BLAKE
YEAR 7 | DAY & BOARDING | CO-ED
Year 7 pupils begin their RHS journey in the friendly and supportive community of Blake House, whether they join us as day pupils or boarders.
From the very first day, they are welcomed into a nurturing environment where friendships are formed, confidence grows, and every child feels a true sense of belonging.
A dedicated team of caring staff is on hand at every step, offering guidance, encouragement, and a listening ear to ensure pupils feel happy, settled, and ready to thrive throughout their first year.
House
Facilities
Life in Blake House offers a warm, cheerful and inclusive atmosphere, where pupils enjoy a balanced mix of relaxation and engaging activities as part of their daily routine.
Evenings are lively and varied, featuring film nights, outdoor games, baking sessions, arts and crafts, social evenings and even Blake’s own Got Talent events. Competitions and star-gazing nights add an extra sense of excitement, giving everyone the chance to take part, have fun and shine.
Weekends bring plenty of opportunities to explore and unwind, with regular trips to places such as Alton Water, Harkstead Beach, Felixstowe Pier and Rendlesham Forest. Pupils also enjoy cycling adventures in Thetford Forest and visits to local sites of interest, ensuring weekends are filled with fresh experiences and memorable outings.
Blake House continues to nurture a friendly, caring and happy environment where every individual is encouraged to give their best, embrace new opportunities and thrive within the vibrant RHS community.
MEET BLAKE HOUSE STAFF
Kimberley Turner - Houseparent
Kimberley has extensive experience supporting pupils in a nurturing boarding school environment. Her passion for helping young people flourish in a home-away-from-home, and cultivating independence and confidence in a supportive setting, aligns perfectly with our ethos at RHS. In her free time, Kimberley enjoys singing, playing the double bass, skiing, and creating art, as well as exploring the outdoors with her family, and the young people she supports.
Mandy Hellmann- Assistant Houseparent
Geoffrey Turner - Houseparent
As Houseparent of Blake and Head of Year 7, Geoffrey brings both leadership and care to his role, guiding pupils through this important stage of their school journey. Passionate about fostering lifelong personal growth, he recently completed an MA in Character Education, deepening his expertise in supporting young people. Beyond school life, Geoffrey treasures time with his wife Kimberley, their two children, and the family dog, and enjoys keeping active through sailing and tennis.
Emma Coleman - Matron
Emma has responsibility for the domestic running of the house, as well as for medical provision, but her role is really to be there for the pupil in whatever way they need. Outside of her role, Emma is a busy Mum of two, with her eldest already at RHS and her youngest joining next year. She enjoys supporting their interests in football and judo, while her husband Dan is Head of EAL at RHS. A keen traveller, Emma has explored Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and much of Europe, bringing a love of new experiences and a broad perspective to the house.