Selecting the right boarding school for your child is a big decision. From famous names like Eton and Harrow to Cheltenham Ladies and Charterhouse, these schools are renowned for their high academic standards, rich traditions and diverse extracurricular opportunities.
With around 500 excellent boarding schools in the UK, choosing between them can be tough.
To help, we’ll guide you through the top boarding schools in the country. We’ll cover reputations, exam results, the costs involved and what you need to consider when deciding.
So whether you’re after academic excellence, adventurous pursuits, or just a great all-round education for your child, we’ve got you covered.
In this article:
What are the best boarding schools in the UK?
Boarding schools in the UK are renowned for their exceptional academic standards and rich traditions. Top names include Wycombe Abbey and Westminster School as well as Eton, Harrow and Cheltenham Ladies College. These institutions are celebrated not only for their rigorous education but also fostering personal growth, leadership skills and a sense of community.
To give you a glimpse of what makes these schools stand out, we’ve compiled your guide to the best boarding schools in the UK. We’ve focused on a mixture of prestige as well as exam results, with each school bringing distinct charm and outstanding offerings to the table.
What is the number one boarding school in the UK for results?
In the UK, students commonly sit GCSEs in Year 10 (around 15-16 years old) and A Levels in Year 13 (around 17-18 years old). This tends to be the same for both day schools and boarding schools. So when comparing boarding options, you’ll want to look at both these results.
Here are the top ten UK boarding schools for GCSE and A Level results.
What boarding school has the best GCSE results?
As ranked by the Top School Guide, here are the top ten UK boarding schools for GCSE results. They’re ranked by the percentage of students achieving grade 7 to 9 in last year’s GCSE exams.
- Wycombe Abbey School: 97.50%
- Westminster School: 96.30%
- St Paul’s School: 96.00%
- Brighton College: 94.00%
- Tonbridge School: 93.55%
- Dulwich College: 92.00%
- Concord College: 90.00%
- Winchester College: 88.41%
- Whitgift School: 88.00%
- St Catherine’s, Bramley: 88.00%
What boarding school has the best A Level results?
Here are the top ten UK boarding schools for A Level results, ranked by the Top School Guide. They’re listed by the percentage of pupils achieving A* and A in last year’s A Level exams.
- Cardiff Sixth Form College: 94.85%
- Oxford International College: 90.49%
- Queen Ethelburga’s College: 84.30%
- St Paul’s School: 84.00%
- Westminster School: 83.50%
- Brighton College: 82.27%
- Eton College: 80.10%
- Tonbridge School: 80.00%
- Winchester College: 79.63%
- St Michael’s School Llanelli: 79.11%
Where are the most prestigious boarding schools in the UK?
When it comes to prestigious boarding schools, the UK is packed with top choices.
In the South East, you’ll find classics like Eton College and Wellington College in Berkshire, while Surrey boasts Charterhouse and Cranleigh School. Sussex adds Brighton College and Roedean School to the mix. Greater London, though primarily known for its day schools, includes notable names like Harrow.
Down in the South West, Marlborough College in Wiltshire and Canford School and Bryanston School in Dorset offer excellent options. The East of England features Haileybury in Hertfordshire and Brentwood School in Essex. Over in the Midlands, Rugby School in Warwickshire and Shrewsbury School in Shropshire are standout choices. Oxfordshire’s Radley College is also renowned for its strong academic and sports programs.
Scotland isn’t left out, with Glenalmond College in Perthshire and Fettes College in Edinburgh making their mark. And in the North West, Stonyhurst College in Lancashire is another prestigious name to consider.
What is the girls’ equivalent of Eton?
Cheltenham Ladies’ College is often considered the girls’ equivalent of Eton due to its prestigious reputation and rigorous academic standards. Founded in 1853 by Dorothea Beale, Cheltenham Ladies provided girls with a high-quality education at a time when opportunities were limited.
Located in the historic town of Cheltenham, the school combines elegant architecture with modern facilities and a wide range of extracurricular activities. It’s known for a holistic approach to education, a broad curriculum and consistently high exam results.
What is the hardest boarding school to get into in the UK?
Getting into Eton College is often considered one of the toughest challenges for students in the UK. The admissions process is incredibly selective, involving challenging entrance exams, interviews and assessments that look at academic potential and personal qualities. Needless to say, competition is fierce.
But really, it’s much the same for any of the country’s top boarding schools. These schools aim to find students who not only excel academically but also have talents in leadership, arts, sports and beyond. Highly selective admissions tutors want well-rounded individuals who’ll thrive in a boarding environment.
The Best Boarding Schools in the UK: Fees and Funding
How much is boarding school in the UK per month?
Boarding school fees in the UK vary widely. But on average, expect to pay between £10,000 and £15,000 per term. This translates to roughly £30,000 to £45,000 per year.
Generally speaking, the more prestigious the school, the higher the fees. International students also usually pay slightly more.
For example, Brighton College charges between £17,000 and 18,000 a term for UK students. For international boarding students, this rises to £22,000. Eton College also charges around £17,500 per term.
Are there free boarding schools in the UK?
There are approximately 30 state-funded UK boarding schools offering free or subsidised education. For example, schools like The Royal Alexandra and Albert School in Surrey let students receive a quality boarding education without the hefty price tag.
You can find a full list of state-funded boarding schools here.
Can I get funding for a boarding school?
Yes, most boarding schools offer scholarships and bursaries to help with the cost of education. Scholarships are typically awarded based on academic merit or special talents, while bursaries are usually means-tested and based on financial need.
Each school has its own application process and criteria, so check with individual schools for specific details.
The Best Boarding Schools in the UK: A Global Perspective
What age is best for boarding school?
Choosing the best age to start at a boarding school is difficult! It depends on factors such as your child’s maturity, family circumstances and the school. So unfortunately there’s no “best” answer.
Having said this, most UK children start boarding at secondary. So around 11 to 12 years old.
Here are a few pointers to keep in mind.
- Ages 7-10: Younger children might adapt quickly but may struggle with separation from home.
- Ages 11-12: A good time for transition, as children are often more prepared emotionally and academically but might still face homesickness.
- Ages 13-15: Teens are more independent and can handle the boarding lifestyle well, though they might find it challenging to leave friends behind.
- Ages 16-18: Ideal for focused academic preparation, but integrating into a new school can be tough for those joining late.
How do I choose a boarding school in the UK?
Choosing the right boarding school in the UK can be a big decision, so it’s essential to find one that fits your child’s needs. When making your shortlist, consider the following:
- School type: Single-sex or co-educational. Which environment will best suit your child?
- Location: Think about whether your child would thrive in a bustling city or peaceful countryside.
- Academic focus: Check the school’s academic performance and ethos. Will your child meet the school’s academic expectations?
- Size: Smaller schools often offer more personalised support, while larger ones may have a wider range of activities.
- Boarding options: Consider the type of boarding that fits your needs – flexi, weekly, or full-time.
- Integration: Ensure there are opportunities for different types of boarders to mix and feel included.
- International support: For overseas applicants, check if the school supports international students and has experience with diverse backgrounds.
Visiting schools, talking to current students and parents, and reflecting on your child’s needs and interests will help in finding the best fit. It’s about matching the school’s strengths with what’s best for your child’s development and happiness.
What percentage of British kids go to boarding school?
You might be surprised to learn that boarding schools educate a relatively small percentage of the British student population. Only about 1% of students in the UK attend boarding schools.
This reflects the selective nature and high standards of these institutions. Their unique blend of a challenging education and exclusive atmosphere means they’re not for everyone, but for those who attend, a boarding school education can be a game changer.
If you’re considering day school options, don’t miss our guides to the best private schools in London and the UK, as well as state-funded schools and grammars.
Are British boarding schools worth it?
British boarding schools are highly regarded for their exceptional education standards, comprehensive support and extensive extracurricular opportunities. For many families, the benefits of attending a British boarding school make the investment more than worthwhile.
While the fees are high, boarding schools offer more than just a quality education:
- Cultural exposure: With a mix of international and UK students, boarders gain valuable cultural awareness and a global perspective.
- Building independence: Living away from home helps prepare children for university and adulthood.
- Access to premium facilities: Boarders have ample time to enjoy the school’s excellent grounds, sports and arts facilities.
- Structured routines: A set schedule for studying, meals and personal time fosters discipline and organisation.
- Enhanced social skills: Living with peers can accelerate friendship-building and boost social confidence.
If you’re thinking about UK boarding schools, reach out to our expert team at Achieve Learning. With a track record of successfully securing places at the country’s top schools, we offer tailored support in interview techniques, Eleven Plus preparation, mock exams and more. Let us help you achieve the best outcomes for your child.
