Parents' Guide to Boarding

2 + WELCOME TO BOARDING AT ABINGDON We believe that the boys and staff work together to create a positive, happy community. This handbook, written by the boarding housemasters, is designed to tell you briefly about boarding life - how boarders live here, the practicalities of daily living in a boarding community, the importance of communication and an open relationship between the boys, parents, housemasters, tutors and matrons. We very much hope that your son will be happy and thrive in this happy, ‘home from home’ environment. For detailed policies please see our website: http://www.abingdon.org.uk/school_policies/ Boarding at Abingdon and our statement of principles Boarding at Abingdon is at the very heart of the school, its aims, ethos and the quality of relationships that exist between pupils and between pupils and staff. We believe that the boys and staff work together to create a positive, happy community in which everyone feels comfortable and has an important part to play. At Abingdon we aim to: ● develop each boy, encourage him in all that he does and support him in an environment that is safe and secure. ● ensure that every boarder can live in a community where relationships with others (boys and staff) are respectful, tolerant and positive. ● celebrate and encourage the individuality of those in our boarding community, encouraging each to achieve their potential and discover new horizons. ● communicate with boarding parents and guardians effectively and honestly, trusting in a collaborative partnership for the benefit of boarders in our care. Boarding as a teenager brings with it all the hopes and expectations of boys growing up to be young men, ready for university and whatever life has to offer. Along the way, there will inevitably be times of anxiety, concern and difficulty as well as times of real celebration and happiness. Supported by a highly experienced team of tutors, matrons, the Chaplaincy, Counsellor and Health Centre doctor and nurses, we aim to offer the support, care and personal attention to every boy in our houses so that they genuinely look back on a very special, and successful time as boarders. We encourage you, as parents, to develop a close dialogue with us, and to always feel that you can contact us at any time. New Boarders induction A thorough induction programme is arranged for all new boarders at the start of the Michaelmas Term in September. The timetable, daily and weekend routine, school layout, medical, spiritual and uniform matters will all be covered, as will a trip to Oxford using public transport during the first weekend. We ask that full-time boarders and, if possible, weekly boarders stay in on that weekend as we plan exciting ‘bonding’ activities. As part of our peer support programme, every boy will be paired with a ‘mentor’, usually a sixth-form boy who will, over the days, weeks and months ahead, be there to support and assist your son as he starts to settle into life as a boarder.