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History & Ethos
The House was opened in 1974, and is named after Cranbrook School's chief benefactor John Blubery, a local man who acquired considerable wealth as Yeoman to the King's Armoury under Henry VIII, in 1518. The first Housemaster was Mr D Vear (1974-1980), then Mr G Balaam (1980-1987), followed by Mrs V McCormick (1987-2005). The current Housemaster is Mr J Usher.
The aims of this house have always been to foster an atmosphere of mutual respect, tolerance and independence. Most girls have duties on a regular basis, and develop an awareness of the importance of responsibility in a boarding environment very quickly. We are very keen on widening cultural horizons, and regular trips to the ballet, opera and theatre are planned throughout the year. Blubery House is also well known for running successful charity events and has supported Children in Need for nearly 20 years.
Facilities
Blubery is one of two girls' houses, and is centrally located on the School's campus; it therefore has the advantages of being very close to the Performing Arts Centre, the Queen's Hall Theatre, the Sports' Hall and the swimming pool.
Girls are mostly in single rooms, although when they join us in Year 9 they spend the year in a dormitory to ensure that they get a good introduction to boarding life and integrate fully with what is on offer at the School. The House has its own enclosed garden where the girls can relax. Inside we have several kitchens, two common rooms (with Sky television), a pool table and a table tennis table. Computer facilities are excellent; we have a room with 4 computers which are connected to the School network and a laser printer, although girls can use their own laptops as there is wireless connection in every room.
Staffing
Head of House: Mr Justin Usher
Live-in Tutor: Miss Amanda Tyburski
House MAC: Miss Vicki Ingle
Deputy MAC: Mrs Andrea Reading
Academic Tutors: Mr Justin Usher, Mrs Karen Kumar, Mrs Gillian Coulson, Mrs Jenny Birke
The following girls have responsibilities in the House:
House Captain: Alice Blaksley (Y13)
Deputy House Captain: Louise Garner
Sports Captain: Ella Gregorie and Yolanda McKean
House Achievements 09/10
Winners of Large Group House Shout Competition
Blubelle of the Month
Awarded to outstanding achievements including academic excellence, sporting success or excellence in the field of arts.
Summary of Blubery House Review, January 2008
Blubery House is a happy house with a firm but fair master at the wheel. House Spirit is high, with all the girls proud to be Blubelles and all parents willing to recommend it to others. Mr Usher has his family work hard to make the girls feel at home, and willingly welcome them into their home and make a point of making weekends special and different for those who cannot, or do not, go home.
There are issues to be addressed which include the refurbishment of the showers and baths and it is hoped that this will be addressed as a high priority within the school's finance.
Blubery has a lovely atmosphere. The girls feel safe and well cared for, and the vertical house system mostly works very well, with the seniors looking out for the juniors. The whole house team works well together and Mr Usher is to be congratulated on his fine leadership, concern and respect for his girls and staff.
P. Sorensen, January 2008
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