Boarding school gives students the freedom and focus to develop as individuals and thrive, and the benefits of boarding school for both students and parents are wide-ranging.
In this blog, we share how the boarding school experience sets students up for success in their adult life, helping them to gain independence, grow their resilience and build lifelong friendships.
Discover new talents and skills
Boarding school offers young people a fulfilling academic and social experience. A key benefit to boarding is a longer and, arguably, more rewarding day. Without the wasted time travelling to and from school, students can invest more time into discovering extra-curricular activities – be it on the stage, sports grounds or in the library.
Teachers are also in a better position to nurture your child’s talents, providing them with new opportunities to reach their full potential. With more time in the classroom, they can truly get to know your child and adapt to different student learning styles.
Flexible approach
To adapt to busy and ever-changing family schedules, many boarding schools these days offer a flexible approach to boarding.
Schools tend to offer flexi, weekly and full boarding – flexi options are becoming more popular and could involve a child staying over for a couple of nights during the week. Even just spending a couple of days boarding gives pupils extra time for activities which will develop their skills.
With a flexible approach, this means that families can enjoy quality time with one another when they are all home together, instead of children being pestered to complete their homework!
A lifelong network of peers
At boarding school, children develop strong friendships with fellow pupils.
Boarding students live, learn, and play together, and because of this, many boarding school students will develop lifelong bonds. They will also experience a large cross section of different cultures from around the world, helping them to develop a global outlook.
Establishing a positive social network in childhood is highly beneficial – helping young people to develop vital communication skills and navigate a variety of social situations with confidence.
Where students become independent young adults
Boarding schools offer students a greater degree of independence, encouraging them to take responsibility for themselves, manage their own schedule, and look after their personal space.
While teachers will always be on hand to support and guide pupils, boarders learn how to think and care for themselves quickly. This level of independence is incredibly empowering for a young person, setting them up for a lifelong path of self-belief, competence and belonging. Higher levels of independence are linked to increased self-esteem, greater life satisfaction and improved relationships in adulthood – all vital attributes for a healthy, happy life.
By the time your child leaves boarding school, they will be equipped to take on new responsibilities and embrace potential challenges. With a wealth of experience and friendships under their belt, they will have already have learned how to be responsible, resilient young adults - ready to face their academic, and other, pursuits head on.
If you are considering sending your child to a Scottish independent school, the SCIS can help you with your search – use our find a school tool or get in touch with us today.