BOARDING Evolving boarding brotherhood
It’s a brotherhood and a unique part of College life.
Boarding has been part of Christ’s College from its earliest days. Its recent evolution has seen changes implemented and embedded – from discipline to leave – in a bid to continually improve the boarding experience for both boys and their parents. The positive attitude of all boarding staff in supporting these changes has been a vital component in the success of the process. “At the end of the day we’re trying to continually improve across all facets,” says Director of Boarding Darrell Thatcher. Over the past six months the duty of care for College staff was improved by restructuring staff duties plus the appointment of non- resident tutors, which Darrell calls,
“another set of eyes, another person for the boys to build a relationship with.” “It’s important too, that our staff also represents the same diversity as that of the boys in terms of their backgrounds and interests.” After a trial period in 2018, a new electronic leave system was introduced in Term 1. “It makes it easier for all, saves a lot of time and we’ve got to thank Richards Housemaster Kevin Harris who led the project, which offers a lot of potential for future changes.” Changes to the way prep is carried out were begun in 2018, with Year 9 students completing their prep in the library. From 2019 Year 9 and Year 10 boys are doing their prep in the library, from 6.30–8pm Mondays to Thursdays. With prep tutors on hand to help, this is designed to instil good study habits early.
All the boys who in 2019 call School, Flower’s or Richards Houses their homes, are receiving a standardised and consistent level of care, even while the three Houses maintain their distinctive characteristics and rivalries.
College Issue 36 2019
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