The Home Group model
Students begin and end the day with familiar people, creating routine, safety and stronger relationships.
A Day at Box Hill
Why the Box Hill Model Works
Mitzi Sneesby, Head of Campus at Box Hill, explains how familiar relationships, fewer transitions and a predictable daily rhythm help students feel settled and ready to learn.
Reducing transitions supports learning
Reducing changes in rooms, teachers and activities helps students remain calm, regulated and ready to learn.
Box Hill Campus
A Day at Berengarra School
This is what a typical day at the Box Hill Campus can look and feel like for me.
Knowing what to expect makes it easier for me to walk through the gate and begin my day.
I can take my time settling in
The school day starts at 9:30 am, so my morning can feel less rushed. I can arrive from 9:00 am, have breakfast if I want to and take some time to settle before Home Group begins.
I do not need to remember lots of equipment. A computer is provided for me to use at school. I can request a toastie at lunchtime, and there are disposable cups for the water fountain.
My morning begins with someone familiar
At 9:30 am, I begin Home Group with my Home Group teacher. The same teacher stays with my class for the first two lessons, which focus on literacy and numeracy. It means I begin with an adult who knows me, understands how I learn and can help me settle.
I know how the day will move
There are four lessons and three breaks, with Home Group at the beginning and end. Having a clear rhythm helps me know what is happening now and what is coming next.
At break, I can choose what works for me
Break times can feel worrying when I am new, especially if I do not know anyone yet. I do not have to join a group or immediately know what to do. I might play soccer or basketball, use the totem tennis or table tennis equipment, or go into the Art Room for drawing, games or another quiet activity.
I can spend time with others or take a quieter break. Staff are nearby if I need help finding somewhere to go or someone to connect with.
Support is there, even when asking is hard
Counsellors are on site throughout the school day. I can speak with someone if I am worried, overwhelmed or just feel like I need a chat. Staff can also help with learning, relationships, transitions or working out what I need when everything feels like too much.
I do not really like asking for help, but the staff here are really switched on. They get to know me and notice if I am feeling not quite right.
1:6
The staff-to-student ratio helps staff get to know me as a person, not just as another student in the room.
I finish the day by getting ready to leave
The day ends with a short Home Group, where I can organise my belongings and prepare to leave. School finishes at 2:40 pm, and supervision continues until 2:50 pm. I can also catch the school bus to Box Hill Station.