Our Boarding Schools Expos bring schools and families together, face-to-face, in the heart of regional Australia. These events give parents the chance to explore options, ask questions and build connections in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Whether boarding is a brand-new idea or part of a family tradition, you’ll leave informed, supported and confident in your next steps.
As rural people ourselves, we understand the journey you’re on. Amanda, the Director of The Boarding School Collective, lives on the western plains of NSW, and sent three children to boarding school. From the moment you arrive at a Boarding Schools Expo, Amanda and her team will welcome you with the warmth and understanding that comes from lived experience. Every family receives a gift bag filled with resources before stepping through the doors to meet the schools, each excited to connect with you and proud to visit your region. Schools genuinely understand the challenges rural, regional and remote families face – from distance to financial pressures – and are ready to listen, answer questions, and share opportunities.
At our full two-day expos, held in larger regional centres, you can expect even more. Families can join our Live Q&A panels featuring future, current and past parents, who share their stories honestly and with heart – real conversations and real answers that help you feel supported in your decision-making. You’ll also have the chance to participate in our School of the Expo competition, where families vote for their top five exhibiting schools and go into the draw to win $1,000.
In smaller or more remote areas, our pop-up expos offer a compact yet welcoming format with a select number of schools – ensuring everyone has access to information, no matter where they live. At either format you’ll leave with a range of information, gift bags from the schools and an energised sense of confidence ready to explore your options.
Vote for
your favourite school
at an expo for a chance
to WIN $1,000!
The School of the EXPO Award is one of the most engaging initiatives of our events, and it’s driven entirely by the families who attend. Families are invited to vote for the schools that stand out to them on three simple but powerful measures: the friendliness of the school representatives, the presentation of the booth, and the depth of knowledge shown about boarding life at your school.
For schools, this award is a unique opportunity to see your Expo presence through the eyes of families. It highlights the importance of sending the “right” person to represent your school – someone warm, approachable, and knowledgeable who can create lasting impressions and encourage families to continue the conversation long after the Expo ends.
Engaged families are the families who enrol, and this award is designed to spark those deeper discussions between parents, children, and your representatives. Beyond recognition from families, there is a tangible benefit for your school: the winning exhibitor at each event receives a free registration for the following year’s Expo.
This initiative not only fosters healthy competition but also rewards excellence in connection, presentation, and engagement – the very qualities that make families choose your school.
Explore our extensive school directory.
$10,000 Boarding School Gift
Share your story for the chance to receive a $10,000 contribution toward boarding school fees.
Created to support rural, regional and remote families as they plan the next chapter for their children. Open to families with children currently in Year 3 and above, and to those already on their boarding journey, this competition celebrates the courage it takes to look beyond your postcode and pursue opportunity. Entries close Friday 5 December 2025
Join the Circle
Be part of the community
Connect with fellow boarding school families, and share in a collective of wisdom, support and love.