With exam season currently underway, it is important that our boarders enjoy a balance of work and relaxation. The weather has been glorious this weekend and last, so they have been making the most of it by taking study breaks outside. Our school grounds are looking particularly green and leafy thanks to our Estates team and the girls were able to enjoy the greenery. 

Last weekend, our boarders from Y7 to Y10 took part in a rounders tournament. We had three teams (with the year groups mixed for fairness), with our Boarding Assistants, Miss Roberts and Miss Chapman getting involved too, and swapped in and out so that each team had ta chance to bat and bowl against the other team. While there was some degree of competitiveness, it was very light-hearted and the girls had fun taking their turn at batting and bowling. 

On Saturday, the various year groups all enjoyed different treats. The Years 7 to 9 boarders had trips to town and watched a movie together in the common room in the evening. Year 10 boarders visited Bath Pizza Co. for a delicious selection of pizzas. The Head Chef, Jonah had placed 2nd place out of 16 finalists at the National Pizza Awards last year. Year 11 boarders enjoyed a very different type of food treat, joining together for a "celebration supper' from Itsu with the housemistresses, Mrs Custodio and Miss Leipold.

This weekend was once again lovely and sunny. Our Year 7, Year 8 and Year 9 students have been working hard to prepare for their upcoming assessments. Having caught the rounders bug from last weekend, the boarders chose to play rounders on both Saturday and Sunday, as well as some studying on the picnic tables outside in the sun. 

Long periods of continuous study are counterproductive as it means it can become harder to concentrate productively, which was why it was brilliant seeing the girls choose to break up their revision with some physical activity. Moving around and exercise is known to help alleviate stress and improve concentration.

One of the benefits of being a boarder is that the older students are always able to lend a hand and offer their advice. There is a great sense of community and camaraderie across the year groupds. Having been through the assessments themselves, our Year 10 boarders were able to spend some time with our younger students with their revision.

Year 10 boarders enjoyed a film night together on Saturday, sharing sweet and savoury treats. On Sunday they went for a whole-year trip to Victoria Park to play adventure golf.

Enjoying time together outside the classroom allows our boarders to spend time with each other socially and to develop their friendships

Our boarders benefit from a sense of grounding and a settled environment which is essential during the exam. Weekends allow the girls time to unwind and relax, but are equally purposeful allowing the boarders time to study together and to concentrate on their work, with the correct balance of treats, physical activity, socialising and chill-out time.