If you ask Ascham’s elected student Head of Boarding for 2025, Skye Simpson, about her predominant feeling when she embarked on her boarding journey in 2020, she would say it was ‘uncertainty’. Now in Year 12, Skye has thrived as an Ascham boarder over the years and regards living on campus as a highlight of her high school experience. Skye has reflected thoughtfully on her last five years in Boarding, in order to offer sage advice to new boarders.
‘The thought of starting boarding school comes with many emotions,’ said Skye. ‘If I could go back to when I first started Year 7 as a boarder at Ascham, I’d remind myself to stay present in the moment and not get hung up on the little things. Boarding is life experience that is rare, and the more that you give to it, the more you will get out of it.’
Skye remembers leaving home in Mudgee to start Year 7 in the city, and can relate to the nervousness felt by current new boarders. ‘My biggest fears at the time were concerned with homesickness and making entirely new friends with whom I had to live. But I’ve since learned that these fears are temporary—everyone is in the same situation as you, feeling exactly what you’re feeling. While it’s very different from home life, boarding is an opportunity to adapt and grow away from home.’
Skye believes that appreciating differences and forging friendships are two vital aspects of approaching boarding life. ‘One of the most valuable lessons boarding school has taught me is that everyone comes from a unique background,’ she said, ‘and understanding those differences is key to building strong relationships. I believe that this skill has definitely served me well in all distinct aspects of life, especially in the day school. The bonds that I have made in Boarding are all individual and personal.’
Skye is excited to commence her final year at Ascham as Head of Boarding, working with the student Boarding Committee to lead the entire cohort of Ascham boarders, where specialised programs nurture each Year group from 7 to 12.
Upon reflection, what words of advice does Skye offer new boarders, whether in Year 7 or joining a cohort at another Year level? ‘If I could do it all again, I would connect with students in different Year levels and build those friendships sooner,’ she said. ‘I advise approaching Boarding School with an open mind and an open heart. Be willing to embrace the change and you will really be rewarded!’
