The importance of health and wellbeing in boarding life
Categories: Teachers Blogs, Boarding
Over the last decade, wellbeing in education has received much attention and publicity. This article reflects on what it means to be ‘happy’ and how we encourage that sense of self-worth. In a school setting, especially one which involves boarding.
What it means to be ‘happy’
Over the last decade, wellbeing in education has received much attention and publicity. The evolution of mobile phone technology, combined with the recent Coronavirus pandemic, has challenged societies and cultures in an unprecedented fashion. This has provided us all with an opportunity to reflect on what it means to be ‘happy’ and how we encourage that sense of self-worth. In a school setting, especially one which involves boarding, these issues have been at the forefront of discussion.
Wellbeing underpins the way we do things
The Royal School does not see wellbeing as something to compartmentalise or a one-off lesson to integrate. Wellbeing underpins the way we do things here. Our young people know that our role as staff is to facilitate their sense of self-respect, self-understanding, self-awareness and self-belief.
To do this, we listen. We provide the space for our pupils to have a voice. We believe very strongly in family, community spirit and team building. In school, we recognise and appreciate our students for who they are.
Structure, clear boundaries, warmth and a sense of fun
Expectations and boundaries are high and clear – our young people know that they belong, understand the importance of our school values, and learn how to look after themselves and one another. They know this because our staff are excellent role models. All of this adds to an inclusive feel, where our young people can learn, have fun and enjoy routine in a calm and stable environment.
It is the little details that make all the difference
The Head of Boarding, Mrs Bartlett-Rawlings has over 30 years of experience in the education sector. She thinks it is the little details that make all the difference! On Chinese New Year every boarder was woken up with a rose and a beautifully decorated boarding house. A wonderful surprise to some boarders’ whose first love is basketball were tickets to a Surrey Scorchers game. A room was converted into an art studio as a creative space for a talented art student who was getting behind in his coursework, a hot chocolate brimming with marshmallows for a pupil who missed mum in the first days in the house. Every pupil is greeted on their first night with a flower and a card and their parents are given daily snippets and photos until they are well settled. The list is endless of small things that make a difference in how we feel!
One school, one happy community
Day students and staff are still very much a part of the boarding community. The Head of Boarding’s infectious enthusiasm permeates the school, creating a keenness for staff to be involved in our programme of weekend events, sporting opportunities and cultural immersion. Our students understand the importance of completing prep on time and to the best of their abilities, but they also know that downtime and relaxing are important too.
Freedom to make choices
Having the freedom to make choices is paramount for our young people to grow. It aids their sense of independence and where their mental or physical health might take a knock, we have a wide range of people pupils know they can go to for help.
Boarding at The Royal is fantastic; you can interact with students from different year groups and nationalities. There is always someone to talk to and be there for you.
Year 8 Boarder
Find out more about boarding at The Royal School, email - admissions@royal.surrey.sch.uk