The Power of Purple

3 February 2025Savannah J, Alexandra ‘25

Laughter and smiles echo through the halls, late-night conversations are a staple, and the legendary tales of Little Boy Blue and the mysterious power of the “Purple House” still linger within the walls of the oldest buildings on Brentwood’s campus – Alexandra House.

At Alexandra, a unique and vibrant culture thrives, creating a home away from home for both boarders and day students. Whether you’re arriving from across the globe – from China, Saudi Arabia, India, Germany – or closer to home, from places like Edmonton, Calgary, Revelstoke, or even Vancouver Island, everyone can find a warm and welcoming place in Alex.

The house is guided by our wonderful Houseparents, Ms Jenna Warner and Ms Sarah Langer, who offer students a caring adult to look out for them, or simply a friendly ear for a chat. Entering a new environment can be daunting, which is why the role of the houseparent is so vital to the community. But it’s not just about the houseparents who shaped the culture – it’s the students as well.

To foster connections beyond your roommate, Alexandra House hosts Dino Fams almost every month on Tuesday nights. Dino Fams are groups curated by the House Prefects, mixing students from all grades and led by the 12s. As Kayleigh S, Alexandra ‘25, explains: “Sometimes in Dino Fams, we decorate cookies, tell stories, and get to know each other. With new groups every term, there’s always an opportunity to make fresh connections with everyone in the house.”

Meeting new people can be scary, but when students are sorted into the houses, they are given the chance to connect with amazing people and feel the pride of one’s House spirit: bonds begin, as well as lifelong friendships. Dino Fams are unique because it’s a calm time to decompress with fellow students who feel the same way. “As a day student, I don’t get to live with the people in Alexandra House, but in Dino Fams I get the chance to know more about people in the house that I usually don’t know that well” states Hillary S, Alexandra ‘27. Assistant House Captain Nikita F, Alexandra ‘25 shares: “I have been in Alex House since Grade 10, and even in my third year, Dino Fams is my favourite Alex House tradition.”

A special thanks to all the Alexandra House Prefects who make these times memorable for all and a bigger thank you to all the Alexandra House duty staff and Houseparents for running such an incredible and warm home away from home.

Savannah J, Alexandra ‘25

Where Students Choose To Be