BOARDING Could you do it?
be independent, easy to get along with and someone who is always keen to have a go at something outside of their comfort zone.” Sam says there’s no doubt that moving straight into boarding life isn’t easy. “But staff, tutors, and students alike all do their part to ensure a seamless transition. House activities at the beginning of the year are pivotal for this, forging a strong and inclusive individual House culture, as well as continuing the positive interaction between the three boarding Houses.” Sam says almost instantly on arrival the new cohort of young boarders is fully integrated in to the boarding atmosphere.
“Older lads are always keen to include them in anything going on and are happy to answer any queries they may have. We keep the boys busy, whether it’s taking part in the boarding programme or an impromptu game of table tennis or pool. This is usually the most effective way to integrate them into boarding life.” The biggest challenge the youngsters face is adapting to living with so many new people, and being forced to develop relationships with some that in other cases they might not gravitate towards. And suddenly, they’re without the steady hand of Mum and Dad!
Boarding is what Christ’s College was once renowned for; and it’s still a very important part of school life for many young men. During the five years they live in one of the three College boarding Houses – School, Richards and Flower’s – boys change from children to young men. And it’s not just physically, says Head of Boarding Sam Averill. “In many cases a boarder will leave in Year 13 completely different from the nervy Year 9 who walked in five years earlier. Not only will they have made mates for life, but they will have developed character skills that will prove necessary at university and years after. They will
Christ’s College Canterbury
08
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator