FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
About Boarding Schools
Despite the expense, boarding schools say that they are good value for money. Why?
Parents rarely add up how much it actually costs to have a child living at home. A detailed analysis of comparable costs and consideration of the time involved may make boarding less expensive than it seems at first!
Will a boarding education help my child qualify for higher education?
Boarding schools give children time for self-development, under supervision, and they emerge as self-assured individuals. If the school programme includes the needs of competitive exams, your child will be in a good position to qualify for higher education.
Who will provide a good role model and responsible influence over our child at boarding school?
It is the dorm staff that act as the day-to-day 'foster parents' to the children in their care, though all staff at the school contribute to the well being of pupils. Dorm staff work particularly closely with parents and guardians for the good of each child. The dorm staff essentially comprises of faculty who live on campus.
Is it easy for children to get used to boarding school life?
This depends on each child, and it is probably hardest for those leaving home for the first time. The challenge for them should not be underestimated, whatever their age. However, everyone is in the same position of being away from home, and usually the children adjust to their new home very well, taking not more than three to four weeks. Our sensitive and caring staff spare no effort in making children feel that it is a "home away from home".
What should my child take to school?
Not too much! Storage space is limited when sharing a room with other pupils. Some belongings (e.g. photos) to personalize their part of the bedroom are allowed. Younger children may like to bring a few favorite small toys. The list of items needed will be provided before the start of the school year.
Can they have their own music systems, computers and mobile phones?
We do not allow these items. Remember that at boarding school, pupils are living in a community, in shared bedrooms. Besides, a music system and TV are provided in the lounge.
What happens on the weekends?
On Saturday there are morning classes, and the afternoons are utilized for club activities. Sunday is a day for relaxation and rejuvenation with some planned outings occasionally. Other weekend activities include sports fixtures, social events, camps, treks, etc. Supervised outings in small groups with a teacher are allowed on Saturday afternoons.
Will my child get a varied and nutritional diet with enough to eat? More...
Yes. A trained dietician plans all meals with the correct balance of carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins and other food groups. Teachers who are seated with students during meals ensure that every child eats everything in sufficient quantity.
Please describe a day in the life of the boarder.
A typical day in the Life of a Boarder
What about homesickness?
Boarding school life is so busy that homesickness, when it does occur, rarely lasts for long. Other pupils, as well as staff, are supportive and sympathetic. The staff is very experienced at supporting children, and the Pastoral Co-ordinator has three decades of experience in dealing with problems of children in boarding schools. Caring adults and other pupils are understanding with children when they are upset, and are especially gentle with them.
When can we contact house staff?
Parents may contact the school for enquiries relating to their child during office hours (9:00 am till 6:00 pm on weekdays, and 9:00 am till 2:00 pm on Saturdays). In case of emergencies, they may contact the Principal or Dorm Parent directly.
Who arranges and buys tickets for travel? More...
The school organizes air and rail bookings for students, and students can be picked up and dropped at airports, with a teacher escort provided, if a prior request has been made. A bus facility is also provided from Mangalore and Bangalore to Chikmagalur.
Where can we buy the school uniform?
AVRS has a local outfitter on campus. Please contact school for details once admission procedures are completed.
What happens when there is a medical emergency?
The school has a resident medical assistant, a doctor on call and a tie up with hospitals in Chikmagalur and also in Bangalore.
How can parents stay in touch with their child?
Through letters and e-mails. There is also a designated time on Sundays when parents can speak to their children on the phone.
Can our child get specialist support outside class time?
Teachers contribute to the development and well being of the child in a variety of ways and in different circumstances every day. Remedial instruction is offered at Prep time during the week, and also during weekends.
What are the special features of the school?
AVRS has a warm and friendly atmosphere. Our well-qualified faculty is dedicated to molding young minds. A high staff-student ratio (1:10) ensures personal attention and monitoring of every child's progress.
- Emphasis given to developing synchrony with the environment
- Emphasis given to stimulating and promoting creativity
- Exciting new curriculum to make learning enjoyable
- Modern and well equipped laboratories
- Excellent sports facilities for cricket, hockey,
football (soccer), basketball, volley ball, tennis,
badminton, swimming, Yoga, meditation and martial arts
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