In recent years, UK boarding schools have primarily been home to international students seeking outstanding British education. However, an increasing number of UK students are discovering the unique advantages that boarding life offers. From fostering independence to providing additional time for academic study, extracurricular activities, and building lasting friendships, boarding is becoming an attractive option for families across the country. With flexible arrangements such as weekly boarding, students can enjoy the best of both worlds immersing themselves in the vibrant boarding community while maintaining strong connections at home.
In this article, Lila, one of Sidcot School’s Sixth Form students and UK weekly boarder, shares her personal experience of transitioning to weekly boarding and explains why it has become one of the most rewarding aspects of her school life.
Lila’s Boarding ExperienceÂ
My name is Lila, I joined Sidcot in Year 12, at the beginning of my A Levels, and since September 2024, I’ve been a weekly boarder at Sidcot School. This means that I stay at School during the week but go home during the weekends.
At first, I was definitely a bit nervous about the whole idea of being away from home during the week and adjusting to a completely new routine. It felt like a big step, especially with the added pressure of starting new subjects and settling into Sixth Form life. But surprisingly, it didn’t take long for things to start feeling normal.
The boarding staff and other students were so friendly from the beginning, and that really helped me feel comfortable straight away. Everyone at Sidcot is incredibly welcoming, and there’s a strong sense of community that runs through everything, whether it’s in the classroom, the boarding house, or even just during dinner. There’s always someone around to talk to or help out, and the atmosphere feels calm, supportive, and genuinely caring, and now boarding has become one of the best parts of my week.
Why I Chose Boarding School
I chose to board because the daily journey to and from school was too much, and boarding gave me more time to focus on school, get organised, and be more independent. The facilities, like the gym and proper study spaces, make such a difference, and having a routine during the week helps keep everything balanced. Plus, it’s a great way to meet people. I’ve made some amazing friends, and there’s always something going on, even if you’re a weekly boarder.
A Typical Day as a Boarding Student at Sidcot
A typical day starts with breakfast at 7:30am before heading off to lessons. School finishes around 3:50pm, and after that there’s loads of time to do your own thing. You can head to the gym, chill in the common room, or walk down to the local village with friends. Dinner’s at 5:45pm, then we’ve got quiet study time from 6:45 to 7:45pm, which is actually really useful for keeping on top of A Level work. Evenings are pretty relaxed; we usually watch a movie, or I hang out with my friends in their dorms. For Year 12, lights out is at 11:00pm, and Years 10 & 11, lights out is at 10:30pm.
Why Sidcot’s Boarding Community Stands Out
What makes Sidcot so special is how international and open-minded it is. You’re surrounded by people from all sorts of countries, cultures, and beliefs, and it makes the whole place feel really unique. In class, during activities, or just hanging out in the boarding house, you’re always learning from others and seeing things from different perspectives. It’s a really open, friendly environment where everyone’s encouraged to just be themselves.
Equally, the atmosphere at Sidcot is what really makes it feel different. It’s calm, welcoming, and there’s always someone around if you need help. It’s a place that feels safe and supportive, and over time, it’s honestly started to feel like a second home during the week. I can focus on my studies, enjoy time with friends, and just be myself.
Discover Boarding at Sidcot
Lila’s experience demonstrates how boarding at Sidcot provides an ideal balance of independence, community, and pastoral care, enabling students to make the most of every opportunity both inside and outside the classroom.
Families interested in discovering what makes Sidcot such a distinctive environment for living and learning are warmly invited to book a personal tour or come along to our upcoming Open Morning on Friday 30 January. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore Sidcot’s boarding houses, meet dedicated staff and students, and gain insight into why an increasing number of UK families are choosing Sidcot for their child’s boarding journey.
Learn more about Boarding at Sidcot today! – Please link ‘Boarding at Sidcot’ to https://www.sidcot.org.uk/boarding
Categories: School News Sidcot School
