Ratcliffe College – Lockdown Silver Linings

Mrs Alison da Costa, Ratcliffe College (Assistant Head, Head of Boarding, Deputy DSL), reflects on the positives that have come out of the last 18 months.

The Pandemic threw some incredible curve balls at Boarding schools and we were no exception here at Ratcliffe College. Despite the distance, the fear and the worry that the whole world was feeling, we found some delightful silver linings to being in lockdown – the biggest being the reminder to stop. Breathe. Talk. Listen. 

We suddenly found that “only” having online lessons afforded us time we never knew we needed. Stepping away all the “added extras” of school life actually meant we had time to stop, talk and listen. We found the small group round a firepit toasting marshmallows gave all personalities a chance to shine.

We grew into our Sunday morning Brunch sessions online. We all joined, from all corners of the world – some drinking their morning tea and some eating their evening supper. And we simply chatted and laughed. It made us remember that talking is essential. Stopping is essential.

So we thank the Pandemic for reminding us to add in “Time to chat” into our new boarding routine.

Ratcliffe College is a Catholic independent school in Leicestershire. Providing a co-educational experience for ages 3-18, with boarding from age 11.