Hillside is a senior boarding house of 53 boys. The Housemaster, Charlie Sykes, is supported by a team of six tutors and a resident tutor and Matron, Sandie Ankers.

Hillside is a community in which all members have a sense of belonging. We encourage the boys to be ambitious in their approach to all areas of college life, in order for them to thrive as individuals, and as a collective.

Charlie Sykes

Charlie was born in Scotland where he spent his early years, returning later to read a liberal arts degree at the University of Edinburgh.

During his early career in London, Charlie gained experience in both the insurance sector and a fast-growing removals business. Motivated by a desire to return to Scotland, he completed an MBA, again at Edinburgh and joined ING Bank, later founding a landscaping business. Despite success in the commercial world, Charlie sought deeper fulfilment, leading him to complete his PGCE at St Martins and began his teaching career at the Oratory School.

Since joining Bradfield College in 2016 he has become a valued member of the economics department teaching both A level and IB. He has served as a tutor for pupils in both boys’ and girls’ houses, acted as house UCAS coordinator, and contributed enthusiastically to the school’s vibrant co-curricular life-including coaching hockey and tennis, supporting the CCF and Duke of Edinburgh programmes, and leading clay pigeon shooting.

Charlie has also held significant pastoral roles, serving as Deputy Housemaster in Stone House and, most recently, in Armstrong House. He is a passionate advocate for a well-rounded school experience, encouraging pupils to pursue diverse interests beyond the classroom. Above all Charlie is guided by the values of kindness, humility, integrity, and team spirit, which he strives to instil in those around him.

Being an ardent Scotland rugby supporter, Charlie assists when time permits, the coaching team for the Scottish Qualified Programme, the pathway for future Scotland players. Charlie also enjoys a challenge, completing the Marathon des Sables as well as a number of Haute Route Pyrenees and Alps cycling events. His latest challenge will start in September when he begins his part time PhD in Sports Economics at the University of Reading.

Charlie is married to Emma who runs her own business, and they have two grown up sons.

“The House prides itself on fostering an open and friendly ethos where everyone’s efforts are celebrated and the boys feel safe to step outside their comfort zone, taking well-considered risks. We want the boys to leave the College as respectful, resilient and open-minded individuals, well-prepared and confident in their ability to handle the unpredictable challenges that life beyond Bradfield will throw at them. Above all, we want boys to do the right thing, especially when no-one is watching.”

Hillside contact details
AddressHillside, Bradfield College, Bradfield, Berkshire, RG7 6BD
Telephone0118 964 4640
Matron tel0118 964 4643
Emailhillside@bradfieldcollege.org.uk