With the launch of a new book about boarding the twenty-first century and the start of a high profile independent schools conference in York, ALEX LLOYD talks to some modern day boarders about school life.

IF your opinion of boarding has been informed by Enid Blyton's Mallory Towers series then Rose Hiney is on a mission to change your mind with her new book, Being A Boarder.

Launched yesterday, the book by this former boarder is written for children and teenagers thinking of boarding, addressing their concerns and expectations.

The number of children and families choosing the boarding option has quietly risen in recent years and the Boarding School's Association claim that increasing numbers of sixth formers are boarding as a preparation for university life.

St Peter's School in York has about 140 boarders aged from eight to 18, and staff and students there have greeted the new book enthusiastically.

Simon Marriott, deputy headmaster, believes people often overlook the significant educational advantages that boarding offers students.

"Children can sometimes travel for an hour each way to get to a really good school, and this can impact on their homework or their chances to get involved in extra-curricular activities. It is also very tiring.

"Boarding is much more flexible these days and many pupils go home at weekends or for a special night out. The children here are remarkably self-confident."

Jennie Atkinson, 16, moved to St Peter's at the start of term. She was previously a day pupil at Pocklington School.

Jennie, whose brother and parents have all boarded, decided to board in York because she wanted to experience city life.

"It has been really good so far," she said. "The others help you to settle in and you get support from the older pupils."

Peter Townson, 17, began boarding five years ago at the wish of his parents, who live in the Middle East.

He said: "I really didn't want to come here at first, but I am very grateful to my parents for making me do it.

"I had certain perceptions about boarding schools before I came, but I have never known of anything bad going on."

With a father in the armed forces, James Bennett chose boarding school so he didn't have to move to Cyprus.

James, 17, says boarding has allowed him to develop a close relationship and a respect for his teachers that he would not have had as a day pupil.

"You do get homesickness, but boarding makes you very independent. You really have to experience it to understand."

The boarders at St Peter's are all planning to take a look at the book and Mr Marriott is very supportive of its aims.

"The author has worked very hard with this book and what it is doing is addressing the concerns of the children. It is very practical advice.

"We really believe that children here get the best of both worlds, receiving a supportive family environment at home and in school. For some, school is a source of stability."

Updated: 09:21 Wednesday, September 24, 2003