West House

Boys’ Boarding House for Years 9-13

West House is more than just a boarding house – it’s a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive community that feels like a second home. Known for its warm and friendly atmosphere, West embraces every individual, encouraging you to follow your passions – whether in sport, music, drama, art, or academics.

Housemaster: Mr James Nicholl
Assistant Housemaster: Mr Patrick Miller
Matron: Miss Zowie Higgs

West House was founded in 1878 and the current building was opened by the Queen Mother in 1961. Perhaps our greatest claim to fame is that the eponymous character in ‘Goodbye Mr Chips’ is based on a former Housemaster of West House, W.H. Balgarnie; the original novel was written by former West pupil James Hilton.