Message from Sarah Nikkel, Director of Advancement
For as long as I can remember, I have loved back-to-school season. To quote Meg Ryan’s character in Nora Ephron’s 1998 romcom You’ve Got Mail, “It makes me wanna buy school supplies.” I particularly enjoyed back-to-school this year, as it coincided with my arrival at Crofton House School. It feels special to share this experience with new students, families, and colleagues.
On the other end of the spectrum, I’m excited to spend time with members of the Crofton House alumnae community to learn about what CHS means to you. I look forward to listening to your stories, and I encourage you to share your thoughts about how Advancement can support the alumnae experience.
I hope to meet as many of you as possible in the months ahead. Until then, thank you for the many ways that Crofton House alumnae support the School and one another.
For those who haven’t seen it, Ena Harrop, Head of School, addressed the community at the Whole School Opening Assembly to start the school year. You can view the recording online.
Summer Reading, Fall Jamming
The CHS Community Book Club was the perfect way to start the 2025-2026 school year, with plenty of Canadian reads shared and swapped between alumnae and parents alike.
As the days turned cooler, alumnae also gathered on Thursday, September 11, for the first of three fun jam-making sessions—getting a delicious head start on preparations for the Crofton House Winter Bazaar later this fall. The next jamming sessions are on October 2 and October 23, 2025. Sign up!
A New Chapter for the Horse Tree
The iconic Horse Tree, a beloved part of our campus for generations, has started a new chapter of its life in The Woods. Despite intensive care and intervention, the upper branches had to be removed for safety reasons. The distinctive U-shaped trunk remains in place to allow continued student play and to preserve this cherished part of our history.
We recognize the deep significance of the Horse Tree to our alumnae community. With this in mind, we are exploring ways to preserve and reuse the branches—for example, to create a shade covering—so the tree’s legacy can continue.
We look forward to sharing more soon! Have a special memory of the Horse Tree? We invite you to send stories and photos to Manda Haligowski, Archivist.
Support Future Talent Through the CHS Work Experience Program
Crofton House School’s Work Experience Program (WEP) gives motivated Grade 11 and 12 students the chance to gain real-world experience, contribute meaningfully, and explore career paths. Employers benefit from fresh perspectives, skilled support, and the rewarding opportunity to mentor the next generation. Our strongest program connections often come from within the CHS community, and students are always eager to learn from the experience and expertise of alumnae. Get involved and learn more!
Welcome Back to School, Alum Mums and Daughters
Alum mums are an important part of our community, as parents of 39 CHS students and as CHS Alumnae Association volunteers who share their time, energy, and support. On Tuesday, September 23, the alum mums enjoyed breakfast on campus and were welcomed to the 2025-2026 school year by Kelly (McCarthy) Eng ’90, President, CHS Alumnae Association; Ena Harrop, Head of School; Kara McDonald, Deputy Head; Sarah Nikkel, Director, Advancement; and Shina Boparai, Manager, Alumnae Relations.
Upcoming Calendar of Events
- October 2 and October 23, 2025: Jam Making
- Sundays, September 2025-May 3, 2026: Drop-in Alumnae Pickleball
- Friday, November 21, 2025: Class of 1990 Reunion
- Wednesday, November 26, 2025: Jam Wrapping, Wine & Cheese, and Alumnae Social
- Saturday, November 29, 2025: Alumnae Country Kitchen Booth Monday,
- December 15, 2025: Class of 2005 Reunion
- Wednesday, December 17, 2025: Young Alumnae Social
- Friday, December 19, 2025: Carol Service & Seasonal Social
Visit the Alumnae Events page for more details and registration info.
From the Archives
Junior students on a new playground in The Woods (taken 1980 or 1981). This playground was funded by money raised from the Bazaar.
Recognize yourself or a friend in this photo? Help the Archives by letting us know who these students are.
Be in the know, and stay connected. Follow us on Instagram (@chsalumnae), LinkedIn and Facebook, and join the alumnae network at croftonconnect.ca.
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