RMS BOARDING DECEMBER 2017
A look back at a busy Michaelmas term @RMSBoarders
www.rmsforgirls.org.uk
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RMS BOARDING DECEMBER 2017
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Sun to snow: boarding at RMS by Rachel Dobson, Housemistress of Zetland House What a roller coaster of a term it has been in boarding, from the inspection to snow days and Christmas festivities! Every weekend had an outing or activity arranged for it, and you may already have seen some of the many photos we tweeted along the way. If I had to choose one highlight it would be when we finally made it to the worldfamous Madame Tussauds waxworks museum on our third attempt. Many girls from all the boarding houses came along and, though it was a strange concept for some of our younger overseas boarders, the trip was thoroughly enjoyed by all. In particular, the indoor taxi ride displaying “London through the ages” was exceptional for being both enjoyable and informative. Looking back to September, the start of a new school year brought many new faces to our community, and of course also changed friendship dynamics: this is a good thing, adding a special dimension to the boarding experience. For the younger girls in Harris, loads of fun and learning have taken place as always. In fact, there have been reports of a few midnight feasts as well, though of course this cannot be confirmed! Earlier this month, Miss Batty and Mrs Dobson attended what was traditionally known as the Governors’ Dinner, but is now called the Prefects’ Dinner. As the name suggests, it was hosted by the prefects, while invited guests included the school governors, senior members of academic staff, form tutors and housemistresses. A short Chapel service was led by the school chaplain, followed by Christmas dinner and speeches, and the evening was
rounded off with carol singing. It was a special evening for our house prefects, and thanks must go to the catering team for a delicious meal. We are exceptionally proud of all our boarders at RMS, but there have been some achievements this term that deserve special attention. For example, three girls from Connaught found success in their kick boxing and their hard work was rewarded with some top grading: well done girls! Special congratulations must go to Curtis, also from Connaught, who in November was successful in her audition to dance in the award-winning English Youth Ballet’s ‘Coppelia’. She will take to the stage alongside international professional principal dancers in the production at Watersmeet Theatre, Rickmansworth, in March 2018. We can’t wait to see it! As 2017 comes to an end, we are sad to say goodbye to Blanca, Ines and Camilla, who will re-join their schools in Spain for the rest of the academic year. We have really enjoyed getting to know you and you will be missed by us all. Please keep in touch and remember: ‘once an RMS girl, always an RMS girl!’
Rachel Dobson
Snow rabbit!
Madame Tussauds
We must also bid farewell to our “Gappies” who have been tremendous: always supportive and helpful without fail! We wish them well as they go back to their respective countries and prepare for university. Finally, we look forward to seeing all our returning boarders again in January. From all of us in boarding, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year!
Curtis the ballerina
RMS BOARDING DECEMBER 2017
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Some other highlights of the term
Start of a new year
Bowling
Birthday cakes
Mr Carson welcoming new boarders
Flower arranging
Ice cream
Autumn walk
Woodrow trip
Boarders' concert
Problem solving
Knitting
RMS BOARDING DECEMBER 2017
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Halloween
Hairspray
Hairspray
Bedtime stories
Paddington
Christmas hats
Secret Santa presents
Parents' evening
Pictionary
Playing in the snow
Snowy crafts