Airlie – Summer Term 1

22 May 2026 - Airlie

We had a wonderful start to the Summer Term and have been lucky enough to enjoy many days of sunshine, albeit with the occasional interruption from rain, hail and wind—just enough to keep things interesting!

Our first Closed Weekend really set the tone for the Term. We were treated to a visit from the petting zoo, which, as always, was a firm favourite, alongside giant inflatables that brought out everyone’s competitive (and slightly chaotic) side. With a churros van and ice cream also on hand, it is fair to say the day was a great success. There was a lovely sense of community, with staff and students alike fully embracing the fun, and it was certainly one of those days that reminds us just how special boarding life can be.

Airlie has also very much enjoyed welcoming the UIII Junior House girls. We spent time together over lunch and a picnic, which gave everyone the chance to get to know one another in a relaxed setting. It was really encouraging to see how naturally the girls connected, and there was plenty of laughter throughout. I know the LIV are now anxiously awaiting news of who their new House Daughters will be—there has already been a great deal of speculation! We are all very much looking forward to welcoming UIII properly into Senior House life in September.

The summer weather has also signalled the start of tennis season, and it has been a pleasure to see the courts so full during the Tennis Funals. There were some excellent rallies and no shortage of impressive shots across the matches. While we may not have come away as champions on this occasion, the determination, enthusiasm and strong House spirit shown by the team meant that Airlie felt like a winning side in every other respect. The support from the sidelines was equally commendable and very much in keeping with the inclusive spirit of the House.

This term also brought with it a more reflective moment as we said a final farewell to our Airlie Clarence leavers. The evening was a truly lovely celebration of the girls’ time at Wycombe, filled with fond memories and a few emotional moments. The speeches from the Head Girl Team were particularly impressive—thoughtful, articulate and full of genuine warmth. It was exciting to hear about the wide range of future plans our UVI pupils are preparing to embark upon. As they take their next steps and become Wycombe Seniors, we know they will carry their experiences with them, and that Airlie will always have a very special place in their hearts.

One of the most memorable and joyful evenings of the half term was undoubtedly the visit from eight puppies belonging to our school counsellor, Heather. The excitement ahead of their arrival was palpable, and the reality certainly did not disappoint. There were plenty of cuddles to go around, and for a while it seemed that all usual routines were happily forgotten. The girls (and staff) took their responsibility seriously in ensuring that none of the puppies wandered too far—although a few clearly had adventurous intentions! It was a wonderful opportunity to relax and enjoy a moment of simple happiness during a busy term.

As we moved into the latter part of term, there has been a noticeable shift in focus as the girls have turned their attention to their studies and upcoming exams. The UV pupils have made a very strong start to their GCSEs, approaching them with both determination and maturity. They have set an excellent example for the younger girls, who have been observing and taking inspiration from their approach. I have frequently heard the phrase, “we are ‘locking in’, Mrs Garcia,” which always brings a smile and is reassuring evidence that the right mindset is in place. Our LVI Mons have also been fantastic in supporting the younger pupils, running study nights and sharing their advice and experience in a way that has been both practical and encouraging.

As we look ahead, we are very much looking forward to a busy and exciting final half term, with plenty to enjoy including Dove Day, Glastonabbey and Sports Day. There is a real sense of anticipation for what is to come. At the same time, we are conscious that the year is moving quickly, and before long we will be preparing to say some important goodbyes in Airlie. The LVI will move on to Clarence, and we will also be saying farewell to both Miss Calder and Miss Caldwell, who have played such an important role in the life of the House.

For now, however, we are making the most of each day—balancing hard work with enjoyment, and continuing to celebrate the strong sense of community that makes Airlie such a happy and supportive place to be.