The Parnham family, from Coorow, chose Penrhos for their daughters and share their boarding experience from a rural perspective.
Did you have any hopes or concerns for your daughters when they first started as boarders?
Coming from a small school of 30 students, we hoped they would find a strong sense of support and genuine friendship.We wanted them to feel part of a community that would both challenge and nurture them. Of course, we were also a bit anxious, wondering how they’d adjust to a larger, more independent setting, and whether they’d feel at home away from family. But above all, we hoped that boarding would help them grow in confidence, resilience and self awareness.
How did your family adjust to the transition?
What helped our family was staying connected and informed. Weekly newsletters keep us updated on important events, reminders and what to expect, which helps us feel more organised and involved.The nightly FaceTime calls with the girls are a big source of comfort – they give us all a chance to stay emotionally connected, share our days and maintain a sense of routine and togetherness, even from a distance.
What have been the main benefits of boarding?
“Our daughters have gained so much from their time at Penrhos that they wouldn’t have experienced at home. The sporting opportunities have been incredible, they’ve been able to try new sports, train with experienced coaches and compete at a level that simply wouldn’t have been available locally.”
They’ve also built a wide variety of friendships with girls from different backgrounds, which has really broadened their perspective and helped them grow socially and emotionally in ways that a smaller, more familiar environment couldn’t offer.
What stands out to you about the boarding community at Penrhos?
One thing that has really stood out to us is how approachable and supportive the Penrhos staff are. From the very beginning, they’ve made both our daughters and our family feel welcomed and understood.Whether it’s a quick question or a bigger concern, there’s always someone willing to listen and help.That level of care and open communication has made a huge difference in helping our daughters settle in and thrive; it’s clear the staff genuinely care about the wellbeing of each student.
Do you have any advice for other rural families considering Penrhos as a boarding school?
Our biggest piece of advice would be to take advantage of the school tours.Visiting in person really helped us get a feel for the environment, meet the staff and see firsthand how warm and supportive the community is. It made the decision so much easier, knowing our daughters would be in a place where they’d be cared for and challenged. It’s a big step, but one that is truly worth it.
Jess and George Parnham
Coorow, WA
The Moore family, from Carnarvon, chose Penrhos for their daughters despite there being schooling options close to home.
What made you look into boarding, even though there are options closer to home?
Growing up in Carnarvon WA, both Jaimie and I experienced boarding life – me at Penrhos and Jaimie at an agricultural school – so it was always something we valued. I still remember how at home I felt on the Penrhos grounds and how much more it offered compared to a small-town school. From the time our girls were young, we’d talked about boarding and they were excited by the idea. We knew it could give them opportunities and life experiences they simply wouldn’t get locally.
What stood out about Penrhos that helped you make your decision?
For us, it was a combination of family tradition and the feeling of warmth the moment you walk through the gates, and the beautiful grounds.Penrhos offers a rich mix of academics,sport and personal development, and we knew it was the right environment for our girls to grow in confidence, develop their talents and embrace new possibilities.
How have your daughters settled into boarding? What do they enjoy most?
At first it was an adjustment with new routines, city life and being away from home but they’ve found their stride and are thriving. They enjoy the recreational activities, the friendships and the independence of having their own rooms to relax and recharge. The boarding staff are always finding new ways to keep the girls busy and engaged, which has helped them settle in quickly and to feel at home.
Have you noticed any changes in them that make you feel this was the right decision?
Absolutely. They’ve become more resilient, independent and confident. Boarding has helped them develop strong study routines, healthy daily habits and skills that will serve them well for life. Our eldest has also taken on opportunities she wouldn’t have had at home, including travelling to the USA for a Space Camp, earning her skipper’s and scuba diving tickets, and joining both the SAGA and Boarding Committees.
What would you say to other families who are on the fence about boarding because they have options nearby?
“Penrhos is more than just a school, it’s an experience you feel from the moment you join the community. The friendships, skills and memories last a lifetime, and the sense of belonging stays with you well beyond the school years.”
Our younger daughter, who is only eight now, is already looking forward to her turn as a Penrhos boarder and their brother will also be joining the Wesley boarding community, making it a shared family journey we hope will carry on for future generations.
Robyn and Jaimie Moore
Carnvarvon, WA
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