Message from the

Director of Boarding

How to Thrive as a Boarder

As we enter the final term of the year, it is always a good time to reflect on what has gone before and for our boarders, the perfect time to reflect on what this year has been like for them. It reminds me of an article I recently read in a BSA magazine which was titled, ‘How to Thrive as a Boarder’, and much of the article is relevant to all our boarders regardless of the fact that it was written many years ago. The article is below…adapted with a slight KWS slant!

Immerse yourself fully in the life of the School. It’s not just about the sport and the social life but it’s also about studying, improving academically and enjoying learning new things whether that be inside or outside of the class room. Make a point of getting involved in all House events and activities as this will help develop and nurture your sense of identity and belonging.

Take advantage of all opportunities. Fill your days and keep busy with the co-curricular activities on offer in both Boarding and the Day School. Go on trips and explore different activities. Fully immerse yourself in the outstanding opportunities on offer: The Cadet programme, The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, Pedal Prix, and Debating to name but a few. Try everything, at least once!

You can be anything you want to be! Ask yourself ‘what do I want to get out of this experience?’ It’s a great opportunity to become more independent, build life-skills, develop leadership opportunities and networking skills. Evolve, create, develop, and grow.

Embrace new things. Boarding food can be tasty, but the meals might not be what you are used to getting at home. Get involved with the food committee (Yes there is one!!), or look to voice your opinions in other ways. Making a positive contribution to the menus can only serve to enhance the experience and give you a sense of ownership of the place.

Kindness, compassion, tolerance and empathy. Strong and successful boarding communities are safe, happy, kind environments, a home from home. How can you add to your community? What actions could you take on a daily basis that would make it stronger? Could you be a role model? Could you offer homework or pastoral peer support, teach a new skill, be a listening ear, a mentor, a buddy - how could you help others?

Friends for life. Make a point of getting to know people. Those who make the effort to connect and talk are always the ones we admire the most. You will find that the more effort you make the more you will get back. It is likely that your KWS friends will be your closest; boarding life is a wonderful opportunity to make friends from all walks of life.

Relaxation and resilience. You will face academic and social challenges. Most boarding houses are well equipped with a variety of stress-releasing activities: yoga, TV, break-out spaces, sport, music, Sunday BBQs, Firepits - all giving you time to ‘be!’ Talk to people - friends, Heads of House, mentors, tutors, the school counsellor, your favourite teacher (we all have one!). Everyone is there to help.

Keep it real. Don’t change your routine. Sleep well, eat well, partake in regular physical exercise and spend time relaxing with friends. Take a walk outside when things get tough. Remember, nothing lasts forever; yesterday is gone, tomorrow is a new day, so live for today and embrace all you do! Carpe Diem!

And finally…….Don’t worry, be happy! Do what makes you happy. Be yourself, and express your own individual character. This is so important in a boarding context; others will always respect you if you’re true to yourself!

I would like to take this opportunity to wish all the boarders and their families the very best for the final term of the year. I hope it is a successful, happy and productive one for you all.

Matt Curran

Director of Boarding