Boarding Life in Cambridge: A Warm Welcome

For many, this marks another year of study in the UK, but for others, it was their very first experience. These new students arrived a few days earlier with their families, taking the opportunity to explore the historic city of Cambridge together before term officially began.

Already, the boarders have quickly formed a vibrant and harmonious community, eagerly anticipating the start of the new academic year. With spirits high and rooms now feeling like home, our boarding students are ready to embrace the opportunities ahead.

Inside Boarding Life: Head of Boarding Interviews Matron Flora Thompson

Meet Flora Thompson, the heart of our boarding community and the first face many of our students see at the beginning and end of a busy school day. As our dedicated Matron, Flora provides essential care, organisation, and a listening ear, helping to maintain the "homely feel" of our boarding houses. Head of Boarding Denise Hammersley recently caught up with Flora to learn more about her love for the city, the rewards of her varied role, and the unique benefits of boarding at Stephen Perse Cambridge.

Have you always lived in Cambridge?

I have lived in Cambridge all my life. I went to primary school in Cambridge followed by a local secondary school and Sixth Form college and my daughters also now attend local primary and secondary schools.

What do you particularly enjoy about your role as Matron in the boarding houses?

I like getting to know the boarders well and building a relationship with them and I enjoy hearing about their experiences in school when they return at the end of the day. I also enjoy the variety that my role offers with no two days in the boarding houses being the same. I might be testing fire alarms, arranging doctor/dentist appointments or listening to boarders issues.

What benefits do you feel students get from boarding here at Stephen Perse?

The boarding houses are very centrally located so it is easy for boarders to spend time in Cambridge city centre - shopping, going to the cinema or having dinner with their friends. The boarding houses have a lovely homely feel so boarders enjoy coming back to the house after school to relax and socialise with friends.

What do you like to do in your free time?

What free time? Most of my free time is taken up with my daughter’s ballet classes and rehearsals. Other than that, I really enjoy being in the garden. During Covid we created beds and replanted all the potted plants from our previous house which was a big project. Other than that, I really look forward to holidays with my family.