Why choose an all-boys school for your son? There are myriad reasons: to minimize distractions; to help him focus on academics; to expand his interests; to remove gender stereotypes.
Still, it’s only natural to wonder if you’re making the right decision by enrolling your son in a single-sex environment. It’s necessary for young men to be able to work and play alongside women of all ages, and to respect the opposite sex, not just coexist. That’s why parents considering independent schools near Boston need to understand:
The junior boarding school environment isn’t truly all boys.
At a typical junior boarding school, the greater community of teachers, coaches, advisors, dorm parents, and staff comprises dozens of women. These women are accomplished scholars, educators, athletes, musicians, artists, professionals–as well as sisters and mothers. As many faculty and staff members make their home right on campus, boys have the chance to observe strong females within family systems. The women on campus are role models, acting as leaders, supporters, and nurturers. The men on campus fulfill these roles, as well; see, that’s the thing about an all-boys boarding community: there are no predetermined gender roles. Students are exposed to role models of both genders, while they also learn and explore their interests in a setting that removes the need to “posture” for peers of the opposite sex.
We understand what it means to be a boy.
While some parents may worry that all boys' schools create a rough atmosphere or are more conducive to braggadocio, competition, and/or bullying, we find it’s just the opposite.
Roles traditionally assumed by girls (the nurturer, the star of the school play, the poet) are filled by boys–because they have to be. There are no “boy things” and “girl things,” because everything is a boy thing. There are no stigmas (in fact, we find the female roles in our drama productions are the most sought-after!). Boys have the freedom to focus fully on their school work, and build self-esteem through athletics, art class–or whatever they’re into.
We provide meaningful interactions with girls.
Additionally, boys at many junior boarding schools have opportunities to interact with girls their own age. As an independent school near Boston,Fessenden is fortunate to be in close proximity to three girls’ schools and many co-ed schools. Our older boys perform community service projects with their female peers. We host girls at our socials and dances several times a year, and our boys get invited to these events at other schools, as well.
Fessenden fosters confidence that lasts beyond middle school.
We find this measured interaction with girls gives boys the independence and focus they need to thrive academically, experience a variety of roles and interests, and build confidence in these formative middle school years. This confidence follows them to secondary school and beyond, and helps them better navigate interpersonal relationships as they become developmentally ready.
The All Boys School Difference - Learn More Today!
Ready to see the benefits of an all boys boarding school? Plan your visit to The Fessenden School today or reach out today to learn more about our curriculums specifically for boys.
