Unlocking the Benefits: Real Talk about Boarding School
Boarding school experiences are hard to match! From the community to the extracurricular activities, boarding schools offer unique educational experiences you just can’t find anywhere else. It’s true that boarding schools aren’t the best fit for every student, and it’s important to understand as much of “the good, the bad and the ugly” as possible! We believe there is much more good than anything, and that many students excel both in and out of the classroom when they transition to a boarding school. Here’s what we want you to know in the hopes that you’ll explore boarding schools as an educational option for your student.
Excellent Education
One of the reasons boarding schools stick out for many families are their outstanding academics. Compared to public schools, boarding schools are where you’ll find smaller courses that foster close relationships between teachers and students.
Many boarding schools also place a lot of emphasis on holistic learning. This means they focus on building students who will thrive once they graduate. Students are expected to take responsibility for their learning, both in and out of the classroom, which fosters independence as students age up. It’s at schools like these that students leave with well-rounded skill sets which help shape their future.
But let’s talk about the truth! Many boarding schools have high academic standards and expectations for their students. This can be a challenge for some students who may struggle to keep up with the demanding coursework at some schools. Understanding the “pressure cooker” factor at each school is important as not all boarding schools are intense and demanding! Every school has its own size, personality and overall differentiators and we love matching students to their “right fit” boarding school options!
Strict Rules and Regulations
Yes! Boarding schools often have strict rules and regulations regarding everything from dress codes to curfews to even where students are allowed to be for evening study hall. There are lots of other rules too, such as where and when students are allowed access to phones, when students can leave campus and even requirements for “work jobs” or community service on some campuses. While these rules are designed to maintain order and safety, some students may find them overly restrictive and frustrating. For other students, they provide wonderful structure, and a sense of safety, security and belonging. In addition, it levels the playing field for all students, as the norms and expectations are usually the same for all students.
Extracurricular Opportunities
Another advantage of boarding schools is the extracurricular opportunities they offer. At schools where there are a variety of unique opportunities, each and every student can find a place of their own. It’s within these opportunities that students can explore their interest in a new sport, skill, or further one of their passions.
The good news is that the opportunities for growth and development at boarding schools are real and immense! There are vast and unique opportunities for students to develop new skills, pursue their interests, and explore new ideas. The extracurricular activities, specialized courses, and leadership development programs are wonderful but the “bad” news is that most students often can’t try everything they want to, because there is SO much to experience! Yet how invigorating it is for a student to take charge of their own interests and community experiences….the world is their oyster!
Unmatched Community
Boarding school is truly an opportunity for your student to immerse themselves in a community where they are likely to make lifelong friends. We like to refer to it as the opportunity for students to “find their tribe.” Some boarding schools are known for their traditions and culture. It’s in this community setting that your student gets to be part of something larger than themselves. The sense of community your student finds at boarding school can also provide additional motivation during their course of study.
The tight-knit communities that boarding schools provide is part of what makes boarding school so wonderful! A student will make life-long friends and memories to last a lifetime! For some, the downside to such a tight-knit community and living in close proximity to others is that it may feel overwhelming or suffocating. Fortunately, students can retreat to their rooms or quiet spaces on campus to grab some quiet time and recharge too!
As I write this, I’ve just returned from visiting five boarding schools over two days and at each school, I posed this question to each of my student tour guides, “What will you miss most about this school when you graduate?” Fact: Every single student responded that they will miss their friends, their teachers and the community at their boarding school!
Grow on Their Own
Boarding schools are one of the best places for your student to grow their independence away from home. In a safe environment where they are pushed to be their best selves both in and out of the classroom, your student will be set up for a successful future.
It’s at boarding schools where students are faced with the responsibility of managing their time, work, self-care, and relationships. This can be a challenge for many students at first, but after the adjustment period, your student will be taking critical steps towards creating healthy and life-long habits.
We have to admit that boarding schools are not the right fit for every student—perhaps a good topic for an upcoming article? It takes an expert evaluation that an Educational Consultant can provide to help you and your family determine if a boarding school setting is best for your student.
If you’re considering boarding school for your student, we’re here to get to know your family and student, and help you make informed decisions about the next step of their educational journey.
We’re curious: if you attended a boarding school, what were the benefits you experienced? We’d love a reply so you can let us know!