Rooted in family

The Uncle and Aunty concept was inspired by founder John Graham’s lifelong passion for the family. “The Graham family was a close-knit one,” writes former headmaster James Minto, in his biography of Dr Graham. “In later years he remembered his mother with affection and his father with respect... John was all his life to look upon the family unit as ‘divine’.” John and his wife Katherine also raised six children of their own alongside their young charges at the school.

A “home away from home”

When the Grahams first arrived in Kalimpong, they were appalled by the plight of the “Tea Garden children”. These were young Anglo-Indians from the nearby plantations who had been rejected by their communities and often abandoned by their parents. There was a good reason why Dr Graham called his new venture the “Homes”. He wanted the children to grow up in an environment that felt more like the family home he had experienced as a child.

Lifelong friendships

One of the powerful things about the Cottage System is that it fosters a sense of belonging. Children grow up with their fellow residents, compete in inter-Cottage competitions through the year (fiercely contested!), and often become friends for life. For many of our sponsored children – who are indistinguishable from their fee-paying peers in the Cottages – it’s an experience of “family” they’ve never had before.

The present-day school family

Over a century and a half later, the school still sees Uncles, Aunties and “homeliness” as central to its educational mission. As the school website puts it:

“At Dr. Graham’s Homes, our boarding students reside in cottages that provide a nurturing and homely environment. Each cottage is overseen by caring individuals known affectionately as ‘uncle’ and ‘aunties’ by our students. These dedicated caregivers not only ensure the students’ academic progress and hygiene but also provide a supportive and loving atmosphere akin to that of a real family. This personalized care and attention are integral to our boarding experience, fostering a sense of belonging and well-being among our students.”