What should Parents consider when looking at UK Boarding Schools? 

With this in mind, we have put together a series of key factors for parents to think about whilst researching and choosing from the UK Independent Boarding School market. 

 

Location

The first factor to consider is the school’s location. The UK is fortunate to have a great number of transport networks opening up access to some of the very best schools in the world, however it may be important to parents to know how far the schools are from the international airports.  Is it important for schools to be close to family and friends?  Parents should also consider if they wish for an urban or rural setting, as the experiences enjoyed can be very different.

 

Academic Reputation

Parents should take time to look at the school’s academic track record, exam results, and university destinations, as well as the qualifications and experience of teachers and their commitment to student success. As well as rankings, parents should consider looking at the Good Schools Guide and ISC inspection reports. It’s also important to check, particularly for GCSE & A-Level students, that the chool offers the subject ranges required. While a number of schools offer traditional subjects such as Latin and Classics, there are now a number of schools embracing the newer range of subjects such as Global Perspectives, Psychology, Media Studies, Music Technology and Law.

 

Selection Criteria

There are a number of schools that are highly selective and it is imperative that parents understand the admissions process and probability of their child gaining entry.  Highly selective schools will have rigorous assessments and admissions criteria including assessment examinations and interviews.  It can be very demotivating if a child applies for a school that is not suitable for them, as well as it being a waste of time.  Parents must fully understand the preparation required for the admissions process, and they may wish to engage subject tutors, or help with interview practice.  

 

Facilities

Parents should spend time looking at the school’s facilities, including classrooms, science labs, libraries, creative and performing arts resources, sports facilities, and recreational spaces. There may be virtual tours available to watch online, or past webinars with staff members. 

 

Boarding Facilities

The school’s boarding facilities will serve as the second home to students,  influencing academic performance, happiness, and their overall experience. Parents should fully understand the boarding house layouts – do boarders share rooms? If so, how many to a room? Do they have en-suite or shared bathrooms? Are there common areas that boarders can socialise in? Do the boarding houses mix? (This might be of particular importance if students have siblings at the school). Who are the key members of staff? 

 

Extracurricular Activities

UK Boarding Schools will often have a wealth of extra-curricular activities for students to choose from. Parents should take a look at the variety of clubs, sports, arts, and other activities that align with their child’s interests. It’s also worth understanding what school trips are offered, for example ski trips, sports tours, subject-led or music tours. 

 

Pastoral Care

Wellbeing and mental health is paramount to a child’s success, and UK Boarding Schools put a lot of emphasis on ensuring students are happy and feel safe.  It can also be a worrying time for parents if it’s the first time their child has lived away from home, so we encourage parents to find out about the systems and processes in place to support their child’s emotional well-being and personal development. There might be House Systems, year group tutors, wellbeing orientated clubs, and an on-site health & wellbeing centres. Parents should find out who would be their main contact, and how the boarding team are linked with the main school. 

 

Boarding Options

Schools often offer a variety of boarding options, from full, to weekly, to day, as well as flexi. Parents may wish to know: 

• What percentage of the school community boards? What percentage are full boarders? What percentage are weekly boarders? 
• Are there exeat weekends? 
• What evening and weekend activities are included and/or extra? 
• Are boarders able to remain in School over the holidays? 

 

Fees

Fees for UK Boarding schools vary hugely, so it’s important for parents to understand how much they should budget.There will be registration fees, acceptance fees and usually a terms fees to be paid prior to starting school. It’s also important for parents to know that there are usually annual increases in fees – anything from 3 – 8% per year.  If parents are interested in applying for scholarships or bursaries for their children, often the application deadlines are earlier so they need to be prepared!

 

Each of the above factors can significantly impact a child’s boarding school experience, but by doing their research, parents can help their child to prepare for the experience. 

It’s a huge benefit if agents have visited the schools as parents will rely on you to share your thoughts and wisdom. If you have been unable to visit the school recently, the above list of questions will come in useful when you are doing your research.

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