Propert | Epsom College

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Propert is named after the founder of Epsom College, Dr John Propert, and was established in 1883 as one of the School’s original Houses, along with Forest, Fayrer, Granville (then Gilchrist), Wilson (then a boys’ boarding House) and Carr.

The House is situated within the main school building, right at the heart of the College. It is on the second floor of the main building and is accessed via the stairs in Main Reception.

Today, Propert is one of the College’s four boys’ day houses. Click on the image to take a guided video tour inside the House.

Alex Buhagiar, Housemaster

I started as Housemaster of Propert in September 2021, having joined Epsom in September 2017 as Head of Physical Education and Head of Activities. Prior to that, I was Head of Year 11, Head of Cricket and a Boarding House Tutor at City of London Freemen’s School.

My aim is to instil the House values of Kindness, Courage and Respect in all the Propert boys.

I am a graduate of the University of Portsmouth, and have recently completed an MA in Education specialising in Educational Leadership and Management with the University of Bath (where I also completed my PGCE in Physical Education).

As you would expect, I’m a passionate all-round sportsman, involved with coaching rugby, football, cricket, and swimming at Epsom. I’m a capable skier and certified Divemaster scuba diver.

Outside of the College, I coach rugby as part of Harlequins RFC Academy, and in recent years have led the Surrey U16 county programme. As well as my love of sport, I have a passion for theatre, travelling and food.

Dawn Bliss, Matron

I have worked at Epsom College since 2017. Initially I worked in one of the boarding houses and I became Matron in Propert House in 2019. I love spending time with the Propert boys every day and chatting about their lives – the House has a lovely friendly, welcoming feel to it, we are like one big family!

I have three grown-up children and spend a lot of time with my granddaughter, Winter; she is two and already very good at ballet! I love reading and walking our beagle, Lotty, and recently I started baking cakes – lemon drizzle is now a family favourite!

Stefano Di Rico, Head of House 2023-24

I have been in Propert since joining the College in M4 (Year 9). The House prides itself on our inclusive nature, ensuring that each student feels represented and where they can have meaningful conversations with all other members of the house.

I study Spanish, History, English Literature, and I have also undertaken an EPQ, with the intention to read International Relations with Spanish at university. Outside of the classroom, I am a member of the Chapel Choir, as well as a variety of music ensembles including Big Band and Funk Band. I am also a keen tennis player.

I take part in the College’s Peer Mentoring programme participating in numerous events, as well as helping with the wellbeing provision at Epsom. I am also a member of YoungMinds’ Activist programme, contributing to the charity’s endeavours to improve the nation’s mental health support for young people.