Over half of our pupils achieved Grade As at Higher level

Boarding - the advantages

So, why board? For some it’s because of geographical necessity: living or working abroad and wanting a British education for your child. However, for an increasing number of parents, the decision to opt for boarding is born from the many advantages to ‘living in’ at their chosen school.

British boarding remains a much coveted, global, brand. The Independent Schools Council 2018 census shows that there are more than 75,000 students at over 490 state and independent schools in the UK, including over 69,000 pupils at schools belonging to the ISC.

“Mainly, it’s just so much fun” says Kilgraston boarder, Zoe, “Nobody is helicoptering you – you’re given the space to be yourself and learn time-management.” Indeed, independence and confidence are the two traits most frequently associated with the boarding experience.

As these schools have an international client base, this, naturally, translates to a broad, dynamic education centring on learning and living together. “I’ve developed so much as a person” says Kilgraston boarder Cristina Coellen, “boarding has allowed my true personality to develop. There are no secrets, we’re all in the same boat!” Lifelong friendships with boarding contemporaries are cemented over hot-chocolates and cosy nights in: “I’ll miss my boarding family so, so much,” says boarder, Kemi Olaitan.

Of course, the absence of the daily commute means extra time for sport, prep work and new opportunities, all supported by experienced staff. Boarding schools tend to attract multi-dimensional employees, with a wealth of experience to offer, enabling them to contribute to sport, music and drama at high levels.

Former boarders frequently comment on the, ‘team spirit’ that was instilled within them and has stayed with them for life. “When I first went to boarding school,” says renowned broadcaster and adventurer, Ben Fogle, “I was shy and missed home, but, very quickly, I became involved in the amazing, seven day a week, opportunities and never looked back.”

The independence granted by this upbringing is credited by many for preparing them more thoroughly for the increased freedom of the university campus, ensuring greater confidence to tackle the unknown.

Boarder Lissie sums it up: “I’m really going to miss all the support from boarding and teaching staff, I couldn’t have done it without them.”

Every July, the tears expressed by Upper Sixth pupils at the end of their boarding journey are testament to the sense of loss at leaving their school ‘family’.

Robin Fletcher, Chief Executive of the London-based Boarding Schools’ Association, sums it up: “The proof of the benefits of boarding are clear – confident, socially-adjusted young people who can stand on their own two feet, succeed inside and outside the classroom, think for themselves and make lasting friendships for life with others from around the globe. Through the extra time to access all the facilities and staff that great British boarding schools have to offer, boarders have the opportunity to develop their potential and realise the full range of their talents.”