St Hilda's
The origins of St Hilda’s can be traced back to 1876 when Miss Margaret Newman, a friend of Miss Beale, opened a modestly-priced students’ home (mainly for trainee teachers) at 5 Grafton Terrace in Cheltenham. Miss Newman died that same year and Miss Beale appealed for money to continue her work. For a time she rented Jersey House in Hewlett Road, but by 1884 enough money had been raised to buy a site for a purpose-built house. The architect was John Middleton, who had designed the original College buildings; he unfortunately did not live to see the opening of St Hilda’s on 27 November 1885. It was Miss Beale’s choice to name the house after the 7th century Abbess of Whitby, who had been a patroness of learning as well as the founder and ruler of a great religious community.
The accommodation now caters for both lower and upper sixth formers and it is well-equipped with 59 single studies and shared communal areas. Each room has its own wash hand basin and is adjacent to a shower and separate toilet. Bathrooms are well distributed over each floor. There are a total of three common rooms, each with a kitchen area and comfortable seating area. All common rooms have a TV, video/DVD/CD players and microwave. There is a beautiful library next to the Drawing Room with four computers and a printer for you to use.
Words to describe St Hilda's
St Hilda’s aims to create a happy and relaxed atmosphere in which girls feel at home. House staff work together to provide a secure and caring environment in which each girl can develop as an individual, foster her ability to work within a team and feel valued within the College community. The qualities of caring, courtesy, communication and co-operation are emphasised. St Hilda’s House is a multi-talented house. Whether in music, drama, sport or art, all the girls are encouraged to build on their talents and try new opportunities. During your stay here you will enjoy a series of fun events and parties so please make sure you bring a nice dress with you!
Housemistress
I have been working in College for over eight years, having previously lived, worked and studied in Bristol. I moved to Cheltenham in 2004 with my husband Jochen who works in International Education and we have a son, Cassian, who is nearly seven. As well as being Housemistress I belong to the Modern Languages Department where I coach Spanish.
I have lived and worked in several countries and I thoroughly enjoy travelling and reading about other cultures. In my spare time as well as enjoying many productions at the fabulous Parabola Arts Centre, we attend endless children’s parties and meet with our many friends in Cheltenham.
Mrs Roca-Aguilera