Sally Arnold, Acting Head of Boarding
A Frensham Tradition of Creativity and Camaraderie
At Frensham, the Friday night activity is a beloved tradition that forms an integral part of the boarding school experience. It’s a time for students to unwind, bond, and embrace their creativity in a fun and engaging environment. Led by the Year 12 girls, this weekly event has become a hallmark of life at the school, offering a unique blend of laughter, teamwork, and imagination.
The start of the new year has seen the Friday night activities kick off with a bang. Week one brought the magic of a Disney theme, followed by the whimsical chaos of a Rhyme Without Reason theme in week two. Students are already eagerly awaiting the announcement of this week’s theme, ready to dive into more creative dressing and fun-filled activities.
One of the key components of the Friday night activity is the dress-up theme, which changes every week. This is where the real fun begins. Each House has a dress-up box filled with a random assortment of items that students can use to create their costumes. Once the theme is announced, the scramble to pick the perfect pieces begins. Some students prefer to interpret the theme individually, while others join forces to dress as a group, bringing even more energy and creativity to the mix. The results are often mind-blowing, showcasing the imaginative spirit of the girls.
For many, dressing up is more than just a fun Friday night activity—it’s a skill that Frensham girls perfect over time. By the time they graduate, they have honed their ability to creatively dress for any occasion, a talent that makes them stand out at college and university events. Old girls often speak fondly of their Friday night experiences, particularly the thrill of dressing up and performing skits related to the theme.
Once the girls are dressed to impress, they gather for dinner. Here, the Year 12s, responsible for running the event, judge not only the quality of the costumes but also any little skits or performances the girls have prepared that tie into the theme. The winners from each year group are announced to tumultuous applause, adding an element of friendly competition and recognition.
After dinner, the girls head to the evening’s main event, which varies each week. Whether it’s a dance battle, trivia contest, cops and robbers, disco night, or a scavenger hunt, the activities are designed to be high-energy and full of laughter. These moments of joy and camaraderie provide a perfect way to close out a busy week.
As the night winds down, the girls return to their respective Houses, tired but happy. The dress-up boxes are carefully stored away, awaiting the next Friday night. In the meantime, the memories of the night—laughter, creativity, and the sense of belonging—linger as a reminder of the special bond that makes Frensham so unique.