Since joining RHS in year 9, I’ve been involved in a range of extracurricular activities that have really helped me settle in and feel at home. I play the cello, bugle, trumpet, and I’m part of the brass ensemble, Big Band, marching band, and concert band. I also enjoy sports like hockey, netball, and cricket. Aside from music and sport, I’m involved in philanthropy and Amnesty, and I’m currently applying to become a Peer Mentor. Out of everything I do, Big Band is my favourite. It’s a smaller group of people, and the atmosphere is always fantastic. I also really enjoy the style of music we play.
As a full boarder in Howe, I’ve found the school incredibly supportive in helping me settle in. The house feels cosy and homely, with decorations like bunting, and we’re allowed to personalise our own space. Being able to bring things from home has really helped me adjust and feel less homesick. Everyone here is so friendly, and the duty staff are always approachable. I arrived at the same time as a few other new students, which meant I never felt alone during the transition.
One of my favourite memories at RHS has to be winning House Shout, the inter-house singing competition. It was such a fun experience working together as a team, and when we won, the whole group celebrated in the day room. It was a moment of real pride, seeing how our hard work paid off.
My favourite place at RHS is definitely the Music School. The facilities are incredible, and the grounds are just as impressive. After being away from school, returning to the Parade Square and seeing the river is always an inspiring sight.
RHS has also done a great job preparing me for life after school. The Peer Mentor process has been valuable for developing skills like listening and helping others, and the Sixth Form Evening gave me insight into which subjects I might want to study further. The CCF programme has taught me self-discipline and punctuality, and boarding has helped me learn to live with others and respect their boundaries. PHSE has been particularly useful for managing stress and looking after my wellbeing.
If anyone is thinking of joining RHS, I’d say join as soon as you can! Having that sense of trepidation can be totally worth it as the school offers so much. There’s also plenty of academic and wellbeing support, which has been especially helpful as I prepare for my GCSEs. It’s clear that everyone at RHS genuinely cares about each other, and that’s what makes it such a special place to be.