Boarding: A life-changing education experience

Attending boarding school is a transformative experience and sending your child to board is a huge decision. As there are many factors — for both parents and students — to consider before they start, use our helpful checklist to make the choice easier.

Boarding Facilities

• Do I think that my child be comfortable living in the boarding facilities?
• Does the level of supervision meet my expectations?
• Does the boarding house offer sufficient support services for my child, such as tutors, medical care and counsellors, etc.?
• If my child has a problem or concern, is there somebody for them to talk to?
• In the boarding houses, do boarders have access to technology, including computers and the internet?
• Do the boarding houses monitor internet access?
• Does the homework/study policy and supervision meet my child’s needs?
• Do weekend leave arrangements meet our requirements?
• Do schools offer adequate recreation programs on weekends and after hours?
• Do I understand and agree with the pocket money policy?
• Will this meet all of my child’s dietary requirements?
• Is a peer support program available for new boarders?

Parental Communication and Involvement

• Do I find the boarding house’s communication with students and parents satisfactory?
• Am I comfortable with the level of contact with my child?
• Will my child have access to a mobile phone so that we can contact each other?
• Do schools provide opportunities for parents to get involved?

School Location and Access

• Is the school close to public transport to enable access to sporting activities and other outings?
• Is the school easily accessible for us to visit as a family?
• Are there other nearby facilities that the school uses for after-school and weekend outings?

School Policies and Values

• Do the school’s values align with those of my family?
• Am I happy with the size of the school and its boarding and class numbers?
• Does the school’s religious affiliation match my family’s beliefs?
• Does the school offer an anti-bullying policy or other programs to ensure that my child is safe?
• Does the boarding school have a policy on accessing social media?
• Do I find the disciplinary code satisfactory?
• Does the boarding program have structures and policies in place to allow them to provide a caring and nurturing environment for my child?