Celebrating World Boarding Staff Day at Shrewsbury School

On Monday 2 March, the Institute of Boarding, part of the BSA Group, marks World Boarding Staff Day, a global celebration recognising the dedication, care and commitment of boarding staff around the world.

At Shrewsbury School, it is a fitting opportunity to celebrate the remarkable teams who make our boarding Houses true homes from home.

The House system lies at the very heart of life at Shrewsbury. Our 12 Houses, seven for boys and five for girls, are vibrant, supportive communities where pupils live, learn, relax and grow together. Each House is led by a dedicated Housemaster or Housemistress and supported by Assistant House staff, Matrons, House Tutors, Administrators and Housekeeping teams. Together, they form a close-knit network of daily care and support.

For many staff, boarding is more than a job; it is a way of life. As Sarah Foynes, Matron of Churchill’s Hall, explains:

“There is no role quite like living and working in a boarding house. No two days are the same. Being a Matron isn’t just a job — it’s an immersive experience: a constant presence, a confidant and a cheerleader, helping young people navigate school life as they grow.”

That long-term impact is something Jo Crisp, Matron of Queen Elizabeth Hall, values deeply:

“My favourite thing is when students still contact us after they've left to keep us up to date with what's going on. It makes you realise what impact you have had.”

That sense of shared purpose is echoed across every role. Sophie, from the Churchill’s housekeeping team, says:

“It’s really nice to be part of a boarding house community. We feel part of the house and of the boys who call it home, and we enjoy helping to make it a place where they feel comfortable and looked after.”

For Mrs Anita Wyatt, Housemistress of Mary Sidney Hall, the immersive nature of boarding is what makes it so rewarding:

“I love the fact that the boarding community is wholly immersive; you are fully involved in the pupils' lives, which makes you part of their journey, which is a privilege and incredibly rewarding. The boarding environment is vibrant, the children extraordinary and opportunities exciting.”

For others, it is the privilege of witnessing growth over time. David Wray, Housemaster of School House, reflects:

“Over time you see children grow up and develop in so many ways. It’s amazing to watch them head off to their next adventures after being part of their lives for so long.”

Matthew Barrett, Housemaster of Riggs Hall, values the moments of shared pride:

“The best moments are when the whole House comes together — celebrating success or simply enjoying being together. There’s a real pride in seeing pupils so happy and proud of their House community.”

The strength of boarding at Shrewsbury lies in teamwork. Nicki Fleck, House Administrator, highlights the sense of belonging behind the scenes:

“The best thing about working in a boarding community is the support network you automatically have access to. You truly feel part of a team which cares about young people, both in and out of the classroom.”

Richard Barrett, Housemaster of Churchill’s Hall, says:

“I love boarding because it allows me to walk alongside young people as they grow, giving them the roots of a caring supportive community and the confidence to step confidently into their futures.”

Adam Duncan, Housemaster of Severn Hill, reflects on the enduring connection pupils feel to their Houses:

“Nothing sums up the essence of boarding better than the number of pupils who come back to say hello and check up on how their old House. It is always great to catch up with them on life since they left, but the most special thing is to see their genuine affection for the community, their continuing joy in every House triumph, and their appreciation of what a significant part the House has played in their school life.”

Clare Wilson, Housemistress of the Grove, adds:

“As a housemistress I have enjoyed being a part of the journey for so many girls through their time at Shrewsbury whether its 2,4 or 5 years. I particularly love seeing so many different personalities come together, share their passions with each other and forge lifelong friendships that extend far beyond the confines of school life.”

Ceri-Lyn Cissone Hunter, Assistant Housemistress in Mary Sidney Hall, highlights the privilege of seeing the whole person:

“We get to see the same student who may struggle with their maths homework play brilliantly on the football pitch and finally achieve their triple pirouette in Dance, before settling down for s’mores round the fire pit back in House. It’s the opportunity to see the full picture, and know that you are some small part of that.”

House Administrator Helen Keyworth reflects on the strength of community within boarding:

“What I enjoy most about being part of a Boarding House is the sense of community you get from the House as a whole. We all support each other and are there to give the pupils encouragement, help, and a place where they can feel at home.”

This World Boarding Staff Day, we thank every member of our boarding teams, past and present, for the care and commitment that make Shrewsbury’s boarding community the special place it is today.