Boarding There is never a dull moment in boarding, and that could not be truer of this academic year. The Michaelmas term was a huge success with the revamping of Pollard common room, planned by the boarders and executed by our fantastic Maintenance Team. This gave a real sense of pride and ownership to our boarders who have a modern and useful space to spend their downtime. We also said goodbye to Mr Sanders who has committed ten years to boarding culminating in his final few years as Ruddle Housemaster. We are glad to know he would still be a constant around campus in his new role at the school but the whole boarding community, staff and pupils included, would like to take the opportunity to thank him and his family for the time and effort committed to boarding at Shebbear through the years. The Pollard common room revamp was completed just in time to - in the first time in Shebbear College’s long history - begin the operation of a co-educational boarding house with the girls moving from Ruddle to Pollard for the Lent term. There were plenty of nerves as to how this was going to work, and this was just from the boarding staff! However, it soon became obvious that co-educational boarding has
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a huge array of positives. Healthy relationships bloomed, social groups expanded rapidly, life lessons were learnt as both our male and female, senior and junior boarders watched each other interact and respond to everyday challenges. In true Shebbear style, everyone came together to support one another in this new venture. It is quite incredible how resilient our boarders are, and this was clearly evident when Storm Eunice blew through and lifted the roof off of Tower Dorms in Pollard House. The girls seemed to take the move to their luxury holiday accommodation in their stride. Shippen & Hayloft (or New Ruddle as it was fondly christened) was a real success; the boys were only a little jealous of the new accomodation this situation afforded them. After their little venture offsite, it was fantastic to welcome the girls back on site for the final term. The pod accommodation was a great hit with our senior pupils. Ruddle Road, the “Mini-Village” or “Senior Street”, depending on who you asked, had a feel of independent university halls. A perfect preparation for all those thinking of moving on to further education in the next few years. I’m sure “the Villagers” will have fond memories of this time. Regardless, we are all looking forward to being back in our proper boarding accommodation in the new year and are excited for the next chapter of adventures as Mr Clewley takes over the boarding mantle in the newly renovated Ruddle House. Mr Deakes Boarding Housemaster
