Mrs Emily Murray On Boarding in School House

Since joining the boarding community in August 2019, I have come to realise what a cornerstone of Shore this community really is. H aving gained experience as a teacher in the classroom to then moving into boarding, I have witnessed first-hand the importance of clear and effective pastoral care systems, of which Shore offers.  Working alongside housemasters and assistant housemasters on a daily basis, in a residential setting, highlights to me the ever increasing demands that our teenagers are facing in the world today.

Boarding offers another, very significant, dimension into the role of a teacher and mentor.  I feel extremely fortunate to be in this role.  To be entrusted with the care of our boys, but also to be welcomed into the lives of our boarders as they navigate the unpredictable and sometimes stressful times of being an adolescent in the 21st Century.

In 2020, I have been excited to take on a slightly different role in assisting Mr Werner Pienaar with the new Year 7 boarders in School House.  We have run various outings and activities aimed at welcoming the boys to Shore and providing a platform for them to find their own feet in this new territory.  It has been enjoyable to watch the boys find their way in their new home. It is not always easy to learn new structures and it can be difficult to understand what it means to live in a close boarding community.  I have felt privileged to be able to walk them through some new experiences, but also to encourage them to develop their own independence in some circumstances.

I feel honoured to have a small part in it all.