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Boardington Bear Adventures: Sleep, Sights and Special Celebrations
Hello Everyone,
What a lovely and rather busy weekend it has been in the boarding house. Even a bear who enjoys a good nap found plenty to do and see.
On Saturday we celebrated World Sleep Day, which sounded like the perfect event for a bear like me. Bears are very good at sleeping, so I felt extremely qualified to support such an important day. A good rest helps everyone feel ready for the adventures ahead, although I did have to keep my naps quite short because we had a very exciting trip planned.
We travelled by train into London, which was an adventure in itself. I found a very good seat by the window and watched the countryside and city rush past as we made our way into the capital.
Our main destination was the National Gallery, and stepping inside was quite extraordinary. There were so many beautiful paintings, each with its own story to tell. I spent a long time wandering through the galleries, carefully studying the colours, the details and the incredible skill of the artists. I tried to stand very still and look thoughtful, like a proper art critic bear. Some of the paintings were enormous, and I had to tilt my little bear head right back to see them properly.
Before heading inside, I also made a very important stop in Trafalgar Square, where I paused for a photo with one of the famous lions. I must say, the lion looked very impressive indeed, although I think I held my own quite well next to such a grand statue. It was a perfect London moment and a photo opportunity no adventurous bear could possibly miss.
After exploring the gallery, we spent some time shopping around London, which is always full of energy and excitement. The streets were busy, the shop windows were bright and there was lots to see as we walked along together enjoying the atmosphere of the city.
Then something very exciting happened. While we were out and about, we spotted Olly Murs. There was a real buzz of excitement when everyone realised who it was. It was a very unexpected moment and certainly made the day even more memorable. Not every weekend trip includes a surprise celebrity sighting.
On Sunday we marked Mother’s Day, a lovely moment to pause and think about the people who care for us. Mothers come in many forms, and it was a chance to appreciate all the wonderful people who support, guide and look after us. In a boarding community there are many caring adults and friends who help make the boarding house feel like home, and it was a nice reminder to celebrate them all.
From art and shopping to a famous London lion and a surprise celebrity sighting, it has been a very special weekend. Even a bear who enjoys a good sleep would agree that it was worth staying awake for.
Until the next adventure,
Paws on the ground, news all around
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Boardington Bear Adventures: Science, Showcases and Spectacular STEM
Hello Everyone,
Curious bears and science experiments are always a good combination, and this week I had plenty of opportunities to put my investigative bear brain to work.
The highlight of the week was our Festival of STEM, which brought students from across the College, and even some visiting local primary schools, together for a wonderful celebration of science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine. The school was full of energy as students explored experiments, demonstrations and hands-on activities.
I padded around the different stations making sure I didn’t miss anything exciting. Our senior students were leading many of the activities, guiding younger pupils through experiments and discussions. It was fantastic to see them sharing their knowledge and helping others discover new ideas. The Prep students and visiting pupils were fully involved, asking questions, testing things out and learning by doing. I sat nearby, looking very thoughtful and nodding wisely whenever something impressive happened.
One of my favourite parts was meeting some fascinating new scientific friends. I came face to face with emperor butterflies, which were very elegant, watched some very busy stick insects, and even met a rather calm gecko who seemed completely unfazed by having a bear admire it so closely.
I also had the chance to take part in a science experiment myself, which I approached with great care and concentration. And perhaps the most magical thing I saw all week was a 3D printer at work. I watched in amazement as it slowly built an object layer by layer. I stood very still so I wouldn’t disturb the process, although I did lean in quite close to see how it worked.
Later in the week we also had Year 13 Parents’ Evening, where students spoke with their teachers and families about their progress and plans for the future. I listened in from a nearby chair, feeling very proud of how confident and thoughtful our students are as they prepare for their next steps.
We finished the week in style with the Dance Showcase, where students took to the stage and performed beautifully. The theatre was full of energy, music and impressive routines. I clapped my paws enthusiastically for every performance and was very glad I had managed to find such a good seat.
From science discoveries and fascinating creatures to impressive performances, it has been a week full of curiosity, creativity and excitement. A very good week for a curious bear.
Until the next adventure,
Paws on the ground, news all around
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Boardington Bear Adventures: Bargains, Bites and a Brilliant Day Out
Hello everyone,
It’s me, Boardington Bear, back with a very exciting weekend adventure to share, and oh my paws, what a delicious and delightful day it was.This weekend we hopped onto the mini bus and set off for a trip to Braintree Freeport Outlet Village. It was the first time we had done this trip, so there was lots of excitement and curiosity about what the day would bring. I sat very patiently on the journey, looking out of the window and planning my shopping strategy.
When we arrived, I could hardly believe my little bear eyes. There were so many shops set up in a little village circle, making it feel like a cosy shopping town all of its own. Everywhere I looked there were bright signs, busy walkways and plenty of opportunities for a shopping bear like me.
Even better, the shopping village was dog friendly, which meant there were my little four legged friends everywhere. I spotted wagging tails, happy faces and plenty of excited pups enjoying their own shopping day. I kept a close eye on them all, of course. A bear must always greet fellow furry friends.
Of course, I had a few favourite stops. The Cadbury shop was absolutely wonderful, full of chocolatey goodness and treats in every direction. I inspected everything very carefully, as you would expect. Then came the Haribo shop, which might just be one of the happiest places on earth. Bright colours, sweet smells and jars full of sweets made it very difficult to choose. I decided to treat myself to a big pick and mix and even a Haribo mystery bag, which was filled with all sorts of surprises. I was a very happy and very spoilt bear indeed.
In between all the shopping, I also found time for a very special treat, a churro covered in chocolate with strawberries. It was warm, sweet and absolutely delicious. I may have needed a little sit down afterwards, but it was completely worth it.
I explored many, many shops, had a good look at everything and even found myself a pair of bear sized Crocs, which I am very proud of. A bear must be both stylish and comfortable.
After a full day of shopping, eating and exploring, we returned to the mini bus for the journey home, bags in hand and smiles all around. We made it back just in time for dinner, which was perfect timing after such a busy day.
As it was our first time visiting, I can confidently say that it was a great success, and I very much hope it becomes a regular adventure. I certainly would not mind another visit.
Until the next adventure,
Paws on the ground, news all around
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World Boarding Staff Day
Celebrating the Heart of Boarding Life – By the Head of Boarding
World Boarding Staff Day gives us a moment to pause, reflect, and recognise the extraordinary people who make boarding houses feel like home.
It is often said that it takes a very special kind of person to work in boarding, and that could not be more true.
Boarding is not just a job. It is a way of life.
It requires strength, kindness, patience, resilience, flexibility, and, very often, a good sense of humour. It requires people who can adapt at a moment’s notice, who can offer calm in moments of crisis, and who can celebrate joy in the smallest of everyday successes. It requires people who give endlessly of their time, energy, and care.
From the outside, it might seem simple. But those who know boarding understand that it is anything but.
Boarding staff are there for everything.
They are there in the early mornings, helping students start their day with reassurance and structure. They are there during the busy school day, quietly supporting, guiding, and checking in. And they are there in the evenings, when the real heart of boarding comes to life, helping with homework, listening to worries, celebrating achievements, and creating a sense of belonging.
They see students at their very best, their most challenging, and everything in between.
They are the ones who sit beside a student who is missing home.
They are the ones who accompany hospital visits and appointments.
They are the ones who help prepare for exams, read through coursework, and run revision sessions late into the evening.
They are the ones who organise activities, trips, and celebrations, from quiet movie nights to full scale events that require hundreds of balloons and endless creativity.And they do all of this while making it look effortless.
At St Francis’ College, boarding staff go far beyond their job descriptions. They are mentors, carers, organisers, listeners, problem solvers, and, above all, consistent and trusted adults in our students’ lives.
For some students, boarding staff are simply a reassuring presence in the background, someone they know is always there if needed. For others, they become like family, the person they turn to first, the person who understands them, and the person who helps them navigate both the highs and the lows of growing up away from home.
It is this balance, being both present and patient, supportive yet empowering, that makes boarding staff so unique.
Having been part of St Francis’ College for over nine years, it has been an absolute privilege to work alongside such an incredible range of individuals in the Boarding House. Every member of staff has brought something different, different personalities, different strengths, different perspectives, but all united by one shared purpose, putting the students at the heart of everything they do.
Boarding staff are dedicated.
They are flexible.
They are patient.
And, above all, they are givers.Their impact is often seen in the quiet moments rather than the loud ones, in the conversations that happen behind closed doors, in the reassurance given when no one else sees, and in the consistent care that allows students to feel safe, secure, and supported.
The true measure of boarding staff is reflected in the voices of those they support. Time and time again, parents and guardians express their gratitude for the care, compassion, and dedication shown to their children, for the reassurance when they are far from home, and for the knowledge that their children are not just looked after, but genuinely cared for.
Boarding is a world filled with stories, moments of laughter, challenge, growth, and connection. It is often said that there is a sitcom waiting to be written about life in a boarding house, and anyone who has worked in one would agree. But beyond the humour and the busy routines lies something much deeper, a community built on trust, kindness, and unwavering support.
On World Boarding Staff Day, we celebrate the people who make this possible.
The ones who go above and beyond every single day.
The ones who make sacrifices that often go unseen.
The ones who create a home away from home.And the ones who leave a lasting imprint on the lives of the students they support.
Because long after students leave, it is not just the lessons they remember, it is the people.
Today, we say thank you to every member of boarding staff.
For your care.
For your dedication.
For your patience.
For your humour.And for everything you do, every single day.
Boarding is not just where students stay, it is where they grow, belong, and are truly supported. And that is because of you.
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Boardington Bear Adventures: Pancakes, Petals and Plenty of Fun
Hello everyone,
It’s me, Boardington Bear, and oh my paws, it is so good to have everyone back. The boarding house has gone from quiet and sleepy to busy, chatty and full of laughter again, just how I like it.Our boarders returned from half term full of stories, snacks and smiles, especially those who had been celebrating Lunar New Year with their families. There was lots of excitement, happy chatter and plenty of sharing. I listened very carefully, of course, and nodded along like a very knowledgeable bear, even though I was mostly thinking about the food.
It has also been a very busy week for our students. Our Year 13s have been tackling their mock A Level exams, and they have been working incredibly hard. There has been lots of quiet concentration, serious faces and determined studying. I have been doing my part by sitting nearby, looking wise and offering silent encouragement. A supportive bear makes all the difference.
Our Year 8 students had their parents evening, and I was very proud to see them talking confidently about their learning. There were smiles, thoughtful conversations and a real sense of growing confidence. I made sure to sit up extra straight whenever anyone walked past. Appearances matter.
Then came one of my favourite moments of the week, the pancake racing house competition. Oh my whiskers, what a sight. There were pancakes flying, students racing and plenty of laughter. Some pancakes made it to the finish line, others had slightly more adventurous journeys. I stayed safely to the side, as I am not convinced pancakes and bears should mix at high speed.
We also had something very special when some of our students made Tanghulu to share with their classmates. The shiny, sugar coated fruit looked like little jewels. I inspected it very carefully and can confirm it looked absolutely delicious. Sharing food is always one of my favourite ways to bring everyone together.
And just when I thought the week could not get any better, I noticed something exciting. Spring is on its way. The trees are starting to bloom, daffodils are peeking through the ground and the air feels just a little bit brighter. I paused for a moment to admire the flowers, which is quite unusual for a busy bear, but even I can appreciate a good bloom.
With everyone back, exams underway, pancakes flying and spring beginning to appear, it has been a wonderful start to the new half term. The boarding house is full of energy again and I am ready for whatever comes next.
Until the next adventure,
Paws on the ground, news all around
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Boardington Bear Adventures: Kindness, Cakes and Cosy Comforts
Hello everyone,
It’s me, Boardington Bear, back with another heart-warming update from the boarding house. This week has been full of kindness, celebration, baking and looking after one another, and my paws have been busy from start to finish.
This week we marked Children’s Mental Health Week, with this year’s theme being “This is My Place”. It has been a special time to reflect on where we feel safe, supported and that we belong. Across the boarding house there have been thoughtful conversations, quiet moments and lots of encouragement to look after ourselves and each other. I made sure to be extra available for hugs, friendly company and listening ears. A bear knows how important it is to feel at home and part of something special.
There was also lots of activity in the kitchen as we baked cookies and cupcakes for the Year 8 bake sale. The kitchen quickly filled with delicious smells and plenty of mixing, decorating and careful taste testing. The bake sale raised money for two wonderful causes, supporting SPACE, a charity for young people who are neurodivergent, and Cancer Research. It was lovely to see everyone working together for such important charities, and I was very proud of all the effort that went into it.
We also had a wonderfully relaxed Loungewear Day, raising money for Place2Be, where students were able to wear their pyjamas to school. The boarding house and classrooms were filled with cosy outfits, soft fabrics and lots of comfortable smiles. It made the whole day feel calm, relaxed and homely, which was a perfect way to support the message of looking after our wellbeing. I, of course, stayed in my cosiest fur and felt very much part of the occasion.
This week we also celebrated three boarder birthdays, which of course meant lots of cake, presents and big smiles. I was on hand to help with the celebrations, joining in the singing and making sure each birthday felt special. A week with cake is always a good week.
We also marked Umbrella Day, which felt very fitting as the weather has been as unpredictable as ever. I made sure to stay close to shelter, although I did enjoy watching everyone splashing through the puddles.
And just like that, the week has come to an end and it is time to pack up for half term. Suitcases have appeared, rooms are being tidied and there is a buzz of excitement as everyone prepares for a well deserved break. I stood by the door, waving goodbye and wishing everyone a happy and restful holiday.
It has been a week full of kindness, community and care, a perfect way to end the half term.
Until the next adventure,
Paws on the ground, news all around
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Children’s Mental Health Week 2026
This Is My Place A Year 10 Boarder’s Perspective 💛
When people hear the word boarding they often think it is just about sleeping somewhere that is not home. But for me boarding is so much more than that. It is a place where I feel safe understood and supported. It is where I belong. That is why this year’s Children’s Mental Health Week theme This Is My Place feels especially meaningful.
Living in the boarding house means being surrounded by people who become part of your everyday life. We do not just share corridors and bedrooms. We share meals laughter late night chats stressful exam weeks and the small moments that really matter. There is always someone around whether you need help with homework someone to talk to when you are feeling low or just a friendly face after a long day.
One of the best things about boarding is the sense of community. Everyone looks out for each other. The boarding staff play a huge part in this. They help us settle in check in on us when we are tired or stressed and are always there to listen. They notice when something is not quite right and make sure we are okay. Knowing there are adults who genuinely care about how we are feeling makes the boarding house feel safe and supportive.
The boarding house also feels like a second family. It is a place where you are accepted for who you are where friendships grow naturally and where you are never really alone. Even when you miss home there is comfort in knowing you are surrounded by people who care about you and want the best for you not just academically but emotionally too.
For me this is my place because it is where I feel I can be myself. It is where I have learned how important belonging is for mental health and how feeling safe supported and understood can help you face challenges with confidence. During Children’s Mental Health Week it is a reminder that having a place like this a community a family a home away from home really does make all the difference 💛
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Boardington Bear Adventures: Frozen Magic, Proud Paws and a Night to Remember
Hello everyone,
It’s me, Boardington Bear, and I simply must tell you about one of the most magical evenings I have ever experienced in the boarding house. It was opening night of Frozen, and our boarders and staff were lucky enough to attend. Oh my paws, what a night it was.
From the very moment we arrived, the atmosphere was electric. There was excitement in the air, hushed whispers of anticipation and that special feeling you only get when something truly wonderful is about to begin. When the lights went down, the magic began.
The lighting and visual effects were absolutely incredible. Ice sparkled, colours shifted beautifully and the stage transformed before our eyes. The costumes were stunning, with so much detail and care clearly poured into every single one. It was obvious that an enormous amount of time, effort and love had gone into the production, and it showed in every scene.
The music, the stage production, the movement and the storytelling all came together perfectly. Frozen is a complex and demanding show, but the dedication of everyone involved paid off completely. The performances were confident, emotional and full of energy. I could hardly stay still in my seat. I clapped my paws as hard as I possibly could and felt unbelievably proud.
Our boarders who attended said it was the best show they have ever seen at the school. They spoke about how magical it was, how special it felt and how they will remember it always. Hearing that made my bear heart feel very full indeed.
I also know just how hard the boarders who were part of the show have been practising. Long rehearsals, lots of commitment and real determination went into preparing for this moment, and it has so clearly paid off. Every single person involved should be incredibly proud of what they achieved.
It truly was a night of Frozen magic, unforgettable performances and a whole lot of pride.
Until the next adventure,
Paws on the ground, news all around
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Boardington Bear Adventures: Rehearsals, Rainbows and Responsible Routines
Hello everyone,
It’s me, Boardington Bear, back with another weekly review from our ever busy boarding house. It has been a week full of creativity, colour, learning and a few very tasty moments too.Rehearsals have continued at full pace for the school musical Frozen, and oh my paws, everyone is working incredibly hard. Each day brings more polish, more confidence and more magic. Lines are being perfected, songs are growing stronger and the stage is coming alive piece by piece. I have been popping in to rehearsals whenever I can, sitting proudly at the side and watching the dedication unfold. It has been amazing to see how much effort everyone is putting in and how it all starts to come together.
Over in the Prep Department it was Numbers Day, and it was wonderful to see so much excitement around maths. There were numbers everywhere, problem solving activities and lots of creative ways to make maths fun. I wandered past feeling very impressed by the enthusiasm and concentration on display.
We also celebrated Funky Sock Friday, which is always one of my favourite days. The boarding house was filled with bright colours, stripes, spots and some truly bold sock choices. I made sure to admire as many pairs as possible, and I must say my favourite socks of all were covered in rainbows. A bear appreciates good sock confidence, especially when it comes in every colour.
Another highlight of the week was World Nutella Day, which is always a favourite around here. There were smiles, happy faces and plenty of excitement whenever Nutella was mentioned. I may have hovered nearby just in case a spoon was left unattended. Quality control is important.
Behind the scenes, the electrician visited to carry out PAT testing on all the electrical items in the boarding house. While it was all very official and important, I must admit that I learnt a lot watching the process. I discovered why checking plugs, leads and appliances matters so much and how it helps keep everyone safe. I feel much wiser now. A safety aware bear is a happy bear.
So with rehearsals continuing, socks getting funkier, Nutella being celebrated, numbers being enjoyed and safety checks completed, it has been another full and productive week in boarding.
Until the next adventure,
Paws on the ground, news all around
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#BoardingNotBoring
By a Year 10 Boarder
When people hear the word boarding, they usually imagine strict rules, silence, and missing home all the time. I’ll be honest, that’s what I thought before I started too. But now that I’m in Year 10, I can confidently say one thing: boarding is definitely not boring.
A normal day in boarding actually feels quite balanced. After school, we all head back together, which is nice because you’re never on your own unless you want to be. There’s always someone to talk to in the common room, whether it’s about homework, what happened in lessons, or something completely random. Even homework time isn’t as bad as it sounds. Having everyone around makes it easier to focus, and if you’re stuck, there’s always someone who can help.
Evenings are one of my favourite parts of boarding life. Some nights are chilled, watching a film, chatting, or just relaxing, and other nights there are activities like baking, games, crafts, or sports. Whether it’s a kickabout, a fitness session, or just being active with friends, it’s a great way to unwind after a long school day. It’s really up to you how involved you want to be, which I like. There’s no pressure, but there’s always something going on if you’re in the mood.
Weekends are when boarding really comes alive. Sometimes we go on trips, sometimes we stay in and do activities, and sometimes it’s just nice to have a slow morning and brunch with friends. It doesn’t feel like school at the weekend. It feels more like being part of a big house where everyone knows each other.
Of course, boarding isn’t perfect. You do miss home sometimes, especially when you’re tired or stressed. But what makes the difference is the people. Your friends become like family, and the boarding staff genuinely care and notice when you’re not yourself. There’s always someone to talk to, even if you don’t realise you need it at first.
Being a boarder has helped me become more independent and confident. You learn how to manage your time, look after yourself, and support others too. And honestly, the memories you make, the shared meals, the sports sessions, the late night laughs, and the random conversations, are the things you don’t forget.
So if anyone asks me what boarding is really like, my answer is simple.
Busy, fun, supportive, and full of moments that make you feel like you belong.#BoardingNotBoring
About the Blog
Welcome to the Boarding House Blog, your inside guide to life in our vibrant boarding community. Join us as we share stories, adventures, and the everyday magic that makes boarding life so special.
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