5 Things to Look For in a Boarding School Other than Academics

Academic reputation is the first thing that comes to parents' minds when they start looking for a boarding school for their child. All parents prioritise choosing a school that offers high-quality education. However, academics are not the only criterion for selecting a boarding school. Other crucial factors also contribute to the overall development of a child. Before discussing those points, it is essential to understand what boarding schools are. 

What are Boarding Schools?

The word "boarding" implies the lodging and meal facilities. A boarding school is like a second home for students. In these schools, students pursue their studies while living on campus. The boarding school is responsible for the overall well-being of the student. Some of the best boarding schools go beyond academics to provide a well-rounded environment.

Check out the five most essential aspects, apart from excellent academics, to look for in a boarding school that contribute to a child’s overall development.

Diverse Activities Beyond the Classroom

A good academic environment is important for every child. But academics alone are not enough for the all-round development of children. They need a fresh outlook and out-of-the-box thinking. These qualities are nurtured through a variety of activities. Activities like music, drama, debates, etc., develop confidence in students. Also, these activities help improve communication skills and inculcate teamwork in children.

Best boarding schools provide rich extracurricular activities so that students excel in their personal and professional lives. Holistic development through such activities is one of the most important benefits of boarding schools. 

State-of-the-Art Infrastructure And Secure Environment

Any boarding school must have the proper infrastructure. Spacious classrooms, well-equipped libraries, etc. help students thrive in a positive atmosphere. Good infrastructure also enhances the learning experience.

Students must stay in a safe environment when they live away from their homes. Therefore, a reliable boarding school follows all essential security measures. These measures include CCTV surveillance, secure dormitories, and more such measures. 

World-Class Sports Facilities

Sports are a vital part of student life. They inspire physical fitness, teamwork, and discipline. You will always discover good sports facilities at the best boarding schools.

Boarding schools must have the below sports facilities. 

• Indoor stadiums for games like basketball, badminton, and squash

• Outdoor fields for football, cricket, and athletics

• State-of-the-art swimming pools and aquatic complexes

• Gymnasiums and fitness centres

Apart from the above, professional coaches must be available to guide students. Good sports facilities enhance physical well-being. They also teach valuable life skills such as perseverance and goal-setting. The benefits of boarding schools are evident in how they integrate sports into daily life. This integration leads to a healthy balance between academics and enjoyment. 

Lodging Facilities and Comfort at the Boarding School

The living arrangements at a boarding school highly affect a student’s overall experience. Comfortable and well-maintained lodging facilities ensure students feel at home. Here is what you must check in the lodging facilities of the boarding school.

•         Make sure that the dormitories are spacious

•         Ensure bathrooms are clean and hygienic

•         Check whether there is access to recreational areas for relaxation

•         Make sure that there is round-the-clock supervision by trained staff

The quality of lodging facilities is essential for students’ emotional and mental well-being. A supportive environment helps students settle in comfortably and focus on their studies and activities without distractions. This aspect often answers the question of are boarding schools good, as a positive living environment contributes to a productive lifestyle.

Healthy and Nutritious Meals

Nutrition is a critical factor in a child’s growth and development. Boarding schools must prioritise the health of their students by providing well-balanced meals.

A good boarding school ensures:

• Meals are prepared under hygienic conditions

• The menu includes a mix of proteins, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients

• Special dietary requirements are considered

• Snacks and beverages are available to maintain energy levels

Healthy meals contribute to better focus, improved physical health, and emotional stability. Schools that emphasise nutritious food ensure students perform well academically and excel in extracurricular activities.

Additional Aspects to Consider

While the above points are essential, parents may also want to look into the following:

• Cultural Exchange Opportunities

Many boarding schools host students from different parts of the world, fostering cultural diversity and global awareness.

• Community Involvement

Schools that encourage community service or social responsibility help students develop empathy and leadership qualities.

• Qualified Faculty

The presence of well-trained teachers and mentors ensures students receive quality guidance in academics and life skills.

JAIN International Residential School (JIRS) is one of the finest residential schools. Apart from excellent academics, the school offers diverse activities beyond the classroom. It has a safe and secure environment with good infrastructure. The school also offers world-class sports facilities, like the indoor stadium 'SPRINTOOR' and the advanced aquatic complex 'AQUA'. The residential facilities and comfort are well-planned. JIRS prioritises student health by providing healthy and nutritious meals. All these features make JIRS an ideal choice for parents looking for the most promising boarding school.

Conclusion

Apart from considering the aspect of academics, the above-mentioned factors must also be considered for choosing the right boarding school for your child. Remember, extracurricular opportunities, safety measures, sports facilities, living arrangements, and healthy meals are equally important. Hence, parents must evaluate all these points rather than checking just the academic performance of any boarding school. Schools lay a strong foundation for future success. Enrolling in the right boarding school can be a transformative experience for any child. Considering these key aspects, parents can ensure that their child’s journey in boarding school is both enriching and fulfilling. Also, parents who are confused about the answers to the question “why boarding school?, must know that the best boarding schools, like JIRS, offer holistic learning environments and encourage independence in students. 

FAQs

What is the concept of boarding school?

A boarding school is an educational institution where students live and study on campus.

Is boarding school good for your child?

Yes. Boarding schools can be beneficial for children as they offer a holistic learning environment and encourage independence.

Why are boarding schools better?

Boarding schools are better for many families due to their ability to integrate academics with extracurricular activities, sports, and personal development, all within a safe and supportive environment.