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First Week at A British Boarding School - What You Should Know

Hello from Richmond,

The first week at boarding school is a balancing act between homesickness, excitement, and new experiences. Almost every child needs a few days to get used to the uniform, the house system, and new routines – and almost all parents need about the same amount of time to let go. Those who know what to expect can react more calmly and make the settling-in period easier for everyone involved.

The beautiful dining hall at Brighton College

Logistics and Organisation

In England, things run a little differently. On the very first day, children are placed into their “House,” their boarding family that will be their home from now on. Each house has houseparents, a pastoral team, and older pupils who act as mentors. Uniforms are a big topic: from blazers and ties to sports socks, most schools prescribe exactly what belongs in the suitcase. Tip: Label everything with your child’s name – otherwise the risk of mix-ups in the “House Laundry” is high. Anything missing can usually be purchased in the school’s own “School Shop.”

Academics

Lessons start quickly, but with a sense of proportion. After a formal welcome by the Headmaster, new pupils take part in an induction programme that guides them through the library, the dining hall, and the sports facilities. Digital platforms – from the homework portal to school email – are also explained. Important to know: in the first days, it’s not about performance, but about settling in. Tutors make sure no one is left behind.

Bean bags for lounging at Clayesmore School

Co-Curricular Life

British boarding schools thrive on their rich “Co-Curricular Programme.” Already in the first week, children can try out clubs and activities: from hockey, rugby, and cricket to debating society, choir, or orchestra. This is where the first friendships are formed. Team spirit is nurtured not in the classroom, but on the sports field, the stage, or during “House Competitions.” Parents should know: participation matters more than talent. Pupils can sample three or four clubs before finding the right fit. The golden rule: join in, join in, join in – better to do more at the start.

Social Life

Beyond uniforms, lessons, and sports lies another big challenge: the new social world. Moving into a boarding house, starting in a new year group, and joining a whole new school community means instant exposure to many unfamiliar faces – often while English skills are not yet strong. That is exhausting and takes courage. Fortunately, teachers, houseparents, and fellow pupils are patient, empathetic, and supportive. The key is not to hide away: the best advice here is also to join in – whether it’s at the breakfast table, a house event, or a club – and never retreat into the bedroom. Language confidence and friendships grow naturally through participation.

Sometimes a bit of chocolate helps too, as here at King’s Ely

Emotions

Yes, homesickness often hits on the second or third evening, when the initial excitement wears off. Houseparents and mentors are prepared for this and create small rituals: a shared cup of tea, an evening chat, sometimes even a quick call via the house landline. For parents, the rule is: tears on the phone are normal. The best response is to listen, offer encouragement, and not immediately promise to bring the child home. In our experience, most pupils are already reporting new friends, exciting matches, or their first chapel service after just a few days. Very important: don’t call too often! That only slows down the process of settling in.

And for the Parents?

Parents, too, go through a period of adjustment. Suddenly the house is quiet, and family routines change. The good news: many British schools invite parents to a Welcome Event or a digital Q\&A in the first week. This allows parents to exchange questions and concerns and realise they are not alone. Our tip: treat yourself to something this week – an evening with friends, a trip, or a personal project. It makes letting go easier. And if things do get overwhelming, von Bülow is of course here to support you with advice and experience.

Our tips are based on von Bülow Education’s many years of close cooperation with British boarding schools, on conversations with parents and pupils during those crucial first weeks on site, and on information from the Boarding Schools’ Association (BSA) and the Good Schools Guide. We have also supplemented this with insights from admissions handbooks and welcome programmes of renowned schools such as Eton, Wellington, and Sevenoaks.

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von Bülow Education
Holbrooke House
34 - 38 Hill Rise
Richmond
TW10 6UA

Tel: +44 (0) 203 9534063
Email: info@buloweducation.com

—First Week at A British Boarding School - What You Should Know

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First Week at A British Boarding School - What You Should Know