A strong mind and a strong intellect is important, but it doesn’t stop there. In order for a boy to think well and to learn well, he needs to live well. Having a holistic approach by growing a strong body and a strong spirit, in addition to a strong mind, is key to raising up mature young men. Here’s why it’s important:
A strong mind
Having a strong mind is all about helping boys flourish in life. We grow their intellect so that they can have a sense of refinement and security, and develop courage and character so that they are on the front-foot in life. By sharpening a boy’s mind, we are enlarging their capacity to care for and support others.
A strong body
Our research shows that when a boy becomes stronger and fitter, there is a positive knock-on effect on their education. Developing a strong body is more than just participating in exercise, but it’s about teaching boys how to live a healthy lifestyle and to give them tools on how to be fit regardless of where they are in life. Physically, having boys work together also grows team skills that prepare them for succeeding in the workforce.
A strong spirit
A boy’s life is busy and is dominated by electronic stimulus, and so giving an opportunity for a him to pause, reflect, and contemplate life’s bigger questions can be very helpful. Developing a strong spirit is about supporting a boy in their journey of understanding who they are and where they fit into the world. It’s about encouraging them to be comfortable in their own skin. It’s teaching them to look after their internal wellbeing and finding a sense of peace through the ups and downs of life.
Boys get the sense that it’s more than just about materialism. Finding contentment, developing a relationship with others and a connection with God, and understanding that they’re a part of something bigger than themselves is important for them.
Being fully human
Boys are at different stages of maturation in each of these aspects. We need to identify where each boy is at, and become better at leading them through this journey in all aspects of his life. Our job is to help boys be confident in knowing themselves and what it takes to be fully human so that they can flourish in life.
For more information on how we look after the wellbeing of our students, download our Prospectus.
