Ferdi McDermott, Headmaster of Chavagnes International College writes:
As our world is more and more shaped by social media and online interactions we can easily underestimate the enormous influence that this parallel universe can have on young people’s development. Boarding schools, on the whole, are aware of this and offer an alternative. (Murkett, 2024). They can offer a unique advantage: a more structured and balanced environment where children and young people can grow without the constant distraction of flickering screens. Boarding schools deliberately limit media access, allowing students to focus more on their studies, to build meaningful relationships, and to find the serenity necessary for personal growth. Research shows that teenagers who spend less time online are more likely to have better concentration, improved sleep, and a deeper commitment to their educational goals (Chen et al., 2008; Das-Friebel et al., 2019).
Unlike day schools who have little or no influence on the lives of students outside of the classroom, boarding institutions emphasise face-to-face relationships 24/7. The shared experience of living and learning together helps students form deep, meaningful bonds based on trust and empathy, which are often lacking in digital interaction (McBride, 2011). And the digital world can become scarily dominant for young people who are spending sometimes upwards of 10 hours a day active and online. This strong sense of community in a boarding school reduces the chances of engaging in risky behaviours, such as substance abuse, gambling or other addictive behaviour, as young people feel more grounded and supported in a family-like environment (McNeely et al., 2002).
Traditional boarding schools also promote independence. Students take charge of their daily routines, manage their personal needs, and learn vital life skills, from effective study habits to looking after themselves. Many of these schools also promote student leadership, thereby teaching young people how to manage and inspire others too. With the support of teachers and mentors, these schools foster resilience, confidence, and preparedness for the challenges of adulthood (Pavletic et al., 2016).
In summary, boarding schools provide a safe space for adolescents to develop into successful individuals. By encouraging focus, authentic friendships, and community values, they offer more than just academic education; they prepare young people for the complexities of life.
References
Chen, M-Y., Liou, Y., & Wu, J-Y. (2008). The Relationship Between TV/Computer Time and Adolescents’ Health-Promoting Behaviour: A Secondary Data Analysis. Journal of Nursing Research, 16, 75-85.
Das-Friebel, A., Perkinson-Gloor, N., Brand, S., Dewald-Kaufmann, J., Grob, A., Wolke, D., & Lemola, S. (2019). A pilot cluster-randomised study to increase sleep duration by decreasing electronic media use at night and caffeine consumption in adolescents. Sleep Medicine.
McBride, D. (2011). Risks and benefits of social media for children and adolescents. Journal of Paediatric Nursing, 26(5), 498-9.
McNeely, C., Nonnemaker, J., & Blum, R. (2002). Promoting school connectedness: Evidence from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health. The Journal of School Health, 72(4), 138-46.
Murkett, Kristina, https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/theres-a-reason-eton-is-cracking-down-on-smartphones/ Accessed 31st October, 2024.
Pavletic, A.C., Dukes, T., Greene, J., Taylor, J.P., & Gilpin, L. (2016). Health Services in Boarding School. The Journal of School Nursing, 32(4), 304-314.
Catholic boarding schools 