Many schools offer the opportunity to fully or weekly board, but what about a flexi boarding option? We speak to the Head of Luckley House School, Areti Bizior, about the benefits of flexi boarding, which includes reduced travel time, teacher-supported prep, outstanding pastoral care and more.

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Get the best of both worlds

As schools have now adapted to online and blended learning and are embracing new ways of working and living, flexi boarding can offer a best of both worlds’ scenario. As home working and longer days become the new normal, parents should start to consider offering their child the opportunity to board. In an ideal world, pupils should want to board and it should be the goal of any good boarding team to promote an environment which supports and challenges whilst creating a culture of inclusivity.

Improved confidence

Schools and their boarding houses come in many shapes and sizes. Between you and your child’s Headteacher, it is important to find the right school setting for the individual. Each school has their own character and ethos, and this is often true of the boarding houses within them.

Especially during the Autumn term, flexi boarding is high on the agenda and a flexible offer should await all parents whether their child is a seasoned boarder or first timer. Some pupils may feel more confident if they have boarded at prep school but as with any transition or new experience the individual differences within the boarding school market mean that one setting may work for one but not another.

Home away from home

The benefits of flexi boarding will vary from pupil to pupil but at very least, they should feel their boarding experience offers them a home away from home. It provides the opportunity to have downtime and step away from the busy routines when needed, fantastic food, an environment that fosters academic challenge and personal success, interesting activities but most of all, a caring and nurturing environment where pupils feel valued and empowered to get involved.

Peace of mind

Parents feel comfortable in the knowledge that their child is gaining a sense of independence whilst under the watchful eye of an engaged and fostering house team. The right flexi environment will support pupils and their parents to manage their workload so that they do not have to battle with organisation, homework or providing social engagement with peers at home.

Flexi boarding parent of two, aged 12 and 15, says:

“As parents who were new to the concept of flexi boarding, we have found it to be a tremendous resource. With extended days, fixtures, productions, early starts and late finishes flexi boarding has proved invaluable for both child and parents in helping to alleviate time spent commuting that can be better used for homework and study.

In addition, we have seen improved confidence and social skills – the boarders find the experience hugely enjoyable as they have the opportunities to interact with fellow students across all years, this in turns creates a sense of teamwork and camaraderie within the boarding family.

Chris Hill [Head of Boarding] and his team are amazing and are always there to help, they are accessible and in true testament to that our daughter would rather flexi board than stay at home!

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