Sophie and I have been boarding house parents for fifteen years at Westbourne House and the proof of the pudding is in the eating. We see many Old Westbournians return to share fond memories of time spent in our boarding house. Adults who have made their way in life still remember the dormitory competitions, hot chocolate nights and games. We love the family atmosphere and we get to know the whole child. Our own children have enjoyed being an integral part of the boarding environment. So much so that they have been keen to board at Westbourne House themselves!
Sophie and I are involved in all areas of the school. Sophie teaches in Year 3 and I am head of Religious Studies and Learning4Life. We see all of the children in all contexts. Children from all year groups have spent time boarding with us in The Dower House and we can support them whatever their age. The relaxed environment in boarding often affords time to chat about worries inside school or out. We are able to give reassurance and help solve any problems.
We are devotees of simple family games. Everyone in the house can switch off and give each other the uninterrupted attention so richly deserved in busy times. Visitors to The Dower House are likely to be drawn into playing Consequences, Empires, Spoons, Hot Potato and many, many other games.
The Dower House is a unique boarding environment. There is one dormitory within the family house, so it is a shared space. We feel very privileged to be a part of the Westbourne boarding team.
Tim Pitman