Working From Home

Archie Jackson

I’ve been a weekly boarder since year 7, my family split their time between Freshwater and our farm in Orange.  I found the recent change of school learning initially challenging, but after the first week I felt pretty comfortable.  The home learning process gave me an opportunity to gain more independence in my learning. 

For the last few weeks since school returned I have been a day boy.   It’s been very enjoyable being at home and being around my family.   Though it is very different, the change in routine has been great. 

I am really looking forward to returning to weekly boarding in term 3.  I’ve missed the regular routine and way of life in the boarding house.  The boys and teachers in the house really brightens my boarding experience, the new gym and facilities are also a great privilege to have access to before and after school.

Julia Jackson’s perspective

Having Archie home from weekly boarding during Covid19 was a pretty special time for us as a family.  When Shore closed we moved our whole family to our farm in Orange full time.  Not often do we get a chance to all slow down out there, enjoy the simple things in life and spend some quality time with each other.   I was pleasantly surprised how Archie adapted to the change of school learning and I noticed how he unintentionally kept to some of his morning boarding routine during this home learning period ie:  the alarm was set, he was up and showered and had even made his bed (this doesn’t happen at home on the weekends)!!  I was loving it.

When Shore resumed Arch returned as a day boy for the remainder of term 2.   He’s enjoyed the opportunity to surf before school some mornings, lots of home cooked meals and being able to open the fridge a million times to grab a snack.   I’ve truly loved having him at home.

We’ll miss him when he goes back next term to weekly boarding but given some of his best mates are boarders and that he has great routine & support around homework and study during the week we’re happy.  Plus he now has access to the best gym in the world – he’s very lucky.