HOUSE

A Farewell from Mrs Gilbert

This is an Ackworth Today entry that I have not been looking forward to writing.

Boarding at Ackworth School has certainly got under my skin in ways that I never anticipated it could.

My dual role as Head of Boarding and Registrar has provided me with the opportunity to recruit some wonderful pupils into our boarding community. There is something so magical about meeting with children and parents in their home countries, then being here to welcome them as they begin their journey at boarding school.

We have been lucky that in recent months, it has been possible to welcome international families and agents to visit Ackworth School in person. I have been so proud to show them around the boarding house. If you have never visited our boarding house in person, I would strongly recommend it – it is a great place.

As I move on to pastures new, a huge challenge awaits me. My new school needs the same love and care that I have poured into the pupils, my colleagues, and the surroundings here at Ackworth and I am confident that the new Head of Boarding will continue to lead boarding with a similar ethos - based on trust, kindness, equality, and humour.

I am so grateful for every opportunity that Ackworth School has given me. I am especially grateful for my colleagues

– working in boarding allows you to gain greater relationships with out of hours staff, housekeeping staff, catering staff and the wardens. Without these people our job would be very difficult. There are so many colleagues that have influenced me and have helped me grow and learn over the past four years, allowing me to gain the skills and knowledge I needed to move into Senior Management, and I want to thank them all for their time and patience.

Lastly, and by no means least – my wonderful boarding pupils. Ackworth School would not be the same without the cultural impact that they have on the whole school and the wider community. I will hold a special place in my heart for them all. Thank you to them for making every day brighter than the one before.

A Trip to Harrogate Town in support for our new Football Academy partnership!

The boarding community always enjoy their weekend excursions, which this term have included ice skating, Flamingo Land, shopping trips to York and Leeds, and a student-led chess tournament.