3 minute read
Boarders Reap the Benefits of Good Study Habits
With so many distractions these days, can boarding school help students develop positive study habits?
According to Jane Shone, one of the Directors of the Australian Boarding School Association and MLC Head of Boarding, developing strong study habits is one key benefits of boarding at MLC’s Tiddeman House.
“Structure and routine help students get into the right mindset, not only for school, but for a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
“There are several layers to this – from set mealtimes, scheduled homework sessions after school, and wellbeing activities, such as designated movie nights or cooking classes, all balanced with recreation and leisure time that students can plan themselves,” explains Jane.
“After school hours, our students have dedicated prep time in order to complete their homework, with the support of our highly qualified staff. Furthermore, by holding these sessions in the school library, there is a myriad of resources at their fingertips. This is one of the many perks of having our Boarding House located here on campus.”
To further enhance good study habits, MLC also partners with specialist boarding tutors who come in twice a week. “They teach our boarders revision techniques, essay writing skills, and how to undertake research free from distraction.”
Research has shown that sleep health is so important to health, resilience and performance at school, yet Studies have shown that Australian teens are the third most sleep deprived in the world and that more than 70% of Australian high school students suffer from regular sleep deprivation.
“This is why we reinforce night-time routines and recently had a renowned child psychologist provide students with sleep hygiene advice and practical steps they can take to ensure they get a good night’s rest. This pays dividends in their attention and engagement in the classroom.”
Another key component of boarders’ enhanced study habits is what Jane calls the “network of support.”
Boarding staff include qualified teachers and even past boarders themselves, so students feel well supported across all areas of boarding life, such as wellbeing, dealing with homesickness, and navigating friendships.
“Help is always available, and we are proactive in monitoring students’ wellbeing. We understand that health and wellbeing is innately tied to their academic progress,” says Jane.
“Once a week we have Life Skills sessions, where girls can speak with the Senior Prefects and raise and resolve any issues they may have.”
By the time MLC’s boarders reach their final year of school, they are ready for adult life and the expectations of university. “They have already experienced shared, independent living,” says Jane. “During their time as a boarder, their confidence in themselves and what they can achieve grows and grows.”
