Robert Pearce House Restored to Former Glory and More

Published on isbi School News dated Monday 22nd of January 2018

Robert Pearce House, devastated by fire in September 2015 has re-opened its doors to pupils and parents. The newly renovated boys’ day and boarding house, which is currently home to 48 boarders and 17 day pupils, boasts both a welcoming and a nostalgic atmosphere, combining memories of the past with new state of the art facilities. On moving in last week, the boarders were delighted to discover all their bedrooms featured en suite facilities and everyone found the study areas well equipped with desks, secure device storage, charging points and power sockets and the common rooms great spaces for the boys to relax and wind down. The re-opening of Robert Pearce House was both a momentous, and an emotionally charged occasion for all. Some of the boys had been resident during the fire and during the renovation period the boys and House Parents had to make 'home' three different temporary accommodations so to finally move back into their beloved RPH was not only a relief but also tremendously exciting. Jeremy Gladwin, College Headmaster, commented, “On a personal level, having been one of the first on the scene dealing with the devastating fire that destroyed most of the original building it was sheer joy to see the delight on the boys' faces as they walked over the threshold at the start of term. I am thrilled that we have been able to retain the original facade on the Maze Green Road, an aspect of the building generations of pupils will recognise as the house they know and love. The common room is also a replica of the original and honour boards and pictures that were rescued from the original building take pride of place in the entrance hall and on the walls. Whilst retaining such reminders of the past, the new house is more spacious and, with en suite rooms throughout, a wonderful addition to our top class modern boarding facilities at the College.” Families interested in a College education are invited to book a private tour of the College with the Senior School Admissions Officer on admissions@bishopsstortfordcollege.org.