Bleed Blue: A Term of Pride, Progress and Belonging
25 March 2026 - Barry
Barry House is defined by a deep sense of belonging that connects pupils across year groups and even continents. In this edition, we share two reflections: one from a pupil moving on to Clarence, and another from a pupil joining us from across the world. Together, they capture the warmth, support, and spirit that make Barry so special. Whether for years or just a few weeks, Barry leaves a lasting impression.
Once a Barry Girl, Always a Barry Girl
When it was time to leave Barry after Lower Sixth, I came to the realisation that all good things must come to an end. My time in Barry holds some of the most special memories of my years at Wycombe Abbey. It has shaped some of the most formative moments of my life, supporting me in becoming the person I am today.
One of my favourite memories from Barry was being in a mixed-year dorm during my GCSE year. I know this is not the most common choice, as many of my peers chose to room together, but I can honestly say it was the best decision for me. Being in a mixed-year dorm allowed me to step away from the intensity of exams and avoid becoming overwhelmed by academic pressure. That time at the end of each day—chatting, laughing, and sharing small moments—helped to put everything into perspective and reminded me that exams are not the be-all and end-all.
The support within the dorm was incredibly special. It ranged from a deep sense of respect and understanding to the unforgettable moment when my space was decorated with balloons, paper chains, and sweets. It was such a thoughtful gesture and meant a great deal to me. Looking back, I feel immensely grateful for the kindness and encouragement I experienced during that time. The Barry community is truly unique, and I will always value the friendships I built and the memories I made.
Reflecting on my journey, the advice I would offer to those moving from Barry to Clarence is simple: do not forget your roots. Since moving, I have found that the Barry staff remain as enthusiastic, caring, and supportive as ever—always ready to listen or offer guidance. Even a smile in the corridor can make a difference. Each time I return to Barry, it feels as though I have never left. It is a place you can always come back to, and a community you will always belong to.
I know that I will always be a Barry girl. It is a House that stays in your heart, and I will forever look back on my time there with great fondness.
Leanna (Clarence )
From Brisbane to Britain: A Boarding Adventure
Travelling from Brisbane to Britain was quite the journey—around 22 hours in the air! My school offers exchange opportunities with eight different countries, and I was thrilled to be placed here at Wycombe Abbey.
Spending time at Wycombe as an exchange pupil has been a truly unique and memorable experience. Living in Barry House has been a particular highlight, and the interactions between different year groups create a strong sense of community, making the House feel like one big family.
Adjusting to school life took a little time at first. Being so far from home, there were moments of homesickness, but the boarding community was incredibly welcoming and supportive. The school days here are longer than at my school in Brisbane, and I have to admit that I have got lost several times on the vast campus! I have also taken part in badminton as an extracurricular activity, which has been a great way to stay active and meet new people. I was slightly disappointed to discover that British people do not actually walk around saying “Bo’ohw’o’wo’er” all the time—clearly the internet exaggerated that one…!
One of my favourite trips was visiting Corpus Christi College in Oxford with the other exchange pupil from my school, Lauren. The historic streets were beautiful, and we also visited Blackwell’s Bookshop, which was enormous and filled with endless shelves of books.
Weekends in boarding are often full of activities. Cookery sessions have been a highlight, and trips to Eden Shopping Centre are always enjoyable. Another memorable moment was celebrating Chinese New Year in Barry House, with plenty of food and festivities.
During Long Leave, I also explored London, visiting places such as the British Museum and Tower Bridge. Overall, adapting to life here—boarding in a different country, trying new activities, and exploring new places—has been an unforgettable experience.
I am incredibly grateful to Ayomide and her family, the Barry pupils, staff, teachers, and the LowerVs for making my stay such a wonderful and memorable experience.
Ritz (Exchange Pupil)
House Karaoke: A Celebration of Growth and Joy
Watching the younger girls perform at House Karaoke was truly touching. Amidst a busy term and a significant influx of work, we all appreciated the uplifting and rejuvenating spirit of the evening—how could we not? From ambitious attempts at harmonies (a special mention to Flo and Cressy) to impressive acrobatics—some of which took a few tries to perfect—the performances were nothing short of delightful.
Each dorm brought its own creativity, with costumes and full faces of makeup transforming the stage—or rather, the living room floor. Performance after performance, we saw not only enthusiasm but genuine courage and imagination. Pupils stepped out of their comfort zones, cheered one another on, and captured the sense of community and joy that defines Barry House.
What began as a simple evening activity became something much more meaningful: a reminder of how quickly we are all growing—not just taller or older, but into individuals each and every one of us should be proud of.
A special congratulations to Wellington; there were tears during their final, winning performance to a song from all our childhoods, When I Grow Up. Thank you to everyone who made our last Barry Karaoke such a special memory—we will certainly be coming up from Clarence to visit next year!
Eva O, Rahi (LVI)
House Successes
It has been a vibrant and successful period for Barry House, with energy, talent, and teamwork evident across a range of activities. In the lead-up to the Lacrosse Finals, the atmosphere in the House was electric. From dorm feasts to chants echoing through the corridors, there was a palpable sense of excitement and unity, with every pupil playing their part in building momentum and House spirit. That same determination has been reflected across the House more widely this term.
Our debating team—Annika, Anna, Natalie and Amelia H—delivered an outstanding performance to reach the final after a strong win over Airlie, demonstrating confidence, clarity, and teamwork. Similarly, in the House Quiz, Tiwonge, Macy, Victoria and Linzi secured a decisive victory over Campbell in the finals, winning 230 to 130 in an impressive display of knowledge and collaboration. A special mention also goes to Amelie, who played an important role in the earlier rounds.
Barry also shone on stage in Guys and Dolls, with a confident and captivating performance that brought energy, charm, and real theatrical flair. A special mention to Abbey, Macy, Tiwonge, Snehrrwita and Flora for their cracking performances.
Winners of House Music, House Singing, House Debating, House Quiz and House Netball, and second in Sports — a superb end to the Easter term.
Bravo, Barry. I am so very proud of you all.
Clarkey
It is time to say goodbye to a much-loved member of the Barry family—Miss Clarke. You have brought such energy, laughter and warmth to the House. From Toastie Tuesdays (and Thursdays), to Mario Kart, and even completing the Barry family tree, you have left your mark in so many memorable ways.
The girls have been incredibly grateful for your support in Mathematics and for your calm, approachable and encouraging manner, which has made such a positive difference to so many.
On behalf of the girls and staff, we wish you every happiness in Cloister. You will be greatly missed—not only for your presence, but certainly for your distinctive laugh. Take care, and all the very best.
House Singing: Once Again, Barry on Top!
Once again, Barry is on top! From early rehearsals at the start of term to a late-night Big School practice on the eve of the performance, we have been working tirelessly since the beginning of February.
Performing Budapest by George Ezra, we brought energy, confidence and real House spirit to the stage—because we’d give it all up for Barry. Even in the final moments of preparation, there was a real sense of unity and excitement, and we are incredibly proud of what we achieved together.
A huge thank you to the entire House for their hard work and enthusiasm. A special mention goes to our instrumentalists—Elizabeth, Anna, Youyi, Linzi and Grace—for their outstanding contribution, and to Elizabeth for stepping in so seamlessly with less than 24 hours’ notice. Abbey, Emily, Tiwonge (LVI)
Closing Reflections
As we reflect on all that has been achieved and experienced, we are reminded of what makes Barry House so special—the people, the spirit, and the sense of belonging that endures long after pupils move on.
It has been a joy to witness these moments of growth, connection, and achievement across the House.
We also extend our very best wishes to Ritz. It has been a pleasure having her in the House; her calm, kind, and thoughtful manner has been deeply appreciated, and she will be greatly missed. We wish her every success and happiness in all that lies ahead.
Finally, we wish all parents, pupils, and the Barry community a happy and restful Easter.
