Top 10 Boarding Schools In The UK – 2023 Guide
When it comes to providing an exceptional education, the United Kingdom has long been renowned for its prestigious boarding schools. These institutions offer a unique and transformative educational experience, combining rigorous academic programmes with a supportive and enriching environment for students. As we enter 2024, we will delve into the best UK boarding schools, showcasing the finest establishments known for their academic excellence, state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated faculty, and holistic approach to education. Whether you’re a parent seeking the best educational opportunities for your child or a student looking to embark on an educational journey that will shape your future, this one is for you!
Table of Contents
Best Boarding Schools in the UK
1. Cardiff Sixth Form College
As one of the top boarding schools in the UK, Cardiff Sixth Form College has gained a stellar reputation for its unwavering commitment to academic excellence. Renowned for its exceptional A-level results, the college consistently achieves outstanding outcomes, propelling its students to top universities around the world.
With a focus on individual attention and personalised teaching, Cardiff Sixth Form College creates an intellectually stimulating environment where students can thrive. Small class sizes allow for tailored instruction, fostering a close-knit community that nurtures students’ intellectual growth. By combining a rigorous academic curriculum with a supportive learning environment, Cardiff Sixth Form College empowers students to reach their full potential and succeed in their future endeavours.
2. Oxford International College
Oxford International College is synonymous with academic rigour and preparation for prestigious universities. Situated in the iconic city of Oxford, the college offers a unique educational experience that combines intellectual challenge with comprehensive support. With expert guidance from experienced teachers, students benefit from a wide range of subject choices, allowing them to pursue their academic passions.
The college prides itself on fostering critical thinking, independent learning, and strong analytical skills, providing students with the tools necessary to excel in higher education. Through its rigorous academic curriculum, personalised attention, and commitment to student success, Oxford International College equips students with the knowledge and confidence to thrive in their academic pursuits.
3. Westminster School
Nestled in the heart of London, Westminster School epitomises educational excellence combined with a rich historical legacy. The school’s strength lies in its holistic approach, cultivating a vibrant community where students are encouraged to explore their academic, artistic, and athletic talents.
With a strong emphasis on character development and the pursuit of knowledge, Westminster School offers a rigorous academic curriculum that challenges students to think critically and engage actively in their learning. The school’s commitment to fostering intellectual curiosity, creativity, and leadership is complemented by a wide range of extracurricular activities, ensuring a well-rounded education. By embracing tradition while embracing modern educational practices, Westminster School provides students with an unparalleled educational experience that prepares them for a lifetime of success.
4. Wycombe Abbey
Wycombe Abbey, an esteemed all-girls boarding school, is renowned for its unwavering commitment to academic excellence and empowering young women. With a strong emphasis on personalised learning, the school offers a wide range of academic subjects taught by passionate and dedicated teachers.
Beyond academics, Wycombe Abbey provides extensive extracurricular opportunities, including arts, sports, and leadership programmes, fostering holistic development. The school’s nurturing community encourages students to challenge themselves, develop resilience, and embrace intellectual curiosity. Through its supportive environment, Wycombe Abbey empowers students to become confident, independent thinkers, equipping them with the skills and values necessary for success in their future academic and professional endeavors.
5. Brighton College
Brighton College stands as a beacon of innovative education, combining academic excellence with a nurturing and inclusive environment. The college’s commitment to holistic education is evident in its diverse range of academic programmes, vibrant arts offerings, and extensive sports facilities. Brighton College encourages students to explore their passions and develop their talents in an atmosphere that values creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration.
With an exceptional teaching staff, state-of-the-art facilities, and a strong sense of community, Brighton College provides students with the tools and opportunities to excel academically and personally. By fostering a love of learning, embracing diversity, and nurturing individual potential, Brighton College prepares students to make a positive impact in the world beyond their educational journey.
6. Dulwich College
With a rich history spanning over four centuries, Dulwich College has established itself as a leading boarding school with a reputation for academic excellence and holistic development. The college prides itself on its rigorous academic curriculum, delivered by dedicated teachers who inspire and challenge students to reach their full potential.
Alongside academic pursuits, Dulwich College offers a wide array of co-curricular activities, including sports, arts, and community engagement programmes, encouraging students to develop their interests and talents outside the classroom. The school places a strong emphasis on character development, fostering qualities such as resilience, leadership, and global awareness. By nurturing well-rounded individuals, Dulwich College equips its students with the skills and values necessary for success in an ever-evolving world.
7. Concord College
Concord College is renowned for its international focus and commitment to providing students with a global perspective. Welcoming students from around the world, the college creates a diverse and multicultural community. Academically, Concord College offers a challenging curriculum that prepares students for top universities, supported by comprehensive pastoral care and dedicated language support.
The college’s modern facilities and engaging teaching methods facilitate an enriching learning environment. Beyond academics, Concord College offers an extensive range of extracurricular activities, allowing students to pursue their passions and develop a well-rounded skill set. Through its international outlook, academic excellence, and nurturing support, Concord College prepares students for success in an increasingly interconnected world.
8. Queen Ethelburga's College
Queen Ethelburga’s College is widely recognised for its modern facilities and its commitment to fostering holistic development. The college prioritises both academic achievement and personal well-being, creating a nurturing environment where students can thrive. With a diverse range of academic programmes, state-of-the-art resources, and a dedicated faculty, Queen Ethelburga’s College empowers students to excel academically.
The college also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, enabling students to explore their interests and talents beyond the classroom. By promoting a strong sense of community, individual growth, and a supportive learning environment, Queen Ethelburga’s College prepares students for future success and personal fulfillment.
9. St Michael's School
St Michael’s School is highly regarded for its exceptional pastoral care and nurturing environment. The school’s strength lies in its commitment to providing individual attention and support to each student. With a focus on academic excellence and personal well-being, St Michael’s School fosters a supportive community where students can thrive academically and personally.
The school offers a broad curriculum, engaging extracurricular activities, and opportunities for personal growth and leadership development. Through its dedicated teaching staff, tailored support systems, and emphasis on student welfare, St Michael’s School provides a holistic educational experience that prepares students for future challenges and achievements.
10. St Mary's School Ascot
St Mary’s School Ascot, a distinguished girls’ boarding school, is renowned for its commitment to academic achievement and personal development. The school offers a comprehensive academic curriculum that challenges and inspires students to excel.
With a focus on empowering young women, St Mary’s School Ascot nurtures leadership skills, fosters creativity, and instills values of respect and integrity. The school provides a supportive community where each student is encouraged to reach her full potential, both academically and personally. Through a wide range of extracurricular opportunities, including arts, sports, and community service, St Mary’s School Ascot promotes holistic development, preparing students to make a positive impact on the world beyond their school years.
Latest UK Boarding School League Table
| Rank | School Name | A*/A | Candidates | Fees (£) | Location | Boarding Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | Oxford International College | 90.1 | 138 | £27,645 | Oxfordshire | Boarding |
| 6 | Queen Ethelburga's College | 83.8 | 75 | £19,695 | North Yorkshire | Boarding |
| 9 | Westminster School | 82.3 | 199 | £34,389 | Greater London | Boarding |
| 10 | King's College School (KCS) | 82.3 | 159 | £25,890 | Greater London | Boarding |
| 12 | Brighton College | 80 | 234 | £28,260 | East Sussex | Boarding |
| 13 | St Michael's School | 79.1 | 47 | £14,490 | Carmarthenshire | Boarding |
| 18 | Wycombe Abbey | 74.3 | 98 | £36,000 | Buckinghamshire | Boarding |
| 22 | Cheltenham Ladies' College | 71.7 | 147 | £33,900 | Gloucestershire | Boarding |
| 28 | The National Mathematics and Science College | 68.9 | 31 | £14,997 | Warwickshire | Boarding |
| 32 | Wellington College | 67.3 | 117 | £32,940 | Berkshire | Boarding |
| 35 | Bancroft's School | 66.2 | 123 | £22,770 | Essex | Boarding |
| 36 | Ruthin School | 65.8 | 35 | £16,540 | Denbighshire | Boarding |
| 37 | Canford School | 65.7 | 141 | £34,941 | Dorset | Boarding |
| 39 | Dulwich College | 64.8 | 227 | £24,693 | Greater London | Boarding |
| 40 | The Faculty of Queen Ethelburga's | 64.3 | 41 | £19,695 | North Yorkshire | Boarding |
| 43 | Oundle School | 62.9 | 202 | £27,075 | Northamptonshire | Boarding |
| 47 | St Catherine's, Bramley | 59.4 | 79 | £20,925 | Surrey | Boarding |
| 53 | Epsom College | 57.7 | 195 | £30,909 | Surrey | Boarding |
| 56 | Whitgift School | 56.9 | 140 | £24,462 | Greater London | Boarding |
| 57 | Burgess Hill Girls | 56.6 | 33 | £22,410 | West Sussex | Boarding |
| 60 | Ardingly College | 56.3 | 89 | £28,875 | West Sussex | Boarding |
| 61 | Abbey College Cambridge | 55.4 | 113 | £27,900 | Cambridgeshire | Boarding |
| 62 | Roedean School | 55.2 | 91 | £24,660 | East Sussex | Boarding |
| 64 | The Leys School | 54.5 | 100 | £27,600 | Cambridgeshire | Boarding |
| 67 | Kingswood School | 53.3 | 114 | £18,438 | Somerset | Boarding |
| 68 | d'Overbroeck's | 53.1 | 198 | £28,545 | Oxfordshire | Boarding |
| 70 | The King's School, Canterbury | 52.8 | 213 | £30,900 | Kent | Boarding |
| 77 | Hurtwood House | 50.7 | 164 | £32,388 | Surrey | Boarding |
| 78 | Talbot Heath School | 50.6 | 26 | £17,301 | Dorset | Boarding |
| 82 | The Royal School Dungannon | 50.2 | 76 | £9,150 | County Tyrone | Boarding |
| 83 | Adcote School for Girls | 50 | 18 | £14,838 | Shropshire | Boarding |
| 85 | Woodbridge School | 49.4 | 54 | £20,538 | Suffolk | Boarding |
| 87 | Cheltenham College | 48.6 | 148 | £32,580 | Gloucestershire | Boarding |
| 88 | Badminton School | 48.5 | 61 | £19,410 | Bristol | Boarding |
| 90 | Ipswich School | 48.2 | 146 | £19,704 | Suffolk | Boarding |
| 91 | St John's School | 48.2 | 128 | £27,360 | Surrey | Boarding |
| 93 | Chigwell School | 48 | 103 | £22,635 | Essex | Boarding |
| 96 | Loughborough Grammar School | 47.1 | 113 | £16,170 | Leicestershire | Boarding |
| 98 | St George's School, Edinburgh | 46.7 | 11 | £16,359 | Midlothian | Boarding |
| 106 | Haileybury | 43.9 | 122 | £32,355 | Hertfordshire | Boarding |
| 107 | CATS Cambridge | 43.8 | 27 | £18,990 | Cambridgeshire | Boarding |
| 110 | Bedford School | 42.9 | 116 | £21,945 | Bedfordshire | Boarding |
| 112 | Gresham's School | 42.6 | 88 | £29,100 | Norfolk | Boarding |
| 117 | Brentwood School | 41.4 | 150 | £21,783 | Essex | Boarding |
| 118 | West Buckland School | 41 | 83 | £18,420 | Devon | Boarding |
| 126 | Kimbolton School | 38.8 | 99 | £18,015 | Cambridgeshire | Boarding |
| 129 | Jersey College for Girls | 37.9 | 103 | £7,404 | Channel Islands | Boarding |
| 131 | Ryde School | 37.5 | 47 | £14,190 | Isle of Wight | Boarding |
| 137 | Brockwood Park School and Inwoods Small School | 35.7 | 14 | £24,400 | Hampshire | Boarding |
| 140 | The Mount School York | 35.5 | 20 | £20,910 | North Yorkshire | Boarding |
| 143 | Saint Felix School | 34.8 | 23 | £19,305 | Suffolk | Boarding |
| 144 | Battle Abbey School | 34.3 | 50 | £19,782 | East Sussex | Boarding |
| 147 | St Margaret's School | 33.3 | 28 | £19,269 | Hertfordshire | Boarding |
| 148 | Stover School | 33.3 | 17 | £14,730 | Devon | Boarding |
| 151 | St Joseph's College | 31.9 | 48 | £18,063 | Berkshire | Boarding |
| 152 | Oakham School | 31.7 | 141 | £26,100 | Rutland | Boarding |
| 153 | Ashford School | 31.6 | 60 | £20,358 | Kent | Boarding |
| 155 | Wychwood School | 30.8 | 13 | £20,811 | Oxfordshire | Boarding |
| 158 | Denstone College and The Prep at Denstone College | 30.6 | 91 | £19,749 | Staffordshire | Boarding |
| 159 | Thetford Grammar School | 30.5 | 27 | £15,495 | Norfolk | Boarding |
| 160 | Christ College | 30.4 | 56 | £22,005 | Powys | Boarding |
| 161 | Loretto School | 30.2 | 81 | £25,155 | East Lothian | Boarding |
| 162 | Read School | 30 | 8 | £14,289 | North Yorkshire | Boarding |
| 164 | Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation | 29.1 | 62 | £16,794 | Durham | Boarding |
| 165 | Royal Hospital School | 28.8 | 110 | £22,239 | Suffolk | Boarding |
| 167 | Queenswood | 28.4 | 43 | £28,380 | Hertfordshire | Boarding |
| 168 | Leighton Park School | 28.2 | 64 | £28,230 | Berkshire | Boarding |
| 170 | Kingham Hill School | 26.9 | 41 | £23,325 | Oxfordshire | Boarding |
| 171 | St Edmund's School Canterbury | 25.5 | 48 | £24,360 | Kent | Boarding |
| 172 | Plymouth College | 25.4 | 55 | £19,929 | Devon | Boarding |
| 175 | Box Hill School | 24.7 | 26 | £23,745 | Surrey | Boarding |
| 177 | Elmhurst Ballet School | 23.5 | 16 | £20,436 | West Midlands | Boarding |
| 178 | Rochester Independent College | 23.5 | 109 | £22,800 | Kent | Boarding |
| 180 | Rye St Antony School | 22.2 | 20 | £20,250 | Oxfordshire | Boarding |
| 183 | Buckswood School | 20.9 | 29 | £16,350 | East Sussex | Boarding |
| 184 | Tring Park School for the Performing Arts | 20.6 | 61 | £25,755 | Hertfordshire | Boarding |
| 185 | Kensington Park School | 20.5 | 37 | £27,350 | Greater London | Boarding |
| 189 | Mount Kelly | 18.4 | 75 | £20,970 | Devon | Boarding |
| 191 | Glenalmond College | 14.1 | 73 | £25,275 | Perthshire and Kinross | Boarding |
| 197 | Padworth College | 0 | 4 | £18,645 | Berkshire | Boarding |
Frequently Asked Questions about the Top UK Boarding Schools
No, UK boarding schools welcome students from around the world. They embrace cultural diversity and often have a significant international student population. Attending a UK boarding school provides an opportunity for students to engage with different cultures and form global connections.
UK boarding schools can vary in terms of tuition fees, which typically cover academic instruction, accommodation, meals, and certain extracurricular activities. Additional costs may include uniforms, textbooks, and optional activities. It’s important to research and consider the financial aspects before applying.
Yes, most UK boarding schools facilitate regular communication between students and their families. This can include phone calls, emails, visits during designated weekends or holidays, and increasingly, the use of digital communication platforms to stay connected.
Apply To The Top Boarding Schools In The UK Today!
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Apply To The Top Boarding Schools In The UK Now!
Speak to us today for free application assistance and education advice. Our expert consultants are more than happy to help!