Expert Career Guidance 

One of the main missions of every school is to prepare their students for later life. The support system in place gives students a lot of career insight with the hope of developing their interest in relevant fields. For example, at Brighton College, there is an annual career conference for students in year 12 where different professionals from various fields share their experiences and give talks, as well as an FAQ session. Concord College has an incredible medicine support programme where they would hold a medic conference where representatives of different universities come to the school and prepare them for interviews, as well as being interviewed by professionals. On top of that, intensive UCAT training is provided to ensure students are in reach of the top medical schools. Internship opportunities are also offered from the vast network schools have built. In addition, boarding schools have established alumni associations that provide fantastic opportunities for students and ex-students to connect. This paves a path for the future and students will be assured that they will leave school with a sense of direction and purpose.

Diverse Choices-Single Sex or Co-Ed

Each boarding school has its own ethos and distinct traditions so families can choose schools that assimilate the same values. Single sex schools are incredibly common, with the advantage of eliminating gender stereotypes in a school environment to allow students to focus on their talents, whether that be Art, English, or STEM. There is no such thing as “Boys can’t do dance” , “girls’ subjects” or “boys’ subjects”. Tailored teaching methods for each gender could be implemented, for example, girls are more suited for discussion-based and collaborative learning where boys would have more independent study and freedom. There is no need to fight for facilities and students will sure develop the confidence and tools required to succeed in this highly competitive world.  

On the other hand, co-educational schools provide a window for students to learn how to get along with the opposite sex from a young age and having the opportunity to participate in a lot of mixed social events such as formal dinners, funfairs and more. Many schools have co-educational boarding houses in sixth form which simulates the style of university life, bridging the gap to the next chapter in life and beyond.

Community Service and Volunteering

Enrichment programmes remind students of the world beyond the classroom and giving back to our community. The major service options include The Combined Cadet Force (CCF), a youth military organisation that operates in most boarding schools branched into subsections such as the Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is given after completing a series of activities which includes volunteering, physical, skills and the expedition. Obtaining a gold award is a respected and recognised mark of achievement and there would even be a chance to receive the award from a member of the royal family.  Sport leadership programmes are also offered for talented athletes to further polish their sporting arsenal and for seniors to take on leadership roles and become role models to the younger years. There are various opportunities to work with local communities through different acts of service and volunteering which involves visiting elderlies and disabled people, refugee programmes or helping out in local primary schools. Dedicating time to help others would elevate their skills in empathy and understanding the needs of others, engraving the important values of being kind and generous.

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Road to Higher Education and Oxbridge

Not only are boarding schools dedicated to providing the highest standard of education, but they also provide unique and personalised assistance to students during the university admission process, such as Oxbridge/medic preparations and guidance, giving students an edge to obtaining their first choice degree. As a result, boarding schools often boast high numbers of graduates with around 92% going on to higher education, including Russell Group universities or even US/Canadian colleges.