<p>So this was something I've been wondering about for a while...if enrolled as a boarding student at a boarding school, would it be possible to take lessons not offered in the extracurricular activities OUTSIDE of school? For example, a certain and specific type of dance or martial art. If the school simple does not have it included, could you perhaps take lessons in a city or town nearby? Just wondering.</p>
<p>It may be difficult because of transportation issues and time. Some schools do allow outside sports with pre-approval. We had hoped to keep up an outside sport for my D at Exeter, but it was not really do-able without a local ride.</p>
<p>The cost of hiring a taxi or car service for the transportation could be considerable.</p>
<p>And while not impossible, it could be difficult to fit into your schedule, as the boarding school day outside the classroom is heavily scheduled w mandatory sports/activities, studyhalls & curfews. Underclassmen generally are subject to more restrictive rules regarding studyhall & curfews than Upperclassmen.</p>
<p>If the outside lessons are that important to you, I would contact the school to discuss your options. Every school has different policies and logistical circumstances.</p>
<p>If an activity is important to you, I’d look for a school that offers it. The day is so busy that it’s best, in my opinion, to have those nice extras built into the school day.</p>
<p>On the other hand, my kid ended up giving up pretty much all of the e.c.'s he had participated in at home, but finding some new ones he liked that were natural offspring of the original activities.</p>
<p>This is not something that can be answered with a blanket statement as the answer depends on the school, the activity, and the student.</p>
<p>For example, a school like Emma Willard offers the “Practicum” program, which allows you pursue both academic and non-academic interests outside of the school’s ability to support them. But part of the ability to do this depends on having resources near the school that support your interest. So, for example, if you are a competitive foil fencer, Emma might not be the best school for you because the fencing club they work with is predominantly a saber club.</p>
<p>Other schools, especially those with mandatory sports in all seasons, Saturday classes, and/or Sunday chapel, may not be the best fit for pursuing outside interests…as there is very little time for these interests.</p>
<p>If taking outside lessons is important to you, it’s best that you address this on a school by school basis before applying. Why waste your time (and the time of the Admissions officers) if the school isn’t open to it?</p>