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St Swithun’s welcomes new Le Roy Housemistress, Orla Duffy |
St Swithun’s congratulates Mrs Orla Duffy on completing her first term as Housemistress of Le Roy (our Lower 4 boarding house). She brings extensive experience in girls’ boarding and a commitment to bespoke pastoral care for our youngest students.
Orla began her career in education as a Resident Tutor straight after university, developing a deep interest in boarding life. Since then, she has worked with girls from Year 3 to Year 13, supporting pupils at every stage of their boarding journey.
Alongside her boarding experience, Orla is a qualified Religion, Philosophy and Ethics teacher. She holds a BA in Philosophy and Theology from Durham University and a PGCE from the University of Oxford and has taught the subject up to A Level.
In 2023, she completed a master’s degree in Residential Education, focusing on mental health and wellbeing in girls’ boarding. At St Swithun’s, Orla says she will “provide truly bespoke pastoral care within the happy and nurturing environment.”
My aim is that every family feels confident that their daughter is valued, supported and understood during her time in Le Roy. Boarding offers girls so many fantastic opportunities, enabling them to achieve their academic and personal goals, forging lifelong friendships, and having lots of fun along the way!
St Swithun’s has an experienced boarding team in Le Roy, who provide a nurturing environment for the youngest boarders who may be away from home for the first time.
Outside school, Orla enjoys singing, reading and visiting the theatre.
Recognising that boarding can be a big adjustment for both girls and their families, Orla emphasises her open approach and willingness to discuss any concerns.