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Life in a boarding school
The defining feature of a boarding school is the boarding house – the accommodation that belongs to the school. Pupils usually share a room with one or two others, although senior students are often given single rooms. Boys and girls live separately, and age groups are housed apart too. Each house has common rooms where students can play table football, board games or simply relax together.
A central part of boarding life is the presence of “house parents”: trusted adults who live alongside the students and act as first point of contact for everything from homesickness or stomach aches to signing up for driving lessons. Because students spend so much time together, a close-knit community develops – friendships are often formed here that can last a lifetime.
How to apply to a boarding school
For many young people, the decision to attend a boarding school comes from their own desire to experience this unique way of life. Sometimes, however, circumstances prompt the move. Either way, boarding school is an option for all students. Some schools offer qualifications equivalent to the German Realschulabschluss or Abitur, while abroad you can work towards the High School Diploma in the USA, A Levels in the UK, the Swiss Matura, or the International Baccalaureate (IB).
Since places are limited, pupils must apply to the school. While top grades are welcomed, excellent marks are not the only ticket in. Although some elite schools cater specifically for highly gifted students, the majority of boarding schools are open to all.
Learning and teaching at a boarding school
Boarding schools often provide particular advantages for students who struggle in the traditional classroom environment. Facilities tend to be modern and well equipped, with technology and innovative approaches enriching the teaching. Class sizes are usually much smaller than in mainstream schools – sometimes just seven or eight pupils per class. This enables teachers to give each child individual attention, nurturing strengths and supporting weaknesses.
The results speak for themselves: many boarding schools have pass rates close to 100 percent, and a significant number of alumni go on to top universities worldwide.
The curriculum is often broader than at mainstream schools, with subjects such as psychology, computer science, marine studies, or design technology on offer. Some schools even take things a step further: at the Admiral Farragut Academy in the USA, students can earn a pilot’s licence as part of their studies!
A place for personal growth
Life at boarding school shapes not just academic ability but character too. Living together naturally fosters teamwork, consideration, and a strong sense of community. Being away from parents also encourages responsibility and independence – qualities that are highly valued later in life.
This does not mean students lack freedom. The spacious campuses allow plenty of room for personal expression, and the wide range of extracurricular opportunities ensures that every student can pursue their passions.
Nurturing talent at boarding schools
Because students live and learn together, boarding schools devote significant attention to life beyond the classroom. Clubs, cultural events, and excursions are regular features. Many schools specialise in particular areas of talent development, with outstanding facilities and expert coaching in:
- Science and mathematics
- Sport
- Music
- Art
- Theatre
- Dance
For students with a clear talent and ambition, boarding schools are especially well placed to balance academic demands with extracurricular passion.
Sports academies
Among specialist boarding schools, sports academies are in high demand. They allow young athletes to train intensively without compromising their academic education. Training schedules are carefully integrated with lessons, ensuring future professionals can flourish in both worlds.
Some schools provide a broad sports programme with exceptional facilities. Mount Kelly School in England, for instance, is renowned for its swimming performance centre that has trained Olympic athletes, while also offering rugby and football. Ellesmere College also stands out with top-level provision in football, tennis, and athletics.
Other schools are more focused. Montverde Academy in Florida is famous for its basketball team, while Loretto School in Scotland has built a reputation as the country’s premier golf academy.
Art and music
Boarding schools are not just for athletes. Students with creative flair will find inspiring environments too. From orchestras, big bands, and ballet to sculpture, film-making, and drama productions, the opportunities are vast.
Some schools host annual cultural festivals, others stage ambitious theatre seasons. Budding musicians can take professional lessons or experiment with new instruments, while art students work in purpose-built studios. Crucially, art and music are not simply add-ons but are fully embedded into the curriculum.
Boarding schools abroad
Boarding schools exist in many countries worldwide. Choosing to study abroad adds further benefits: exposure to international perspectives, intercultural friendships, and language immersion.
English-speaking countries, in particular, are popular destinations. Students not only study in English but also live it day-to-day with peers – progress is often strikingly fast, even for those who once found the language challenging.
Boarding schools in the USA and UK
In the UK and Scotland, many boarding schools are centuries-old institutions with a reputation for academic excellence. In the USA, schools are known for their outstanding facilities and broad, flexible programmes. Both countries welcome international students, including those from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, for anything from a single term to several years leading up to graduation.
FAQ Boarding School
How much does a boarding school cost?
Fees vary greatly depending on country and school, but families can expect between €30,000 and €180,000 per year. Tuition, meals, and accommodation are included.
Can anyone attend a boarding school?
Yes. Boarding schools come in many forms, from selective academic institutions to schools open to all. Every applicant goes through a registration and admissions process.
What are the advantages of boarding school?
Boarding schools typically combine excellent teaching in small classes with impressive facilities and opportunities in sport, art, and music. Beyond academics, they also develop independence, resilience, and a global outlook.
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Julia Wilmes
Managing Director
Supporting families through these important steps in their children’s educational journey has become my heartfelt mission since founding Akademis. That is why it is especially important to me that we dedicate ourselves to every student seeking a boarding school with empathy and personal care.
