26 June 2025
A House that’s young, bold and unmistakably green
Oats Head of House, Ms Emily Davis, shared the following reflection: “Named after Mr William Oats, a former Headmaster of King's College, Oats is the youngest House, but we are no longer in our teens—now in our 20s. We are also probably the brightest House, with our vibrant lime green, a colour we embrace as it captures our youthful energy and shining House spirit.
Oats is a family within the broader Pembroke community. In a large school, it is great to have a home base, a place where we come together to connect and support each other. Being part of the Oats family continues into the senior years and beyond. Even though they have spread their wings a bit further from Middle School, we all enjoy catching up with our senior Oatsians and participating in various activities together. And for the loyal Oats staff, it is particularly lovely when our paths cross with our Old Scholars.
We are a diverse group, with a range of backgrounds, interests and perspectives, but we are united by our lime green spirit and relish our time together. Every friendly greeting, warm smile, interesting conversation and funny moment brightens my day, and it is a great privilege to be able to work with, support and guide the Oatsians in their journey at Pembroke.”
The stunning Home Group banner created by Oats' Year 8 students
Goats, groups and genuine connections
One of the many ways in which the Oats family strengthens connections, is through ‘Goat Groups’, each consisting of members from Years 7, 8, 9 and 10. This enables Oatsians to get to know each other better, to work together on challenges such as building a house of cards, scavenger hunts and paper plane competitions, and allows the older students to lead and play a mentoring role.
Of course, each Home Group has their own traditions as well, guided by the incredible team of Oats Home Group Teachers. The Year 7s enjoy sharing stories through food in ‘Cultural Crunch’, while the Year 9s donate a gold coin for each ‘Cake Tute’ to raise money to purchase an Oxfam goat (or even cow). The Year 8s created a spectacular Home Group banner this year, with each stitching their own name to form a colourful mural to adorn the wall of their Home Group.
And in true Oats style, the fun always has purpose: from fundraising for Catherine House, to Movember moustache-cookie sales, to cooking meals for people in need at Food on the Table—Oats walks the talk when it comes to community values.
Oats students fundraising for Catherine House
What makes Oats special? Let the students tell you.
Oscar (8 Oats): “If I had to describe Oats in three words? Unique, goated, spirited. Or, as Ms Davis would emphatically say—"Lime. Green. Legends”.”
Noah (8 Oats): “I chose Oats because of how spirited it felt—even before I joined. I wanted a House that was exciting and would challenge me. I don’t regret a single thing.”
Evie (10 Oats): “Oats is inclusive, kind, and diverse. We really value everyone’s different personalities and always aim to be welcoming and wholehearted in everything we do.”
Alex (10 Oats): “If you’re new, don’t be nervous—Oats is full of kind, supportive students and staff. Get involved in everything. Every event is a chance to have fun and make lifelong friends.”
And if you’re wondering what kind of celestial body could possibly match the energy of Oats? The answer is volcanic: Io, one of Mars’ moons—brilliant, eruptive and unforgettable.
House camps are a firm favourite for Oat House students and staff alike!
Leading with spirit and purpose
At the heart of Oats’ success is its leadership culture. Students, particularly Year 10s, step up each year to model integrity, humility and respect. Regardless of their backgrounds, strengths, or challenges, they show up for one another and grow together as a team.
Assistant Head of House Tara Manning reflects: “What I value most are the relationships that develop between students and staff. Watching our students step up, lead with quiet confidence, and face challenges head-on—with only gentle guidance—has been one of the most rewarding aspects of being part of this community.”
“Together, we’ve built a House culture that says: we may be young, but we are mighty. We don’t back down from challenges. We stand together. And we will continue to grow leaders who are resilient, respectful, and ready to make a difference—just as so many Oats students have done in the Senior School and the wider community.”
Some of Tara’s fondest memories come from House camps and activities: “Outside the classroom, surrounded by just our House community, we witness incredible moments of leadership, courage and compassion. Whether facing down bad weather, snakes, sore legs on long bushwalks, or the challenges of pitching tents and cooking together, Oats students rise to the occasion—always with determination and heart.”
Whether it’s cooking in the wild, or filling every lane in the Swimming Carnival, Oatsians take every opportunity to show just how strong their spirit is.
Oatsians in full voice at the House Swimming Carnival
Moments of unity, creativity and victory
Oats is about more than individual achievements—it’s about collective magic. A highlight each year is House Music, where the entire House unites to perform a whole-House song. Last year, a group of talented Middle School Oatsians even formed a House ensemble led by Year 7 student Oscar, performing a piece he arranged himself.
And yes—there’s also a little glory: a Swimming Carnival hat trick, three years running. But as Ms Manning says, it’s not about the podium. It’s about showing up for one another.
The legacy of lime green
In just two decades, Oats House has grown into a vibrant, values-led community known for its inclusivity, creativity and deep sense of identity. As the years roll on, one thing is certain: Oats will continue to grow leaders who are not just strong in spirit, but kind in heart.
Because in Oats, it’s not just about being a student.
It’s about being a Lime Green Legend.
Go Oats!
