What is Formal Hall?
Formal Hall is a three-course candlelight meal where we come together as a St Catherine’s family and a Community of Scholars. The tradition hails from the foundation of the European universities in the 12th century, and no matter who we are or where we come from, we share in this great tradition. The gowns signify our equality, shared endeavour to push the boundaries of knowledge, and our courageous pursuit of the truth.
Why the High Table?
The High Table dates back to traditions established at Oxford University and Cambridge University. Traditionally, VIPs and professors sat at the High Table, and students sat below them in the hall. This reinforced a hierarchy between scholars and students in a culture where everyone had their place and class.
At St Catherine's, we have a strong focus on equity of access, and we have built upon tradition established at universities like Princeton to move towards a society breaking away from the restrictions of the past. In this tradition, we recognise we are, first and foremost, a community of scholars and are all learning from each other. We eat together as senior and junior colleagues, as equals in our love of learning and desire to make a positive difference in our world. We respectively engage with each other, our knowledge and ideas. Sharing a meal to nourish the body and mind and reinforce the values that bind us is genuinely ancient and familiar to all cultures.
Who sits at the High Table?
Our High Table signifies the heart of our community and our democratic values. The CEO (Master/Warden), Head of College or their senior staff delegate presides as the symbolic head of our community; residents and guests are then selected to represent our whole community. High Table brings together students, staff, faculty and distinguished guests. The idea is not to separate our community but to provide another opportunity to bring us together.
Residents are selected to represent different stages of study, other interests, to celebrate outstanding achievements, or because they are connected to the theme of the dinner, or we think they would benefit from sitting with a particular guest at the table. And if you have a burning desire to join us up there, let the team know!
PS, it isn't scary. Just a good chat with staff and other guests over pre-dinner drinks and dinner!
Why do we say Grace?
We have so much to be grateful for at St Cat's, and whilst we are not a religious foundation and proudly welcome students of all faiths and none, we like to give thanks for the things that make our lives richer. We join hands as a symbol of our unity and the diversity of thought and culture that enriches our world.
Why do we do an Acknowledgment of Country?
An Acknowledgement of Country is a formal statement or personal reflection that shows awareness of and respect for the Traditional Custodians of the land you live on and their long and continuing relationship with the land. Unlike a Welcome to Country, it can be delivered by anyone – Indigenous or non-Indigenous.
What else do I need to know?
The dress code is smart (no sneakers, thongs or shorts).
The food is amazing. Think three-course meal.
Each Formal Hall has a different theme, and we invite guest speakers who are relevant to the selected topic.
Formal Halls are compulsory for residents in their first year of tertiary education, and all other residents are welcome.