Summer Term 2024
As the Deputy Head of Boarding at Stoke College, it is my pleasure to share our new Flexi-Boarding Activity Guide with you. Flexi-boarding is offered to all Stoke College students and this term we have some fantastic activity packages to share with you.
As a previous boarding-school student myself, I am delighted to extol the numerous advantages of our flexi-boarding program, particularly during the vibrant summer term. At Stoke College, we firmly believe in fostering an environment where students thrive academically, socially and personally. Flexi-boarding presents a unique opportunity for students to immerse themselves fully in our rich educational experience while maintaining the comforts of home.
One of the most significant benefits of flexi-boarding is the opportunity for students to forge enduring friendships within the school community. By residing on campus, students develop what we affectionately refer to as “vertical friendships,” bonds that transcend traditional year groups and endure throughout their time at Stoke College. These relationships not only enrich their social experiences but also provide invaluable support academically and emotionally.
Furthermore, flexi-boarding affords students the chance to engage in peer-to-peer study sessions, which can be immensely beneficial in enhancing their academic performance. Collaborative learning environments fostered through such interactions encourage intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Our dedicated staff members are always on hand to facilitate these sessions, ensuring that students receive the individual attention necessary to excel academically.
Moreover, the summer term presents a myriad of opportunities for students to explore and develop new interests and talents. Through our extensive extracurricular program, flexi-boarders have access
to a diverse range of activities, from sports and arts to leadership and community service initiatives. Participating in these activities not only fosters personal growth but also instills a sense of confidence and selfassurance that extends beyond the classroom.
Importantly, flexi-boarding strikes a harmonious balance between academic rigour and recreational enjoyment, allowing students to experience the best of both worlds. Whether it’s exploring our picturesque grounds, participating in organised events, or simply relaxing with friends, flexi-boarders experience a holistic and fulfilling school experience.
Miss Ellen Affleck Deputy Head of BoardingWhat’s included in flexi-boarding?
• An overnight stay in the Stoke boarding houses (Main House for boys and The Stables for girls)
• Dinner with the Stoke boarding community
• Prep: Supervised peer-to-peer study session
• Evening activity
• Supervised ‘lights out’
• Breakfast with the Stoke boarding community
What’s included in weekend flexi-boarding?
• A Friday overnight stay in the Stoke boarding houses (Main House for boys and The Stables for girls)
• Dinner with the Stoke boarding community
• Prep: Supervised peer-to-peer study session
• Whole-day activity
• Supervised ‘lights out’
• Breakfast with the Stoke boarding community
What will I need to bring with me?
• Your school equipment for the next day
• Clean uniform/clothes and pyjamas
• Clothes for relaxing
• Sports kits for evening sports activities
• Towel and toiletries
• Teddy (optional)!
How many nights can I flexi-board each week?
1-2 nights per week
Please note that mobile phones are stored securely overnight and are not allowed in bedrooms after ‘lights out’.
Flexi-Boarding in the Summer Term
There are many reasons to flexi-board during the Summer Term at Stoke College. As well as the usual benefits there are specific events in the college where staying in school can benefit students and parents. These include after sports matches (a brilliant way to carry on the sporting cheer), following the evening rehearsals for The Lion King, and to participate in the preparation for Stoke College festivals. To help our families we have created some special packages for this term.
Summer Term Special Flexi-Boarding Rates* (usual price £60 per night)
Match Night Sports Fun - £25 per night
A wonderful way to spend a Wednesday on campus with friends carrying on the afternoon’s sporting theme. After Prep and Dinner, the boarding community will come together for a sporting activity; fitness, friendship and fun!
The Lion King Rehearsal Relax - £25 per night
Following a rehearsal for this year’s Key Stage 3 production, cast and crew can stay behind to relax together with a fun-themed evening activity.
River Festival Prep Party - £25
Spend the night before Stoke’s famous River Festival making and creating decorations to adorn our beautiful campus. After Prep and Dinner, the boarding community will come together for a creative activity
- be sure to enjoy a big breakfast before to fuel your River Festival fun!
*special rate places are limited and subject to availability
Weekend Flexi-Boarding Activities for Summer Term 2024
We have a range of exciting activities planned for the weekends during the Summer Term. Each activity includes a Friday overnight stay, a hearty breakfast ahead of the activity and a packed lunch. Where appropriate students are invited to bring spending money to buy additional drinks and snacks.
Places will be booked on a first-come-first-served basis at the discretion of the Deputy Head of Boarding. Further details of each trip, including any appropriate clothing/footwear requirements, will be sent out one week prior.
Petting Farm and Alpaca Walk, Braintree
26th-27th April, £40
Come and meet all of the wonderful characters down at the farm. You’ll find the funniest looking llamas and some adorable baby crias. There are also pygmy goats, micro pigs and miniature ponies
+ alpaca walking!
Zorb (bubble) Football, Fen Ditton
3rd-4th May, £50
An hilariously fun twist on the beautiful game awaits you as you strap yourself into our gigantic legless Zorb balls and bounce to your heart’s content as you play Bubble Football!
The Playground, Bury St Edmunds
10th-11th May, £40
Take leg leaps, crawl through cargo nets and Ninja Warrior-style warped walls among many other challenges along the 1km long assault course.
Puppy Yoga, Norwich
17th-18th May, £60
Nothing compares to the joy of a puppy running up to you or jumping onto your lap. Animal therapy is powerful and a proven way to release all of those feel-good chemicals helping us to feel happier, calmer and more focussed. Combined with yoga, you will be lost in relaxation, laughter and smiles!
Laser Tag Tournament/Climbing Wall Challenges
7th-8th June, £50 Stoke College
Take a fun evening boarding with friends before embarking on a day of friendly combat and adventure on the Stoke College campus.
Premiership Rugby Final, Twickenham
14th-15th June, £50
A trip to the home of British rugby to see the Premiership Rugby Final. Join our very own rugby hero, Miss Affleck, on a trip to Twickenham to enjoy the premiership final.
Roller-skating, Ipswich
21st-22nd June, £40
A fun night with friends in the boarding house followed by the chance to test your skating skills on a beautiful maple wood skating rink. All levels welcome!
To register for trips, please complete the form here. Once allocated a place, parents will be notified of payment details. For further details please contact Miss Affleck e.affleck@stokecollege.co.uk
stokecollege.co.uk
