About the House
Whitelaw House sits in grounds at the heart of the School, and as one of the oldest and most distinguished boarding houses, it’s history is intertwined with the School. The recent 18-month refurbishment has sensitively preserved the charm and character of the House, whilst delivering sector-leading boarding facilities for the boys.
The House features a large quad for sporting fun, a well-equipped gym, 2 communal study rooms, 5 common rooms, 3 kitchens, a music practice room, and a beautiful wooden panelled dining room, where we sit together 3 times a day to eat as a House.
Whitelaw is renowned for its welcoming and friendly atmosphere, embracing boys with diverse interests and talents, whether academic, sporting, musical, or artistic. Our ethos invites boys to make a commitment to themselves, their peers, their House, and their school, encouraging them to challenge themselves, explore opportunities, and give their all.
Ashley Ellis, Housemaster
Ashley Ellis read Physics at the University of Nottingham and then completed a PGCE and Masters in Education at the University of Cambridge. His teaching career began with the founding of a private tuition company, a role which he continued until the end of his degree.
Ashley joined Whitelaw in September 2023 following three years as Deputy Housemaster in School House and a year as Resident Tutor in Michell.
Ashley is heavily involved in the co-curricular programme, coaching soccer, rugby football and squash. Alongside sport, Ashley helps lead the Army Section of the CCF, supports the Duke of Edinburgh’s expedition programme, and for those students interested in studying for a GCSE in Astronomy, Ashley facilitates this off timetable.
Above all, Ashley enjoys being around the House, and making sure the boys in Whitelaw make their most of their time at Rugby School.
When term ends, Ashley enjoys an adventure, with recent enjoyable trips including swimming in Lake Bled, Kayaking around remote Swedish islands, and trekking around the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal.