Summer of simple joys and lasting memories
Boarding life has been full of warmth and energy this term, with long summer evenings providing the perfect backdrop for friendship, fun and a few well-earned treats.
From watching World Cup football together to BBQs, discos and the much-anticipated visit of the ice cream van, there has been a wonderful sense of community throughout.
For our Year 8 boarders, these moments have felt especially significant as they prepare to move on. Time spent playing games in the garden, chatting late into the evening, enjoying cards (with Taco, Cat, Goat, Cheese, Pizza proving a firm favourite), heading into the woods or endless bowling and batting in the cricket nets has all contributed to a term rich in shared experiences and lasting memories.
Our full-time boarders have also made the most of their weekends, heading off on a range of exciting adventures from trips to local waterparks and theme parks to days at the beach, embracing every opportunity to explore, unwind and have fun together.
A particular highlight has been the continued success of our Real Tennis programme. Year 8 boarders have trained and competed at Petworth House, experiencing this historic and highly skilled sport under the guidance of professional coaches. In the Prep Schools Real Tennis Tournament, Westbourne’s top pairs secured a narrow but impressive victory, with Freddie T and Freddie F winning all of their matches. The team also enjoyed success in a festival of matches against Wellington College, showcasing both their skill and sportsmanship.
This term also brought some heartfelt farewells. We said goodbye to Mr and Mrs Fisher, our exceptional Heads of Boarding, whose kindness, care and unwavering dedication have meant so much to so many. At the final disco, pupils danced around them and at the end of term there were many heartfelt hugs shared, a fitting tribute to two people who have created such a strong sense of home for our boarders. We wish them every happiness in their next chapter.
We also bid farewell to our much-loved ‘gappers’, who have brought energy, companionship and fun in abundance. As one pupil put it: “Harry and Tom are just older than us and they know about the things we love. We have great chats and play games. I will miss them.”
It has been a term that perfectly captures the spirit of boarding: friendship, opportunity and the kind of everyday moments that stay with you long after the summer fades.
