EDUCATION
THE BENEFITS OF BOARDING Boarding at specialist schools offers many benefits. The care staff at Newcome Education explain how supportive relationships in a serene setting prepare young learners for adulthood
HOME AND AWAY Consistency in care across academic and residential life helps reduce stress
independence. Regardless of the setting, residential provisions ensure a consistent routine and involvement in regular outdoor activities such as walks and bike rides, which helps students engage more closely with their surroundings. Residential schools focus on preparing learners for the future. Learners are guided through the transition to adulthood with an emphasis on developing life skills. From building independence to achieving nationally recognised qualifications, the supportive environment ensures that learners are well equipped for adulthood. Family connections While boarding can provide a well- structured environment, maintaining family connections is equally important. Schools often adopt a ‘weekends and/or holidays at home’ model, allowing learners to spend quality time with their families. This balance supports sustainable family relationships, ensuring that learners feel supported both at school and at home. It also promotes continuity, creating a steady routine that helps reduce anxiety – vital for young people with additional needs. Safety and predictability are the cornerstones of boarding life. Schools offer a structured routine that helps learners feel secure. The wraparound curriculum integrates academic, social and personal development, ensuring that learners receive complete support. This holistic approach helps learners develop resilience and readiness for learning. Gretton School and Wilds Lodge School are run by Newcome Education. To discover more about the unique benefits of boarding at these specialist schools, visit their websites at grettonschool.com/open-afternoon- information or wildslodgeschool.co.uk/ open-afternoon-tour
B oarding at a specialist school can provide a unique and supportive environment for learners with specific needs. A residential environment can encourage growth and development. For families considering this option, understanding the benefits is crucial to determining the best possible provision for their young person. Residential provision is more than just accommodation at school; when done well, it creates a nurturing community. Learners build lasting relationships, gain independence and grow in confidence. The consistency of care provided by familiar staff across both academic and residential settings reduces anxiety and promotes a sense of belonging. This stable environment is instrumental in helping learners thrive. Building good relationships is at the heart of boarding, as it ensures learners form long-term, trusting connections with a supportive community. This helps build a balanced and diverse network of
relationships and prevents reliance on any one individual for support. The integration of school and residential life means that learners receive consistent support, enhancing their overall wellbeing and reducing the likelihood of school refusal by eliminating the daily commute to an educational setting. Preparing for adulthood A new and different setting from the home environment can offer various benefits – whether providing a peaceful alternative away from urban distractions or a more vibrant, stimulating setting. A connection with nature can offer emotional benefits too, fostering a sense of calmness. Alternatively, being near shops and local amenities can support the development of
Building good relationships is at the heart of boarding , as it ensures learners form trusting connections
CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK FEBRUARY 2025 65
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