From Kenya to Cumbria: Daniella’s Journey of Adaptation and Growth at Sedbergh School

Daniella’s journey from Pembroke School in Kenya to Sedbergh School in the UK is a testament to her adaptability and enthusiasm for new experiences. Currently studying A levels in psychology, business, and drama, Daniella has her sights set on university, where she plans to pursue a degree in criminology. Her transition to Sedbergh School, despite being a significant change, was eased by the familiar boarding lifestyle and the supportive community she found here. In her own words:

“I came from a boarding school in Kenya, so when I looked at it, it was pretty similar in terms of the lifestyle and the sports, music, the balance. So, I thought it would be good to come here; like a home from home.

It was definitely a massive change because I’ve literally left home and come to a whole different country. But in terms of boarding, I was used to it because I came from a boarding school in Kenya. It’s definitely different compared to the environment that I left at home. It takes a bit of adjusting, but you get used to it.

My favourite thing about boarding at Sedbergh is that we do everything together. We come back [to the House] and we have meals together. From year nine to 11, you’re sharing a room, so you’re together with your friends. Now, in year 13, we’re in our own rooms but we share the same corridor. It’s the togetherness of it and just spending time together; that’s what I really like.

There’s loads of extracurricular activities that I’ve taken part in. I’ve attended School of Athens, listening to topics and discussion and I do music lessons and attend choir. I also do sports every term and go to the gym a lot as well. So yeah, there’s a lot of balance with things going on all the time.

The boarding staff were really welcoming. They constantly check up on you when you’re new because sometimes when you’re new you don’t know whether to speak up, but they come into your room every evening, check if you’re okay, make sure you’re going to the right place at the right time. So I feel like they definitely guide you in those beginning stages and the more independent you get, the more they lay back and just watch you get on with it – just stepping in whenever they need to help you.

What was most helpful in adjusting to life at Sedbergh would probably be the friends you make at the start because everyone’s really welcoming and it’s really important for you to have those friends that you can rely on when you’re feeling down. It’s definitely important to have those friends that you can really speak to and they can help you stop feeling a bit homesick.

My favorite memory of Sedbergh, even though at the time I wasn’t really enjoying it, would probably be running the Fells on Wednesdays. It was tough, but looking back at it, it was really fun! I was doing it with my friends, so I really enjoyed that. If you’re coming to Sedbergh, I would say to you, it’s genuinely so beautiful here, you’re going to enjoy that. The weather is definitely crazy, so that’s also something you have to get used to. When it’s hot, it’s hot. When it’s cold, it’s really cold. The town is really nice and there’s a lot to look forward to.”

Daniella’s story is one of resilience, community, and finding joy in new challenges. Her experience at Sedbergh School highlights the importance of a supportive environment and the lasting friendships that are formed along the way.