Live Q&A Sessions
Real conversations about boarding school

Our video library brings together the heart of our work – real families, real conversations, real connection. From Live Q&A panels at our Expos to in-depth Summit discussions, these videos showcase the voices and experiences that matter most. Parents, past boarders, current boarders and experts share openly and authentically, tackling the questions families want answered and the stories schools need to hear. Each conversation is designed to empower families with confidence in their decisions, while deepening the connection between bush communities and boarding schools.

Real Conversations About Boarding School

Beginning with Mount Isa at the end of 2024 we launched our Live Q&A panel discussions at many of our events. Here’s the recording at

Scholarships and Bursaries… the ins and outs for families

No-one likes talking about the financial side of things, but it’s one of the most important investments a family can make so it’s a vital

Scholarships and Bursaries – from a student’s POV

A student panel discusses scholarship opportunity, responsibility, and giving back, exploring pride in bursaries and the rural boarding experience, facilitated by Ruby Riethmuller with insights

Academics, country kids and the art of encouragement bridging the great divide

here is often a concern, particularly when a student is coming from a remote school situation where perhaps academic exercise isn’t as rigorous – will

Bridging the Great Divide… lead up to, and managing boarding school

Ruby Riethmuller hosts a panel discussion with students from Abbotsleigh (Sydney), Haileybury Rendall School (Darwin) and Calrossy Anglican School, (Tamworth)

Big or Small… Does size really matter?

We’re exploring whether size actually matters when it comes to boarding schools – and we’re including this topic because we so often hear perceptions of

Big or Small boarding cohorts from a student’s POV

Ruby Riethmuller hosts a panel discussion with students from SCOTS PGC College, (Warwick QLD), Wenona School (Sydney NSW) and Pymble Ladies’ College (Sydney, NSW)

The emotional rollercoaster of teen life

How well are boarding staff equipped to support boarding students? The questions you should ask any school you’re considering what will help you decide if

Money – The big one

How to plan financially for your child’s education, manage through the years at boarding school and find out where you can get support.

Country culture in the boarding house

We discuss the influence rural, remote and regional kids have on boarding schools and how country culture impacts the broader school community.

Friendships and support within the boarding house

Ruby Riethmuller talks to boarding students from NSW, QLD and NT schools about the unique experiences and bonds formed in boarding school.

The best of country culture in the boarding house

Ruby Riethmuller talks to boarding students from rural and regional areas about the wide variety of activities and opportunities available when you live on campus.

Building communities away from the place we call home

Jen Cowley OAM and a panel of parents and boarding school staff explore how to get the most out of your boarding school journey –

Boarding School… But how are we going to pay for it?

Representatives from boarding schools, education foundations, Indigenous scholarship providers and investment companies discuss how to pay for boarding school.

How are Australian boarding schools lifting their game?

Join Jen Cowley OAM and key industry professionals as they discuss the professional capabilities of staff; mental health management; nutrition and physical health.

The value of educational opportunities for rural and remote students

Jen Cowley OAM talks to Peter Gibbs, James Cleaver and Fiona Nash about the value of educational opportunities for rural and remote students.

Student interviews with Ruby Riethmuller

Ruby Riethmuller talks to Boarding Schools Students from Wenona, Loreto Normanhurst, Haileybury Rendall School, The King’s School, Abbotsleigh, PLC Sydney and Farrer Memorial Agricultural High

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Expo activities

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your favourite school
at an expo for a chance
to WIN $1,000!

From panel experts, to scholarship opportunities, to prizes

The School of the EXPO Award celebrates genuine connection between families and schools. Voted on by families attending each event, the award recognises schools that stand out for their friendliness, presentation, and knowledge of boarding life. It’s a fun, interactive way for families – and their children – to engage with the schools in the room, while giving exhibitors valuable feedback on what resonates most. Each winning school receives a free registration for the following year’s Expo in recognition of their excellence.

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