St Edmund's

Our house system makes it easy for pupils to build friendships. Every new boarder is assigned a ‘buddy’ to help them settle in during their first days and weeks. Younger pupils may share rooms with peers, and weekend activities often include multiple year groups, giving everyone the chance to meet friends of different ages. We also run trips and social events throughout the term to encourage friendships to develop naturally.

St Edmund’s has four boarding areas: Owen House, School House, New Wing, and Baker. These include separate accommodation for boys and girls, with age-appropriate rooms and facilities.

Single rooms are usually reserved for Upper Sixth pupils. All other boarders stay in double, triple, or divided dormitories.

Yes – pupils are encouraged to personalise their rooms with appropriate decorations.

Yes, the city centre is just a short walk or bus ride away. Younger pupils are accompanied by staff on trips, while older pupils can explore independently at designated times. The Boarders’ Daily Routine outlines permissions for leaving the school.

No – the school closes during all holidays, including half-term. Pupils must return home or to their guardians.

There are four Exeat Weekends each year. Pupils may leave on Friday afternoon to spend the weekend with parents or guardians. Reduced supervision is available for those who stay at school (this incurs an additional fee).

Yes – all boarding fees cover three meals a day plus snacks.

Yes – pupils can continue an instrument they already play or take up a new one at school. Music lessons take place during or outside the school day. Extra charges apply for individual lessons. Contact music@stedmunds.org.uk for more information.

Pupils may wear casual clothing during evenings, weekends, and designated times. However, all pupils must have at least one pair of smart-casual trousers (not denim) and some collared shirts. A full clothing list is available on our website.

No – the school provides a full laundry service. Pupils are expected to make their beds and keep their rooms tidy.

No – bedding is provided, including pillows, pillowcases, sheets, duvets, and blankets. Many pupils like to bring their own duvet covers.

Yes – pupils have access to Wi-Fi in the boarding houses and school IT rooms. Internet use is monitored to ensure safety and wellbeing. As part of our digital wellbeing policy, pupils’ mobile phones are collected during the school day to encourage focus in lessons, face-to-face interaction, and rest from constant screen time. Devices are returned after the school day for appropriate use during personal time.

Yes – pupils may bring laptops, but we recommend they have insurance. Our IT team will ensure laptops are configured with the correct software and security. There are also plenty of school PCs available.

Yes – each pupil receives a school email account.

Taxis must be arranged in advance by parents or guardians (approx. £80 one-way to Gatwick, £110 to Heathrow). Our boarding team can recommend reliable local taxi companies.

All boarding areas have secure access. Rooms are lockable or have lockable compartments. Pupils are encouraged to bring a padlock or combination lock for extra security.

£20–£30 per week is typical. Larger amounts can be deposited with the Director of Boarding. Bank accounts can also be arranged.

All boarders are registered with the school doctor and receive treatment via the NHS. Parents may choose private insurance if they wish to cover private hospital treatment.

Flexi boarding allows pupils to stay at school on selected nights rather than full-time. This offers flexibility for families while still giving children the benefits of boarding life, such as access to evening activities and a safe, supervised environment. Families can discuss their needs with the boarding team to set up a personalised schedule.

Check out our Senior School (Year 9 – 13) Flexi Boarding Options