Joining a boarding school that caters for both day and boarding students can come with a mix of emotions, excitement and nerves. Starting any new adventure can feel overwhelming, and getting used to a new environment and meeting new people can feel like a challenge. When pupils start at Cheltenham Ladies’ College, they soon embrace new beginnings with the abundance of support and guidance we have in place.
In our recent podcast episode, Charlotte Woodhead, Head of Lower College, highlights that ‘it’s entirely normal to feel homesick’.
“We have lots of events at the start of term to help new students settle in and develop a sense of belonging, and very experienced staff in our boarding houses, because it’s times like bedtime when you really miss a parent, and they’re there to help support you.” – Ms Woodhead
Boarding school allows children with a variety of personalities from a range of diverse backgrounds and cultures to come together and form strong friendships. The mix of their unique experiences allows them to understand and explore the wider world within our nurturing walls.
What I like most about CLC is being able to have an insight into other people’s cultures. I think boarding will change my life in the future by making me more confident and independent in everything I do. - Ugonna (LC1)
Our boarding houses are a home away from home and are a supportive environment for students to sit and relax together.
“[Boarding houses allow the] opportunity for young people to talk and develop friendships, which is really important.” - Ms Woodhead
The most important thing new students should remember is to be themselves.
“The thing that I say to everybody and it's good advice for any of us, is to be your authentic self. Each student that joins us is a gift to our community. We love how unique each one is, and we don't want them to be anything else.” - Ms Woodhead
LC1 student Ugonna thinks there are only three traits a good boarder needs:
“Compassion, independence and confidence” - Ugonna
Meanwhile, top tips from LC1 day girl Aveline include:
“Never be afraid to ask for directions (we’ll always give them)
Bring gloves to sports lessons in winter (I speak from experience)
Always try to be the first to lunch, so you don’t have to wait in line
And finally, go to as many clubs as possible.
You can hear more about starting at CLC by listening to our second podcast episode ‘New Beginnings: Settling into CLC’ with Charlotte Woodhead, Head of Lower College and Wellbeing Co-ordinator.
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