Boarding

Boarding and day girls all benefit from the family atmosphere of the house system. The younger girls aged 10-13 belong to Oakdale House and the Upper 6th have their own, separate Tower House. The GCSE years (Lower and Upper 5) have their House, as do the Lower 6. As well as belonging to these “horizontal” house groups by age, all girls irrespective of age belong to one of five “vertical” houses – Clarence, Lancaster, Lincoln East, Lincoln West and York. This allows for healthy inter-house rivalry to show itself through sport, drama and music competitions – not forgetting the all-important Merit Cup which is awarded annually to the House gaining most points for all the above plus academic work.

The independence developed by the boarding system is one of the marks of a Harrogate College girl when she leaves. It serves her well at university and many of the friendship made endure for life. Frequently visitors comment on the fine “ambassadorial” qualities our girls show.

The distinction between day girl and boarder is a slim one. All facilities are open to both. In fact, a number of senior day girls opt to board for their final year in Tower House. Not only are the living conditions second to none, but they are 'buffered' from distractions during the run-up to 'A' level examinations.

During the two Exeat weekends each term the boarding houses remain open for girls unable to travel home or to guardians.