Discover the art of watercolour painting and explore the unique beauty of this luminous medium. Watercolour is prized for its transparency, allowing light to pass through the paint and reflect off the white paper beneath, creating a distinctive glowing effect.

You'll learn essential techniques including wet-in-wet, washes, and layering, before progressing to create a variety of finished paintings. Throughout the club, you'll develop your skills and confidence, building from foundational methods to more complex compositions.

This club is perfect for those who enjoy painting and want to master a new medium, as well as students looking to strengthen their art portfolio.

Led by professional sculptor Diana Pattenden, this ceramics course introduces students to the versatile world of clay. You'll learn essential sculpting techniques, hand-building methods for creating pots and vessels, and how to apply glazes and textures to bring your designs to life.

Clay offers endless possibilities for creative expression, allowing you to transform imaginative ideas into three-dimensional forms. Through hands-on experience with specialist tools and techniques, you'll develop practical skills, creative problem-solving abilities, and confidence in your artistic voice.

This club is ideal for students who enjoy working with their hands, those interested in exploring 3D art forms, and anyone looking to add ceramics experience to their creative portfolio.

Unleash your creative potential through the dynamic world of oil painting and contemporary drawing. This immersive club offers a hands-on journey into modern visual expression, bridging the gap between bold sketchwork and rich, textured painting.

Guided through advanced practices, you will experiment with impasto, subtle glazing, scumbling, and complex surface layering using modern, water-soluble oils on canvas. From preliminary observational studies to expansive contemporary compositions, you will explore innovative mark-making, spatial dynamics, and sophisticated colour interactions.

Designed for dedicated young artists, this session will challenge you to take risks, refine your personal aesthetic, and produce striking artwork that makes a standout addition to any creative portfolio.

Step into Abstract Expressions—widely loved as the most relaxed and liberating art class in the school! Designed as a sanctuary for creativity and wellbeing, this workshop offers zero pressure, no rigid rules, and absolute freedom to explore your imagination.

Under the guidance of a professional artist, anything goes. Whether you want to experiment with mixed media, dive into intuitive painting, or try out bold new concepts, you are free to create whatever inspires you.

Last term, our young artists:

• Experimented with vibrant glow-in-the-dark paints and neon effects

• Constructed whimsical, painted floating islands

• Explored the deep relationship between colour theory and music

• Designed and illustrated their own custom comic books

• Poured, splattered, and sculpted with unconventional tools and textures

Whether you want to unwind after a busy school day, boost your mental well-being, or simply let loose with new materials, Abstract Expressions is the ultimate space to play, experiment, and express yourself without boundaries.

Bespoke Studio Guidance for Young Artists

Help your child unlock their full creative potential with Individual Artistic Mentorship—a tailored 1-to-1 session designed for pupils who want to explore their talent beyond the standard classroom curriculum.

While group scholarship classes offer fantastic foundation training, this private mentorship provides dedicated, one-on-one attention focused entirely on your child’s unique passions. Whether they want to master a challenging medium, build an exceptional portfolio for senior school art scholarships, or bring a major creative project to life, every session is built around their personal ambitions.

What to Expect:

• Real Studio Mentorship: Learning directly from a practicing artist, pupils get an authentic look into real studio life—learning how to think, experiment, and refine their ideas like a true fine artist.

• Targeted 1-to-1 Guidance: Intensive, supportive feedback tailored specifically to your child’s pace and style, offering the kind of focused coaching that accelerates confidence and technical skill.

• Senior School & Portfolio Support: Ideal preparation for pupils aiming for Art Scholarships at 11+ or 13+, or for any pupil looking to create a portfolio of exceptional quality.

• Creative Freedom & Precision: Complete flexibility across drawing, painting, and 3D work to help pupils push their imaginative boundaries and develop a distinctive creative voice.

This mentorship is perfect for enthusiastic Brockhurst and Marlston pupils who want to elevate their craft, build deep artistic confidence, and experience the joy of one-on-one creative guidance.

Art Scholarship Programme

An Exclusive, Invite-only Pathway for Outstanding Young Artists

The Art Scholarship Programme offers exceptional young artists at Brockhurst and Marlston House a dedicated, high-level pathway designed to nurture talent, build deep artistic maturity, and craft outstanding portfolios for senior school scholarship entry (11+ and 13+).

Under the direct guidance of practicing artist Richard Bellin, scholars are given access to structured mentorship, foundational skill-building, and specialised studio time to help them discover their own visual identity.

Core Pillars of the Programme

• Dedicated Weekly Studio Sessions: Scholars engage in core weekly contact time, including focused observational drawing, refined painting techniques, and targeted portfolio assembly to compile strong, diverse bodies of work.
• Specialisation & Individualism: Scholars demonstrate commitment by tailoring their path—choosing extra-curricular disciplines (such as Watercolours, Oil & Contemporary Painting, Abstract Expressions, or Ceramics) to build a unique artistic voice.
• Immersive Weekend Workshops: Intensive, deep-dive workshops—such as dedicated oil painting masterclasses—allow pupils to tackle ambitious, large-scale projects beyond standard lesson time.
• Senior School Portfolio Curation: Tailored preparation focused on meeting the precise scholarship criteria of top-tier senior schools, ensuring every candidate presents a distinctive, professional-standard collection for their assessments.

Expectation & Commitment

Selection for the Art Scholarship Programme is a mark of high distinction. To support their acceleration, scholars are expected to:

1. Select at least one extra art activity per week to cultivate individual flair and diversity in their portfolio.
2. Attend scheduled weekend masterclasses to explore complex media and techniques.
3. Maintain active home sketchbooks and engage with independent visual culture—visiting galleries, design exhibitions, and artistic venues to record reflections, studies, and personal inspiration.

Admission to the Art Scholarship Programme is by invitation.

Classical Ballet

Classical ballet forms the foundation for all dance styles, and we are delighted to offer syllabus classes in the Cecchetti Method of Classical Ballet at Brockhurst & Marlston House Schools.

Class Structure

Classes are organised predominantly by year group, with adjustments made based on individual ability where appropriate. Nursery and Reception pupils are introduced to ballet through creative, exploratory classes, while a more structured syllabus begins from Form 8 (Year 1) onwards.

Performance and Examinations

We operate on a bi-annual cycle, alternating between performance years and examination years. During exam years, dancers are prepared for ISTD Class or Medel examinations as appropriate. Whilst examinations are not compulsory, all students are encouraged to work towards them. In performance years, all dancers are invited to participate in our summer term ballet production.

Teaching Expertise

I hold a Licentiate (Advanced) teaching qualification in the Cecchetti Method, a training system renowned for developing strong classical technique. I am passionate about this approach and believe it provides young dancers with an excellent technical foundation.

For pupils with a particular passion for ballet I am happy to discuss private tuition and/or suggest Associate programmes for further development. Private lessons can also be arranged to support dance scholarships for senior school entry.

Recent Success

Over recent years, pupils have successfully auditioned for prestigious vocational schools and programmes including:

• White Lodge, The Royal Ballet School
• Tring Park School for the Performing Arts
• The Hammond
• Legat School of Dance
• Royal Ballet Associate Programme
• Cecchetti Scholarship Programme
• Cecchetti Associate Scheme

The Speech and Drama (LAMDA) courses held at Brockhurst and Marlston House Schools are based on developing and enhancing three essential life skills:  Communication, Confidence and Creativity. From Form 7 onwards pupils can follow courses which have the LAMDA examination curriculum at their core.

As one of the World's most respected and established performing arts institutions, London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) has been developing confident communicators and performers for over 160 years. LAMDA follows a carefully structured curriculum that enables pupils to build skills progressively, develop measurable outcomes and work towards nationally and internationally recognised qualifications.

Through regular lessons and examinations held conveniently at school, pupils gain confidence, resilience, creativity and the ability to communicate effectively in a wide range of situations. The qualifications are highly regarded by schools, universities and employers, with higher-level examinations attracting UCAS points. Whether a child aspires to perform on stage, excel in interviews, lead presentations or simply become a more confident and articulate individual, LAMDA provides a strong foundation for future success.

LAMDA lessons take place weekly and the examinations are scheduled during the Summer Term.  Pupils can join LAMDA at any stage from Form 7 (Year 2) upwards. Pupils will be graded according to age and ability when they begin the course.  There is no limit to how many courses a child can take and there is also the opportunity to move from one course to another.

The schedule for classes and fees will be published as part of the Activity Options Schedule. Some of the classes will reach capacity quickly so it is advisable to join via SOCS or contact myself or Stuart Raeburn-Ward as soon as possible if you would like to register your child. There is flexibility within the LAMDA schedule so please contact me if current timings do not work for you and I will endeavour to find an alternative option where possible.

Introductory LAMDA (Year 2) (Form 7)

The Introductory LAMDA programme provides the perfect first step into the world of communication and performance. Through poetry, show and tell, imaginative games and creative activities, pupils develop confidence in speaking aloud, listening carefully, memorising lines and expressing themselves clearly. The emphasis is on enjoyment, participation and building self-belief in a supportive environment.

At this crucial stage, children learn to use their voices effectively, develop concentration and strengthen social skills. These early experiences help establish the confidence and communication skills that will support them throughout their school life and beyond.

Speaking Verse & Prose (Years 3–8) Forms 1 – 6

Speaking Verse and Prose develops the art of confident and expressive communication through the performance of poetry and prose. Pupils learn how to interpret texts, engage an audience and communicate meaning through vocal expression, pace and presence.

Alongside developing performance skills, pupils build literacy, comprehension and critical thinking as they explore a wide variety of literary works. The ability to speak clearly, confidently and with conviction is a valuable life skill, helping pupils in classroom discussions, presentations, interviews and public speaking situations. Many parents are delighted to see their children grow in confidence and develop a genuine appreciation for language and literature.

Background – Heidi Craig BA Hons (English & Drama)

I have been teaching Drama for 17 years and LAMDA for 14 years. My son and daughter both attended the school so I have been a parent and teacher at Brockhurst and Marlston House Schools for over 25 years. My career before teaching was in book publishing, consumer and trade public relations and media and presentation training.  Over the years I have witnessed how LAMDA has really helped children with the three C’s (Communication, Confidence and Creativity) and I am delighted to say that the excellent results pupils have achieved and the positive response I have had from current and past pupils has been overwhelming.

The Speech and Drama (LAMDA) courses held at Brockhurst and Marlston House Schools are based on developing and enhancing three essential life skills:  Communication, Confidence and Creativity. From Form 7 onwards pupils can follow courses which have the LAMDA examination curriculum at their core.

As one of the World's most respected and established performing arts institutions, London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) has been developing confident communicators and performers for over 160 years. LAMDA follows a carefully structured curriculum that enables pupils to build skills progressively, develop measurable outcomes and work towards nationally and internationally recognised qualifications.

Through regular lessons and examinations held conveniently at school, pupils gain confidence, resilience, creativity and the ability to communicate effectively in a wide range of situations. The qualifications are highly regarded by schools, universities and employers, with higher-level examinations attracting UCAS points. Whether a child aspires to perform on stage, excel in interviews, lead presentations or simply become a more confident and articulate individual, LAMDA provides a strong foundation for future success.

LAMDA lessons take place weekly and the examinations are scheduled during the Summer Term.  Pupils can join LAMDA at any stage from Form 7 (Year 2) upwards. Pupils will be graded according to age and ability when they begin the course.  There is no limit to how many courses a child can take and there is also the opportunity to move from one course to another.

The schedule for classes and fees will be published as part of the Activity Options Schedule. Some of the classes will reach capacity quickly so it is advisable to join via SOCS or contact myself or Stuart Raeburn-Ward as soon as possible if you would like to register your child. There is flexibility within the LAMDA schedule so please contact me if current timings do not work for you and I will endeavour to find an alternative option where possible.

Acting (Years 3–8) Forms 1-6

LAMDA Acting encourages creativity, imagination and emotional intelligence while providing pupils with a structured framework for developing performance skills. Through carefully selected scenes and character work, pupils learn how to analyse scripts, understand motivation and create believable performances.

Beyond the stage, acting develops empathy, teamwork, problem-solving and self-confidence. Pupils learn to take risks, trust their ideas and present themselves with assurance. The structured LAMDA syllabus ensures that each child progresses at an appropriate pace while working towards recognised qualifications that celebrate their achievements.

Background – Heidi Craig BA Hons (English & Drama)

I have been teaching Drama for 17 years and LAMDA for 14 years. My son and daughter both attended the school so I have been a parent and teacher at Brockhurst and Marlston House Schools for over 25 years. My career before teaching was in book publishing, consumer and trade public relations and media and presentation training.  Over the years I have witnessed how LAMDA has really helped children with the three C’s (Communication, Confidence and Creativity) and I am delighted to say that the excellent results pupils have achieved and the positive response I have had from current and past pupils has been overwhelming.

The Speech and Drama (LAMDA) courses held at Brockhurst and Marlston House Schools are based on developing and enhancing three essential life skills:  Communication, Confidence and Creativity. From Form 7 onwards pupils can follow courses which have the LAMDA examination curriculum at their core.

As one of the World's most respected and established performing arts institutions, London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) has been developing confident communicators and performers for over 160 years. LAMDA follows a carefully structured curriculum that enables pupils to build skills progressively, develop measurable outcomes and work towards nationally and internationally recognised qualifications.

Through regular lessons and examinations held conveniently at school, pupils gain confidence, resilience, creativity and the ability to communicate effectively in a wide range of situations. The qualifications are highly regarded by schools, universities and employers, with higher-level examinations attracting UCAS points. Whether a child aspires to perform on stage, excel in interviews, lead presentations or simply become a more confident and articulate individual, LAMDA provides a strong foundation for future success.

LAMDA lessons take place weekly and the examinations are scheduled during the Summer Term.  Pupils can join LAMDA at any stage from Form 7 (Year 2) upwards. Pupils will be graded according to age and ability when they begin the course.  There is no limit to how many courses a child can take and there is also the opportunity to move from one course to another.

The schedule for classes and fees will be published as part of the Activity Options Schedule. Some of the classes will reach capacity quickly so it is advisable to join via SOCS or contact myself or Stuart Raeburn-Ward as soon as possible if you would like to register your child. There is flexibility within the LAMDA schedule so please contact me if current timings do not work for you and I will endeavour to find an alternative option where possible.

Speaking in Public (Years 5–8) Forms 1-4

In an increasingly competitive world, the ability to communicate ideas clearly and confidently is one of the most valuable skills a young person can possess. Speaking in Public equips pupils with the confidence to present, persuade and engage an audience with clarity and authority.

Pupils learn how to structure speeches, present arguments, think critically and respond confidently to questions. These transferable skills support academic success across all subjects and prepare pupils for future interviews, leadership opportunities and professional environments. For many children, this qualification becomes one of the most practical and beneficial aspects of their wider education, giving them a significant advantage both in school and later life.

Background – Heidi Craig BA Hons (English & Drama)

I have been teaching Drama for 17 years and LAMDA for 14 years. My son and daughter both attended the school so I have been a parent and teacher at Brockhurst and Marlston House Schools for over 25 years. My career before teaching was in book publishing, consumer and trade public relations and media and presentation training.  Over the years I have witnessed how LAMDA has really helped children with the three C’s (Communication, Confidence and Creativity) and I am delighted to say that the excellent results pupils have achieved and the positive response I have had from current and past pupils has been overwhelming.

Street Dance is a high-energy class that introduces pupils to the exciting world of urban dance styles. Lessons cover fundamental techniques including popping and locking, alongside dynamic tricks and breakdancing elements, all whilst having fun.

Pupils learn choreographed routines set to popular music, working towards performances at the end of each term. Throughout the club, we place strong emphasis on teamwork, group interaction, and building confidence through movement and self-expression.

This club is perfect for pupils who enjoy energetic, contemporary dance styles and want to develop their coordination, rhythm, and performance skills in a fun, supportive environment.

In addition to Street Dance for our older pupils, we are delighted to offer Groovy Movers, a music and movement class designed especially for our nursery pupils.

This lively session includes warm-up activities, nursery rhyme songs, props, and rhythm work, alongside opportunities to explore vocabulary, colours, and musical instruments. With lots of music throughout, children are encouraged to move, sing, and play in a fun and stimulating environment.

The class supports the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, helping children develop key skills in communication and language, physical development, and personal, social and emotional development.

This club is perfect for our youngest pupils to build confidence, coordination, and a love of music through playful, sensory-rich activities.

Where confidence takes centre stage.

Imagination Station is a lively after-school drama club that inspires children to build confidence, develop communication skills and unleash their creativity through drama.

Using engaging games, improvisation, character work and storytelling, pupils learn to express themselves, work as part of a team and grow in self-belief - all while having great fun. 

Each year culminates in a small performance, giving every child the opportunity to celebrate their progress and enjoy the magic of theatre.

No previous drama experience is needed - just enthusiasm, imagination and a willingness to have a go!

Creative Media is an exciting and challenging club that introduces pupils to the diverse world of digital media production. Students will explore how various elements and disciplines combine to create contemporary digital content.

Through hands-on projects, pupils will develop technical skills and creative thinking, learning how different media formats work together to communicate ideas effectively. This club provides a broad foundation in digital media, encouraging experimentation and innovation across multiple platforms.

This club is ideal for pupils interested in the intersection of technology and creativity, those considering media-related subjects for their future studies, or anyone who enjoys working with digital tools to bring their ideas to life.

Robotics offers pupils hands-on learning experiences that bring together technology, science, maths, and engineering skills in an exciting and practical way. Pupils enjoy building robots by snapping together components, then adapting and customising their creations with additional features, including simple machines.

Our robotics kit, with over 800 components, takes educational robotics to the next level. Using a familiar handheld controller, pupils follow clear instructions to build their first robot with confidence. The wide variety of additional parts also allows teams of pupils to collaborate on bigger, stronger, and more functional robotic creations.

This club is ideal for pupils who enjoy problem-solving, hands-on building, and working collaboratively to design and construct increasingly sophisticated robots.

The art of model building is about far more than planning, cutting, sanding, gluing, painting, and detailing. It's a wonderfully sociable activity that challenges pupils whilst providing a genuine sense of achievement as their creations take shape.

In Model Building Club, pupils choose their own kit to construct and paint, developing patience, precision, and creativity along the way. The cost per term includes the purchase of models, paint, and glue.

This club is perfect for pupils who enjoy hands-on, detailed work and take satisfaction in seeing a project through from start to finish.

My name is James Roberts and I am the Fencing Master at Brockhurst and Marlston House Schools, coaching here since September 2012. Alongside my work at the school, I am proud to serve as Head Coach for the Region's Development Days and joint Head Coach of the region's most prolific Epee club. I currently coach Cadet National Squad fencers, as well as several reigning Regional and County Champions.

Weapons and Achievements

At school, we focus primarily on Foil, whilst also offering Sabre and Epee for those wishing to explore different weapons. Our fencers have achieved excellent results at County, Regional, and National events, with many actively involved in clubs and competitions beyond school, including regional training days. As a school, we also send fencers to compete at the IAPS competition, a fantastic experience thoroughly enjoyed by all who attend.

Training Sessions

Fencers can expect challenging sessions with plenty of fun along the way. Junior sessions focus on developmental games and technical lessons, whilst senior sessions introduce greater conditioning alongside tactical, as well as technical, training.

I aim to give every fencer a 1-to-1 lesson every other week, with sessions often including sparring practice.

I very much look forward to welcoming you to your first fencing session.

My name is Daniel Wakerley, and I am Head Coach of the Gymnastics Club at Brockhurst and Marlston House School. Outside of coaching at the school, I work with local gymnastics clubs, coaching gymnasts who compete at national level. I am fortunate to be mentored by, and work alongside, coaches who took gymnasts to the 2021 Olympics, where Team GB was awarded the team bronze medal. I am also part of the Berkshire County Squad coaching team.

Our Sessions

Sessions begin with a warm-up and physical preparation to improve strength and flexibility, before progressing to apparatus work including tumbling, bars, beam, and vault. In tumbling, pupils start with the fundamentals of gymnastics, spending time on rolls, handstands, and cartwheels to build a strong skill foundation before progressing to somersaults and linked gymnastics elements. Work on bars and beam develops upper body strength, balance, and coordination, whilst introducing exciting new skills on the apparatus. We hope in future to take part in gymnastics competitions against other local schools.

I look forward to welcoming you along to a gymnastics session.

Hi5 Tennis is a new and exciting introduction to tennis, gently designed for children aged 3 to 5. Through fun, engaging activities, children develop fundamental skills in balance, coordination, agility, movement, and racket and ball control.

We are very fortunate to have the coaching services of both Joshua Lawson and Mark Bradley, who are passionate about the game and work hard to help players improve and achieve their best. Most importantly, they help pupils enjoy tennis in a supportive and encouraging environment.

Our excellent facilities include three outdoor courts and one indoor court, allowing tennis to be played and enjoyed throughout the year.

We are fortunate to have access to excellent mountain biking trails right on our doorstep. Staff lead rides around our extensive grounds and neighbouring farmland, giving pupils the chance to explore the outdoors whilst developing their cycling skills and confidence.

Pupils wishing to take part will need their own mountain bike in good working order, and a helmet is compulsory for all riders.

Our children's yoga classes are joyful and fun, focusing on thoughtful movement and connection with others. Children embark on imaginative adventures using traditional yoga poses, alongside partner work, laughter, and acroyoga. Many activities encourage mindfulness and inner calm, whilst relaxation sessions introduce the foundations of stillness and meditation.

Yoga helps build body awareness and self-esteem, whilst improving balance, core strength, coordination, and flexibility. By learning to calm both body and mind, children can enhance their memory, concentration, and emotional regulation, supporting reduced stress and anxiety both now and in the future.

Cricket Academy develops fundamental skills including catching, throwing, and batting, with coaching in both soft and hard ball cricket. Through fun ball familiarisation activities and small-sided games, pupils build their understanding of all aspects of the game.

Sessions focus on developing key skills such as batting, throwing, catching, bowling, and running, alongside plenty of movement and activity. Pupils also develop teamwork through fun games, communication through learning the basics of cricket, and an understanding of the spirit of cricket, including how to respect others both on and off the pitch.

A great opportunity for pupils to boost their fitness and develop their knowledge of the sport through small-sided games, with an emphasis on passing, possession, movement, and communication.

The Fly Fishing Club meets on Fridays during the summer term, giving pupils the opportunity to fish the River Pang, as well as the ponds on Marlston Farm, which are stocked with brown and rainbow trout.

Riding is a special feature at Brockhurst and Marlston House. We offer lessons for everyone, from total beginners to pupils who compete regularly.

All our ponies are carefully chosen to suit each child, and some pupils also bring their own ponies to school for the term or for individual lessons. We run additional activities such as termly pony shows, alongside evening and weekend equitation sessions. Children are taught not only how to ride, but also how to care for a pony.

Our outstanding facilities include a stable yard and two all-weather arenas (a 60x30 jumping arena and a 40x20 floodlit arena), along with a full set of show jumps and lovely hacking around the field margins of our farm.

Skilled staff are on hand to support your child every step of the way.

We offer individual music lessons across a wide range of instruments, delivered by our peripatetic teachers:

Cello, Clarinet, Drums, Flute, Guitar (classical and electric), Piano, Saxophone, Singing, Trumpet, Viola, and Violin.

To book lessons, please email Stuart s.raeburn-ward@brockmarl.org

Chess has been described as a wonderful educational tool that strengthens a child's mind. It enhances concentration whilst developing creativity, intuition, and memory, alongside the ability to analyse, make complex decisions, and solve problems flexibly. Chess is exciting and fun to play, and it's a well-known fact that many leading mathematicians began playing chess from an early age.

About Alec

Alec is an English Chess Federation Coach, endorsed by two Grandmasters. His team works across various schools in Berkshire, Surrey, and Hampshire, teaching and coaching chess. Our syllabus covers Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels. Alec also runs a large junior club at Camberley, where three of his juniors currently play for the England team. Visit www.camberleyjuniorchessclub.co.uk for more information.

If your child is starting Chess Club for the first time, it would help us to know their current strength: Beginner, Experienced, or Advanced.

If you have any questions, please email Alec Aslett at a.aslett@brockmarl.org.

This hands-on cookery course gives pupils a thorough basis of knowledge and experience in the kitchen. Working in pairs, we cook a mix of savoury and sweet dishes each of which involves really useful techniques such as making a short crust pastry case for treacle tart, creating a roux based sauce for macaroni cheese, or kneading, rolling and cutting dough for fresh pasta. Working under the guidance of 2011 MasterChef finalist Annie Assheton, pupils learn about ingredients, equipment, nutrition, and safety in the kitchen and each week they take their creations away to enjoy for supper.

Please note that the course involves the handling and cooking of all types of ingredients including meat and fish. Pupils should come with a suitable Tupperware container so they can take their dishes away with them.