Settling In, Team Spirit and Sunshine at Eton

With the first week now well underway at Eton, the energy across campus has been bright, much like the weather itself. The sun has stayed with us, making for a warm and cheerful setting that encourages students to be outdoors as much as possible. This has added to a playful, relaxed atmosphere where students are bonding quickly, both within their houses and across the wider community. It’s hard to believe they’ve only been here for a couple of days, given how naturally friendships are forming and how comfortable they already seem in their surroundings. Staff have been enjoying getting to know students and building trusting relationships, creating an atmosphere that feels both supportive and fun.

In the classroom, the first academic sessions have set the tone for an engaging summer of learning. In STEM, students explored the history and practical use of Morse code, learning how to both decipher and send messages using this early form of communication. This hands-on approach sparked plenty of curiosity and interaction as students put their new knowledge into practice. Activities like this not only build new skills but also bring students together in collaborative and memorable ways.

While there haven’t been any full-day excursions yet this week, students have had their first opportunity to explore the local area with an orientation visit to Eton and Windsor. This early outing gave them the chance to get to know the beautiful town they’ll call home over the coming weeks. It was a relaxed way to settle in, understand their surroundings, and begin feeling part of the wider community here.

Wellbeing and social time have played a big part in the daily routine already. Afternoons have been filled with a variety of activities, giving students the chance to choose something they genuinely enjoy. Options have included swimming, basketball, drama games, and watercolours — with most students getting their first pick thanks to well-balanced planning. It’s been clear that having this choice makes a difference, as students have been more engaged and enthusiastic. There’s also been a strong focus on team spirit. A highlight has been the evening Capture the Flag tournament, which brought the whole campus together in a fast-paced, exciting game that encouraged teamwork and gave everyone a good runaround before winding down for the night. Earlier in the week, students took part in a photo challenge around Eton, working in groups with activity leaders to complete fun tasks while getting more familiar with the area. These kinds of group events are already laying the foundation for a strong sense of community.

The atmosphere throughout these sessions has been full of energy, and it’s been great to see so many smiling faces, whether in the pool or on the court. One member of staff commented on the high levels of endorphins and camaraderie that these activities seemed to create, and it’s easy to see how these shared moments are helping everyone feel more connected, confident, and at ease.

Overall, it’s been a fantastic opening few days at Eton. The mood across campus is warm and lively, with students settling in both academically and socially. Friendships are growing, routines are forming, and each new activity is helping to shape what is already beginning to feel like a very special summer.