Source: The Value of Dedicated Boarding-Only Staff at International Boarding Schools – ISN
Recent academic attention has focused on boarding school staffing models and their impact on student and staff wellbeing. Boarding schools uniquely take on both academic and personal development roles, acting as both school and home for students—often providing their only stable environment. Central to this are boarding staff, who function like surrogate family members and play a crucial role in students’ daily lives and emotional wellbeing.
Staffing structures vary. Some schools employ boarding-only staff, often young, energetic individuals with interests in sports or the arts. These staff members are present nearly 24/7, fostering deeper, more personal connections with students and creating a strong sense of consistency and trust. However, they must carefully navigate the balance between being friendly and being a friend to avoid favouritism and safeguarding issues.
In contrast, some schools use teachers with boarding responsibilities. While some teachers excel in these roles, engaging meaningfully with students outside the classroom, others may find the additional duties burdensome or use the time for schoolwork, which can limit student interaction. This inconsistency may affect students’ ability to form meaningful relationships with staff.
Ultimately, the continuous presence and dedication of boarding-only staff are seen as crucial to building trust, ensuring student safety, and supporting emotional growth. Their constant involvement helps students feel known, supported, and secure—factors that are vital when far from home.
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