Concerned about making the right choice for your child’s education? A boarding school could be the ideal alternative. Here, we take a look at an option in Queensland Australia, The Southport School (TSS), and hear from a former student about his experiences as a boarder at the school.
A word from the school …
TSS is an Anglican day and boarding school on the Gold Coast for boys from Preschool (Kindergarten) to Year 12, with boarding available from Year 7. TSS provides a balanced and holistic approach to boys’ education, with strong academic and co-curricular integrated programmes. For well over a century the school has made a positive impact on society by guiding, nurturing and shaping the character of boys as they mature into young men.
A word from a former student …
Name: Charles Martin
Age: 22
When did you attend TSS?
I was at the school from 2002 to 2014, as a day student.
What were some of the highlights of your time at the school?
Over the course of my time at TSS, I made sure I took advantage of the wide range of extracurricular activities available to students. For me, this ranged from debating, to cricket, to international service projects through Round Square. At the time, a 6am bus up to Brisbane to play cricket wasn’t exactly what I would have described as my ideal Saturday morning. But looking back on it now, it’s these memories that I miss most. The friendships I formed and the skills I learned as a result of being part of a team are invaluable.
What was your favourite subject?
Probably English Extension. You have a lot more freedom than your typical English class and you are encouraged to explore texts and theories that interest you.
What have you gone on to do since graduating from school?
I was offered a full scholarship to the University of Sydney, and have since completed my degree in Health Science.
In what ways did TSS help you on your path to what you’re doing today?
I think what sets TSS apart from other schools is that it takes the aspirations of its students seriously. Provided the proper resources and time, no goal is out of reach. I believe the school’s embracing of this very idea is exemplified best by the enthusiasm and quality of its teachers, the work ethic and character of its pastoral care staff, the contemporary, ever-learning mindset of its academic leaders, and the enthusiasm of its coaches and conductors.
TSS helped me to not only envision a successful future for myself but more importantly to believe that that future was possible.
What do you hope to be doing in 10 years’ time?
I hope to be working in a field that I enjoy, preferably one that allows me to travel and continue growing as an individual.
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This article first appeared in the February/March 2019 issue of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue.
