ABOUT BOARDING HOUSES
Notes about boarding houses
Usually students share rooms with other students in lower years but in most schools will have their own room in the final years. Rooms normally consist of a bed, a wardrobe, some storage space and a desk for each student. Some have private bathrooms, whereas others are shared with other students.
In addition to addressing boarders’ physical needs and their requirements for security and safety, each House seeks to contribute to its pupils’ development in terms of their confidence, self-esteem and self-awareness.
Moving to a boarding school for the first time is a big step in any student’s life and is an experience that will likely trigger both excitement and fear. For parents too, it is a period that is filled with uncertainty, unsure how their child will get on and, of course, the wrench of leaving your child for the first time. For the most part, students find boarding school very rewarding, and it stands them in good stead for the rest of their lives. However, the majority of students do encounter a few teething problems at the beginning.
Some challenges of boarding houses in Ghana
Homesickness:
The most common problem, and one which is experienced by almost every student, is homesickness. From a professional point of view, going to boarding school is often referred to as a “planned separation” as both parents and child know that the event is coming. Of course, for some pupils, this is relatively mild and passes after a few days, while for others, it is something that can present itself immediately or take some days, even weeks to come to the fore.Struggling to make new friends:
Some students are naturally more outgoing than others. For those would are shy and introverted, making new friends can be quite tricky. New friendships must be made quickly as it helps to overcome homesickness and makes the students more comfortable in their new surroundings. There will be opportunities to make friends during school time, in dorms as well as during the extracurricular activities that are arranged.Issues with personal belongings and money:
It is quite common for students to have never had to worry about personal belongings or money before. However, we believe that taking pride in your belongings, your personal space and appreciating the value of money is vital, and it is something which we teach all of our borders. Pupils will be responsible for their own laundry.Poor sorroundings:
It has been noticed over the years that most boarding houses in Ghana lack condusive environment that will enable students to live comfortably.Bed bugs:
It has also been noticed that most boarding houses in Ghana are been affected with the spread of isects, most specifically bed bugs that will enable students to live comfortably. Students stay awake during bed time because of the operations of the bed bugs.
AIMS OF BOARDING HOUSE
- To develop the whole person, and prepare each boarder for their future life beyond school.
- To develop an open and trusting culture in which boarders are confident that they will be treated with respect, as well as introducing new members of the community with kindness and sensitivity, regardless of age and background.
- To create an atmosphere of cooperation, tolerance, kindness, compassion and trust in which any form of bullying cannot flourish.
- To develop boarders’ qualities of leadership and the ability to work as part of a team, as well as to make a positive contribution to the school, the local community and wider society.
- To provide a range of experiences and opportunities under conditions that will encourage the cultural, social and personal development of each boarder. In particular to ensure these opportunities are available at weekends.
Conclusion
There is a lot to consider when refreshing or building a new boarding house. Have a look at our tips to help you create the perfect space for your students.