Branksome Hall Asia
Located on the island of Jeju in South Korea, Branksome Hall Asia has a reputation for academic excellence. Using the motto “discover your remarkable”, the school aims to inspire girls to discover their individual strengths and talents. It offers state-of-theart facilities and a “home-away-from-home” approach in its boarding houses, with the aim of empowering students and supporting both their academic and personal needs. We chatted with the four Heads of House, to find out what life is like as a boarding student.
Tell us about the students’ communal living arrangements.
We have four houses of residence: Ainslie, Shin Saimdang, Sherborne, and Seondeok. Each one tailors its programmes to suit its residents, as each combination of individuals will bring with them a range of different needs and talents, making a unique community of its own.
Our hope for our girls is that through their communal living experience they will be empowered young women, loving learning and holding fast to their principles in whatever arena they choose to dedicate themselves.
What are the advantages of being a boarding student?
Residence is a place where the girls can learn to build and sustain relationships with one another, communicate respectfully and grow healthy work habits. They become skilled at working with others, to achieve common goals for the benefit of the community. Girls are given responsibility in the house, which builds strong and independent living habits.
How do you support students who are new to the residential life?
We have an induction programme to support new students. Each girl is directly under the care of the residence family Teacher Don and is supported by a residence buddy. Our school counsellor will also check in on her regularly for the first few weeks.
How do the students spend their weekends?
The girls are encouraged to take part in sporting activities, and they have access to the school’s facilities, including the swimming pool, gym and fitness centre.
Regular excursions off-site such as going to movies, shopping or the beach are planned, and our weekend programme offers plenty of activities that promote teambuilding, independence and creating fun memories and lasting friendships. There is time set aside for academic study and clubs.
What academic supports are in place to help residential students?
Our students have round-the-clock academic support from our Teacher Dons, who work closely with the girls, providing support with homework and other academic projects, along with Teacher Interns in each House to further extend the support to our girls. The School also offers a Mentorship programme, much like a “Big Sister, Little Sister” programme, and students regularly receive support from their carefully assigned peers.