58 new pupils kicked off their Lower Sixth adventure a day ahead of their new year group, settling into College life alongside the other new starters and fresh faces. Their first evening included house drinks, a shared supper, and an introduction to the Master and the Senior Management Team. To round off the night, a fast-paced quiz helped everyone relax and start making connections: despite the unwelcome inclusion of the ever-unpopular Mathematics Round…
Their first full day as Marlburians was devoted to assimilating into Sixth Form life and orientating themselves around the campus. Heads of Department guided pupils through their final A level subject choices, and they were introduced to both the library – and the upcoming, much anticipated Halloween and Harry Potter evenings – and gym provisions. Tours with their Heads of House followed, along with meetings with pupil Ambassadors for Wellbeing, Digital Learning, and the Marlborough Mindset. A talk on boarding life provided valuable insight into what lies ahead and the welfare support available to them from the outset: with the Senior Chaplain, Senior Medial Officer, Lead Counsellor, Head of Boarding and Deputy Head for Safeguarding all making themselves known. The afternoon held a chance to burn off some of the nervous energy and socialise, with taster sessions in squash, fives, rackets and cricket, followed by a much needed time to relax at the BBQ supper with Heads of House and Prefects.
With the entire year group transitioning into the increased demands of their new A level courses, pupils have been encouraged to reflect on their roles within the community and discover the new opportunities for leadership and self-development provided by Ambassador roles, Devizes to Westminster training, Combined Cadet Force leadership training, essay prizes, pupil councils and Model United Nations. Many have also chosen additional Outreach placements, taking them beyond the College to support education and care in the wider community.
Team sports have quickly filled timetables, with pupils either extending their existing skills or trying out unfamiliar disciplines for the first time. House spirit has been equally strong, fuelled by activities such as the House Cross Country, House Harmony rehearsals, and a variety of weekend House trips and excursions. Each of these has helped nurture a sense of belonging and shared pride.
After donning the new uniform, one of the first big markers of Sixth Form life was the first Marlburian evening, a Saturday night tradition that unites the year group and marks the beginning of their shared journey: enhanced this year by the opening of the new outdoor space at the Sixth Form Centre.
The Sixth Form allows for one opportunity not often seen in wider life: the second chance at a first impression. Watching the Lower Sixth take this message to heart by grasping every opportunity has been nothing short of inspiring. Their energy, positivity, and eagerness to contribute already enhances our community, and the year ahead promises even greater growth as they look to enrich their personal journeys for the collective good.
Danielle Lilley
Head of Lower Sixth
