“The eclectic array of talent in Saunderites ensures that life in the House is never boring. With a plethora of academic scholars, outstanding sportsmen and gifted musicians and artists, the standards are inevitably high. This is not to say that it is an elitist House; first-timers are encouraged and fostered, while the facilities on offer, such as the computer room (the best of any House), ensure that there is always something to do even if you are not keen on mainstream activities.” (Year 13 House Monitor)
“Mrs Allen, our Housemaster, is always approachable and has time for all members of Saunderites. Equipped with a consummate Matron and an enthusiastic chef, not to mention a set of excellent cleaners, the staff behind-the-scenes at Saunderites are invaluable to the running of the House. They really do make our lives trouble-free and allow us to concentrate on honing our talents and interests.
The main focus, as in every educational environment, is naturally on academic work. The ample space in our rooms to put our books enables us to get on with the work in a relaxed and comfortable manner, and there are a host of computers available throughout the day for academic use. One of the great benefits of Saunderites is its location; within a minute’s walk of the main academic buildings, the House is perfectly placed for going to lessons or the library.
Although the sports fields are further away, this does not discourage the House from having a strong sporting reputation. We are always striving to reach the final of any sporting competition, which we have done in several sports during the past few years. And even if you aren’t one of the best sportsmen in the House, there is always the more enjoyable ‘Colts’ or ‘Tics’ team to play in.
Our musicians have recently won the House Music Festival, which speaks volumes for the musical talent in Saunderites. We also performed very well in the House Art Competition, with excellent contributors from every year group” (Year 13 pupil)
“Saunderites is one of the friendliest Houses at Charterhouse. Although boarding school will be unavoidably daunting to those coming here for the first time, the Housemaster and all the students try to make the transition from prep school as easy as possible. With the entire House having undergone recent refurbishment, rooms are fitted with all the furniture and facilities we need, and the size of the rooms does not necessarily equate to the year you’re in. With a sociable atmosphere, Saunderites is a prominent House on all fronts, and I would thoroughly recommend it to you.” (Year 12 pupil)
“Pupils’ social development is outstanding. They show admiration for the achievements of others, and understand the differing needs among their peers.” (Independent Schools Inspectorate)
Saunderites is the ‘senior’ House in the School because, until the 1950s, the Headmaster of Charterhouse was also the Housemaster of Saunderites. The present Headmaster still retains part of the House for his study and waiting rooms. One of the original buildings at the heart of the School, Saunderites combines the splendour of the Victorian gothic with a recently-refurbished comfortable and practical interior. The private side was designed by the first headmaster of the Godalming Charterhouse, William Haig Brown, for his wife, nine children and servants, and originally most of the boys slept in long dormitories. These are now gone, and boys are accommodated in either single or twin bedrooms. The House retains its own dining room a short walk across Scholar’s Court.