Creating a sense of comfort and belonging at St Mary’s Boarding

POSTED January 8 2025 , Boarding

Starting boarding school at St Mary’s is an exciting journey, but it’s also a time of big changes. We strive to help your daughter to create a space that feels like home and find her place in our school community. Here are some practical ways to ensure she feels comfortable, connected and supported during this transition.

1. Making her room feel like home

When your daughter first arrives at Anne Symington House, her room will be her personal space, and making it feel welcoming can help ease any feelings of homesickness. Holly, a Year 12 boarder, shares that setting up her room was an enjoyable experience. “The key is to bring things that will help to make it feel like a home away from home for you,” she says.

Simple touches, like a cozy blanket from home, a favourite stuffed animal or some plants to add life and greenery, can transform a dorm room into a sanctuary. Holly also recommends decorating the space with photos from home. These can be displayed on a pinup board or placed around the room, offering constant reminders of loved ones.

Personalising her room helps blend the comfort of home with the excitement of starting at one of the leading girls boarding schools in Perth, creating a warm and familiar environment that supports her transition.

2. Building new friendships

Making friends can feel intimidating, but St Mary’s prides itself on its welcoming and inclusive community. Emmerson, a Year 12 boarder, encourages younger students, particularly those in Year 7, to step outside their comfort zones. “When you are coming as a new Year 7, you should never be afraid to talk to the other girls in your year. Everyone is going through the same thing together, and no one would push away a new friend,” she advises.

Students at St Mary’s often form friendships that span across year groups. Older boarders offer guidance, listen and check in on younger students, creating a supportive network within the boarding house. This strong sense of community helps new boarders feel at home quickly.

3. Getting Involved in cocurricular activities

Beyond the dorm room, participating in cocurricular activities is one of the best ways to foster a sense of belonging. Encourage your daughter to explore activities that align with her interests, whether it’s sports, music, drama, or clubs.

Cocurricular activities not only help develop new skills but also provide opportunities to meet like-minded peers. By expressing herself outside academics, she’ll form deeper connections with both students and staff, reinforcing her bond with the wider St Mary’s community.

4. Participating in social events

Social events and school activities are another fantastic way to feel part of the vibrant life at St Mary’s. These events range from casual gatherings to themed celebrations, giving your daughter opportunities to bond with students across year groups.

Encourage her to attend these events to share experiences, make lasting friendships and enjoy the fun aspects of school life. These moments are often what make boarding school memories so special.

Final thoughts

Starting boarding school at St Mary’s is a transformative experience, offering your daughter opportunities to grow academically, socially and personally. As one of the top girls boarding schools in WA, St Mary’s ensures that every student feels supported and valued.

From making her dorm room feel like home to building friendships and engaging in cocurricular activities, there are countless ways to help your daughter settle into her new environment. Holly and Emmerson’s insights highlight how students can embrace this transition with confidence and excitement.