Over 200 members of our boarding community donned their dinner jackets and bow ties to gather for the inaugural Boarders’ Spring Dinner on Wednesday 27 April. This special event was put on to celebrate a wonderful year of boarding ahead of IB and A-Level exams.
The Great Hall looked splendid set up in cabaret style, with tables stylishly dressed in black linen – something a little bit different for the boys to experience. They enjoyed a sophisticated three-course fine-dining meal cooked and served by our in-school caterers, Sodexo. As the event was held during Ramadan, food was kept warm for our Muslim boys who were able to enjoy their meal at sunset.
The boys and staff were delighted to be joined by special guest, Old Bedfordian Damon Pattison (82-87), who gave an entertaining after-dinner speech about his time as a boarder and Head of House at Pemberley. Damon, who has enjoyed a glittering career as an award-winning Creative Director for popular TV shows such as Who Wants to be a Millionaire, You are What You Eat, and more recently the hugely entertaining Pooch Perfect where he works with Sheridan Smith, shared funny anecdotes of his time at school.
After the speech there was an opportunity for boys to gather in groups to capture the night in a photo booth before ties were loosened, and jackets flung over chairs, while boys took to the dance floor to bust some moves to a DJ set performed by Feyi.
“The event was brilliant fun. The food was incredible, and the service staff were straight on it. It was a great opportunity for the whole of the boarding community to come together.”
“I started boarding in the Sixth Form which has really helped with my independence and organisation. I wanted to do it now because I felt it would be the best two years of my school life and I could make the most out of everything the school has to offer. I have got some really good mates in different year groups and lots of international friends and this evening was a great way to celebrate with them.”
