Cowan House is named after the benefactors Michael and Hilary Cowan and forms part of the original Tudor manor house with extensive additions and alterations made over the years to turn it into a comfortable home for our female boarders.
Cowan House is divided into small areas or 'pods' in which pupils of similar ages live together. Most of the rooms have two beds with some triples and quads for younger pupils and singles for older girls. In the centre of the House is a cosy Common Room, a great place in which to relax and socialise. The Common Room has a small kitchen for making evening and weekend snacks and drinks and there is a laundry room with washing machine and tumble dryer. Many girls do their own laundry in the House but they can use the school’s central laundry if they wish.
There is a strong sense of community in Cowan House and we work hard to create a happy, relaxed and homely atmosphere in the House. Everyone is encouraged to take responsibility for themselves and to contribute towards the smooth running of the House whether that is tidying the kitchen or looking out for younger pupils. The days at YMS are long and busy, so sleep is vital. In order that everyone gets enough sleep we have age-appropriate bedtimes for all pupils.
There is Saturday morning school for everyone, but Saturday afternoons and Sundays are deliberately kept as free and relaxed as possible to allow everyone some downtime after a busy week. Pupils who are able to can go home from Saturday lunchtime to Sunday evening if they wish. For those staying in school we organise shopping trips into the local town and other weekend activities.
Cowan House is a happy, nurturing home-away-from-home in which everyone is valued for their individual and very special qualities within the close-knit house community.