College Guide

Peterhouse

Peterhouse is the smallest college with roughly 70-80 students in a year, so you get to meet people not only from your year but throughout the college. Peterhouse is the oldest Cambridge college, having been founded in 1284. We have a beautiful Deer park to relax and study, and we often have welfare sessions with the Chaplain's cat (Rory) in one of our (many) green spaces!

Introducing your JCR Access Officer

Ritika Singhal

Hi! I'm an international student from India, and I'm studying HSPS student at Peterhouse. I am also the Women & Marginalised Genders' Officer at my college, which involves me ensuring that the college is a representative and inclusive community for everyone!

Key Facts

~80 UG students per year

College size across the uni ranges from 80 - 200 students/year

~£4800 median yearly rent (2022-23)

Median rent ranges from £4100 - £7100 across the uni, including mandatory catering charges. Note this is a rough guide only, and there will be cheaper options as well

Free gym

Music practice room

No inclusive prayer space :(

Vegetarian, Vegan meals available daily

Gender expression fund available

A fund to reimburse students for items that make them more comfortable with their gender presentation, including but not limited to binders, packers, and concealing underwear

Good accessible accomodation

Q&As

What is your favourite thing about Peterhouse?

Ritika

Definitely, the people – Peterhouse is the smallest college, which makes it easier to get to know everyone and feel that you are part of a community!

Describe your first year accommdation.

Ritika

First-years live in one of two places. St. Peter's Terrace, which is a row of 7 houses right next to the Department of Engineering, and William Stone building, which is a more modern building comprising all en-suites and has students from all years.  Rent varies dramatically, depending on rent bands - but that makes it possible for everyone's needs to be catered to. Kitchens include microwaves, refrigerators, kettles, and toastie makers - no hobs!

What is the food like?

Ritika

We have at least 1 vegan main option at all times, and food quality is quite reasonable. However, prices have gone up, and depending on preferences, a typical meal would cost around 4 to 5 pounds.

Does Peterhouse provide additional funding?

Ritika

Yes! We have funding for lots of different things, including vacation residences, hardship funds, gender expression funds, and travel grants. There are also scholarships available for international students, both partial and fully-funded.

What welfare provision does Peterhouse offer?

Ritika

We have an (incredible) mental health advisor who we can have one-on-one sessions with. The same applies to the college nurse who can be contacted for any health-related matters (physical and mental).   You can also reach to the Chaplain/Welfare Officer and JCR welfare officers if you need someone to talk to, and these people also organise a bunch of welfare events throughout the year - arts and crafts sessions, fudge and smoothies, etc.

What are the facilities like at Peterhouse?

Ritika

Students have the option of opting out of the room ballot for medical and pastoral reasons by contacting their tutors during the Easter term. They can then choose their rooms before the room ballot takes place.   Wheelchair-accessible rooms are located in the William Stone building, which also has a lift. Otherwise, most college accommodation is not step-free.   The Friend's of Peterhouse Theatre is often used for music concerts and talks, and for the annual fresher's play.

What would you change about Peterhouse?

Ritika

Sometimes, college procedures and rules can feel too bureaucratic, and it may be hard to get things done.

Other Resources

 JCR website (Undergrad community)

 College website

Get in touch

@YourCambridgeSU

@YourCambridgeSU

@YourCambridgeSU

caredig.aptomos@cambridgesu.co.uk

Cambridge SU

Charity No. 1189287

3rd Floor, University Centre

Granta Pl, Mill Lane

Cambridge, CB2 1RU

0808 1641 222

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