When it comes to a boarding school education, there are many things to consider, and boarding school fees will, of course, be included in that list. Choosing a boarding school is an important decision and having all of the facts and information about the costs involved, and any available funding, can help you make that choice. In this guide, we will explain what’s included in boarding school fees and provide help and advice about accessing funding for private schools, including the scholarships and bursaries available to you.
Boarding School Fees
Every independent boarding school will have its own fee structure, and the overall costs will vary according to the area, the school and the provision on offer. Generally speaking, boarding school fees in the UK range from around £10,000 per term to as much as £18,000 per term. Day students and those opting for flexible boarding will pay lower fees depending on their individual arrangements.
Boarding school fees are also subject to a registration fee and a deposit. Sidcot School fees are payable in three instalments, which is the case for many boarding schools in the UK. Boarding school fees are often reviewed on an annual basis to ensure they accurately reflect the standard of education and facilities available. At Sidcot, we review all of our fees in the spring term.
What Do Boarding School Fees Include?
Boarding school fees, first and foremost, include tuition and an exceptional standard of education. Boarding school life is about much more than just lessons though, and fees at Sidcot School include:
- Meals and snacks
- Full board
- Most activities, with a few exceptions
- Laundry
- Healthcare
This is typical of most independent boarding schools, but it’s always advisable to thoroughly check exactly what’s included in boarding school fees and what might incur an extra charge. At Sidcot School, there are additional costs for specialist tuition, exam charges and specific activities such as horse riding lessons. Knowing what to expect and what to plan for can be especially helpful when looking into funding for private schools.
Funding For Private Schools
There are some funding options available for parents wishing to send their child to an independent boarding school. Funding for private schools usually takes the form of either a scholarship or bursary.
For independent schools with a Nursery or Preschool provision like Sidcot, early years funding is available for all children in England and Wales after their third birthday. At Sidcot this funding entitles every child to 15 hours free childcare.
Sidcot School also offers a 10% sibling discount on boarding school fees to encourage siblings to attend Sidcot and enjoy their experience together.
Private School Scholarships
Private school scholarships are not a financial reward as such, but an opportunity for children who excel in certain areas to gain extra support so that they can go on to make a difference in their chosen field. Private school scholarships are most often awarded at ages 11, 13 and 16 and can be for new or existing students.
Some private school scholarships do have a financial incentive attached, with a Sidcot School scholarship offering students a 10% reduction in fees. To receive a private school scholarship, students are required to pass academic or special tests and undergo an interview. The process may be a little different depending on the type of scholarship. At Sidcot School, we have five categories:
- Academic - for students who demonstrate exceptional intellectual ability.
- Talent - for students who are talented in Art, Design Technology, Drama, Music, Sport or Equestrian.
- All Rounder - for students who are high achieving across several areas.
- Peace And Global - for students who show commitment to environmental causes, social justice and global awareness.
- The Roger Croker Scholarship - for students who fully embrace the Sidcot ethos of ‘Living Adventurously’.
Having five key areas means different kinds of students get the chance to apply for a private school scholarship at Sidcot. What matters to us is that every student is able to be themselves and excel in whatever passions and interests they have.
Bursaries For Private School
A bursary is a means-tested route for accessing funding for private schools. Bursaries for private school pupils are becoming more common across the UK. In some cases, a bursary may be awarded alongside a scholarship if there is a financial need and a very promising student would otherwise be unable to enter the school.
Sidcot School bursaries allow children to attend Sidcot at a discounted rate, usually for the entire time they are with us. We also offer some hardship bursaries for students already at Sidcot. This is for those who may be experiencing hardship and do not want to disrupt their child’s education.
Bursaries for private school fees are subject to an application process where parents have to give details of their financial circumstances. They have to show documentary evidence, which usually includes capital assets.
Sidcot School Admissions
Boarding school fees are part of the boarding school admissions process. At Sidcot, we are completely transparent about our fees and what parents and students can expect. We think it’s important for everyone to have all the information they need before they start the admissions process.
We also believe in treating every child as an individual and giving them the chance to excel, whether that’s in an academic subject, a creative area or a sport. That’s why we have several options to help with private school funding and applying for a place with us.
Our prospectus can tell you more about Sidcot School as a whole, and has information on the specific boarding school fees according to the age of your child and the boarding option you choose. You can also see a normal school day at Sidcot by attending one of our open mornings, or simply contact us to ask any questions about boarding school fees or other aspects of life at Sidcot.