With a strong network of experienced staff and a fun, engaging induction programme, pupils’ wellbeing sits at the heart of the boarding experience at Warwick School.
Living away from home is a big change for any young person but our boarding structure is designed to ensure that every pupil feels settled, supported and confident.
Pastoral care is central to boarding life at Warwick School, and we take our responsibility for every pupil seriously. Our dedicated boarding team leads the school’s boarding-specific pastoral system, supported by teachers and specialist staff who are highly experienced in working with young people and understanding the unique needs of boarders.
Boarders may face many of the same challenges as day pupils, as well as situations specific to living away from home. Our boarding staff work closely with the wider pastoral team to guide, support and reassure pupils whenever needed.
Settling in life at Warwick
New boarders benefit from a carefully designed induction programme, which begins before they arrive on campus.
Each new boarding family receives information and advice about the boarding house, school, and boarding life in Warwick. In the run up to the start of the academic year in September, we host several Teams meetings hosted by the House Parents and some senior boarders, providing an opportunity for new pupils to ask staff and current boarders any questions they may have.
When pupils arrive in Warwick in September, the induction last for several days and includes:
- Tours of the school from boarding buddies
- Team building exercises with the new and returning boarders working together
- Guided tours of the surrounding area, including Warwick town and nearby Leamington Spa
Considerable support is given to new boarders as they adjust to studying and, for many, living and learning in a new foreign country. We make every effort to help them settle very quickly into life away from home.
Boarders form friendships that last a lifetime and develop the values, skills and good habits that prepare them for adulthood. By following guided routines for homework, meals and bedtimes the pupils learn to organise their time and thrive in this busy school where so many events and activities go on into the evenings and weekends.
Our specialist tutor team spends quality time with the pupils throughout the week providing friendly support, academic advice and a listening ear for those times when things aren’t perhaps going so well. Our Matron and housekeeping staff play a crucial role in providing a genuinely warm, comfortable and welcoming environment for the boarders.
Medical support
Upon arrival, all boarding pupils complete a detailed questionnaire about their health with pupils who regularly take medication are assessed and supported to ensure it is managed appropriately.
The school has a medical centre, staffed by qualified nursing staff, for when boys are unwell or need attention to ensure the very best of care.
All boarding pupils are registered with the local GP and are entitled to receive treatment for any issues whilst they are here in the UK. GP appointments can be arranged as required by the House staff and where necessary boarders are accompanied to these by staff. Ophthalmic and dental treatment is also arranged as required.
Communication with home
We encourage regular contact home and with the advent of modern technology this is very easy for them to do.
Parents can contact boarding staff, either by phone or email, at any time should they have any concerns about any aspect of their child’s life here.
Guardians
All international pupils are required to have a UK based Guardian, preferably one who lives close to the schools, who are another source of support for the pupils. Guardians are required to be available to host the pupil in emergency situations and during holidays if they are not returning home.
Guardians can be members of the pupil’s family or friends of the family. If there is no one suitable to fill the role then parents should refer to one of the AEGIS accredited Guardian Agencies that are available to international pupils.
AEGIS is the only independent organisation in the UK that provides a rigorous accreditation and inspection process for guardianship providers. All AEGIS-accredited guardianship organisations undergo a comprehensive review of their student care, safeguarding standards, and operational practices. To find out more, please visit Parents & Agents | AEGIS
