Boarding essentials
🏷️ From £175
🎧 New boarding staff
đź“Ť Online
Course Outline:
The level of professionalism expected in boarding supervision has significantly increased in recent years, driven by stronger regulatory frameworks and rising parental expectations. This seminar is designed to support staff who are new to boarding by complementing their school-based induction and providing essential context around the key responsibilities and expectations of the role.
By equipping new boarding staff with a solid understanding of the principles, legal context, and practicalities of boarding care, schools can quickly establish confident, capable teams who enjoy their duties and provide high-quality support to the young people in their care.
The session will explore the Duty of Care framework, safeguarding, roles and boundaries, and how to meet the everyday needs of boarders. Delegates are encouraged to familiarise themselves in advance with their school’s boarding handbook and relevant boarding-related materials from their school’s website.
Training Topics:
- Safeguarding and the National Minimum Standards for Boarding:
An overview of legal and inspection requirements, with a focus on current safeguarding expectations in boarding practice. - Meeting the Needs of Boarders:
Practical case studies to explore common scenarios in boarding life and how to manage them effectively and empathetically. - Understanding Your Role in Boarding:
Discussion around the expectations of the school, the boarding house, parents—and your own expectations as a member of the pastoral team. - Working Safely and Looking After Yourself:
Tips and guidance on maintaining your wellbeing, working safely, and finding fulfilment in your boarding role.
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the session, participants will be able to:
- Understand the key principles and expectations of working in a boarding environment
- Feel more confident in supporting the wellbeing and development of boarders
- Recognise the legal context, including safeguarding responsibilities and the National Minimum Standards for Boarding
- Reflect on their role within the wider pastoral team and identify strategies for maintaining personal wellbeing and resilience
Speaker:
David Walker FTIOB, Executive Director, Boarding & Education and Director, BSA/TIOB
David has over 20 years’ experience in boarding. His career includes leadership roles in senior and prep school settings across the UK and Africa, complemented by service as a prep school governor and trustee of a multi-academy trust. David was previously Deputy Head Pastoral at a large co-educational independent school, where he oversaw student welfare. His background in safeguarding, boarding leadership, and governance gives him a broad perspective on the sector, enabling him to support schools.
Dale Wilkins FTIOB, Executive Director, BSA Group Scotland/Wales and Accredited/Compliance
Dale joined the BSA in 2017 to lead safeguarding, inspection, and compliance across the UK, building on his experience as a course tutor since 1998. He works closely with ISI, Ofsted, and the DfE, while also overseeing the Group’s work in Scotland and Wales. A trainer and consultant for BSA and SACPA, he is Vice Chair of SAFCAB. Dale previously spent 31 years as a boarding practitioner, including roles as Housemaster and Deputy Head at Old Swinford Hospital. Beyond education, he trains for the Methodist Church, is a charity trustee, chairs a performing arts organisation, and volunteers widely.
