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By Gordon Dale, Senior Houseparent on 6.2 Flat and Teacher of Physics
Over the past term, we’ve begun an exciting project to refresh and refurbish the dormitories in the 6.2 boarding house, the heart of Senior boarding life at Bedales. There are around 42 dorm rooms in total, and while the process is necessarily gradual (given how full we are during term time), we’ve already completed eight rooms. Each one represents a small but significant step in making our students’ living spaces even more comfortable, practical and reflective of the Bedales spirit.
The new dorms feature fresh carpets, curtains, furniture, paintwork and lampshades, all chosen by the 6.2 boarding team. We’ve opted for neutral tones that suit both the boys’ and girls’ floors, aiming for warmth and calm rather than the institutional feel that school accommodation can sometimes have. Every decision, from the paint finish to the angle of the desk, has been made with student wellbeing and independence in mind.
The redesigned furniture creates more floor space without sacrificing work areas. Some dorms have been completely refitted with new wardrobes, desks, beds and bedside lockers; others have had more modest updates depending on their needs. What’s most rewarding is seeing how the students make the rooms their own. Posters, artwork, photographs, and rugs quickly turn these fresh spaces into reflections of the individuals who live in them. We want our boarders to feel that their rooms are truly theirs, a place to retreat, recharge, and feel at home.
We’ve also been intentional about creating an atmosphere that prepares students for life beyond Bedales. 6.2 Flat has more of the feel of a university hall of residence than a traditional school boarding house. Students have access to designated kitchens on the boys' and girls' floors as well as a well-equipped communal kitchen from 7.30am until 10pm and often cook for themselves. Fruit, bread, and biscuits are always available; as in any good home, a steady supply of snacks is key! They also take full responsibility for their own laundry and room upkeep, and it’s impressive how tidy and considerate they’ve become. Living well with others requires mutual respect, and our Sixth Formers rise to that challenge admirably.
Socially, the 6.2 Flat continues to reflect Bedales’ values of trust and community. Boys and girls are free to socialise in each other’s rooms until 9pm, when they return to their own floors or communal spaces. After that, alarmed doors secure the different areas, a practical balance between freedom and responsibility.
Day students are equally integrated into boarding life, often using dorms as social or study spaces. It’s not unusual to see a three-desk room with only two beds, designed so day students can work alongside their boarding peers well into the evening. They can arrive as early as 7.30am and stay until 10pm, helping to create a genuine sense of shared community.
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