The News 6 March 2026
College
St Bede's
St DO's
St Aidan's
St CT's
Junior House
St Margaret's
St Hugh's
St John's
Message from the Headmaster
I want to start this newsletter with Pope Leo's words regarding the Middle East at the moment: Today we lift up our prayer for peace in the world, asking that nations renounce weapons and choose the path of dialogue and diplomacy. We have parents based in countries affected or who have family members affected, and our community holds everyone in prayer. This evening our pupils had the opportunity to listen to a fascinating talk on 'Making Sense of the Middle East: Between Protest and Conflict' which gave valuable insight into the tragic events unfurling. Many thanks to Dr Rory McCarthy, Associate Professor in Politics and Islam at Durham University. Our U6th pupils have finished their trial examinations and are now receiving clear and specific feedback on how to improve. There is still time for progress and we will do all we can to support them.
It was lovely to welcome over 30 pupils this evening who would like to join our Sixth Form in September. This evening they are enjoying a social with Year 11 and all will experience taster lessons tomorrow morning to help finalise subject choices for next academic year.
Some of our pupils and staff are lucky enough to be in Versailles at the moment, making the most of a French exchange with a school I visited last year.
The CCF will be sprucing themselves up tomorrow for the Nairac dinner where they will be joined by dignitaries from the armed forces. This follows the celebratory Shoot and Cross-country dinners last weekend and the Theatre dinner next weekend. These co-curricular aspects of life at Ampleforth are very important and allow growth and discovery outside of the classroom.
I wish all pupils representing the College in Hockey against RGS Newcastle and in Netball and Football against Giggleswick the best of luck! Best wishes, Jon
Our First Lacrosse Fixture since 2015!
On Wednesday, Ampleforth played its first competitive lacrosse fixture since 2015, travelling to face Harrogate Ladies’ College - fittingly the same team we last played a decade ago. The team gathered on Theatre Square at 12.30pm before setting off for Harrogate, where they were delighted to receive a visit from Ampleforth’s former lacrosse coach, Mr John Devitt (now Deputy Head Academic & Director of Studies), who stopped by to wish the players the very best of luck. Despite facing a strong side who will be competing at the National Finals this weekend, the Ampleforth girls performed outstandingly well. The match finished 10–4 to Harrogate, but the team showed great determination and promise, gaining valuable experience as they re-establish lacrosse at the College. The players now look ahead to their next fixture against Moreton Hall on Saturday 14 March.
Will Gibson (D20) Returns to Ampleforth
Actor and Old Amplefordian Will Gibson (D20) returned to Ampleforth to share his experience of working in the profession. He has enjoyed success with Saltburn, I Heard That, and Gulliver's Travels.
From training and auditions to perseverance and performance, Will offered an honest and inspiring insight into the realities of the industry, along with plenty of practical advice for aspiring actors.
We are always proud to see Old Amplefordians giving back to the College community.
The Schola Cantorum visit Ripon Cathedral
As part of a long-standing tradition, held every two years, the Schola visited Ripon Cathedral – a site of Christian worship for over 1,350 years – to sing Choral Evensong in this magnificent and historic setting. The Schola distinguished themselves in their rendition of Anglican chant, led by Dr Ronny Krippner, Director of Music at the Cathedral. The service also featured Stanford’s Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis and Loosemore’s O Lord, Increase Our Faith, both conducted by Edward Seymour.
For many of our singers, this was a new and different style, and they rose to the challenge with confidence and musical maturity. Well done to all.
Senior Musicians Recital Celebrating Female Composers
Ahead of International Women's Day, our musicians gathered in the Performing Arts Centre for a recital celebrating the work of female composers.
The programme spanned eras and genres, from Luise Adolpha Le Beau, who had the foresight to entrust her works to a library in Berlin to ensure they would be preserved, to Elizabeth Poston, the English composer reputed to have also served as a secret agent during the Second World War.
It was an inspiring evening of music, offering our audience the chance to discover and celebrate the creativity and legacy of female composers.
Equestrian Team in Northallerton
The half-term break didn’t slow down our Equestrian team, with riders competing at Northallerton Equestrian Centre in the NSEA Eventers Challenge and Jumping with Style qualifiers.
It was a special outing for the team, with both Will and Mary making their debuts for Ampleforth. Olivia delivered an outstanding performance, finishing 3rd in the 90cm Eventers Challenge and Jumping with Style class, qualifying for the Championships at Hickstead and Addington. She also secured 3rd place in the 80cm Jumping with Style class, earning further Championship qualification at Addington. Congratulations to all our riders on a fantastic day of competition - we look forward to cheering you on at the Championships.
Message from Mrs Dent
It's perhaps fitting that this beautiful rainbow put in an appearance behind St Aidan's at the end of A level trial exam week. When we see a rainbow, we are reminded that difficult weather can give way to something unexpectedly striking. In much the same way, the commitment the girls show in the coming weeks will turn pressure into progress and preparation into achievement. They enjoyed a celebration with cheese and nibbles on Wednesday night before now locking in again to make the most of the remaining weeks of teaching this side of the Easter break. As we head towards the weekend, Year 11 are looking forward to hosting prospective students on their taster stays ahead of experiencing taster lessons for subjects they might be interested in taking in the Sixth Form. Year 9 are heading off to the bowling alley for their social and a number of the girls will be attending the CCF Nairac Dinner. Congratuations to Year 12s Lily, Coco, Aggie, Betty, Penny, Celia, Victoria and Mimi, who have all been selected at Probationary Monitors. They have already begun a process of training and assessment in student leadership, which will inform later decisions on Monitor positions for next acadmic year. There's much to pack into this short half term, with the general message being one of 'keeping going and striving towards our goals'. We've been helped along in our quest this week by some beautiful blue sky days, sunshine and the emergence of the first daffodils.
Ceri Dent, Housemistress St Aidan's House
Celebrating Women Composers
It was a real treat to hear Lily, Emilia, Miranda, Victoria, Gabrielle, Sophie and Emma all perform in Wednesday evening's recital celebrating women composers ahead of International Women's Day this coming Sunday. The repertoire spanned eras and genres; from Luise Adolpha Le Beau who had the foresight to entrust her music to a library in Berlin for posterity, to Elizabeth Poston who was reputed to have also been a secret agent! Such talent in the house!
In other news.....
Year 9 loved hosting their Year Group on Saturday night for social of pizza and good times around the firepit - many marshmallows were consumed!
The candle tin has been busy this week, with three Birthday's celebrated. Happy Birthday to Willa (Yr9), and Martha and Katie, who have both turned 18 in recent days Year 9 enjoyed hosting their peers last Saturday evening - good times with Pizza, the firepit and truck-loads of marshmallows!
Year 10 Netball against St Peter's
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.
Our girls ready for Saturday Night Socials before half term
Time spent together saying good bye to Leonie and Nacha as they return home
Last EAL lesson with our very own Nacha - each person had brought in something they wanted to share - Nacha had gone all out to bake biscuits and brownies for us. Michelin star.
Karoke Time in the study
Some of our girls had the opportunity to sing in the Schola Choir at Ripon Cathedral
Great to see our two Flora's and Celina being part of the Recital Celebrating Female Composers
Meg and Henrietta representing our Senior 1st Team in Lacrosse this week.
SAVE THE DATE: St Bede's House Punch
Monday 23rd March 2026
Reminder:
All Year 9 and Year 10 must have a School Bag with them during the day.
March Dates for the diary:
Saturday 7: Y11 - Sixth Form Taster Lessons (morning) Thursday 12: Y12 Parents Day Retreat Friday 13: Higher Education & Careers Conference - Y12 parents invited Saturday 14: Y12 Parents Day
Dates for March 2026
Saturday 21: St John Passion, 7.30pm in the Abbey Church. Ticket details to follow: Join the Schola Cantorum and Ampleforth Choral Society, supported by the Ampleforth Chamber Orchestra and joined by stunning soloists, for an evening filled with beautiful music and spiritual reflection in the serene surroundings of Ampleforth Abbey.
End of Term
End of Term: Those collected by parents/guardians or on escorted School Travel may leave from 5pm on Thursday 26 March 2026 Friday 27 March: Departures between 7-9.30am including School Travel services.
Public Exams this summer: Please keep 24 June free Students taking public exams this year are required to keep 24 June 2026 free as a contingency day in case there are any major national or local disruptions which force exams to be postponed.
Keep up to date:
Please follow our Social Media.
Instagram
Facebook
St Bede's House, Ampleforth College
@stbedeshouseampleforth
Springing into the new half term...
The return from half term has been a busy one, filled with action on many fronts. Year 13 trials, sports fixtures, socials and academic lessons. The boys have been on great form. The start of Lent has given the boys a reason to pause for thought and it was lovely to see them consider lenten promises during the first Deanery session of the year. As the days are getting longer and warmer, the feel of the valley changes and this definitely lifts the spirits of the boys too. I am sure that they will continue to thrive and progress at pace this half term. With Y12 parents weekend on the horizon, I look forward to seeing many of you in the weeks to come.
SHAC Rock
SHAC Rock
George dressed appropriately for SHAC Rock!
Football against Hughs
Football against Hughs
Kofi read well in Assembly
Recital celebrating female composers
Recital celebrating female composers
Deli Night!
Deli Night
Hockey versus Ashville
Hockey versus Ashville
Hockey versus Ashville
Chinese Feast
Chinese Feast
Rollo read well in Mass
House = Pot of Gold?
Happy Birthday GMS!
Ampleforth Gardening club help
A lovely joint Mass with Margarets
Pizza and rugby - what's not to like?
A beautiful evening sunset
An impromptu music lesson...
Pupdate - exploring
Pupdate - Waiting for the boys & happy they're here!
Follow us on social media for updates!
Message from the Housemaster
Tempus fugit, indeed. It is hard to believe that we have already been back for over a week.The Upper Sixth sat their second round of Mock examinations with mixed results but an improvement in most cases which is promising. On Friday evening, we will be welcoming seven prospective Lower Sixth students for their taster stay in DO's and participation in Saturday morning's taster lessons together with our "homegrown" Remove students. We are also looking forward to next weekend's Year 12 Parents Conference.
Food, glorious food
Wednesday morning break in DO's: Frankfurters galore! Wake up, Hector. No, it is not a dream...
Food, glorious food
One (almost) happy customer.
Hospitality
On Monday evening before the half term holidays, we invited the girls from St Margaret's to join in with our sung compline and subsequent house deli night. Both girls and boys were in good voice and made the event very special.
Hospitality
The seniors enjoyed a beer or a wine in the Study...
Hospitality
... while the juniors had a great time in the Common Room.
Hospitality
Oli trying to impress with his pool skills.
Hospitality
Hospitality
Hospitality
Who would have thought that Ambrose is so popular with the girls from St Margaret's.Must be his aftershave...
Hospitality
Benny showing off his Head of House Mass (what the Brits call a "Stein").
Food, glorious food
On Thursday last week, we celebrated Chinese New Year with a fantastic lunch cooked by our very own chefs. Everybody loved it!
Food, glorious food
Food, glorious food
Food, glorious food
Last Friday evening, the year 12 enjoyed some Currywurst and refreshments in the Study.
Happy Birthday, Ambrose
On Friday night, we celebrated Ambrose's 18th birthday (belated).
Happy Birthday, Ambrose
Happy Birthday, Ambrose
Saturday Social
On Saturday night, DO's hosted the year 10s. The theme was Saturday Night Fever.
Saturday Social
Culinary exploits
Another thing I really like about my boys is that they are open to new experiences. Here, we can see Paddy frying Polish pierogi (filled dumplings).
Culinary exploits
Looking rather pleased with himself and the outcome. The pierogi were delicious and are currently flying out of the tuck shop in the evening.
Sunday Mass
Dom and Harry shining their shoes before Mass.As one should.
Sunday Mass
As Holy Shacky Benny was at the Rugby 7s tournament, Ambrose was asked to stand in and be in charge. He did a stellar job!
Sunday Mass
As did Freddie, Bart and Eddie serving at the altar.
Sporting Success
Benny, Jonty, Richard and Oli representing the house as part of the Rugby 7s tournament. Give us a smile, Benny!
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Tuesday Deanery
Our Tuesday deanery in action. Harry, Dom and Gus are setting up the breakfast at 7am having been woken up by Deanery Leader Caspar.
Tuesday Deanery
We have a selection of four juices: apple, orange, cranberry and pineapple.
Tuesday Deanery
Year 12 Jakub is in charge of the fried eggs.
Sporting Success
On Wednesday, our boys played impressively in the Hockey match against Ashville. One of the most versatile athletes in DO's: Charles (year 13).
Sporting Success
Probably and arguably the best hockey player we have in the house: Orlando (year 10).
Sporting Success
Incredibly committed and most improved: Alvaro (year 10).
Sporting Success
Alvaro about to score.
Sporting Success
Reliable and powerful: Luke (year 11) and Justus (year 12).
Celebrating Women Composers
On Wednesday, our musicians performed a recital to celebrate women composers to mark International Women Day (Sunday, 8th March). Rebecca and Antonius formed part of the schola contribution.
Celebrating Women Composers
Celebrating Women Composers
Oliver impressed on the saxophone.
Last but not least #1
Finally, another trophy. Our junior hockey team won a decisice victory against the other boys' houses in Tuesday's inter house hockey competition. They won all their matches with at least 5 goals difference and simply wiped the floor with the other teams. Not necessarily a pretty image, but pretty accurate nonetheless.
Last but not least #2
Struggling with your Lenten promise to give up alcohol?We have a solution: The McFetrich family (Dom St Fetrich, O17) have set up a non-acoholic beer company. If you wish to find out more, please follow: https://nonnie.co.uk/
Welcome back
What a busy start to this half of term it has been. On the academic front, the Year 13s have been in the midst of mocks, while Year 11s are being kept busy with revision sessions as they prepare for their GCSEs. At the same time, our other year groups are working towards their termly assessments and the Year 9s are enjoying the challenge of their independent research projects. The House had a bit of a makeover over the half-term holidays, with the adddition of more pictures along the galleries and the kitchen freshly painted and looking a little more 'minimal'. As the fabric of the house is being refreshed, it's been lovely to see more of the common areas coming into use, with the 'darts' room now used for, well, darts, and for playing a highly competitive game called 'Werewolf'! In other news, the Hugh's 'Inter' boys came second in the Inter-House Hockey competition, despite the loss of some key players. The Seniors will be looking to build on their success next week. As always, please do get in touch if there is anything we can help with. My number is 01439 766755.
Dear Parents, I hope you all had a lovely half term. It has been wonderful to welcome the girls back and see the house full of energy again. Our Year 13s returned ready to demonstrate real hard work and grit as they completed their mock examinations. In true Benedictine spirit, they approached this challenge with determination and focus. Their commitment has been an excellent example to the younger girls in the house. Wednesday night Emily, Sofia, Anina and Kalina took part in a recital celebrating female composers, and we were very proud to see them perform so beautifully and represent the house so well. Some of our girls also participated in the first lacrosse match that Ampleforth has taken part in for many years. It was exciting to see the team back on the pitch and representing the school with enthusiasm. Finally, preparations are well underway for House Punch on Wednesday, which promises to be a fun and lively event for everyone involved. Warm regards, Rebecca
Message from Ms Paterson
Recital Celebrating Female Composers
Photos from SHAC Rock
Photos from SHAC Rock
Birthdays this week
Happy Birthday to Charlotte
Junior House Newsletter 06/03/26
See what our Junior House has been up to this week...
Start!
Housemasters message
Spring has certainly arrived in Junior House, and the change in weather has been impossible to miss this week. With such a short half term ahead of us, I have encouraged the children to make the most of every opportunity—both in and out of the classroom. I’m delighted to say that they have embraced this wholeheartedly. From assessments to clubs, from creative endeavours to the ever‑busy sports calendar, the enthusiasm has been infectious. As we head into what promises to be a jam‑packed weekend of fun and activity, it’s wonderful to see our pupils throwing themselves into everything with such energy and positivity.
Start!
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Back
Village shop 🍬
Max striked again at the village shop at the end of last half term with his ginormous bag of soda and sweets to last him throughout the rest of the half term. Meanwhile Aleksander, Bruno and Marie grabbed their sweets and drinks for the afternoon and to share with friends.
Start!
Next
Back
Netball 🏐
Start!
Next
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Hockey 🏑
Start!
Some pictures of the boys at their last match against Scarborough College. Swipe to see them
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Spring is coming
The EWs have been enjoying late nights on the astro playing football. With lots of the Spanish boys including Juan and Bertrand being undefeated, the lunch time and late night football challenges continue.
Start!
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Chilling in house
On Wednesday night Millicent and Oscar played a fun game of 'who is most likley to'. Juan, Lucas, Bertrand and many other students have also been using their free time to practice piano using the pianos around house. Whether it be practicing their exam pieces or teaching their friends how to play its been great hearing their progress.
Start!
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In the classroom
In tutorials this week the students created mind maps on "what does a good friend look like?" and "why is it important to get good sleep?". The students shared lots of great answers!
Start!
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World Book Day 📖📚
The 5th March was world book day. Students from Year 7 read The boy who harnessed the wind during lunch time with Mrs Thyne and Miss McKell while they enjoyed hot chocolate and sweets.
Start!
Next
Back
Student of the week
This week Abena has been selected as student of the week as she is an exemplary role model in EWs. Abena consistently gives 100% to her academics, sports and music commitments. Just this week Abena was selected to play in the netball U13 tournament at St Peter's and at the end of last week she was awarded player of the match against St Peter's.
Start!
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Upcoming Events
Bowling in York On Saturday night the boarders are going into York to play some bowling. It is sure to be a fun night out. York Trip This Sunday after mass the boarders are going to York to shop around and spend some time exploring the city. Chinese New Year Feast On Sunday night the EW boarders are going to get chinese takeaway in order to celebrate chinese new year. Yummy! Weekend Sports Fixtures Boys Hockey- The EWs boys are playing Ripon Grammar School this weekend at home. The match starts at 14:30. Good luck! Girls Netball- The EWs girls are playing Giggleswick school this weekend. It is an away match starting at 14:00. Good luck!
Start!
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Sports Fixtures Please follow this link to keep up to date with all our fixtures.
Password - Benedictine 1802
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The News 6 March 2026
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The News 6 March 2026
College
St Bede's
St DO's
St Aidan's
St CT's
Junior House
St Margaret's
St Hugh's
St John's
Message from the Headmaster
I want to start this newsletter with Pope Leo's words regarding the Middle East at the moment: Today we lift up our prayer for peace in the world, asking that nations renounce weapons and choose the path of dialogue and diplomacy. We have parents based in countries affected or who have family members affected, and our community holds everyone in prayer. This evening our pupils had the opportunity to listen to a fascinating talk on 'Making Sense of the Middle East: Between Protest and Conflict' which gave valuable insight into the tragic events unfurling. Many thanks to Dr Rory McCarthy, Associate Professor in Politics and Islam at Durham University. Our U6th pupils have finished their trial examinations and are now receiving clear and specific feedback on how to improve. There is still time for progress and we will do all we can to support them. It was lovely to welcome over 30 pupils this evening who would like to join our Sixth Form in September. This evening they are enjoying a social with Year 11 and all will experience taster lessons tomorrow morning to help finalise subject choices for next academic year. Some of our pupils and staff are lucky enough to be in Versailles at the moment, making the most of a French exchange with a school I visited last year. The CCF will be sprucing themselves up tomorrow for the Nairac dinner where they will be joined by dignitaries from the armed forces. This follows the celebratory Shoot and Cross-country dinners last weekend and the Theatre dinner next weekend. These co-curricular aspects of life at Ampleforth are very important and allow growth and discovery outside of the classroom. I wish all pupils representing the College in Hockey against RGS Newcastle and in Netball and Football against Giggleswick the best of luck! Best wishes, Jon
Our First Lacrosse Fixture since 2015!
On Wednesday, Ampleforth played its first competitive lacrosse fixture since 2015, travelling to face Harrogate Ladies’ College - fittingly the same team we last played a decade ago. The team gathered on Theatre Square at 12.30pm before setting off for Harrogate, where they were delighted to receive a visit from Ampleforth’s former lacrosse coach, Mr John Devitt (now Deputy Head Academic & Director of Studies), who stopped by to wish the players the very best of luck. Despite facing a strong side who will be competing at the National Finals this weekend, the Ampleforth girls performed outstandingly well. The match finished 10–4 to Harrogate, but the team showed great determination and promise, gaining valuable experience as they re-establish lacrosse at the College. The players now look ahead to their next fixture against Moreton Hall on Saturday 14 March.
Will Gibson (D20) Returns to Ampleforth
Actor and Old Amplefordian Will Gibson (D20) returned to Ampleforth to share his experience of working in the profession. He has enjoyed success with Saltburn, I Heard That, and Gulliver's Travels. From training and auditions to perseverance and performance, Will offered an honest and inspiring insight into the realities of the industry, along with plenty of practical advice for aspiring actors. We are always proud to see Old Amplefordians giving back to the College community.
The Schola Cantorum visit Ripon Cathedral
As part of a long-standing tradition, held every two years, the Schola visited Ripon Cathedral – a site of Christian worship for over 1,350 years – to sing Choral Evensong in this magnificent and historic setting. The Schola distinguished themselves in their rendition of Anglican chant, led by Dr Ronny Krippner, Director of Music at the Cathedral. The service also featured Stanford’s Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis and Loosemore’s O Lord, Increase Our Faith, both conducted by Edward Seymour. For many of our singers, this was a new and different style, and they rose to the challenge with confidence and musical maturity. Well done to all.
Senior Musicians Recital Celebrating Female Composers
Ahead of International Women's Day, our musicians gathered in the Performing Arts Centre for a recital celebrating the work of female composers. The programme spanned eras and genres, from Luise Adolpha Le Beau, who had the foresight to entrust her works to a library in Berlin to ensure they would be preserved, to Elizabeth Poston, the English composer reputed to have also served as a secret agent during the Second World War. It was an inspiring evening of music, offering our audience the chance to discover and celebrate the creativity and legacy of female composers.
Equestrian Team in Northallerton
The half-term break didn’t slow down our Equestrian team, with riders competing at Northallerton Equestrian Centre in the NSEA Eventers Challenge and Jumping with Style qualifiers. It was a special outing for the team, with both Will and Mary making their debuts for Ampleforth. Olivia delivered an outstanding performance, finishing 3rd in the 90cm Eventers Challenge and Jumping with Style class, qualifying for the Championships at Hickstead and Addington. She also secured 3rd place in the 80cm Jumping with Style class, earning further Championship qualification at Addington. Congratulations to all our riders on a fantastic day of competition - we look forward to cheering you on at the Championships.
Message from Mrs Dent
It's perhaps fitting that this beautiful rainbow put in an appearance behind St Aidan's at the end of A level trial exam week. When we see a rainbow, we are reminded that difficult weather can give way to something unexpectedly striking. In much the same way, the commitment the girls show in the coming weeks will turn pressure into progress and preparation into achievement. They enjoyed a celebration with cheese and nibbles on Wednesday night before now locking in again to make the most of the remaining weeks of teaching this side of the Easter break. As we head towards the weekend, Year 11 are looking forward to hosting prospective students on their taster stays ahead of experiencing taster lessons for subjects they might be interested in taking in the Sixth Form. Year 9 are heading off to the bowling alley for their social and a number of the girls will be attending the CCF Nairac Dinner. Congratuations to Year 12s Lily, Coco, Aggie, Betty, Penny, Celia, Victoria and Mimi, who have all been selected at Probationary Monitors. They have already begun a process of training and assessment in student leadership, which will inform later decisions on Monitor positions for next acadmic year. There's much to pack into this short half term, with the general message being one of 'keeping going and striving towards our goals'. We've been helped along in our quest this week by some beautiful blue sky days, sunshine and the emergence of the first daffodils.
Ceri Dent, Housemistress St Aidan's House
Celebrating Women Composers
It was a real treat to hear Lily, Emilia, Miranda, Victoria, Gabrielle, Sophie and Emma all perform in Wednesday evening's recital celebrating women composers ahead of International Women's Day this coming Sunday. The repertoire spanned eras and genres; from Luise Adolpha Le Beau who had the foresight to entrust her music to a library in Berlin for posterity, to Elizabeth Poston who was reputed to have also been a secret agent! Such talent in the house!
In other news.....
Year 9 loved hosting their Year Group on Saturday night for social of pizza and good times around the firepit - many marshmallows were consumed!
The candle tin has been busy this week, with three Birthday's celebrated. Happy Birthday to Willa (Yr9), and Martha and Katie, who have both turned 18 in recent days Year 9 enjoyed hosting their peers last Saturday evening - good times with Pizza, the firepit and truck-loads of marshmallows!
Year 10 Netball against St Peter's
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.
Our girls ready for Saturday Night Socials before half term
Time spent together saying good bye to Leonie and Nacha as they return home
Last EAL lesson with our very own Nacha - each person had brought in something they wanted to share - Nacha had gone all out to bake biscuits and brownies for us. Michelin star.
Karoke Time in the study
Some of our girls had the opportunity to sing in the Schola Choir at Ripon Cathedral
Great to see our two Flora's and Celina being part of the Recital Celebrating Female Composers
Meg and Henrietta representing our Senior 1st Team in Lacrosse this week.
SAVE THE DATE: St Bede's House Punch
Monday 23rd March 2026
Reminder:
All Year 9 and Year 10 must have a School Bag with them during the day.
March Dates for the diary:
Saturday 7: Y11 - Sixth Form Taster Lessons (morning) Thursday 12: Y12 Parents Day Retreat Friday 13: Higher Education & Careers Conference - Y12 parents invited Saturday 14: Y12 Parents Day
Dates for March 2026
Saturday 21: St John Passion, 7.30pm in the Abbey Church. Ticket details to follow: Join the Schola Cantorum and Ampleforth Choral Society, supported by the Ampleforth Chamber Orchestra and joined by stunning soloists, for an evening filled with beautiful music and spiritual reflection in the serene surroundings of Ampleforth Abbey.
End of Term
End of Term: Those collected by parents/guardians or on escorted School Travel may leave from 5pm on Thursday 26 March 2026 Friday 27 March: Departures between 7-9.30am including School Travel services.
Public Exams this summer: Please keep 24 June free Students taking public exams this year are required to keep 24 June 2026 free as a contingency day in case there are any major national or local disruptions which force exams to be postponed.
Keep up to date:
Please follow our Social Media.
Instagram
Facebook
St Bede's House, Ampleforth College
@stbedeshouseampleforth
Springing into the new half term...
The return from half term has been a busy one, filled with action on many fronts. Year 13 trials, sports fixtures, socials and academic lessons. The boys have been on great form. The start of Lent has given the boys a reason to pause for thought and it was lovely to see them consider lenten promises during the first Deanery session of the year. As the days are getting longer and warmer, the feel of the valley changes and this definitely lifts the spirits of the boys too. I am sure that they will continue to thrive and progress at pace this half term. With Y12 parents weekend on the horizon, I look forward to seeing many of you in the weeks to come.
SHAC Rock
SHAC Rock
George dressed appropriately for SHAC Rock!
Football against Hughs
Football against Hughs
Kofi read well in Assembly
Recital celebrating female composers
Recital celebrating female composers
Deli Night!
Deli Night
Hockey versus Ashville
Hockey versus Ashville
Hockey versus Ashville
Chinese Feast
Chinese Feast
Rollo read well in Mass
House = Pot of Gold?
Happy Birthday GMS!
Ampleforth Gardening club help
A lovely joint Mass with Margarets
Pizza and rugby - what's not to like?
A beautiful evening sunset
An impromptu music lesson...
Pupdate - exploring
Pupdate - Waiting for the boys & happy they're here!
Follow us on social media for updates!
Message from the Housemaster
Tempus fugit, indeed. It is hard to believe that we have already been back for over a week.The Upper Sixth sat their second round of Mock examinations with mixed results but an improvement in most cases which is promising. On Friday evening, we will be welcoming seven prospective Lower Sixth students for their taster stay in DO's and participation in Saturday morning's taster lessons together with our "homegrown" Remove students. We are also looking forward to next weekend's Year 12 Parents Conference.
Food, glorious food
Wednesday morning break in DO's: Frankfurters galore! Wake up, Hector. No, it is not a dream...
Food, glorious food
One (almost) happy customer.
Hospitality
On Monday evening before the half term holidays, we invited the girls from St Margaret's to join in with our sung compline and subsequent house deli night. Both girls and boys were in good voice and made the event very special.
Hospitality
The seniors enjoyed a beer or a wine in the Study...
Hospitality
... while the juniors had a great time in the Common Room.
Hospitality
Oli trying to impress with his pool skills.
Hospitality
Hospitality
Hospitality
Who would have thought that Ambrose is so popular with the girls from St Margaret's.Must be his aftershave...
Hospitality
Benny showing off his Head of House Mass (what the Brits call a "Stein").
Food, glorious food
On Thursday last week, we celebrated Chinese New Year with a fantastic lunch cooked by our very own chefs. Everybody loved it!
Food, glorious food
Food, glorious food
Food, glorious food
Last Friday evening, the year 12 enjoyed some Currywurst and refreshments in the Study.
Happy Birthday, Ambrose
On Friday night, we celebrated Ambrose's 18th birthday (belated).
Happy Birthday, Ambrose
Happy Birthday, Ambrose
Saturday Social
On Saturday night, DO's hosted the year 10s. The theme was Saturday Night Fever.
Saturday Social
Culinary exploits
Another thing I really like about my boys is that they are open to new experiences. Here, we can see Paddy frying Polish pierogi (filled dumplings).
Culinary exploits
Looking rather pleased with himself and the outcome. The pierogi were delicious and are currently flying out of the tuck shop in the evening.
Sunday Mass
Dom and Harry shining their shoes before Mass.As one should.
Sunday Mass
As Holy Shacky Benny was at the Rugby 7s tournament, Ambrose was asked to stand in and be in charge. He did a stellar job!
Sunday Mass
As did Freddie, Bart and Eddie serving at the altar.
Sporting Success
Benny, Jonty, Richard and Oli representing the house as part of the Rugby 7s tournament. Give us a smile, Benny!
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Tuesday Deanery
Our Tuesday deanery in action. Harry, Dom and Gus are setting up the breakfast at 7am having been woken up by Deanery Leader Caspar.
Tuesday Deanery
We have a selection of four juices: apple, orange, cranberry and pineapple.
Tuesday Deanery
Year 12 Jakub is in charge of the fried eggs.
Sporting Success
On Wednesday, our boys played impressively in the Hockey match against Ashville. One of the most versatile athletes in DO's: Charles (year 13).
Sporting Success
Probably and arguably the best hockey player we have in the house: Orlando (year 10).
Sporting Success
Incredibly committed and most improved: Alvaro (year 10).
Sporting Success
Alvaro about to score.
Sporting Success
Reliable and powerful: Luke (year 11) and Justus (year 12).
Celebrating Women Composers
On Wednesday, our musicians performed a recital to celebrate women composers to mark International Women Day (Sunday, 8th March). Rebecca and Antonius formed part of the schola contribution.
Celebrating Women Composers
Celebrating Women Composers
Oliver impressed on the saxophone.
Last but not least #1
Finally, another trophy. Our junior hockey team won a decisice victory against the other boys' houses in Tuesday's inter house hockey competition. They won all their matches with at least 5 goals difference and simply wiped the floor with the other teams. Not necessarily a pretty image, but pretty accurate nonetheless.
Last but not least #2
Struggling with your Lenten promise to give up alcohol?We have a solution: The McFetrich family (Dom St Fetrich, O17) have set up a non-acoholic beer company. If you wish to find out more, please follow: https://nonnie.co.uk/
Welcome back
What a busy start to this half of term it has been. On the academic front, the Year 13s have been in the midst of mocks, while Year 11s are being kept busy with revision sessions as they prepare for their GCSEs. At the same time, our other year groups are working towards their termly assessments and the Year 9s are enjoying the challenge of their independent research projects. The House had a bit of a makeover over the half-term holidays, with the adddition of more pictures along the galleries and the kitchen freshly painted and looking a little more 'minimal'. As the fabric of the house is being refreshed, it's been lovely to see more of the common areas coming into use, with the 'darts' room now used for, well, darts, and for playing a highly competitive game called 'Werewolf'! In other news, the Hugh's 'Inter' boys came second in the Inter-House Hockey competition, despite the loss of some key players. The Seniors will be looking to build on their success next week. As always, please do get in touch if there is anything we can help with. My number is 01439 766755.
Dear Parents, I hope you all had a lovely half term. It has been wonderful to welcome the girls back and see the house full of energy again. Our Year 13s returned ready to demonstrate real hard work and grit as they completed their mock examinations. In true Benedictine spirit, they approached this challenge with determination and focus. Their commitment has been an excellent example to the younger girls in the house. Wednesday night Emily, Sofia, Anina and Kalina took part in a recital celebrating female composers, and we were very proud to see them perform so beautifully and represent the house so well. Some of our girls also participated in the first lacrosse match that Ampleforth has taken part in for many years. It was exciting to see the team back on the pitch and representing the school with enthusiasm. Finally, preparations are well underway for House Punch on Wednesday, which promises to be a fun and lively event for everyone involved. Warm regards, Rebecca
Message from Ms Paterson
Recital Celebrating Female Composers
Photos from SHAC Rock
Photos from SHAC Rock
Birthdays this week
Happy Birthday to Charlotte
Junior House Newsletter 06/03/26
See what our Junior House has been up to this week...
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Housemasters message
Spring has certainly arrived in Junior House, and the change in weather has been impossible to miss this week. With such a short half term ahead of us, I have encouraged the children to make the most of every opportunity—both in and out of the classroom. I’m delighted to say that they have embraced this wholeheartedly. From assessments to clubs, from creative endeavours to the ever‑busy sports calendar, the enthusiasm has been infectious. As we head into what promises to be a jam‑packed weekend of fun and activity, it’s wonderful to see our pupils throwing themselves into everything with such energy and positivity.
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Village shop 🍬
Max striked again at the village shop at the end of last half term with his ginormous bag of soda and sweets to last him throughout the rest of the half term. Meanwhile Aleksander, Bruno and Marie grabbed their sweets and drinks for the afternoon and to share with friends.
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Netball 🏐
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Hockey 🏑
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Some pictures of the boys at their last match against Scarborough College. Swipe to see them
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Spring is coming
The EWs have been enjoying late nights on the astro playing football. With lots of the Spanish boys including Juan and Bertrand being undefeated, the lunch time and late night football challenges continue.
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Chilling in house
On Wednesday night Millicent and Oscar played a fun game of 'who is most likley to'. Juan, Lucas, Bertrand and many other students have also been using their free time to practice piano using the pianos around house. Whether it be practicing their exam pieces or teaching their friends how to play its been great hearing their progress.
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In the classroom
In tutorials this week the students created mind maps on "what does a good friend look like?" and "why is it important to get good sleep?". The students shared lots of great answers!
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World Book Day 📖📚
The 5th March was world book day. Students from Year 7 read The boy who harnessed the wind during lunch time with Mrs Thyne and Miss McKell while they enjoyed hot chocolate and sweets.
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Student of the week
This week Abena has been selected as student of the week as she is an exemplary role model in EWs. Abena consistently gives 100% to her academics, sports and music commitments. Just this week Abena was selected to play in the netball U13 tournament at St Peter's and at the end of last week she was awarded player of the match against St Peter's.
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Upcoming Events
Bowling in York On Saturday night the boarders are going into York to play some bowling. It is sure to be a fun night out. York Trip This Sunday after mass the boarders are going to York to shop around and spend some time exploring the city. Chinese New Year Feast On Sunday night the EW boarders are going to get chinese takeaway in order to celebrate chinese new year. Yummy! Weekend Sports Fixtures Boys Hockey- The EWs boys are playing Ripon Grammar School this weekend at home. The match starts at 14:30. Good luck! Girls Netball- The EWs girls are playing Giggleswick school this weekend. It is an away match starting at 14:00. Good luck!
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Sports Fixtures Please follow this link to keep up to date with all our fixtures.
Password - Benedictine 1802
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