First Week: Boarding Pupils Settle into Their New Home

The first week of boarding is always full of excitement, nerves and new beginnings. For both returning pupils and those joining Ming House for the first time, this week marks the start of a journey filled with growth, friendship and independence.

For our new boarders, the first few days were all about getting to know their new home. The boarding staff and senior pupils made sure every newcomer felt welcome from the moment they arrived. A special orientation session helped new boarders learn about house rules, daily routines and key areas—such as their bedrooms, common rooms and study spaces. Parents also had the chance to meet some of the staff who would be caring for their children in the coming months.

Once parents said goodbye, our returning boarders arrived, and a series of games and sports activities took place, which helped break the ice. These fun activities encouraged new pupils to bond with their peers and settle in comfortably. By the end of the first evening, laughter and chatter filled the corridors—a clear sign that new friendships were already forming.

The boarding staff played a key role in ensuring a smooth transition for everyone. They helped pupils unpack, offered reassurance to those feeling homesick and made sure every child felt supported. Each evening, matrons and mentors checked in with pupils to see how they were doing and to remind them where to go if they needed help.

There was also close communication between the boarding team and day school tutors. This ensured that any concerns shared in the evening could be quickly addressed the next day—and vice versa.

A structured routine was introduced early on, balancing study time, meals and relaxation. This helped pupils adjust quickly to their new schedule. The staff also encouraged pupils to speak up—whether they had worries about schoolwork, friendships, or homesickness—or even ideas to make Ming House even better!

Parents have shared their appreciation:

Another parent said:

By midweek, any early nervousness had turned into excitement. New boarders were confidently finding their way around, joining in group activities, and even helping each other with homework. Returning pupils took on mentoring roles, sharing tips on time management, school life and how to relax after a busy day.

As the settling week ended, pupils were encouraged to think about their goals for the term. Whether improving academically, trying a new sport, or simply making the most of boarding life, everyone was inspired to set personal targets. The boarding staff emphasised the importance of responsibility, respect and kindness—values that will guide pupils throughout their time here.

For new boarders, the first week was about overcoming challenges and finding a sense of belonging. For returning pupils, it was a chance to reconnect with friends and take on leadership roles. Together, they have already created a warm and supportive community.

With such a positive start, we are confident that this will be a fantastic year for our boarding house. The friendships formed in these early days will only grow stronger, and the lessons learned—about independence, friendship and resilience—will stay with pupils long after they leave.

We are excited to see how our boarders continue to thrive in their studies and personal growth. Here's to a year full of achievements, laughter and unforgettable memories!

For those considering boarding life, we will be running Boarder Taster sessions in October—an excellent opportunity to experience the warmth and friendship of Ming House firsthand. Come and see what makes our boarding community so special!