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Boardington Bear Adventures: Snowflakes, Studies and Settling Back
Hello Everyone,
It’s me, Boardington Bear, padding back in to say Happy New Year and bring on 2026. A brand new year, a fresh term and plenty more adventures ahead. The boarding house has slowly woken up again after the Christmas break and it has been lovely to see it come back to life.
The week began quietly with INSET day on Monday, while teachers and staff prepared for the term ahead. In the boarding house, the boarding staff were just as busy, getting everything ready for the return of our boarders. The Christmas tree was carefully taken down, decorations packed away and fairy lights gently untangled. It always feels a little strange saying goodbye to the festive sparkle, but it also makes space for new beginnings. I supervised closely, of course, to make sure no tinsel was left behind.
Before long, it was time to welcome the boarders back. Suitcases rolled in, familiar voices filled the corridors and the boarding house felt warm and lively once again. There were plenty of smiles, stories from the holidays and happy reunions. I stood proudly at the door, doing my best welcoming pose and making sure everyone felt at home.
For our Year 11 students, the return to school meant something very important. They began their GCSE mock exams this week. The atmosphere was calm and focused, with revision notes spread out, quiet determination in the air and lots of encouragement from staff. The boarding staff also ran revision sessions, offering extra support in the evenings, helping with questions, organising quiet study spaces and making sure everyone felt confident and prepared. I hovered nearby, offering moral support and the occasional encouraging nod.
As if to gently welcome us back, a little snow fell during the week. I couldn’t resist, so I went outside to look at the snow resting on the ground. I had great fun with my friends, enjoying the crisp air and the wintry scene, before sensibly returning to the boarding house to warm up again. A perfect balance, if you ask me.
Now, as routines settle back into place and everyone gets back into the swing of school life, the boarding house feels just right again. A new year, a new term and many more memories waiting to be made.
Here’s to 2026 and all the adventures ahead.
Until the next adventure,
Paws on the ground, news all around
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What It’s Like to Be a Short-Term Boarder
Written by our Short-Stay Students (September–December, Winter Term)
Spending just one term in boarding might sound short, but for us it became a time full of new experiences, friendships, and memories that will last far beyond the winter term. Here are our reflections, written by students from different year groups, sharing what made our time in boarding so special.
Year 8 Short-Stay Student – My Five Highlights
- One of the things I enjoyed most was being able to try lots of different sports. Playing games like netball and hockey helped me discover activities I might not have tried otherwise, and it was fun learning something new.
- I really enjoyed the boarding trips during the term. Going ice skating, visiting places like Chinatown, and attending football matches made weekends exciting and gave us memories outside school.
- Making new friends in boarding was a big highlight. Living together helped us form strong friendships quite quickly, and it made boarding feel like home.
- I liked the school environment and how everyone works together. The relationships between teachers and students felt positive and respectful, which made lessons and boarding life enjoyable.
- I also enjoyed the times when we went into town together, as it was a nice way to spend time with friends and explore new places.
Year 10 Short-Stay Student – My Five Highlights
- School friendships and the integration between day students and boarders worked really well and helped everyone feel included.
- I really enjoyed the boarding parties and trips to sports clubs, especially hockey and netball.
- The house competitions were great fun and made boarding feel like a real team.
- I liked working with the younger students and sharing breakfast together – there was always lots of variety, which made mornings enjoyable.
- I really enjoyed the food and nutrition activities, including the national chef competition, and I also really liked the teachers.
Year 11 Short-Stay Student – My Five Highlights
- The friends I made and the good moments we shared – these friendships meant everything to my boarding experience.
- The amazing food we had throughout the term.
- Learning new skills, such as netball, and gaining confidence by trying new things.
- The incredible trips we went on every weekend, which gave us something to look forward to and created great memories.
- The boarding activities like cooking, dancing, playing games, and also improving my English through everyday life in boarding.
Year 11 Short-Stay Student – Overall Reflections
My stay in boarding has been an incredible experience with so many positive moments. I loved meeting new people who are now very important to me, and boarding would have been completely different without the friends I made.
I really enjoyed the trips every weekend and the way weekends are organised – there is always something to do, which makes boarding life fun and busy in a good way. I also liked being woken up with music, as it is a really nice way to start the day.
Even though my stay was short, the memories, friendships, and confidence I have gained will stay with me for a long time.
Even though we were only in boarding for one term, the winter months helped us grow in confidence, independence, and friendships. Being short-term boarders showed us that you don’t need a long time to feel part of a community – sometimes, a few months is all it takes to make memories that last a lifetime.
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Boardington Bear Adventures: Festive Hunts, Midnight Alarms and a Christmas Feast
Hello everyone,
It’s me, Boardington Bear, padding in with another cheerful update as December begins and the boarding house fills with sparkle and excitement. What a week it has been. My paws have hardly rested.
To start the month in true festive fashion, we launched the Boardington Bear Festive Bear Hunt. Each morning I sneak off to hide in a different location somewhere around the school, waiting for students to find me and report my whereabouts to the Boarding House. So far I have hidden in the library, quietly nestled between the books. I have lounged in the sixth form centre pretending to study very seriously. I have relaxed in the dining room where I kept a close eye on the desserts. And I have stationed myself proudly by the science corridor, keeping watch over the beakers and test tubes. Watching students search high and low has been enormously entertaining and I feel like a very mischievous seasonal mascot indeed.
In the spirit of excitement, we also experienced our overnight fire alarm practice. The alarm rang out in the middle of the night, echoing through the boarding house and sending everyone into swift action. Pajamas, slippers, blankets, yawns and determined quick walking filled the corridors as we gathered safely outside. I stayed calm of course. A brave bear must set a good example. Once everyone was accounted for and wide awake, there were a few sleepy giggles before we all returned inside to warm up. It may have been chilly, but it certainly reminded us how well our students respond when needed.
This week we also celebrated St Nicholas Day. Our junior boarders placed their shoes out the night before and woke up in the morning to find that St Nicholas had left them a little treat. The excited whispers and happy smiles at breakfast made the whole boarding house feel wonderfully festive. It was a magical moment to see their joy and curiosity, and I must admit, I checked my own paws just in case St Nicholas had left something for a bear too.
Our Year 11 students also had their important parents meeting this week. There was a steady stream of conversations about progress, goals and exciting plans for the future. I listened from my cosy spot, nodding thoughtfully like a very scholarly bear. The Year 11s handled the day with maturity and pride. They are growing up beautifully.
We finished the week in the most delicious way imaginable with our Boarders Christmas Dinner. Oh my fur, what a feast it was. We all sat together family style, long tables filled with chatter, laughter and the soft rustling of Christmas cracker hats. The room glowed with fairy lights and festive warmth. Our brilliant catering staff truly outdid themselves. They prepared the most spectacular turkey dinner, complete with golden roast potatoes, fluffy stuffing, rich gravy, vegetables cooked to perfection and all the trimmings a Christmas bear could dream of. The smell alone was enough to make my paws wiggle with joy. It felt like sharing Christmas around one big family table, and no bear could ask for more.
It has been a week full of festive fun, midnight excitement, important moments and a wonderful feast shared together. December has begun in the most magical way and this bear could not be happier.
Until the next adventure,
Paws on the ground, news all around
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Boardington Bear Adventures: Wembley Roars and Winter Lights
Hello everyone,
It’s me again, Boardington Bear, back to share a weekend so wonderful that my paws are still tingling with excitement. We have had adventures, bright lights, football cheers and a very special festive moment that made this bear’s heart glow like Christmas itself.
Our first grand outing took us all the way to Wembley Stadium to watch the Ladies England versus China football match. On our journey we stopped at King’s Cross Station to admire the extraordinary Harry Potter themed Christmas tree. This year it was designed around Honeydukes, the famous sweet shop from the wizarding world. It was deliciously colourful, covered in chocolate frogs, sherbet lemons, sugar quills and the prettiest peppermint swirls a bear has ever seen. I was tempted to nibble a decoration but behaved myself brilliantly.
Then it was time for football. Wembley was massive, towering above us like a giant silver bowl. Once inside the atmosphere was electric. The crowds were loud and joyful, voices rolled like thunder around the stadium and flags waved in every colour. The match itself was incredible. England played beautifully and the score ended at eight zero. Some of our students hoped China would score at least once, but even without it the excitement was huge. The journey home was very busy, but the joy of the day followed us all the way back. A truly memorable experience.
The very next evening brought even more magic as we visited Wimpole Hall to see the Christmas light trail. The grounds were filled with glowing colours and sparkling wonder. Halfway around the trail, to my absolute delight, I met Santa himself. I shook his hand, told him about my adventures and he assured me that I have been a very good bear this year. I was so happy I nearly bounced out of my paws.
Lights continued to shine all around us. There was a shimmering light tunnel that seemed to stretch into forever, and a breathtaking projection show that danced across the front of Wimpole Hall in time with the music. Everywhere I looked there were glowing sculptures and twinkling installations as bright as shooting stars. I was very glad I wore my hat because even a festive bear must keep his ears warm on a magical winter night.
Two adventures in two evenings, football roaring through Wembley and Christmas magic glowing across Wimpole. A weekend to remember, full of excitement, wonder and joy.
Until the next adventure,
Paws on the ground, news all around
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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!”
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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