BOARDING SCHOOLS
“In a society where so many of our interactions are now online, the experience of bonding through boarding has the potential to make a world of difference to future success” food and pastoral care that ensures pupils are well cared for, happy and supported. Meanwhile, a sense of belonging binds boarders together and forges unique friendships that are often lifelong. Central to this is the house system. In schools with relatively few boarders, there might be just two houses – one for boys, one for girls. In others, where the majority of pupils board, there can be more houses. They vary in style and location: some new builds and others centuries old; some sat in the heart of the school, just one floor’s remove from teaching areas (no last- minute dashes to get to lessons on time) and others at the far reaches of the site (popular with those wanting a clear delineation between school and ‘home’). Some schools let families express a preference for a particular house. Others manage the allocation process themselves. Either way, pupils usually develop a strong attachment to their boarding community. Schools are experts in bringing each house together and treading a delicate line between house loyalty and rivalry, particularly when it comes to interhouse
36 SPRING/SUMMER 2026
Powered by FlippingBook