The News 26 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
The pupils were straight back into things here in the Valley following their well-deserved rest over the exeat weekend. Over exeat I attended a memorial service for an Old Amplefordian who passed away at age 22. Such events are always so difficult to comprehend but the resounding focus of grief stemming from love shone through during the homily and the eulogy. It was nice to see so many other OAs there and witness how strong the bonds of friendship are after time away from the Valley.
Next week I am away at the HMC conference. HMC is an association of Heads for over 300 independent schools in the UK and 350 worldwide; we have a great tradition within HMC with two former Heads of Ampleforth being Chair of HMC, Abbot Patrick Barry and Fr Dominic Milroy.
We enjoyed our first informal concert of the year today in Main Hall where pupils from both St Hugh's and St Margaret's Houses performed. It was lovely to watch some excellent soloists as well as the House songs which included all members of the Houses.
We look forward to the U6th Parents' Weekend where it is important that parents and pupils hear the feedback on progress towards academic targets. There is lots going on during the weekend but I do hope parents will be able to support their children in the sports matches against RGS Newcastle in Hockey (where we are hoping for a double after a good 36-33 away win against them in Newcastle for the 1st XV on Wednesday) and against Hymers College in Rugby.
Next weekend we celebrate 150 years of the Ampleforth Society with an action-packed programme over Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Over 100 OAs will join us for the various events such as guest lectures, retreats, Mentoring sessions with our Y12 pupils, OA Schola rehearsals, and joining with our Schola for Mass on Sunday. We are much looking forward to it. Best wishes, Jon
Geography Field Trip to Ingleborough
It was a fascinating day for our Year 7 and 8 Geographers who exchanged the classroom for caves on Tuesday in Ingleborough. The trip gave them the chance to see first-hand how water shapes the limestone beneath the Yorkshire Dales, and how it slowly carves out spectacular stalagmites and stalactites that hung above and rose from the cave floor. One of the highlights for many was the chance to see ancient fossils embedded in the rock walls, offering a glimpse into life that existed long ago. It was an unforgettable adventure under the surface.
Music Scholars Recital
Our Music Scholars showcased their talent in a delightful recital held in the Performing Arts Centre on Tuesday. The programme featured a mix of vocal and instrumental performances, with the cello, piano, organ and even the xylophone taking centre stage. Students and staff enjoyed an engaging afternoon of music, which also provided an excellent warm-up for those preparing to perform in the House Recitals on Friday.
Cross Country success!
Five of our junior runners took part and performed brilliantly against hundreds of students from across the district at the Scarborough Cross-Country event on Wednesday. The races were fast and furious, all over in less than 15 minutes! Well done to: Emma (11A): 3rd girl Cullen (11H): 4th boy Jacq (9H):10th boy Nazar (10CT): 30th boy Tolly (9J): 79th boy
Message from Mrs Dent
I hope that the Exeat was good for you all and a welcome opportunity to catch up with your daughters after the first few weeks of term. It was lovely to see the girls return on Monday evening changed in a small way - a hint of gained familiarity and comfort in their surroundings, both physical and in the 'community' sense. We're ready now for the next 4 week stretch, to be able to ease into the rhythm of daily college life, making progress towards our academic and other goals. The nights are drawing in a little and there's an autumnal feeling in the air. In deaneries this week, the girls have been discussing the meaning of silence. This picture represents a special time of the day for me - 10 minutes captured between bedtime rounds, when I'll often take the dog for quick walk around the perimeter of the house; the chance to pause and reflect on the day just gone, with a sense of gratitude for another day shared with the members of St Aidan's House and the knowledge that all are safely heading towards a night of rest before we begin again the next day. We're looking forward to seeing Year 13 parents this weekend, an important morning of meetings with teachers on Saturday as we work together to bring about the best possible outcome for each girl. The girls are busy rehearsing for their house music recital next Friday lunchtime. Here's wishing you all a great week ahead. Ceri Dent, Housemistress St Aidan's House
Snapshots from the week
We have so many talented musicians in the house, many of whom are fantastic singers. Sophie and Lily, pictured below, contribute so much each week alongside the other 12 St Aidan's members of the Schola. It is wonderful that they had the chance to showcase their voices in solo performances at this week's Scholars' recital.
Our tech/devices policy is designed, in part, to ensure that our pupils are able to gain a decent and uninterrupted night of sleep and all the health and wellbeing benefits that brings. Our new bedtime door-to-door 'tech-trolley' routine for seniors has brought about the added benefit of an extra opportunity to check in with each of the girls individually at the end of the day.
Snapshots from the week
Well done to Liza (Year 10) who enjoyed qualifying for the Combined Training Championship, finishing second at Northallerton Equestrian Centre on a very wet Saturday. Congratulations to Liza and all of the Ampleforth NSEA team for their recent successes.
Martha (Year 13), one of our Academic Scholars, attended the first lunchtime Scholars' discussion of the year this week, a weekly meet-up to discuss and reflect on big ideas. This week's focus was 'what is learning for?' which sparked a lively discussion.
Gabrielle and Katie are just two of our Year 13 Biologists who are loving their A Level learning. Here they are last week part way through a practical session.
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, It was a pleasure to welcome the girls back after the EXEAT. Although many were understandably a little tired, after making the most of their free time. Luckily, they have quickly settled back into the rhythm of school life. To start the week on a sweet note, our Year 11’s enjoyed a waffle and ice cream evening together, which was much appreciated. Looking ahead, our Year 10s will be hosting their social this week on Saturday Evening, coinciding with the official opening of our new Games Room. We are excited to see the girls engaging in a variety of fun activities designed to encourage interaction and the building of new friendships. This week we gathered for our House Mass, celebrated by Father Philip, after which matron kindly treated us to some delicious refreshments. I was so proud of the girls, who showed great respect and exemplary behaviour throughout the occasion. A particular highlight on the horizon is the Year 13 Parents’ Retreat and Weekend. This will be a wonderful opportunity for me to meet our Year 13 parents personally and get to know their families better. As a friendly reminder, if you would like to keep up with the life of the house and our pupils, please do follow us on social media. I would also be delighted if you could share any news, photos, or updates of the girls’ achievements or activities, it is always a joy to celebrate their experiences, gifts, and successes more widely within our community. Annette Du Randt St Bede's Housemistress
Year 11s having home-made waffles and Vienetta ice cream
House Mass
Our treats after Mass
Keep up to date:
Instagram
Facebook
St Bede's House, Ampleforth College
@stbedeshouseampleforth
A Short Week...
Exeat seems to have signified the start of Autumn. A change in season coincides with a change in energy, focus and effort. The school days remain packed and we do all we can at a house level to offer opportunities for reflection, peace and calmness. House mass and Deaneries this week have offered such an opportunity for the boys and sitting in on the Year 9 discussions during Lectio was thoroughly enjoyable and the boys very impressive too.
House Council met this week and the Pupil Voice remains a main part of the house. The boys have a vested interest in the running of the house and their opinions are hugely important. Watch this space for upcoming changes, although not all requests are attainable!
Year 13 Parents weekend this week promises to be a good one and I look forward to catching up with parents. The Year 13 will certainly have a clearer picture of what is needed for the rest of the year by the start of next week!
1st XV v RGS
1st XV v RGS
Autumnal Days...
U14/U15 Rugby
U14/U15 Rugby
Music Scholar Recital
Music Scholar Recital
Pupdate - Hadrian's Wall
Pupdate - Sycamore Gap
Pupdate - Spot the Puppy!
Message from the Housemaster
Having only returned from Exeat on Monday night, this Newsletter will be slightly shorter than usual. However, we have had a number of highlights in our house life this week, such as birthdays, cooking lessons, some creativity and the all important house council elections. This weekend, we are looking forward to welcoming our Year 13 parents to the valley for their last parents' conference and we will begin to rehearse for the inter house music competition. We have a title to defend!
Food, glorious food
It is moments like this when you know that the house community is as close as it can be. Gus (Year 9) wanted to learn how to cook a pasta dish. Elliot (Year 13) was at hand to patiently teach him. I am happy to report that the dish was very edible!
Food, glorious food
Elliot: "And now, before you put the pasta in, you need to season the water with salt". Gus: "Why would I season water? It's only water!" Some logic there...
Food, glorious food
Some of our Year 9s patiently waiting in the ref queue for their chilli.
Food, glorious food
While our Year 10s have already been served.I like the greens on Dom's plate.
Food, glorious food
Hurry up, guys!Freddie is almost finished.
Happy birthday
On Monday, Hector celebrated his 16th birthday. Birthday breakfast in Paris, birthday dinner in Ampleforth. C'est la vie!
Happy birthday
Happy Hector.
Creativity
It is encouraging to see that our new Creativity Room is being used. Life without phones is clearly bringing out the best in the boys.
Creativity
Creativity
Creativity
Entertainment
Teddy and Jonty practising their song for the Year 13 parents' conference concert on Saturday. What a treat.
Student Voice
The new democratically elected house council of 2025/26.
Luke (10), Richard (13), Nolan (12), Gus (9), Dom (10), Benny (Head of House), Ambrose (Deputy HoH)
Last but not least
The new dresser in the Study.Another excellent find in one of Thirsk's charity shops. Crafted by an apprentice of the Mouseman, aka Robert Thompson. Absolute bargain!
Follow us on social media for updates!
A message from Mr Viesel
Wine & Wisdom
On Thursday, after evening prayers, half the Y12 and Y13 boys took part in the first of our "Wine & Wisdom" seminars (the other boys will have their first session next week). Paul (Y13) spoke thoughtfully and without notes about a wide variety of counter-insurgency efforts, from Julius Caesar to contemporary conflicts by way of Vietnam and Colombia. The key question he addressed was why such counter-insurgencies fail so frequently. I was particularly pleased by the ways in which the boys raised interesting questions subsequently, with Seb (Y13) first off the bat, and discussion continuing after staff had left to get the younger years ready for bed.
Hugh's Music
It's been a busy week in the musical life of St Hugh's with the scholars' concert, rehearsals ahead of House Singing and then the joint Hugh's-Margaret's concert... Thanks go to Tom (Y13) for his solo performance and Edward (Y11) for his monologue from Journey's End for the joint concert, as well as to Mr Pallister for leading rehearsals and to Dawn and Miss Graham for the enthusiastic dancing...
St Hugh's House Recital
Great results in Cross Country
Hugh's were well-represented in the cross-country event at Scarborough this week, racing against hundreds of students from across the district. Well done to Cullen, who came fourth in the boys' race (and who was so fast that we didn't get a photo of him!) and to Jacq, who came tenth!
Back in the swing of things...
And then we've had a busy week with a birthday, a feast after House Mass, pancakes in break, successes in rugby, golf and football in the evenings...!
Hugh's boys doing their bit in the week's rugby matches
Message from Ms Paterson
Dear Parents, Life in the House continues to be full and joyful, and we are delighted to share with you some of the recent highlights. After the excitement of raft race and tug-of-war weekends, the exeat was very well received and provided a much-needed pause for the girls to rest, reflect, and return with renewed energy. It is in moments like these that we are reminded of the Benedictine value of balance, recognising the importance of both hard work and quiet rest in shaping a healthy rhythm of life.
Our Benedictine tradition calls us to seek wisdom, community, and stewardship, and it has been uplifting to see these values lived out so naturally in House life. The girls support one another in their studies, they share laughter and encouragement during rehearsals, and they show daily kindness in ways both big and small. In the past weeks, this has been especially evident through the Academic Scholars’ Programme, where so many of our girls took part with enthusiasm. Their love of learning and curiosity reflects not only their own dedication but also their willingness to use their gifts for the good of the whole community.
The House has also been ringing with music as rehearsals for the upcoming House Music Recital are in full swing. Practices have been busy and lively, but the effort and joy the girls bring to their preparations are a real testimony to the Benedictine spirit of discipline joined with delight. We are greatly looking forward to sharing in their performance, which promises to be both spirited and memorable.
As always, the social life of the House continues to strengthen the bonds of friendship that lie at the heart of St Margaret’s. We are looking forward to a variety of social plans this coming weekend, which will give the girls further opportunities to rest together, laugh together, and deepen the sense of fellowship that makes our House feel like a family.
Finally, we are eagerly anticipating Year 13 Parents’ Weekend. This will be a special moment to welcome families into the centre of House life, to celebrate all that the girls have achieved, and to affirm the community that continues to support them as they approach the final stages of their school journey.
Thank you, as always, for your support and encouragement. St Margaret’s continues to flourish as a community where the Benedictine values of balance, community, stewardship, and wisdom are lived out in daily life, and it is a privilege to walk this path alongside our girls.
With warm regards, Rebecca
Musical Scholars' Recital
Well done to Sofia (Y12) and Anina (Y13) for their wonderful performances.
House Recital
Happy Birthday Elsie & Thea!
Junior House Newsletter 26/9/25
See what our Junior House has been up to this week...
Start!
Message from the Housemaster
It's been a truly fantastic first week back after Exeat, and Junior House has hit the ground running! The sound of laughter and learning has filled the corridors as we quickly settled back into our routine. We kicked off the week with an early start for a brilliant Geography field trip to Ingleborough Caves. The pupils were utterly fascinated exploring the subterranean world, and it was a great opportunity to connect what we learn in the classroom with the real world. Back in the House, we've had a new, exciting addition: a pool table! It's already proving to be a fantastic new social hub for friendly matches and a great way to wind down. Meanwhile, our budding scientists have been tackling some more exciting tasks in the Science Challenge, pushing their problem-solving skills to the limit. With all this energy, we're now looking forward to an exciting weekend ahead with lots of activities planned. It’s certainly a great time to be in Junior House!
Start!
Back
Next
Science Challenege
This week's Science Challenge saw teams design and race balloon-powered cars. The task demanded ingenuity and a strong grasp of physics to propel vehicles using only escaping air. Pupils showed great teamwork and engineering ideas, using materials like cardboard and straws to optimize their designs. After exciting test runs, one team clearly came out on top! Their efficient, low-friction design demonstrated the best energy transfer, travelling the furthest distance. Well done to all for their scientific effort!
Start!
Next
Back
Pool Table
We're delighted to announce the fantastic new addition to Junior House: a pool table! A huge thanks goes to Matron and Ella, who, with some appreciated muscle from a couple of students, managed the great construction and assembly. It was a proper team effort to get it up and running. The new table is already proving to be incredibly popular, quickly becoming a new social hub. The sound of clacking balls and friendly competition is now a regular feature in the evenings, offering a brilliant new way for the pupils to relax and socialise!
Start!
Next
Back
Pool Table
We're delighted to announce the fantastic new addition to Junior House: a pool table! A huge thanks goes to Matron and Ella, who, with some appreciated muscle from a couple of students, managed the great construction and assembly. It was a proper team effort to get it up and running. The new table is already proving to be incredibly popular, quickly becoming a new social hub. The sound of clacking balls and friendly competition is now a regular feature in the evenings, offering a brilliant new way for the pupils to relax and socialise!
Start!
Next
Back
Upcoming Events
Saturday U13 A and B Hockey vs Newcastle RGS (Away) - 12pm Push Back 4.30pm Return Evening Activities Boys and Girls Night in House Sunday Birthday Party in Ampleforth Village Hall 3-5pm
Start!
Next
Back
Ampleforth Society
Start!
Next
Back
Follow us....
Sports Fixtures Please follow this link to keep up to date with all our fixtures.
Password - Benedictine 1802
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The News 26 September 2025
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The News 26 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
The pupils were straight back into things here in the Valley following their well-deserved rest over the exeat weekend. Over exeat I attended a memorial service for an Old Amplefordian who passed away at age 22. Such events are always so difficult to comprehend but the resounding focus of grief stemming from love shone through during the homily and the eulogy. It was nice to see so many other OAs there and witness how strong the bonds of friendship are after time away from the Valley. Next week I am away at the HMC conference. HMC is an association of Heads for over 300 independent schools in the UK and 350 worldwide; we have a great tradition within HMC with two former Heads of Ampleforth being Chair of HMC, Abbot Patrick Barry and Fr Dominic Milroy. We enjoyed our first informal concert of the year today in Main Hall where pupils from both St Hugh's and St Margaret's Houses performed. It was lovely to watch some excellent soloists as well as the House songs which included all members of the Houses. We look forward to the U6th Parents' Weekend where it is important that parents and pupils hear the feedback on progress towards academic targets. There is lots going on during the weekend but I do hope parents will be able to support their children in the sports matches against RGS Newcastle in Hockey (where we are hoping for a double after a good 36-33 away win against them in Newcastle for the 1st XV on Wednesday) and against Hymers College in Rugby. Next weekend we celebrate 150 years of the Ampleforth Society with an action-packed programme over Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Over 100 OAs will join us for the various events such as guest lectures, retreats, Mentoring sessions with our Y12 pupils, OA Schola rehearsals, and joining with our Schola for Mass on Sunday. We are much looking forward to it. Best wishes, Jon
Geography Field Trip to Ingleborough
It was a fascinating day for our Year 7 and 8 Geographers who exchanged the classroom for caves on Tuesday in Ingleborough. The trip gave them the chance to see first-hand how water shapes the limestone beneath the Yorkshire Dales, and how it slowly carves out spectacular stalagmites and stalactites that hung above and rose from the cave floor. One of the highlights for many was the chance to see ancient fossils embedded in the rock walls, offering a glimpse into life that existed long ago. It was an unforgettable adventure under the surface.
Music Scholars Recital
Our Music Scholars showcased their talent in a delightful recital held in the Performing Arts Centre on Tuesday. The programme featured a mix of vocal and instrumental performances, with the cello, piano, organ and even the xylophone taking centre stage. Students and staff enjoyed an engaging afternoon of music, which also provided an excellent warm-up for those preparing to perform in the House Recitals on Friday.
Cross Country success!
Five of our junior runners took part and performed brilliantly against hundreds of students from across the district at the Scarborough Cross-Country event on Wednesday. The races were fast and furious, all over in less than 15 minutes! Well done to: Emma (11A): 3rd girl Cullen (11H): 4th boy Jacq (9H):10th boy Nazar (10CT): 30th boy Tolly (9J): 79th boy
Message from Mrs Dent
I hope that the Exeat was good for you all and a welcome opportunity to catch up with your daughters after the first few weeks of term. It was lovely to see the girls return on Monday evening changed in a small way - a hint of gained familiarity and comfort in their surroundings, both physical and in the 'community' sense. We're ready now for the next 4 week stretch, to be able to ease into the rhythm of daily college life, making progress towards our academic and other goals. The nights are drawing in a little and there's an autumnal feeling in the air. In deaneries this week, the girls have been discussing the meaning of silence. This picture represents a special time of the day for me - 10 minutes captured between bedtime rounds, when I'll often take the dog for quick walk around the perimeter of the house; the chance to pause and reflect on the day just gone, with a sense of gratitude for another day shared with the members of St Aidan's House and the knowledge that all are safely heading towards a night of rest before we begin again the next day. We're looking forward to seeing Year 13 parents this weekend, an important morning of meetings with teachers on Saturday as we work together to bring about the best possible outcome for each girl. The girls are busy rehearsing for their house music recital next Friday lunchtime. Here's wishing you all a great week ahead. Ceri Dent, Housemistress St Aidan's House
Snapshots from the week
We have so many talented musicians in the house, many of whom are fantastic singers. Sophie and Lily, pictured below, contribute so much each week alongside the other 12 St Aidan's members of the Schola. It is wonderful that they had the chance to showcase their voices in solo performances at this week's Scholars' recital.
Our tech/devices policy is designed, in part, to ensure that our pupils are able to gain a decent and uninterrupted night of sleep and all the health and wellbeing benefits that brings. Our new bedtime door-to-door 'tech-trolley' routine for seniors has brought about the added benefit of an extra opportunity to check in with each of the girls individually at the end of the day.
Snapshots from the week
Well done to Liza (Year 10) who enjoyed qualifying for the Combined Training Championship, finishing second at Northallerton Equestrian Centre on a very wet Saturday. Congratulations to Liza and all of the Ampleforth NSEA team for their recent successes.
Martha (Year 13), one of our Academic Scholars, attended the first lunchtime Scholars' discussion of the year this week, a weekly meet-up to discuss and reflect on big ideas. This week's focus was 'what is learning for?' which sparked a lively discussion.
Gabrielle and Katie are just two of our Year 13 Biologists who are loving their A Level learning. Here they are last week part way through a practical session.
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, It was a pleasure to welcome the girls back after the EXEAT. Although many were understandably a little tired, after making the most of their free time. Luckily, they have quickly settled back into the rhythm of school life. To start the week on a sweet note, our Year 11’s enjoyed a waffle and ice cream evening together, which was much appreciated. Looking ahead, our Year 10s will be hosting their social this week on Saturday Evening, coinciding with the official opening of our new Games Room. We are excited to see the girls engaging in a variety of fun activities designed to encourage interaction and the building of new friendships. This week we gathered for our House Mass, celebrated by Father Philip, after which matron kindly treated us to some delicious refreshments. I was so proud of the girls, who showed great respect and exemplary behaviour throughout the occasion. A particular highlight on the horizon is the Year 13 Parents’ Retreat and Weekend. This will be a wonderful opportunity for me to meet our Year 13 parents personally and get to know their families better. As a friendly reminder, if you would like to keep up with the life of the house and our pupils, please do follow us on social media. I would also be delighted if you could share any news, photos, or updates of the girls’ achievements or activities, it is always a joy to celebrate their experiences, gifts, and successes more widely within our community. Annette Du Randt St Bede's Housemistress
Year 11s having home-made waffles and Vienetta ice cream
House Mass
Our treats after Mass
Keep up to date:
Instagram
Facebook
St Bede's House, Ampleforth College
@stbedeshouseampleforth
A Short Week...
Exeat seems to have signified the start of Autumn. A change in season coincides with a change in energy, focus and effort. The school days remain packed and we do all we can at a house level to offer opportunities for reflection, peace and calmness. House mass and Deaneries this week have offered such an opportunity for the boys and sitting in on the Year 9 discussions during Lectio was thoroughly enjoyable and the boys very impressive too. House Council met this week and the Pupil Voice remains a main part of the house. The boys have a vested interest in the running of the house and their opinions are hugely important. Watch this space for upcoming changes, although not all requests are attainable! Year 13 Parents weekend this week promises to be a good one and I look forward to catching up with parents. The Year 13 will certainly have a clearer picture of what is needed for the rest of the year by the start of next week!
1st XV v RGS
1st XV v RGS
Autumnal Days...
U14/U15 Rugby
U14/U15 Rugby
Music Scholar Recital
Music Scholar Recital
Pupdate - Hadrian's Wall
Pupdate - Sycamore Gap
Pupdate - Spot the Puppy!
Message from the Housemaster
Having only returned from Exeat on Monday night, this Newsletter will be slightly shorter than usual. However, we have had a number of highlights in our house life this week, such as birthdays, cooking lessons, some creativity and the all important house council elections. This weekend, we are looking forward to welcoming our Year 13 parents to the valley for their last parents' conference and we will begin to rehearse for the inter house music competition. We have a title to defend!
Food, glorious food
It is moments like this when you know that the house community is as close as it can be. Gus (Year 9) wanted to learn how to cook a pasta dish. Elliot (Year 13) was at hand to patiently teach him. I am happy to report that the dish was very edible!
Food, glorious food
Elliot: "And now, before you put the pasta in, you need to season the water with salt". Gus: "Why would I season water? It's only water!" Some logic there...
Food, glorious food
Some of our Year 9s patiently waiting in the ref queue for their chilli.
Food, glorious food
While our Year 10s have already been served.I like the greens on Dom's plate.
Food, glorious food
Hurry up, guys!Freddie is almost finished.
Happy birthday
On Monday, Hector celebrated his 16th birthday. Birthday breakfast in Paris, birthday dinner in Ampleforth. C'est la vie!
Happy birthday
Happy Hector.
Creativity
It is encouraging to see that our new Creativity Room is being used. Life without phones is clearly bringing out the best in the boys.
Creativity
Creativity
Creativity
Entertainment
Teddy and Jonty practising their song for the Year 13 parents' conference concert on Saturday. What a treat.
Student Voice
The new democratically elected house council of 2025/26.
Luke (10), Richard (13), Nolan (12), Gus (9), Dom (10), Benny (Head of House), Ambrose (Deputy HoH)
Last but not least
The new dresser in the Study.Another excellent find in one of Thirsk's charity shops. Crafted by an apprentice of the Mouseman, aka Robert Thompson. Absolute bargain!
Follow us on social media for updates!
A message from Mr Viesel
Wine & Wisdom
On Thursday, after evening prayers, half the Y12 and Y13 boys took part in the first of our "Wine & Wisdom" seminars (the other boys will have their first session next week). Paul (Y13) spoke thoughtfully and without notes about a wide variety of counter-insurgency efforts, from Julius Caesar to contemporary conflicts by way of Vietnam and Colombia. The key question he addressed was why such counter-insurgencies fail so frequently. I was particularly pleased by the ways in which the boys raised interesting questions subsequently, with Seb (Y13) first off the bat, and discussion continuing after staff had left to get the younger years ready for bed.
Hugh's Music
It's been a busy week in the musical life of St Hugh's with the scholars' concert, rehearsals ahead of House Singing and then the joint Hugh's-Margaret's concert... Thanks go to Tom (Y13) for his solo performance and Edward (Y11) for his monologue from Journey's End for the joint concert, as well as to Mr Pallister for leading rehearsals and to Dawn and Miss Graham for the enthusiastic dancing...
St Hugh's House Recital
Great results in Cross Country
Hugh's were well-represented in the cross-country event at Scarborough this week, racing against hundreds of students from across the district. Well done to Cullen, who came fourth in the boys' race (and who was so fast that we didn't get a photo of him!) and to Jacq, who came tenth!
Back in the swing of things...
And then we've had a busy week with a birthday, a feast after House Mass, pancakes in break, successes in rugby, golf and football in the evenings...!
Hugh's boys doing their bit in the week's rugby matches
Message from Ms Paterson
Dear Parents, Life in the House continues to be full and joyful, and we are delighted to share with you some of the recent highlights. After the excitement of raft race and tug-of-war weekends, the exeat was very well received and provided a much-needed pause for the girls to rest, reflect, and return with renewed energy. It is in moments like these that we are reminded of the Benedictine value of balance, recognising the importance of both hard work and quiet rest in shaping a healthy rhythm of life. Our Benedictine tradition calls us to seek wisdom, community, and stewardship, and it has been uplifting to see these values lived out so naturally in House life. The girls support one another in their studies, they share laughter and encouragement during rehearsals, and they show daily kindness in ways both big and small. In the past weeks, this has been especially evident through the Academic Scholars’ Programme, where so many of our girls took part with enthusiasm. Their love of learning and curiosity reflects not only their own dedication but also their willingness to use their gifts for the good of the whole community. The House has also been ringing with music as rehearsals for the upcoming House Music Recital are in full swing. Practices have been busy and lively, but the effort and joy the girls bring to their preparations are a real testimony to the Benedictine spirit of discipline joined with delight. We are greatly looking forward to sharing in their performance, which promises to be both spirited and memorable. As always, the social life of the House continues to strengthen the bonds of friendship that lie at the heart of St Margaret’s. We are looking forward to a variety of social plans this coming weekend, which will give the girls further opportunities to rest together, laugh together, and deepen the sense of fellowship that makes our House feel like a family. Finally, we are eagerly anticipating Year 13 Parents’ Weekend. This will be a special moment to welcome families into the centre of House life, to celebrate all that the girls have achieved, and to affirm the community that continues to support them as they approach the final stages of their school journey. Thank you, as always, for your support and encouragement. St Margaret’s continues to flourish as a community where the Benedictine values of balance, community, stewardship, and wisdom are lived out in daily life, and it is a privilege to walk this path alongside our girls. With warm regards, Rebecca
Musical Scholars' Recital
Well done to Sofia (Y12) and Anina (Y13) for their wonderful performances.
House Recital
Happy Birthday Elsie & Thea!
Junior House Newsletter 26/9/25
See what our Junior House has been up to this week...
Start!
Message from the Housemaster
It's been a truly fantastic first week back after Exeat, and Junior House has hit the ground running! The sound of laughter and learning has filled the corridors as we quickly settled back into our routine. We kicked off the week with an early start for a brilliant Geography field trip to Ingleborough Caves. The pupils were utterly fascinated exploring the subterranean world, and it was a great opportunity to connect what we learn in the classroom with the real world. Back in the House, we've had a new, exciting addition: a pool table! It's already proving to be a fantastic new social hub for friendly matches and a great way to wind down. Meanwhile, our budding scientists have been tackling some more exciting tasks in the Science Challenge, pushing their problem-solving skills to the limit. With all this energy, we're now looking forward to an exciting weekend ahead with lots of activities planned. It’s certainly a great time to be in Junior House!
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Science Challenege
This week's Science Challenge saw teams design and race balloon-powered cars. The task demanded ingenuity and a strong grasp of physics to propel vehicles using only escaping air. Pupils showed great teamwork and engineering ideas, using materials like cardboard and straws to optimize their designs. After exciting test runs, one team clearly came out on top! Their efficient, low-friction design demonstrated the best energy transfer, travelling the furthest distance. Well done to all for their scientific effort!
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Pool Table
We're delighted to announce the fantastic new addition to Junior House: a pool table! A huge thanks goes to Matron and Ella, who, with some appreciated muscle from a couple of students, managed the great construction and assembly. It was a proper team effort to get it up and running. The new table is already proving to be incredibly popular, quickly becoming a new social hub. The sound of clacking balls and friendly competition is now a regular feature in the evenings, offering a brilliant new way for the pupils to relax and socialise!
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Pool Table
We're delighted to announce the fantastic new addition to Junior House: a pool table! A huge thanks goes to Matron and Ella, who, with some appreciated muscle from a couple of students, managed the great construction and assembly. It was a proper team effort to get it up and running. The new table is already proving to be incredibly popular, quickly becoming a new social hub. The sound of clacking balls and friendly competition is now a regular feature in the evenings, offering a brilliant new way for the pupils to relax and socialise!
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Upcoming Events
Saturday U13 A and B Hockey vs Newcastle RGS (Away) - 12pm Push Back 4.30pm Return Evening Activities Boys and Girls Night in House Sunday Birthday Party in Ampleforth Village Hall 3-5pm
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Ampleforth Society
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