October Half-Term Boarding News
It has been a fantastic start to the academic year with new boarders settling down to daily routines and forging new friendships. With over 58 nationalities in the boarding community, there is a chance for pupils to make friends with people from all over the world.
The first weekend saw entertaining team-building activities organised by House Prefects helping everyone become better acquainted, and there were barbeques in their House gardens. The impromptu bank holiday the following weekend due to the Queen’s funeral meant some boarders went home and those that stayed were able to relax in House, visit the town and watch the funeral.
The term continued with pupils having fun at their socials and safari suppers mixing with other Houses and they also enjoyed some interhouse rivalry competing in football, debating and basketball competitions. They went on an outing to the cinema, had pizza and movie nights, curry and quiz nights, took part in a cake decorating activity, and went on long walks around beautiful Rutland Water.
A highlight of the term for Seventh Formers in Round House and School House was the Hollywood-themed dinner with the Headmaster, their Tutors and the Senior Leadership Team. In advance of their meal, they visited their previous Middle School Houses much to the delight of their old Housemasters and Housemistresses and mixed happily with House staff and current members of Form 6.
Service Weekend saw Form 4 and 5 boarders out on Duke of Edinburgh expeditions or training with the CCF. Sixth Formers had the opportunity to take part in an ‘Adventure Day’ in Derbyshire, where they did exciting activities such as abseiling and rock climbing.
The new academic year has seen a few staff changes in our boarding community, including Tim Dixon–Dale, Housemaster of Wharflands House, taking over as the new Senior Housemaster and Lianne Aherne joining the School as the new Housemistress of Buchanans (and member of the Geography Department). Carly Latham (formerly Senior Housemistress and Housemistress of Buchanans) has moved to Round House to care for the Form 7 girls, and Andrew Ross has moved from his Day Housemaster role to take over as the Housemaster of School House. Teacher of Spanish, Michael Passey, joins the team as Day Housemaster. Oakham’s boarding staff have a wealth of experience, skills, and numerous different interests, which is of huge benefit to the pupils.
Tim Dixon Dale said, “I am delighted that we have been able to offer so many wonderful opportunities to our pupils, with our House staff working tirelessly to ensure they have had a fulfilling and memorable first half of term. Please keep up to date with the latest House news by following them on their social media channels.“
