Modern Boarding Life
As a boarding pupil at Stonyhurst College, you can look forward to being immersed in a high-quality education with endless opportunities to flourish, writes Emma Brereton. Photography: Kirsten Platt
Stonyhurst has developed a flexible boarding model, which helps ensure that every pupil is happy, settled and doing well in their studies. This has meant that, for many busy working families within the local area, boarding at Stonyhurst has become an attractive option.
“In any year group we have pupils who are full boarders, as well as those who just stay during the day, similar to a mainstream school,” says Reuban Strain, Year 12 boarding master. “Our day pupils are welcome to stay until 9:00pm, to take advantage of the many clubs and activities that are on offer.”
“Then there are weekly boarders who leave after games on Saturday, returning on Monday morning. We give the option for both weekly and day pupils to stay on additional or occasional nights if they wish – day pupil fees include three nights free per year so it is a very flexible model.”
“For example, if a child is staying late for a drama rehearsal, or music concert, or if they don’t want to miss out on a social event, we can give the flexibility for them to stay overnight. Likewise, if a parent has to be away for any reason, we are happy to provide that facility.”
Isobel, a day pupil from Old Langho, has been taking advantage of this flexi-boarding model and has really enjoyed the experience. “I thought it was very easy to adjust – my room was very clean and I did my studies in there even in the day. It was a very enjoyable experience.”
Boarding at Stonyhurst is very popular, with just under half of year nine pupils choosing to board. When it comes to sixth form, more than 60 per cent of pupils are full boarders with an additional 15 per cent attending as weekly boarders. As pupils move through the school, many day pupils and weekly boarders convert to full boarding in their GCSE year to take advantage of the support on offer outside of the classroom. In Lower Line (age 13-16), boarders typically share a room with four others, reducing as they get older until they have their own study bedrooms in sixth form.
There has been substantial investment in providing high quality accommodation, including Weld House, which opened in 2010, with fully equipped kitchens, social areas, and 40 ensuite bedrooms.
Ciaran, a weekly boarder from Lancaster, who joined Year 12 from a day school and boards in Weld House commented: “The beds are really comfy and I also like having my own shower and bathroom. We get plenty of really good food but it is also great to have the use of the kitchen so I can make snacks whenever I want. I’ve even learned to use the washing machine.”
Mrs Sutcliffe, Ciaran’s mother said: “Having come from a mainstream school as a day boy, the transition from day school to becoming a boarder at Stonyhurst has been a very smooth, positive one.”
“Ciaran is extremely happy at Stonyhurst, is involved in many different aspects of school life and has made lots of friends.”
“As parents we feel the benefits and opportunities open to Ciaran at Stonyhurst are incredible and will give him a fantastic grounding in moving forward into University life and his chosen career.”
“Studying aside, we believe recreational time is of huge benefit to our pupils,” added Reuban.
“Saturday evening events and weekend trips are held throughout the academic year to enable Higher Line students to socialise and relax, from cinema trips to city centre visits, from a night at the Oscars to quiz evenings. We encourage students to pursue their interests and ambitions both within and beyond the classroom.”
Reuban also tells me that a full induction programme is organised to assist pupils in settling in.
“In order to ensure that every child feels settled and at ease within the school, there are two days of induction, before the rest of Higher Line return for the start of the school year.”
“During the induction, there is time for parents to meet the key pastoral staff who will be responsible for the welfare of their child. By the time term starts, new friendships are blossoming and the pupils are familiar with the key areas of the college.”
Reuban concludes: “Stonyhurst is far more than just a school; it is a special place where everyone cares about each other. Here, pupils will make friends from all around the world to build a strong sense of community and develop their full potential.”
Stonyhurst College
Clitheroe
Lancashire BB7 9PZ
01254 826345
www.stonyhurst.ac.uk
