Starting a new chapter: Easing into boarding life at St Mary’s
POSTED January 7 2025 , Boarding
Taking the step into boarding school is a significant moment for any girl and her family. At St Mary’s, one of the leading girls boarding schools in Perth, we understand that this change can feel like a leap into the unknown. With a warm, welcoming community and thoughtful support systems, we strive to make this transition as smooth and positive as possible – for both boarders and their families.
A mix of excitement and nerves
As moving day approaches, it’s common for girls to feel a mix of emotions. Excitement about independence and new adventures often sits alongside nerves about leaving home, adjusting to a new routine and making friends in an unfamiliar environment. These feelings are perfectly natural. At St Mary’s, we’re here to guide girls through this process, ensuring they feel supported and understood every step of the way.
Boarding school preparation
Preparation starts at home. Talking openly about what boarding will look like – daily routines, shared spaces, and new friendships – helps demystify the experience. Visiting St Mary’s before the move can be especially reassuring. Meeting our friendly boarding staff, exploring Anne Symington House and picturing daily life in their new surroundings can make the unknown feel less daunting.
We encourage families to ask questions, share concerns and celebrate this new chapter together. These conversations show your daughter that she’s not alone in this journey and that you’re cheering her on from home.
Boarding Transition Program
To further support this transition, St Mary’s offers a dedicated Boarding Transition Program. This initiative is designed to help incoming boarders familiarise themselves with key boarding house staff, existing boarding students and other members of the School community before they begin their journey at St Mary’s. It also provides the girls with opportunities to connect with their future boarding peers through fun and engaging activities in an online setting ahead of orientation in October.
The Boarding Transition Program is centred around a series of five online catch-ups, held every three weeks from the beginning of Semester 2. These catch-ups include:
- A meet and greet with our Head of Boarding, Kellie Douglas, and the School’s Year 12 Senior Boarder.
- A catch-up with several current Year 7 boarders, who share their experiences of moving into Anne Symington House and answer questions from incoming boarders.
- An introduction to our Boarding Academic Support Coordinator, who outlines the academic support available to boarding students and how it is structured.
- A catch-up with our Head of Year 7 and Associate Dean of Students (Years 7 to 9), who provide a glimpse into life at St Mary’s and how boarders are supported in the day school.
- A meet and greet with Associate Dean of Cocurriculum, who shares the cocurricular options available at St Mary’s, alongside insights from Head of Boarding, Kellie Douglas, about the boarding house’s lively recreational program.
Building a new routine
Settling into a boarding school routine takes time, but St Mary’s has everything in place to help girls feel at home. Each year group has its own dedicated House Mother who creates a nurturing environment and stays closely connected with parents. The House Mothers are a comforting presence, offering support and guidance during those first days of adjustment and beyond.
Friendships are a cornerstone of the boarding experience, and our programs are designed to spark meaningful connections. Our Big Sister, Little Sister initiative pairs younger boarders with older students who serve as mentors, while our Perth Pal Program connects boarders with day girls, building a sense of community that extends beyond the boarding house.
Staying connected with home
While your daughter is building her life at St Mary’s, staying connected to home is vital. Regular phone calls, care packages and visits can help maintain that special bond. Many parents find that small gestures – a favourite snack, a handwritten note or a shared laugh over a video call – help bridge the distance and remind their daughters that home is always close at heart.
Your support and encouragement play a huge role in helping your daughter settle in. Show her that you trust in her resilience and in the community at St Mary’s to take great care of her.
A safe and supportive community
From the moment your daughter arrives, she becomes part of a vibrant and caring community. Our experienced boarding staff, led by our Head of Boarding, Kellie Douglas, are always on hand to offer guidance, reassurance and support. Whether it’s through structured recreation programs, tailored pastoral care or simply a listening ear, we ensure every girl feels seen and valued.
As one of the most respected girls boarding schools in WA, St Mary’s believes that boarding is more than just a place to live – it’s a home away from home. It’s a space where girls grow into confident, compassionate individuals, surrounded by friends who become like family and mentors who truly care.
A new beginning
Transitioning to boarding school is a journey of courage, growth and discovery. With your love and our unwavering support, your daughter will flourish in her new environment, building skills, friendships, and memories that will last a lifetime.