The News 20 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
Tomorrow is the feast day of St Benedict. We celebrated with the whole school singing Compline together yesterday evening in the Abbey Church, which is always a moving experience, followed by Mass this morning. I wish you a happy St Benedict's Day. We look forward tomorrow evening to Bach's St John Passion, welcoming the choir of Terrington Hall school singing along with our own Schola Cantorum. You can still buy last minute tickets here On Wednesday, Year 13 had their last year group Retreat. The sun shone in a cloudless sky and the students enjoyed a wonderful day of reflection and being together; a key transitional moment as their time in the Valley draws to a close. We welcomed a number of local and national schools on Tuesday for our annual Da Vinci Decathlon where pupils, working in teams, attempt various multi-disciplinary academic challenges. I was delighted to see how well our own pupils performed in this brain-stretching competition. With regards to academics, there has been significant support being given to our Y11 and Y13 students as they approach the Easter holiday. While it is important that they get some rest, this holiday is a crucial time for them to build up their revision and complete examination papers to hone their techniques. Please support them to do their best. Next week, I look forward to visiting different European cities, London, Vienna, Munich and Paris, to talk to prospective families about an Ampleforth education. The fact there is such interest is testament to the desire for what we have on offer. I wish everyone a very enjoyable Easter holiday.
Higher Education Conference
We welcomed hundreds of people to our annual Higher Education Conference & Careers Fair last Friday for a day focused on pathways after school. Our Year 12 students, supported by their parents, and over 200 visiting students from local schools, engaged thoughtfully with expert speakers, explored exhibition stands, and gained valuable insight into life after Sixth Form.
The conference brought together leading universities, organisations, and industry professionals to deliver a wide programme of seminars and exhibitions covering academic courses, degree apprenticeships, gap years, and career opportunities. There was advice from university admissions specialists, guidance on the UCAS process, and inspiring reflections from current Upper Sixth students on their own journeys.
We are grateful to all delegates, schools liaison teams and professional partners who gave their time to support this important event.
DaVinci Decathlon
It was another brilliant day hosting the Da Vinci Decathlon at Ampleforth once again! The Da Vinci Decathlon is a prestigious academic competition designed to challenge and stimulate the minds of school students. The competition was originally started in Australia in 2002. Students compete in teams of eight across 10 disciplines: Engineering, Mathematics and chess, code breaking, art and poetry, science, English, Ideation, Creative Producers, Cartography and Legacy. Thank you to everyone who took part – we loved having you here and can’t wait to do it all again next year!
OA Piers Tempest (E92) returns to the Valley
Following the 3 BAFTA Award wins for the film 'I Swear', one of the producers, E92 and current parent, Piers Tempest, came to speak to students about his life as a filmmaker.
After we had all watched the film, Piers shared insights into the creative journey behind it, inspired by the powerful story of John Davidson and the importance of raising understanding about Tourette’s syndrome. He explained that the greatest challenges often stem not from the condition itself, but from a lack of awareness and empathy.
Reflecting on his time at Ampleforth, Piers spoke about how life in Fr Edward’s House and the Valley helped nurture his creativity, individuality and the ability to connect with others; qualities he described as essential in independent filmmaking and in life more broadly. His message, that the most important skill in filmmaking is the ability to work with anyone and everyone, resonated strongly with our students. Thank you Piers for inspiring Amplefordians to pursue their passions with confidence, imagination and compassion.
Lulu (11M) Competing with the Gibraltar U17 Netball Team
Many congratulations to Lulu (11M) as she represented the Gibraltar U17 Netball Team at the Rising Stars Cup in the Isle of Man last weekend.
The tournament provided an exciting and challenging international experience, with the team demonstrating outstanding spirit and determination throughout. Lulu delivered a particularly impressive performance against Ireland and was recognised as Coaches’ Player of the Tournament, a fantastic achievement at this level of competition.
This builds on her continued success with Gibraltar, following last year’s silver-medal performance in Belfast and the team’s recognition as Best Junior Team of the Year at the Gibraltar Sports Awards.
Balancing elite sport with school life is no small feat, and we are incredibly proud of Lulu’s commitment and perseverance both on and off the court.
World Recycling Day
To mark World Recyling Day, we wanted to share a story about food waste at Ampleforth College. With over 650 students and staff on site each day, managing food waste is an important operational and environmental priority for us. As part of a wider sustainability strategy, we have introduced new food waste drying technology to reduce reliance on landfill and improve efficiency.
The system significantly reduces the volume of food waste without the use of water or consumables, helping to streamline kitchen workflows while lowering ongoing operating costs. The dried waste is then collected and sent for anaerobic digestion, supporting more sustainable, circular approaches to waste management.
This is a practical example of how operational improvements can support long-term environmental goals, while reinforcing the importance of responsible resource use across our school community.
'Disconnect to Reconnect'
During Lent, we have been holding a series of ‘Disconnect to Reconnect’ days, opportunities for our community to pause, step away from screens, and focus on meaningful connections. Phones and personal devices will be set aside for 24 hours, encouraging time for conversation, reflection and real presence with one another. Students will take part in House activities such as community meetings, Lenten readings, or Lectio reflections.
This is not about rejecting technology. Rather, it supports digital wellbeing, helping students find a healthy balance. These moments of community invite students to grow in empathy and connection during this important season.
We have decided to combine these days with the 'Live Simply' CAFOD intiative which encourages us to care for our planet and live in solidarity with those who are less fortunate. On these days we eat a simple lunch of soup, bread and cheese - a Lenten lunch as well as a Lenten reflection.
Message from Mrs Dent
There's so much to report since last Friday, starting with Year 12 Parents' weekend - a great opportunity to catch up with parents and, of course, for those of you who visited to get some in depth insight into the progress being made by the girls both academically and in a more general sense. Thank you to Karla de Montbel for representing Year 12 parents as Parent Representative for the year group. How special too, that so many parents were able to join the school for Mass on Mothering Sunday. This week we've had, among other things:
- The DaVinci decathalon event
- Senior Inter-house Netball
- St Benedict's day (whole school Compline last night and Mass today)
- Year 13 Retreat
- A fascinating lecture from Photo-Journalist Rick Finkler (Years 12 and 13)
- Bronze DofE expedition (departing tomorrow)
- Disconnect to Reconnect day Tuesday into Wednesday
- A D&T trip for Betty
- Probationary Monitor training sessions
- Hosting Year 11 for a Year Group social
- An outstanding 'Cantoring' turn by Florence at Sunday Mass
- Ellie-Rose doing a grand job speaking in Assembly about Cultural Diveristy
- A distinction for Flora in her grade 8 Lamda exam
All the while, the girls continue with their academic studies and activities, coursework deadlines, revision twilight sessions, sports and all the usual day to day happenings. It's always a pleasure to be able to accompany the girls as they go about their activities outside of the house. This week I had the privilage of spending two full days out and about with Flora and Celia as they conducted A level Geography Fieldwork at the coast and in the city of York. More good things to come in the final week of term.
Ceri Dent, Housemistress St Aidan's House
Senior Inter-house Netball
Geography Fieldwork
We were blessed with incredible weather as Flora and Celia visited Flamborough Head on Wednesday as part of their Geography Fieldwork day looking at coastal processes and landforms. We had the unexpected bonus of viewing hundreds of Grey and Common seals basking on the rocks in the sunshine - a rare treat to cap off a fantastic day.
Da Vinci Decathlon
We were proud to have so many of our Year 9s and 10s involved in this Year's Da Vinci Decathlon event, with great success for our teams against visiting schools in this exciting day of challenges.
Well done to Aurielle, Willa, Florence, Willow, Mary and Olive for their contributions.
In other news.....
The success of last week's Higher Education Conference was in not small way supported by our wonderful Monitor Team. Here's Emilia (fourth from left) enjoying a well deserved cup of something reviving following a morning of hosting duties. It was the turn of Pia, Lily and Victoria to share their talents at the Parents' Day recital last Saturday morning.
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.
Celebrating Catherine's Birthday in the House
Back from the French Exchange Week and into Lucy's Birthday celebrations
Audrey's 18th Birthday in the House
Our beautiful Year 9's ready for the Saturday Evening Black Tie Social
Our Year 10's taking part in a Puzzle Session before their Careers & Revision Day
HEC Day
HEC Day
HEC Day
Off to lessons...
Rose and Lucy helping at the Soup Kitchen
Senior Girls House Netball
Senior Girls House Netball
Senior Girls House Netball
Senior Girls House Netball
Senior Girls House Netball
Wednesday 18th March 24 hours without our mobile phones and iPad's = Quality time together.
Chaplaincy this week:
Wednesday 18 March – Year 13 Retreat. Thursday 19 March - Whole School Compline 7:30pm start in Abbey Church. Friday 20 March - 11:15am Mass for St Benedict’s Day. Celebration house lunch afterwards.
Wednesday 18 March – Year 13 Retreat.
DO NOT BE AFRAID OF
HOLINESS
Osmotherley
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.
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:
Please follow our Social Media.
Instagram
Facebook
St Bede's House, Ampleforth College
@stbedeshouseampleforth
Happy Feast of St.Benedict
This week has been one of reflection. Y13 had their final retreat as Ampleforth students, visiting the lovely chapel at Osmotherley. The week has ended with St Benedict's Day and Compline on Thursday night was a calming point so close to the end of term. Deanery sesisons on silence, listening and the power of what we say, were timely reminders of how we interact in a boarding environment. As St. Benedict explained "The value of silence is so important that there are times when it is best not to speak even though what we have in mind is good". I look forward o seeing many of you at the end of term.
Year 9 Black Tie Social
Higher Education Conference
Higher Education Conference
Higher Education Conference
Year 12 Recital
House Hockey
House Hockey
House Hockey
House Hockey
Year 13 Retreat
Year 13 Retreat
Geography Field Trip
Geography Field Trip
Geography Field Trip
Geography Field Trip
Da Vinci Competition
Da Vinci Competition
Spring? Warm enough for tennis!
Compline
Pupdate - new friends
Pupdate - new friends
Pupdate
Pupdate
Follow us on social media for updates!
Message from the Housemaster
Spring has truly sprung in our garden with thousands of beautiful daffodils.After a very busy last week, this week has been calmer and more reflective including Wednesay's Year 13 Retreat and our Feast of St Benedict on Friday. On Saturday, our schola will perform the St John's Passion at 7.30pm in the Abbey church. Tickets are still available. We are now counting down to the beginning of the Easter holidays next week.
Higher Education Conference
On Friday, Ampleforth invited our students and students from many other schools (and their parents) to the annual HEC. It was a day packed with useful advise and information. Well done to Clare Tidmarsh for organising this amazing event.
Higher Education Conference
Justus and his father Robin finding out more about life after school.
Higher Education Conference
So does Joshua and his parents.
Higher Education Conference
Maks listening intently.
Higher Education Conference
Jonty and other School Monitors did a great job behind the scenes.
Year 12 Parents Conference
On Friday evening, some of our year 12 parents, Rebecca and I met up for a lovely meal in the White Swan in Ampleforth.
Year 12 Parents Conference
On Saturday morning, the year 12 parents were treated to a top quality musical performance.
House improvements
I am indebted to Richard's mother Cath for replacing our tatty plastic blinds with something much more beautiful.Photos to follow.
House improvements
Measurements are being taken.
Community
Caspar and Paddy were sharing a pizza to discuss their differences they had the night before.
Saturday Social
Our boys looking forward to their black tie social. They looked especially smart with their pocket squares!
Saturday Social
The year 9s met in the Matthew's room for their Black Tie social.
Saturday Social
Saturday Social
Our boys needed a bit of encouragement to approach the ladies...
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Music is in the air
Teddy being admired by Oscar and Jonty for his guitar skills.
Sporting Success (not)
On Monday, our senior boys competed in the Senior Hockey competition. Alas they were unable to recreate our juniors' sucess last week and came 3rd.
Sporting Success (not)
They cannot be blamed though as they all did their best. We were not allowed a goal keeper which did not help.
Sporting Success (not)
Sporting Success (not)
Sporting Success (not)
Sporting Success (not)
Charles was trying his very best...
Sporting Success (not)
... taking aim...
Sporting Success (not)
.... and scoring!
Tuesday breakfast
On Tuesday, Jakub was in charge of cooking eggs. What I did not know was that Jakub is a 7 egg-a-day-man.
Boy of the Week
Not only did Oliver produce a most wonderful art work with hand crafted trouts, he also received a total of 10 AP+ in 4 days. Unheard of!Well done, Oliver
Boy of the Week
Academics
Every night from 10pm, our Remove (year 11) boys put in an extra study session in preparation for their GCSE examinations.
St Benedict's Day
The boys getting ready for the whole school comline on Thursday evening.
St Benedict's Day
It was a very reflective and beautiful occassion.
St Benedict's Day
Today, we celebrated mass during period 3 and 4, followed by a festive lunch.
St Benedict's Day
We were overjoyed that Mrs Rogerson was able to come in and celebrate mass with us.
St Benedict's Day
Eddie, Harry and Freddie enjoying their steak and chips lunch.
Last but not least
Brotherly love between the boys across the year groups.
What's next...
With the beautiful sunshine in the Valley this week, St Hugh's has really come into its own. The boys have enjoyed playing on the astro, being out on the grass and, for Year 13 on their retreat, having a morning barbecue! A theme throughout the week has been a focus on next steps, with the Higher Education Conference on Friday providing opportunities for all year groups to look ahead to their options and plans for the future. The Conference itself was busy and wide-ranging. It was great to hear so many of the boys talking seriously about what they may want to do in the future. This is especially important, since much in terms of their life after school depends on what they choose to do while at school. On that note, I loved this photograph from the Year 12 Geography fieldtrip. Work and life at Ampleforth are shared projects: we rely on each other and we support each other to achieve our potential.
Kitchen refresh
Over half-term, we refreshed the kitchen with a slight change in layout and a fresh lick of paint. Year 9 enjoyed the return of Taco Tuesdays and the Year 13 steak breakfast was a great success on Wednesday.
House Hockey
With great teamwork and some fantastic individual performances, the Senior Boys added another tropy to the cabinet, winning the Inter-House Hockey tournament convincingly.
Message from Ms Paterson
Dear Parents, It’s been another fun-filled week here at St Margaret’s House, with a variety of trips and activities keeping everyone busy and engaged. It’s been wonderful to see so many students getting involved and making the most of every opportunity. The week will culminate in our St Benedict’s Day celebrations this Friday, which we are all very much looking forward to a great chance to come together as a house and celebrate. A special well done to Olivia B for competing in the National Cross Country Championships — a fantastic achievement and something to be very proud of! Congratulations as well to our Inter-House Senior Netball winners for their excellent performance, and to Maria and Olivia for taking part in the DaVinci Decathlon a brilliant display of teamwork and academic challenge. We’re also excited ahead of next week, when we will be taking Year 10 to Castle Howard. It promises to be a fantastic trip and a memorable experience for all involved. Wishing everyone a lovely weekend ahead. Warm regards, Rebecca
Lulu Y11 Gibraltar Netball
HEC Day
Senior InterHouse Netball
WINNERS!!
Olivia Y10 England Cross Country
Davinci Decathalon
Well done to Maria Y9 and Olivia Y10 for taking part and both teams winning!
Junior House Newsletter 20/03/26
See what our Junior House has been up to this week...
Start!
Housemasters message
This week has been a lively and successful one. Our Junior House students excelled in the Da Vinci Decathlon, proudly finishing as Junior winners. The sunny weather meant plenty of outdoor sport, with football, rugby, and hockey enjoyed throughout the week.
The house has been full of energy this week with students practicing instruments, writing songs, and chatting about holiday plans. On Sunday, a creative session also saw students painting the solar system on the art wall in house, producing some fantastic work that is there to showcase for the Junior House Information Morning this Saturday. It has been a positive and productive week, filled with achievement, creativity, and community spirit.
Start!
Next
Back
Mother's Day
Happy Mother's Day for last Sunday! Last week the students were busy making cards and getting gifts including pocket hugs and soap for all their wonderful mums. Alma above is making her card that she will give to her mum when she sees her in the holidays.
Start!
Next
Back
Birthdays 🎂
Happy Birthday to birthday twins Alice and Cleo for Wednesday. We hope you enjoyed your day celebrating with friends (and your cake!)
Start!
Next
Back
Village Shop 🍬
Last Sunday a few of the boarders walked to the village shop with Matron Tina. They picked up a variety of sweet treats. Alma on the other hand got coca cola, her favourite drink if you can't tell.
Start!
Next
Back
Sunday Painting 🎨
On Sunday students including Abena, Sabine, Marie, Carolina spent their time painting a solar system on the wall. There is an odd planet amongst them but don't worry it's only Marie planet painted purple and pink ombre with a multicoloured planetary ring.
Start!
Next
Back
Netball 🏐
On Thursday the girls had the task of teaching the boys who weren't playing in the hockey match the rules of netball. It was a fun activity which had both the girls and boys engaged. Everyone then got involved playing a mixed game of round robin. What a fun afternoon with the sun making an appearance!
Start!
Next
Back
Netball 🏐
Start!
More action shots of the afternoon!
Next
Back
Da Vinci Social
On Monday this week the boarders had a social in Windmill.
Start!
They had dinner and played games together with one of the other schools competing in the Da Vinci Decathlon.
Next
Back
Da Vinci Decathlon
On Tuesday this week George T, Toby, Abena, Cleo, Bruno, Carolina, Aleksandr and Annabelle competed in the National Da Vinci Decathlon. Our junior house team was successful winning 3 first places!! One in the junior code breaking challenge, one in the junior art and poetry challenge and one in the junior ideation challenge making them the overall junior winners! What amazing performance from the students. We are all so proud of their efforts!
Start!
Next
Back
Da Vinci Decathlon
Start!
Here are some action shots from the Da Vinci Decathlon
Next
Back
Marshmallows
This week, boarders had great fun toasting and burning marshmallows on the lawn outside EWs. Students took part in lighting the fire before grabbing their sticks and marshmallows to enjoy. Afterwards, the marshmallows gave them plenty of energy for football and hockey matches on the astro.
Start!
Next
Back
In the classroom
This week in Biology the Year 8s have been learning about the anatomy of the lungs. Miss Newbould gave them playdough so they could demonstrate their understanding of what lungs look like. Afterwards they learnt about what how the lungs and diaphragm work together to allow us to inhale and exhale.
Start!
Next
Back
In the classroom
Start!
Some action shots of the students making their lungs with playdough
Next
Back
Student of the week
This week Bruno has been selected as student of the week for not only his contribution to the Da Vinci Decathlon on Tuesday but he also played his first A team hockey match on Thursday after his commitment and dedication all season and hence he has shown big improvement over the season. Bruno is also one of the students that hasnt recieved a negative at all this term and it shows as he is consistently working hard in lessons, offers to help other students struggling with prep and is a smiling face and a helping hand around house. Keep up the great work Bruno!
Start!
Next
Back
Upcoming Events
SAC Inflatables This Saturday night, Years 7, 8 and 9 are going up to SAC to play some games with inflatables. It is sure to be a fun one! Sunday walk and chill The boarders will have the option on Sunday to take a nice walk to gilling to enjoy the sun and some chips at the fairfax. Others can stay in house and play games outside, read, paint and spend time with siblings. Movie Night Sunday evening will be a chill movie night in house as we prepare for the busy days ahead before the easter break. Weekend Sports Fixtures EWs have finished their fixtures for the season. Lets look forward to cricket season after the easter break!
Start!
Next
Back
Follow us....
Sports Fixtures Please follow this link to keep up to date with all our fixtures.
Password - Benedictine 1802
Next
The News 20 March 2026
Sam.Johnson
Created on March 20, 2026
Start designing with a free template
Discover more than 1500 professional designs like these:
Explore all templates
Transcript
The News 20 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
Tomorrow is the feast day of St Benedict. We celebrated with the whole school singing Compline together yesterday evening in the Abbey Church, which is always a moving experience, followed by Mass this morning. I wish you a happy St Benedict's Day. We look forward tomorrow evening to Bach's St John Passion, welcoming the choir of Terrington Hall school singing along with our own Schola Cantorum. You can still buy last minute tickets here On Wednesday, Year 13 had their last year group Retreat. The sun shone in a cloudless sky and the students enjoyed a wonderful day of reflection and being together; a key transitional moment as their time in the Valley draws to a close. We welcomed a number of local and national schools on Tuesday for our annual Da Vinci Decathlon where pupils, working in teams, attempt various multi-disciplinary academic challenges. I was delighted to see how well our own pupils performed in this brain-stretching competition. With regards to academics, there has been significant support being given to our Y11 and Y13 students as they approach the Easter holiday. While it is important that they get some rest, this holiday is a crucial time for them to build up their revision and complete examination papers to hone their techniques. Please support them to do their best. Next week, I look forward to visiting different European cities, London, Vienna, Munich and Paris, to talk to prospective families about an Ampleforth education. The fact there is such interest is testament to the desire for what we have on offer. I wish everyone a very enjoyable Easter holiday.
Higher Education Conference
We welcomed hundreds of people to our annual Higher Education Conference & Careers Fair last Friday for a day focused on pathways after school. Our Year 12 students, supported by their parents, and over 200 visiting students from local schools, engaged thoughtfully with expert speakers, explored exhibition stands, and gained valuable insight into life after Sixth Form. The conference brought together leading universities, organisations, and industry professionals to deliver a wide programme of seminars and exhibitions covering academic courses, degree apprenticeships, gap years, and career opportunities. There was advice from university admissions specialists, guidance on the UCAS process, and inspiring reflections from current Upper Sixth students on their own journeys. We are grateful to all delegates, schools liaison teams and professional partners who gave their time to support this important event.
DaVinci Decathlon
It was another brilliant day hosting the Da Vinci Decathlon at Ampleforth once again! The Da Vinci Decathlon is a prestigious academic competition designed to challenge and stimulate the minds of school students. The competition was originally started in Australia in 2002. Students compete in teams of eight across 10 disciplines: Engineering, Mathematics and chess, code breaking, art and poetry, science, English, Ideation, Creative Producers, Cartography and Legacy. Thank you to everyone who took part – we loved having you here and can’t wait to do it all again next year!
OA Piers Tempest (E92) returns to the Valley
Following the 3 BAFTA Award wins for the film 'I Swear', one of the producers, E92 and current parent, Piers Tempest, came to speak to students about his life as a filmmaker. After we had all watched the film, Piers shared insights into the creative journey behind it, inspired by the powerful story of John Davidson and the importance of raising understanding about Tourette’s syndrome. He explained that the greatest challenges often stem not from the condition itself, but from a lack of awareness and empathy. Reflecting on his time at Ampleforth, Piers spoke about how life in Fr Edward’s House and the Valley helped nurture his creativity, individuality and the ability to connect with others; qualities he described as essential in independent filmmaking and in life more broadly. His message, that the most important skill in filmmaking is the ability to work with anyone and everyone, resonated strongly with our students. Thank you Piers for inspiring Amplefordians to pursue their passions with confidence, imagination and compassion.
Lulu (11M) Competing with the Gibraltar U17 Netball Team
Many congratulations to Lulu (11M) as she represented the Gibraltar U17 Netball Team at the Rising Stars Cup in the Isle of Man last weekend. The tournament provided an exciting and challenging international experience, with the team demonstrating outstanding spirit and determination throughout. Lulu delivered a particularly impressive performance against Ireland and was recognised as Coaches’ Player of the Tournament, a fantastic achievement at this level of competition. This builds on her continued success with Gibraltar, following last year’s silver-medal performance in Belfast and the team’s recognition as Best Junior Team of the Year at the Gibraltar Sports Awards. Balancing elite sport with school life is no small feat, and we are incredibly proud of Lulu’s commitment and perseverance both on and off the court.
World Recycling Day
To mark World Recyling Day, we wanted to share a story about food waste at Ampleforth College. With over 650 students and staff on site each day, managing food waste is an important operational and environmental priority for us. As part of a wider sustainability strategy, we have introduced new food waste drying technology to reduce reliance on landfill and improve efficiency. The system significantly reduces the volume of food waste without the use of water or consumables, helping to streamline kitchen workflows while lowering ongoing operating costs. The dried waste is then collected and sent for anaerobic digestion, supporting more sustainable, circular approaches to waste management. This is a practical example of how operational improvements can support long-term environmental goals, while reinforcing the importance of responsible resource use across our school community.
'Disconnect to Reconnect'
During Lent, we have been holding a series of ‘Disconnect to Reconnect’ days, opportunities for our community to pause, step away from screens, and focus on meaningful connections. Phones and personal devices will be set aside for 24 hours, encouraging time for conversation, reflection and real presence with one another. Students will take part in House activities such as community meetings, Lenten readings, or Lectio reflections. This is not about rejecting technology. Rather, it supports digital wellbeing, helping students find a healthy balance. These moments of community invite students to grow in empathy and connection during this important season. We have decided to combine these days with the 'Live Simply' CAFOD intiative which encourages us to care for our planet and live in solidarity with those who are less fortunate. On these days we eat a simple lunch of soup, bread and cheese - a Lenten lunch as well as a Lenten reflection.
Message from Mrs Dent
There's so much to report since last Friday, starting with Year 12 Parents' weekend - a great opportunity to catch up with parents and, of course, for those of you who visited to get some in depth insight into the progress being made by the girls both academically and in a more general sense. Thank you to Karla de Montbel for representing Year 12 parents as Parent Representative for the year group. How special too, that so many parents were able to join the school for Mass on Mothering Sunday. This week we've had, among other things:
- The DaVinci decathalon event
- Senior Inter-house Netball
- St Benedict's day (whole school Compline last night and Mass today)
- Year 13 Retreat
- A fascinating lecture from Photo-Journalist Rick Finkler (Years 12 and 13)
- Bronze DofE expedition (departing tomorrow)
- Disconnect to Reconnect day Tuesday into Wednesday
- A D&T trip for Betty
- Probationary Monitor training sessions
- Hosting Year 11 for a Year Group social
- An outstanding 'Cantoring' turn by Florence at Sunday Mass
- Ellie-Rose doing a grand job speaking in Assembly about Cultural Diveristy
- A distinction for Flora in her grade 8 Lamda exam
All the while, the girls continue with their academic studies and activities, coursework deadlines, revision twilight sessions, sports and all the usual day to day happenings. It's always a pleasure to be able to accompany the girls as they go about their activities outside of the house. This week I had the privilage of spending two full days out and about with Flora and Celia as they conducted A level Geography Fieldwork at the coast and in the city of York. More good things to come in the final week of term.Ceri Dent, Housemistress St Aidan's House
Senior Inter-house Netball
Geography Fieldwork
We were blessed with incredible weather as Flora and Celia visited Flamborough Head on Wednesday as part of their Geography Fieldwork day looking at coastal processes and landforms. We had the unexpected bonus of viewing hundreds of Grey and Common seals basking on the rocks in the sunshine - a rare treat to cap off a fantastic day.
Da Vinci Decathlon
We were proud to have so many of our Year 9s and 10s involved in this Year's Da Vinci Decathlon event, with great success for our teams against visiting schools in this exciting day of challenges.
Well done to Aurielle, Willa, Florence, Willow, Mary and Olive for their contributions.
In other news.....
The success of last week's Higher Education Conference was in not small way supported by our wonderful Monitor Team. Here's Emilia (fourth from left) enjoying a well deserved cup of something reviving following a morning of hosting duties. It was the turn of Pia, Lily and Victoria to share their talents at the Parents' Day recital last Saturday morning.
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.
Celebrating Catherine's Birthday in the House
Back from the French Exchange Week and into Lucy's Birthday celebrations
Audrey's 18th Birthday in the House
Our beautiful Year 9's ready for the Saturday Evening Black Tie Social
Our Year 10's taking part in a Puzzle Session before their Careers & Revision Day
HEC Day
HEC Day
HEC Day
Off to lessons...
Rose and Lucy helping at the Soup Kitchen
Senior Girls House Netball
Senior Girls House Netball
Senior Girls House Netball
Senior Girls House Netball
Senior Girls House Netball
Wednesday 18th March 24 hours without our mobile phones and iPad's = Quality time together.
Chaplaincy this week:
Wednesday 18 March – Year 13 Retreat. Thursday 19 March - Whole School Compline 7:30pm start in Abbey Church. Friday 20 March - 11:15am Mass for St Benedict’s Day. Celebration house lunch afterwards.
Wednesday 18 March – Year 13 Retreat.
DO NOT BE AFRAID OF HOLINESS
Osmotherley
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.
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:
Please follow our Social Media.
Instagram
Facebook
St Bede's House, Ampleforth College
@stbedeshouseampleforth
Happy Feast of St.Benedict
This week has been one of reflection. Y13 had their final retreat as Ampleforth students, visiting the lovely chapel at Osmotherley. The week has ended with St Benedict's Day and Compline on Thursday night was a calming point so close to the end of term. Deanery sesisons on silence, listening and the power of what we say, were timely reminders of how we interact in a boarding environment. As St. Benedict explained "The value of silence is so important that there are times when it is best not to speak even though what we have in mind is good". I look forward o seeing many of you at the end of term.
Year 9 Black Tie Social
Higher Education Conference
Higher Education Conference
Higher Education Conference
Year 12 Recital
House Hockey
House Hockey
House Hockey
House Hockey
Year 13 Retreat
Year 13 Retreat
Geography Field Trip
Geography Field Trip
Geography Field Trip
Geography Field Trip
Da Vinci Competition
Da Vinci Competition
Spring? Warm enough for tennis!
Compline
Pupdate - new friends
Pupdate - new friends
Pupdate
Pupdate
Follow us on social media for updates!
Message from the Housemaster
Spring has truly sprung in our garden with thousands of beautiful daffodils.After a very busy last week, this week has been calmer and more reflective including Wednesay's Year 13 Retreat and our Feast of St Benedict on Friday. On Saturday, our schola will perform the St John's Passion at 7.30pm in the Abbey church. Tickets are still available. We are now counting down to the beginning of the Easter holidays next week.
Higher Education Conference
On Friday, Ampleforth invited our students and students from many other schools (and their parents) to the annual HEC. It was a day packed with useful advise and information. Well done to Clare Tidmarsh for organising this amazing event.
Higher Education Conference
Justus and his father Robin finding out more about life after school.
Higher Education Conference
So does Joshua and his parents.
Higher Education Conference
Maks listening intently.
Higher Education Conference
Jonty and other School Monitors did a great job behind the scenes.
Year 12 Parents Conference
On Friday evening, some of our year 12 parents, Rebecca and I met up for a lovely meal in the White Swan in Ampleforth.
Year 12 Parents Conference
On Saturday morning, the year 12 parents were treated to a top quality musical performance.
House improvements
I am indebted to Richard's mother Cath for replacing our tatty plastic blinds with something much more beautiful.Photos to follow.
House improvements
Measurements are being taken.
Community
Caspar and Paddy were sharing a pizza to discuss their differences they had the night before.
Saturday Social
Our boys looking forward to their black tie social. They looked especially smart with their pocket squares!
Saturday Social
The year 9s met in the Matthew's room for their Black Tie social.
Saturday Social
Saturday Social
Our boys needed a bit of encouragement to approach the ladies...
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Sunday Night is Deli Night
Music is in the air
Teddy being admired by Oscar and Jonty for his guitar skills.
Sporting Success (not)
On Monday, our senior boys competed in the Senior Hockey competition. Alas they were unable to recreate our juniors' sucess last week and came 3rd.
Sporting Success (not)
They cannot be blamed though as they all did their best. We were not allowed a goal keeper which did not help.
Sporting Success (not)
Sporting Success (not)
Sporting Success (not)
Sporting Success (not)
Charles was trying his very best...
Sporting Success (not)
... taking aim...
Sporting Success (not)
.... and scoring!
Tuesday breakfast
On Tuesday, Jakub was in charge of cooking eggs. What I did not know was that Jakub is a 7 egg-a-day-man.
Boy of the Week
Not only did Oliver produce a most wonderful art work with hand crafted trouts, he also received a total of 10 AP+ in 4 days. Unheard of!Well done, Oliver
Boy of the Week
Academics
Every night from 10pm, our Remove (year 11) boys put in an extra study session in preparation for their GCSE examinations.
St Benedict's Day
The boys getting ready for the whole school comline on Thursday evening.
St Benedict's Day
It was a very reflective and beautiful occassion.
St Benedict's Day
Today, we celebrated mass during period 3 and 4, followed by a festive lunch.
St Benedict's Day
We were overjoyed that Mrs Rogerson was able to come in and celebrate mass with us.
St Benedict's Day
Eddie, Harry and Freddie enjoying their steak and chips lunch.
Last but not least
Brotherly love between the boys across the year groups.
What's next...
With the beautiful sunshine in the Valley this week, St Hugh's has really come into its own. The boys have enjoyed playing on the astro, being out on the grass and, for Year 13 on their retreat, having a morning barbecue! A theme throughout the week has been a focus on next steps, with the Higher Education Conference on Friday providing opportunities for all year groups to look ahead to their options and plans for the future. The Conference itself was busy and wide-ranging. It was great to hear so many of the boys talking seriously about what they may want to do in the future. This is especially important, since much in terms of their life after school depends on what they choose to do while at school. On that note, I loved this photograph from the Year 12 Geography fieldtrip. Work and life at Ampleforth are shared projects: we rely on each other and we support each other to achieve our potential.
Kitchen refresh
Over half-term, we refreshed the kitchen with a slight change in layout and a fresh lick of paint. Year 9 enjoyed the return of Taco Tuesdays and the Year 13 steak breakfast was a great success on Wednesday.
House Hockey
With great teamwork and some fantastic individual performances, the Senior Boys added another tropy to the cabinet, winning the Inter-House Hockey tournament convincingly.
Message from Ms Paterson
Dear Parents, It’s been another fun-filled week here at St Margaret’s House, with a variety of trips and activities keeping everyone busy and engaged. It’s been wonderful to see so many students getting involved and making the most of every opportunity. The week will culminate in our St Benedict’s Day celebrations this Friday, which we are all very much looking forward to a great chance to come together as a house and celebrate. A special well done to Olivia B for competing in the National Cross Country Championships — a fantastic achievement and something to be very proud of! Congratulations as well to our Inter-House Senior Netball winners for their excellent performance, and to Maria and Olivia for taking part in the DaVinci Decathlon a brilliant display of teamwork and academic challenge. We’re also excited ahead of next week, when we will be taking Year 10 to Castle Howard. It promises to be a fantastic trip and a memorable experience for all involved. Wishing everyone a lovely weekend ahead. Warm regards, Rebecca
Lulu Y11 Gibraltar Netball
HEC Day
Senior InterHouse Netball
WINNERS!!
Olivia Y10 England Cross Country
Davinci Decathalon
Well done to Maria Y9 and Olivia Y10 for taking part and both teams winning!
Junior House Newsletter 20/03/26
See what our Junior House has been up to this week...
Start!
Housemasters message
This week has been a lively and successful one. Our Junior House students excelled in the Da Vinci Decathlon, proudly finishing as Junior winners. The sunny weather meant plenty of outdoor sport, with football, rugby, and hockey enjoyed throughout the week. The house has been full of energy this week with students practicing instruments, writing songs, and chatting about holiday plans. On Sunday, a creative session also saw students painting the solar system on the art wall in house, producing some fantastic work that is there to showcase for the Junior House Information Morning this Saturday. It has been a positive and productive week, filled with achievement, creativity, and community spirit.
Start!
Next
Back
Mother's Day
Happy Mother's Day for last Sunday! Last week the students were busy making cards and getting gifts including pocket hugs and soap for all their wonderful mums. Alma above is making her card that she will give to her mum when she sees her in the holidays.
Start!
Next
Back
Birthdays 🎂
Happy Birthday to birthday twins Alice and Cleo for Wednesday. We hope you enjoyed your day celebrating with friends (and your cake!)
Start!
Next
Back
Village Shop 🍬
Last Sunday a few of the boarders walked to the village shop with Matron Tina. They picked up a variety of sweet treats. Alma on the other hand got coca cola, her favourite drink if you can't tell.
Start!
Next
Back
Sunday Painting 🎨
On Sunday students including Abena, Sabine, Marie, Carolina spent their time painting a solar system on the wall. There is an odd planet amongst them but don't worry it's only Marie planet painted purple and pink ombre with a multicoloured planetary ring.
Start!
Next
Back
Netball 🏐
On Thursday the girls had the task of teaching the boys who weren't playing in the hockey match the rules of netball. It was a fun activity which had both the girls and boys engaged. Everyone then got involved playing a mixed game of round robin. What a fun afternoon with the sun making an appearance!
Start!
Next
Back
Netball 🏐
Start!
More action shots of the afternoon!
Next
Back
Da Vinci Social
On Monday this week the boarders had a social in Windmill.
Start!
They had dinner and played games together with one of the other schools competing in the Da Vinci Decathlon.
Next
Back
Da Vinci Decathlon
On Tuesday this week George T, Toby, Abena, Cleo, Bruno, Carolina, Aleksandr and Annabelle competed in the National Da Vinci Decathlon. Our junior house team was successful winning 3 first places!! One in the junior code breaking challenge, one in the junior art and poetry challenge and one in the junior ideation challenge making them the overall junior winners! What amazing performance from the students. We are all so proud of their efforts!
Start!
Next
Back
Da Vinci Decathlon
Start!
Here are some action shots from the Da Vinci Decathlon
Next
Back
Marshmallows
This week, boarders had great fun toasting and burning marshmallows on the lawn outside EWs. Students took part in lighting the fire before grabbing their sticks and marshmallows to enjoy. Afterwards, the marshmallows gave them plenty of energy for football and hockey matches on the astro.
Start!
Next
Back
In the classroom
This week in Biology the Year 8s have been learning about the anatomy of the lungs. Miss Newbould gave them playdough so they could demonstrate their understanding of what lungs look like. Afterwards they learnt about what how the lungs and diaphragm work together to allow us to inhale and exhale.
Start!
Next
Back
In the classroom
Start!
Some action shots of the students making their lungs with playdough
Next
Back
Student of the week
This week Bruno has been selected as student of the week for not only his contribution to the Da Vinci Decathlon on Tuesday but he also played his first A team hockey match on Thursday after his commitment and dedication all season and hence he has shown big improvement over the season. Bruno is also one of the students that hasnt recieved a negative at all this term and it shows as he is consistently working hard in lessons, offers to help other students struggling with prep and is a smiling face and a helping hand around house. Keep up the great work Bruno!
Start!
Next
Back
Upcoming Events
SAC Inflatables This Saturday night, Years 7, 8 and 9 are going up to SAC to play some games with inflatables. It is sure to be a fun one! Sunday walk and chill The boarders will have the option on Sunday to take a nice walk to gilling to enjoy the sun and some chips at the fairfax. Others can stay in house and play games outside, read, paint and spend time with siblings. Movie Night Sunday evening will be a chill movie night in house as we prepare for the busy days ahead before the easter break. Weekend Sports Fixtures EWs have finished their fixtures for the season. Lets look forward to cricket season after the easter break!
Start!
Next
Back
Follow us....
Sports Fixtures Please follow this link to keep up to date with all our fixtures.
Password - Benedictine 1802
Next