Why boarding schools build strength of character

Any institution becomes a community - whether it's a high school or a boarding school or a publishing company or a small town where everyone knows certain things about people. - Alice Hoffman

Providing for your child may require you to work in another city or even country. To ensure that your child is in a safe and supportive system, while you're away, you may consider a boarding school.

Boarding school learners often hold warm memories for a lifetime. Residing on school grounds is a different approach to education. It's an immersive experience where learners develop trust, independence, honesty and camaraderie. Boarding Schools present an excellent environment to win, fail and experiment in a safe space. Are you still on the fence on whether you should consider a boarding school for your child?

Here are four reasons why boarding schools build strength of character.

1. Children learn independence

“There's nothing quite like a few chores to encourage responsibility. “ - Author unknown

Boarding school presents an opportunity for children to be responsible for themselves and their actions. In this setup, they learn to take care of themselves by doing chores like their laundry. They learn to be self-motivated and reliant, which builds disciplined young adults. The most beneficial part of boarding school is how it provides freedom within reasonable limits set by the boarding school mentors. Children can test parameters while also being held responsible for their actions.

An experienced House Master and Mistress lead the Pecanwood College boarding school. They provide a warm and comfortable environment, to help teach independence, discipline and build strength of character.

2. Private school is a bridging school to real life

Let’s face it. One day 12 years from now, your sweet-faced child will be starting yet another journey in their life.

The adjustment from high school to college can be smoother with the right preparation. In boarding school, interpersonal skills, self-initiative and leadership are cultivated and nurtured. These qualities are facilitated through a boarding house, safely enclosed within the school grounds. Plus, the option to board on a weekly, monthly or term basis is available to suit you and your child’s needs.

The most challenging part of starting tertiary studies is the change in lifestyle. For many, it means leaving their close network of friends and family and adjusting to new surroundings. On top of all of this, new academic challenges appear. Children who have been through the boarding school system are often more mentally and emotionally prepared for these changes. As part of our mission we are passionate about equipping pupils to emerge as well-balanced, productive individuals, who are “Prepared for Life”.

3. A sense of community

Boarding schools are a diverse environment where children of different backgrounds can meet and interact. They create an opportunity for people of different ages and cultures to bond. They do so not only in a classroom setting but also in dorm rooms and dining halls, creating a brother/sisterhood for life. When a community of your peers surrounds you, coping with the ebb and flow of life is easier.

4. Academic opportunities

Part of the educational journey is creating an environment to facilitate it. Wireless broadband connections and the availability of school amenities for use at all times allow for more study time, giving them a better opportunity to prepare for their future. With an on-site school psychologist and dedicated paramedic, boarders get a different experience from day learners.

The one constant is change. Prepare your child for the future by building fundamental traits to help them navigate life's changes, easier. Pecanwood College is excited to welcome your child to our boarding facilities to learn and grow. Enrol your child today to prepare him/her for life.