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The News 1 May 2026

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The News 1 May 2026

College

St Bede's

St DO's

St Aidan's

St CT's

Junior House

St Hugh's

St John's

St Margaret's

St Margaret's

Message from the Headmaster

The first public examinations of the summer have been completed with a few more next week before they kick off in full from Monday 11th May. All pupils taking these important exams are in our prayers at this time. I was in Spain this week recruiting new families to Ampleforth with Fr Cedd and Harriet Langdale. We had a very fruitful evening in Barcelona on Tuesday followed by a particularly busy reception in Madrid on Wednesday. Our thanks go to all parents who came and supported us and particularly to Javier Raventos for all his work to make the Barcelona event such a success, and to Alejandra and Michael Brennan for hosting so many people in their beautiful home in Madrid. We are looking forward to meeting many more prospective families at our Open Morning tomorrow. The Valley will be full again on Sunday, when 37 students will be receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation, supported by their families, godparents and the whole school community. We are blessed to have Bishop Marcus celebrating. We pray that all our confirmandi deepen their relationship with God and are inspired by the Holy Spirit. While Monday is a bank holiday in the UK, school life continues in the Valley. However, it is a particularly fun Monday as the Y9-13 pupils will be off lessons all afternoon enjoying our annual inter-house Athletics competition. Let’s hope this glorious sunshine continues! Best wishes, Jon

Inter House Debating

We held a very enjoyable inter-house debating competition this afternoon. Despite the sunshine and the warm breeze, five houses braved a couple of hours in the English corridor for a successful set of qualifying ’speed’ debates, followed by a final BPS-style debate (democracy is no longer fit for purpose). Many thanks to Gaelle McGovern and Joe Coughlan for giving up their time and acting as thoughtful and fair judges. Thank you also to Rebecca Paterson, Fr Ambrose and Rory Kobrin for feeding the Hugh’s boys during BBQ-gate, which allowed me to prepare the debates. Congratulations to St John’s for a very well deserved second place. Please do congratulate Theo Carter, William Yaxley and Nico Fernandez-Jurgens when you see them. And congratulations to Paul Muscat and Seb Muscat from St Hugh’s for winning the contest (the judges were scrupulously fair…).

William (12CT) Qualifies for Royal International Horse Show

Following his recent qualification for the Royal International Horse Show at Lincoln Show Ground, William (12CT) had more success at the BSPS Area 1A show at Northallerton Equestrian Centre last weekend, qualifying his second horse for the Royal International Horse Show in the 153cm Show Hunter Pony and Dragonara classes. Will, a member of our NSEA Equestrian team and also of the Rocket Club, is studying Physics, Maths, DT and Enterprise & Entrepreneurship in the Sixth Form. On Friday afternoons, when the whole school takes part in a huge range of activities, he uses the time to ride his horses in preparation for qualifying rounds and this hard work is clearly paying off for him. Very best of luck Will for the Championships in July.

Charity Clay Pigeon Shoot

Our Country Sports students enjoyed a simulated clay pigeon shoot last Sunday, joined by parents and a strong turnout of Old Amplefordians. Students were split into three teams, with each shooter supported by a parent or peer acting as their ‘loader’, creating a real sense of teamwork throughout the afternoon. There was a wonderful atmosphere, with plenty of friendly competition - particularly between fathers and sons - as everyone vied to hit the most clays. It was especially pleasing to see so many OAs back at the College, adding to the community spirit of the event. The afternoon concluded with a delicious BBQ enjoyed in glorious sunshine. Country Sports remain a popular part of life at Ampleforth, with students able to take part in a range of pursuits in the Valley, including Shooting, Gamekeeping and Fishing.

Charity Clay Pigeon Shoot

Ampleforth Highlanders Pipe Band visit Aysgarth School

On Tuesday the Ampleforth Highlanders Pipe Band visited Aysgarth School where the two pipe bands joined forces to lead assembly with impressive performances of The Water is Wide, Highland Cathedral and Scotland the Brave. Pipe Major Bryan Robinson gave pupils an insight into learning the pipes and a chance to have a go at the drums. Did you know bagpipes don’t actually stop playing when the musician takes a breath? The bag acts as an air reservoir, allowing a continuous sound while the player inhales, giving bagpipes their powerful, unbroken tone.

Junior Mathematics Challenge

On Wednesday, our Junior House pupils took part in the Junior Mathematical Challenge – a national competition designed to stretch and inspire young problem-solvers. It was a fantastic opportunity for students to immerse themselves in creative thinking and tackle puzzles that really test their logic and perseverance. We were delighted to see 23 pupils choose to get involved, all embracing the challenge and enjoying the experience. Fancy giving one of the questions a go? - "In how many ways can all the digits 1–9 be placed in a 3×3 grid so that the sum of the numbers in each row is even and the sum of the numbers in each column is odd?"

Boys' Tennis v Sedbergh

Girls' Cricket v Dame Allans

Message from Mrs Dent

We eased into the new week with our first BBQ of the summer on Sunday and how wonderful it was to bask in the sunshine and use the garden we are so lucky to have at the centre of the house. It was made all the better by hosting St Bede's, providing the chance to catch up with friends within and beyond the house in a relaxed setting. The weather has continued to be kind to us this week and has facilitated much needed time outdoors - perfect for all the girls, but not least examination groups who have relished the chance to switch off a little between revision sessions and lessons. Wednesday was 'House Photo' day and we look forward to seeing the results, which will also be ready for Exhibition weekend. We're looking forward to a busy weekend, with Confirmations taking place in the Abbey Church on Sunday - congratulations go to Emma and Edie who are taking this important step in their faith, with family and friends joining as witness. We are throwing the doors of St Aidan's open tomorrow for prospective students and parents to visit at this weekend's Open Day. We're looking forward to showcasing the best of boarding life. Interhouse Athletics on Monday afternoon promises great fun as ever and will certainly soften the blow of a school day on Bank Holiday! Wishing you all a good week ahead.

Ceri Dent, Housemistress St Aidan's House

Celebrating Jasmine's success: Step into Law Programme

We are delighted to share the exciting news that Jasmine (Yr13) has secured a place on the highly competitive A&O Shearman Step into Law programme, attending her first day with the firm during the Easter break. This is a significant achievement and an excellent early milestone for Jasmine, who is aspiring to study law at univeristy, with an offer in place from the London School of Economics. The programme offers students first‑hand insight into the world of commercial law at a leading global firm, through a series of workshops, practical case studies and mentoring from experienced legal professionals. Alongside developing her understanding of how law operates in real‑world contexts, Jasmine will gain valuable guidance on pathways into the legal profession.

Jasmine

Of particular note is that the programme does not end with the initial placement. Participants may go on to access ongoing mentoring and careers support through their time at university, helping them navigate degree choices, work experience opportunities and future applications. This sustained guidance provides Jasmine with an invaluable bridge between school, university and professional life. Securing a place on a programme of this calibre reflects Jasmine’s ambition, curiosity and commitment to her future studies. We are incredibly proud of her achievement and look forward to seeing how she builds on this outstanding opportunity as she prepares for a future in law.

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.

The News 1st May 2026 St Bede's House

6th Form Friendship Ball April 2026

6th Form Friendship Ball April 2026

6th Form Friendship Ball April 2026

6th Form Friendship Ball April 2026

6th Form Friendship Ball April 2026

6th Form Friendship Ball April 2026

6th Form Friendship Ball April 2026

Nancy out on the Clay Shoot

So lovely to have some Professional Theatre Photos of our Audrey

Thursday Night is Ceasar Salad Night in House. Thank you Matron Kate.

A few changes to our beautiful House - Our Home.

A few changes to our beautiful House - Our Home.

Kiki been busy in the House Garden

Examinations are underway for many of our Girls :

EXHIBITION 2026

Friday 22 & Saturday 23 May - Book accommodation if required. Please join us for Exhibition, our Annual Whole School Celebration and gathering. On Friday evening there is Mass (7pm), and supper for all parents & pupils (6pm for Y7&8; 8.15pm for everyone else). On Saturday morning we have Senior Prizegiving (10.30am) while Junior House families play cricket (10am), followed by BBQ lunch, entertainment, exhibitions of students’ work, sports competitions for parents & pupils, a concert, and a performance of the Exhibition Play. The day finishes at 5pm. Year 13 & their parents return for the Leavers’ Ball at 7pm. We recommend booking accommodation early.

Dates for the Diary May 2026

Sunday 3: RC Confirmation Weekend Saturday 23: Exhibition - students may depart from 4pm. Exhibition finishes by 5pm. Year 13 & Parents Leavers Ball from 7pm Sunday 24: Half-Term - all departures on 23 May Sunday 3 June: Boarders return between 6-10pm

Dates for the Diary June 2026

Sunday 14: Church of England Confirmation Service Monday 15: YEAR 9 Exams begin - revision work will be set over May half-term Friday 26: Junior House Sports Day & Prize Giving Saturday 27: End of Term: departures between 7-10am inc School Travel services Those collected by parents/guardians or on escorted School Travel may leave from 5pm on Friday 26 June.

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.

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St Bede's House, Ampleforth College

@stbedeshouseampleforth

The Sun is Shining!

Well, as the sun beams down on the valley, we find ourselves in full swing again. Y10 have just completed their end of year assessments with results next week. Y12 have been given feedback on their trial assessments too, and now look to life beyond the valley and UCAS applications as the term develops. Y13 and Y11 are focusing on the end of the year, with the first GCSE papers starting within a week. But, as always, there is still time for a little fun and the opportunity to unwind - which I hope will be evident from the following... This Sunday is a special one, with a large group of boys being confirmed. It is always a real joy to be part of their day. I hope to see many of you on Sunday.

Saturday Y10 Social

Saturday Y10 Social

Saturday Y10 Social

Tennis v Sedbergh

Tennis v Sedbergh

Friendship Ball

Friendship Ball

Friendship Ball

Simulated Clay Shooting

Simulated Clay Shooting

Simulated Clay Shooting

Simulated Clay Shooting

Simulated Clay Shooting

Catching Up with Javier

House Photographs (sneak peek)

Pupdate - Out and About

Follow us on social media for updates!

Message from the Housemaster

Another beautiful and sunny week in the valley. The year 10s have now finished their exams and are enjoying a trip out to play Padel.Tomorrow, DO's will be on show during the Open Morning and on Sunday we are looking forward to Maks, Eddie, Dom, Freddie and Alvaro being confirmed. Sunday evening, we will host the inaugural year 9 inter house Games competition in DO's, pictures to follow.

Clay pigeon shoot

A good number of parents joined their "children" on Saturday afternoon in the clay pigeon shoot. It was a fantastic afternoon enjoyed by everyone.

Clay pigeon shoot

Although Antonius's parents were unable to attend, he was not at all lonely...

Clay pigeon shoot

Freddie keeping himself busy by being his usual helpful self.

Clay pigeon shoot

Caspar and his mother enjoyed every minute of their weekend together.

Clay pigeon shoot

Sporting Success

I am happy to report that our boys won almost all of their matches against Sedbergh.

Sporting Success

Sporting Success

Sporting Success

Sporting Success

Saturday Social

On Saturday night, our Sixth Formers were looking forward to the Friendship Ball. Our four probationary monitors Nolan, Oscar, Josh and Justus looking very smart indeed.

Saturday Social

Jonty and Teddy were so keen, they were one of the first to arrive.

Saturday Social

William mixing with other houses. Good on you.

Saturday Social

Jonty, Teddy and George: Just class!

Saturday Social

Charles and Antonius could have done with a shave before the event. Oh well, they will learn...

Saturday Social

Saturday Social

Ambrose and George attacking the chocolate fountain.

Saturday Social

In the background, Justus, Nico and Josh photobombing.

Sunday Mass

Jonty leading the way as Thurifer in Mass.

Food, glorious food

After Mass, the boys enjoyed the first BBQ of this calendar year.

Food, glorious food

A very hungry Ambrose making sure he is the first in the queue.

Food, glorious food

Afterwards they spent the rest of the afternoon playing Games in the glorious sunshine.

Food, glorious food

Whereas Oli and Cassius took an afternoon nap. "Don't forget the sun cream, chaps!"

Sunday night is Deli Night

Of course, a few hours later they were hungry again after the BBQ and dinner in the refs, so Deli Night was received with gratitude.

Sunday night is Deli Night

Sunday night is Deli Night

Sunday night is Deli Night

Our house organist and music grad Mr Butterfield did a great job preparing the cheesy nachos.

Sunday night is Deli Night

Monday Blues? Quite the oppossite.

Monday morning saw the beginning of the year 10 exam week. First thing was instructions to all in Big Study.

Monday Blues? Quite the oppossite.

In the evening, Ambrose fulfilled a dream by being allowed to sing as cantor in our sung compline.He contributions were ... loud.

New phone rules

The new term has seen changes to the Sixth Form phone rules. From 10pm until 5pm the following day, no pupil is allowed a mobile phone. In DO's, we immediately invested in phone safes.

School Photos

On Tuesday, school photos were taken. These will be available to purchase very soon.

School Photos

School Photos

The "fun" leavers picture...

School Photos

School Photos

School Photos

School Photos

Happy birthday

On Wednesday, we celebrated Maks's 17th birthday.

House Mass

On Thursday evening, we celebrated a combined Mass in the crypt of the Abbey church with St John's. One boy from John's, Tom, was welcomed into the Catholic church.

mens sana in corpore sano

Friday morning 7am:Javier, Paddy, Arthus and Pablo about to go on their morning run. Alvaro on his way to SAC to join his fellow year 10s in the gym.

Last but not least #1

Our year 9s have been organising an inter house games competition for their year group this Sunday.Let's see which house comes first in a variety of events such as penalty shoot out, golf, pool, darts, FIFA and more.

Last but not least #2

Our house ferret Martini has had two hernias and needed surgery. As he would nibble away at the stitches, the poor chap has been put in plaster. We are hopeful that he will rejoin us soon.

Welcome

The weather has held up this week and it has, once again, been a glorious week at College. It has been such a pleasure to see them making use of the outdoors for organised sports, for spontaneous fun and even for work! A particular highlight for me this week was our success in the Inter-House Debating Competition, which followed the Hugh's Seniors win in the Cross-Country last term - adding another trophy to our cabinet.

It has, as ever, been busy. Our Year 10s have successfully navigated their trial exams; Year 11 begin public exams next week.

Enjoying the sun & time together

The good weather has meant lots of time making the most of the valley. But there have been plenty of opportunitiies to spend time together in house as well.

Friendship Ball

Before the Sixth Form went up to the Friendship Ball, there was some disagreement about whether they would enjoy the evening. A change to routine is often unwelcome and The Windmill plays a big role... But the evening was great fun and there were lots of happy, tired boys returning, some of whom had even been dancing...

Clay Shoot

It was lovely to welcome lots of families to the valley for Clay Shoot. The boys returned in high spirits and had clearly thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon. Plenty more opportunities coming up over the summer term on Sundays.

Tennis

Alongside the cricket, there has been plenty of tennis training and matches as well, with Hugh's boys representing College against Sedbergh.

Dear Parents We’ve had a truly fabulous week here at St Margaret’s, filled with celebrations, special moments, and plenty of sunshine. A highlight of the week was Anina’s baptism into the Catholic Church, led by Fr Oswald. The house was lucky enough to be there to witness such a beautiful and meaningful service an occasion we’ll all remember. We’ve also been celebrating some milestone birthdays. A very happy 18th birthday to Bay & Mollie and 16th to Lulu & Marie! We hope you had wonderful days filled with joy. The sunshine has been a welcome guest, and with it, games and outdoor fun have been in full swing. It’s been lovely to see everyone making the most of the good weather. There’s lots to look forward to as we prepare to welcome many parents to the valley for Confirmation weekend. We’re excited for the upcoming trips out and social events it promises to be a lively and memorable time. Warm regards, Rebecca

Message from Ms Paterson

Friendship Ball

Happy Birthday Lulu & Marie!

Happy Birthday Bay & Mollie!

Junior House Newsletter 01/05/26

See what our Junior House has been up to this week...

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Housemasters message

This week has been a vibrant and active one, with plenty happening both in and out of the classroom. The weekend started with parents day last Saturday which was a real highlight, offering a chance to connect with the parents and share in the life of the school community. On Sunday, it was wonderful to see Bruno, Abena, Max, Olek and Juan all taking part in Sunday Mass, either reading or assisting, contributing confidently to the service. Throughout the week, house, tutor group and sports photos were taken and with the nice weather this week, pupils have made the most of their time outdoors. Break times and evenings after supper have been filled with a wide range of sports, with plenty of opportunities for everyone to get involved. We now look ahead to another exciting week, beginning with Open Morning this Saturday, followed by the York trip on Sunday—both events we anticipate with great enthusiasm.

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Parents Day

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It was great to welcome so many families into the valley last weekend for parents day. We hope you enjoyed the concert that the students put on to showcase their progress in music lessons this year.

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Parents Day

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Parents Day

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🎾 Sports 🏏

Last weekend we also had the boys U13A cricket match against Dame Allans and the boys U14A tennis match against Sedbergh. Both matches were unfortunately a loss but the team worked hard and stayed committed throughout.

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Sunday Mass

Last Sunday at mass, Bruno, Max and Abena did a reading in front of the whole school! Juan, Bruno and Oleksander then also helped father Ambrose in the proceedings of mass. You read with confidence and your actions were exemplary of core Ampleforth values.

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Village shop

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Tony and Max walking together all the way back from the shop

Hector, Bertrand and Juan walking together

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On Sunday, we went for a lovely walk to the village shop in the sunshine where we picked up some delicious treats.

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Upcoming Events

Saturday night social The boarders will be having a sports night on the astro with a BBQ dinner! Sunday York Trip On Sunday the boarders are heading to York. They can explore the city, get lunch together or go shopping with their friends. Saturday Sport Cricket- U13A girls and boys teams are playing away at Scarborough college. The match starts at 14:15 and they will return by 18:30. Boys Tennis- U13Bs are playing friendly king of the court tennis at home from 13:30- 14:30. Upcoming dinners - 2nd May is Schola dinner - 9th May is Hockey and Netball dinners

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