POLOKWANE – The building of a “home away from home” for Mitchell House College learners is nearing completion.
From January 2014, Mitchell House College will offer boarding to 30 boys and 30 girls in a purpose-built boarding house.
“Our facility aims to provide its residents with a ‘home away from home’ experience, and it is modelled on the best facilities available in South Africa,” says Andrew Cook, the headmaster of Mitchell House College.
Under the directorship of a resident housemaster, Doug Friedemann, a matron, Sue Pitcairn and two resident house tutors, Tiri Takawira and Sithembiso Moleme, weekly and termly boarding will be offered to learners from gr. 8 to gr. 12.
The boarding house team will be responsible for the physical, academic and social development of those in their care, informed by a strong Christian ethos.
In adolescence, it is widely recognised that peer pressure plays an enormously important role in developing attitudes and values, says Cook.
“Our boarding will seek to tap into that drive and energy, channelling it into productive opportunities for the boys and girls,” he says, explaining that boarders would enjoy leave every weekend provided that their school commitments were met.
Normally, this would be for Saturday nights through to Sunday evenings.
Those remaining at school over the weekend will be expected to attend a church service. Other activities will involve controlled access to Mall of the North (which is within a walking distance) to enjoy a movie or to eat at one of many restaurants available there.
“Advantages for our boarders is that they will have access to all of the school’s sports facilities, a healthy and supervised social life and professional oversight of their academic performance and discipline. Learning to live with others develops a learner’s emotional intelligence. “We do not underestimate the role that peer mentors and models can play in the growth of young men and women,” says Cook.
“At a time when so many parents are under pressure to meet their own professional obligations, quality time with children is often sacrificed. We are confident that we can meet your child’s needs.”
Space is still available for those who are interested.
Boarding will cost R4 100 per month over 10 months. To secure a room, a deposit of R10 000 is required.
This includes the first month’s fee as well as a refundable deposit.
