“I really liked getting to know new friends and bonding further with my former friends. My favourite activity was the waterslide,” said a Year 7 student.

A strong sense of belonging does not happen by chance – it grows through connection. At Meriden, we intentionally create opportunities for girls to connect in meaningful ways, because connection is the foundation of wellbeing and learning. Our camp program brings connection to life through shared adventures, challenges, and experiences that help students step outside their comfort zones, build resilience, and form strong friendships.

Last week, our Year 7 students experienced this firsthand at Friendship Camp, designed to help them begin their Senior School journey by forming long‑lasting friendships through team‑building and outdoor adventure. The purpose of the camp is simple but powerful: to help each girl see that she is valuable as an individual and as a member of a team. Through activities such as sailing, rock climbing, and nature exploration, the girls built confidence, developed social awareness, and created shared memories that will support them back at school.

But connection continues well beyond camp. Belonging grows through the everyday moments our students choose to embrace. We encourage girls to engage fully in the cocurricular program, whether that is joining a sport, a musical ensemble, robotics, debating, or a service activity. Saturday sport offers a unique chance to get to know teammates across year groups, building camaraderie and school spirit.

Connection also forms through small, intentional actions: sitting with someone new, meeting new peers, joining a club, asking thoughtful questions in class, or checking in with a tutor. These simple moments strengthen both confidence and community.

“I liked the competitive spirit and the building of friendship after every activity,” said another Year 7 student

At Meriden, we know that when students feel connected, they feel they belong, and when they belong, they thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.