What Is a Prep Boarding School?

A prep boarding school prepares children—typically aged 7 to 13—for entrance into senior schools at 13+. These schools offer strong academics, full co-curricular programmes, and structured boarding environments to help children become confident, well-rounded individuals.

At Cottesmore, pupils are nurtured from an early age, and many go on to leading senior schools including Eton, Harrow, Marlborough, Benenden, and Wycombe Abbey.

 

Why Choose Cottesmore?

Cottesmore stands out as a leading prep school with boarding for several key reasons:

 

Academic Excellence

We provide a broad, engaging curriculum that prepares pupils for both Common Entrance and scholarship exams. Small class sizes, experienced teachers, and personalised learning help every child fulfil their potential.

Our pupils regularly secure places—and awards—at the UK’s top independent senior schools.

 

Boarding That Feels Like Home

Cottesmore offers full, weekly, and flexi boarding, starting from Year 3 (age 7). Our boarding houses are led by dedicated houseparents who create a nurturing, family-style environment. Children settle quickly and enjoy the balance of structure, freedom, and fun.

Evenings and weekends are full of activities, from movie nights and baking to woodland adventures and team games.

 

Outstanding Pastoral Care

Our reputation as a leading prep boarding school is built on the strength of our pastoral care. We focus on the wellbeing of every child. From tutors and houseparents to our in-house wellbeing team, your child is supported every step of the way.

 

Enrichment & Co-Curricular Opportunities

A Cottesmore education goes far beyond the classroom. Boarders enjoy a wide range of clubs and activities, including:

  • Variety of sports
  • Music
  • Drama
  • Performing Arts
  • Outdoor Learning
  • Weekend Trips

These activities help children discover new interests, develop key life skills, and form lasting friendships.

 

Flexible for Families

Whether you need full boarding throughout the term, weekly boarding with weekends at home, or occasional overnight stays, our boarding options work for your family. Cottesmore’s flexible approach makes boarding feel natural and supportive, even for first-time boarders that may require more time to settle.

 

Visit Cottesmore School Today

If you’re considering a prep boarding school in West Sussex, we invite you to visit Cottesmore and see first-hand what makes our school so special. Take a look below at some of the things that we offer prior to starting Cottesmore School:

  • Individual tours with our Headmaster
  • Taster boarding nights for your child
  • Scholarship and bursary opportunities

Cottesmore is more than a school—it’s a place where your child can grow, learn, and thrive with confidence.

 

Four children are on a golf course, each with golf clubs and bags. They appear to be talking or preparing to play. The background features green trees and a bright sky. A yellow flag is visible nearby.

Sport at Cottesmore
In a warm, wood-paneled library, three students in school uniforms play chess, their laughter echoing softly. One boy makes a thoughtful move as two girls sit nearby, smiling and immersed in the games gentle challenge against a backdrop of towering bookshelves.

Chess
A man in a suit walks outside with four children wearing school uniforms, each holding a book. They are smiling and appear to be having a conversation near a brick building and greenery.

Music
A man in a suit walks outside with four children wearing school uniforms, each holding a book. They are smiling and appear to be having a conversation near a brick building and greenery.

Design Technology
A man in a suit walks outside with four children wearing school uniforms, each holding a book. They are smiling and appear to be having a conversation near a brick building and greenery.

Arts
Three children in school uniforms walk outside, holding books and smiling. The uniforms include dark sweaters, ties, and shirts. They appear to be enjoying a conversation in a green area with blurred trees in the background.

Drama
Video Wall