From the Head of Boarding

Attitude is Everything in Boarding Life!

It is our mindset made up of beliefs and feelings that shape our experiences, relationships, and personal growth. For us in our GSG boarding community, attitude isn't simply about being positive or negative around the houses, it defines how we face challenges, connect with each other to navigate school, boarding and life beyond the classroom. 

Boarding life often demands significant adjustments, from living away from family to adapting to a new environment and routine. A positive attitude fosters adaptability, allowing our boarders to embrace change rather than resist it. When faced with challenges, such as homesickness, academic pressures or relationship stress, a resilient attitude helps our younger and older boarders cope effectively and bounce back stronger.

Living on our regional campus at GSG means, as staff and boarders, we are constantly interacting with peers from diverse backgrounds. An inclusive, positive and open attitude is crucial for forming and developing friendships which build a supportive social network. It encourages inclusivity, something we are known for at GSG along with empathy, and respect, leading to a more harmonious living environment. Those who approach social interactions with a positive mindset are more likely to make meaningful connections and feel a sense of belonging.

A positive attitude towards learning can significantly impact academic performance. Regardless of your academic pathway at GSG, students who view challenges as opportunities to grow are more likely to engage actively in their studies, seek help when needed, and persist through difficulties. This can be simply picking up a book to read or using one of the strategies in The Learners Tool Kit for study skills. This mindset not only improves academic outcomes but also fosters a lifelong love for learning.

Boarding life at GSG offers numerous opportunities for our boarders' personal growth, from developing independence to honing leadership skills. A proactive attitude enables our boarders to take full advantage of these opportunities. Embracing responsibility and maintaining a growth mindset are all facilitated by a positive attitude, leading to well-rounded personal development.

Conflicts are inevitable in life! A constructive attitude plays a critical role in resolving disagreements amicably. Those who approach conflicts with a willingness to understand different perspectives and find mutually beneficial solutions contribute to a more peaceful and cooperative living environment.

Maintaining a great attitude is beneficial for mental and physical health by reducing stress, improving coping mechanisms, and enhancing overall well-being. In a boarding environment where students may face various triggers for stress, a great attitude helps maintain balance and promotes a healthier lifestyle.

Boarding schools often thrive on a sense of community and collective responsibility. Our boarders who demonstrate a positive attitude are more likely to contribute to our community, whether through our recreational activities, volunteering, or simply offering support to peers. Their enthusiasm and positive energy can inspire others, creating a more vibrant and supportive boarding community.

So, for me and the team at Great Southern Grammar Boarding, attitude is the cornerstone of a successful and fulfilling regional boarding life experience! It influences how your child adapts to new situations, interacts with others, achieve academic goals, grow personally, resolve conflicts, maintain their health, and contribute to our community. By fostering a positive attitude, your child can maximize their boarding experience, turning challenges into opportunities and building a strong foundation for their future.

Have a great few weeks.

Mr Ashley Keatch | Head of Boarding