)
What makes Boarding at Bedales Prep such a great experience?
Our co-educational boarding house sits in the heart of the main Prep School building, offering a warm and welcoming place to anyone beginning their boarding journey, whether that be as a full boarder, flexi boarder, or anything in between. What really makes the boarding experience at the Prep School so special is the sense of community. We are a close-knit group, in many ways like an extremely large family, who come together at the end of a school day to share highlights, look out for each other and enjoy each other’s company. There is always something fun to join in with, whether that be a game of cards in the kitchen, dodgeball in the hall or Capture the Flag on a sunny evening on Cobb’s field.
As Head of Prep Boarding, what advice would you give parents about boarding at Prep age?
Choosing boarding at Prep age is a significant step for the whole family, and my advice would be to approach it as a partnership with the school. No one knows your child better than you do, and that insight is invaluable for everyone involved in supporting your child as they begin their boarding journey. Communication between parents and house staff is absolutely key to helping anyone new to the boarding environment settle in and flourish. Boarding is a wonderful opportunity for children to grow in confidence and independence, and this works best when families feel involved. I would always encourage a ‘triangle of communication’ between home, school and boarders, ensuring that everyone feels informed, supported and connected.
What do you think makes the Bedales community so special?
What makes the Bedales community special is that the students are truly at the centre of everything we do. There is a strong sense of trust, creativity, and collaboration across the school, which shapes daily life and learning. With this comes a constant, natural evolution - an environment that grows and adapts alongside the young people within it.