Rising Trend of Early Boarding Schools: Pros and Cons.
The growing trend of sending children as young as seven to boarding schools has ignited a heated debate. While some view this as a practical approach to education and childcare, experts caution about the significant emotional and psychological risks involved for young learners.
This issue has gained further attention due to the recent intervention by the Ministry of Education, which ordered the closure of boarding facilities in certain private schools that failed to meet safety regulations.
Historically, the intense academic demands of Kenya’s former 8-4-4 system, particularly the high-stakes Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) exams, led many primary schools to establish boarding facilities for Standard Seven and Eight students.
A parent in Nairobi shared that many private schools pressure parents to enroll children in boarding schools once they reach the final classes, providing more time for students and teachers to focus on academics.
Boarding Schools for Younger Children
However, this trend has extended to younger children, with some schools now offering boarding programs for nursery-age students. The director of a junior academy in Malava explained that, initially, they did not anticipate the demand for boarding facilities for young children.
However, many parents, particularly those with demanding work schedules, began requesting such services.
One parent, a saleslady, expressed that with her busy work life, boarding school had become a crucial support system, providing both her peace of mind and the assurance that her child was receiving a solid education.
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The growing demand for early boarding school experiences brings with it concerns about the emotional impact on children. A woman who joined boarding school at age 10, after her parents’ separation, reflected on how difficult the transition had been for her.
Coming from a home with domestic help and a driver, she found herself disoriented but learned responsibility and life skills, such as doing her own laundry. However, experts warn that not all children can adapt in the same way, especially when sent away at an early age.
Expert Concerns on Early Boarding
Child development experts, such as Dr. Gladys Libese, a clinical psychologist, have raised alarms about the effects of early boarding on children’s emotional and psychological well-being.
According to her, children under seven need a secure and loving environment to develop trust, and even between the ages of eight and twelve, parental guidance remains crucial. Dr. Libese emphasized that boarding schools should serve as a complement to, not a replacement for, parental involvement.
She also recommended maintaining emotional connections through regular visits and communication, as boarding schools, while promoting independence, must provide a nurturing environment for emotional and academic growth.
Sociologist Dr. Francis Amboka also warned of the long-term effects on children sent to boarding schools too early. He explained that bonding begins within the family, and when children are sent away at a young age, they may feel abandoned, which could lead to low self-esteem and emotional challenges.
Therapist Dennis Amukambwa echoed these concerns, stating that children under 13 may struggle with the absence of their parents, potentially developing a skewed sense of self-worth based on academic performance, which can lead to anxiety and burnout.
Parental Concerns and Regret
Not all parents are comfortable with the decision to send their children to boarding school at a young age.
One teacher regretted enrolling her son in boarding school at age 10, realizing that he was too young to cope with the pressures and lessons that such an environment entailed. She recognized that there were important lessons she should have taught him at home before introducing him to boarding school life.
Government and Expert Reactions to Boarding Schools
In 2022, Kenya’s Education Principal Secretary announced plans to phase out boarding facilities for children in Grades 1 to 9, stressing the importance of family-based upbringing.
He argued that children should be raised by their families rather than being sent to boarding schools.
However, the decision was reversed by the then Education Cabinet Secretary, who pointed out that in areas with nomadic populations, such as the ASAL regions, closing boarding schools would deprive children of access to education.
Academic experts like Prof. John Shiundu of Masinde Muliro University echoed the sentiment, stating that children should not be separated from their parents during crucial developmental years.
The Chair of the National Parents Association criticized the inadequate number of public schools as the root cause of the growing demand for boarding schools.
He argued that while boarding schools may promise quality education, they often fail to meet the broader developmental needs of children. According to him, the family remains a child’s most important school.
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Kenya’s boarding schools have recently come under scrutiny following several incidents of unrest, including over 100 school fires in 2024.
The Education Cabinet Secretary linked these tragedies to strained relationships between students and school administrators, asserting that when children are sent away too early, they lack the emotional foundation needed for a healthy relationship with their environment, which can lead to rebellion and unrest.
Rising Trend of Early Boarding Schools: Pros and Cons.
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