❤️⚡

Olympus Boarding House International Dinner Night: A Celebration of Culture

Food has always been more than just fuel—it’s a way to connect, share, and celebrate who we are. At Olympus Boarding House, students recently came together for an International Dinner Night, a feast that showcased the diverse cultures within our community.

One of the highlights of the evening was the delicious Mexican spread. More than just tacos, the menu featured rich, flavourful dishes, a complex sauce with a deep history.

This night was about more than good food—it was about sharing traditions and strengthening bonds, reminding everyone of the power of culture and community.

Christian played DJ for the house, showcasing Mexican artists like Vicente Fernández and Peso Pluma.

The Olympus International Dinner Night wasn’t just a feast; it was a celebration of identity and togetherness. With full plates and happy hearts, students left with a deeper appreciation for their peers and the stories behind each dish.

 

 

Brilliant Displays of Leadership and Learning in Olympus House

Olympus House recently came together for an engaging and insightful session focused on self-acceptance and self-care. Our house representatives, Chris and Sultan, led thought-provoking discussions on these important topics, sparking meaningful conversations among our members.

Chris delved into the concept of “what fills your empty cup”—encouraging everyone to reflect on the activities and habits that help us recharge when we’re feeling stressed or tired. From exercise and hobbies to simply spending time with loved ones, the session was a great reminder of the importance of prioritizing our well-being.

Following the discussions, we amped up the energy with some friendly house competition games. One of the highlights was “Catch the Ball in the Cup,” where our house members put their skills to the test and competed for prizes. The enthusiasm and camaraderie on display truly embodied the spirit of Olympus House!

A massive well done to Chris and Sultan for stepping up and confidently presenting in front of the house. Their leadership and dedication to fostering important conversations were inspiring to us all. It was fantastic to see everyone engaged, learning, and having fun together.

Here’s to more enriching sessions and memorable moments in Olympus House!

Olympus Boys Take on the Slopes at La Tzoumaz

This past Sunday, House Olympus was proudly represented at an exhilarating ski day at La Tzoumaz Resort. Our boys hit the slopes with energy and enthusiasm, carving through the snow in a true display of skill and confidence. From sharp turns to high-speed descents, they embraced the challenge, proving that the Olympus spirit is just as strong on the mountains as it is in the classroom.

But the day wasn’t just about skiing—it was also about camaraderie. After an action-packed morning on the slopes, the team took full advantage of the beautiful resort, soaking in the crisp alpine air and making the most of a well-earned day of winter fun. Whether tackling new trails or simply enjoying the breathtaking views, it was an experience to remember.

A huge shoutout to our Olympus boys for their enthusiasm and for representing our house with pride. Here’s to more adventures, more challenges, and more unforgettable moments on and off the slopes!

Best,
The Olympus Team

Welcome to Our New Boarders at Olympus House

Olympus House is delighted to extend a warm welcome to our newest boarders! After two weeks of settling in, we’re thrilled to introduce four incredible students who have joined our community.

From Brazil, we welcome Gabriel, Mateus, and Lorenzzo. Their energy and enthusiasm have already made a positive impact, and we’re excited to see them thrive in their new home. Joining them is Victor from China, whose presence adds even more diversity and cultural richness to our boarding house.

Adjusting to a new environment is never easy, but these lads have embraced the challenge with open hearts and minds. We are confident that they will continue to build lasting friendships and create wonderful memories here at Olympus House.

Once again, a huge welcome to Gabriel, Mateus, Lorenzzo, and Victor—we are so happy to have you with us!

Crans-Montana Trip!

This past weekend, students from Collège du Léman embarked on an adventurous weekend trip to the stunning Crans-Montana ski resort. Staying at the charming Parc Hotel, the trip was filled with camaraderie, laughter, and plenty of outdoor fun. Here’s a look back at our unforgettable journey to the Swiss Alps.

Friday Evening: Settling In The weekend began with a delightful dinner at the hotel, where students had the chance to unwind and settle into their cozy accommodations. With a bit of free time afterward, it was the perfect way to ease into the weekend’s activities and set the tone for an exciting adventure ahead.

Saturday: Skiing the Majestic Slopes Bright and early on Saturday, we headed to the Crans-Montana ski resort, ready to conquer the slopes. With its altitude ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 meters, the resort offers 140 kilometers of south-facing pistes that cater to all skill levels. Students were divided into four groups to accommodate their skiing abilities—ranging from beginners (levels 1 and 2) to advanced skiers (levels 3 and 4). Whether tackling gentle slopes or racing down challenging runs, everyone had a chance to enjoy the crisp mountain air and the thrill of skiing.

At lunchtime, we gathered at a mountaintop restaurant to refuel. Not only was the meal delicious, but the panoramic views were absolutely breath-taking, stretching from the Plaine Morte Glacier to the Rhône Valley. From the Dufourspitze to Mont Blanc and even the Matterhorn, the vista showcased a dazzling array of Alpine peaks. Afterward, we skied back down to the resort, where we took some much-needed rest.

Saturday Night: Games and Prizes The fun continued in the evening with a lively board game night. Students played Connect 4, Jenga, and Rummikub, testing their wits and strategy against one another. To top it all off, we hosted an exhilarating bingo night, complete with exciting prizes. The laughter and cheers filled the room, creating lasting memories for everyone involved.

Sunday: Sledding and Farewell Runs On our final day, we ascended the mountain once more for a mix of activities. While some students chose to ski again, others embraced the thrill of sledding—launching each other down snowy hills with pure delight. It was a perfect way to wrap up our Alpine adventure.

As the weekend came to a close, we packed up our gear and boarded the bus back to campus. Exhausted yet exhilarated, most of us couldn’t resist taking a nap on the way home. The weekend was a resounding success, thanks to the incredible behaviour and enthusiasm of our students.

Fun Facts About Crans-Montana

  • The Crans-Montana region enjoys an average of over 2,000 hours of sunshine annually, making it one of the sunniest spots in Switzerland.
  • The Plaine Morte Glacier, located at an altitude of 3,000 meters, is a natural marvel and a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
  • Crans-Montana isn’t just about skiing—it’s also famous for its golf courses, hosting prestigious tournaments like the Omega European Masters.

Thank You! A special thank you goes out to the Camp Department for organizing this incredible trip. Your efforts ensured a seamless and enjoyable experience for all. And of course, thanks to our amazing students for their enthusiasm and good spirits throughout the weekend. Here’s to more adventures in the future!

 

A Festive Farewell: Wrapping Up the Year with the Olympians

Last night, the Olympians came together for their final house meeting of the term before heading home for the Christmas and New Year holidays. The evening, thoughtfully organized by our senior house parent, Mr. Gordon, provided a perfect blend of fun, reflection, and camaraderie.

Using the interactive voting platform, Mentimeter, the boys participated in a lighthearted activity where they cast votes on playful questions like, “Who is most likely to become president?” The room was filled with laughter and good-natured debate as results were revealed. To keep spirits high, a spread of snacks—popcorn, biscuits, and crisps—was available for everyone to enjoy.

As the days grow darker and the pace of the academic calendar slows, the Olympians are ready for a well-deserved break. Reflecting on the year, it’s clear that 2023 has been packed with unforgettable moments and opportunities to grow as a community.

From the excitement of trips to Lucerne, Disneyland, and the Montreux Christmas Market, to cultural highlights like Geneva’s L’Escalade Festival and the Europark trip, the calendar has been nothing short of action-packed. On campus, the boys carved pumpkins for Halloween, explored their competitive side during the Boarding Awards, and joined in enriching activities like the ever-popular Climbing Club.

As we close this chapter and look forward to the festive season, we’re reminded of the importance of coming together, celebrating achievements, and cherishing the bonds formed throughout the year. Wishing all our Olympians and their families a joyful holiday season and a Happy New Year!

Here’s to a restorative break and an exciting 2024 ahead. 🎄✨

Gratitude and Gatherings: The Week of Thanksgiving

This past weekend was lively and engaging for Olympus House, as the boys threw themselves into a variety of activities that showcased both their competitive spirit and their eagerness to connect with one another. The House Competition League continues to spark excitement, with pool and table football at the forefront. The players battled fiercely for the top positions, but beyond the competition, it was the camaraderie and shared moments of fun that stood out. These games have become a cornerstone of bonding in the house, bringing everyone closer together.

For those seeking a physical challenge, the boxing club at the local sports center in Versoix offered a great outlet. Students embraced the opportunity to hone their fitness and discipline, with regular participants showing growing confidence and skill. It’s been fantastic to see such enthusiasm for an activity that pushes both physical and mental boundaries.

Looking ahead, this week we have a Portuguese Dinner Night, an event that promises to transport us to the vibrant culture and cuisine of Portugal. These international dinners are a highlight of the house calendar, offering a chance to explore new tastes, learn about different cultures, and celebrate the diversity within our community.

Even more importantly, this week marks our Thanksgiving celebration. While Thanksgiving has its roots in American history, the spirit of the holiday resonates universally. It’s a time to pause and reflect on the things we often take for granted—our friendships, opportunities, and shared experiences. Gratitude reminds us of the interconnectedness of our lives and the value of expressing appreciation for what we have and who we share it with.

As the week unfolds, we look forward to these celebrations, knowing they bring us closer as a house and as individuals. Thanksgiving, in particular, encourages us to step back and recognize the small, everyday blessings that make Olympus House a true home away from home.

 

 

Happy Halloween to everyone at Olympus House!

We’re thrilled to welcome the boys back to Olympus for the winter term! Their return coincides with the enchanting spooky season of Halloween, and our house is bursting with festive spirit, adorned with spooky decorations that set the perfect atmosphere for this time of year.
This week, we warmly welcomed three new members to the Olympus family. They are settling in beautifully, and we’re excited to see them thrive in our vibrant community. As part of our welcome festivities, we enjoyed an Indian-themed dinner on Wednesday, celebrating the rich and diverse cuisine of India. Did you know that India boasts 22 national languages and an astounding 19,500 spoken languages?
On Thursday, the Halloween spirit took over our dining hall as we indulged in a themed lunch and dinner, with students and staff donning creative costumes to join in the festivities. The excitement didn’t stop there! Olympus House is thrilled to open its doors to trick-or-treaters, creating a fun and festive atmosphere for all.
A highlight of the week was our pumpkin carving competition, where the lads went above and beyond to showcase their creativity. The designs were impressive, and we can’t wait to announce the winners!
As we look ahead, this weekend promises to be filled with adventure and fun. From haunted house outings to Halloween games, the boys are sure to create lasting memories together. Stay tuned for more updates from Olympus House as we celebrate the joys of the season and continue to foster friendships and community spirit!