essay on boarding school advantages and disadvantages

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Advantages and Disadvantages of Boarding School

Is Boarding School Good Or Bad?

Advantages of sending your kid to a boarding school, disadvantages of sending your kid to a boarding school, what care should be taken if you send your child to hostel.

As your child progresses in age and development, you might be thinking of all the schooling options available. Just getting any education is no longer option; in today’s world, we are all searching for a comprehensive learning environment that looks after not just academic excellence but all around development that is holistic and inclusive.

Unlike traditional schools, boarding schools for children have the pupils live on campus. They have their classes together, meals together, and live in common housing. Children go home during the summer holidays, between grades, and some schools even allow children to go home on the weekends. As with other schools, you must look at what option will suit your child. There is no way to make a broad conclusion as to whether boarding schools are good or bad. Each child is an individual with individual needs and each school has a different mission statement and vision. The trick is to find a school that matches your child’s temperament and needs.

There are numerous advantages to sending your child to a boarding school, some of them surprising. Here are some of these advantages.

• Independence and Self-reliance: Almost all boarding school children find that they are more independent and self-reliant than their other peers. They have to solve daily problems themselves, like organising for soap when they run out or making sure that their school uniforms are washed and ironed.
• Confidence: As the children begin to do things, small and big, on their own, they will start building up more confidence in their own abilities. Boarding schools expose children to many activities like social service, art, drama, and carpentry amongst others. As they begin to find what they like and are good at, children will develop more confidence.
• Discipline: Boarding students live a more regimented life than their peers. Meal times are set as is study time. If they are allowed to watch TV, it is also closely regulated. Learning discipline is important for children as it will help them achieve their goals.
• Standard Living: All the students will live in the same quarters and some schools even stipulate that a child must receive only a certain amount as allowance. This puts all the students on an equal footing and strips away the unnecessary trials of status and ownership.
• Social Confidence: As your children mingle, study, and live with hundreds of other children, they will soon learn how to transcend differences. Making and being a part of a group is at the core of living in a boarding school, and most pupils of these schools emerge as healthy social beings.
• Educational Excellence: Since the children live on the campus, they can reach out for help with their studies at any given time. Boarding schools can help set up after-school prep for students who struggle with certain concepts. Studying with peers means that the pupils will always have someone to learn from.
• Holistic Development: After school, students of boarding schools are exposed to a multitude of activities that will ensure that they have a rounded education that includes the arts. Since it is school mandated, there can be no issue of a hobby coming in the way of studies and children can pursue their passion.

While there are many advantages to learning in a boarding school there are certain disadvantages that you must keep in mind if thinking of sending your child to such a school.

• Homesickness: While boarding schools are full of kids who have a lot of things in common, there is no denying that a child will still feel homesick for his family and home.
• Empty Nest: You too might find that the separation from your child is emotionally too difficult.
• Blending In: Boarding school is full of children and it isn’t necessary that your child will fit in. While some children immediately find themselves some friends, certain children will have a tougher time.
• Adjusting: Some children do not take to the regimented life of boarding school and would much rather be the master of their free time. These children might also find it hard to reconnect with the family after spending so many months away.
• Gender Separation: Most boarding schools are either boys-only or girls-only. However, in today’s age, it is extremely important for children to be a part of co-ed institutions.
• Other Risks: Some other risks include bullying which can be especially hard to weed out in boarding schools where children spend most of their time together.
• Academic Pressure: With regular schools, children can leave the school and remove themselves from the pressure of excelling at studies. However, in a boarding school, the pressure is constant.
• Only the extracurricular activities provided by the school are given any importance or attention. If your child has any special talents, this will not be given the attention it needs to flourish.

If you have decided to send your child to a boarding school, then here are a few things that you must take care of before sending them off.

• You must take the time to explain to your child why you think sending him to a boarding school is good for him. Be sure to assure him that you are not abandoning him.
• Even though your child will be spending almost all his time at the school, you still should keep tabs on his classroom performance. Keep in touch with all the teachers and follow up on your child’s progress.
• Trust your child. If he is telling you worrying stories about the school and the students, then take his concerns seriously. If the story is negative, then the school might try to downplay the seriousness of the issue.
• Do not send your child to boarding school before the age of 9. Most experts agree that this is the ideal age for boarding school.
• Keep a watch out for any signs of unhappiness. Your child might not be forthcoming about how he really feels at school for fear of disappointing you.
• Be sure to talk to the management about any special needs that your child might need.

There are many pros and cons of boarding school. The decision to send your child to a boarding school will entirely depend on the nature and needs of your child as well as the particular boarding school in question. Do your due diligence and reach out to other parents whose children go the school you are researching.

Also Read: How to Build Confidence in Kids

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29 Major Pros & Cons Of Boarding Schools

“ Having your adolescence at an all-male boarding school is just crap.”

Benedict Crumberbatch, Actor

Advantages & Disadvantages of Boarding Schools

Boarding school is a certain type of school where the kids actually live on the school premise, in contrast to day school where kids come back home every day.

Boarding school has a long tradition in some countries.

However, over the past decades, it lost part of its popularity.

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Even though boarding school has some advantages, there are also serious downsides related to it.

In this article, the pros and cons of boarding school are examined.

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Advantages of boarding schools, unique education possibilities, community feeling, friends for a lifetime, future business connections, students may actually feel at home in school, increases sense of responsibility of children, contributes to the independence of pupils, fosters discipline, decision-making is encouraged, may prevent kids to do stupid things, students may be more eager to learn, boarding school traditions, students from all over the world, personal development programs, innovative teaching techniques, students can have a mentor.

One major advantage of boarding schools is that they provide their students with high-quality and also with unique education possibilities.

Boarding schools often have quite high standards and teachers are often experts in their field.

Thus, pupils will be able to get a quite good education, which may give them pretty good career opportunities afterward.

Moreover, they may also be able to join courses that would usually not be offered in conventional schools.

Hence, students may be able to broaden their knowledge through the attendance of boarding schools.

Since children spend all day and night in boarding schools, they also develop a strong feeling of community.

Some children will build pretty strong connections to their roommates and their teachers.

This strong connection to the institution may increase the students’ motivation and their learning behavior since they will actually enjoy their stay in boarding school.

Boarding schools are also known to form quite strong bonds among students.

Many children find friends for a lifetime in boarding school and they will stay in contact with each other also when they finally leave boarding school.

Really good friendships are rare and therefore, this can be seen as another important advantage boarding schools can offer to their students.

Boarding schools do not only promote friendships, they are also known to provide their students with excellent networking opportunities.

Since many kids in boarding schools come from wealthy families and will have pretty decent jobs afterward, chances are that those connections children make early on in their lives will lead to a strong business network once they grow up.

This may give these children pretty good job opportunities and a strong network for the rest of their lives.

Some children also enjoy their stay in boarding school more compared to staying with their parents.

Thus, some children might actually feel like boarding school is their home.

Especially those students will have a great motivation to study hard since they will really identify with their school, which may lead to better grades and better job opportunities afterwards.

Children who attend boarding school may also be more responsible compared to children who attend conventional schools at the same age.

This is true to the fact that children in boarding schools have a quite strict curriculum and are expected to learn and study hard in order to sustain the good reputation of the institution.

Thus, children in boarding schools are often told how important it is to study hard and those children will develop a strong sense of responsibility to comply with the rules due to that.

Since children in boarding schools will not have their parents around who will do the laundry and also organize their daily life, they have to grow up faster and will become more independent in a shorter period of time compared to children who attend day school.

A high level of independence is quite an important characteristic which helps in all parts of daily life.

Thus, children who attend boarding school may develop this important characteristic faster and may be able to succeed in life better on average.

Discipline is another trait that is taught to students in boarding school.

Teachers in boarding schools often pay close attention to the behavior of their students and a lack of discipline is often punished in a certain way.

Therefore, children will learn a high level of discipline at a quite early stage, which may also benefit them their whole life since discipline is a key feature for success.

Children in boarding schools are also often encouraged to make their own decisions from a quite young age.

Since decisions determine how our future life will look like, it is quite important to give those kids the opportunity to make those decisions so that they are also prepared to make difficult decisions once they turn into grownups later.

While many teenagers consume plenty of alcohol and drugs, children in boarding schools are often quite restricted in this regard and supervisors take great care to assure that there are no such substances inside their institution.

Hence, while other kids may develop alcohol or drug problems or even addictions, children in boarding schools may be better protected against this problem.

In general, due to the high level of discipline students are taught on a daily basis, they are more likely to study hard and to learn quite fast.

This may give them an important advantage when it comes to college applications.

Kids from boarding school may also have it easier to keep up with the strict pace of some elite universities since they learned from an early age on to study hard while other kids from conventional schools may have a harder time adapting to the learning pace in college.

Some boarding schools also have quite nice traditions which have been practiced centuries ago and will still be celebrated.

For students in those boarding schools, this can be quite exciting and can also broaden their horizon since they will get a better feeling of how life looked centuries ago and what was important to people in former ages.

Boarding schools are not only meant for local children, they also have plenty of partnerships for international students.

Thus, there is often a big variety of different cultures in boarding school, which can be quite interesting and also quite beneficial for students since they get to experience different cultures over time.

Boarding schools also often promote a variety of personal development programs.

For your future career, it is not only your knowledge of hard skills that makes you succeed in the corporate world.

It is also important how you present your results, how you communicate to clients and so on.

In order to perfect all of this, it is crucial growing on a mental level.

Boarding schools recognized that and children are taught from an early age on what is important in this regard so that they can incorporate those characteristics into adulthood.

Boarding schools are also known to be quite innovative and to provide students with the latest technologies in order to improve the learning experience.

This can be quite beneficial for students since they will be able to get to know the latest innovations in time and will often have an advantage over other students regarding technological knowledge. In turn, this may translate into better job opportunities.

Mentoring is also a popular thing in boarding schools.

Many successful people claim that it is important to have a mentor in order to really learn what it needs to be successful in our current society.

Boarding schools provide children with a mentor who takes care of them and who is there to answer questions and to assist them with all kinds of issues.

Disadvantages of Boarding Schools

Tuition fees can be quite high, being away from your family, children may get homesick, no clear separation of school and leisure, difficulties to find friends outside boarding school, also difficult for parents, quality of boarding schools greatly varies, some kids may not feel comfortable, pressure on kids may be high, gender separation, mental issues, special talents may not be supported.

As we have seen before, boarding schools can have many important advantages for children.

However, there are also some issues related to boarding schools.

For example, boarding schools often have pretty high tuition fees which can be as high as 50,000 USD per year.

Thus, only quite privileged children from wealthy families might have the opportunity to attend those schools.

Paying this sum of money will never be possible for a middle-class family.

Therefore, boarding schools may be reserved for kids from rich families, which could be considered to be unfair since every kid should have similar educational opportunities.

Another disadvantage of boarding schools is that children are away from their families all year long.

This can be quite problematic since parents and children may miss each other quite a lot and many families may not be able to emotionally deal with this problem.

Some children will also never be able to form a strong connection to their parents since they will simply not see them too often from an early age.

Some children may also not be able to deal with being away from home at all.

They may get homesick and may not be able to concentrate and learn since they always think about going back home.

Therefore, for some children, boarding schools will simply not be the right place to grow up since they will not be emotionally stable enough.

Opponents of boarding schools also often claim that there is no clear separation between school and leisure in boarding schools and that this might not be healthy for children in the long run.

In their eyes, children should have a clear cut when school is over and should focus on playing outside and other things instead of staying on the campus all day long.

Thus, this lack of separation of school and leisure time may be emotionally challenging for some kids.

Even though there are often quite strong bonds and friendships between children in boarding school, those kids will have almost no friends outside boarding school since they simply live on campus and will not be able to leave it too often.

Thus, apart from the connections in boarding school, those kids may be quite lonely.

This may be especially bad for kids who have difficulties to find friends in boarding school since they might end up with no friends at all.

Sending your kids to boarding school may not only be difficult for your children, it might also be a large emotional burden for you.

Imagine your kid will stay in boarding school all year long and you will only see it a few times a year.

Chances are that you might be quite sad and regret that you sent your kid to boarding school sooner or later.

Thus, before sending your children to boarding school, make sure that you are emotionally ready for it.

Although boarding schools are known to provide high-quality education, there are also some schools around which only provide quite poor education levels.

Thus, before choosing a boarding school, make sure that you read reviews and also talk to your family and friends in order to ensure a high-quality education for your children.

Depending on the character of your kid, boarding schools might not be the right way to go.

For instance, some children are not ready to leave their parents behind at a quite young age.

They rather want to stay at home and attend a regular school.

Thus, you should really figure out if your kid has the characteristics and the mental strengths for boarding school before deciding to send your child there.

Before sending your kid to boarding school, you should also consider the fact that the pressure on children in those schools can be quite high and that this may lead to serious health issues for those children in the long run.

Some institutions are quite strict regarding their rules and also demand excellent academic results from their students in order to sustain their good reputation across the country.

Although academic excellence can be a good thing, too much of it might lead to excessive pressure which might even emotionally harm children.

Many boarding schools also have strict gender separation.

This may be considered to be problematic since if children are not able to talk to other children of the opposite gender, they might not be able to emotionally develop in a healthy manner.

It can also be considered to be quite outdated to separate children from the opposite gender.

Thus, gender separation may be another serious downside of boarding schools.

Like in many other schools, bullying is also a problem in boarding school.

However, it can be even more severe in boarding schools since children have to stay on campus all day long and even have to sleep there.

Therefore, if children are victims of bullying, they might have a quite hard time in boarding schools since they will not have any time off at all.

Due to homesickness or bullying, some children may also suffer from serious mental issues .

This may include depressions or also eating disorders.

Since their parents are often hundreds or even thousands of miles away, children in boarding schools may feel quite lonely and may not be able to get proper assistance in order to solve their problems.

Even though the education levels in boarding schools are often quite good, the focus in boarding school is often set on mainstream education and children who have special talents may not be supported sufficiently.

Therefore, for instance, children who might have had the opportunity to become world-class athletes in a certain niche sport may not be supported sufficiently in this area and may not be able to convert their talent into a profession later on.

Boarding School Pros & Cons – Summary List

Should you send your kid to boarding school.

Whether you should send your child to boarding school is a difficult question.

Although boarding schools have many important advantages, there are also some serious problems that can’t be overlooked.

Before making a decision, make sure to check out all the pros and cons of boarding schools and also talk to your child about it.

Only then will it be possible to do what’s best for your child and also for your family.

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Boarding School Pros and Cons: History and Common Misconceptions

We live in the misinformation and disinformation age. That applies to boarding schools as it does to anything you can think of. While I've previously written about boarding school misconceptions in Boarding School Myths , I thought it would be helpful to parents investigating sending their child to a residential school. After all, your child will hear a chorus of misconceptions on social media before you tell her the facts. That's the downside of our receiving information and opinion from social media. Journalism investigates. Social media postulates.

The History of Boarding Schools

The history of boarding schools in the United States is as complex as it is profound. They originated in the colonial period, but their importance grew significantly during the 18th and 19th centuries. The first boarding schools were established by religious groups aiming to provide education to the children of the wealthy elite, often integrating religious teachings with a more traditional curriculum. Many of these early boarding schools were single-gender institutions, instilling a rigidly structured environment that shaped young people according to the societal expectations of the time.

President George Washington visited the Academy during its first year, and spoke in 1789 as part of his tour of New England.

Source: History of Phillips Andover Academy

The 19th century saw the emergence of Native American boarding schools, a less lauded chapter in the history of boarding schools in the U.S. This system was an attempt by the U.S. government to assimilate Native American children into mainstream society. This move has been widely criticized for its cultural eradication implications. Students in these schools were often prohibited from speaking their native languages or practicing their cultural traditions, leading to a loss of cultural identity and heritage.

This video offers a glimpse of Phillips Andover's ethos and purpose as one of the nation's top boarding schools.

In the 20th century, the landscape of boarding schools started to shift. The advent of progressive education theories began to influence their methodologies, moving away from strict, regimented curricula to a more holistic, student-centered approach. Boarding schools began to emphasize character development, leadership skills, personal growth, and academic achievement. Single-gender schools became co-educational, reflecting the broader societal move towards gender equality.

Today, American boarding schools are diverse institutions serving a wide array of student needs and interests. From those that cater to students with specific talents or academic focuses to others designed for students needing more structured support, the scope of what a boarding school can be has significantly expanded. Despite their varied forms and functions, they continue to share the foundational goal of offering a comprehensive, immersive education experience.

Character development, leadership skills, and personal growth alongside academic achievement

In today's fast-paced, interconnected world, success extends beyond simply excelling academically. Education is no longer just about learning facts and figures. Instead, it's about producing well-rounded individuals capable of thinking critically, solving problems creatively, and working effectively with others. This is where boarding schools, with their emphasis on character development, leadership skills, and personal growth, play a significant role.

Firstly, character development is central to boarding school education. Boarding schools often strongly emphasize values such as honesty, respect, empathy, and resilience. When ingrained in students from an early age, these values form the foundation of their character, shaping them into responsible, compassionate, and conscientious individuals. Students develop maturity and a strong sense of personal responsibility by learning to interact with a diverse set of peers and adults and managing day-to-day duties on their own.

We launch women who change the world (for the better!). Tomorrow’s world-changers are made at Madeira – because Madeira is made for today’s young women.

Source: Madeira at a Glance

Secondly, leadership skills are nurtured within the boarding school environment. Schools provide ample opportunities for students to take on leadership roles in academic projects, sports teams, student government, or other extracurricular activities. These experiences foster confidence, decision-making abilities, problem-solving skills, and teamwork, all of which are critical leadership qualities. By offering real-life opportunities to lead and influence, boarding schools foster a leadership mindset among students, preparing them to succeed in future professional and societal roles.

Lastly, the focus on personal growth ensures that students are academically proficient and emotionally and socially skilled. The boarding school environment encourages students to explore their interests, discover new passions, face challenges, and learn from failures, leading to a greater understanding of their strengths, weaknesses, and potential. This self-awareness is critical for personal growth and lifelong learning.

Thus, the holistic approach adopted by boarding schools cultivates balanced growth in young people. By integrating academic learning with character building, leadership training, and personal development, boarding schools prepare students for life beyond the classroom, equipping them with the competencies and character traits needed to thrive in the 21st century.

This video overs a glimpse at the famed Madeira School in Virginia.

Current perceptions and misconceptions

Experiences, societal notions, and popular culture often frame the perceptions of boarding schools. Many people, particularly those familiar with the boarding school environment, recognize the potential benefits these institutions can offer. These include high-quality education, structured learning environments, rich extracurricular activities, cultural diversity, and robust character development. The successful alums that many boarding schools produce further reinforce the perception of these institutions as conducive to academic and personal growth. However, several misconceptions about boarding schools persist, leading to misunderstanding or skepticism.

One of the most common misconceptions is that boarding schools are exclusively for the wealthy elite. While it's true that many boarding schools carry a hefty price tag, many others offer scholarships and financial aid packages that make them accessible to a broader socioeconomic range.

Lack of Family Contact

Some people believe that boarding school students are isolated from their families, which is not typically the case. Most schools have regular visiting hours, family weekends, and breaks during which students go home. Moreover, modern technology allows for frequent contact between students and their families.

Emotional Hardship

Another misconception is that boarding schools are emotionally harsh and lead to feelings of abandonment or severe homesickness. While homesickness is a natural phenomenon, especially in the early days, most schools have support systems, such as mentorship programs, counseling services, and a nurturing community to help students adjust.

Uniform Education

There's a misconception that boarding schools provide a uniform, one-size-fits-all education. However, many boarding schools offer a diverse curriculum with many courses and a focus on individual learning styles.

Discipline and Rigidity

Some perceive boarding schools as overly strict and rigid, influenced by outdated stereotypes. While boarding schools provide structure, they also value personal development and encourage students to explore their interests and express their individuality.

Understanding the reality behind these perceptions and misconceptions is crucial for parents and students considering a boarding school education. It's essential to research, visit schools, and speak with current students, alums, and faculty to gain an accurate and comprehensive understanding of the boarding school experience.

Questions? Contact us on Facebook. @boardingschoolreview

#BoardingSchoolLife #Education #HolisticDevelopment #CharacterBuilding #LeadershipSkills #AcademicExcellence #CulturalDiversity #BoardingSchoolMisconceptions

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Advantages & Disadvantages of Boarding School

The Disadvantages of Double Shift Schedules in Overcrowded US High ...

Boarding schools present both advantages and disadvantages to the students who attend them and the families of the students. When deciding whether or not to send a child to boarding school, it is important to consider every way in which this lifestyle will affect the student's academic life, social life, family life and future opportunities.

Advantages of Boarding Schools

In a boarding school setting, a student may be able to learn independence and a sufficient sense of self. Because he is in a more enclosed environment, a stability is present within all of the student's educational and social settings. Educational advantages begin with the ability of students and teachers to cultivate personal relationships that encourage more growth and provide extra help with academic and personal betterment. At a boarding school, students are provided with study sessions that are supervised by teachers, thus improving performance in school. Many classes are also available that better fit in with each student's specific interests.

Disadvantages of Boarding Schools

It can be difficult for a student to adjust to boarding school because she has been placed in completely new surroundings with unfamiliar people and circumstances. Time spent with family and friends from home becomes limited, which can make the transition seem harder. A personal life away from school is also difficult to maintain due to the high expectations of academic excellence in a typical boarding school. Also, extracurricular activities provided by the school often occupy a student's time after classes and on the weekends. And although rules and guidelines are needed to implement discipline in students, oftentimes a boarding school student must strictly adhere to even minor rules or risk expulsion.

Boarding Schools in the United States

Choosing between a boarding school in the United States and one abroad can be difficult because both have certain advantages. Boarding schools in the U.S. may increase the chance for family visits due to being closer to home than schools abroad. This reduces any travel time and costs that the student's family may encounter when planning visits. This may also relax both the student and his family because they won't be so far apart. Also, there are generally more choices of boarding schools in the U.S., and financial aid and visits prior to admission are more readily available.

Boarding Schools Abroad

An advantage of boarding schools located in other countries is that they offer a student a fresh, new experience in a completely different culture. The student will extensively learn about how other parts of the world work, and may even become familiar with other languages. This gives her an advantage in later employment opportunities. Also, students in boarding schools abroad have an advantage when applying for college, because colleges will value a well-rounded student with international experience.

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• Boarding School Review: 10 Top Reasons to Go to Boarding School

Kelsi Johnston has been writing short stories and assorted articles since 2008. She has experience in news writing and technical writing and her work has appeared in various online publications. She is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in English and creative writing from Auburn University.

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Pros and cons of boarding school

The main advantages and disadvantages of boarding school.

What are the pros and cons of boarding school ? Families need to create their own list, based on the needs of the family and of children. As a starting point, though, here is an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of sending children to boarding school. Click on the links for each to learn more. To learn more, read our guide to private school living.   

Boarding school offers many distinct advantages unavailable anywhere else.

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Unique education and opportunity . Boarding school offers a completely unique education experience, with many advantages over other education experiences. 

Traditional standards . Many boarding schools, perhaps especially those with longer histories in Canada, honour and maintain the traditions that they represent.

Close community of learners . Students join an academic community that respects learning and can be transformative. 

International and global perspectives . Intensive international programs are a priority for boarding schools.

Daily routine that invokes self-discipline . Strict routine and independence from parents fosters self-reliance among boarding school boys and girls.

Academic development like no other . Boarding school fosters a supportive "all in this together" community where kids have opportunities to learn collaboration. 

Unique social and personal development . The boarding school environment offers opportunities for personal growth and social development that are unavailable through other means.

Mentorship . Teachers and older students in a boarding school environment are uniquely supportive of younger students.

An environment of learning outside the classroom . The immersion in school life offered by boarding allows a holistic approach to learning that extends well beyond classroom walls.

Culture of collaboration and responsibility . The boarding school environment encourages all children to learn more about how to work well with others.

Cross-curricular . The extra time allowed by boarding school allows for fuller integration of curricula and programs.

Academic innovation . A number of top boarding schools are often ahead of the curve in terms of creating or integrating innovative education techniques and improvements. 

No school is perfect, and parents and students considering boarding schools need to be aware of some potential disadvantages or concerns.

More expensive than other private education options . Of course, boarding school is more expensive than other education options (although room and board is included in the cost ).

The presence of bullying and related problems . Boarding school are not immune to problems with bullying (as is sometimes documented in the media), but they are also uniquely well-positioned to deal with bullying through innovative programs that help students integrate. 

Moving away from home can be very difficult . This is the biggest challenge of boarding for many students, but of course this also fosters independence and personal growth. 

Boarding too young can lead to "boarding school syndrome."  This is a documented problem, and parents need to be wary of sending kids to school too young or when they have not matured enough.   

Child-specific advice on choosing a boarding school Read our  child-specific insights on choosing the right school , including boarding schools . We explore how  choosing the right type of school  crucially depends on kids' unique traits, such as their  mental  and  academic focus ,  social tendencies ,  and  activity level .

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Boarding Schools: Advantages & Disadvantages

Boarding schools are an alternative to homeschooling. They provide a safe and supportive environment where students can learn and grow. Students who attend boarding schools can focus on their studies rather than worry about the distractions of home life, such as chores or family problems. 

Boarding schools provide students with a unique opportunity to learn in an atmosphere where they can thrive and develop as individuals. At boarding schools, students are given the space and time they need to study and grow without distractions from home or other responsibilities. Boarding schools also offer an environment where students can become part of a community that cares about them, providing guidance and support as they pursue their goals. Boarding schools provide students with a unique opportunity to learn and grow in a supportive environment. Students can interact with others from different backgrounds, which helps them develop empathy, tolerance, and understanding. 

Also Read: Top 10 Boarding Schools in Dehradun

Advantages of Boarding Schools

Boarding schools are a great option for students who have trouble fitting in at their local school. They provide a safe environment where students can thrive and find their passion.  Here are some of the advantages of boarding schools:

1. Provides a Good Atmosphere for Learning

A positive atmosphere is created in a boarding school that is conducive to learning. The school’s architecture, facilities and other infrastructure are designed with this in mind. A feeling of security is also created for students since they know that there will always be people around them who can help them if they need anything or if anything goes wrong during their stay at school. This eliminates stress from students’ lives as they learn more effectively when they are relaxed and comfortable with their surroundings.

2. Increases Social Skills

Students who attend boarding schools tend to improve their social skills because they interact with so many different people daily). They learn how to interact with others effectively by playing sports or other group activities that require teamwork and cooperation. This improves their communication skills as well as their ability to work with others under stressful conditions.

3. Boarding School Teaches Responsibility & Independence

In addition to getting away from home, most boarding schools give students responsibilities like chores around the campus or helping with younger students’ needs (like making sure they go to bed at night). These tasks teach responsibility and accountability—important qualities that will serve your child well as he or she grows up and becomes more independent.

Like any other young adult, teens need to practice being on their own to develop the skills needed to live independently as adults.

4. Boarding School Is an Escape From Home

Kids can get sick of their parents’ rules and demands, so it’s nice for them to have a break from the daily grind. And even if they don’t want to escape, there’s no denying that a little distance can be good for family relationships. It gives parents and teens time apart so they can recharge their batteries and reconnect when they come back together again.

5. Enhance their personality

Boarding schools help students develop social skills and strengthen their self-confidence. It also encourages them to be creative and independent thinkers. They offer you an opportunity to grow as an individual, and it also helps you develop into a better person. The environment of boarding schools is usually more relaxed than in public schools, which means that students are allowed to be themselves and express themselves freely.

Furthermore, at boarding schools, you get to meet people from different backgrounds and cultures. This helps you broaden your perspective about the world around you and learn how to interact with others who don’t necessarily share the same beliefs as you do.

Disadvantages of Boarding Schools

Boarding schools are becoming increasingly popular for both parents and students. While the advantages of boarding schools are numerous, there are also some disadvantages that parents should be aware of before making this decision.

1. You will receive less communication from your child

No question staying in touch with your child is one of the most important aspects of parenting. However, many parents worry about how many contacts they will have with their children when they go away to boarding school. If you are worried about this, you can ask your child’s teacher or counsellor what type of communication they recommend between parent and child. Parents can also use technology such as Skype calls or email to keep in touch with their children while they are away at school. Just make sure that you do not overwhelm your child with emails or phone calls!

2. It can be difficult to transition into a new environment

Transitioning into a new environment can be difficult for anyone, especially when it comes to boarding schools where students are living away from home for an extended period. While some students may thrive off of being independent and having more freedom than they did at home, others may need more help adjusting to their surroundings than what is provided by teachers and counsellors.

3. Boarding School Costs

The biggest disadvantage of sending your child to a boarding school is the cost associated with it. Boarding schools cost high fees per year depending on the location and type of program offered by the school. While these costs might seem steep at first glance, they typically break down into monthly payments that are much more manageable than paying tuition all at once at the beginning of the year or semester. But keep in mind that some boarding schools do require payment before your child even arrives on campus so make sure you have enough money set aside before making any decisions about which school is right for your family.

4. Increases risk of depression and suicide

In some cases, boarding schools can increase the risk of depression and suicide among their students. In many cases, this is because the students are away from their families for extended periods and don’t have access to the resources they need to get through difficult times in life. The lack of support can increase feelings of isolation and loneliness that can lead to depression.

5. Limits social interaction

Another disadvantage of boarding schools is that students may not have as much opportunity for social interaction as they would if they were in a traditional school setting. While there are some benefits associated with this — such as having less distraction so you can focus on your studies — it means that students may end up feeling less connected to others around them because they only interact with each other once or twice a week during free time or sporting events or extracurricular activities.

I do certainly believe that boarding schools are worthwhile for a subset of students with certain needs, but I also believe that homeschooling can benefit the vast majority of students. It’s difficult to make a general recommendation for everyone. If you’re unsure about which type of school is best for your child, take some time to look into both options. I also highly recommend speaking with a family counsellor (a free resource from the school system to help families open up discussions) and doing in-person research on each type of school before making any decisions.

For any queries related to parenting, schooling, or any student-related tips,  click here to check out our latest blogs.

Related posts:

• Advantages and Disadvantages Of E-learning
• Advantages and Disadvantages of studying in an International School In India
• Advantages of all girls boarding school over co-Ed schools
• Boarding Schools: Advantage And Disadvantages

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Benefits of Boarding Schools: What Experts Say

We Asked Some of the Best Boarding Schools in the World About What are the Benefits of Boarding Schools! Let’s See What They Had To Say.

Top 7 Benefits of Attending a Boarding School

International education, high academic standards, extra-curricular activities, character development, university preparation, lifelong friendships, language immersion.

“At boarding school, your child will meet other students that come from all over the world. At École Jeannine Manuel Lille, we have students that come from the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Iran, Tanzania, China, Singapore…and many other places! Being immersed in a multicultural and international environment helps children develop essential 21st-century skills such as critical thinking and intercultural communication. These will open countless doors for your children as they progress through their studies and, eventually, their career.”

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At international schools where children are taught in, say, English (when it’s not their first language), boarding will immerse them in a community that fast-tracks their absorption of the language. It has been remarkable to see students at Rugby School Thailand who arrive speaking almost no English, becoming proficient speakers within weeks!

At Institut Montana, the boarding students learn to embrace and appreciate cultural differences. They live together harmoniously and discover diversity through daily conversations with fellow boarding students from all around the world.  In today’s globalised society, we believe it is very beneficial to be exposed to various languages and nationalities, as this helps develop critical thinking skills, open-mindedness, and tolerance. On the academic side, we offer a truly international education with a range of options tailored for each student.

The learning experience at boarding school is very different to the one at day school. Boarding schools have the advantage of being able to design and implement a curriculum that challenges and inspires their students.

Top boarding schools employ the best teachers in their subjects so that students get the best possible teaching experience and tuition and achieve the best possible results in their exams.

Of course, in a boarding setting it is given that students are supported with their homework, which is impossible in many cases at day schools where students have to produce their homework from home without any support.

Living at School Means Less Time Commuting, More Time to Study. Many of our boarders come from Bangkok or busy cities in neighbouring countries, where they’ve swapped slow city traffic for a short walk through school grounds. This gives our boarders more time in their day to focus on the things that matter most, such as study, music practice, and exercise.

Our boarding houses have dedicated study rooms that allow students to spend their spare time putting in extra hours where needed. We respect, and indeed instil, an ethos to work hard… but the House Parents also help the children in their care to strike a good balance of work and play.

Our after school boarding activities are run by teachers and tutors, meaning the children who board with us have more exposure to these academic guides. This allows them to ask questions in their free time and build an even stronger rapport with their teachers, which benefits their classroom work.

Beyond peer-to-peer friendships, one of the other very important aspects of Swiss boarding school is the building of mentoring relationships with staff and teachers at the school. A school with small class sizes and excellent student-to-teacher ratios, fosters these kinds of close relationships. Because each class size is very manageable for the teacher, every student gets personalized attention and tailored learning adjustments, if need be. A small school will never lose track of a student falling behind, but instead will always be offering support and guidance as well as extra challenge for those that require it.

We offer small classes of averagely 10 students, where teachers pay individual attention to every student, helping them with their personal strengths and weaknesses.

There is designated study time after school for students to do their homework. This study time is supervised by teachers who are available to help with questions. Later the house-parents are available to support students in reaching their goals. When a community of friends lives and learns together, they absorb the advantages of peer learning. Boarding students can do homework together and challenge each other academically. This can be hugely motivating and enrich their learning.

“Boarding schools often have excellent sports and arts facilities that allow children to thrive outside the classroom. We are very proud at École Jeannine Manuel Lille of our 1500m2 gym and climbing wall, our 300-meter racing track, as well as our many other facilities that our students use to relax and enjoy themselves after class. Taking part in a wide variety of afterschool activities allows our students to develop into happy and well-rounded individuals.”

Like all great boarding schools, the facilities at Rugby School Thailand become part of students’ home environment. This means playing fields are a back garden for boarders, and swimming in the school pools, exploring the nature trails around the grounds, and camping in the Outdoor Education Centre are regular activities. Life on campus is dynamic and inspiring—but we also take boarders to a whole host of exciting local places on weekend excursions.

The word “boring” does not belong to the lexicon of boarding students at Institut Montana. Their free time is filled with options that promote physical and mental health as well as providing lots of fun. We have facilities for sports, partners to play chess, workshops for becoming an expert in robotics and the chance to explore cooking from around the world. This helps to keep our students busy and constantly learning new skills. We also offer extra tuition for students with a particular skill or passion, weekend activities and holiday trips. The opportunities are endless in the heart of Switzerland, whether cultural: visiting historic cities or art galleries; or adventurous: karting, water sliding in canyons or rock climbing. And of course, there is always skiing in winter!

This is a big advantage when starting university because the move into university accommodation does not feel like such a big step from boarding. In addition, during the adaptation phase at the school, children receive close attention and pastoral care from specialist staff which is mostly unavailable at university, so that the transition to boarding and then university is usually much smoother than the one from day school straight to university.

At Rugby School Thailand our boarding houses encourage (age-appropriate) independence. For example, children make their own bed and are encouraged to help with laundry, or with loading the dishwasher after snacks. This all contributes to our boarders leaving school with a mature attitude and prepared for life beyond.

Peer Support and Influence From a Close-knit Community: There’s an exemplary collective ethos towards work amongst our boarders. They all seem to understand what makes a good balance of study and time off, and this can fluctuate according to the time of year, for example when exams are happening. The boarders can just as easily encourage each other to learn, as they can celebrate free time and enjoy playing games with each other, talking, or reading novels.

From the first boarding years in Primary to the last ones in Secondary, great boarding schools build a sense of independence in children that helps them through life. For example, at Rugby School Thailand, children make their own bed and are encouraged to help with laundry, or with loading the dishwasher after snacks. This all contributes to our boarders leaving school with a mature attitude and prepared for the demands of university.

Attending a boarding school offers many advantages, teaching important skills to young adults so they grow with confidence, resilience and independence towards adulthood. House-parents play a huge role in this experience as counsellors, mediators, comforters and guides. They supervise the students in their daily lives, overseeing general well-being and supporting them as they learn how to structure and balance their days. As they get older, children need more freedom to learn self-responsibility. Boarding schools allow exploration and independence while keeping young people safe. At Institut Montana, the older students have the privilege to venture into the nearby city of Zug, with permission from parents.

In boarding, young people prepare for life beyond school with greater tolerance, respect, and independence. At Rugby School Thailand, from the first years of boarding in Year 3, right up to the last in Sixth Form, we nurture the idea of independence in children. This is anything from cleaning away after yourself in the kitchen, to helping with laundry, to being more responsible for planning your own time in the evenings and at weekends. All this happens within the unique and supportive family of friends that boarders live in, which is a great introduction to the community living that they will encounter at university.

Senior School boarding is particularly helpful for this, as students live in a social environment and are expected to manage much of their own study time within that. University exposes children to an exciting new social life, day and night, so by allowing them to enjoy an active social life that off-sets their hard work will give them an innate understanding of the balance they need to strike: work hard to play hard!

At Institut Montana we offer college counselling, where we help each student to identify their talents, interests and aspirations, thus guiding them to choose the most suitable university worldwide. Experienced counsellors guide students through the application process while helping them make important decisions and create a strong portfolio.

The friendships made in boarding houses are incredibly strong. There is a sense of family community that comes from living together, caring for and supporting each other, and enjoying free-time together. Some of the deepest-rooted friendships develop during a student’s time at boarding school.

The friendships established in boarding last a lifetime. Due to the ‘24/7’ nature of the bond, boarders know each other inside out and have been together through good and bad times. The network of friends and associates established in boarding school provides the ideal professional and business network in adult life.

“Boarding school is a home away from home. Our boarding school students develop friendships that will last them a lifetime, and they often have very strong ties to their teachers and dorm heads. Our alumni live and work all over the world, but wherever they are, their paths continue to cross throughout their lives”.

As Julien, an alumnus of Brillantmont International School from the 90s explained, “because the school was small, it was very easy for everyone to get to know each other and to get along. It was particularly easy to make friends with both day and boarding students alike.” Not only is making friends easier in a smaller boarding school, but often friendships span class levels and ages as well as nationalities.

The friendships we see in the boarding houses are deeper than any others made within school. The boarding community are like a family of friends; evenings are about eating together, supporting academic study and enjoying leisurely activities, while weekends offer a whole host of exciting excursions.

The friendships made at boarding school are incredibly strong. There can be a wonderful sense of family community that comes from living together, caring for and supporting each other, and enjoying free-time together. Friends playing in the pool of Regents International School Pattaya

A school boarding community can be like family; evenings are about eating together, supporting academic study and enjoying leisurely activities.

Above all look for a boarding school that has a family-friendly approach and flexible boarding options that feel right for your child.

Ask anyone what they like most about being a boarding student and the answer is likely to be friends! Boarding students eat together, live together and celebrate successes together. They create fond memories of evenings and weekends in each other’s company and can even turn the trying times into positive memories when they have their friends close by. Strong support systems are developed from sharing the formative experiences of these young adult lives. The bonds of friendship formed in boarding school last a lifetime, long after school years are over as shown by our alumni. 

At Institut Montana we cherish the strong sense of community shared by our former students and staff. We are a global family of passionate individuals. Our alumni look back on their school years with fond memories and laughter and many of them take time to mentor current students.

Research shows that language immersion helps students develop cognitive and communication skills at an early age. In addition to daily classwork, boarding schools motivate their students to learn languages by providing fun activities that promote immersive language learning, such as extracurricular clubs and activities.

Immersion is key

We recommend that parents place their children in an establishment where staff teach in their native language, or where many of the children have different mother tongues, including the language you would like your child to learn. This is the case at École Jeannine Manuel where a deliberate effort is made to enroll children with either French or English mother tongue (and sometimes neither!). Our students learn from one another by imitating and interacting with their classmates.

8 Reasons Why Boarding at Rugby School Thailand Can Benefit Your Child

Boarding is a special partnership between school, parent, and child—and holds the best interests of each student at all times. The right boarding environment for…

7 Things to Look for When Choosing a Boarding School

Boarding should feel like a ‘home away from home’ for students, a place where they can immerse themselves in a different side of academic life…

11 advantages of attending a boarding school

The decision to attend a boarding school can be life-changing. Even parents convinced of the advantages sometimes harbour doubts whether this step is right for their kids. Stereotypes about boarding schools often support their concerns.

In the article below, Swiss international boarding school Institut Montana cuts through the stereotypes. How does it look in real life? What are the benefits of attending a modern boarding school?

Learning independence

Starting a new life at boarding school is a huge adventure, but the change in lifestyle can be daunting.

Experienced boarding staff understand this. They know how much care to give at first and how gradually to help children take more responsibility. As days go by, boarding students become increasingly independent. They learn to fit into the rhythm of school life, to manage a timetable full of classes, meals and after-school activities. They also learn to keep their rooms tidy, to organise themselves for weekly laundry, and to make good use of their free time.

When it is time to leave for college, former boarding students arrive prepared. They have learnt how to be responsible, organised, they are full of initiative. They are ready to make the best of themselves.

Growing and learning together

When a community of friends lives and learns together, they absorb the advantages of peer learning. This is often hugely motivating. Boarding students can do their homework together and challenge each other academically, extending the depth of their learning and enriching their grasp of the subject matter. Of course, learning with your friends can be a lot more fun than doing homework by yourself at home.

Boarding schools often offer designated study time for students to do their homework. This study time is supervised by teachers who are available to help with questions. Later, houseparents are also available to support students; they have plenty of experience in helping students reach their goals.

Making lifelong friends

Ask anyone what they like most about being a boarding student, and the answer is likely to be – my friends! Boarding students eat together, live together, and celebrate successes together. They create fond memories of evenings and weekends in each other’s company. Even trying times can turn into positive memories when you have your friends close by. Strong support systems come from sharing the formative experiences of these young adult lives.

As we can see with our alumni, the bonds of friendship formed in boarding school last a lifetime, long after school years are over.

Structured life

An important part of growing up is learning how to structure your time.

Not all children learn self-regulation at the same pace, and boarding school life is organized to help each individual learn according to their needs. The day has a structure, with regulated wake-up times, sleeping and eating times. This has to fit into the academic timetable, with its slots for lessons, homework, activities and leisure time. Weekends have their own pattern of mealtimes and scheduled activities but with more flexibility. This helps students learn to exercise their judgement about finding a good balance. At the same time, each student is supported in their progress at developing the techniques to organize themselves well.

With the minimum of stress, and with careful attention to the healthy development of each child, these crucial skills become part of the repertoire of these growing young people.

Another aspect of a structured life is a balanced school calendar. Students at Institut Montana have longer Christmas, Easter and summer holidays, which allows them to spend quality time with their families.

Extracurricular activities

The word “boring” does not belong to the lexicon of boarding students. Their free time is filled with options that promote their physical and their mental health as well as providing lots of fun. Facilities for sports, partners to play chess, workshops for becoming an expert in robotics, options to explore cooking from around the world, a library and an art room, are right there to learn from.

These extracurricular activities help students stay active. They also discover hobbies and passions and grow into accomplished adults whose lives are rich.

Fun weekend and overnight holiday trips

Boarding life at weekends often means fun trips with your friends. In the heart of Switzerland, opportunities are endless. It could be cultural, visiting historic cities and famous art galleries; adventurous: karting, water sliding in canyons or rock climbing with a certified instructor. Holidays or long weekends might take students on overnight trips to explore other parts of this beautiful country and, of course, to go skiing in winter.

Life around nature

Many boarding schools, like Institut Montana Zugerberg, are in beautiful locations. They are surrounded by nature and secluded from the noise and pollution of big cities. For students it means lots of fresh air and outdoor activities on their doorstep: hiking, mountain biking, sledging, cross country skiing, the list goes on.

Balanced and healthy nutrition

Boarding students have all their meals at school, so it is essential that the food is carefully planned. The kitchen is a central part of any boarding school, with a chef who knows how to source ingredients that are local and fresh to ensure that these growing young people get the nutrients they need. Boarding school students have no time for unhealthy snacking. Instead, they are provided with healthy options in their breaks. At Institut Montana, bowls of fresh fruit are always available.

Wonderful houseparents: 24-hour supervision and care

Houseparents play a huge role in a boarding student’s life. They are counsellors, mediators, comforters and guides. They supervise students in their daily lives, overseeing their general well-being and supporting them as they learn how to structure and balance their days.

As they get older, children need a few more freedoms to learn self-responsibility. Boarding schools allow some exploration and independence while keeping those young people safe. At Institut Montana , for example, older students have the privilege to venture into the nearby city of Zug, with permission from parents, and subject to their record of behaviour. Of course, their houseparents know where they go, and students must be back punctually at the stated time.

Exposure to an incredible number of nationalities

In the modern globalized world, it is very beneficial to be exposed to various languages and nationalities. Boarding schools, especially Swiss boarding schools, are known to have diverse international communities.

Boarding students learn to embrace and appreciate the cultural differences, live together harmoniously and discover the diversity of our world through their daily conversations with fellow boarding students from other countries.

Network for life

Bonds formed among boarding school students are very strong and last for life. At Institut Montana , we cherish the strong sense of community shared by our former students and staff. We are a global family of passionate individuals who share a deep enthusiasm for education, a love of learning and affection for each other.

Our alumni look back on their school years with fond memories and laughter. Many of them take time to mentor current students. They come back on campus to deliver high-end workshops and love to give back to our community this way. Our alumni network is spread around the world, making it easy for our former students to find trust and support from a fellow boarding school friend in almost every corner of the world.

Attending a boarding school offers many advantages, teaching young adults important skills so that they grow with confidence, resilience and independence towards adulthood.

Institut Montana has almost 100 years of experience as a boarding school, but it continues to look forward. We make careful use of understanding of child development to provide the best experience for our students.   They will build strong bonds of friendship and receive thorough preparation for their future lives.

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Boarding School: Pros And Cons

In General by Think Student Editor August 14, 2022 Leave a Comment

Going to a boarding school may seem like a great adventure! You get to live away from your parents and are with your friends all day, every day. This may seem amazing to some students whilst others might focus on the negatives of this, such as missing your parents too much. For this reason, it is important to familiarise yourself with the pros and cons of boarding school. This will allow you to make a well-informed decision.

If you want to see the benefits of boarding school alongside the costs and the difference between boarding and regular schools, read on.

Table of Contents

What are the benefits of attending a boarding school?

One of the main benefits of attending a boarding school is that the experience makes you independent. This is because you are less reliant on your family. A boarding school is different to other schools because you stay there permanently throughout each school term. Usually, you stay in a dormitory with other students who also attend the school.

Therefore, you see your family less often. More information on this can be found on the Think Student website if you click here alongside the proper definition of a boarding school.

There are plenty of benefits to attending a boarding school. The main ones are outlined here:

• The facilities – Boarding schools usually have extensive facilities on site, with everything you could ever ask for. For example, large libraries, gyms and even theatres!
• Friendship – You could gain a real sense of belonging whilst attending a boarding school. Everyone will know each other, and you are less likely to feel like an outsider when everyone lives together.
• Extra academic help – Being at school all the time allows you to speak with teachers more often, including weekends. This could therefore enhance your academic ability.
• High quality education – You can be certain that you will receive a stable education when attending boarding school. You may also want to attend because your home environment and local schools are not providing the best possible education.
• Independence – Going to a boarding school increases your sense of responsibility. Most teenagers only discover this in university or after leaving home permanently. However, boarding school can give you a head start on this.

As you can see, there are lots of benefits! What you gain at boarding school will benefit you long-term and at various points throughout your life.

What are the costs of attending a boarding school?

It’s easy to get caught up in all the positives of a boarding school. You may be likening the idea to books and films you have seen of pupils in boarding school. Everything may seem perfect in pop culture, but this is not always the case. You also need to be fully aware of the disadvantages. However, it is up to you to decide whether these costs listed below outweigh the benefits or not:

• The tuition fees – If you attend a boarding school, you live there and only go home during the holidays. However, some students do go home on the weekends. Either way, the tuition fees are very expensive! You need to be aware that attending a boarding school could potentially damage your parent’s pockets. You can read more about the costs of boarding school in this article .
• Homesickness – Being away from your family is seen as a positive for some people because it forces you to become independent. However, some pupils cannot deal with being separated from their families.
• Finding a work-life balance – There isn’t a clear separation between school and leisure when you live on-site. You may still have to stick to the school rules even outside lessons and on weekends. It can feel like you are under school regulations all the time, which frustrating for some students.
• Friendship issues – Bullying can also be a problem. You will be with the same people twenty-four seven, making it hard to avoid the students you don’t get along You won’t have the sanctuary of your home to go back to every evening.

Make sure that you consider these costs when deciding whether to go to boarding school. You may think that being away from your parents is your dream . However, homesickness catches some people off guard, and it can be devastating.

What is the main benefit and main cost of attending a boarding school?

The main cost and benefit of attending boarding school depends on your own priorities. However, the most prominent benefit is the volume of opportunities that this type of school can offer. Something like this benefits everyone, no matter their priorities, and cannot be ignored.

The teachers in boarding schools often have very high standards and are experts in their fields. This means you can be sure that you are getting the best quality education. On top of this, you will have extra support as compared to state schools from both friends and teachers.

Spending all your time with other pupils in the school will force you to be confident and make friends. It gives you the opportunity to bond and make friends for life, which is a benefit in itself. Boarding school can be quite stressful, so having supportive friends is essential. You will go through major life events together, your lows, highs and most importantly, exams.

However, you also need to be aware of the main cost. You may be thinking that boarding schools can set you up socially for life. Unfortunately, you should also acknowledge the fact that attending a boarding school sometimes prevents you from forming friendships outside school. For this reason, lots of students are actually quite lonely when they leave.

The issue of bullying is also a major drawback. You may be unable to escape anyone who is mean to you at a boarding school. In some cases, this can have a serious impact on your mental health. If you are worried about bullying or are experiencing it, please check out this article on Think Student. This provides tips and support if you’re in a tricky situation.

Are boarding schools better than day schools?

As you probably already know, there are many different types of school. Comprehensive schools are the most common in the UK. Also known as “state”, these schools involve pupils coming in for about six hours a day, five days a week. Anybody can go to these schools, and they are completely free. More information about comprehensive schools can be found on Think Student if you click here .

As you already know, boarding schools require their pupils to stay at school for the whole term. In theory, this means pupils are being educated all the time and so should receive a higher quality of education.

A pupil who goes to a boarding school is more likely to learn important lessons outside of the classroom. For example, they will gain a sense of discipline and punctuality. They also have more of a chance to get involved with extracurricular activities and sports.

Therefore, by going to boarding school, you are more likely to become self-reliant and well-educated. In normal schools, the time with teachers is limited to the school day. Pupils can only be taught academic lessons and won’t receive the real-world lessons that boarding schools can provide.

Are boarding schools worse than day schools?

Boarding schools may provide a more well-rounded education; however, this is not always a positive feature. In comprehensive and day schools, pupils can go home at the end of the day . At home, they are able to relax and don’t have to constantly be learning all the time. This isn’t always the case with boarding schools.

Sometimes, relaxation and family time should be prioritised over education. With the style boarding schools adopt, they could potentially forget about the importance of down-time . This could result in too much pressure being put onto the pupils, meaning that they never feel fully relaxed.

Exams are stressful enough without the added pressures of boarding school. Your parents may seem annoying at times, but one thing they are fantastic at is giving support. Being away from your parents for too long could therefore have a negative effect on your education.

Of course, teachers at boarding schools will offer as much support as possible and will do an excellent job of it. However, sometimes parents and family members are the only ones who can offer meaningful encouragement.

Do the pros of boarding school outweigh the costs?

There are so many positives to boarding school. Each school tries to make every student feel as if they are at home. You will have access to all the facilities and, depending on the school, possibly even a private mentor who you can talk to.

While at boarding school you are still given your own private space, despite constantly being surrounded by others. You will meet lots of different people from varying backgrounds, as with state school. Boarding schools may appear to be sheltered but they prepare pupils for the real world just as well as other schools do.

The only two negatives are being away from parents and the possibility of bullying. If you can contact your parents regularly and see them in the holidays, then homesickness shouldn’t be a problem.

Bullying is a more complicated issue but can be reduced by telling your mentor or teachers. They will then be able to keep a close eye on you and your bullies, stepping in to help if needed. It is a common problem, whether in boarding school or not. The issue will not be avoided by simply choosing to attend a state school.

If you can fully embrace the positives of boarding school, then attending one would be a fabulous, once in a lifetime experience. Therefore, the pros of boarding school definitely have the potential to outweigh the costs. However, make sure you consider what you weigh up your own priorities as well.

Is it worth going to boarding school?

Your choice about whether you should go to boarding school depends on a range of factors. The first thing you should consider is whether you can cope being away from your family for an extended period. Family is important and being away from them for a long time can be difficult.

Don’t be ashamed if you think that boarding school would be too hard because of this factor. Going to boarding school whilst suffering with homesickness and missing your parents would not be an enjoyable experience. You should prioritise your own happiness over your education.

Make sure that you know how much boarding school will cost . This is a major deal-breaker, as it can be very expensive. Ask your parents if you can actually afford to go. You don’t want to get too excited before realising it’s too expensive.

Most pupils go to boarding school because their parents have very demanding careers. This means there are no adults to supervise them properly and give them the attention they deserve. If this sounds like you, then boarding school is a great option!

Check out this article from UKboardingschools.com. They give a comprehensive explanation on why boarding schools can be really beneficial.

You have now discovered all the major pros and cons of attending a boarding school. This means that you can make your own informed decision about whether you should go or not. Remember, it is completely your choice. If you do not want to attend a boarding school, there are other options.

Just make sure you weigh up the costs and benefits of whatever you wish to do. That way, you will be able to make the best decision for you. Good luck!

To some people, the term ‘boarding school’ brings a perception of a place of punishment for naughty children. But, in most cases, this perception is certainly not a reality, as this experience can offer many advantages to the education of a child.

Just like when you are selecting the best school for your child, there are many factors to consider when deciding if boarding school is the way to go and then selecting the best boarding for your child. It’s always best to weigh up the advantages and the disadvantages before making a decision.

At Crawford International, we know a lot about private boarding schools for girls as well as boys because we have one of the best in the country - Crawford International North Coast in KZN. We are very proud of our private boarding facilities and we pride ourselves on the many benefits it can bring your child. It is because of this experience we feel we can advise you on some considerations you need to make, to help you with a boarding school decision.

When considering boarding school, sit together with your child to establish the ‘why’. Why does your child want to go to boarding school? Why do you think boarding school will benefit them? It’s never easy leaving the nest but being in a supported and nurtured environment, boarding school can introduce a child to independence and responsibility, giving them that step up in the world. If opting for boarding school is for the right reasons, it can be an amazing experience.

The Good and Bad

A boarding school is an effective way to instil core values like teamwork, integrity, respect, diligence and a caring spirit. These are some of the positive aspects. On the other hand, it can cause homesickness and it can be challenging for your child to blend in and adjust to their new environment. But, often these negative feelings are just part of the adjustment phase and in the long run resident students end up studying, living and playing together while building a strong community of life-long friends.

Regimented Lifestyle

There is a myth that boarding school is an extremely strict and suffocating environment but this is not true! Boarding boys and girls do live a more structured and disciplined life, yes, but the scheduled study times, meal times and activities do help children that thrive on this type of discipline to operate at their optimum. And while there is a lot of discipline there is also a lot of free time for them to be themselves and to have fun.

Learning Focus

It is a fact that boarding schools instil intellectual stimulation without distraction. At a boarding school, children are acknowledged and nurtured for their academic ability which drives students to be highly motivated to succeed. Boarding schools also allow for a distraction-free zone, clear of home chores, family interruptions, gaming, sibling rivalry and television. It also gives students access to other facilities such as laboratories and innovation hubs, and also access to extended training like extra coaching and focused extra school lessons. At a boarding school, students feel more engaged and secure in their learning environment. 

Social Confidence

Children in boarding schools are more independent and often have more confidence to tackle social situations and engage with their peers and older members of society. There are also more leadership roles available at boarding school, so more children have the opportunity to fulfil leadership roles making them stronger, more resilient and steadfast individuals. Confidence ultimately leads to things like good people management, networking, selling and relationship-building – skills that are invaluable in life.

In recent times, experts say that boarding schools have become so popular and are now being seen as one of the best systems to bring up a child academically. If you want your child to be fully immersed in an educational environment, a boarding school has a lot to offer and is well worth investigating. 

Crawford International North Coast

Crawford International North Coast is your boarding school of choice, in Kwa-Zulu Natal. This boarding school was established in 1998 and embraces the challenge of nurturing individuals’ talents and strengths while developing character, academic excellence, leadership, social responsibility and physical wellness. Learn more.

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Advantages and Disadvantages of sending your child to a Boarding School

May 23, 2022 By 5bestincity in Boarding School , Education 4 Comments Tags: Advantages and Disadvantages of Boarding School , Boarding School

In our childhood, our parents have often told us that they would send us to boarding schools if we did not behave. However, what is a boarding school? Is it unpleasant or hard to go there? Well, there are both positive and negative opinions about the advantages and disadvantages of Boarding School.

Today, let us discuss some of the advantages and disadvantages of sending your children to a Boarding School:

Advantages of Sending Your Child to a Boarding School

Here are some of the advantages of sending your child to a boarding school:

1. Children Learn to be Independent 

Boarding Schools are the perfect place to learn self-reliance. These schools have strict rules and regulations that every student has to follow. So, it becomes normal for children to do their chores, like checking if their school uniforms are clean, organizing their bookshelf, and more. They learn to solve their daily problems themselves, which helps them in their future.

2. Boarding School Helps to Build Confidence

It has been often observed that persons who went to boarding schools in their childhood have more confidence than those who did not. The reason behind it is simple. The boarding children do a thing, whether it is small or big, at an early age. It helps them to gain more confidence in their abilities.

Boarding schools let children do many activities like social service, art, drama, and others. So that they can find their passion and boost their spirit. In addition to that, your child will meet with hundreds of other children and learn to socialize.

3. Children get Accustomed to Discipline

Discipline plays a major role in a Boarding School. The mealtimes, study times even sleep times are constant. So, the students live a restrained lifestyle. They learn to value the time that helps them to achieve their goals.

4. Children live a Standard Lifestyle

In boarding schools, each student has to live in the same quarters. Even though some schools have single rooms for children, most do not. So, students have to share the spaces with other children. Many children also receive a certain amount of allowance. This helps students understand the fundamental value of life where one’s social status is trivial.

5. Boarding School helps to Improve Academic Skill 

Another significant factor of Boarding School’s focus is education. Since the children live on the campus, they can ask teachers for help anytime. Apart from that, the school also helps students with their doubts.

Disadvantages of Sending Your Kid to a Boarding School

Sending your children to a boarding school has many advantages, but there are also several disadvantages: 

1. Children often become Homesick

It is not easy for children to live alone without their families. Even though there are many children of the same age, a child will still feel homesick.

2. Children sometimes find it difficult to Blend In

It is not easy for a child to make new friends in an unknown place. So, your child may feel lonely and think they do not fit in. Although some children can easily blend in with the crowds, it can become difficult for some.

3. Children face problems in Adjusting

Adjusting to a new environment can be difficult for children. For many children living with other student become challenging. Apart from that, since the children live far away from home, they sometimes find it hard to reconnect with their family members.

4. Children become shy of the Opposite Gender

There are many boarding schools only for girls or boys. Living with the same gender for many years, these children find it hard to connect with the opposite gender, Although, in today’s age, there are several co-ed institutions, so that might not be a problem anymore.

5. Children occasionally Suffer from Stress

Boarding life can become stressful with daily classes and routine life. Apart from that, the pressure of parents’ expectations and strict regulations forces the children to forget the things they love. Sometimes they also suffer from bullying without no one to support them.

Choosing a Best Boarding School in 7 Easy Steps

A hyper active with reasonable IQ should be sent to a boarding school??

Its difficult to suggest you over internet. But You should consult with your counselor. Few boarding schools have expertise in handling ADHD Kids (Attention deficit hyperactive disorder).

It is an informative blog and you have covered all the important points regarding the benefits and disadvantages of sending children to boarding school. After Reading this blog parents will think about all the aspects and will take decisions accordingly.

Nice Post! If you are a parent and want to enroll your daughter in the best residential school in India, then look no further than MIS India’s all-girl boarding school. We are ranked as one of the best residential schools in India and the leader in pastoral care. We offer the best experience for your girl to learn and grow in a friendly atmosphere.

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