Guiding the Next: Ellis Big Bros Night

24 February 2026William L, Ellis '26

On Tuesday nights every other week, Ellis House rooms fill with laughter, pizza boxes, and conversations that go far beyond small talk. Big Bros Night brings together students from Grades 8 to 11 with Grade 12 leaders, creating small groups where younger students can connect with older peers in a relaxed, welcoming environment. From shared slices of pizza to shared advice, the program has become a cornerstone of Ellis House culture, fostering mentorship, friendship, and a strong sense of brotherhood that extends well beyond Tuesday nights.

“There is nothing better than Big Bros,” shares Ellis House Big Bros Prefect Thomas W, Ellis ’26. “The way the whole house interacts with each other is honestly just so wholesome.”

Elan A, Ellis ’26, echoes this sentiment. “I still remember being in their shoes as a new Grade 10. It honestly feels like yesterday. Growing into a Big Brother for others and being someone the younger grades can look up to is awesome.”

Held fortnightly on Tuesdays, Big Bros Night assigns students from Grades 8 to 12 into groups led by a Grade 12 roommate pair. Whether first-year seniors or longtime Brentwood students, the Grade 12s in Ellis take pride in getting to know their younger peers on a personal level and building bonds that last beyond their time at Brentwood. From watching a Netflix show or a hockey game to simply catching up on life, Big Bros Night is a highlight many boys look forward to each week.

New Boarding Faculty Assistant of Ellis House, Mr Ma, shared his perspective on the tradition: “Big Bros is such a great opportunity for boys in the house, no matter their grade, to connect and just be guys together. You can always hear the laughter, and it’s clear how much the boys cherish these nights.”

A heartfelt thank you goes to my Grade 12 squad, especially Big Bros Prefect Thomas, for organizing groups and pizza orders, to Mr Collis Handford and Mr Wismer for supporting the tradition, and to the Ellis housemates who make these nights special. While not every conversation or game will be remembered, the sense of joy and belonging will last. Big Bros Night will always hold a special place in Ellis House and my heart, and it is a tradition that will continue to be passed down, De manu in manum.

William L, Ellis ‘26

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