About the House
School Field, designed by George Gilbert Scott and built in 1852 overlooking the Close, became the first boarding House, apart from School House, to be owned by the School. It is also the House where Rupert Brooke lived as a child and took over from his father as Housemaster for a term. The House was redeveloped to change the accommodation available during 1997-98 and was further redeveloped and modernised in the summer of 2014.
All boys in School Field have their own study bedroom from the day they arrive. The House features separate common rooms for the year groups as well as a mixed common room; these areas, which are all equipped with TVs and a kitchenette each, are the perfect space for the boys to relax and socialise away from their packed timetable.
The House is well-known for its sporting prowess, and its proximity to the historic Close with its spacious New Big Side neighbour, maintains the high level of rugby football and cricket played by the boys.
The Music Schools and Macready Theatre are also nearby and boys will often avail themselves of the chance to take on extra music practice or to attend drama rehearsals. The Temple Reading Room (library) is across the road – another benefit of School Field’s central position on the School campus.
Mark Fowle, Housemaster
Mark Fowle gained a degree in History and Politics at the University of Sheffield, before gaining a PhD in Politics and International Studies at Warwick University. His thesis focused on peacebuilding and reconciliation – a useful foundation for running a boarding house. Mark trained as a teacher with Teach First, qualifying with a PGCE from UCL, and remains passionate about teaching and learning.
Mark joined School Field as Housemaster in September 2022. He has been a History and Politics teacher since 2011, teaching at Pimlico Academy, Parliament Hill School and JAGS in London before returning to his native West Midlands in 2020.
Having worked closely with the Stephen Lawrence Charitable Trust in the past, Mark puts wellbeing, mental health and belonging at the heart of School Field.
Mark is proud of his town and the wider region and wants all the boys to leave Rugby with sense of place. Mark loves being with his wife and three children and dog Sadie.
Cycling, cricket, real ale and following Aston Villa are his other vital interests! Mark enjoys meeting prospective students and parents and is always available for tours.