Homesickness, phones, weekends and food. The questions parents ask most often when they visit our boarding houses, answered honestly.
Choosing boarding is a big decision for any family. These are the questions we hear most often on visits, and how we answer them.
“Will my child be homesick?”
Some pupils are, especially in the first few weeks, and that is completely normal. Houseparents know the signs and act early. New boarders are given an older “house buddy”, a settling-in plan for their first half term and regular, scheduled time to call home. Most children settle faster than their parents do.
“How often can we be in touch?”
As often as is healthy. Boarders have set times each evening to call or message home, and houseparents send families a short update during the first weeks. If you are ever worried, you can call the boarding house directly.
“What about phones?”
Younger boarders hand in their phones at night and have limited daytime use. Older pupils earn more independence as they move up the school. The aim is not to cut children off from home, but to protect sleep, friendships and concentration.
“What happens at weekends?”
Weekends are full but relaxed. Saturday mornings may include school commitments, then the afternoon and Sunday are given over to trips, sport, activities and proper rest. Weekly and flexi boarders go home; full boarders stay for a programme planned by the boarding team.
“Is the food any good?”
We think so, and pupils are not shy about telling us when it isn’t. Meals are cooked on site, with a choice at every meal and options for every dietary need.
If you have a question that is not here, come and ask it in person. Every visit includes time in a boarding house.