Boarding Update
How Boarding has Changed over the Years
One of the main messages I wish to share with all current and future members of the Shore Boarding Community is that the modern experience of boarding school life is very different from what it used to be. It struck me recently how outdated the public’s perception of boarding schools can be. I had a conversation during which someone mentioned the old threat, “If you don’t behave yourself, I’ll send you off to boarding school.” And it hit home that while this inaccurate perception still lingers, it couldn’t be further from the truth.
Now, whenever I talk to both current and prospective parents and their children, I ask them to walk me through a typical day. They find that their day-to-day activities—waking up, showering, eating breakfast, attending class, participating in sports, having dinner, doing homework, and going to bed—are remarkably like what one would experience in a boarding school. The key difference is that here, they get to share these moments with their mates, day in and day out. Essentially, it’s their normal routine but enriched with a sense of community and camaraderie.
When it comes to rules and structure, we’re not running a free-for-all. There’s discipline, but it’s the same kind you’d find in any home. If you don’t do your chores at home, your parents will get grumpy with you, right? We hold students accountable, but we do it within an environment that’s as close to a ‘home away from home’ as we can make it. When managing a group as large as 165 boys – that’s no small feat. Yet, we’re committed to making it work through structured activities, kindness, discipline and robust support systems, all geared toward the students’ wellbeing.
While most students thrive in this setting, we understand that it’s not for everyone. And that’s perfectly okay. We’re not in the business of convincing anyone that they must enrol their child in a boarding school. If a student wants to be here, fantastic—let’s make it happen.
In summary, the boarding school of today is a far cry from its historical reputation. It’s an environment filled with kindness, support, and a myriad of activities aimed at comprehensive development, both inside and outside the classroom. So, if there’s one message I’d want to emphasise, it’s this: modern boarding schools are not what they used to be—they’ve evolved into nurturing, enriching communities where most students don’t just survive; they thrive. As boarding educators, we must actively work to dispel the myth and negative narrative surrounding boarding school, as the promise and positivity it holds are large.
Week 8 Wrap
A few boys headed out to Ravenswood on Friday night with Hodges House to take on the heavily choreographed Ravenswood team in a lip sync battle. We have some work to do, boys! Those who stayed in on Saturday night got stuck into a Mr Lane inspired butter chicken recipe, which turned out to be a massive hit. Then it was off to the Inter-house Trivia Competition with the team of Jack H, Sam A, Louis C, Gideon KP, Digby H, Oli G and Will J, storming home with the win by a single point! Great fun was had by all. The beautiful weather on Sunday called for a BBQ lunch with some scotch fillet steaks and sausages after a bit of touch footy on the oval.
Although the calendar will tell you there is no formal School Sport at the moment, it hasn’t stopped some of the boys from getting involved. The Rowers are back out on the water with a number of Robson Boys representing. Adam A has begun his 2023 basketball campaign with the exciting news of being selected in the 2nds. A great achievement.
A huge shout out to Atip N, who was awarded the Bronze Medal for 3rd Place in his Taekwondo Division…a great performance all season from Atip.
Spotlight on Hugo
I have been at Shore since Year 9, when I arrived from Kinross-Wolaroi School in Orange, NSW. From a very young age, I have always had a big interest in every aspect of boating and what it has to offer; I have grown up around boats due to a shared interest with my dad. From the moment I was strong enough to hold a rod and tall enough to see over the bow of the boat (without standing on a chair), I have always thoroughly enjoyed every experience I have ever had on a boat, even if the weather is bad. Recently, I got an early entry offer from the University of Tasmania to study Nautical Science. After I have finished this course, I hope to find an opportunity to become a captain on a large vessel. The motivation for me pursuing this career comes from my growing up around boats – my whole family have always been into boating, so it came naturally to me.
I have faced one main challenge along the way in finalising my choice of career – when I first started to consider the idea, the main issue that I faced was a lack of information about the industry and how to get into it. Thankfully, I have some family friends who are in the industry, and they were able to educate me about it – I am seriously thankful for them, and I am really looking forward to pursuing this career.
When I first started Boarding back in Year 9, I didn’t always do the right thing. I gave my teachers and the staff here a pretty hard time every now and then. It is really satisfying now to have overcome that little black spot in my boarding journey, and it proves that with a bit of hard work, a clear goal and lots of determination, anyone can achieve great things.
Hugo J
Year 12
Ravenswood vs Shore LipSync Battle
Friday evening, the annual LipSync Battle was held between Ravenswood and Shore. The evening was a captivating showcase of talent, creativity, and sheer enthusiasm as boarders from both Houses competed to be the ultimate LipSync performer.
This year was Ravenswood’s turn to host, and they certainly made every effort to make us feel welcome, right down to the billboard sign welcoming Hodges House as we entered the School.
The evening started with trivia in year groups and was followed by a BBQ dinner. Both provide great opportunities to meet and engage with our would-be LipSync opponents.
Special thanks to Ravenswood staff and girls for making the evening a wonderful success. Thank you also to all the Shore boys for their attendance and spirited performances. Well done.
If you are interested in weekly Boarding, please contact Director of Boarding, Mr Roland directly at boarding@shore.nsw.edu.au.