Building and nurturing relationships is the most important aspect of contemporary boarding, and Abbotsleigh runs a comprehensive orientation program to make new boarders feel comfortable.

There are buddy systems and a big sister/little sister program, plus the city family scheme matches boarders with a day school family in the same year group, offering further connections and support.

“Abbotsleigh provides a home away from home,” head of boarding Rochelle Wiley said.

“Our goal is to provide a happy, secure and fulfilling experience for all of our boarders.”

The annual boarder fun day is always an action-packed way for the boarding school to start the year. The girls are placed into teams where they compete in a series of action games to win points for their team. 

The afternoon is spent in the school’s Aquatic Centre, where the senior boarders organise further competitions and synchronised swimming routines judged by Mrs Wiley.

This feature is supported by: 

Competition is always fierce as the girls compete to win points to go towards the ‘battle of the houses’ competition.

Abbotsleigh boarders are also encouraged to follow their passions alongside their academic and co-curricular activities.

Year 11 student Skye Sylvester from Nundle was recently awarded champion secondary jumping champion and secondary champion rider for 2017 at the Equestrian NSW awards night. 

“I couldn’t have achieved these awards without such a talented horse,” Skye said.

“Magic and I have formed such a strong bond over the past three years.”

When she isn’t on her horse Skye takes part in plenty of other sports like softball, soccer, touch football and her favourite, hockey.

“Abbotsleigh offers an amazing hockey program, with extremely experienced coaches and very talented girls,” she said.