Top UK Boarding Schools

Hurtwood House is a unique independent boarding school in Surrey exclusively for Sixth Form students (ages 16–18). Often dubbed “the most exciting school in England,” Hurtwood blends the creative energy of a performing arts college with the academic rigour of a top traditional school​. With around 350 students, it offers an informal, university-like environment – no uniforms, first-name basis with staff – yet consistently achieves outstanding A-Level results, placing it in the top ranks nationally for co-ed boarding schools​. Renowned for its creativity, innovative approach, and warm community, Hurtwood House provides an ideal stepping-stone between school and university for ambitious and independent-minded students.

Bromsgrove School is a large co-educational day and boarding school in Worcestershire that educates children from ages 2 through 18. Set across 100 acres of beautiful campus, Bromsgrove combines a 500-year heritage with modern, progressive education​. The School offers boarding from age 7+ and is renowned for its exceptional academic results at A Level, IB Diploma and GCSE​, as well as a powerhouse reputation in sport and a truly global outlook with pupils from over 50 nationalities​. Bromsgrove is frequently ranked among the top independent schools nationwide and provides a vibrant, “full-on” education for its 1,600+ pupils.

Clifton College is a prestigious co-educational day and boarding school in Bristol, educating boys and girls aged 2–18 (boarding from age 8)​. Founded in 1862, Clifton is set in historic buildings in the elegant Clifton area, providing an inspiring backdrop for learning​. It offers an all-through education from Nursery to Sixth Form, with a strong reputation for academic excellence, all-around opportunities, and a forward-looking global outlook.
Clifton’s motto, “Spirit, Mind, Body”, reflects its commitment to developing well-rounded individuals.

Leighton Park is a leading co-educational day and boarding school in Reading, Berkshire, for students aged 11–18​. Founded on Quaker values, it offers an inclusive and values-driven education that emphasizes both academic excellence and character development. Leighton Park is known as “Reading’s IB World School,” offering A Levels and the International Baccalaureate Diploma in the Sixth Form​. With its 65-acre parkland campus and ethos of “learning with values,” Leighton Park provides a nurturing environment where individuals truly flourish.

Handcross Park is a top co-educational preparatory school in West Sussex, offering day and boarding education for boys and girls aged 2–13​. Set on a beautiful 52-acre countryside campus just outside Haywards Heath, the school provides a nurturing environment that blends traditional values with inspiring teaching and facilities​. As part of the Brighton College family of schools, Handcross Park is known for its excellent academics, robust pastoral care, and successful preparation of pupils for leading senior schools.

Brighton College is one of the UK’s leading co-educational day and boarding schools, located in Brighton, East Sussex. It educates boys and girls aged 3–18 (with the Senior School from 11+), and has been acclaimed as “United Kingdom School of the Decade” by The Sunday Times​. The College regularly achieves top exam results among co-ed schools and is known for its innovative teaching, vibrant seaside campus, and a warm culture of kindness and inclusivity.

Caterham School is a high-achieving co-educational day and boarding school in Surrey for students aged 11–18​. Set in the picturesque Harestone Valley near London, Caterham combines academic excellence with a forward-thinking ethos. It was named Independent Senior School of the Year 2023 (Tes Awards)​ and is renowned for its innovative digital learning program, superb pastoral care, and strong record of leavers progressing to top Russell Group universities​.