Benefits of Boarding
At Wilds Lodge School, we believe that boarding offers so much more than just a place to stay - it provides a foundation for growth, connection, and belonging. The benefits of boarding here can be grouped into three key areas:
Environment
Physical Location
Relationships
Each plays a vital role in creating the nurturing and structured experience that defines life at Wilds Lodge.
“I will forever be grateful to the school for saving not only my child, but us as a whole family unit.”
Physical Location
The rural setting of Wilds Lodge provides a peaceful, supportive backdrop for learning and growth, far from urban pressures and distractions.
Calm, Rural Setting: Our remote location offers an aspirational environment free from the "herd mentality" often experienced in urban areas, allowing learners to focus on personal growth and self-discovery in a tranquil, natural setting.
Accessible Community Resources: Proximity to a calm, community-oriented rural area helps learners engage in local activities and events, building social skills and confidence in a supportive environment.
Connection with Nature: Our learners experience the benefits of fresh air, open spaces, and natural beauty daily, supporting emotional well-being and inspiring calm.
Easy Transport Links: Despite our secluded setting, transport links remain accessible, making the school conveniently reachable for family visits and trips.
“They [students] value the care given by staff.”
Relationships
Relationships are at the heart of everything we do. By fostering a culture of stability, continuity, and individualised care, we create a nurturing community where learners feel understood and valued.
Consistent Care Across All Areas: Our high staff retention means learners build long-term, trusting relationships with familiar adults who support them throughout their time at Wilds Lodge. Staff work seamlessly across school and residential life, providing continuity that reduces anxiety and ensures a steady routine.
Supportive Transition to Adulthood: Our independence pathway and daily transitions prepare learners for adulthood, guiding them through each stage and supporting them in building life skills.
Social and Emotional Compatibility: Our multi-site approach provides varied settings that enhance social interaction, matched to each learner's needs.
Family-Centric Approach: We promote sustainable family relationships by offering “weekends at home,” allowing learners to maintain close family bonds. Our “weekends at home” model sustains family connections, balancing residential support with family time to strengthen bonds.
College & Career Pathways: Wilds Lodge staff support transitions into further education and careers, providing guidance and mentoring as learners plan their next steps.
Round-the-Clock Support: Learners have immediate access to professional support during challenging times, fostering resilience and emotional stability.
“Children make highly significant progress in many areas of their lives.”
Environment
Our campus and boarding provision are structured to create a safe, predictable, and enriching environment that helps learners feel secure, stay engaged, and grow in all aspects of their lives.
Predictable Routine & Stability: The daily structure at Wilds Lodge provides stability and consistency, helping learners develop positive routines and feel secure.
24-Hour Wrap-Around Curriculum: Our integrated day-to-evening curriculum meets each learner’s needs by balancing academic, social, and personal development. Learners benefit from continued support during challenging times, which fosters resilience and readiness for learning.
Focus on Physical Health & Wellness: With a nutritious diet, varied sporting activities, and healthy sleep routines, learners develop habits that support their well-being and physical health.
Safety-First Culture: All staff are vetted and trained to provide a secure, trauma-informed environment where learners feel protected and supported, especially those with previous trauma.
Enhanced Experiences: The residential setting offers unique opportunities, including residential trips and evening programs that may be unavailable in a home setting, enriching the overall experience.
Commitment to Positive School Attendance: Our boarding culture encourages regular attendance and supports a positive attitude toward school, reducing fragmentation between home and school life.