Thank you to the seven parents/caregivers that joined a group Zoom meeting with the Education Review Officers back in February, to answer questions on the culture and life in general within Argyle House from a parents’ perspective. Your feedback to the ERO team, accompanied with the 12 boarders across Years 9-13 that were interviewed over a one-hour period later that morning, provided the ERO team with a detailed understanding of life within Argyle House. Thank you for your loyalty and support of our systems and structures in place to provide the necessary care for all of our boys.

The Board of Trustees has received the report. It reads:

Background

The Chief Review Officer has the authority to carry out reviews (which may be general or in relation to particular matters) of the provision of a safe physical and emotional environment that supports learning for students accommodated in hostels under section 470 of the Education and Training Act 2020. This function is delegated to review officers who have the powers to enter and carry out review of hostels under section 472 of the Act.

Findings:

The hostel manager and the hostel owner has attested in the Hostel Assurance Statement that they meet the requirements of the Hostel Regulations 2005.

Boarders at Hamilton Boys’ High School are provided with a safe physical and emotional environment that supports their learning. Students feel well supported by boarding staff and have a strong sense of belonging and brotherhood. Clear processes and expectations promote students’ learning and wellbeing.

Hostel life includes a range of leisure and social activities, and boys are provided with increasing opportunities for leadership and growing independence as they move into the senior school.

Shelley Booysen

Director of Schools