Boarding in the Sixth Form Entry into the Sixth Form whether as an existing Wells Cathedral School pupil or as a new pupil represents the beginning of a new chapter in the pupils’ educational career. This is particularly so if one is a boarder. Life as a boarder in the Sixth Form at Wells offers many opportunities and acts as an excellent preparation for life at university, music college or in the wider world.
Life in the Sixth Form for a boarder at Wells Cathedral School offers an excellent preparation for later life. The friendly and supportive environment seeks to develop the leadership and academic potential in every pupil. Pupils leave the School confident in themselves and in their abilities and ready to embark on the next chapter of their education.
Life is different because the School invests a lot of trust in Sixth Form boarders. There is still the same level of professional support and care available from house staff, but in the interests of encouraging pupils to become independent learners, they are expected to take more
Ritchie House
responsibility for their learning both in and outside of the classroom. To encourage independence, boarders are allowed to work in their studies during private learning periods and can make use of the Library and the Sixth Form Centre in the evenings.
There are three distinct areas: the main house, a modern wing (Ritchie Gardens) and a satellite house (Brock House). Ritchie has a modern design with en-suite rooms, a beautiful university campus feel and a large walled garden. A resident Houseparent and Assistant, along with a non-resident Matron and a number of regular staff, support our Sixth Formers and ensure the House runs smoothly.
Boarders in the Sixth Form have the opportunity to shape the boarding community. In their respective houses they have the chance to act as positive role models through organising house events, keenly participating in House competitions, mentoring younger pupils and by guiding prospective pupils `and parents around the school. Sixth Form boarders also have the opportunity to contribute to wider school life through active involvement in the School’s committee structure. Through this involvement Sixth Form boarders realise the value of teamwork and develop a sense of community responsibility. Like day pupils, boarders in the Sixth Form have much to look forward to outside of academic study. As well as opportunities to participate in world-class music and competitive sport every term, there are a considerable number of trips available. In addition, every term there is a Sixth Form party, usually with a fancy dress theme. The party season culminates with the Sixth Form Ball at the end of the academic year. Boarders can also go to Bristol and Bath at weekends providing they have no school commitments.
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Ritchie House is our bespoke Sixth Form only coeducational House designed to provide a stepping stone from school life to university for our Upper Sixth pupils.
