Page 11 - Old Ratcliffian Magazine 2017

NEWS FROM THE COLLEGE 11

CLASS OF 2017: REFLECTIONS ON OUR FINAL YEAR

**EDITOR’S STAR ARTICLE!**

It’s hard to summarise a year which has had so much significance
to the whole of Year 13 in so many ways. From the jeers to the
tears, from the heartaches to the McDonald’s study breaks, each
defining moment has led us to where we are today and, more
importantly, to who we are. We have created endless channels
of memories entwined with one another’s experiences - pieces
of our past which attach to us like magnets, so strong that we
simply can’t pull away. In reflecting upon our experiences, there
are two themes that, I think, have been essential in underpinning
our time at Ratcliffe:

COMPANIONSHIP

The 2017 leavers undoubtedly faced some of the hardest
challenges that a year group has had to face. Without the Holly Blount (17) & Olivia Latham (17) at the 2017 London Dinner
security of each other’s companionship, some of these tests
would have been unbearable. But through this, our hands have had to leave something behind in their move to their next
remained bound together. It was in these moments that we, as chapter in life, which may be the reason why we’re constantly
young adults, became aware of the bond that had being growing drawn back to it. As the Class of 2017, we have had to leave
inside us throughout the years that we had spent together, someone very important behind. Therefore, in loving memory of
like an unbreakable force which was reaching its full potential. Charles Evenden (17), I ask you, new Old Ratcliffians, to look to
Unbeknown to us, Ratcliffe had allowed this to blossom during the future, and to aim for your goals, no matter how high. But in
our years at the School, due to the strong sense of camaraderie everything you do, look back to Ratcliffe, and always remember
between both teachers and students, effectively underpinning where you came from.
the teachings of compassion and community within the Catholic
Church. Holly Blount (17), with additions from Olivia Latham (17)
Ratcliffian Association Prefects
Yes, in Year 7, we may have ‘hated’ that boy or girl who broke
our heart or who didn’t invite us to that party, but in Year 13,
everything seemed to fall into place. Our differences dissolved,
and we knew that whatever tests came our way, we could face
them together. And we did. However, it is easy to look at this unit
and forget to look closer. We may have connected in our shared
respect for Ratcliffe, but a key essence of our strength was the
acceptance that we are all unique, which brings me to my second
point:

INDIVIDUALITY

Regardless of interests, intelligence, and even language barriers,
the friendships between all types of Ratcliffe students thrived in The Star Inn 1744, a vibrant free house situated on The Green in
our final year (with our final Immac being proof that the language the stunning village of Thrussington, has been converted from a
of dance was all that was needed to bring the English and Thai sleepy community pub into a nine-bedroom inn with a high-quality
contemporary restaurant and bar.
students together!). As we look more closely at the friendships
that we made, we may realise that, outside the School, these are The ‘Star Yard’ - their newly refurbished beer garden - has real-
entirely unconventional. The welcoming aura which pervades flame outdoor heaters and a large wooden pergola, providing a
cosy indoor feel to the outdoor space.
Ratcliffe has allowed us to step out of our comfort zone and
make these transitions between groups, and even cultures. We The Star Inn takes pride in serving a wide range of superb home-
cooked dishes, using fresh produce. Where possible, they source
learnt from each other, taught each other, and we welcomed their ingredients from quality local suppliers.
each other. All we need to do now is take a step back to reflect, Why not stay the night when visiting Ratcliffe? The Star Inn
and realise that it is the environment that Ratcliffe provided has nine en-suite bedrooms, all of which have been designed and
which created the entirely unique person that each Year 13 furnished to provide a feeling of modern luxury.
leaver is today. To book a table or a bedroom, call 01664 424220
or email info@thestarinn1744.co.uk
So, now, as our channels begin to separate, it is important to The Star is owned by Alistair (00) & Nicole Richardson (03)
remember the core from which we all began. All Ratcliffians

Register online for our new website: www.ratcliffianassociation.co.uk

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