Boarding
Day in the life
Head Boarder's address at Boarders' Christmas Party 2009
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Welcome to the Candle Light Service! On behalf of the boarders, I would like to thank you all of you for coming. I would also ask you to join us in thanking Mr Bell and his catering team for this wonderful meal.
Time flies without us realising it. I still remember when I first arrived in Polam Hall, I was really worried about whether I would be allowed to go out freely? Would I get access to the Internet? Would I get enough food to eat? Now I can really say that the Polam Hall boarding is one of the best. We can easily get access to food and everyone in upper sixth has gained a great deal of weight since arriving.
Last year was definitely the most special year in my life. My nurturing parents no longer protected me and I had to make lots of important decisions on my own. I am so glad now that I had the courage to go for the post as a head boarder, since this has transformed me into a totally different character.
Before coming to study in the UK, I seriously lacked confidence. I never imagined myself standing in front of audiences, giving a speech in a foreign language. Although my workload is heavy, I still enjoy the life here and have learned to work hard and play hard to utilize my time. I wouldn’t have had such a high degree of flexibility in my old school. Here I have been able to try out new things and all these contribute to who I am today.
Boarders Candlelight Supper December 2009
In the past year, I have become much more independent and organized. My parents cannot supervise me in my studies so I need to be determined in getting my work done. The boarding life is so enjoyable and I particularly appreciate the celebrations for Chinese Festivals like the moon festival and Lunar New Year. Going window-shopping in Leeds, York or Black pool is also relaxing.
The mutual support between boarders is the loveliest part in boarding. We all face difficulties in our daily life and studies but we know that there is always somebody to turn to.
Being a leader is no easy task. As well as the general duties of organising washing time, prep duty or seating plans, the most challenging part is to be the peacekeeper. As we are all living together, quarrels are inevitable, but under the premise of peace and harmony, we all need to try our best to prevent these from happening.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the boarding staff for their tolerance. I have often been the troublesome one who messed things up, but you have always been there to help me. Thank you.
I will be going forward to another stage of studies in my life but I will never forget the unconditional support, guidance, encouragement and moments of happiness I have had in these 2 years in Polam Hall.
First impressions from Ingrid who started in Polam Hall Sixth Form in September 2008
Hi! I am Ingrid, a Lower 6 student from Hong Kong who has just started the new school year at Polam Hall this September. I can still vividly remember how nervous and anxious I was before I came to the UK. There were weeks of sleepless nights when I lay on bed staring at the ceiling, wondering whether I would be able to make any friends or whether I could adapt to the new environment. Yet, I was soon proved to be overly worried. I was welcomed by teachers and classmates on the very first moment when I stepped into the Theatre. I am impressed by the people’s friendliness and sincerity. They offer me a warming hand from time to time and help me settle down quickly.
Parents may be concerned with academics, but in fact, there is nothing to be worried about. Because of the small class size, teachers are able to focus their attention on individual students and we have a lot of opportunities to express our ideas. Also, books for wider-reading and research are always available in the library and classrooms.
Extra-curricular activities at Polam Hall add zest to my school life. I am now a member of the Senior Choir and Debating Team. It is an excellent way to meet more new faces and brush up my English by engaging myself in different activities. In the coming months, I will also join the Interact Club and Drama Production as well. There is a wide range of academic, cultural, music and sports activities you can participate in here and they are all fun!
I understand that being in the completely foreign country alone is not at all easy, but with the help from staff and schoolmates, as well as the housemistresses in boarding house, you will surely enjoy your new school life here at Polam Hall.
