This study explored the challenges faced by children living in informal boarding facilities near the school. It also suggested strategies and possible interventions. Though there are numerous studies on vulnerable children in general, not much information on challenges that they face, is available, specifically on children living in informal boarding facilities (IBFs). In carrying out this research, a qualitative approach was used. The population was estimated to have about 100 learners living in IBFs in Gokwe South and all schools with learners living in IBFs, teachers and school heads in those schools. Purposive sampling procedures were preferred in the selection of three schools and their school heads, six teachers (two from each school) and eighteen learners (six from each school). Three sets of data collection instruments were used. These were semi-structured interviews, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and observations. The study established that, the distance to school from home was very long to walk each day with the briefest distance being 15kilometers and the longest being 34 kilometres. This led to the emergence of IBFs. It was therefore, recommended that the government could build more schools in rural areas to avoid the increase of IBFs. It was also recommended that in the long run, in line with vision 2030, the government should build more schools so that learners do not have to walk for more than 5kilometres to reach the nearest school. The parents of learners coming into IBFs for the first time should go for guidance and counselling services organised by the schools.
