Behind The Doors of Gibb House
The boarding house at Scots College is often described as a "home away from home," and most of our boarders report that the friendships forged within the Gibb House community last a whole lifetime, creating a network of support and camaraderie throughout their academic journey and beyond.
Our boarders come from all over New Zealand and from all over the world. We spoke with one of our current boarders and asked him to tell us about some of his best memories of boarding at Scots College.
Raphael grew up in Queenstown and joined Scots College as a boarder in Year 10 at the start of 2021.
I remember feeling intimidated at joining a new school in a new city away from my friends and family. However, once I had said goodbye to my parents and was unpacked, it didn't take long to feel settled in and start to make some new friends. The other boarders were very welcoming and helpful, making sure I didn't get lost and knew where I needed to be. We played sport in the school gym, which was a lot of fun and helped me feel more a part of this wider family instantly.
Raphael says that spending every night with the same people has brought him closer to everyone.
When I first started, I was introduced to the phrase "He Waka Eke Noa," which translates to "We're all in this together." This saying is the foundation of what Gibb House is all about, and over time I have realised the sense of community that is present within boarding. Everyone is willing to uplift one another and are the first to congratulate each other when personal achievements have been made.
Raphael also found that at Gibb House, he always has someone who can help him if he is stuck with his study.
Whether it be help with English, Math, Science, or a range or different subjects, I always manage to find a staff member or student who is willing to lend a hand.
Raphael says there have been many exciting and enjoyable moments at Gibb House that he will always remember.
We once had a massive water fight. Our youngest boarders to the oldest were all involved in pelting water balloons at each other, but especially at the boarding staff. Towards the end of the water fight when everone was super drenched, Mr Bertram came out in a neat suit. We weren't going to let him look that sharp so before long he was drenched as well.
I have also learnt that I have to play my part as well to help others and look out for the younger boarders. There are plenty of opportunities for us to show our leadership skills, which I think is why Gibb House is always full of prefects.
If you are interested in boarding at Scots College, please click here to learn more.
Boarding Information Evenings
In March 2024 we will be visiting Blenheim, Nelson, and Hawke's Bay, to offer families the opportunity to meet our Principals and our boarding staff, and discuss the many academic, sporting, and cultural opportunities available to our students, as well as the onsite boarding facilities.
Registrations for our information evenings for 2024 are now open. Please click here to register.