How Often Do Boarding School Students See Their Parents?
The frequency with which boarding school students see their parents can vary widely depending on several factors, including the specific school's policies, the distance from home, and the family's circumstances. Generally, here are some common arrangements:
Weekends and Holidays
Many boarding schools allow students to go home on weekends, particularly during the school year, and for long weekends. Students typically have breaks for major holidays like Thanksgiving, winter break, and spring break during which they can spend time with their families.
Visiting Days
Some schools have designated visiting days or events where parents are encouraged to visit and participate in school activities. These visiting days provide a structured way for parents to see their children in the school environment and interact with various school activities.
Communication
In between visits, students usually stay in touch with their parents through phone calls, video chats, and messages. Technological advancements have made it easier for students to communicate with their parents, even when they are not at home.
The Evolution of Boarding Schools
The days when boarding meant you packed your child off to school and didn't see them again until the end of term are long gone. Today, the flexibility of boarding arrangements has changed significantly:
Flexi-boarders: Stay in school 1 to 3 nights a week, spending 4 to 6 nights at home, where they presumably see at least one parent. Weekly boarders: Go home every weekend, which allows for regular interaction with their families. Full boarders: Historically, full boarders remained at school for the entire term, but now they go home approximately every 2 to 3 weeks. Fortnightly Boarding: Schools increasingly claim to offer 'full boarding,' but often it means fortnightly boarding (11 nights in school followed by 3 nights at home).Parental Involvement and Technology
Parents are now made far more welcome in school and their child's boarding house than they ever used to be. Schools are more open to allowing parents to visit the school and the boarding houses, fostering a stronger connection between the home and the school environment.
Moreover, the proliferation of technology and video calling apps means that even when students are at school, they can still 'see' their parents as and when they want to do so. This has led to a situation where parents can see their children more frequently online, even if they do not visit in person as often as they would like.
Ultimately, the experience can differ significantly from one student to another, influenced by personal and family situations. While schools have become more flexible and accommodating, the frequency of in-person visits can vary greatly.