Thinking about boarding school?
Monique Clark • July 29, 2022
Whether it’s because you live far away from your school of choice, or because of its benefits, here’s why you shouldn’t overlook Crawford International’s boarding facilities.
South Africa has a long and proud tradition of boarding schools – many families live in far-flung areas that make getting to a good school difficult, for others a specific boarding school provides tuition in academics, culture or sporting that is simply unparalleled.
SA boarding schools offer an excellent option for children from our neighbouring countries. Whatever the reason you’re considering boarding school as an option, your child can gain more from being a boarder than anything else – especially at Crawford International’s North Coast College in KZN.
What your child learns by boarding
Boarding school can be an absolutely magical experience. While they will be away from you for extended periods of time, attending a boarding school has these advantages:
- Learning in a home away from home environment gives your child space to learn about themselves and grow as an individual. This independence and self-reliance is a skill that will stand them in good stead for their adulthood.
- AT boarding school, your child eats, sleeps, learns, and plays with their peers. It’s a built-in community where they learn not just how to live with and accept people from all kinds of different backgrounds, but also where they learn about the importance of diversity, compassion and perspective. The benefits of a supportive social community cannot be overlooked in a post-pandemic world.
- A daily routine helps boarders feel safe, as it lets them know exactly what is expected from them. It also teaches your child discipline and accountability – if they don’t make their own beds or forget to pack that textbook, it’s all on them. Accountability is another life skill that your child can take into adulthood.
- Learning takes on a unique focus at boarding school, and your child will be able to access support and guidance through the boarder-teacher mentors they live with.
Boarding at Crawford International North Coast College
A home away from home for boys and girls from Grade 7 to Grade 12 and situated just outside of Ballito in KwaZulu-Natal on our North Coast campus off Watson Highway, Crawford Boarding gives your child a caring community in which to thrive.
At this boarding school, which is just a stone’s throw from the King Shaka International Airport in KZN, learners are supported and guided in an extended family-style system unique to Crawford International.
Boarder-teacher mentors and a small group of borders create a warm, caring environment with lots of personal interaction, so your child feels safe, supported, and able to chat whenever they need to.
Private and semi-private rooms are available for your child’s comfort and our daily menu focuses on nutritious, well-balanced meals. Our caring campus community also offers transport and laundry services, with a world-class private hospital and specialist care nearby.
Crawford International North Coast is a veritable haven where your child can engage with their peers and grow through a high-performance academic, sports and cultural programme.
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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: DYLAN BIZJAK Crawford International Sandton From the classrooms of Crawford International Sandton to the forefront of aeronautical engineering in the Netherlands, Dylan Bizjak’s journey is one of ambition, resilience and innovation . Pursuing a Passion for Engineering After matriculating in 2019, Dylan initially pursued Aeronautical Engineering at Wits University. However, six months into his studies, a new opportunity emerged, one that would take him beyond South Africa’s borders. He secured a place at Inholland University of Applied Sciences in Delft, Netherlands, where he embraced the challenge of international study, even navigating his first year remotely due to the pandemic. Now a graduate with a BSc in Aeronautical Engineering (2024), Dylan has stepped into the professional world, joining Eve Reverse, a pioneering start-up dedicated to climate-positive innovation. What began as an internship in his final year evolved into a full-time role as a Research and Development Engineer, where he contributes to the creation of sustainable, carbon-negative materials. His proudest achievement? Playing a key role in the development of the Eve Dry Tile, an innovative flax fibre material designed to reduce emissions and waste in manufacturing. Achievements at Crawford International Sandton Gareth Beach Award (2019) – Recognised for bravery, dedication, self-development and outstanding achievement in swimming. Sportsman of the Year (2019) – Acknowledged for excellence in swimming, basketball and boxing. Reflections on Crawford Dylan credits his time at Crawford for preparing him for both academic and personal success on the global stage. “Crawford’s approach equips you for university and beyond, whether in South Africa or internationally. It’s not just about academics but about becoming a well-rounded critical thinker and team player. Exposure to diverse cultures, teamwork, individuality and taking responsibility for my outcomes were invaluable lessons I carried with me.” Words of Wisdom To his younger self, Dylan would say: “Step out of your comfort zone sooner. Growth happens when you challenge yourself. Leaving home was tough, but the personal and professional growth was worth every stumble along the way.” Dylan’s story is a testament to courage, hard work and the power of embracing the unknown. From South Africa to the Netherlands, he is proving that the sky isn’t the limit, it is just the beginning.
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A Guide To Parent Teacher Meetings The new academic term has just started a few weeks ago, and families with school-going children are settling into their routines. However, as students transition back to the classroom, another important aspect of the school calendar looms, parent teacher meetings. While these meetings are integral to nurturing strong collaboration between families and schools, they can also bring a mix of emotions, from curiosity to unease, for parents. In South Africa, where over 12 million students attend public and private schools (Department of Basic Education, 2023), the importance of such interactions cannot be overstated. These sessions offer invaluable insights into a child’s academic progress, social development, and overall well-being. What Are Parent Teacher Meetings? Parent teacher meetings are structured conversations between parents and their child’s teachers, aimed at discussing the student’s academic performance, behaviour, and overall development. These meetings create an opportunity for open communication, ensuring that both parties can collaborate effectively to support the student’s educational journey. They are not just a platform for addressing concerns but also for celebrating achievements and setting shared goals. What Do They Entail at Crawford? At Crawford International, parent teacher meetings are designed to be more than just routine check-ins. They reflect our commitment to fostering strong partnerships with families. During these sessions, parents meet with teachers to gain a holistic view of their student’s progress, not only academically but also socially and emotionally. Teachers share personalised feedback, highlight areas of growth, and discuss strategies to address challenges. These meetings are tailored to align with our ethos of developing well-rounded students, emphasising collaboration to ensure every child reaches their potential. How Often Are They? Parent teacher meetings at Crawford typically occur once per term, although additional sessions may be scheduled based on specific needs or requests. Regularity ensures that parents stay informed about their child’s journey throughout the academic year. These consistent touchpoints help to build trust and maintain a steady flow of communication between parents and teachers. How Best Should Parents Prepare for Them? Preparation is key to making the most of parent teacher meetings. Here are a few practical tips: Review Reports and Notes – before the meeting, review any recent academic reports, test results, or communication from the school. This provides a foundation for meaningful discussions. Prepare Questions – jot down specific questions or concerns you want to address. For example, ask about areas where your child excels or struggles and how you can support them at home. Engage with Your Child – have a conversation with your child about their experiences at school. Understanding their perspective can provide valuable context for the meeting. Be Open-Minded – approach the meeting with a collaborative mindset. Remember, the goal is to work together with the teachers to support your child’s growth. Take Notes – during the meeting, take notes on key points discussed, including recommendations from teachers. This ensures you can follow through on agreed actions. Parent teacher meetings are more than a requirement; they are an investment in a child’s future. By approaching these sessions with preparation and a collaborative spirit, parents can play an active role in shaping their child’s educational journey. As families across South Africa embrace this vital part of the school experience, let’s work together to make each interaction meaningful and impactful.
