Eastern schools frequently reflect European or Early American design. Southwestern campuses often have a Mexican or desert style. Newer buildings everywhere tend to be more contemporary in design. Boarding schools consider sports for both boys and girls to be very important. Strong minds and strong, disciplined bodies complement each other.
Sports teach quick thinking, instant response, and the value of teamwork.
Because of this, most boarding school campuses have outstanding sports facilities. All have several hectares of playing fields, tennis courts, and many will have running tracks. There will be newer buildings that house artificial ice rinks, squash and indoor tennis courts, wrestling rooms, basketball courts and often a full-sized swimming pool. Some schools have a strong tradition based on religion. Many were started so that students could learn and live in an intellectual setting based on a particular religious philosophy.