Q: How much spending money should be budgeted for on exchange?
A: Gordonstoun requests that students pay an auxiliary exchange deposit for additional expenses (chargeable extras) at school. This could range from additional new clothing to outings. The school provides exchange students uniform on a rental basis which is at a nominal cost. The additional expenses can be kept to a minimum whilst at school due to it being inclusive boarding and food. Typically very little of this is accessed.
Outings to the local town or pizzas in the dorm are for the students own expense (cash) much like in South Africa. Additional costs will be incurred when on outings to Edinburgh or over half term in mid-February with their host family (e.g. skiing).
Q: What should students pack for exchange to Gordonstoun?
A: Situated in the North of Scotland in Elgin, Gordonstoun has cold conditions. Whilst the students are there during their Spring Term, the conditions are still as cold as our winters with a high likelihood of snow. Good all weather jacket/s and shoes are essential. For indoors in the hostel, summer clothing (shorts and t-shirts) are worn. If attending a residence dance, more formal wear is required (dance dress or smart wear). Boys will have a Cabaret, for which a suit is required. Sports equipment, e.g. hockey will need to be packed. However, in the time of our exchange to Gordonstoun, netball was the set activity for girls, and hockey for boys. If going on snow hikes or skiing, students can hire equipment. A thermal / second skin or two is advisable to wear under the uniform. Black school shoes could also be taken, as Gordonstoun does not sell shoes. The uniform shop does provide the rest of the uniform, which will be returned upon leaving.
Q: What does an average day at Gordonstoun entail?
A: From past experience, the day starts with Chapel in the morning, followed by classes and a tea break at about 10am. This is followed by another lesson and then lunch, which is an hour long. More lessons follow after lunch, followed by the set activities, which include a wide range of options, and is not limited to sport. Supper follows at around 17:30, followed by some socialising until 19:00. This is followed by a house meeting and prep. There is more free time after prep, and lights out is at 22:00 for the boarders.
Q: What documents do students require for Gordonstoun?
A: Visa and letter from Oakhill and parents. You also require a letter from Gordonstoun. All of these letters is to state purpose of visit. Bank statements, proof of address, unabridged birth certificate. It is advisable to have a medical check up with chest xrays for visas and documentation of any medication when travelling.
Q: What happens during the half-term break at Gordonstoun?
A: If the exchange falls over the Gordonstoun ten-day mid-term break during February, the students go to their host families and possibly travel. Pocket money is essential for this.
Q: Do students have to do Oakhill work or Gordonstoun work?
A: This is optional, but you have to consider that Oakhill work is the priority.