Spring arrives in Cloister

9 February 2023 - Cloister

After a relaxing Christmas holiday, Cloister House was once again filled with returning pupils, suitcases and lacrosse sticks! The first weekend back is always a closed weekend, and this January we held our first ever ‘Societies Sunday’. Girls could sign up for a wide range of activities from Rug Making, to African Drumming, to a mobile planetarium. A notable mention must go to Isabella and Eleanor who ran the Feminist Society activity. Their mural has been displayed in School and includes lots of inspirational messages. On the same weekend, the girls were treated to a silent disco along with a chocolate fountain. This was one of the first times in 2023 the whole School community could come together for a relaxing celebration. There was a range of different songs, a whole host of different dance moves and the night was enjoyed by all!

There have been some other fantastic weekend activities this term which have been enjoyed by the Cloister pupils. Bicester Village shopping was very popular, along with a theatre trip and Lunar New Year crafts and snacks. We have also had a wide range of in-House activities. Miss Monteil had a hugely popular ‘luxury hot chocolate’ night, we had facemasks and cheese and cracker night. The weekly ‘Toastie Thursday’ and ‘Fruity Friday’ also continue to be hugely popular. Open Mic night was another real success. The audience was so moved by Bella’s beautiful singing and we look forward to seeing more of her performances next term.

Mental Health Awareness week was a time for the House to reflect and think about what we can do to look after both our own and each other’s mental health. Miss Monteil started the week off with ‘Time to Talk Tuesday’ which was followed by ‘Self Care Wednesday’. On Thursday the LIV had a very competitive game of ‘Beat That’ with chocolate waffles to keep them nourished! We will continue to hold Mental Health awareness events throughout the year as it is such an important topic.  

Cloister has had a really successful term on the sports field despite the cold weather, and more girls than ever are contributing to a wide variety of sports. Pip has been leading Cloister in House Games to huge successes As a House we have competed with high spirits and some success in a range of sports including spikeball and trampolining. First House netball won their netball competition and are through to House funals at the end of the term. Particular, well done to Alisha, Hayat and Greta for their win in House squash and a special mention to Izzy B for her cheerful attitude across the year in House games.

We have lots to look forward to next half term in Cloister. Our House dinner falls on the final Sunday of Long Leave and I look forward to seeing many of the parents and guardians at this event.  I wish every member of the Cloister Community a restful and enjoyable Long Leave.