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Boardington Bear Adventures: Christmas Trees, Choirs and Chocolate Pastry Cheer
Hello everyone,
It’s me, Boardington Bear, back again with another festive update from our very busy and beautifully decorated boarding house. Christmas is well on its way, and my paws have been everywhere this week helping bring sparkle, music and delicious smells into the air.
We have now finished putting up all of our Christmas decorations and the house looks absolutely magical. The most spectacular feature of all is our brand new Bear Christmas Tree, made entirely from my fellow boarding bears. We are stacked and perched in a perfect spiral shape, wrapped gently around the tree structure from bottom to top like a fluffy helter skelter. Twinkling fairy lights weave through our arms and paws, silver tinsal drapes around us like icy garlands, and shiny Christmas baubles hang between us and glint like winter stars. I am proud to say it might be the softest and most splendidly cuddly Christmas tree ever created.
This week we also enjoyed a delicious baking activity, making a chocolate spread puff pastry Christmas tree. Flaky golden pastry twisted into branches, filled with warm chocolate and baked to the perfect festive crispness. The smell alone could make any bear melt. It was almost too beautiful to eat, although we happily did so anyway.
We then gathered together to take the boarders group photo for our Christmas card. Everyone looked fantastic and full of cheer, Christmas colours bright, smiles wide and spirits high. I sat as still as I could, posing carefully because photo taking is serious business for a bear, and together we captured the perfect seasonal image.
Our week continued in musical style with the exciting House Music Contest. All four houses performed prep song, senior song and whole house pieces. The hall filled with voices, confidence and friendly competition, and I clapped my paws proudly from the audience.
Our Boarders Choir has also grown beautifully and now includes a mini orchestra. Strings and piano blend warmly under the voices of our singers, creating a sound as comforting as hot chocolate on a frosty morning. Even rehearsal feels like a celebration.
With bears twinkling on the Christmas tree, pastries enjoyed, music filling our halls and everyone full of festive energy, the boarding house is sparkling more than ever. This bear could not feel more joyful.
Until the next adventure,
Paws on the ground, news all around
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Skates, Sparkles & Winter Wonderland
Last Saturday, our boarders set off for a festive weekend adventure to Winter Wonderland and the ice rink. The day began with an unexpected twist — all of our trains were cancelled — but spirits stayed high as we loaded into the minibuses instead. What could have been a setback quickly became part of the story, with excitement building as we made the journey together.
From sparkling lights to hot chocolate, from rides to skating beneath the Christmas tree, it turned into a memorable day full of laughter, new experiences, and quality time with friends.
In the Words of Our Students
Year 10
“I really enjoyed the food over there. I loved the ice skating, and I enjoyed holding a giant bear and taking pictures. It was a really, really good experience for me.”
“We did some shopping around Winter Wonderland. I had hot chocolate and looked around the stalls. The ice rink was a little bit melty, but it was still good — we had fun, and it was really beautiful.”
Year 8
“It was a really big place with lots of rides, and it was a great experience to share with our boarding mates and friends. There was a place to toast marshmallows, big rides, lots of lights… and a roller coaster with loop-the-loops!”
“When we went ice skating, it was very nice — there was music playing and a big Christmas tree in the middle. It was a great time to bond with friends, and I was even taught how to skate by an older student!”
A Festive Day of Fun, Friendship & Frozen Feet
Even though the weather was cold and a little wet at times, it never dampened the mood — the laughter, lights and skating more than made up for it! The trip was a wonderful way to step into the festive season, and it was clear how much everyone enjoyed being out together, trying new things, supporting one another on the ice and soaking up the Winter Wonderland atmosphere.
From rollercoasters and marshmallows to music, lights and plenty of smiles, it was a day filled with warmth (even in the cold!). We look forward to many more weekend adventures like this one, and we are so proud of the way our boarders embraced the day with enthusiasm, resilience and friendship.
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Boardington Bear Adventures: Whirling Through Winter Wonderland
Hello Everyone,
It’s me, Boardington Bear, back again with another sparkling adventure to share and oh my paws, what an enchanting day it was!Our festive outing began as we travelled there and back by minibus, all bundled up in coats, scarves and cheerful chatter. I had a very special companion for the journey, my friend Joyce. We sat together the whole way, paws and hands pressed to the windows, watching the world glisten as we headed towards London. Travelling with a friend always makes an adventure feel twice as exciting.
When we arrived at Winter Wonderland, I knew instantly we were in for something truly magical. The air was crisp, the lights were twinkling and the whole place shimmered like someone had sprinkled Christmas glitter over Hyde Park. It was a little wet and rainy at times, but that only added to the wintry sparkle. After all, a bear with a fluffy coat does not mind a few raindrops.
We wandered through towering arches of lights, past wooden chalets selling gingerbread and hot chocolate, and by more rides than my little bear brain could possibly count. Everywhere I looked there were smiles, laughter and a sense that Christmas had decided to show off its very best sparkle just for us.
Before our icy adventure began, I treated myself to a very large cheeseburger. It was almost as big as my head and absolutely delicious. A bear needs fuel before he takes to the ice.
Then came the real adventure, ice skating.
Now let me tell you, ice skating as a bear is not as simple as it looks. My paws are not exactly designed for balance or elegance or stopping. But I am a brave bear and a determined bear, so off I went, paws out and scarf fluttering behind me as if I were in my very own winter film.
The students whirled and glided beautifully around the rink. Some spun like snowflakes, others shuffled cautiously like penguins and a few, including me, took the occasional unplanned sit down break on the ice. But no matter the style, everyone was laughing, helping each other up and enjoying every chilly moment.
The lights around the rink made everything feel magical, soft, golden and full of winter wonder. Music played as we skated and for a moment I felt like the star of a festive musical number. If Broadway ever needs a skating bear, I’m available.
After skating, we explored more of Winter Wonderland. Some tried the rides, others browsed the stalls and I may or may not have sniffed out a churro. A bear gets hungry again, you know. We then spent time gathered around the warm fire, enjoying the glow, resting our chilly paws and chatting about our favourite moments so far. It was cosy, cheerful and the perfect way to dry off after the rain.
On the journey home, still with Joyce by my side, the minibus was filled with rosy cheeks, happy chatter and stories of favourite moments, daring spins and spectacular slips. I won’t name names. A polite bear never tells.
It was a day of joy, laughter, sparkles, good food, warm fires and chilly paws. A real winter adventure I will treasure forever.
Until the next magical outing,
Boardington Bear
“Paws on the ground, news all around!”
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Big Speeches, Big Dreams: Year 12 Go for Leadership
Putting yourself forward for a prefect role is always daunting, nerve-wracking, exciting and full of unknowns. This week, three of our Year 12 boarders have stepped up with courage and ambition, putting themselves forward for the position of Deputy Head Girl (Boarding).
The selection process is no small task. Each candidate must deliver a formal speech to the whole school, followed by a student vote in the form of a ballot. Those shortlisted then face a panel interview which is thoughtful, challenging and designed to see what each student can bring to leadership. It has been an intense journey requiring confidence, resilience and self-belief.
We could not be prouder of all three candidates. They have shown maturity, passion and genuine commitment to the boarding community, qualities we value deeply.
Below is one of the speeches delivered during the process. It is clear that the candidates put their heart and soul into every word and we hope you enjoy reading it as much as we did.
Good afternoon, everyone,
I am honoured to stand before you as a candidate for the position of Deputy Head Girl of Boarding. Just simply to introduce myself. I am currently taking Business, Maths, Biology and Chinese. I like playing tennis, cooking, singing and traveling. I have been part of the St. Francis College boarding community for three years, and as I begin my fourth year, I have come to truly appreciate what makes our boarding house so special — the people, the sense of belonging, and the spirit of care that makes St. Francis not just a school, but a home.
When I first arrived, I remember the mix of excitement and nerves that came with stepping into a completely new environment. Especially since I came here from another country. Like many of us, I missed home, my family, and the comfort of what was familiar. But it was the warmth of the girls around me, the guidance of our boarding staff, and the support from them that helped me find my place. That experience taught me that boarding is built on community — on kindness, understanding, and the willingness to support one another.
To me, leadership is not defined by titles or positions. It’s about influence, example, and service. A true leader is someone who listens, who uplifts others, and who leads by doing. I’ve learned that small actions — checking in on someone who looks down, offering to help a younger student unpack, or sharing a laugh during study breaks — can make a huge difference in someone’s day. As Deputy Head Girl, I want to be that source of positivity and encouragement for every boarder and every student here, just as others have been for me.
In this role, I would like to work closely with our staff, and fellow students to strengthen the bonds within our boarding family. One of my goals would be to create more opportunities for connection across year groups — perhaps through shared activities, mentorship, or even simple traditions that celebrate our diverse backgrounds. I would like to plan more interesting activities and weekend trips that everyone can participate in.
We can share happiness, having time to know each other more. I believe that by getting to know one another beyond our dorms and routines, we can build a stronger, more unified community where everyone feels seen and valued.
Another priority for me is communication. Boarding life runs smoothly when everyone feels comfortable expressing their thoughts and concerns. I would aim to be approachable and open-minded, someone my peers can talk to freely — not just about school matters, but about anything that affects their wellbeing. Our boarding house should be a space where every voice matters and where everyone feels supported to grow.
I truly love our boarding and staffs. As they have taught me valuable lessons about independence, empathy, and resilience. Whenever I get lost or feel depressed, they always encourage me and give me confidence. The spirit and encouragement they gave me have supported my growth and progress. I will carry this spirit and support you. No matter where we come from, when we care for each other, we create something truly special. These lessons inspire me to give back, to contribute actively, and to help others find the same sense of comfort and belonging that I found in our boarding.
I believe that being Deputy Head Girl of Boarding is not only a position of leadership but also one of trust. It’s about representing the values of St. Francis College —dare, dream, and achievement — and reflecting them in everything I do. I would be deeply honoured to take on this responsibility, to serve my fellow boarders, and to work together with our lovely boarding teachers to make our boarding house an even warmer and happier place for everyone.
Thank you for listening, and thank you for considering me, for the position of Deputy Head Girl of Boarding. – Year 12 Deputy Head Girl – Boarding Candidate
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Boardington Bear Adventures: Birthdays, Baubles and Brilliant Performances
Hello Everyone,
It’s me, Boardington Bear, popping back in with another heartwarming update from our bustling boarding house. What a joyful, jolly and musical week it has been!
To begin with, we have been celebrating birthdays left, right and centre. So far this month, we have enjoyed Eight deliciously delightful celebrations. Eight! That is a lot of cake for one bear, but I am always happy to do my part. Every birthday brought smiles, singing and plenty of excitement, and I must say, our boarders throw a marvellous party.
With twenty five days left of this term, we have also started our Advent Calendar Puzzle. Each morning a brand new puzzle piece is put out for everyone to see and work on throughout the day. Slowly but surely, all these tiny pieces will eventually fit together to create one big festive picture by the end of term. The students gather eagerly each morning to see what has arrived, and I have been studying every piece very closely with my excellent bear eyesight. I do have a few theories about the final image, but of course I am keeping them tucked safely under my fur. A wise bear never spoils a surprise.
Midway through the week, something rather magical happened – it snowed! The flakes danced down softly, turning the garden white for the briefest, prettiest moment. It lasted less than an hour, but oh, what a lovely hour it was. I watched from my cosy spot inside, feeling very clever indeed for choosing warmth over chilly paws. It was the perfect little sprinkle of winter wonder to brighten everyone’s day.
One of the highlights of the week was the Autumn Concert, performed by our talented students and the wonderful Music Department. Oh my whiskers, what a show it was! Beautiful singing, impressive instrumental pieces and confident performances filled the hall with warmth. I clapped my paws so enthusiastically that they are still a little tingly. The whole evening felt like a golden autumn leaf floating gently down to land on a perfect note.
Back in the boarding house, we have been getting into the festive spirit and putting up our Christmas decorations. There were fairy lights, baubles, tinsel and one or two debates about which tree topper looked best. I tried placing myself at the top of the tree, but unfortunately the branches protested. Quite loudly. We settled on something slightly lighter and slightly less fluffy.
To round off the week, our Deputy Head Girl candidates delivered their speeches as part of the ongoing application process. The room was filled with confidence, creativity and brilliant ideas for the future. I listened very carefully from my seat and felt incredibly proud of each one of them. Leadership takes courage, and these students have plenty of that.
So with birthdays celebrated, music performed, decorations twinkling, snow falling (very politely) and exciting opportunities unfolding, it has been a week full of sparkle inside and out.
Until the next adventure,
“Paws on the ground, news all around!”
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Boardington Bear Adventures: A Heroic Night at Hercules
Hello Everyone
It’s me, Boardington Bear, and I have just returned from one of my most extraordinary adventures yet. You will not believe the heroic evening I had.
On Wednesday night, I joined a very excited group of students on a grand journey to London. We were heading to the Royal Drury Lane Theatre to see Hercules the Musical, and as a bear of courage, fluff and impeccable taste in theatre, I simply had to go along.
Our adventure truly began when we arrived in Covent Garden. Now, I must confess, we missed the official switching on of the Christmas lights by about twenty minutes. But do not fear, because when we walked into the square, it was already sparkling like a winter wonderland. The enormous Christmas tree was glowing beautifully, fairy lights twinkled everywhere, and I felt very festive indeed. Some students stopped for photographs, so of course I posed too. One must document these things.
Before heading into the theatre, I also said hello to a Lego reindeer and a Lego Santa. They were very friendly, although rather quiet, but they brightened my evening and added an extra dash of festive cheer to my adventure.
When we reached the theatre, I discovered that we had absolutely amazing seats. I could see everything perfectly, even from my small bear height. Every expression, every costume and every heroic pose was right there in front of us. I think my little button eyes grew three times wider. And the best part was that I got to sit with some wonderful friends. I was joined by my new Alien friend and a brand-new addition fresh from Jellycat, who was very excited for their first ever theatre trip. We made an excellent trio of cuddly critics.
Before the show began, I noticed that our students fell into two groups. Some were Hercules experts who knew the Disney film inside out and were ready to sing along at any moment. Others had never seen Hercules before and had no idea what they were about to witness. As for me, I have seen many great tales in my time, but even I was excited to see how this one would unfold.
The moment the performance started, we were all completely swept away. There was music, dancing, comedy, adventure and more heroic moments than I could count on my paws. By the end, everyone was singing, laughing and cheering together. Even the Hercules newbies were humming the tunes on the way home.
When we returned to school, the excitement had not worn off. Students were still chatting, singing and even wondering whether the we may be able to perform Hercules next year. I personally would be delighted to audition for the role of Phil the satyr, though I imagine I might need smaller hooves.
It was a magical evening full of festive sparkle, unforgettable theatre and shared joy. And this brave bear will treasure the memory for a very long time.
Bear hugs and big adventures ahead,
“Paws on the ground, news all around!”
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A Magical Evening at Hercules: The Musical
On Wednesday evening, a very excited group of students set off for London to see Hercules: The Musical at the iconic Royal Drury Lane Theatre. From the moment we arrived, it was clear this was going to be a truly special trip.
Before even stepping inside the theatre, we were treated to a magical surprise: Covent Garden had just lit up for Christmas. The whole area sparkled to life around us, and the enormous Christmas tree glowing beautifully in the square created a festive atmosphere that made the evening feel even more memorable. Students stopped for photos, chatted excitedly and soaked up the scene before heading in.
Inside the theatre, the performance did not disappoint. Hercules was bright, bold and breathtaking—full of energy, humour, beautiful music and stunning staging. Our students were completely absorbed, and afterwards they were eager to share their thoughts:
“Hercules was very gorgeous and wonderful. My favourite part (of course) was the ending, when they all came out in the gold sparkly dresses. Those gold sparkly dresses were spectacular, and I loved seeing the whole cast together on stage.”
– Year 10 Student“I think Hercules is amazing, and I really enjoyed the show. My favourite characters were the Muses (the Beautiful five), because they were funny and really interesting to watch. I also enjoyed the one hour of free time before the show, and I loved the Christmas Markets – they were amazing!”
– Year 10 Student“It’s amazing, and I think everything was perfect. Their voices were so beautiful, and I loved the lights, the sound and the movement on stage. My favourite part was just how it all came together, because everything looked and felt so magical.”
– Year 10 StudentBy the end of the night, everyone returned to school buzzing with excitement. Experiences like this not only enrich our students’ cultural lives, but also create memories that they will carry with them for years to come.
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Boardington Bear Adventures: A Week of Paws, Poppies & Positivity
Hello Everyone,
It’s me, Boardington Bear, reporting for duty with another cosy update from my very busy bear week. My paws have hardly touched the ground!
We began this week with a very special occasion: Remembrance Sunday. I spent a peaceful few hours knitting poppies – though I must admit, knitting with paws is quite the challenge. Still, I persevered, and by the end I had created a rather lovely poppy that made me feel both proud and thoughtful.
On Monday, the College was full of colour as we celebrated Odd Socks Day to begin Anti-Bullying Week. Everywhere I looked, I saw bright patterns, mismatched stripes and socks that definitely did not belong together. It was wonderful! A perfect reminder that our differences make us unique – and as a bear of very distinctive fashion choices, I fully approve.
Tuesday brought Remembrance Day, and I wore the poppy I had knitted with great pride. I joined the entire school for the two-minute silence. Even the smallest rustle stopped. It was a moving moment, and I felt honoured to be there.
On Wednesday, I had such a tremendous adventure that I had to give it its own blog post! Yes indeed – our big theatre trip. You can read all about my heroic night at Hercules in the other entry, where I share every dazzling detail of that magical evening.
Then came Thursday, which was World Kindness Day. Now, kindness is something I take very seriously. I made sure to give out extra smiles, hold open doors with my fluffy paws, and tell at least three people that they were doing brilliantly. (One of them was the photocopier, which had been working VERY hard.)
Finally, Friday arrived, bringing with it Children in Need Day. The whole school was buzzing with excitement, and I even made a brand-new friend! Over in the Prep Department, the celebrations were in full swing – some of the staff wore truly brilliant outfits. I even spotted someone in Pudsey pyjamas, which absolutely made my day. (If only they made bear-sized ones!) We all had a marvellous time raising money and spreading cheer.
And so, after poppies, odd socks, silence, singing, kindness and new friendships, this bear is ready for a little rest… but only a little one. Adventures are always waiting!
Bear hugs and soft paws until next time,
“Paws on the ground, news all around!”
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Welcome to the Boardington Bear Blog!
Hello everyone!
I’m Boardington Bear, the official Boarding Bear of St Francis’ College, and I’m very excited to welcome you to my brand-new blog as part of the St Francis’ College Boarding House Blog.
Every week, I’ll be sharing updates about my adventures in and out of the boarding house. Whether I’m helping students with activities, joining trips, exploring new places, or simply enjoying everyday life with my boarding friends, I’ll be here to report all the latest news from our wonderful boarding community.
From big events to small moments, from festive fun to heroic missions, I’ll make sure you don’t miss a thing. So get ready for stories, snapshots and plenty of bear-sized excitement as we celebrate everything happening in boarding at St Francis’ College.
Bear hugs and big adventures ahead,
“Paws on the ground, news all around!”
#BoardingtonBear #BoardingLife #StFrancisCollege -
Welcome Back to the Boarding House Blog!
It has been a while
After a little time away, we are delighted to announce that our Boarding House Blog is officially back. We will once again be sharing regular updates, celebrating the wonderful events and activities happening in our boarding community, and giving families a window into daily life here at St. Francis’.
Alongside our usual write-ups of trips, celebrations and special moments, we are thrilled to reintroduce the adventures of our beloved boarding mascot, Boardington Bear. He will be offering his own unique perspective on our outings and experiences, complete with his trademark charm, curiosity and occasional heroic moment.
We look forward to bringing you stories, smiles and snapshots from boarding life once again. Stay tuned for plenty of exciting posts to come!
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.
Boarding house 