The Top 10 Best Things About Boarding

By Year 9 Boarder

Boarding isn’t just a place where you sleep during term time. It becomes your second home. It’s where you build friendships, learn independence, and make memories you’ll genuinely never forget. Here are the Top 10 best things about boarding (in our opinion!).

1. Sharing a room with the best roommate

Having a roommate means you’re never alone. Whether you’re chatting before bed, laughing over silly things, or supporting each other after a long day, roommates often become like sisters. It’s one of the fastest ways to make strong friendships.

2. Baking and cooking in the kitchen

One of the best parts of boarding is getting to cook and bake together. From cookies and cupcakes to noodles and snacks from home, the kitchen is always full of good smells, great conversations, and lots of laughter (and sometimes a little mess!).

3. Learning practical and necessary life skills

Boarding teaches you real life skills that you’ll need forever, like staying organised, managing your time, doing laundry, keeping your space tidy, and learning independence. These are skills that help you feel confident now and later in life too.

4. Going to the gym and doing exercise

It’s much easier to stay active in boarding because there are so many opportunities for exercise. Going to the gym, joining sports sessions, or working out with friends can be really fun. It’s also great for physical and mental health.

5. A wide variety of activities on weekends

Weekends in boarding are never boring. There are always activities to choose from, including trips out, crafts, games, baking, sports, movie nights, and more. There’s something for everyone, and it helps us relax and enjoy our free time.

6. Playing piano and singing with friends

Music is a huge part of boarding life. Whether someone is playing piano, singing in the common room, or practising for performances, music brings everyone together. It’s one of the best ways to unwind and share talent.

7. Staff members caring about students’ daily life

Boarding staff don’t just supervise. They genuinely care. They check in on how you’re feeling, help you when you’re stressed, support you when you miss home, and celebrate your good days too. It feels reassuring knowing there are adults around who really want the best for you.

8. Celebrating birthdays for boarders

Birthdays are always special in boarding. Even if you’re far from home, boarding makes sure you still feel celebrated, with cake, a present, singing, and lots of birthday wishes. It’s one of the nicest parts of being in the boarding community.

9. Recognising everyone’s achievements

Boarding is a place where success is noticed and celebrated, whether it’s academic progress, kindness, effort, leadership, or improvement. It’s a great feeling when people recognise what you’ve done and encourage you to keep going.

10. Fun competitions to help students stay active

Boarding competitions make everyday life more exciting, such as corridor challenges, team games, step competitions, tidy room awards, and more. They’re fun, bring everyone together, and keep us motivated in a positive way.

Final Thoughts

Boarding is full of moments that become memories, from late night chats to weekend adventures, from cooking together to celebrating achievements. Boarding doesn’t just give you a place to stay. It gives you a community.