Rhubarb 2021

ST EDWARD’S

A was a real buzz: competing against top schools and creating a tight-knit community where every player felt supported, spurred on by his fellow team members. Other friends of mine discussed the thrill of pre-season rugby and cricket fixtures. Cowell’s had many successes this term in sport. Our House shocked the school by winning the Junior House Rowing against all the odds. JJ, who is in Cowell’s Fourth Form, and I were able to compete and we won most of our tennis matches. Although the House was eager to win the Senior House Tennis tournament, coming third was still an impressive result. The Summer Term, post-lockdown meant that the Cowell’s community was able to unite and socialise as a House and there were many fun evenings watching England compete in the Euros and playing boardgames on the weekends while enjoying pizza. The absence of the Upper Sixth and the Fifth formers in the last weeks of term made the House a little quieter. While sad to see them go, the quiet did help the other year groups study efficiently for their exams. Being able to communicate with teachers in person made it easier to get clarification on complex topics and we all agreed that it was transformational, too, in terms of a higher level of energy and engagement.This energy transferred into House as well, as students passionately discussed subjects after school. COWELL’S T he most enjoyable experience for many of us this Summer Term was being able to get outside and take part in a wide variety of sports. It felt particularly rewarding following on from the physical confinement of online school and the knock-on effect on mental health. For me personally, playing for the St Edward’s tennis 1st VI

C secretary of the House) and Lobby cricket being a focal point in House life. In the evening Mr Hanslip and the Tutors are there to provide a guiding hand when needed. The Sixth Form have responsibilities, such as supporting prep, writing and directing Shell plays and supervising the bedtime routine. Another aspect to Field House is that we can just walk out of the back door and we are right on the playing fields; most nights after prep we will go out and play games and we enjoy BBQs in the summer. Recently, Field House has enjoyed many victories in inter-house competitions, not only in sport but in academia as well. Success in the Junior House Hockey and Junior debating are recent examples. Furthermore, in the older year groups we have won the Senior House Football competition. On the walls past the Shell day room and towards Mr Hanslip’s study, you can see all the past and present House pictures dating back to 1926; this reminds us that the boys in the House are not just representing themselves but those who came before us and the people to come after.The House’s unassuming appearance by no means reflects its beating heart, the camaraderie of Field House. FIELD HOUSE F ield House is a very inclusive and friendly boarding House; there is a positive relationship between each year group and a sense of unity within the House that is its defining character.With over 60 boys Field House offers the chance for all pupils, no matter what their talents or strengths to flourish – it is about being the best version of yourself. At break time there is a great atmosphere that revolves around our Matron Nicky’s surgery. Food is very important as we boys eat a great deal; in the evenings the younger years pile into the surgery to devour cereal, toast and an assortment of snacks.There is a relaxed atmosphere within Field House, with traditions such as having a Lobby King (social

SCHOOL NEWS

Summer term 2021 at St Edward’s was really successful!

Noah Roussel

Tom Helm

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