Woldingham School - a superb venue

The grounds of Woldingham School occupy 700 acres in an area of outstanding natural beauty in the heart of Surrey. Historically it is linked with the Sacred Heart Convent at Roehampton. Marden Park was purchased after the second world war, the new school opening in 1946.

The Good Schools Guide speaks of "a hugely supportive and cooperative atmosphere" at the school; the various highly impressive displays of work help to show this to the visitor. Along with the other clergy, I'm in "Berwick House" which is the accommodation for sixth formers. It is very impressive - you can imagine the way in which the common areas help to build a sense of community in the school.

For a student conference such as the Faith Summer Session, the facilities are outstanding. The Auditorium where the lectures are given is a fully equipped theatre, there is a swimming pool available for our use in the afternoon together with a state of the art gymnasium, squash and tennis courts and - well you can also use your legs and explore Marden Park Woods which is the largest site in the country owned by the Woodland Trust.

The food is excellent and very wholesome - it is great to see active young students tucking in with gusto after an afternoon of sports and games; there is pretty well something for all tastes and those with a big appetite seem to be happy enough. In the evening, there is a well run and friendly bar for people to wind down and chat away. All in all, it is a superb venue.

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