The FoB funded the combined efforts of two student-led societies whose remit is to reclaim unloved sections of the school grounds and pursue the Eco-Schools Green Flag designation for Borlase.

The FoB funded the launch of a 13-person STEM-focused student team dedicated to designing, building, and racing an electric go-kart as part of the Greenpower Education Trust.

(Image source: Greenpower.co.uk)

The FoB funded the launch of a student club dedicated to designing, making, and flying radio-controlled model aircraft, sparking students’ interest in engineering and aerospace and perhaps flying as a hobby or a career.

(Image source: The British Model Flying Association)

The FoB funded the purchase of materials for an open circuit wind tunnel designed and built by a Y13 student as a Gold Crest project. This resource will remain in the Borlase Physics department for student use and aerodynamics experiments.

The FoB purchased five new footballs for each year group to encourage active play during break times.

A future purchase: an outdoor storage solution for the gear.

The FoB funded the purchase of a new mixer and CD/USB player for the portable public address system staff and students use during assemblies and events – and of course, exams!

FoB Co-Chair Emerita Chrissy Longley was inspired by studies showing that even a 15-minute break can help teens re-regulate their nervous system. 

In Autumn 2022, with design input from neurodiversity expert Isobel Rogers, Chrissy led a small volunteer team in refurbishing two underused, tired-looking Cloisters rooms. Our innovative Wellness Hub includes a dedicated decompression suite: the Quiet Room.

An oasis in the noisy, busy school environment. Students can relax on a lounger amid soft lighting and calming aromatherapy scents. They can listen to binaural beats that sync with and lower their pulse and choose from mindfulness meditations and other resources in the Wellness Toolbox. After a decompression session, students can return to class refreshed and ready to learn.

An important FoB project was refurbishing the school Counselling Suite. With fresh paint and cosy furnishings, we transformed a drab office into a warm, welcoming room. Counsellors and students can now meet in an inviting, relaxing space that better suits the important time they spend together.

Many thanks to FoB Co-Chair Emerita Chrissy Longley and parent volunteer Andrew Dean.