Boarding at The Downs Malvern is about far more than simply having a place to stay. It is about friendships, independence, adventure and being part of a welcoming community. Three of our boarders share their experiences, from settling into life away from home to making memories through activities, trips and everyday moments with friends.
How long have you been boarding at The Downs Malvern, and what made you decide to try it?
Leyla: I’ve been boarding here since Year 5. I came here for a taster first and it was such a nice community that I decided to stay! As a Forces boarder, I love having a stable home, without having to move around like I used to.
Taiki: I have been boarding since September 2025.
I am from Tokyo in Japan, so it is very different here! Tokyo is a very big city, but here I like the fresh air. I was keen to try boarding in another country. My mum used to be a cabin attendant, so she travelled a lot and knew about Britain. She talked about it quite a lot.
What does a typical weekend look like for boarders?
Leyla: On Saturdays, we get up at 7.45am and head down to breakfast, where there are lots of different choices. Afterwards, we take part in Saturday Hobbies with the day pupils from the Prep School. You can do everything from mountain biking and art to working on the Downs Light Railway.
After that, we have lunch and then, if we don’t have sports matches or training, we come back up to the boarding house to relax. There are lots of games and things to do. We have supper in the evening and might watch a movie together afterwards.
What trips and activities have you especially enjoyed?
Penny: On Sundays, we go on lots of trips throughout the year. The trips I’ve enjoyed most have been Drayton Manor and shopping, and we also do a lot of adventure activities like Aztec Adventure waterpark. It’s great fun.
Aztec Adventure
How easy is it to make friends in the boarding house?
Leyla: It’s quite easy, because when you first join, you have buddies who look after you. You get to know everyone quickly because you spend a lot of time with them.
Have you tried anything new since coming here?
Taiki: Yes, lots. I’ve really enjoyed the sports. My favourite is football, but I like rugby now too.
Has boarding helped you become more independent?
Penny: Definitely! In the past, I felt like I always needed someone else to help me, but boarding teaches you how to manage things yourself, which has made me more confident.
What would you say to someone who is thinking about trying boarding for the first time?
Penny: I’d tell them not to worry. At first, you might feel a bit homesick, but we have brilliant houseparents here and all of the children are keen to help you and make it easy.
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