When I first joined Winchester, I saw the motto, ‘Manners Makyth Man’ – but not ‘Woman’ – as an outdated testament to a historical, patriarchal system. I was called brave for joining an institution only just starting its intake of girls, yet it didn’t feel like bravery.

I very quickly dissociated from the implications of an all-boys school: instead, I was part of a community where I was embraced and included. Being in the first intake of girls at Winchester College felt wholesome rather than daunting, and I’m so grateful I was given such an opportunity. Because of this, I am excited for the new girls’ boarding houses; I had such a strong community within mine, even as a day pupil, that I’m sure it will only enhance this sense of community.

I didn’t mean to choose Winchester College. I was enrolled at Peter Symonds, but a last‑second advert convinced me to apply, mainly for interview experience. I didn’t even know there was another college in Winchester until a month before my application, and I didn’t expect an acceptance. Upon receiving an offer, nonetheless, I am grateful to have been a Wykeham Award holder, without which I would have been prevented from joining at all. I didn’t know what to expect, but the experience was indescribable. Attempting to articulate it for an article is a challenge, but one I will try.