Boarding

Overview of Gordonstoun School

Located in Moray, Scotland, Gordonstoun School is recognized for its comprehensive boarding life and facilities, focusing on a holistic educational approach. This method is not only aimed at academic excellence but also at fostering personal growth, resilience, and community spirit. The school’s motto, “Plus est en vous” (There is more in you), reflects its commitment to unlocking each student’s potential.

Extracurricular Activities

Gordonstoun offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, essential to its educational philosophy. The school is particularly noted for its unique outdoor education program, which includes expeditions, sail training voyages, and leadership opportunities. These activities help broaden students’ perspectives, enhance their social responsibility, and build resilience. Additionally, the school promotes community service, with students from Year 11 onwards committing to one of the school’s nine service options, reinforcing their sense of duty and community engagement.

Dormitories

About 85% of the senior school students are boarders, integrated into one of eight boarding houses that provide a supportive and family-like environment. Each house is staffed with a team of Housemistresses, Housemasters, Assistant Housemasters, and Matrons dedicated to students’ welfare. This close-knit community helps ensure that all students feel valued and supported throughout their educational journey.

Meals

While specific details are sparse, Gordonstoun’s boarding facilities suggest a well-managed meal system that caters to students’ nutritional needs. Meals are likely organized as communal activities, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among students, which is central to the school’s community-focused ethos.

Recreational Facilities

Gordonstoun prides itself on its extensive recreational facilities, which include a new state-of-the-art sports center and a performing arts department. These facilities accommodate a variety of sports and activities such as rugby, hockey, cricket, theater, and dance, ensuring that students have ample opportunity for physical and creative expression.

Academic Support

Academic success is a cornerstone of Gordonstoun’s approach, with the school offering a diverse curriculum that prepares students for GCSEs, A-Levels, and BTEC qualifications. For students requiring additional help, there is a Learning Support Department and an English as an Additional Language (EAL) department for international students. The support provided is tailored to meet individual needs, enabling every student to reach their academic potential.

Conclusion

Gordonstoun School provides a rich and nurturing environment through its diverse extracurricular activities, inclusive dormitory life, comprehensive meal system, state-of-the-art recreational facilities, and robust academic support. This holistic approach ensures that students are well-prepared to make a positive impact in the world, fully embracing the ethos that “there is more in you.”