For many boys, joining the Xavier College Boarding House is the beginning of an exciting new chapter, one filled with opportunity, growth, friendship, and independence. In the heart of Kew, Xavier’s Boarding House offers more than just a place to live during the school term. It provides a vibrant and supportive home away from home, where boys from Years 9 to 12 are encouraged to make the most of everything Xavier has to offer while building strong connections, confidence, and a genuine sense of belonging.
A defining strength of boarding at Xavier is the sense of belonging it creates. Boys live alongside one another, study together, share meals and support each other through the rhythms of school life. Lifelong friendships are formed, particularly among students from rural and regional communities, who find comfort in living with boys who understand their background and experience. The wellbeing of each boarder is also supported through dedicated care, including a full-time staff member and counsellor focused specifically on boarding wellbeing, helping to ensure boys feel known, supported and cared for throughout their time in the Boarding House.
Griffith local Jacob Dalo, now in Year 11, joined the Xavier Boarding House in Year 10 last year. Like many new boarders, Jacob had to adjust to a different way of living, but he quickly found his place.
“Starting boarding was a big change at first, but it didn’t take long to settle in,” Jacob says. “Everyone was really welcoming, and being around other country boys made it easier because we were all in a similar position. I’ve made some really strong friendships here, and that has been one of the best parts of boarding. Living, studying and spending time together means you get to know people quickly, and those friendships become a big part of what makes the experience so enjoyable.”
That balance of academic support and social connection is a key part of the Xavier Boarding experience. On-campus living means boys have convenient access to a wide range of school amenities, including the library, pool, gym and sporting grounds. This makes it easier for students to manage their studies, commit to co-curricular activities and enjoy a well-rounded school life.
Xavier Boarding also offers extensive academic support and a strong study culture to help students thrive. Boarders complete two study sessions most nights, with a break in between, and they benefit from the routine and structure this provides. The program includes extensive homework support, with Boarding Staff and Magis Scholars available to assist during study sessions and encourage boys to seek help whenever needed. Magis Scholars are available in the library and in Boarders’ Study each school night, offering support across a range of subjects. In addition, specialised morning programs run by Maths and English teachers provide further guidance to students across all year levels, reinforcing Xavier’s strong commitment to academic growth and achievement.
For Jacob, who enjoys touch football, the location and structure of boarding have been a real advantage.
“It’s great being at the Boarding House because I can go straight to training after school without having to travel anywhere,” he says. “There’s always something happening, and on weekends there are fun activities that make boarding enjoyable. It’s a really good mix of routine, independence and having things to look forward to.”
Boarding at Xavier is about much more than accommodation. It is about creating an environment where boys feel known, supported and encouraged to grow in confidence, character and independence whilst preparing them for life beyond school.
Xavier College is a Catholic school founded in 1878, with a unique Jesuit identity that grounds boys in values and inspires them to be men for others, acting in faith, for justice, and with dignity, humility and respect. Xavier is a founding member of the Associated Public Schools of Victoria, and students in Years 7 to 12 compete weekly against 11 other member schools across a wide range of sports throughout the year. In 2028, Xavier will mark 150 years of developing exceptional graduates through inspiring learning experiences.
Xavier College, alongside sister school Genazzano, are holding a Boarding information evening at 5:45pm on Friday 15 May 2026 at Harvest HQ, 125-127 Banna Avenue, Griffith NSW. Please join us to hear about the Boarding experience from key staff with drinks to follow. Bookings are essential and can be made via the QR code. (QR CODE on Image).
