Communal Spaces

New ‘Fives’ café and Sixth Form Centre at Lancing College

Boarding is at the heart of Lancing College and the campus and facilities have evolved over the years to meet the changing lives and needs of the College. Lancing is deeply committed to providing exceptional boarding experiences, placing it at the heart of all planning and decision-making. The school prioritises creating a safe, calm and inspiring homefrom-home environment where pupils can thrive and build meaningful connections with their peers. This academic year the College celebrates two new spaces, providing further opportunity for relaxation, conversation and community.

The newly opened café at Lancing College, named ‘Fives’, has a unique historical charm that blends the school’s rich history with a contemporary, vibrant atmosphere, serving as a modern gathering spot for pupils and staff. Visitors can enjoy a range of hot beverages, pastries, fruit and sweet treats throughout the day and boarding pupils can order snacks and light meals right through to the evening.

The café’s name pays homage to the building’s original purpose, offering a nod to the traditional handball game - Fives - once played there; it also retains subtle architectural elements of the former court, including the original plaque. Meanwhile, the remaining Fives court at the College has had a total refurbishment and continues to hold matches and welcome eager players. Fives Café has quickly become part of College life and is a favourite place for many members of the community.

Third Form boarder Hugo says: “I love spending my free time at the café. The snacks are delicious, especially the ham and cheese turnovers. When you enter there is always cheerful music playing and it is a great space to hang out with my friends.”

In addition, Lancing College’s new Sixth Form Centre is a state-of-theart space designed to enhance the learning experience for senior pupils. The modern and expansive facility provides a dynamic environment that promotes both academic focus and social interaction. Equipped with its own kitchen, the centre offers a comfortable and convenient space where pupils can relax, study or grab a bite between classes and in the evening the space is open for Sixth Formers to socialise and rest.

One of the key features of the new centre is that the Head of Sixth Form, Tim Grant, is based there, creating an accessible hub for guidance and support. He writes: “The Sixth Form Centre is a place where ‘stuff gets done’ - I am available to the pupils for advice on their subjects or UCAS applications and I welcome them to drop in without the need for setting up a formal meeting. Staff have also been quick to recognise the utility of the space and so we are seeing an increasing number of tutorials and larger group lessons happening in the new space.”

The sleek design, combined with practical amenities, ensures that pupils have everything they need to thrive in their final years at Lancing College.

Head of School, Nerea, says: “The Sixth Form Centre has been a great addition to the school campus. I use it at break times and in the evening to have a cup of tea with my friends or when I need to do collaborative work.”

These new spaces embody Lancing College’s dedication to offering exceptional facilities that foster both independence and a strong sense of community.

KAT FIELD Marketing Campaign Manager www.lancingcollege.co.uk