Interactive map

HOUSE VALUES

Dryden is a House that believes in celebrating the individual. Every girl brings something unique to the House, and the team take great pride in recognising and nurturing those strengths — whether they shine in the classroom, on the stage, on the sports field, or in the quieter moments of everyday life. With kind and considerate behaviour an expectation at all times, qualities such as honesty, integrity, common sense and clear communication naturally emerge in the character of Dryden girls.

THE HOUSE TEAM

The House is led by Gabi Murphy (Biology) having previously served as Deputy Housemistress in Crosby. Prior to joining Oundle, she spent 16 years immersed in boarding life at Felsted, Stowe and most recently Stamford Junior School, where she supported her husband in his Hsm roles. Making up the team at Dryden are Deputy Housemaster, Stephen Heath (Psychology, Proctor), Matron, Vanessa Leeson and a team of dedicated Tutors.

At the heart of Dryden is a strong sense of community. We are a House that looks out for one another, where kindness is instinctive and every girl is valued for who she is.

Gabi Murphy, Housemistress

LIFE IN DRYDEN

Daily life in Dryden reflects the rhythm and richness of Oundle’s full-boarding ethos. Girls live, learn and grow together in a community that is both busy and balanced – shaped by shared routines, strong relationships and a deep sense of belonging.

  • There are plenty of House activities, trips, competitions, sporting events, plays, and dinners to get involved in, ensuring camaraderie and friendship across year groups
  • Shared spaces including common rooms, the games room, prep rooms and the garden bring everyone together in a relaxed and informal way
  • Mealtimes are taken together as a House, offering daily moments for laughter and connection
  • There’s quiet time scheduled after supper each day for prep and House tutors are on hand to provide steady academic and pastoral support across School life
  • Older pupils take the lead in guiding the younger ones, helping new girls settle quickly and feel part of the House from day one.

TAKE A LOOK INSIDE DRYDEN

Dining Hall

Bedroom

House Garden

Meals are shared together as a House

Time with friends

Games Room

Bedroom

House Fitness Equipment

House Entrance

House Garden

What our pupils think

Dryden is a lovely and comforting community for us all. There are lots of opportunities to meet new people, make friends for life, and experience new opportunities. This might seem full on at the beginning and is likely to feel slightly overwhelming, but the community in Dryden is here to help keep you engaged whilst also making time to relax and have fun within House. The atmosphere is Dryden is extremely friendly and welcoming and everyone helps newcomers settle in quickly.

A BRIEF HISTORY

Dryden was designed by architect WA Forsyth and built in 1938 alongside Sanderson House.

It was named after the poet laureate, John Dryden, who, it is said, would sit on the steps of the Dolphin Inn on North Street (now Old Dryden) and compose his romantic verse. From its origins in Old Dryden, the House moved in 1938 to the purpose built House on Home Close.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT HOUSES AT OUNDLE

Want to find out more and arrange a visit in person?

Visiting Oundle