Downside School opens new Sixth Form Centre

A new Sixth Form Centre has been opened which is proving a great success for pupils and staff alike.

Downside School is excited to announce the official opening of its new Sixth Form Centre, a modern and inspiring space that has quickly become a favourite hub for both Upper and Lower Sixth pupils.

Housed in the building that once served as the monks’ refectory, the Centre blends the rich architectural heritage of the school with contemporary design elements to create a dedicated space for study, relaxation, and social interaction. The Centre is thoughtfully equipped to support both independent and group study, with comfortable sofas, refreshments, and even a snooker table, generously donated by a former pupil.

“The new Sixth Form Centre is an exceptional addition to Downside, offering our pupils a serene yet vibrant environment to grow, study, and relax,” said Andrew Hobbs, Downside Head. “This unique space not only provides the perfect setting for independent learning but also fosters a sense of community, allowing our Sixth Form pupils to strengthen their bonds and form new friendships. It will play a key role in nurturing both their academic and personal development as they prepare for the next stage in life.”

The Centre has already made a significant impact on pupils’ experiences at Downside. James, an Upper Sixth pupil, shared, “The Sixth Form Centre is an amazing space—I try to come here whenever I have a free lesson. It’s such a calm environment to work in, but also a great place to catch up with friends and meet new people.” Emma, another Sixth Form pupil, added, “I love being in the Sixth Form Centre. It’s truly inspirational, and it feels special to have our own space to gather while still being connected to the main school.”

Mr. Rawlins, Head of Sixth Form, reflected on the Centre’s importance in the school’s evolution: “In my 27 years at Downside, we’ve seen many changes, but the opening of the Sixth Form Centre is a landmark moment for the school. It offers our Sixth Formers a space that mirrors what they can expect at university—providing both a quiet place to study and a vibrant social area where they can form lasting memories. This space is a reflection of how we value our pupils and their future success.”

Downside has been fortunate to collaborate with Matt Podesta (S86), a former pupil and furniture designer, who crafted the stunning oak furniture that complements the Centre’s aesthetic. Matt shared, “Being asked to design the Sixth Form Centre was a special project for me. My time at Downside ignited my passion for design, and it’s an honour to contribute to a space that will support future generations of pupils.”

The Centre is housed in the former monks’ refectory, an iconic building designed by Francis Pollen, a renowned British architect of the Roman Catholic Liturgical Movement. Pollen’s modernist design was ahead of its time, incorporating innovative use of concrete and brick to create a space of simplicity and grandeur. The Centre’s design respects and enhances Pollen’s architectural vision while providing a functional and contemporary environment for the school’s Sixth Form pupils.

Andrew Hobbs also expressed his gratitude for the support received from the Downside community, saying, “This project has been a true collaborative effort, and I want to extend my thanks to Matt and Claire Podesta for their incredible generosity and expertise. We are also deeply grateful to the Abbot and Trustees of Downside Abbey General Trust and to the St. Gregory’s Society for their support in making this project a reality.”

The Sixth Form Centre has already become a vibrant space for pupils to connect, study, and relax. Pupils have praised its calm, inspiring atmosphere, which has enhanced their academic experience and expanded their social circles. The flexible layout and design, which includes spacious tables for group study, has made it a popular alternative to the library.

As Downside continues to honour its traditions while embracing forward-thinking education, the new Sixth Form Centre stands as a testament to the school’s commitment to providing its pupils with the best possible environment to prepare for life beyond school.