Houses. The aim, says Darrell, is to recognise boys in Years 9–12 who demonstrate College virtues and character strengths, and those in Year 13 who demonstrate the attributes of the ideal College graduate. The second area of focus is on the development of a Year 11 and 12 programme to help boarders grow their mentoring and leadership skills. “While we have made huge steps in the past few years in terms of fostering positive relationships between our senior and junior boarders, this programme will provide support and skills for the boys as they head into their senior years and take on responsibility within the boarding Houses,” says Darrell. The third area of focus is on the provision of continual professional learning opportunities for boarding House staff. “This year we have implemented education sessions for all our boarding staff – from Housemasters to House tutors. The world in which our teenage boys operate is forever changing and it’s important our boarding staff are updated on the latest trends and have access to professional learning in areas like social media, pornography, substance use, internationalism, mental health, the restorative justice process, staff wellbeing, and how to help and encourage the boys to make the correct decisions.” “ We want to make sure the boarding experience for all the boys is helping develop them in their journey through adolescence. ” Darrell Thatcher
College Issue 38 2020
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