There are twelve Houses in total, seven for boarders and five for day boys. Each House occupies its own separate and individual building and has between 65 to 70 members across all five year groups.
Although each House has its own individual character, there is an even spread of numbers, year groups as well as abilities and talents throughout. Houses allow for boys to be an integral part of a smaller community where the staff get to know them really well, and it strengthens their sense of belonging and well-being giving them the confidence to venture out to take advantage of all that the wider and larger School has to offer. Tellingly, every boy believes fervently that his House is the best!
A Housemaster, and Matron in the boarding Houses, runs each House, and they are the focal point for your son’s life at Tonbridge as they have oversight for his academic and co-curricular progress as well as their pastoral wellbeing and he is invariably your first port of call. With the support of an extensive tutor team the Housemasters will get to know your son and your family extremely well over your son’s journey through the School.
The system offers a range of inter-House competitions in music, art, debating, general knowledge, and sports too. These competitions provide opportunities for all boys to participate, regardless of their skill level. The House system encourages boys to contribute to House life through plays, concerts, and other activities.
The atmosphere
The boarding House experience
At the centre of each of the seven Boarding Houses is the Housemaster and Matron, who together provide pastoral care for the boys. They oversee and support all aspects of your son’s life at Tonbridge. Each Housemaster is further supported by an Assistant Housemaster and five dedicated Tutors, who manage a year group, do one duty night a week, meet their tutees weekly for Tutor Time, join then for lunch at least once a week and get involved in all aspects of House life. Tutors have initial oversight of the boys’ academic progress and support your son throughout his time at the School.
Matrons, who play a vital role in managing the daily operations of their House, will develop a personal connection with each boy and their parents, offering emotional support and comfort particularly when your son is unwell.
Either the Matron or the Assistant Housemaster also lives in the boarding House.