TOM DAVIDSON 2019 Head of Boarding
I believe that Boarding is the heart of Christ’s College and this is reflected by how boarders contribute to all areas of College life.
9s as they transition into College boarding life. I’m from North Canterbury and although I was a dayboy in Flower’s House during Year 9, I was excited to become a boarder in Year 10 and have loved it ever since. I am into basketball and love being involved in College drama productions. What first struck me with College boarding and continues to even entering any of the three boarding Houses. There are moments and conversations that genuinely feel like you are with family, the clichéd “home away from home”. But nothing could be more true of College boarding. This homeliness is not forced or contrived, but rather comes naturally from the relationships between staff and boys. Often it is the simple and spontaneous things, like a House barbecue, a game of touch, or a trip to the pool after prep, that create the best memories. The bonds and friendships formed through boarding are unique and strong, connections we will have for life. I have found the most helpful support comes from the boys themselves and it is inspiring how the boarders will always come together and be there for each other when they need to. Personally, the people I have met have taught me so much and I hope that many will be in my life for years to come. now, is the friendly vibe and homeliness that is felt when
But boarding life definitely has its challenges. Living with 60 other boys makes sure of that! Forming relationships and working through differences provide some of the best learning Character is built and values are realised through such challenges. These learnings correspond with College values such as compassion and stewardship and important virtues such as tolerance, respect and empathy. All of which are key when it comes to living with others. Boarding also teaches you to appreciate diversity as College boarders come from many different backgrounds, countries and cultures. Everyone has a part to play in boarding life and this includes in the House routine, with everyone having jobs to do. Responsibility and freedom increase as boys move up in the school, which is motivating for younger students and rewarding for seniors. The boarding staff are always there to offer both pastoral care and academic support and their help makes school life a whole lot easier. The accessibility which boarding provides enables you to maximise the opportunities available at College, making things like early morning trainings and late night rehearsals easier to manage. and personal development opportunities in school life.
This includes all levels of involvement in arts and culture, sport at every grade, academia and service projects. Boarders are always at College, so this means that much of the culture around the school flows down from them. Constantly being immersed in College life means pride amongst boarders is strong and this is clear to see not only when boarders are representing College, but also in the support they provide with the collective boarding voice being instrumental in cheering on College teams. I would like to build on the good work that others have done before and make boarding the best that it can be. It is my privilege to be Head of Boarding for 2019 and I am really enjoying being part of such a great group of Year 13s, especially as we mentor the Year
College Issue 36 2019
29
Made with FlippingBook HTML5