What did you like about boarding in SHB and why?

Mrs and Mr Davis and their relationship with the tutors. Mrs Davis is like your mum was used to describe the pupils’ relationship with her.  Mrs Davis was always looking to make things better e.g. Advent calendars, good luck cards, FIFA, air fryer to name a few improvements.

The pupils really liked the tutors especially Mr Durston, Dr Baker and Mr Dawson.  All were described as legends.  They really liked Dr Baker’s jokes!  Mr Watts was also popular. 

What did you not like and how could it be improved?

They liked the rooms but felt the repairs could be quicker especially when it came to the mould.  The mouldy curtains were very unpopular.

The boys were less concerned about cold showers but felt the water pressure was to low.  They were constantly having to hit the button to get water out which was a point of frustration.

The pupils wanted the locks on showers and the toilets to be fixed as a priority.

What makes a good boarding tutor?

A good balance to be had between being a teacher and a guardian.

For the tutor to be interested in them.

To understand the person in their care.

To try and relate to young people and have a bit of ‘banter’ with them.

To understand the difference between boarding and school time.

Always ready to help.

Give me one word to describe the culture in the boarding house.

Community; great; relaxed; quality; inclusive; family.

Do you identify as a boarder?

‘Yes, it’s my home’. They like the structure and being busy. They like the fact they finish school and are home immediately.  They like the access to the facilities especially the gym in their down time.  ‘The commute is amazing’.

‘Structure in the fifth is needed which has helped me become more independent’.

‘With your mates all the time’.

‘I would the senior tutors to chat with us more often like the MS tutors did’.  Pupils understood they were only two weeks in.

As an international student, how would you describe your experience?

‘It feels being part of a big family and everyone is very friendly’.

‘People take time with me’.

‘Always fun’.