For London families contemplating boarding options there’s a lot to consider. The lure of countryside boarding schools with their green open spaces and fresh air is undeniable. However on the flip side, city boarding schools offer all the culture of the capital and proximity to home. Boarding schools within a few hours commuting distance of London offer the best of both worlds. Children can experience an idyllic escape from the city where they can learn, play, and grow—all while being close enough to home for weekend visits.
Here’s five reasons why you should consider boarding outside of London for your child
1. The freedoms of green outdoor spaces
Boarding schools outside of London often benefit from acres of green space, removed from the hustle and bustle (and pollution!) of the big city. From vast playing fields for practising sports, to untamed woodland for forest school sessions, boarding schools offer ample opportunities for children to explore the outdoors. Research highlights the positive impact of nature on mental health and spending time outdoors is also linked to higher academic achievement.
Situated just minutes from the heart of the historical city of York, St Peter’s School is just a two hour train ride from London. The co-educational independent boarding and day school for pupils aged 2-18 has a beautiful riverside campus that benefits from 50 acres of green space. The school says:
“Our academic results are outstanding but we believe that independent thinking and a love of learning are just as important as excellent grades. Here there is a real focus on developing intellectual curiosity in the classroom and participation in abundant co-curricular options, with pupils and staff being members of a vibrant, learning community.”
2. Boarding schools might be a lot closer than you think
Location is a top priority for parents and many London families rule out schools based on distance. The prospect of sending your child away to boarding school can feel daunting, especially if it seems far from home. However, many schools outside of London are surprisingly accessible. Trains from major stations such as Paddington, Waterloo, or King’s Cross link directly to picturesque regions offering accessibility to some of the UK’s most respected boarding schools. Being able to take a train from central London allows parents to visit easily, whether for matches, concerts, or weekend check-ins.
3. Immersion in a school’s community
Boarding schools outside of London benefit from a lot more than just physical space. These schools often have smaller class sizes, creating a close-knit community where every child is known, nurtured, and supported. Without the distractions of London living and long commutes, boarders are able to immerse themselves in every aspect of school life.
The slower pace of life also helps pupils forge deeper connections with their peers and teachers. This fosters a sense of belonging that is often harder to achieve in larger urban schools. This not only helps children to thrive academically but also fosters lifelong friendships that are encouraged by an active alumni community.
At St Peter’s School, being part of the boarding community affords pupils more time to take advantage of all the school has to offer. The school says: “Being part of our boarding community allows pupils to dedicate more time to the things they love. Living in an immersive environment dedicated to learning encourages focus, determination and progress. Boarders benefit from structured prep supervision and unrivalled access to our riverside campus, including our gym, swimming pool, sports facilities, music rooms, library and House gardens.”
4. The freedom of a large campus school
From navigating busy London streets, to limited access to outdoor areas, city living often comes with constraints. Escaping the crowded environment opens the door to an education full of adventure, freedom, and discovery.
Blending academic rigour with co-curricular opportunities, and outstanding pastoral care, these schools place a strong emphasis on wellbeing and personal growth. Outdoor pursuits, creative arts, and physical activities are seamlessly integrated into boarders’ daily lives.
Pupils are encouraged to explore and find their passions. With ample green space, schools can offer a number of otherwise difficult to access co-curriculars such as rowing, CCF or cricket, all offered on site. This not only helps children to make life-long happy memories, but it also ensures they leave school as well-rounded person.
The extensive co-curricular programme at St Peter’s School offers pupils an exceptional array of opportunities in music, sports, the arts and much more. The school says: “As its name suggests, co-curricular sits alongside the curriculum rather than as an extra. It is a vital element in developing our pupils’ skills and interests for them to enjoy at school and take into their adult lives.”
5. Schools near cities can offer the best of both worlds
If you would like to give your child the freedom that schools with a larger campus can give but don’t want them to miss out on the cultural opportunities that cities bring, choose a school within walking distance to a city. Pupils can then take full advantage of theatres, art galleries and local historical sights during their weekends and through school trips, whilst still enjoying the green space that would not be possible in London.
Final thoughts: is it time to think green for London families?
Boarding within commuting distance to the capital offers the best of both worlds: a top-quality education, a quick train journey back home, and the space and freedom for children to flourish. London families—your child’s boarding adventure could be closer than you think.
This is a sponsored post created in collaboration with St Peter’s School, a co-educational independent boarding and day school in York.
Read more school news here.
You may also like...
