The Future of Boarding conference

🏷️ From £235
🎧
📍 Online

Course overview:

The Future of Boarding Conference brings together sector leaders and practitioners to explore how boarding schools can evolve to meet the needs of the next generation. Through a series of forward-thinking sessions, the conference will examine long-term strategic planning, emerging mental health trends, and the future of recruitment in an increasingly competitive global landscape. 

Delegates will also explore how boarding environments and spaces must adapt to support wellbeing, community, and changing student expectations. With a focus on innovation, resilience, and sustainability, this conference offers practical insights and big-picture thinking to help schools future-proof their boarding provision for the years ahead.

Programme: 

Session 1. 10:00 – 11:00. Planning for 2036. What do boarding schools need to do now to plan for the future? 

This forward-thinking session explores what boarding schools need to consider today to remain relevant and successful in 2036. It will examine emerging trends in education, student expectations, technology, and wellbeing, alongside the evolving global landscape. Delegates will gain practical insights into strategic planning, innovation, and long-term decision-making to help future-proof their boarding provision. 

Speaker – David Walker. 

Session 2. 11:15 – 12:15. Upcoming mental health trends. 

This session will explore emerging mental health trends affecting young people and what they mean for boarding schools. Drawing on current research and frontline experience, it will highlight key challenges, early indicators, and evolving needs in student wellbeing. Delegates will gain practical insight into how to adapt pastoral care, strengthen support systems, and respond proactively to ensure pupils are supported in an ever-changing mental health landscape.

Speaker:

Session 3. 13:15 – 14:15. The future of boarding recruitment 

This session will explore how boarding recruitment is evolving and what schools need to do to remain competitive in a changing global market. It will consider shifting parent expectations, the role of agents, emerging markets, and the increasing importance of digital engagement. Delegates will gain practical insights into developing effective, future-focused recruitment strategies to attract and retain students in the years ahead. 

Speakers: Guy Schady-Beckett and Fiona Hughes D’Aeth

Session 4. 14:15 – 15:30. Future of boarding spaces 

This session will explore how boarding spaces need to evolve to meet the expectations of future generations. It will consider the balance between privacy and community, the role of design in supporting wellbeing, and how spaces can adapt to changing lifestyles, technology, and student needs. Delegates will gain insight into creating flexible, inclusive, and future-ready environments that enhance the boarding experience. 

Speakers: Noble and Eaton 

Session 5. 15:45 – 16:30. Closing keynote   

This closing keynote will bring together the key themes of the conference, offering a forward-looking perspective on the future of boarding. It will reflect on the insights shared throughout the day and challenge delegates to think strategically about the opportunities and responsibilities ahead. Attendees will leave with renewed clarity, inspiration, and practical takeaways to support their next steps. 

Speaker: David Woodgate, ISBA

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