Robin Fletcher, CEO of the Boarding Schools Association (BSA) officially opened the new boarding house at Bede’s Senior School this morning. Although the new boarding accommodation, Dorms House, opened its doors to the very first students at the start of this term, Bede’s were delighted to welcome Mr Fletcher to the official ribbon-cutting event. The grand opening welcomed both current and alumni pupils from old Dorms House, contractors, Sunninghill, Bede’s Estates team, Governors and house staff for this very memorable occasion.
Bede’s has a reputation for its outstanding boarding provision – boasting five stunning boarding houses, two of which have been recognised by the Institute of Chartered Surveyors for their Outstanding Design and Innovation. The latest addition to the boarding portfolio was a project started before the pandemic and whilst delayed, the finished result is testament to the hard work and dedication of both external contractors and Bede’s own Estates team.
The stunning new development features inspiration from its location next to the South Downs and includes modern facilities, accommodating 70 beds with scope for higher capacity, as well as a 170 square meter atrium, learning spaces, flexible spaces for meetings and conferences, offices, kitchen facilities, and storage areas. It also uses an eco-friendly heat source as part of the Trust’s pledge to reduce its carbon footprint and create a greener environment for their community. There is a focus of nature and the environment throughout the house, featuring wood finishes and floor to ceiling windows.
Guests to the opening event heard emotional speeches from Bede’s Chair of Governors, Mrs Watkins and Headmaster and CEO, Peter Goodyer, before the official ribbon cutting after which guests were invited to tour the facilities, now very much home to the boarders.
This opening event recognised all of the hard work that has gone into the 3-year plan and build of the stunning new boarding house. It also marks the beginning of a new chapter for Bede’s pupils – particularly those in Dorms house who have a new home from home.
Robin Fletcher, CEO from the BSA remarked: “It was an honour and privilege to be invited to open Bede’s new boarding house, Dorms, see such excellent facilities, meet the dedicated members of the house boarding team and some of the boarders. Dorms is a great example of first-class, 21st century boarding accommodation which I am sure will be appreciated by all current and future students.”