Blog
Beyond Compliance: Writing a Book While Living the Reality of Boarding Life
Author: Delyth Lynch FTIOB, Director of Safeguarding, Wellington College As I approach the milestone of over three decades working in boarding schools, I find myself reflecting not only on the…
Learning to Live With Others: What a Boarding House Teaches You Without Lessons
I did not board as a pupil, although I always wanted to – probably much to my parents’ confusion at the time. Yet now, having lived and worked in boarding…
Reflections on a Lifetime in Boarding
As I reach the milestone of a 25-year career in boarding, it feels like the right moment to reflect on a lifetime spent within school walls, not just as a…
Creating a Thriving Co-Educational Boarding House: Lessons from School House
What does it take to bring two long-established boys’ and girls’ houses together and create one thriving co-educational community? If it takes a village to raise a child, it certainly…
My Journey as a Boarding Professional
I never set out to become a Head of Boarding. In fact, my career in boarding began almost by accident — as a cleaner in a new junior boarding school…
Working with Teenage Boys, Not Against Them
As I write this, the term has properly begun, with lessons now in full swing after a handful of INSET days and induction for new pupils — the familiar rhythm…
Reflections on My First Year as a Houseparent: Leading and Role Modelling for Young Men
Reflections on My First Year as a Houseparent When I stepped into the role of Houseparent (Sutton House – Lord Wandsworth College), I did so with a clear set of…
Building meaningful connections in boarding
As I enter my 13th year as a House Parent, the start of each year, solidifies the fact that building meaningful connections is my fundamental role. As someone hired exclusively…
Vocational Pathways in Boarding Schools: A Study into the Distinct Roles of Boarding Staff and Teachers
In the educational sphere, the role of boarding staff has often been seen through a lens of functional necessity rather than vocational calling. Traditionally, boarding schools have operated with a…
Over 500 girls in 17 years
Some would say being a Houseparent in a boarding house of 60 teenage girls for 17 years is no easy feat, but I have found it an extremely rewarding one….
