Quotes from students
Listen to the Experts…
"It's one big sleepover with a routine - one big family."
"Everyone knows everyone else."
"A universal, cultural experience."
"I think more people should board!"
When being shown around Ratcliffe, I was shocked at how I was immediately hopeful, that I might actually find a place to fit in and get through the next 2 years. I was dreading it because of the major change I was about to embark on. Now, I’d gladly stay my whole life here because of how comfortable and welcome this school has made me feel, from the moment I was shown around by a lovely 6xth former. I’m now a part of the jigsaw puzzle that is Ratcliffe, and I feel as though I fit perfectly. Not having been ‘the new girl’ in 16 years, made me feel scared about moving to a place where absolutely everything was new. With the new friends and people I’ve met here, I feel prepared to take on any challenge.
"When I first started boarding, I was quite emotional. I didn’t know where to go or who people were. After about 3 days, I gained my confidence and now I know everyone I bump into. I now think that boarding is great! It provides me with a lot of facilities and HAPPINESS! I think that the boarders and boarding staff are such fun. As I walk through the door with my suitcase I am welcomed by them all. I think boarding is great! I ♥ boarding! " - Year 7 boarder
"Boarding is great. In the evening we have so many options to do activities and have fun. If you want to relax, the boarding staff are happy to let you. At the weekend they put on many things. I have enjoyed a fun day, cooking, a shopping trip into Leicester and many other activities. There is always plenty to do. When I first came, I was terribly homesick, but with the support of the boarding staff and the girls in boarding I became settled and within a term Ratcliffe College boarding has become like a second home. I really enjoy boarding and I am really glad I came. Everyone is really friendly and nice." - Year 9 boarder
‘There is a homely atmosphere in boarding; it is good to have your friends around you all the time; boarding is like having an extended family; you can ask the older students for advice.’
‘The quality of the boarding staff is exceptional; they are very friendly and there is a good relationship between the staff and the students; you can see lots of different staff in the evenings and at weekends, to talk to them about work or other matters; the Gap students are really nice and you can talk to them as a halfway point between students and staff.’
‘You can take part in lots of different activities; you don’t get bored because there is always lots to do; you can get lots of work done in prep and quiet hour.’
‘Boarding helps you to develop your social skills because you mix with everyone; you can learn about different cultures; boys and girls mix well together; there are no cliques because everyone knows everyone else; there is not even a hint of bullying; people stick up for each other.’
‘Boarding makes you independent; it really helps your personal development.’
‘There are good facilities for work and leisure; the Sixth Form Centre is a real bonus and you have good access to computers and the school network.’
-
‘It is difficult to think of anything bad about my boarding experience at Ratcliffe; I have no criticisms at all.’
