The Boarder Promise

Guided by our Boarder Promise, we are preserving the legacy of our historic boarder houses while creating modern, nurturing homes where every Andrean can thrive, grow and succeed.

Introduction

The Boarder Promise: A Home That Inspires

At St Andrew’s College, boarding is more than a place to sleep—it’s a sanctuary of growth, belonging and transformation. For over 170 years, our boarder houses have shaped young men into leaders of character, courage and compassion.

We reaffirm our promise to parents: to provide a safe, nurturing and inspiring environment where young Andreans flourish—academically, emotionally and spiritually. We believe spaces shape behaviour and well-being. How boys live, interact and reflect is deeply influenced by their surroundings. That’s why our termly boarding is designed to feel like home—offering warmth, structure and belonging.

The Inspiring Boarder Home

Our Key Commitments

Safety and Comfort

  • A Safe and Secure Environment
    Every Andrean’s safety is our highest priority. We maintain secure, well-supervised houses with trained staff, smart systems and clear protocols to ensure every boy feels protected and at ease.
  • A Comfortable and Homely Place
    We are investing in modern, sustainable spaces—private rooms, quiet zones and flexible layouts that respect privacy while encouraging community. These are places where boys can relax, study and feel truly at home.

Connection and Community

  • Belonging and Brotherhood
    Each house has its own character, yet all share a common goal: to foster community. Through sensible routines, shared meals and caring staff, we help boys build friendships across grades and backgrounds. Day boarders are welcomed with dedicated spaces to feel at home.

Personal Development

  • Wellbeing and Growth
    We care deeply about each boy’s emotional, mental and physical wellbeing. Staff offer mentoring and pastoral care, and boys have access to counselling, wellness hubs and quiet spaces for reflection. We nurture resilience, leadership and personal responsibility.
  • Learning and Independence
    Academic excellence matters—but so does character. We encourage boys to take ownership of their learning in an environment that celebrates diversity, individuality and lifelong curiosity. Personalised support and flexible learning spaces help each boy thrive.

Honouring Our Heritage

Our Historic Boarder Houses

For generations, our six historic boarder houses have been places of camaraderie and growth, each with its own rich character, proud traditions, and strong sense of identity. While their spirit endures, the physical infrastructure no longer meets the needs of a modern boarder environment, having last been upgraded over two decades ago.

Guided by the Boarder Promise, the refurbishment of each house will honour its unique architectural and cultural identity. The result will be six distinct yet equally exceptional homes where tradition and innovation meet and where the next generation of Andreans can thrive.

Quick Facts

Armstrong House

Built in 1898, Architect: William White-Cooper

Espin House

Built in 1902, Architect: William White-Cooper

Graham House

Canon R. J. Mullins bought the property in 1872 from A. W. Beck. The property was “once the original tollhouse on the road north.”

Quick Facts

Merriman House

Formerly known as Lower House, it was demolished and replaced in 1912. Architect: Franklin Kaye Kendall

Mullins House

Built in 1921, Architect: Franklin Kaye Kendall.

Upper House

Built in 1856, designed by Bishop John Armstrong and Mrs Frances Armstrong, assisted by Captain Hervey of the Royal Engineers

Proposed Upgrades

Our Plan for
the Boarder Houses

Preserving the legacy of each house while modernising the spaces to create a sustainable and inspiring environment for future Andreans is at the heart of our 175 campaign.

• Spacious, comfortable bedrooms
• Well-appointed common rooms and study areas
• Recreational and outdoor activity zones
• Quiet, private spaces for reflection and support
• Grade-specific bathroom facilities
• Optimal climate control in living and learning environments
• Resource efficient technology towards a self sustaining future

Pledge Your Support

Help Secure Our Boarder Legacy

As one of the last full boarder schools in Africa, St Andrew’s College takes great pride in its boarding tradition—a legacy built over more than 170 years. As we approach our 175th Anniversary in 2030, we’re embracing a bold reimagination of boarding: one that honours our past while shaping a future where every boy feels truly at home.

Our future facilities will feature flexible layouts and intimate social hubs, designed to foster deeper connection across age groups, quiet reflection and lasting friendships. Grounded in the quiet strength of the Eastern Cape, our boarding houses will continue to nurture belonging, growth and lifelong resilience.

Your support will help honour this legacy while creating future-ready homes worthy of the boys who call them home.