The benefits of junior boarding

This is advertiser content for St Joseph's Nudgee College.

For boarders, St Joseph's Nudgee College is not just their school, it is their home. While some boarders only experience a year or two in Nudgee College Boarding, others start in Years 5, 6 or 7, and thus most of their teenage years are shaped by their journey through Boarding.

Head of Murphy Boarding House Mr Ben Ralston spent years as the Head of O'Brien Boarding House, which is a dormitory for boys from Years 5 to 9.

When boys begin their high school boarding experience in Year 7, Ben said it allowed them to form friendships and develop good habits around study and daily routine under the guidance of experienced staff who provide a caring and nurturing environment.

"I have been able to see the transformation of several boarders I looked after in O'Brien who are now flourishing in a Senior Boarding House," he said.

"I think being here from Year 7 has helped these young men really feel as though Nudgee College is a second home to them and has allowed them to mature at their own pace, supported by many great role models."

Boarders Joe and Todd Kenny from Charters Towers featured in the Home Away From Home series, started at Nudgee College Boarding this year in Years 7 and 9 respectively; following in the footsteps of older brothers Dean (Year 12) and Benn (NC 2017).

As a fourth-generation Nudgee College family, parents Clay and Carina Kenny believed it was important to continue the tradition for their sons.

From outback Queensland to across the other side of the world, it was a similar family connection to Nudgee College that encouraged Year 12 student Izaac Fiorini into boarding.

Izaac was living in Dubai before he moved into Nudgee College Boarding when he was in Year 7. His father had also boarded at the College, and Izaac said he felt privileged to continue that tradition.

"I loved watching the Nudgee spirit videos growing up, and I would watch the 1st XV video over and over again before arriving at Nudgee College," he said.

From fast-making friendships to getting the hang of community living by the end of his first year of high school, Izaac said there were many benefits to his early start in Nudgee College Boarding.

"Starting off in Year 7 has helped shape me, in good times and in bad, into a true Nudgee College man," he said.

"From an endless sleepover with your mates, to waking up five minutes before morning training, boarding is also just such a convenience for everyday life and study."

While going into boarding can be daunting for some boys, Izaac agrees that the best way to adjust is to get involved.

"From academics to sport, and even supporting others through their sports and extracurricular activities, it is imperative that you get involved," Izaac said.

"There's always a calling to something, so don't be afraid to put your hand up and give it a go."

Bush Boarding Bursaries are available for new students entering Years 7 to 10 in 2020, 2021 and 2022. For further information regarding an application, please visit Nudgee admissions, bursaries and scholarships.

The Kenny family has recently featured in a mini documentary series about Nudgee College Boarding titled 'Home Away From Home'. The second episode of the series is featured above. The series, which created by Onion TV, is available to stream on the Nudgee College Facebook page and YouTube channel.

This is advertiser content for St Joseph's Nudgee College.