Living as a Group
 

Probably the biggest change you will face in boarding is living as a member of a larger group. This may require some adjustment, which you can start thinking about before you come to Dunedin.

There is an advantage in having plenty of boys around you as there is always someone to have a game with or to talk to. On the other hand it is often difficult to get away to have time to yourself. Also you must think about how your attitudes and actions affect other people. You have to treat other people as you wish them to treat you. You must try to ensure that your habits do not annoy other people too much and don't let other people's habits annoy you. You must try to be tolerant and understanding. I hope you will see a reason for everything we ask you to do.

We try to run each boarding house as a family but a family of one-hundred-and-ten has to be arranged rather differently from your much smaller family at home. We ask the people who are supervising to act as “older brothers” helping you to develop and to make life easier and more interesting for you. It is really important to remember that you will get out of boarding exactly what you are prepared to put into it. Discipline within the boarding houses is firm but fair. Certain standards and well-ordered living are expected of young adults. Rules are kept to the minimum but firmly administered. Because of the size of the extended family more rules are necessary than in a home. Please read the section on rules carefully.