Caulfield Grammar: Boarders strike perfect sport-study balance

The move from Singapore to Melbourne for boarding school was worth it for this aspiring swimmer, even though Covid-19 disrupted her plans to compete on the world stage.

Having grown up in Singapore from the age of six, it’s understandable that becoming a boarder at an Australian school could require getting used to.

But for Year 10 student Raffaella Salthouse, her sister Amelie’s time as a boarder at Caulfield Grammar School’s Morcom House helped prepare her for the transition.

“Originally, I had planned to board at Caulfield Grammar from Year 11 like my sister, but Amelie told me lots of girls attend from Year 10 and it would be better for me to come a year earlier to develop good relationships before starting my final two critical years of school,” Raffaella said. “I completely agree and I’m really happy I took her advice.”

Balancing her final year studies with competition swimming, Raffaella found the school atmosphere helped her adjust to boarding life.

“While Covid-19 impacted my goals to compete in the Australian Age Nationals and the FINA World Cup in Singapore in front of family, I still enjoy swimming and try to do several sessions a week and appreciate the importance of balance as I’m quite focused on my studies,” she said.

Caulfield Grammar School offers boarding for students in Years 9-12.

Raffaella also said the expertise of her teachers helped her navigate the school’s curriculum, particularly her two favourite subjects, English and business management.

“My teachers are very proactive and responsive and take great pride in students’ achievement as a reflection on their efforts,” she said. “I think it’s a very supportive community and everyone is always keen and willing to look out for each other.”

Raffaella is also considering what she will do after school, and receiving support from the school to help her make career decisions.

“I’m looking forward to getting the Morrisby results soon and discussing these with the careers staff to fully explore courses and future career paths, before making any choices,” she said.

Her advice to students contemplating Caulfield Grammar boarding life is seize every opportunity.

“I would tell them to take every opportunity that comes their way and get involved,” she said.

Caulfield Grammar School offers boarding for students in Years 9-12.

(This correction is issued relating to Education magazine 2021, in which it incorrectly stated boarding was offered from Year 7).

Caulfield Grammar’s 2021 boarding fees are:

YEAR 7: Boarding not available.

YEAR 9: Tuition $32,475, Boarding $30,009, Total $62,484

YEAR 12: Tuition $33,084, Boarding $30,009, Total $63,093

To find out more about the school, phone [phone].

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