The decision to send a child to boarding school is a significant one for parents, and comes with unique considerations.Families from diverse backgrounds and circumstances opt in for various reasons, but are often faced with the challenge of finding the right fit.

In today’s world, there is added pressure on households, with both parents having to work and finding the time to attend to the needs of their children. Some families liveabroad, are residents in a remote area, or have travel commitments due to the nature of their jobs. Parents are increasingly seeking out schools that offer unique experiences and growth opportunities, with distance from where they live not being a deciding factor.

These are a few of the reasons why some parents believe that boarding school is the best educational option for their son or daughter. They trust it will deliver the right opportunities, teach invaluable life skills, and help their child take responsibility for their goals and aspirations.

“Boarding school is a fantastic choice for many of our families and we are seeing it grow into a popular option for many,” expresses David Clark, Head of School at Bridge House in Franschhoek. “It provides a ‘home–away–from–home’ environment that enables children to focus their attention on both their studies and extracurricular activities, whilst fostering independence and confidence in a culturally diverse setting.”

According to the Boarding Schools of Southern Africa Association, boarding schools provide a more structured learning environment that promotes self-discipline and responsibility. In addition, the Association believes that living in a boarding environment also helps students develop strong social and emotional skills, such as resilience, empathy and collaboration.

“The concept of boarding schools has changed over the years, in that they are now better equipped to provide the educational and emotional support that children need to thrive,” explains Clark. “Our boarding staff are well-equipped to nurture the children entrusted into their care,and to provide the necessary pastoral support to ensure a healthy balance between their academic and downtime routines.”

He notes that co-ed boarding schools are emerging as a popular choice for more families that are looking for a well-rounded educational experience for their children.

“Co-ed schools offer a diverse and inclusive learning environment where students from varied backgrounds and perspectives come together,” Clark says. “This better prepares our students for the multicultural world they will enter into as adults and equips them with the social skills necessary to develop healthy relationships in their personal and professional lives.”

“How young people develop, especially during those formative teenage years, is critical for their future success,” he continues. “Consequently, many parents are choosing to send their children to boarding schools where they can develop tenacity and grit, whilst making valuable social connections. A co-educational boarding school model helps to build respect between different genders, allowing for a greater understanding of each other.”

Clark shares some intangible benefits of attending a co-ed boarding school:

South Africa has a long and proud history of public and private boarding schools, some of which are the best in the world. Weighing up the pros and cons of the diverseofferings by schools can be challenging as no two are the same, but with careful consideration, both parents and children can find the right school for their needs.

“Choosing an educational pathway for your child is probably the biggest financial and emotional investment a family will make, and is the most significant legacy to leave your child,” concludes Clark. “A school is much more than a place of learning for a young person; it is an environment that will shape their future.”