From our Head of Boarding

As we emerge from the pandemic, this academic year has begun to feel almost ‘normal’.

We have seen the easing of Covid restrictions, and as a result, we were able to resume many boarding traditions, most notably our Boarders’ Christmas Dinner at Peterhouse, the Boarders’ Concert and afternoon tea with our neighbours in the almshouses.

Scrumptious Afternoon Tea

We are full of hope and anticipation for what our newly-appointed team of Boarding Prefects for 2022-2023 has in store. Ably led by Miranda Q., the team: Skylana O-A., Susan D., Obelia L., Katherine M. and Fisayo O. are excited to plan fun activities for all boarders. Their first task was to organise the afternoon tea for residents of the almshouses on Brooklands Avenue. On Bank Holiday Monday, 18 residents enjoyed a scrumptious afternoon tea created by our wonderful chef Laith, accompanied by entertainment from boarders and a game or two of Bingo! Boarders also chatted to the residents over a cup of tea. A wonderful time was had by all.

We are full of hope and anticipation for what our newly-appointed team of Boarding Prefects for 2022-2023 has in store.

Busy weekends

Each weekend has seen a packed programme of exciting trips and 'in house' activities. This has included: craft workshops, Bingo, punting, ice-skating, an Easter Egg hunt and visits to an Escape Room, The Fitzwilliam Museum, Thorpe Park, the Harry Potter Studio Tour, Clip ‘n Climb, Ely, Wimpole Hall and Grantchester.

The highlight of Autumn Term, however, was most definitely the boarders’ Christmas Dinner at Peterhouse. We enjoyed a delicious meal in the most beautiful, candle-lit setting of Cambridge University’s oldest college. It was the most wonderful evening, and it felt very special to be able to do this again after a two-year gap. This is a tradition for the boarders and a date for 2022 has already been booked!

The highlight of Autumn Term, however, was most definitely the boarders’ Christmas Dinner at Peterhouse. We enjoyed a delicious meal in the most beautiful, candle-lit setting of Cambridge University’s oldest college. 

Keeping active

We introduced Saturday morning exercise for boarders, and activities have included: swimming, circuits and yoga delivered by a professional teacher.

A special mention must go to Trinity S. and Jessica C. in Year 9, who have attended almost every weekend trip and activity!

Our Concert tradition returns!

After a three-year gap, in March, we were finally able to hold a Boarders’ Concert in the Senior School for staff and students. Boarders from all year groups sang, danced and acted, showcasing a wide variety of talent. This concert is one of the last events led by the out-going Prefect Team, and I must say a big thank you to our 2021-2022 team: Head Boarder, Aliyah D-A., Deputy Head Boarder, Lam (Anjelika) Y. and the rest of the team: Jennifer C., Stephanie E. and Sophia Z. for all their hard work during the past year.

New well-being room

This year we converted an underused Parent Room into a Well-being Room. Boarders volunteered to be part of the planning and design team. They chose the colour scheme and advised on what they wanted (and didn’t want!) in terms of artwork. Thank you to the Circle of Friends, who donated funds to allow us to purchase plants and accessories. The room is available for individuals or small groups to relax and get away from the ‘business’ of Mary Ward House. Over this summer break, the boarders’ kitchen will be refurbished, and seven new bed spaces will be created.

We also said a fond farewell to Mrs Hale (Matron) and Miss Walton (Matron) and welcomed Ms Lezar (Matron) and Miss Warden (Senior Matron) in the Spring and Summer terms, respectively.

As this academic draws to a close, I look forward to working with colleagues to welcome the new arrivals, as well as our returning boarders in the Autumn Term.

Claire Elliott, Head of Boarding

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