Boarding at Queen’s is full of life, warmth and opportunity. Our boarders are part of a caring community where every day brings something new to discover. From shared adventures and weekend activities to quiet evenings with friends, life in the Houses is designed to balance support, independence and fun. It is no wonder we say that at Queen’s, you will never be a bored boarder.
Houseparents and their teams create an atmosphere where pupils are encouraged to try new things, celebrate success and learn from every experience. Whether they are heading out on weekend trips, taking part in creative activities, or enjoying relaxed time together, boarders quickly find that Queen’s is a place where they can be themselves and thrive.
There’s never a dull moment in boarding at Queen’s. In the first half of the autumn term, new boarders begin to feel at home more quickly than they might expect. They settle into routines, discover interests, and grow friendships through a mix of weekend trips, socials and cosy evenings together. Across all our Houses this September and October, pupils have enjoyed a lively mix of trips, socials and relaxed evenings that have set a positive tone for the year ahead.
Cotlake House
Cotlake weekends have been full of fun and variety. Pupils enjoyed a trip to Minehead Skate Park, followed by a calmer weekend with swimming and inflatables at Taunton Pool, online quizzes organised by the pupils, a dog walk around the Lower with Towan, and some home baking. The term ended with a fantastic Halloween trip to Legoland with Mr Thayre and Mr Duke, which was an early start but well worth it for an unforgettable day out.
School House
School House has been full of energy from the start of term. The Speed Chatting evening for Years 11 to 13 brought pupils from different Houses together and helped to spark new friendships. The first Sunday trip to Clarks Village proved popular, with Wagamama’s emerging as the favourite stop. The junior boys enjoyed a trip to All Star Sports Bowl, while the senior boys headed to the cinema at the same venue. The first Sixth Form Social in the Wyvern Roost gave older pupils a relaxed and welcoming space to spend time together.
A go-karting trip to Bristol brought plenty of excitement, with Julius recording the fastest lap and taking the top spot on the podium. Late September sunshine made for a perfect outdoor pizza evening on the school grounds, complete with games of cricket and tag. Eight senior boarders represented Queen’s at the Ilminster Carnival, earning second place for their enthusiasm and teamwork. An Exeter shopping trip and a final bowling evening rounded off a packed and rewarding half-term.
Hutton House
Hutton boarders have enjoyed a wonderful mix of creativity and community. Highlights included a visit to Clarks Village, a surfing session for those who love adventure, and pottery painting at the Kiln Café. Back at school, evenings were filled with pumpkin carving, pizza making, baking, and a few relaxing activities with face masks and even a chocolate fountain. The Founders’ Day Walk brought everyone together, and the Sixth Form Social gave pupils a chance to unwind after a busy few weeks. A bowling trip to end the half-term added plenty of laughter and friendly competition.
