Boarding Structure
Our Boarding Village
Boarding House Structure
The Boarding Village consists of one Junior House (Years 7 and 8) and three Senior Houses (Years 9 to 12). This structure blends the best components of both horizontal and vertical boarding models.
We provide additional support for our youngest boarders for most of their journey before they move to their respective senior houses.
We recognise that it isn't just Year 7 boys who need dedicated support. By keeping our Year 8 boys in the Junior House, we can focus on their specific needs before placing them in an environment that caters to boys aged 14 to 18.
Our unique Boarding Village model sees all our boarding houses together in one central precinct with a communal greenspace and BBQ area. This layout keeps the boarding community united and encourages them to spend time together, regardless of which house they are placed in.
Academic Support
Boarding provides an academic advantage. Our program supports, challenges, and extends the boys through a structured approach, along with the help of teaching staff, external tutors, and their peers.
Year 7 and 8
- Allocated Academic Coordinator for O'Brien House
- Additional tutors in each study room, making a ratio of 1/10
- Literacy and Numeracy focus to accelerate boarders and reduce deficits
- Nightly study grades to monitor application and effort
- Data analytics tracking boarders against national averages and continuing Day Boy cohort
Year 9-12
- Allocated Senior Academic Coordinator
- Subject-specific tutoring
- Access to skills and training facilities
- Subject masterclasses during assessment periods
- Structured programs for 'exam blocks'
- Nightly study grades to monitor application and effort
- Access to the library
- Nightly silent reading for Year 9 boys
Transition to Boarding
We are deeply honoured that families entrust us with the growth and formation of their sons. We understand that transitioning to boarding school can be a daunting period for both the boys and their families, who often make profound sacrifices to grant their sons the opportunities that boarding provides.
Feeling unsettled or experiencing homesickness is normal and can happen at any point in the boarding journey. Our staff will always be available to support you and your son through all the highs and lows of this experience. Maintaining open communication between home and school allows us to provide a strong network of care for your son when you cannot be here. Some practical steps that we take to help settle your son into boarding are:
- New Boarders’ Sleepover: In November, the year before they start, all new boarders will come for a sleepover in the Boarding House and have a chance to meet the other boys who will be starting with them.
- Buddy Program: Each boy will be allocated a buddy who will help them settle in and become a familiar face around the Boarding Village. Our Year 7s in particular are allocated a Year 12 buddy, and we have regular BBQs and activities together to build their relationship.
- No leave the first weekend of term: A weekend full of activities with their full year level cohorts and boarding houses. A great chance to get to know each other and form friendships.
