What Is a Boarding School?
A boarding school is a school where children live during the term, either full-time or part-time, in addition to attending lessons. Children live in boarding houses with other pupils and are cared for by houseparents and staff who act in place of family while they are at school.
Boarding can begin from as early as age 7 (Year 3) at a prep or junior school, such as Cottesmore.
The Core Purposes of Boarding Schools
1. Independence and Responsibility
Boarding schools teach children how to manage their time, organise their belongings, and take responsibility for their daily routines. This early independence helps prepare them for life beyond school. Whether that’s senior school, university, or adulthood.
At Cottesmore, we gently guide younger boarders through this transition with structured support and a warm, family-like setting.
2. Stronger Academics
Living at school gives pupils more access to learning support, quiet prep sessions, and teacher interaction outside regular lessons. With fewer distractions and a well-structured timetable, boarders often perform well academically.
Boarding schools like Cottesmore offer small class sizes, expert teachers, and extended academic support, all within a calm countryside setting.
3. All-Round Personal Development
The purpose of a boarding school isn’t just to pass exams. It’s to develop well-rounded, confident individuals. Pupils take part in sport, music, drama, outdoor activities, and weekend trips—all designed to build character, creativity, and resilience.
At Cottesmore, children enjoy a rich co-curricular life alongside strong academic foundations.
4. A Sense of Community
Boarding builds lasting friendships. Children live, learn, and play together. Creating strong bonds with peers and staff alike. The shared experience of boarding develops empathy, teamwork, and a sense of belonging.
Our boarders often describe Cottesmore as their “second family.”
5. Structure and Stability
For many families, boarding schools provide a consistent routine and support system that’s hard to replicate at home. Particularly for busy working parents or families living abroad.
Cottesmore’s boarding routine balances academic focus with play, rest, and emotional wellbeing.
Who Is Boarding For?
Boarding schools can suit many different types of families and children:
- Children who benefit from structured routines
- Families who travel frequently or live overseas
- Children who enjoy being active and sociable
- Parents looking for a full educational and pastoral experience
At Cottesmore, we offer full, weekly, and flexi boarding to suit every situation. Some children board occasionally to begin with and then go on to board more as they grow.
Visit Cottesmore to Learn More
If you’re exploring boarding options and want to truly understand the purpose of boarding schools, we invite you to visit Cottesmore School in West Sussex.
Come and experience the care, structure, and joy of life as a boarder. You’ll see how boarding helps shape capable, kind, and confident young people.
