Notes from Wellington Tianjin Boarding House – Benson

With Benson - Boarding House of Wellington College International Tianjin, formally opened in August 2013, we have had 9 boarders settled down here with Housemaster Mr. Tim Spink and Housemistress Ms. Natalie Steer. They spend the time together after school life and do many activities together to enable everyone know each other very well. The students also have found the time they need to concentrate on their studies, with their rooms specially designed to create a working environment. There is this superb area in the basement to relax and play games and this has become a hub of activity most evenings.

Here are two accounts from our boarders to give you a taste of what boarding life is like:

“During the 4 weeks in our boarding house, I have made plenty of boarding house friends. Everyone here is really kind and full of warmth, so we are very comfortable here. We always play in the basement, we have so many laughs there. During our time together, we have learnt how to work as part of a team. For example, when we play foosball, we always play with unity and no matter the winner we all celebrate. We also play table tennis and billiards which my friends have taught me to play. I share a room with Annie and we have made our room very warm and sweet, just like our own home. Before we started our after school activities, we did some activities together. We went ice skating in Joy City, whenever we tripped, we all laughed – we have sweet memories there. We also went out for ice cream which was great. It is so much fun at the boarding house, we hope our fantastic future in boarding house will continue and our smiles continue to grow. “

— Melody

“I’m Annie, a girl from Harbin in the northern part of China. I had never boarded until I came to Wellington. During these four weeks in the boarding house, I have got to know a number of classmates and teachers who are full of compassion, and we’re now becoming good friends. I had never imagined that before. Everyone here is so warm-hearted and lovely that it seems like I’m still staying in my home in Harbin. We also have many laughs here: swimming, badminton, rounders, as well as foosball, we make progress together. Both girls and boys, we enjoy our time everyday here. We spend so much wonderful time together, we even celebrated an unforgettable birthday party for my friend, Melody. Everyday here is very simple but meaningful. And I’m looking forwards to many more fantastic times here!”

— Annie