If you’re considering a boarding school for your child, it might come as a surprise to learn that there are government funded options. Much lesser-known than their independent counterparts, there are just over 30 state boarding schools in the UK.
Often rivalling the best independent schools, the UK’s state boarding schools offer a unique blend of affordability and excellence. Here are seven compelling reasons why you should consider a state boarding school for your child.
One of the UK’s best-kept secrets
Despite their benefits, the UK’s state boarding schools remain relatively unknown to many families. British and Irish citizens and anyone with a right of residence in the UK is eligible to apply, although some are grammar schools and may be academically selective.
Those who discover them often find that they present an exceptional, yet affordable, boarding experience. With an education that can rival the top independent boarding schools, state boarding schools also offer several other unique advantages.
Affordability meets excellence
State boarding schools do not charge tuition fees as they receive funding from the government. With weekly or full boarding options, parents only pay for accommodation and live-in costs, and some schools will also charge for additional extra curricular activities.
As overall costs are considerably lower, state boarding schools are a more accessible option for families seeking a top-tier education for their child without the hefty price tag.
A culture of inclusivity and diversity
High fees often equate to social exclusivity. State boarding schools with their lower fees are more accessible to families from a range of different socioeconomic backgrounds. This often creates a more diverse and inclusive school population and culture.
Being able to interact with peers from different cultural backgrounds helps pupils to widen their perspectives. Building global awareness is an important part of preparing young people for life after school in an increasingly interconnected world.
Cranbrook School is a co-educational state grammar school in Kent offering 260 places to boarders. The school’s Head, David Clark says “Our boarders hail from the UK and overseas and enrich our community with different cultures and perspectives. We are proud to celebrate and promote them all across the School.”
Academic success
Many state boarding schools are regularly among the highest-ranking in league tables. Outside inspection assures quality, with some offering UK qualifications such as GCSEs and A Levels, whilst others follow the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (IBDP).
Cranbrook School offers a broad and balanced curriculum divided into Key Stage 3,4, and 5. The school’s Head, David Clark says: “Our academic results are consistently among the best for state schools in the country, and our leavers head to a variety of top destinations, including Oxbridge and many Russell Group universities.”
Top tier facilities and opportunities
As state-funded institutions, state boarding schools have access to government resources, support networks, and initiatives aimed at improving educational outcomes. Due to funding, facilities and extracurricular opportunities at state boarding will often rival those at independent schools.
Situated in the stunning Wealden countryside and just half an hour from the coast, Cranbrook School benefits from 75 acres of green space. The school boasts excellent facilities and has a state-of-the-art Sixth Form Centre. Pupils are able to take advantage of a broad extra-curricular programme that offers everything from book clubs, dance classes, all forms of performance arts, young enterprise groups, and environmental studies – to favourites such as chess, robotics, riding and cookery.
A focus on core educational values
Focused on delivering quality education to all pupils regardless of their background, state boarding schools are often driven by a strong ethos of public service.
Without the pressures of exclusivity or prestige, state boarding schools are able to put an emphasis on learning and personal development.
A supportive and nurturing environment
With a diverse community, state boarding schools often put wellbeing at the heart of everything they do. These schools often have supportive, close-knit communities, where pupils form life-long friendships. The shared experience of living and learning together, means that teachers and peers alike form a strong network of emotional and social support.
A small school, each pupil at Cranbrook is known and cared for. Head David Clark says: “Our boarding family is happy and vibrant thanks to the excellent accommodation in our six Houses, our skilled, dedicated House teams, and an extensive programme of activities. Cranbrookians develop independent spirits, have a passion for team sports and the arts, are curious about their world and make lifelong friendships.”
Final thoughts
State boarding schools offer a unique combination of quality education, a diverse and inclusive environment, and nurturing care—all at an affordable cost. If you’re considering a boarding school for your child, a state boarding school may well just be the perfect choice.
This is a sponsored post created in collaboration with Cranbrook School a state boarding school for boys and girls aged 11-18 in Cranbrook, Kent.
Read more school news here.
You may also like...
