Following a successful trial, Dilworth introduced Day School as an option at its Junior Campus in Remuera last year. We talked to Adrianna Boyce, Mum to Joshua and Julian Boyce Iosefo, about their family’s experience.
One of the first students to join Dilworth as a day student was Joshua Boyce Iosefo (now in Year 8). He was soon followed by his younger brother Julian, who started at Dilworth earlier this year as a Year 7.
Adrianna Boyce opened by discussing why Dilworth's day school option was appealing for her family.
“The flexibility of the day option was just right for our family,” she said. “It meant Josh could have a first-class education while coming home each evening. This gave us a smoother transition into intermediate school and made us feel comfortable that they were ready.”
She said it wasn’t long before the family noticed how Dilworth’s approach to teaching and student well-being positively impacted both sons – they really appreciated what Adrianna terms the school’s ‘holistic approach’.
“Both John and I feel confident our sons are well cared for and are getting the best of both worlds.”
Adrianna shared that Josh’s transition to Dilworth as a day student involved some initial adjustments, especially moving from primary to intermediate school. “It took a few weeks to settle in—finding the right balance between all the sports and activities he wanted to try, making sure he stayed involved without feeling overwhelmed - or that he was missing out.”
As a day student, she also added that Josh and Julian have been given the flexibility to board during the week if they choose to, and the house staff have been kind, helpful, and accommodating to their family routine.
She said sticking as closely as possible to the school’s routine is important at home.
“Most days, the boys have time for after-school sport until 5 p.m., and we can either pick them up or they can stay for dinner. At home, we stick to Dilworth’s prep time of 7 p.m. to keep their routine consistent. They’re back at school by 7 a.m. each morning for breakfast with their friends.”
For the Boyce Iosefo family, Dilworth’s Day School option has proven to be the perfect balance of academic excellence and supportive care, making it ideal for their son’s education and well-being.
Adrianna concludes, “We feel blessed—Dilworth is not a typical school. It offers small class sizes, strong learning support, outdoor education, lots of sports options, and a well-rounded curriculum. The school has been incredibly supportive of the boys’ journey, and it aligns with our values as a family.”
Dilworth offers both day and boarding options at its Junior Campus. For Year 9, a day school option will begin at Dilworth’s Senior Campus next year (2026).
Students who opt for Day School in their senior school years will remain as day students throughout their Dilworth journey. As demand for day school grows, this will also be the case for Dilworth’s Junior Campus.