Cloister House Autumn Term Two
11 December 2023 - Cloister
In the wise words of Slade… “IT’S CHRISTMAS!” I have thoroughly enjoyed my first half term as Cloister Housemistress, even more so because of the Christmas cheer in the air. The Autumn Term leading into the Christmas break at Cloister is nothing short of magical. As we gather under the twinkling lights and festive decorations, the air is filled with the warmth of camaraderie and the excitement of various competitions. This Autumn term, our boarding House experienced a whirlwind of events – from the eccentric Guy competition to the inter-house cookie competition, topped off with a victorious House ensemble performance.
The Guy competition, a cherished Wycombe Abbey tradition, is an annual contest where creativity knows no bounds. This year, our entry involved a quirky character aptly named “Mushy Peas on Skis.” Three questionably looking paper mâché peas resembling a pea pod, complete with skis strapped to their feet, our creation turned heads and sparked laughter throughout the House (and subsequently the School!). The effort and creativity poured into this masterpiece earned us a well-deserved third place in the competition, much to our surprise! The inspiration behind Mushy Peas on Skis Guy was a testament to the unique and light hearted spirit that defines life at Cloister. In a world that often takes itself too seriously, the Guy competition allows us to embrace our playful side and showcase the creativity that flourishes within the walls of Cloister House!
As the cheers for ‘Mushy Peas on Skis’ echoed through the Cloister halls, another triumph awaited us in the House ensemble competition. Lead by the wonderfully talented Bella Zhang; Sophia Strachan, Kelly Chan, Sisi Zeng, Catherine Li, Vivienne Yang and Sophia Bong took to the stage to play a mesmerising rendition of ‘City of Stars’ from the hit movie La La Land. The House ensemble competition not only highlighted our musical talents but also reinforced how hard the team had worked to pull such a fantastic performance together in just three sessions. Winning the House ensemble competition wasn’t just a victory for our musical skills; it was a celebration of the collective spirit that makes Cloister a home away from home.
One of my favourite memories so far has been watching the LIV decorate the Cloister Christmas tree. Seeing them work together and enjoying every second was definitely what Christmas is all about. Of course, we continued the tradition of the youngest girl in House putting the star on top, which this year, was Milly Gander. Amidst the festivities, the cookie competition added a delectable touch to our Christmas celebrations. Enthusiastic bakers from LIV, armed with a recipe from the Cookery department, they set to work making six identical cookies which would be judged by Head Chef Paul. Our entry, a batch of mouth-watering biscuits all beautifully adorned with intricate icing designs replicating a Christmas Wreath were fantastic and not a soggy bottom in sight! Although we did not place, it was a brilliant experience for the LIV pupils to throw themselves in to.
To finish, as I write this blog, we are entering the last few days of Christmas festivities. Secret Santa gifts have been exchanged and we are eagerly awaiting our annual Christmas lunch. On a personal note, I would like to say how much I have enjoyed being Housemistress to your daughters, I have been welcomed with open arms, as have my husband and daughters. I wish you all a Merry Christmas and happy New Year and look forward to seeing many of you at our Cloister House dinner in January.
