Home of the Tigers

Stonehill Boarding Newsletter

Volume 3, Issue 2, June 2024

It has been wonderful to see the inclusion of many new community outreach initiatives this year, with Stonehill United, Puttenahalli Lake Clean-up, Eldercare, Furry Friends, and Global Citizenship clubs. These initiatives demonstrated our commitment to making a positive impact beyond our campus and fostered a sense of responsibility and empathy among our students.

Stonehill International School Furry Friends

Stonehill International School at Elder Care

With the increase in boarding numbers each year, the construction of the 4th Boarding House is nearing completion. This facility will accommodate secondary boys and will be operational in the new academic year. On the ground floor, there is a spacious recreational area, complete with an attached lounge. Currently, we are exploring the possibility of converting the fitness room into a music room.

I would like to thank the boarding House Parents, Non-resident Tutors, Medical Team, Catering, and Support Staff for their enthusiasm and hard work they have put in this academic year. Whether assisting with studies, organising engaging activities, learning a new skill, providing emotional and medical support, serving nutritious meals, or maintaining a safe and comfortable environment, you have consistently gone above and beyond to ensure our students receive the care they need. Most importantly, thank you to the students and their families for their contribution to the success of the boarding community.

Thank you, Vedaa, D1, for your time and hard work in putting this newsletter together, and to all the students whose contributions have made it possible. This newsletter is a testament to the collaborative spirit of our community, where students have a voice and the opportunity to share their experiences, achievements, and insights. Your contributions have truly made this newsletter a reflection of the vibrant and diverse talents within our boarding.

I would like to wish you all a fabulous summer holiday and look forward to welcoming you back, refreshed and energised, for another fantastic year ahead.

Best wishes,

Glen Johnson

Head of Boarding

What's been happening at Stonehill Boarding?

As we near the end of another academic year, it's time to reflect on the remarkable achievements and experiences of this semester. We can reminisce about the many great memories and exciting events we've experienced, from the Christmas and Annual Boarding dinners to the Inter-house football, basketball, and badminton tournaments, weekend activities and the wellness programme. From academic excellence to acts of service and adventures beyond the classroom, the spirit of global citizenship and the pursuit of personal growth continue to thrive within our boarding family.

Boarder Speak

Embracing Change: My Journey of Growth as a New Student in Boarding at Stonehill

Adjusting as a new student in boarding at Stonehill was a transformative experience that did more than just push me out of my comfort zone. It helped me grow in ways I never imagined. The first few days were a whirlwind of new faces and unfamiliar routines, but my excitement of exploring a new environment grew. However, along with the excitement came the challenges of homesickness and adapting to a new way of life.

Living in the boarding house meant learning to be independent, managing my time effectively, and navigating the complexities of communal living. It was a steep learning curve, but one that I embraced wholeheartedly.

I quickly learned to lean on my classmates and teachers for support, forming deep and meaningful connections that helped me feel more at home. One of the most rewarding aspects of my experience was the diversity of the school community. Interacting with students from different backgrounds and cultures broadened my perspective.

Boarding is a place where friendships flourish. I shared laughter and tears, and formed bonds that will last a lifetime. Whether it was celebrating victories on the sports field or consoling each other during moments of doubt, I knew that I had a support system unlike any other.

Stonehill Boarding’s commitment to experiential learning provided countless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Whether it was embarking on fitness activities inside and outside of boarding, participating in service-learning projects, or delving into a new hobby, every experience was a chance to step outside my comfort zone and embrace the unknown.

These experiences not only fostered resilience and adaptability but also instilled a sense of wonder and curiosity that continues to drive my thirst for knowledge and new experiences.

Birds On Stonehilll Campus

The Stonehill Campus has become a haven for a variety of bird species, thanks to the collaborative efforts of students and the local community. The avian residents are the Red Whiskered Bulbul, Spotted Doves, Hummingbirds, Indian Mynas, and the beloved Sparrow. These feathered inhabitants have found a welcoming environment due to the installation of feeding bowls and water stations strategically placed around the campus.

Red-whiskered Bulbul

The presence of the Red Whiskered Bulbul adds a touch of exotic beauty to the campus landscape. These small, olive-brown birds with distinctive whisker-like feathers around their faces are native to Southeast Asia. Their melodious calls can often be heard echoing through the corridors of trees, adding a serene ambience to the surroundings.

Spotted Doves

The gentle Spotted Doves with their soft cooing calls evoke a sense of tranquillity. These birds, adorned with subtle speckles on their feathers, have made themselves at home amidst the greenery of Stonehill, finding solace in the quiet corners of the campus.

Indian Myna

The Indian Myna, with its bold personality and striking black and white plumage, has also taken up residence on campus. Known for their intelligence and adaptability, these birds have found ample food and shelter within the welcoming embrace of Stonehill's grounds.

Hummingbird

The vibrant flashes of Hummingbirds bring bursts of colour and energy to the scene. These tiny marvels of nature, with their iridescent plumage and lightning-fast wings, dart gracefully from flower to flower, sipping nectar and pollinating as they go.

Sparrow

Last but certainly not least, the humble Sparrow, once a common sight in urban areas but now facing decline in many regions, has found a sanctuary around boarding houses. With feeding bowls and water readily available, these small yet resilient birds have found a place to thrive amidst the hustle and bustle of campus life.

The efforts of both students and the community have created an environment where birds of all kinds can flourish. As the campus continues to prioritise sustainability and environmental stewardship, the birds of Stonehill will undoubtedly continue to grace its skies with their presence for years to come.

Let's Talk

Teachers Who Stepped Up - An Ode to Mr. Elvis, Interim Boarding House Parent

Reflecting on your six months as a boarding parent, what were some of the most rewarding aspects of the role for you?

The most rewarding aspects of being a boarding parent were witnessing student growth, building strong relationships, and providing a supportive environment. It also meant forming bonds built on trust, respect, and care that helped me create a sense of family within the boarding community, as well as creating a safe, nurturing space where students feel valued, heard, and encouraged.

Can you share a specific moment or experience during your tenure that stands out to you as particularly meaningful or impactful?

One particularly meaningful and impactful experience with a student during my tenure as a boarding parent stands out. It involved a student who was struggling academically and socially due to feelings of self-doubt and low confidence. I noticed that this student had a passion for design but needed more belief in his abilities. So, I created a supportive environment where he could explore his skills without fear of judgement or failure. I spent extra time with the student, providing guidance and encouragement as he worked on a design project. I praised his efforts and celebrated his progress, no matter how small. Slowly but steadily, I saw his confidence grow.

How did you approach building relationships with the students under your care during these six months?

I cultivated relationships with students by being approachable and empathetic, fostering trust and open communication. Actively engaging in their lives allowed me to understand their needs and concerns, building rapport and mutual respect.

By creating a supportive environment based on trust and understanding, I empowered students to confide in me and seek guidance when needed. This approach facilitated meaningful connections and contributed to a positive boarding experience for both students and myself.

Reflecting on your initial expectations, how did the reality of serving as a boarding parent compare? Were there any surprises along the way?

Serving as a boarding parent proved to be a deeply enriching experience that exceeded my initial expectations in numerous ways. One of the most surprising aspects was the depth of the emotional connection I formed with students. Witnessing their growth, sharing in their triumphs and struggles, and being a source of support and guidance forged strong bonds.

Furthermore, I was pleasantly surprised by the rewarding nature of the role. From celebrating their achievements to providing comfort during challenging times, the gratitude they expressed made every effort worthwhile. Overall, the journey of being a boarding parent surpassed any preconceived notions I had, leaving me profoundly fulfilled and grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the young individuals under my care.

Is there anything else you would like to add ?

As I conclude my role, I extend my gratitude to Mr. Glen, who always trusted in my abilities, the entire co-working staff and the students for giving me the opportunity to serve them as a boarding parent. I wish everyone continued success and growth.

Vedaa, D1

Introducing Our New Boarding Parents - Ms. Renuga and Mr. Yuvaraj

We're so excited to welcome you to Stonehill Boarding. Please share a bit about yourself.

Thank you, we are looking forward to joining Stonehill Boarding.

We began our careers in the IT sector and worked in the industry for ten years. We were interested in education and childhood development, so we decided to change course and start our journey in this field, volunteering at Isha Home School, Coimbatore. During our eleven years at the school, we had the opportunity to take on teaching, house parenting and leadership roles.

Can you share your experience working in a boarding environment, and how it has prepared you for the role of boarding parents?

We had the opportunity to work in a boarding environment with teachers and students of several cultures and nationalities. As House Parents, we faced many interesting and challenging situations which gave us the experience and knowledge to create and nurture an inclusive and safe environment for our boarders to thrive in.

How do you approach building a supportive and inclusive community within the boarding house?

Encouraging boarders to be observant of the sensibilities of their peers and enhancing healthy communication is key to building trust and creating a sense of belonging.

Stonehill International School Boarding Parents

In the Spotlight

At Stonehill Boarding, some of our over achieving boarders consistently set the bar for excellence across various disciplines. Whether excelling in academics, sports, or extracurricular activities, these students demonstrate unparalleled dedication and skill.

Here are two boarders whose achievements are a testament to their hard work, perseverance, and the supportive environment provided by the boarding community. Their accomplishments inspire their peers and they exemplify the core values of Stonehill, fostering a spirit of resilience that permeates the entire boarding experience.

Sumair Shines as Football Prodigy with His Achievements in Under 17 Category

Throughout this academic year, Sumair, D1, has achieved remarkable success in his passion for football. He has demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication as a member of the first team in the Under 17 category at the prestigious Alchemy Football Academy. Representing Alchemy in the highly competitive Under 17 AIFF Youth League, he has showcased his talent on a significant platform. Furthermore, Sumair clinched the title of Karnataka State Football Association Champion, solidifying his position as a state-level standout.

Notably, Sumair's contributions to his team have been recognised with the Double Pass Development League (DPDL) Man of the Match award, earned through his outstanding performances in scoring and assisting goals. His prowess on the field extends beyond local competitions, as he has also proudly represented his team in the Dream Sports Championship, further illustrating his versatility and commitment to the sport.

Jehan Advances in National Schools Debate Sessions with the Indian Schools Debating Society

Jehan has been selected to progress in the National Schools Debate Sessions from the Indian Schools

Debating Society (ISDS). ISDS is India’s largest and most successful non-profit debate education organisation reaching thousands of students across 15+ cities in India every year.

For this, he attended a wide range of sessions throughout May, from decoding Popular Culture, US and China’s Tech Race and Contemporary Indian Politics to Examining trends in Social media and Global Conflicts and Ongoing Responses.

Through this, he learnt how to think critically, communicate effectively and lead with courage.

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