studentfocus I love boarding because of the sense of community I chose to come to England to study as my parents had experienced about 20 years of life in England; we all chose Dean Close particularly because as Christians, we wanted a school that valued our faith for what it is and since my parents’ jobs involve quite a bit of travelling, boarding was always the only option (I’ve never had one regret though). I know this may sound overrated but I love boarding because of the sense of community you are blessed with when you’re not around your usual environment, when I am at school I am leading such a different life to mine in Nigeria. As a boarder, I usually eat with all my friends in the dining room during all mealtimes; activities vary all the time, depending on what is going around the world globally or what most members in the house want to do. My relationship with my housemistress is extremely amiable; we have that sense of security and trust as she understands when I do need comforting or not. Being able to expressively showcase myself emotionally, academically as well as through sport has been one of the great opportunities I’ve been privileged enough to experience. During my two years at Dean Close, I have been able to meet a wide variety of people and forged many new friendships. My relationships with my teachers is important and they have spent time with me on a personal level which I find very special. Ayomide – Boarder at Dean Close School. UK SCHOOLS DIRECTORY 2019/20 11