I am really looking forward to saying “hi” to you in person soon.  

I have been a Residence Life Warden at “Monty B” for eight years, having worked in several roles at other residences before that. I was also a Residence Life Assistant and Treasurer for the Residence Life Social Committee whilst a student of French and Management at Leeds. I love getting involved in all aspects of university and residence life, and I hope you will too. 

I have had some fantastic personal, social, and professional experiences during my time as a student and alumni of Leeds University. I consider myself lucky to have been able to travel, study, work and play inclusive rugby both here and abroad as a result of my time in Leeds. This has given me the opportunity to meet and make friends from all over the world – a real change from my time growing up in a small village in the East Midlands! 

I am a keen foodie and would be happy to let you know all about my favourite spots. Whether it is an LGBTQ+ coffee shop in town, a sandwich from Bakery 164 (a must try), the best local pizza (depending on if you like Neapolitan, Roma, New York, or Detroit style), or a recommendation for a takeaway from the usual apps, feel free to ask for suggestions when you see me. I also have a favourite ice cream in most places I have visited and always welcome new recommendations. 

So, what does a Residence Life “Warden” actually do? Slightly odd name I know, but the name encompasses the many aspects of the role I love. In short, I am here to help you make the most out of your time at Monty B and at Leeds. I am passionate about the city and the university and I believe all students are here to get a good degree, and more importantly, have a great time doing it. I am here during term time to give you advice if you need it, help you with any issues which may be affecting your wellbeing and, when necessary, I also have to deal with disciplinary matters.  

I am assisted in my role at Montague Burton by a team of four Residence Life Assistants, who are all current students at the University. One RLA is on duty each evening and every weekend during term time, meaning that there is always someone you can call on for support or advice.  

The Duty Residence Life Assistant contact number is 07810 852 154;  please save this number in your phone now (really, do this now so you have it when you need it). 

Day-to-day I work mainly on the university campus so no doubt you will see me around. I have had several roles managing events, operations, and administration during my time at Leeds, and I currently lead a team supporting the central administration and logistics of assessments, exams, marks, and degree classifications. I have a great network of friends and colleagues across the university and have a broad knowledge of support services, which I am always happy to share with you. If you need to contact me, please email MontagueBurtonWarden@leeds.ac.uk, call the Duty Residence Life Assistant, or leave a note for me with the staff in Reception. 

As a student living in halls, you also get an exclusive programme of events delivered by the Residence Life Team and Social Committee. There will be loads of events happening over Freshers and throughout the year which you can join in with. A full calendar of events happening over intake will be printed on the poster in your kitchen as well as posted on the StarRez Portal and social media before you arrive in September. A few to look out for are welcome party, Winter Ball, film nights, annual “Cake Off” competition, and other competitions where you could win dinner for yourself and your flatmates. You will get more information about this in the coming weeks, and I will also share more at our Compulsory Welcome Meeting and Dinner on Thursday 26 September (remember to save the date!) 

Named after the founder of Burton clothing company (fun fact!), Montague Burton is in a great location to take advantage of everything Leeds and the University have to offer. There are so many fantastic facilities here in the common room and we have a great outdoor space to enjoy year-round, all just a short walk from campus and the city centre. I often think Monty B is one of the best-kept secrets among the university’s residences and I love that I get to call this my home too! 

I am really looking forward to meeting you and I hope you have an enjoyable year as a member of our residence and Leeds communities. If there is anything I can help with during your time at Monty B, do feel free to contact me. 

All the best for a fantastic year ahead! 

- Steven Sharpe, Warden for Montague Burton Residences