The News 18 September 2025
College
St Bede's
St DO's
St Aidan's
St CT's
Junior House
St John's
St Hugh's
St Margaret's
Message from the Headmaster
Last Saturday we enjoyed our biggest attendance at an Open Day for a long time which was very encouraging. As ever, our pupils were the stars of the day, showing off their school in the authentic way they do. Everyone enjoyed the inter-House Raft Race on Sunday. Pupils built their own rafts and raced them round the lake; most made it round successfully but some unfortunately sank! There were quite a lot of soggy people in the Valley. Our Y9 pupils enjoyed the first Year-group retreat of this new term on Tuesday; an opportunity to cement friendships, continue to make new ones, and leave behind ordinary day to day life. Retreats allow us to intentionally make time for reflection, valuable introspection, and prayer.
Y13 pupils enjoyed their first Headmaster's lecture last night, delivered by Mary Coulsen MBE who spoke about the charity she set up. Restart Africa rescues street children in Kenya, offering them a haven from drugs, violence and homelessness. It was a moving talk and inspired reflection about the world at a crucial time for our pupils as they start planning the next steps of their lives after Ampleforth. Our Governors were also here yesterday, meeting with the Senior Leadership team to review our short-term and confirm our medium-term strategy. We are fortunate to have such a committed board and I look forward to sharing the fruits of our labour with you as we move forward. I hope your children enjoy the exeat; an important opportunity to look back on their first three weeks of term and get some rest before coming back refreshed for the weeks ahead. I look forward to meeting with Y13 parents at the Parent Day next weekend. Please remember you are invited to join me for coffee and pastries in my study from 9.15am. Best wishes, Jon
Inter-House Raft Race 2025
This year’s Inter-House raft race went swimmingly, with the 8 Houses assembling and racing their rafts in various degrees of success and speed. Points were also awarded for style, with some great themes including Bananas in Pyjamas, Pirates, and Where’s Wally. Despite a downpour, spirits stayed high with tremendous cheering from the crowded banks of spectators (who were almost as wet as the rafters!)
Congratulations to St Cuthbert’s and St Thomas’ on taking first place, with strong performances also from St Hugh’s, St Aidan’s, and St Bede’s. A brilliant team-building Sunday in the valley.
Catholic Herald Interview with the Headmaster
Did you know that our marathon-running, Classics-teaching Headmaster used to be a National Chess Champion? Find out more in this in-depth interview about all things Ampleforth in the Catholic Herald.
Message from Mrs Dent
Another week flies by and here we are, about to head into Exeat. It's been a fantastic first three weeks of term and we have loved getting to know our new house members. With house events to help with integration, everyone has settled, so much so that it would be difficult to differentiate old from new. The Interhouse Raft-Race last weekend was great fun and the girls did themselves proud with their theme of 'Bananas in Pyjamas'. We send everyone off now for a weekend of rest and re-charge before looking forward to the return next week, for part two of the Michaelmas Term. Ceri Dent, Housemistress St Aidan's House
Interhouse Raft Race
Interhouse Raft Race
A reminder that if you'd like to keep up with the goings on of the House and girls, then do find us on social media. Please do also feel free to drop me line with news or pictures of interesting or note-worthy things the girls have been up to in the holidays. It's always nice to share their experience more widely on these pages to celebrate the many gifts and achievements of the girls.
Dear Parents, I can hardly believe how quickly this fun-filled week has flown by, and here we are already at the EXEAT break. Our Year 9s put on a fantastic House Social last weekend with a lively disco and hot dogs for everyone, and each year group enjoyed their own special socials at different venues. The Year 12s even had their first experience of the famous Windmill and all behaved impeccably. The inter-House raft race was also a highlight last Sunday after Mass. The girls built a raft that truly stood the test of time and showed amazing House spirit on the water - we came fourth overall! It was my very first time joining a raft race, and I have to say the girls' coordination and teamwork made me feel completely safe and very proud. We also got to celebrate four birthdays - Rose, Mrs Edgar, Katelyn, and Matron Lori, each had their special moment this week. A huge shout out to our Nancy in Year 12 for her incredible cricket performance at Lord's where she was representing the MCC. She finished with three wickets for nine runs from her four overs! Finally our ever-punctual Year 10s earned themselves a chocolate fountain treat for always being on time to check-ins and prayers. After a cold afternoon at sport, Akosua and Sophie treated us to warm, delicious pancakes. It's these little moments of community togetherness that make our house so special. I wish you all a restful and safe EXEAT. Enjoy the break together and I look forward to seeing you all back on Monday from 6pm. Annette Du Randt St Bede's Housemistress
Year 10 Pancakes and Chocolate Treats
Year 9 House Social
Nancy in Year 12 doing us proud in Cricket!
Unfortunately the York MCC Foundation Hub lost by just four runs at Lords Cricket Ground. Our own Nancy finished with three wickets for nine runs from her four overs!
Annual Inter-House Raft Race
TEAM WORK
Good luck girls - look after your Housemistress!
More from the Annual Inter-House Raft Race
Keep up to date:
Instagram
Facebook
St Bede's House, Ampleforth College
@stbedeshouseampleforth
Exeat Already?
At the end of a busy week we prepare to wave the boys off for a much needed Exeat rest. The pace of College life has been impressive and the boys have coped well so far. Highlights of the last week include the Inter-House Raft Race, two sets of rugby fixtures, and many opportunities for the house to be together in a positive and happy way. I have been particularly pleased with the student leadership, which is why we were such worthy winners at the Raft Race. The boys stepped up, organising and supporting one another. The speed of build and rowing was really impressive and almost entirely down to the pupils' own efforts. A couple of other highlights include seeing Guy speak in Assembly so well and the Year 9 boys helping with the chickens – they had lots of fun! I hope you all have a wonderful Exeat and see you all soon!
Rugby v Pock
Rugby v Pock
Raft Race Winners
Raft Race Winners
Raft Race Winners
Raft Race Winners
Raft Race Winners
Guy read brilliantly
Chicken Farming!
Chicken Farming!
Chicken Farming!
First Lectio Session
First Lectio Session
Good Luck Harry L
Last year's Head of House left for Melbourne yesterday to start his year of playing and coaching cricket in Australia and Sri Lanka. We hope he has a wonderful time.
Pupdate
Message from the Housemaster
With great weather almost all week, the boys have continued to settle and to enjoy their time together. After many sporting successes in rugby on Saturday and Wednesday, the inter house raft race was another opportunity to show off our raft building and sailing skills. If only ...
Sporting Success
The 1st XV narrowly lost their first match of the season against Pocklington. Our 2nd team however, gave the opposition a real beating. As per usual, more than half of the team consisted of our boys.
Saturday Night
Some of our new year 12s enjpying their first Windmill visit of their time at Ampleforth.
Saturday Night
Nico, Charles, Hector and Justus socialising in the corridor.
Raft Race
On Saturday evening, the boys were trying to make yellow hard hats out of card for our raft race motto "Bob the Builder". Just as our raft the next day, they disintegrated rather quickly...
Raft Race
Our seniors leading the house to the lakes.
Raft Race
Juan with our house flag and Hector rather sure of yet another victory.
Raft Race
After our first raft collapsed when it was picked up to carry it to the edge of the lake, our building team quickly assembled something at might float. But how to get 9 people on it?
Raft Race
Mr Rutter volunteered to be the member of staff on the raft (requirement according to the rules). Better him than me, I say! Here he is in boyant mood. Unlike the raft...
Raft Race
The launch
Raft Race
The struggle
Raft Race
The desaster
Sunday Night is Deli Night
In the evening, we took solace in a rather nice Deli Night (including home made salmon blinies).
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Bart clearing up after himself. Good chap!
Year 9 Reward
Our year 9s were rewarded with a steak party on Sunday for keeping their dorm clean for one week, for not receiving a single negative AP and for getting at least on positive AP during that week.
Year 9 Reward
Happy chaps!
Year 9 Reward
Happy birthday
On Monday, Gonzalo turned 16.
Happy birthday
Happy birthday
On Wednesday, we had a joined birthday. Paddy turned 16 and Eddie 15.
Last but not least
Our new golf net is very popular among the boys. Thank you to Mr Harrison for the loan.
Last but not least .2
Harry looking rather intellectual in this shot.
Follow us on social media for updates!
A message from Mr Viesel
Raft Race 2025
The boys showed strong teamwork throughout the raft race, with a rapid build, good times on the lake and then a really impressive, whole-House effort to dismantle the raft. They can be proud to have placed second against some excellent competition.
Hugh's boys doing their bit in the week's rugby matches
Message from Ms Paterson
Dear Parents, It has been a busy lead up to Exeat, and I think we can all agree that a well-earned rest is very welcome! The highlight of the past week was undoubtedly the Raft Race. What began as a display of teamwork and determination quickly turned into high drama, as our raft broke apart mid-race, leaving several of our brave girls in the water. True to my spirit, I refused to go down with the ship, clinging on valiantly to what remained. Meanwhile, our Head of House, Chloe Grace, showed inspiring leadership, being the first to dive in and set the tone for courage and camaraderie. There was no doubt, however, that we were the best dressed, thanks to our brilliant Where’s Wally? theme instantly recognisable, cheerful, and full of house spirit! For our courageous efforts (and stylish presentation), we rounded off the day with takeaway pizza, the perfect way to cheer ourselves up and share plenty of laughter after such an unforgettable adventure. We also came together for our first House Mass with Fr Oswald, a special occasion that reminded us of the importance of gratitude and faith at the heart of our community. We are deeply thankful for his continued support and guidance. As we head into the Exeat weekend, I hope all the girls enjoy a restful break with family and friends. May they return refreshed and ready to embrace all that life at Ampleforth has to offer in the weeks ahead. With warm regards, Rebecca
Raft Race
Raft Race
Happy Birthday Anina and Hannah!
Junior House Newsletter 18/9/25
See what our Junior House has been up to this week...
Start!
Message from the Housemaster
What a week it has been in Junior House! After a very busy first three weeks back in the valley, we’ve packed in even more fun and learning. The annual raft race was a highlight, and the cheers from the banks were deafening. We saw some truly creative designs, but in the end, it was our 'Sinking Smurfs' entry that took the prize for the most spectacular (and quickest!) descent into the water. The teamwork and laughter on display were a testament to the wonderful spirit of our house. On Wednesday, we put our thinking caps on for a brilliant quiz night with Mr. James. The competition was fierce, with some incredible knowledge on show from every team. Congratulations to our quiz masters who managed to outsmart everyone else, but everyone was a winner for their fantastic effort. With another busy week behind us, I wish you all a lovely, restful weekend. You have certainly earned it!
Start!
Next
Science Challenege
TOur budding scientists recently took on the ultimate engineering challenge: to design a parachute to safely land a raw egg. The creativity on display was amazing, with designs ranging from minimalist to highly complex. The grand finale was a great success. While a few eggs didn't make it, many landed without a single crack, proving that with some ingenuity, anything is possible. A huge well done to everyone who took part! It was a fantastic reminder of how much fun science can be.
Start!
Next
Raft Race
!What a valiant effort from Junior House in the annual raft race! Embracing a "Smurfs" theme, our team was a sea of blue as they took to the water with high hopes and even higher spirits. The craftsmanship was truly a sight to behold, but sadly, our little smurfs’ knots did not stand up to the test. Despite a brilliant start, the raft's structural integrity proved no match for the water's challenges, leading to some very wet but laughing smurfs. Although victory wasn't ours this year, the bravery and good humour on display were truly inspiring. Well done to all the team members for their fantastic effort!
Start!
Next
Upcoming Events
Tuesday 23rd Septmeber Years 7/8 Geography Field Trip - bring warm clothes and sensible footwear 7.45am departure Saturday 27th September Girls U13 Hockey Away vs Newcastle RGS 1.30pm pus back Return 5:30pm
Start!
Next
Follow us....
Sports Fixtures Please follow this link to keep up to date with all our fixtures.
Password - Benedictine 1802
Next
The News 18 September 2025
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Transcript
The News 18 September 2025
College
St Bede's
St DO's
St Aidan's
St CT's
Junior House
St John's
St Hugh's
St Margaret's
Message from the Headmaster
Last Saturday we enjoyed our biggest attendance at an Open Day for a long time which was very encouraging. As ever, our pupils were the stars of the day, showing off their school in the authentic way they do. Everyone enjoyed the inter-House Raft Race on Sunday. Pupils built their own rafts and raced them round the lake; most made it round successfully but some unfortunately sank! There were quite a lot of soggy people in the Valley. Our Y9 pupils enjoyed the first Year-group retreat of this new term on Tuesday; an opportunity to cement friendships, continue to make new ones, and leave behind ordinary day to day life. Retreats allow us to intentionally make time for reflection, valuable introspection, and prayer. Y13 pupils enjoyed their first Headmaster's lecture last night, delivered by Mary Coulsen MBE who spoke about the charity she set up. Restart Africa rescues street children in Kenya, offering them a haven from drugs, violence and homelessness. It was a moving talk and inspired reflection about the world at a crucial time for our pupils as they start planning the next steps of their lives after Ampleforth. Our Governors were also here yesterday, meeting with the Senior Leadership team to review our short-term and confirm our medium-term strategy. We are fortunate to have such a committed board and I look forward to sharing the fruits of our labour with you as we move forward. I hope your children enjoy the exeat; an important opportunity to look back on their first three weeks of term and get some rest before coming back refreshed for the weeks ahead. I look forward to meeting with Y13 parents at the Parent Day next weekend. Please remember you are invited to join me for coffee and pastries in my study from 9.15am. Best wishes, Jon
Inter-House Raft Race 2025
This year’s Inter-House raft race went swimmingly, with the 8 Houses assembling and racing their rafts in various degrees of success and speed. Points were also awarded for style, with some great themes including Bananas in Pyjamas, Pirates, and Where’s Wally. Despite a downpour, spirits stayed high with tremendous cheering from the crowded banks of spectators (who were almost as wet as the rafters!) Congratulations to St Cuthbert’s and St Thomas’ on taking first place, with strong performances also from St Hugh’s, St Aidan’s, and St Bede’s. A brilliant team-building Sunday in the valley.
Catholic Herald Interview with the Headmaster
Did you know that our marathon-running, Classics-teaching Headmaster used to be a National Chess Champion? Find out more in this in-depth interview about all things Ampleforth in the Catholic Herald.
Message from Mrs Dent
Another week flies by and here we are, about to head into Exeat. It's been a fantastic first three weeks of term and we have loved getting to know our new house members. With house events to help with integration, everyone has settled, so much so that it would be difficult to differentiate old from new. The Interhouse Raft-Race last weekend was great fun and the girls did themselves proud with their theme of 'Bananas in Pyjamas'. We send everyone off now for a weekend of rest and re-charge before looking forward to the return next week, for part two of the Michaelmas Term. Ceri Dent, Housemistress St Aidan's House
Interhouse Raft Race
Interhouse Raft Race
A reminder that if you'd like to keep up with the goings on of the House and girls, then do find us on social media. Please do also feel free to drop me line with news or pictures of interesting or note-worthy things the girls have been up to in the holidays. It's always nice to share their experience more widely on these pages to celebrate the many gifts and achievements of the girls.
Dear Parents, I can hardly believe how quickly this fun-filled week has flown by, and here we are already at the EXEAT break. Our Year 9s put on a fantastic House Social last weekend with a lively disco and hot dogs for everyone, and each year group enjoyed their own special socials at different venues. The Year 12s even had their first experience of the famous Windmill and all behaved impeccably. The inter-House raft race was also a highlight last Sunday after Mass. The girls built a raft that truly stood the test of time and showed amazing House spirit on the water - we came fourth overall! It was my very first time joining a raft race, and I have to say the girls' coordination and teamwork made me feel completely safe and very proud. We also got to celebrate four birthdays - Rose, Mrs Edgar, Katelyn, and Matron Lori, each had their special moment this week. A huge shout out to our Nancy in Year 12 for her incredible cricket performance at Lord's where she was representing the MCC. She finished with three wickets for nine runs from her four overs! Finally our ever-punctual Year 10s earned themselves a chocolate fountain treat for always being on time to check-ins and prayers. After a cold afternoon at sport, Akosua and Sophie treated us to warm, delicious pancakes. It's these little moments of community togetherness that make our house so special. I wish you all a restful and safe EXEAT. Enjoy the break together and I look forward to seeing you all back on Monday from 6pm. Annette Du Randt St Bede's Housemistress
Year 10 Pancakes and Chocolate Treats
Year 9 House Social
Nancy in Year 12 doing us proud in Cricket!
Unfortunately the York MCC Foundation Hub lost by just four runs at Lords Cricket Ground. Our own Nancy finished with three wickets for nine runs from her four overs!
Annual Inter-House Raft Race
TEAM WORK
Good luck girls - look after your Housemistress!
More from the Annual Inter-House Raft Race
Keep up to date:
Instagram
Facebook
St Bede's House, Ampleforth College
@stbedeshouseampleforth
Exeat Already?
At the end of a busy week we prepare to wave the boys off for a much needed Exeat rest. The pace of College life has been impressive and the boys have coped well so far. Highlights of the last week include the Inter-House Raft Race, two sets of rugby fixtures, and many opportunities for the house to be together in a positive and happy way. I have been particularly pleased with the student leadership, which is why we were such worthy winners at the Raft Race. The boys stepped up, organising and supporting one another. The speed of build and rowing was really impressive and almost entirely down to the pupils' own efforts. A couple of other highlights include seeing Guy speak in Assembly so well and the Year 9 boys helping with the chickens – they had lots of fun! I hope you all have a wonderful Exeat and see you all soon!
Rugby v Pock
Rugby v Pock
Raft Race Winners
Raft Race Winners
Raft Race Winners
Raft Race Winners
Raft Race Winners
Guy read brilliantly
Chicken Farming!
Chicken Farming!
Chicken Farming!
First Lectio Session
First Lectio Session
Good Luck Harry L
Last year's Head of House left for Melbourne yesterday to start his year of playing and coaching cricket in Australia and Sri Lanka. We hope he has a wonderful time.
Pupdate
Message from the Housemaster
With great weather almost all week, the boys have continued to settle and to enjoy their time together. After many sporting successes in rugby on Saturday and Wednesday, the inter house raft race was another opportunity to show off our raft building and sailing skills. If only ...
Sporting Success
The 1st XV narrowly lost their first match of the season against Pocklington. Our 2nd team however, gave the opposition a real beating. As per usual, more than half of the team consisted of our boys.
Saturday Night
Some of our new year 12s enjpying their first Windmill visit of their time at Ampleforth.
Saturday Night
Nico, Charles, Hector and Justus socialising in the corridor.
Raft Race
On Saturday evening, the boys were trying to make yellow hard hats out of card for our raft race motto "Bob the Builder". Just as our raft the next day, they disintegrated rather quickly...
Raft Race
Our seniors leading the house to the lakes.
Raft Race
Juan with our house flag and Hector rather sure of yet another victory.
Raft Race
After our first raft collapsed when it was picked up to carry it to the edge of the lake, our building team quickly assembled something at might float. But how to get 9 people on it?
Raft Race
Mr Rutter volunteered to be the member of staff on the raft (requirement according to the rules). Better him than me, I say! Here he is in boyant mood. Unlike the raft...
Raft Race
The launch
Raft Race
The struggle
Raft Race
The desaster
Sunday Night is Deli Night
In the evening, we took solace in a rather nice Deli Night (including home made salmon blinies).
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Bart clearing up after himself. Good chap!
Year 9 Reward
Our year 9s were rewarded with a steak party on Sunday for keeping their dorm clean for one week, for not receiving a single negative AP and for getting at least on positive AP during that week.
Year 9 Reward
Happy chaps!
Year 9 Reward
Happy birthday
On Monday, Gonzalo turned 16.
Happy birthday
Happy birthday
On Wednesday, we had a joined birthday. Paddy turned 16 and Eddie 15.
Last but not least
Our new golf net is very popular among the boys. Thank you to Mr Harrison for the loan.
Last but not least .2
Harry looking rather intellectual in this shot.
Follow us on social media for updates!
A message from Mr Viesel
Raft Race 2025
The boys showed strong teamwork throughout the raft race, with a rapid build, good times on the lake and then a really impressive, whole-House effort to dismantle the raft. They can be proud to have placed second against some excellent competition.
Hugh's boys doing their bit in the week's rugby matches
Message from Ms Paterson
Dear Parents, It has been a busy lead up to Exeat, and I think we can all agree that a well-earned rest is very welcome! The highlight of the past week was undoubtedly the Raft Race. What began as a display of teamwork and determination quickly turned into high drama, as our raft broke apart mid-race, leaving several of our brave girls in the water. True to my spirit, I refused to go down with the ship, clinging on valiantly to what remained. Meanwhile, our Head of House, Chloe Grace, showed inspiring leadership, being the first to dive in and set the tone for courage and camaraderie. There was no doubt, however, that we were the best dressed, thanks to our brilliant Where’s Wally? theme instantly recognisable, cheerful, and full of house spirit! For our courageous efforts (and stylish presentation), we rounded off the day with takeaway pizza, the perfect way to cheer ourselves up and share plenty of laughter after such an unforgettable adventure. We also came together for our first House Mass with Fr Oswald, a special occasion that reminded us of the importance of gratitude and faith at the heart of our community. We are deeply thankful for his continued support and guidance. As we head into the Exeat weekend, I hope all the girls enjoy a restful break with family and friends. May they return refreshed and ready to embrace all that life at Ampleforth has to offer in the weeks ahead. With warm regards, Rebecca
Raft Race
Raft Race
Happy Birthday Anina and Hannah!
Junior House Newsletter 18/9/25
See what our Junior House has been up to this week...
Start!
Message from the Housemaster
What a week it has been in Junior House! After a very busy first three weeks back in the valley, we’ve packed in even more fun and learning. The annual raft race was a highlight, and the cheers from the banks were deafening. We saw some truly creative designs, but in the end, it was our 'Sinking Smurfs' entry that took the prize for the most spectacular (and quickest!) descent into the water. The teamwork and laughter on display were a testament to the wonderful spirit of our house. On Wednesday, we put our thinking caps on for a brilliant quiz night with Mr. James. The competition was fierce, with some incredible knowledge on show from every team. Congratulations to our quiz masters who managed to outsmart everyone else, but everyone was a winner for their fantastic effort. With another busy week behind us, I wish you all a lovely, restful weekend. You have certainly earned it!
Start!
Next
Science Challenege
TOur budding scientists recently took on the ultimate engineering challenge: to design a parachute to safely land a raw egg. The creativity on display was amazing, with designs ranging from minimalist to highly complex. The grand finale was a great success. While a few eggs didn't make it, many landed without a single crack, proving that with some ingenuity, anything is possible. A huge well done to everyone who took part! It was a fantastic reminder of how much fun science can be.
Start!
Next
Raft Race
!What a valiant effort from Junior House in the annual raft race! Embracing a "Smurfs" theme, our team was a sea of blue as they took to the water with high hopes and even higher spirits. The craftsmanship was truly a sight to behold, but sadly, our little smurfs’ knots did not stand up to the test. Despite a brilliant start, the raft's structural integrity proved no match for the water's challenges, leading to some very wet but laughing smurfs. Although victory wasn't ours this year, the bravery and good humour on display were truly inspiring. Well done to all the team members for their fantastic effort!
Start!
Next
Upcoming Events
Tuesday 23rd Septmeber Years 7/8 Geography Field Trip - bring warm clothes and sensible footwear 7.45am departure Saturday 27th September Girls U13 Hockey Away vs Newcastle RGS 1.30pm pus back Return 5:30pm
Start!
Next
Follow us....
Sports Fixtures Please follow this link to keep up to date with all our fixtures.
Password - Benedictine 1802
Next