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House Values

Laundimer is a House where year groups mix well and where those entrusted with positions of responsibility carry out their duties fairly, with the benefit of all in mind. The House values qualities of honesty and integrity; and living with these as guiding principles gives rise to a civilised, cultured and ultimately unique community of young individuals

The House Team

Housemaster, Richard Howitt joined Oundle in September 2023 along with his wife, two daughters and Foster the dog. Richard was previously a Housemaster at Malvern College and, before that he taught at St Edward’s, Oxford for several years, where he was Head of Geography, Head of Year and finally Head of Sport. Joining Richard are Deputy Hsm Rob Macdonald (Maths; Cricket coach; Debating; CA), Matron, Fiona Greaves, and a team of dedicated Tutors.

Laundimer is not simply a place to reside, it is a haven where boys become part of something greater than themselves. I want Laundimerians to feel as though they belong and are involved in something to which they want to contribute positively and proactively, but from which they will also gain an enormous amount in return, including friendships, memories and achievements, all of which will last a lifetime.

Richard Howitt, Housemaster

Life in Laundimer

Daily life in Laundimer reflects the rhythm and richness of Oundle’s full-boarding ethos. Boys 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 library, prep rooms and a garden with tennis courts 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 boys settle quickly and feel part of the House from day one.

TAKE A LOOK INSIDE LAUNDIMER

What our pupils think

In Laundimer, we pride ourselves on maintaining an excellent House spirit, whether it be on the sports field or on stage. We have a great community, so there is nothing to be worried about. We embrace individuality and quirkiness, which is a defining factor that makes us such an entertaining and charismatic House.

You have so much to look forward to at Oundle (especially if you choose Laundimer, fondly known locally as “The Brown” because of our House colours) and very quickly you will find yourself feeling at home.

A BRIEF HISTORY

Laundimer House was built in the 1830s for Richard Tibbits. During the latter decades of the nineteenth century, it was owned by Lord Lyveden, and its name was probably taken from the woods which formed part of the Lyveden estate near Brigstock. It was once the residence of Robert (later Baron) Vernon Smith, who was MP for Northamptonshire in the mid-nineteenth century. Laundimer House was purchased in 1916 after the Grocers’ Court sanctioned an increase in the number of pupils that could be admitted to the School.

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

Visiting Oundle