The News 13 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
Dear Parents I write at the end of an exciting day of careers activities with the whole school off timetable:
- Y7/8 were designing and marketing breakfast cereals in the style of The Apprentice
- Y9 enjoyed a puzzle day and final presentations of their Prize Research projects. As part of their GCSE options process, they also had sessions from Heads of Department in subjects available at GCSE they haven't studied previously
- Y10 also took part in the puzzle day and had a workshop on core study skills with a particular focus on revision techniques in preparation for their examinations after the Easter holidays
- Y11 attended seminars at the Higher Education Conference in the morning and had a talk in the afternoon on Sixth Form option choices.
- The Higher Education Conference is particularly targeted at M6th (Y12) pupils. They met delegates from universities from around the world, discussed vocations, learnt more about apprenticeships and also the realities of the world of work, and begin to plan gap years
- Our U6th (Y13) pupils had an important study day, with a lot of set work to get through, while many also gave service to the school by supporting the smooth running of the Higher Education Conference
This week's assembly was focused on Junior House. Mr Slingsby, Head of Junior House, talked about the importance of taking pride in the small everyday actions that shape life. Kiki and Toby, Junior House pupils, spoke brilliantly in front of the whole school and we were all proud of them. Our Junior House is a special place and gives pupils a brilliant start to their Ampleforth education. For any parents interested we are running a bespoke Junior House Open Morning on Saturday 21 March.
Message from the Headmaster
Our pupils gave very strong performances in the Ampleforth VIIs and annual Netball competitions on Wednesday. The valley was full with boys and girls from schools across the North of England, all of whom enjoyed a super day of sport. Henry Marshall, Head of St Michael’s prep school in Jersey, came to visit and enjoyed watching his old pupil Peter (13CT) playing for the first VII. We also hosted our second annual Pastoral Care Conference on the theme ‘Flourishing in the Modern World’. An array of excellent guest speakers spoke about the challenges and benefits of technology, the rise of anxiety, and how to create wellbeing. We welcomed two illustrious educationalists as keynote speakers: Peter Green, our former second Master and current Principal of Gordonstoun, and Mary Breen, long-serving former Headmistress of St Mary's Ascot. We were also fortunate to have one of our parents, Becky Foljambe, educating the audience on smartphones and their safety for children under 16. On Sunday, we are fortunate to have another parent, Piers Tempest, who is also an OA, coming to speak to our U6th pupils in the final Headmaster's Lecture of the year. He will speak about I Swear, the BAFTA award winning film he produced (and the pupils will watch), based on the real story of John Davidson and his life with Tourette's Syndrome.
I look forward to seeing Y12 parents tomorrow for Parents Day; please remember that you are most welcome to join me for coffee in my study from 9.15am to start the day. I must add that tomorrow the Maths department will celebrate Pi day (please note tomorrow's date!) so please join us in challenging yourself to recite as much of Pi as you can! Best wishes,
Jon
Nairac Dinner
The CCF enjoyed a fantastic evening last Saturday at their annual Nairac Dinner. Named after OA Captain Robert Nairac GC (E66) in recognition of his military service, this is a wonderful celebration of the achievements of the cadets and of the contingent 's long and fulsome contribution to enriching and developing Amplefordians.
It is also an opportunity for serving alumni to return to the College, share stories with the cadets, and help foster a strong sense of connection to community, our rich military heritage and culture of service. This year we were delighted to welcome back as Guest of Honour, Lt Col Will Tulloch (E03), CO 1st Battalion, Scots Guards, who delivered a brilliant speech to a rapt audience of cadets.
The valued support of those who contribute to the success of the CCF programme was also recognised and amongst the guests there were representatives from the Cadet Training Team, 2 Infantry Training Battalion, the Queen’s Own Yeomanry and the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association.
Ampleforth Sevens Rugby Tournament
The Ampleforth Rugby Sevens Invitational once again marked a highlight of the schools’ Sevens calendar, welcoming visiting teams to the beautiful Ampleforth Valley for a day of competitive and high-quality rugby. Now in its 58th year, the tournament continues to bring together U15 and U18 sides in a celebration of sport, teamwork and sportsmanship. This year’s tournament saw strong performances from Ampleforth teams, with the 1st VII reaching the Cup Semi-Final, the 2nd VII progressing to the Plate Semi-Final, and the U15 side advancing to the Cup Quarter-Finals. The College thanks all staff, officials, visiting schools and supporters who contributed to a successful day, and congratulates the players on the excellent standard of rugby and sportsmanship throughout. Ampleforth now looks ahead to the next round of Sevens fixtures at Dame Allan’s School.
Chloe (13M) takes on the Lyke Wake Run for Charity
Chloe (13M) completed an incredible feat on Sunday (appropriately International Women's Day), running the 65km Lyke Wake Walk across the N Yorkshire Moors in 11 hours 30 minutes in aid of charity. A challenging walk at the best of times, in many places the ancient coffin route doesn't follow any tracks or paths so they were sloshing through bogs, clambering up rocks, and picking their way down slippery slabs of stone, while enduring relentless fog and drizzle. Chloe took on this challenge to raise money for the Pahar Trust, a charity that manages the building and maintenance of schools in rural Nepal, where flooding and earthquakes make living conditions difficult. Our next expedition sets off in October and, although Chloe is not going, she wanted to support it. She has hugely impressed us all with her stamina and determination and her finishing comment "10km seems like nothing now" shows that if you can overcome big challenges, then little ones matter less!
Theo Carter in the National Youth Musical Theatre Company
Many congratulations to Theo (10J) who has been accepted into the prestigious National Youth Musical Theatre Company. Theo's debut this summer will be in the cast of their new musical, The Ballad of Raggedy Alice by Robert Messik and Roy Raby. Break a leg Theo!
Rotary Technology Tournament
16 of our budding engineers travelled to the vast REME hangar at Catterick Garrison to compete in the annual Rotary Technology Tournament - a day full of innovation, teamwork and problem-solving.
Students from Years 8, 9, 10 and 12 tackled a series of increasingly complex challenges centred on designing and constructing moving structures. This put their creativity and engineering skills to the test in a competitive environment.
A standout performance came from Digby, Will, Betty and Josh, whose exceptionally rigid structure and impressive design secured them first place in their category - a fantastic achievement!
For our younger teams, the experience proved equally valuable, building confidence and technical understanding that will serve them well in future competitions.
Y12 Computer Science Students meet our Head of IT
Year 12 Computer Science students recently gained a fascinating insight into the digital infrastructure that keeps the College running, when Head of IT, Michal Karasinski, gave an in-depth talk on the implementation of our networking system. Students learnt more about how networking systems are designed, managed and secured in a real-world environment, before receiving a detailed tour of the College’s main server room, bringing classroom theory to life.
This was a great way for students to connect their academic learning with industry practice, equipping them with the knowledge, confidence and curiosity to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world.
Message from Mrs Dent
As I write, the college is a hive of activity, with the Higher Education Conference in full swing and each year group enjoying a bespoke day off their usual timetable for an enriching diet of talks and activities designed for their particular stage and needs. Year 13 students have been given the opportunity to immerse themselves in a full day in the Art studios in prearation for their final projects, or a day of private study to kick-start their final path towards the summer examinations. We've a busy weekend ahead as we look forward to the Year 12 Parents' Morning and a raft of activities on offer to students. The pictures here capture quieter moments last weekend when some us gathered around the kitchen table for a couple of hours to have a go at the paper craft of 'quilling'. Great company and conversation as well as creativity. As we head into the final two weeks of term, a reminder that at the end of this term we vacate all rooms entirely, both for a deep clean and because the house is used for the Easter Triduum. It's the perfect opportunity for a de-clutter and we ask please that all belongings are taken home, particularly as we have minimal storage space in the house. With all good wishes for the week ahead.
Ceri Dent, Housemistress St Aidan's House
Nairac Dinner
It was an honour for members of the CCF to be invited to annual Nairac Dinner last Saturday, particularly for Rebecca, who was able to accompany her OA brother James, returning to the college for this year's event.
In other news.....
Intriguing things were happening in the common room earlier this week, as Clover enlisted the house to help with her A level Art project-development process, emulating Antony Gormley's work 'field'. It was such fun to see blocks of clay transform into this motley bunch of characters. On Monday, Pia, Celia, Edie, Emma and Olive took up the chance of some 'speed training', a fantastic opportunity open to all students each Monday after school to help with their sporting agility. We're excited to see how it feeds into their netball and lacrosse games over the coming weeks
Year 9 loved hosting their Year Group on Saturday night for social of pizza and good times around the firepit - many marshmallows were consumed!
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 lovely Year 12's spending some quality time together with our Year 9 and Year 10 Girls this week.
Our lovely Year 12's spending some quality time together with our Year 9 and Year 10 Girls this week.
Our Year 11 and Year 12's hosting potential new students staying overnight with us in St Bede's ready for their 6th Form Taster lessons in the morning
Our Year 11, Year 12 & Year 13's hosting the potential new students at breakfast time
Friday afternoon activities are full and varied:
Friday afternoon activities are full and varied:
CCF Nairac Dinner on Saturday Evening
CCF Nairac Dinner on Saturday Evening
Senior Lacrosse Team photo this week. Hoping the actual Photographer got a better picture...
As we end the second week of Lent, we begin a series of Lenten 'Disconnect to Reconnect' days. During this Lenten period, these days are another opportunity to come together as a community and reconnect with each other in a meaningful way by disconnecting from screen and phone.
24 hours without our mobile phones and iPad's = Quality time together.
Next one on Wednesday 18th March
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:
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.
Monday 27th April - Friday 1st May with Saturday 2nd May if needed.
End of Year 10 Examinations:
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:
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St Bede's House, Ampleforth College
@stbedeshouseampleforth
A busy week...
This has been a busy week, ending with the Y12 parent weekend. A great Higher Education Conference Day has been enjoyed by all of the boys, with consideration of the future and life outside of the valley. Weekend socials have been a main stay of the term so far, with much to choose from and enjoy. There have been many trips out of the valley too and boys have enjoyed flying with CCF, French exchange trips, revision sessions on business and economics and rugby sevens tournaments. House life is vibrant and hopefully this weeks photographs will reflect that.
Dawid Mallan
Escapee
Friday afternoon DT activity
Impromptu maths session
Lectio
Pancakes
Nairac Dinner (CCF)
Nairac Dinner (CCF)
New friend!
Rotary Technical Tournament Winners
Rotary Technical Tournament Winners
Evenings in house
Pupdate
Pupdate
Follow us on social media for updates!
Message from the Housemaster
Another very busy week including the Sixth Form Options weekend, Nairac Dinner, Socials, Rotary Technology Tournament, Rugby 7s tournament, Disconnect to Connect Day and the Higher Education Conference as well as the year 12 Parents' Conference (today).
Message from the Housemaster
On Friday, we welcomed 7 Remove boys into DO's for a taster night and their participation in the Sixth Form Options Morning on Saturday. Our current year 11 and our Probationary Monitors did a great job looking after Peter, Alex, John, Charlie, Tommy, George and Wojciech.
Message from the Housemaster
After unpacking their bags, they went to a social in the Windmill and then mixed with our boys in the house.
Message from the Housemaster
They were staying in the currently unused first floor dormitory.
Message from the Housemaster
As it was Peter's 16th birthday, we ensured he received a party DO style.
Message from the Housemaster
They enjoyed Currywurst and a large chocolate birthday cake.
Message from the Housemaster
The birthday boy
Message from the Housemaster
As we are celebrating the centenary in both St Dunstan's and St Oswald's, we had the original house ties recreated. They now form part of our school dress.Here, Maks and Harry proudly donning the new ties
Happy Birthday
On Saturday, Rupert turned 15 and invited all his friends to a lovely dinner in the Fairfax.
Happy Birthday
No, he is not greedy. He just likes cake!
Happy Birthday
He certainly likes his new shirt which was a present from Harry! Stylish...
Nairac Dinner
Also on Saturday night, many members of our school community came together for the annual Nairac Dinner.In case you wonder why they are all looking up...
Nairac Dinner
... they were listening to our outstanding pipe band including our very own Bart.
Nairac Dinner
DO's were represented by Freddie F (not in picture), Paddy and Luke.
Nairac Dinner
Saturday Social
Instead of Windmill last Saturday, DO's stepped in and invited the Year 13s into our house.
Saturday Social
Ambrose entertained some guests in our Rock Room.
Saturday Social
Saturday Social
Saturday Social
The team: Mr Butler, Mrs Davison, Ms Lally
Saturday Social
When the juniors returned from their social, they were treated to pizza and a movie in the Study.
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Rotary Technology Tournament
A number of our boys took part in the Rotary Technology Tournament. Here, Oli with fellow Year 9s.
Rotary Technology Tournament
Our very own Joshua won first prize!
Rotary Technology Tournament
Well done to all, especially Oli, Alvaro, Harry and Joshua.
Sporting Success
On Wednesday, Ampleforth hosted the annual Rugby 7s tournament in the valley.
Sporting Success
Benny in action
Sporting Success
As always, leading from the front.
Sporting Success
And showing Peter where the touch line is.
Sporting Success
Oliver on his way to his first try.
Sporting Success
He makes it look very easy.
Sporting Success
Richard outrunning his opponent while being cheered on by our supporters.
Sporting Success
Jonty had a great afternoon for the Seconds
Sporting Success
quod erat demonstrandum
Sporting Success
Javier wants the ball.
Sporting Success
Freddy with lightening speed (must be the white socks...)
Sporting Success
Freddy's opponent about to be outstepped.
Sporting Success
Dom is unstoppable (in every sense of the word).
Sporting Success
Told you so
Sporting Success
Disconnect to connect
From Wednesday to Thursday, the school announced a tech free 24 hours as part of our Lenten promise to give someting up for Lent.The boys were delighted (not really) but the Common Room was filled with happy voices and the boys made good use of all the facilities without distraction. If it was down to me, this would be a daily occurrence.
Disconnect to connect
Thursday Lunch was declared "Simple Lunch" with soup, bread, cheese and some salad.
Disconnect to connect
Fair to say, it wasn't Juan's favourite lunch ...Fellow Hispanic Alvaro seemed to enjoy it though.
Disconnect to connect
The tuck shop was open in the evening and the boys could made up for their lighter lunch with steak and pasta galore (after supper)!
Tidy dorm, happy Mr S
Bart is busy tidying his area just before the morning room inspection. He has done a great job and has even started to display the many postcards he has been receiving on his notice board.
Last but not least #1
Ambrose paying full attention to the task ahead during his Friday afternoon activity. There really is no end to his talents.
Last but not least #2
'Twas the night before match day, and a very excited Gus could not wait for the big day to arrive (Rugby 7s tournament). They came 3rd overall out of 16 schools. Stellar achievement.
News from Hugh's
As you may have heard from your sons, there is an important, joyful bit of news from Hugh's this week. Dawn is expecting a baby boy in mid-July! We will all, of course, miss Dawn hugely while she is on maternity leave in the Autumn Term and into the Lent Term. I know she is going to find it difficult to switch off from what's going on at SHAC and she is already thinking about her KIT days... We are lucky to have appointed Penny Graham to cover Dawn's maternity leave. Penny has already worked with some of the Hugh's boys and is an experienced Matron who has most recently been working in CT's, where she has been very highly regarded.
Dawn will be working closely with Penny to ensure a thorough handover before the end of this academic year and hopes to meet you all at Exhibition. I am sure you will all join me in wishing Dawn, Phil and Ralph all the very best as they prepare to welcome the new addition to their family!
Nairac CCF dinner
Ampleforth 7s
Commitment on and off the field...
Rotary Technology Tournament Winners!
Message from Ms Paterson
Dear Parents, It’s been a fun-filled (and fairly loud) week in St Margaret’s, with plenty of laughter, entertainment and the usual excellent house spirit. The week began with Moragh bravely holding the fort on Sunday while we celebrated Olivia’s birthday always a good excuse for a bit of cake and celebration. Moragh also hosted supper with the Year 9s, which was great fun and full of the sort of enthusiasm and energy only Year 9s can provide. Mid-week brought the highlight of the week: House Punch. Chloe delivered an excellent speech, full of gratitude for her housemates and the house staff a lovely reminder of what makes the house such a great place to be. The entertainment that followed was immense. The Year 9s absolutely stole the show, winning the song competition with their St Margaret’s version of Uptown Funk (which may or may not now be stuck in everyone’s heads). Chloe also ran 67Km for the Pahar trust. An amazing feat of endurance for a worthwhile charity. We are very proud of her (if you would like to donate the bar code is in the photos!!) The Year 12s continued the long-standing tradition of the top-year video, producing a series of very funny sketches that proved two things: they are very creative… and they have clearly been paying close attention to house life over the years. We ended the week with the Higher Education Fayre, giving everyone a chance to think about life beyond St Margaret’s though judging by the enthusiasm at House Punch, nobody seems in a rush to leave just yet. This weekend there are plenty of socials planned, so we are expecting more laughter, questionable dance moves, and lots more house spirit. Warm regards, Rebecca
Lyke Wake Run Chloe Grace
Rotary Technology Tournament
Nairac Dinner
Y9 Sunday cooking with Moragh
Birthdays this week
Happy Birthday to Olivia
Junior House Newsletter 13/03/26
See what our Junior House has been up to this week...
Start!
Housemaster's message
After a busy and purposeful week, we rounded things off with a fun‑filled weekend: a brilliant trip to the bowling alley, shopping in York, and—by popular demand—a Chinese takeaway to finish the evening!
In school, our pupils have once again shown just how impressive they can be. Junior House took centre stage on Monday as Mr Slingsby, Kiki & Toby led assembly in front of the whole school, speaking with confidence, clarity, and real pride. Meanwhile, our Da Vinci Decathlon team has been working hard in preparation for next week’s competition, showing creativity, teamwork, and determination throughout their preparation sessions.
Start!
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Housemaster's message
And of course, it wouldn’t be a normal week here without a full calendar of sporting fixtures. From the pitches to the courts, our students represented Junior House with great spirit, teamwork, and commitment. All in all, a wonderfully full and uplifting week—exactly the sort of atmosphere that makes Junior House such a vibrant place to live and learn.
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Saturday Bowling 🎳
Last Saturday our boarders went to Hollywood Bowl in York. There they enjoyed playing a round of bowling with all their friends and played some arcade games. To top it all off Mr Slingsby came around with lemonades, cokes or slushies for everyone.
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Saturday Bowling🎳
Start!
Swipe through some more photos taken at Hollywood Bowl.
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Netball 🏐
Last week the girls played at Giggleswick. It was a long drive but well worth it. The girls played really well as a team and I am very proud of them. The U13As won 17-2.
Start!
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Sunday York Trip
Good purchases were made by all in York on Sunday. Alma bought an air hockey game which has been very popular this week in house, Juan brought some new shoes and Tony stocked up on snacks from Red Chilli.
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Chinese New Year 🥡
Start!
On Sunday night all the boarders shared and enjoyed some delicious chinese takeaway. Yummmmmy!
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Chilling in house
Alfie has been greeted with lots of smiles this week when he has come into house. On Sunday they had a challenge where they all sat in a circle in silence with Alfie in the middle to see who Alfie crawled to. However, Alfie had other plans and crawled around to each of them once and then went to Bea and Bertrand. Alfie then sat with Bertrand and Bruno for a film.
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Rotary Technology Tournament
Start!
This week students including Will Z, Aleksander, Sabine and Isabel participated in the rotary technology tournament with the senior students.
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In the classroom
This week in prep the year 8 students have been finishing their geography posters. Meanwhile the year 7s have been revising maths in the lead up to their test.
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HEC Day
EWs turned into The Apprentice Boardroom today as they took on challenges in house. In tutor groups they were tasked with creating their own cereal brand, considering nutrition, calculating production costs and filming an advert in order to pitch their product to the judging panel of Matron Kirsten, Miss Newbould, Mr Slingsby, Mrs Slingsby and Mr Ruane.
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HEC Day
Start!
More photos from HEC day!
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Students of the week
This week Toby and Kiki are selected for their exceptional speech in this weeks assembly at the last minute. Additionally, they both consistently help out in house and give 100% effort to their academics and sporting commitments. Watch their video on the Ampleforth College instagram!
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Upcoming Events
Game Night Boarders, get ready for an epic games night this Saturday. Bring your best strategy, your loudest laughs, and maybe a lucky snack! Sunday=Bonfire and Marshmallows This Sunday night the boarders are having a bonfire outside where they will toast (or burn) marshmallows to enjoy! 😋 Weekend Sports Fixtures Boys Hockey- The EWs boys have an away match at Silcoates School this weekend. They leave from theatre square at 8:00am. The match starts at 11:30am and they will return by 13:30pm. Good luck! Girls Netball- The EWs girls are playing Pocklington school this weekend. It is a home match starting at 14:00pm. Good luck!
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Sports Fixtures Please follow this link to keep up to date with all our fixtures.
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The News 13 March 2026
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Transcript
The News 13 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
Dear Parents I write at the end of an exciting day of careers activities with the whole school off timetable:
- Y7/8 were designing and marketing breakfast cereals in the style of The Apprentice
- Y9 enjoyed a puzzle day and final presentations of their Prize Research projects. As part of their GCSE options process, they also had sessions from Heads of Department in subjects available at GCSE they haven't studied previously
- Y10 also took part in the puzzle day and had a workshop on core study skills with a particular focus on revision techniques in preparation for their examinations after the Easter holidays
- Y11 attended seminars at the Higher Education Conference in the morning and had a talk in the afternoon on Sixth Form option choices.
- The Higher Education Conference is particularly targeted at M6th (Y12) pupils. They met delegates from universities from around the world, discussed vocations, learnt more about apprenticeships and also the realities of the world of work, and begin to plan gap years
- Our U6th (Y13) pupils had an important study day, with a lot of set work to get through, while many also gave service to the school by supporting the smooth running of the Higher Education Conference
This week's assembly was focused on Junior House. Mr Slingsby, Head of Junior House, talked about the importance of taking pride in the small everyday actions that shape life. Kiki and Toby, Junior House pupils, spoke brilliantly in front of the whole school and we were all proud of them. Our Junior House is a special place and gives pupils a brilliant start to their Ampleforth education. For any parents interested we are running a bespoke Junior House Open Morning on Saturday 21 March.Message from the Headmaster
Our pupils gave very strong performances in the Ampleforth VIIs and annual Netball competitions on Wednesday. The valley was full with boys and girls from schools across the North of England, all of whom enjoyed a super day of sport. Henry Marshall, Head of St Michael’s prep school in Jersey, came to visit and enjoyed watching his old pupil Peter (13CT) playing for the first VII. We also hosted our second annual Pastoral Care Conference on the theme ‘Flourishing in the Modern World’. An array of excellent guest speakers spoke about the challenges and benefits of technology, the rise of anxiety, and how to create wellbeing. We welcomed two illustrious educationalists as keynote speakers: Peter Green, our former second Master and current Principal of Gordonstoun, and Mary Breen, long-serving former Headmistress of St Mary's Ascot. We were also fortunate to have one of our parents, Becky Foljambe, educating the audience on smartphones and their safety for children under 16. On Sunday, we are fortunate to have another parent, Piers Tempest, who is also an OA, coming to speak to our U6th pupils in the final Headmaster's Lecture of the year. He will speak about I Swear, the BAFTA award winning film he produced (and the pupils will watch), based on the real story of John Davidson and his life with Tourette's Syndrome. I look forward to seeing Y12 parents tomorrow for Parents Day; please remember that you are most welcome to join me for coffee in my study from 9.15am to start the day. I must add that tomorrow the Maths department will celebrate Pi day (please note tomorrow's date!) so please join us in challenging yourself to recite as much of Pi as you can! Best wishes, Jon
Nairac Dinner
The CCF enjoyed a fantastic evening last Saturday at their annual Nairac Dinner. Named after OA Captain Robert Nairac GC (E66) in recognition of his military service, this is a wonderful celebration of the achievements of the cadets and of the contingent 's long and fulsome contribution to enriching and developing Amplefordians. It is also an opportunity for serving alumni to return to the College, share stories with the cadets, and help foster a strong sense of connection to community, our rich military heritage and culture of service. This year we were delighted to welcome back as Guest of Honour, Lt Col Will Tulloch (E03), CO 1st Battalion, Scots Guards, who delivered a brilliant speech to a rapt audience of cadets. The valued support of those who contribute to the success of the CCF programme was also recognised and amongst the guests there were representatives from the Cadet Training Team, 2 Infantry Training Battalion, the Queen’s Own Yeomanry and the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association.
Ampleforth Sevens Rugby Tournament
The Ampleforth Rugby Sevens Invitational once again marked a highlight of the schools’ Sevens calendar, welcoming visiting teams to the beautiful Ampleforth Valley for a day of competitive and high-quality rugby. Now in its 58th year, the tournament continues to bring together U15 and U18 sides in a celebration of sport, teamwork and sportsmanship. This year’s tournament saw strong performances from Ampleforth teams, with the 1st VII reaching the Cup Semi-Final, the 2nd VII progressing to the Plate Semi-Final, and the U15 side advancing to the Cup Quarter-Finals. The College thanks all staff, officials, visiting schools and supporters who contributed to a successful day, and congratulates the players on the excellent standard of rugby and sportsmanship throughout. Ampleforth now looks ahead to the next round of Sevens fixtures at Dame Allan’s School.
Chloe (13M) takes on the Lyke Wake Run for Charity
Chloe (13M) completed an incredible feat on Sunday (appropriately International Women's Day), running the 65km Lyke Wake Walk across the N Yorkshire Moors in 11 hours 30 minutes in aid of charity. A challenging walk at the best of times, in many places the ancient coffin route doesn't follow any tracks or paths so they were sloshing through bogs, clambering up rocks, and picking their way down slippery slabs of stone, while enduring relentless fog and drizzle. Chloe took on this challenge to raise money for the Pahar Trust, a charity that manages the building and maintenance of schools in rural Nepal, where flooding and earthquakes make living conditions difficult. Our next expedition sets off in October and, although Chloe is not going, she wanted to support it. She has hugely impressed us all with her stamina and determination and her finishing comment "10km seems like nothing now" shows that if you can overcome big challenges, then little ones matter less!
Theo Carter in the National Youth Musical Theatre Company
Many congratulations to Theo (10J) who has been accepted into the prestigious National Youth Musical Theatre Company. Theo's debut this summer will be in the cast of their new musical, The Ballad of Raggedy Alice by Robert Messik and Roy Raby. Break a leg Theo!
Rotary Technology Tournament
16 of our budding engineers travelled to the vast REME hangar at Catterick Garrison to compete in the annual Rotary Technology Tournament - a day full of innovation, teamwork and problem-solving. Students from Years 8, 9, 10 and 12 tackled a series of increasingly complex challenges centred on designing and constructing moving structures. This put their creativity and engineering skills to the test in a competitive environment. A standout performance came from Digby, Will, Betty and Josh, whose exceptionally rigid structure and impressive design secured them first place in their category - a fantastic achievement! For our younger teams, the experience proved equally valuable, building confidence and technical understanding that will serve them well in future competitions.
Y12 Computer Science Students meet our Head of IT
Year 12 Computer Science students recently gained a fascinating insight into the digital infrastructure that keeps the College running, when Head of IT, Michal Karasinski, gave an in-depth talk on the implementation of our networking system. Students learnt more about how networking systems are designed, managed and secured in a real-world environment, before receiving a detailed tour of the College’s main server room, bringing classroom theory to life. This was a great way for students to connect their academic learning with industry practice, equipping them with the knowledge, confidence and curiosity to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world.
Message from Mrs Dent
As I write, the college is a hive of activity, with the Higher Education Conference in full swing and each year group enjoying a bespoke day off their usual timetable for an enriching diet of talks and activities designed for their particular stage and needs. Year 13 students have been given the opportunity to immerse themselves in a full day in the Art studios in prearation for their final projects, or a day of private study to kick-start their final path towards the summer examinations. We've a busy weekend ahead as we look forward to the Year 12 Parents' Morning and a raft of activities on offer to students. The pictures here capture quieter moments last weekend when some us gathered around the kitchen table for a couple of hours to have a go at the paper craft of 'quilling'. Great company and conversation as well as creativity. As we head into the final two weeks of term, a reminder that at the end of this term we vacate all rooms entirely, both for a deep clean and because the house is used for the Easter Triduum. It's the perfect opportunity for a de-clutter and we ask please that all belongings are taken home, particularly as we have minimal storage space in the house. With all good wishes for the week ahead.
Ceri Dent, Housemistress St Aidan's House
Nairac Dinner
It was an honour for members of the CCF to be invited to annual Nairac Dinner last Saturday, particularly for Rebecca, who was able to accompany her OA brother James, returning to the college for this year's event.
In other news.....
Intriguing things were happening in the common room earlier this week, as Clover enlisted the house to help with her A level Art project-development process, emulating Antony Gormley's work 'field'. It was such fun to see blocks of clay transform into this motley bunch of characters. On Monday, Pia, Celia, Edie, Emma and Olive took up the chance of some 'speed training', a fantastic opportunity open to all students each Monday after school to help with their sporting agility. We're excited to see how it feeds into their netball and lacrosse games over the coming weeks
Year 9 loved hosting their Year Group on Saturday night for social of pizza and good times around the firepit - many marshmallows were consumed!
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 lovely Year 12's spending some quality time together with our Year 9 and Year 10 Girls this week.
Our lovely Year 12's spending some quality time together with our Year 9 and Year 10 Girls this week.
Our Year 11 and Year 12's hosting potential new students staying overnight with us in St Bede's ready for their 6th Form Taster lessons in the morning
Our Year 11, Year 12 & Year 13's hosting the potential new students at breakfast time
Friday afternoon activities are full and varied:
Friday afternoon activities are full and varied:
CCF Nairac Dinner on Saturday Evening
CCF Nairac Dinner on Saturday Evening
Senior Lacrosse Team photo this week. Hoping the actual Photographer got a better picture...
As we end the second week of Lent, we begin a series of Lenten 'Disconnect to Reconnect' days. During this Lenten period, these days are another opportunity to come together as a community and reconnect with each other in a meaningful way by disconnecting from screen and phone.
24 hours without our mobile phones and iPad's = Quality time together.
Next one on Wednesday 18th March
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:
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.
Monday 27th April - Friday 1st May with Saturday 2nd May if needed.
End of Year 10 Examinations:
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:
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St Bede's House, Ampleforth College
@stbedeshouseampleforth
A busy week...
This has been a busy week, ending with the Y12 parent weekend. A great Higher Education Conference Day has been enjoyed by all of the boys, with consideration of the future and life outside of the valley. Weekend socials have been a main stay of the term so far, with much to choose from and enjoy. There have been many trips out of the valley too and boys have enjoyed flying with CCF, French exchange trips, revision sessions on business and economics and rugby sevens tournaments. House life is vibrant and hopefully this weeks photographs will reflect that.
Dawid Mallan
Escapee
Friday afternoon DT activity
Impromptu maths session
Lectio
Pancakes
Nairac Dinner (CCF)
Nairac Dinner (CCF)
New friend!
Rotary Technical Tournament Winners
Rotary Technical Tournament Winners
Evenings in house
Pupdate
Pupdate
Follow us on social media for updates!
Message from the Housemaster
Another very busy week including the Sixth Form Options weekend, Nairac Dinner, Socials, Rotary Technology Tournament, Rugby 7s tournament, Disconnect to Connect Day and the Higher Education Conference as well as the year 12 Parents' Conference (today).
Message from the Housemaster
On Friday, we welcomed 7 Remove boys into DO's for a taster night and their participation in the Sixth Form Options Morning on Saturday. Our current year 11 and our Probationary Monitors did a great job looking after Peter, Alex, John, Charlie, Tommy, George and Wojciech.
Message from the Housemaster
After unpacking their bags, they went to a social in the Windmill and then mixed with our boys in the house.
Message from the Housemaster
They were staying in the currently unused first floor dormitory.
Message from the Housemaster
As it was Peter's 16th birthday, we ensured he received a party DO style.
Message from the Housemaster
They enjoyed Currywurst and a large chocolate birthday cake.
Message from the Housemaster
The birthday boy
Message from the Housemaster
As we are celebrating the centenary in both St Dunstan's and St Oswald's, we had the original house ties recreated. They now form part of our school dress.Here, Maks and Harry proudly donning the new ties
Happy Birthday
On Saturday, Rupert turned 15 and invited all his friends to a lovely dinner in the Fairfax.
Happy Birthday
No, he is not greedy. He just likes cake!
Happy Birthday
He certainly likes his new shirt which was a present from Harry! Stylish...
Nairac Dinner
Also on Saturday night, many members of our school community came together for the annual Nairac Dinner.In case you wonder why they are all looking up...
Nairac Dinner
... they were listening to our outstanding pipe band including our very own Bart.
Nairac Dinner
DO's were represented by Freddie F (not in picture), Paddy and Luke.
Nairac Dinner
Saturday Social
Instead of Windmill last Saturday, DO's stepped in and invited the Year 13s into our house.
Saturday Social
Ambrose entertained some guests in our Rock Room.
Saturday Social
Saturday Social
Saturday Social
The team: Mr Butler, Mrs Davison, Ms Lally
Saturday Social
When the juniors returned from their social, they were treated to pizza and a movie in the Study.
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Rotary Technology Tournament
A number of our boys took part in the Rotary Technology Tournament. Here, Oli with fellow Year 9s.
Rotary Technology Tournament
Our very own Joshua won first prize!
Rotary Technology Tournament
Well done to all, especially Oli, Alvaro, Harry and Joshua.
Sporting Success
On Wednesday, Ampleforth hosted the annual Rugby 7s tournament in the valley.
Sporting Success
Benny in action
Sporting Success
As always, leading from the front.
Sporting Success
And showing Peter where the touch line is.
Sporting Success
Oliver on his way to his first try.
Sporting Success
He makes it look very easy.
Sporting Success
Richard outrunning his opponent while being cheered on by our supporters.
Sporting Success
Jonty had a great afternoon for the Seconds
Sporting Success
quod erat demonstrandum
Sporting Success
Javier wants the ball.
Sporting Success
Freddy with lightening speed (must be the white socks...)
Sporting Success
Freddy's opponent about to be outstepped.
Sporting Success
Dom is unstoppable (in every sense of the word).
Sporting Success
Told you so
Sporting Success
Disconnect to connect
From Wednesday to Thursday, the school announced a tech free 24 hours as part of our Lenten promise to give someting up for Lent.The boys were delighted (not really) but the Common Room was filled with happy voices and the boys made good use of all the facilities without distraction. If it was down to me, this would be a daily occurrence.
Disconnect to connect
Thursday Lunch was declared "Simple Lunch" with soup, bread, cheese and some salad.
Disconnect to connect
Fair to say, it wasn't Juan's favourite lunch ...Fellow Hispanic Alvaro seemed to enjoy it though.
Disconnect to connect
The tuck shop was open in the evening and the boys could made up for their lighter lunch with steak and pasta galore (after supper)!
Tidy dorm, happy Mr S
Bart is busy tidying his area just before the morning room inspection. He has done a great job and has even started to display the many postcards he has been receiving on his notice board.
Last but not least #1
Ambrose paying full attention to the task ahead during his Friday afternoon activity. There really is no end to his talents.
Last but not least #2
'Twas the night before match day, and a very excited Gus could not wait for the big day to arrive (Rugby 7s tournament). They came 3rd overall out of 16 schools. Stellar achievement.
News from Hugh's
As you may have heard from your sons, there is an important, joyful bit of news from Hugh's this week. Dawn is expecting a baby boy in mid-July! We will all, of course, miss Dawn hugely while she is on maternity leave in the Autumn Term and into the Lent Term. I know she is going to find it difficult to switch off from what's going on at SHAC and she is already thinking about her KIT days... We are lucky to have appointed Penny Graham to cover Dawn's maternity leave. Penny has already worked with some of the Hugh's boys and is an experienced Matron who has most recently been working in CT's, where she has been very highly regarded.
Dawn will be working closely with Penny to ensure a thorough handover before the end of this academic year and hopes to meet you all at Exhibition. I am sure you will all join me in wishing Dawn, Phil and Ralph all the very best as they prepare to welcome the new addition to their family!
Nairac CCF dinner
Ampleforth 7s
Commitment on and off the field...
Rotary Technology Tournament Winners!
Message from Ms Paterson
Dear Parents, It’s been a fun-filled (and fairly loud) week in St Margaret’s, with plenty of laughter, entertainment and the usual excellent house spirit. The week began with Moragh bravely holding the fort on Sunday while we celebrated Olivia’s birthday always a good excuse for a bit of cake and celebration. Moragh also hosted supper with the Year 9s, which was great fun and full of the sort of enthusiasm and energy only Year 9s can provide. Mid-week brought the highlight of the week: House Punch. Chloe delivered an excellent speech, full of gratitude for her housemates and the house staff a lovely reminder of what makes the house such a great place to be. The entertainment that followed was immense. The Year 9s absolutely stole the show, winning the song competition with their St Margaret’s version of Uptown Funk (which may or may not now be stuck in everyone’s heads). Chloe also ran 67Km for the Pahar trust. An amazing feat of endurance for a worthwhile charity. We are very proud of her (if you would like to donate the bar code is in the photos!!) The Year 12s continued the long-standing tradition of the top-year video, producing a series of very funny sketches that proved two things: they are very creative… and they have clearly been paying close attention to house life over the years. We ended the week with the Higher Education Fayre, giving everyone a chance to think about life beyond St Margaret’s though judging by the enthusiasm at House Punch, nobody seems in a rush to leave just yet. This weekend there are plenty of socials planned, so we are expecting more laughter, questionable dance moves, and lots more house spirit. Warm regards, Rebecca
Lyke Wake Run Chloe Grace
Rotary Technology Tournament
Nairac Dinner
Y9 Sunday cooking with Moragh
Birthdays this week
Happy Birthday to Olivia
Junior House Newsletter 13/03/26
See what our Junior House has been up to this week...
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Housemaster's message
After a busy and purposeful week, we rounded things off with a fun‑filled weekend: a brilliant trip to the bowling alley, shopping in York, and—by popular demand—a Chinese takeaway to finish the evening! In school, our pupils have once again shown just how impressive they can be. Junior House took centre stage on Monday as Mr Slingsby, Kiki & Toby led assembly in front of the whole school, speaking with confidence, clarity, and real pride. Meanwhile, our Da Vinci Decathlon team has been working hard in preparation for next week’s competition, showing creativity, teamwork, and determination throughout their preparation sessions.
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Housemaster's message
And of course, it wouldn’t be a normal week here without a full calendar of sporting fixtures. From the pitches to the courts, our students represented Junior House with great spirit, teamwork, and commitment. All in all, a wonderfully full and uplifting week—exactly the sort of atmosphere that makes Junior House such a vibrant place to live and learn.
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Saturday Bowling 🎳
Last Saturday our boarders went to Hollywood Bowl in York. There they enjoyed playing a round of bowling with all their friends and played some arcade games. To top it all off Mr Slingsby came around with lemonades, cokes or slushies for everyone.
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Saturday Bowling🎳
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Swipe through some more photos taken at Hollywood Bowl.
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Netball 🏐
Last week the girls played at Giggleswick. It was a long drive but well worth it. The girls played really well as a team and I am very proud of them. The U13As won 17-2.
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Sunday York Trip
Good purchases were made by all in York on Sunday. Alma bought an air hockey game which has been very popular this week in house, Juan brought some new shoes and Tony stocked up on snacks from Red Chilli.
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Chinese New Year 🥡
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On Sunday night all the boarders shared and enjoyed some delicious chinese takeaway. Yummmmmy!
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Chilling in house
Alfie has been greeted with lots of smiles this week when he has come into house. On Sunday they had a challenge where they all sat in a circle in silence with Alfie in the middle to see who Alfie crawled to. However, Alfie had other plans and crawled around to each of them once and then went to Bea and Bertrand. Alfie then sat with Bertrand and Bruno for a film.
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Rotary Technology Tournament
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This week students including Will Z, Aleksander, Sabine and Isabel participated in the rotary technology tournament with the senior students.
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In the classroom
This week in prep the year 8 students have been finishing their geography posters. Meanwhile the year 7s have been revising maths in the lead up to their test.
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HEC Day
EWs turned into The Apprentice Boardroom today as they took on challenges in house. In tutor groups they were tasked with creating their own cereal brand, considering nutrition, calculating production costs and filming an advert in order to pitch their product to the judging panel of Matron Kirsten, Miss Newbould, Mr Slingsby, Mrs Slingsby and Mr Ruane.
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HEC Day
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More photos from HEC day!
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Students of the week
This week Toby and Kiki are selected for their exceptional speech in this weeks assembly at the last minute. Additionally, they both consistently help out in house and give 100% effort to their academics and sporting commitments. Watch their video on the Ampleforth College instagram!
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Upcoming Events
Game Night Boarders, get ready for an epic games night this Saturday. Bring your best strategy, your loudest laughs, and maybe a lucky snack! Sunday=Bonfire and Marshmallows This Sunday night the boarders are having a bonfire outside where they will toast (or burn) marshmallows to enjoy! 😋 Weekend Sports Fixtures Boys Hockey- The EWs boys have an away match at Silcoates School this weekend. They leave from theatre square at 8:00am. The match starts at 11:30am and they will return by 13:30pm. Good luck! Girls Netball- The EWs girls are playing Pocklington school this weekend. It is a home match starting at 14:00pm. Good luck!
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