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Our Glossary

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A Comprehensive Glossary for British Boarding Schools terms

 Ever wondered why everyone at a British boarding school seems to be speaking perfectly good English, but you still don’t understand half of it? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. From “Exeats” to “Prep,” the boarding school world comes with its very own vocabulary. Here’s your cheat sheet to help understand everything you need to know. Both as parent and pupil.

Select a letter
A
A-Level

The A-Level is the classic school-leaving qualification at British boarding schools – essentially the UK equivalent of the German Abitur. With the right choice of subjects, it is recognised in Germany as a subject-specific higher education entrance qualification.

Academic Clinics

Sounds like a doctor's appointment, but actually helps with Maths, Biology & Co: Academic Clinics are a staple at many British boarding schools – and a real insider tip for quick academic support. Got a question in a subject? Just drop by the next clinic. Most of the time it’s completely spontaneous and refreshingly straightforward – and you’ll get the help you need right away.

Afternoon Tea

On special occasions, things get a little fancy: scones, clotted cream, jam, and delicate little sandwiches. It doesn’t get more British than that.

C
CAS - Confirmation of Acceptance

No CAS, no visa! The CAS letter is the official document your British school requests from the UK Home Office. As soon as you receive your CAS number, you can get started with the visa application.

CAT4 - Cognitive Abilities Test

Admission to a British boarding school usually involves tests. But not every school relies on traditional exams in Maths or English. Some prefer the CAT4, a cognitive ability test that shows how a child thinks, learns, and solves problems. It measures potential rather than school knowledge and helps schools tailor their approach to support each pupil individually.

CCF - Combined Cadet Force

It doesn’t get more British than this: in the CCF (Combined Cadet Force), pupils slip into camouflage uniforms and train in Army, Navy, or Air Force units, building leadership skills, team spirit, and resilience. Sounds strict, but many students find it great fun. CCF is offered at many of our partner schools as an optional extracurricular programme.

Clubs

At British boarding schools, the timetable isn’t just about academics. It’s also packed with so-called co-curricular activities - also called clubs. From archery, coding club, book club, DJ society, photography, to creative writing: schools often offer over 100 clubs each term, going far beyond traditional sports.

Up to and including Year 11, pupils are usually required to take part in two activities per week. After that, it’s up to them whether they spend the time on studying or on creative exploration.

Co-ed

“Co-ed” stands for co-educational and refers to a school where boys and girls are taught together. Unlike single-sex schools, co-ed schools emphasise mixed classes and shared learning in everyday life. Most of our partner schools are co-ed.

Courses

At British boarding schools, there is usually no fixed class group. Instead, pupils learn in subject courses chosen according to their level and interests. Up to Year 8, subjects are still largely prescribed, but after that, the choice becomes wider. In the Sixth Form (A-Levels), students put together their courses freely, based on their strengths and future plans – much like in the German upper school system.

D
Deposit

The deposit is a security payment due upon final enrolment at the school. It guarantees the school place and is refunded after the stay, minus any outstanding costs, such as excursions or damages in the boarding house room.

Duke of Edinburgh's Award

The DofE Award is one of the most popular programmes at British boarding schools – a mix of adventure, responsibility, and real team building. In the areas of volunteering, sports, personal skills, and expeditions, pupils push beyond their limits. Those who make it all the way to the Gold level gain not only lasting experiences but also a highly respected credential that stands out with universities and employers alike.

E
ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation)

To enter the UK, you need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). Holders of a Child Student or Student Visa are exempt. EU citizens can apply for the ETA via the official UK ETA app or online at GOV.UK. Further information is available on the website of the German Federal Foreign Office. Once issued, the ETA is valid for multiple entries within a two-year period (or until the passport used for the application expires). An application fee of £16 applies (as of October 2025).

Exeat weekend

An Exeat Weekend is basically a “boarding-free” weekend that usually happens four to six times a year. Many schools close completely, while some keep one house open for students who can’t or don’t want to leave. There’s hardly any program running during that time – which means it’s your chance to properly recharge. Not every boarding school has Exeat Weekends. And if you do stay, you’ll experience the school from a very different angle.

F
Fees (Tuition & Boarding)

Fees are what British boarding schools charge for tuition, accommodation, meals, and activities. The annual fee is split into three termly payments. Expect around £16,000–£20,000 per term – and keep in mind, fees tend to rise by roughly 6% each year.

Fish and Chips

The ultimate British classic: crispy fried cod or haddock, served with chunky chips and a splash of malt vinegar, plus a side of mushy peas. For many Brits, it’s the nation’s unofficial comfort food.

Full English Breakfast

The Full British Breakfast spread: eggs, bacon, sausages, beans, tomato, mushrooms, toast – and for the brave, a slice of black pudding. Cheers, stomach!

G
Games & Activities

At British boarding schools, sport is very much part of everyday life. Under the heading “Games”, several sessions a week are built into the timetable. There is usually some choice, but the programme depends on the season – meaning not every sport is available all year round.

 A typical set-up looks like this:

Girls – 1st term = Hockey, 2nd term = Netball, 3rd term = Athletics, Tennis or Cricket
Boys – 1st term = Rugby, 2nd term = Hockey or Football, 3rd term = Tennis or Cricket

So, if you’re only staying for one term, you may well miss “your” sport. That’s often just how it is – part of the British school model. The good news: there are always alternatives, from cross-country running to climbing.

 On top of that come the Activities: optional clubs in the afternoons or evenings where there really is something for everyone – from beekeeping, theatre and coding to rowing, or even Zumba.

GCSE / IGCSE

The GCSEs (General Certificate of Secondary Education) and IGCSEs (International GCSE) are the exams British pupils take at the end of lower secondary school – the UK’s equivalent of the German Mittlerer Schulabschluss (MSA). Technically a leaving certificate, in practice they’re the stepping stone to A Levels.

Students usually sit 8–15 subjects, from Maths and English Literature to Art & Design. The IGCSE is designed with international pupils in mind and often takes a more global, practical approach.

Grades

That’s what school marks are called in the UK. At A Level, results come as letters: from A* (top) down to U (fail) – with an E still counting as a pass. For (I)GCSEs, it’s numbers instead: 9 is the highest, 1 the lowest. And in the IB? Yet another system – scores run from 7 (excellent) to 1 (fail).

Guardian

This is the official contact person in the UK that international pupils must list with their school. Almost all boarding schools require one – a reliable point of contact in case of emergencies, Exeat weekends, or whenever short-term care outside school is needed.

This can either be a trusted individual living in the UK (over 25 and not a student) or a professional guardian agency. Schools normally expect 24/7 availability and will ask for official proof of guardianship before term starts.

H
Head / Headmaster / Headmistress / Principal / Warden

The Head is the face and heart of the school – sometimes called “Headmaster”, “Headmistress”, “Principal” or, at certain historic schools, even “Warden”. He or she carries overall responsibility: from strategic direction and academic standards to the wider school culture. The Head shapes the atmosphere on campus, leads the Senior Leadership Team and makes both the big and the small decisions that define daily life for pupils and staff alike.

Health Insurance

Pupils studying in the UK for more than six months on a Child Student Visa are automatically covered by the state healthcare system, the NHS (National Health Service). As part of the visa application, the so-called Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) must be paid – currently £776 per year (as of 2025). This fee is mandatory, even if your child already has private health insurance – there are no exemptions.

Once paid, your child will have access to almost all NHS services, such as GP appointments and hospital treatment. In most cases there are no additional charges, except for items such as dental prosthetics or certain medications. The IHS is calculated pro rata depending on the length of stay.

Important: Without payment of the IHS, a visa will not be granted.

House

At many British boarding schools, pupils are placed into a House. The system goes back to traditional schools like Eton – and thanks to Harry Potter it’s now known all over the world. Houses give structure to school life, create a real sense of belonging, boost team spirit and often become the centre of sports matches, inter-house competitions and everyday community life.

Housemaster / Housemistress

At a British boarding school, every pupil belongs to a House. Within that House, the Housemaster or Housemistress – often simply called the Houseparents – are the key figures. They live on site with the pupils, usually with their own family, and are a constant presence in daily life. Whether it’s homesickness, a clash with roommates, questions about school routines or worries about friendships and free time, the Houseparents are always there to listen. At the same time, they create a structured yet warm, family-like atmosphere where young people feel safe, supported and truly at home.

I
International Baccalaureate (IB)

The IB Diploma is a highly respected international qualification, offered at many British boarding schools. Pupils choose six subjects from six groups – three at Higher Level (HL) and three at Standard Level (SL). These are complemented by Theory of Knowledge, the Extended Essay and the CAS programme (Creativity, Activity, Service).
For German students, the IB is particularly attractive, as with the right subject choices it is recognised as the equivalent of the German Abitur (either general or subject-specific). This means it fully qualifies them for university study in Germany.

 

M
Marmite

You either love it… or you hate it – there’s no middle ground. This dark, salty yeast-extract spread divides Britain like no other breakfast staple. For many, Marmite is the very taste of British culture; for others, it’s simply inedible. Our tip: be brave, give it a try – and decide for yourself. (Toast helps.)

Matron (bzw. House Manager)

Every boarding house has a Matron (sometimes called a House Manager) who, alongside the Houseparents, is a key point of contact and helps create a safe, homely environment. She also takes on organisational tasks such as accompanying pupils to medical appointments. Typically on duty from morning until late afternoon during the week, the Matron supports all aspects of daily life: from laundry and hygiene to checking cleanliness. She is also trained to give first aid, manage sickness absences and, in coordination with the school and parents, provide support with health-related matters.

N
National Health Service

Anyone studying in the UK for more than six months on a Child Student Visa must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). This gives your child full access to the National Health Service (NHS). It usually covers GP visits, emergency treatment and psychological support free of charge (dentistry, eye tests and prescription medicines are excluded). The cost is around £776 per year.

O
Offer Letter

If a boarding school offers your child a place, you’ll receive the official written confirmation known as the Offer Letter. This sets out a deadline by which you must accept the place (usually by email or a signed reply form).

The place only becomes binding once you have signed the Acceptance Form and the Terms & Conditions, and paid the deposit. Only then is your child’s place fully secured.

P
Pastoral Care

Pastoral care refers to the all-round support given to pupils – not just academically, but also emotionally and physically. It’s backed by a network of tutors, Houseparents, Matrons, psychologists and peer mentoring, all working to ensure pupils feel safe, supported and at home.

Personal Belongings Insurance / Student Contents Insurance

Some schools offer insurance for personal belongings such as laptops, tablets, musical instruments or sports gear. Policies usually cover theft, damage or loss – sometimes even beyond the school grounds – with cover often up to £7,500 and a small excess of around £10. Not every school includes this automatically, so it’s worth checking with the Admissions Office whether you need to arrange it yourself.

Politeness & Indirectness

The British are masters of understatement. A politely murmured “That’s interesting” can just as easily mean “Well, that’s rather odd.” Those who can read between the lines definitely have the upper hand!

Pre-IB / Pre-Sixth / One-Year GCSE

Many British boarding schools offer a special preparatory year in Year 11, often called Pre-IB, Pre-Sixth or One-Year GCSE. This year is designed to get pupils ready for Sixth Form programmes such as the IB Diploma or A levels, with formal GCSE or IGCSE exams taken at the end.

Typically, pupils sit fewer subjects than in a full GCSE course. With full integration into school life plus extra support (for example EAL or tutorial sessions), the programme is mainly aimed at international students.

Prefect

A Prefect is a bit like a mix of class representative, mentor and house role model. They’re usually appointed in the Sixth Form and are given a voice in school matters as well as responsibility in daily life. It’s a real mark of trust – and a great boost for confidence.

Prep Time

“Prep” is the evening study period at British boarding schools – usually between 7 and 9 pm, though younger pupils often start earlier. It’s supervised by house staff or Prefects and, as the name suggests, it’s the time to get homework done.

PSHE

PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education) is a compulsory course for all year groups – tailored to pupils’ ages. The aim: getting students ready for life. Topics range from the many shapes of relationships and career guidance to lifestyle choices and making smart decisions in tricky situations. In short, PSHE is there to help pupils grow into confident, thoughtful individuals who are well prepared for the future.

Puddings

British desserts like Sticky Toffee Pudding, Treacle Tart or a proper crumble with custard are true classics. Warm, sweet and a little bit sticky – they’re comfort food at its best, the kind that makes you forget all about the famously gloomy British weather. Some say you haven’t really experienced boarding school life until you’ve queued up for pudding in the dining hall.

Q
Queueing

In Britain, queuing is sacred. Jump the line and you risk disapproving looks – or even social exile. Patience pays off, and nothing is more very British than waiting your turn.

R
Registration Form

Registration is the first formal step in the application process – and often a requirement for taking part in Assessment Days. Before your child can sit written tests or receive an official Offer Letter, you’ll need to complete the school’s Registration Form and pay the non-refundable Registration Fee. Depending on the school, this fee is usually between £100 and £500, sometimes higher.

Many schools recommend starting the registration process at least one to two years before entry – the earlier, the better.

Remembrance Day (11 November)

On this day, many pupils wear a red poppy on their lapel to honour fallen soldiers. Schools often mark the occasion with a minute’s silence.

Report

In British boarding schools, a Report is a progress report that goes beyond a simple record of grades. Unlike in Germany, it is issued up to three times per term. It includes marks in each subject, assessments of performance and behaviour – often with a specific rating for effort – as well as personalised comments from teachers highlighting strengths, areas for development and individual targets.

Round Square

Round Square is a global network of over 200 schools, founded on the educational principles of Kurt Hahn. He coined the guiding idea: “There is more in us than we know” – a challenge for pupils to discover and unlock their own potential. At the heart of Round Square are the six IDEALS: Internationalism, Democracy, Environmentalism, Adventure, Leadership and Service. These principles run through lessons, school life and extracurricular projects, encouraging pupils to think globally, act democratically, take responsibility for the environment and society, embrace challenge, develop leadership skills and commit to serving others.

S
Sandwich Culture

In Britain, just about anything can go between two slices of bread – from egg mayo to the royally inspired Coronation Chicken. It may sound odd, but it’s a true classic – and surprisingly delicious.

Sarcasm & Understatement

British humour is famously dry, ironic and often slips by almost unnoticed. A casual “Not bad” can mean “absolutely brilliant”, while “Could be worse” sometimes really means “That was hell.”

School Dinner

British boarding schools often serve classics like cottage pie, sausages with mash or baked pasta. Simple, filling and designed to feed the masses – sometimes a little plain in flavour, but for many pupils it’s an unmistakable part of everyday boarding school life.

School Fee Insurance

Many British boarding schools offer School Fee Insurance. This cover releases parents from the obligation to pay school fees if their child is unable to attend lessons for an extended period (for example, due to illness or accident). Typical costs are between £80 and £100 per term. Schools usually offer it on an opt-in basis at enrolment, and in some cases you need to opt out in writing if you don’t want it. We generally recommend taking out this policy, as in the event of a claim it covers a large part of the fees.

School uniform

At almost every British boarding school, uniform is part of the deal: blazer, shirt, tie, skirt or trousers – neat, matching and, best of all, no morning wardrobe panic. By Sixth Form things ease up a little, with most schools switching to smart business dress (think tidy, grown-up but not too flashy). The exact rules arrive in the Joining Instructions before term starts – and yes, that tie really does need to be straight.

Sports Day & School Fixtures

Sports Day is the big annual athletics event – a full-school occasion of races, relays and plenty of cheering from the sidelines. School fixtures are the regular matches against other schools, a staple of boarding school life and a source of both rivalry and pride.

Subjects

Once a place has been accepted, the process of choosing subjects begins. Unlike in Germany, pupils usually have far more choice and far fewer rigid requirements.

 In the GCSE years (Years 10 and 11), English, Maths and Science are compulsory. On top of that come options such as History, Geography, Art, Music or Computer Science. Modern languages like Spanish or Mandarin are also often available.

In the Sixth Form (A levels), pupils typically select three to four subjects depending on their strengths and interests – anything from Biology, Psychology or Politics to Design & Technology. IB students take six subjects from defined groups, such as Language & Literature, Sciences or the Arts. Many schools offer guidance or hold conversations around subject choice, particularly if a pupil is planning to apply to university abroad

Sunday Roast

A classic Sunday feast: roast beef or chicken, crispy potatoes, vegetables and the legendary Yorkshire pudding – all drenched in a generous helping of gravy.

T
Tea & Biscuit

The great British pause: a cup of English Breakfast or Earl Grey, with a Digestive or Custard Cream on the side. Simple, unmistakably British – and dangerously moreish, because nobody ever stops at just one biscuit.

Terms

The British school year is divided into three terms, each lasting around twelve weeks and separated by longer holidays. The names are steeped in tradition – and used consistently across most boarding schools:

  • Michaelmas Term (also Autumn Term): early September to mid-December
  • Lent Term (also Spring Term): early January to late March
  • Summer Term (also Trinity Term): mid-April to late June or early July 

Halfway through each term comes a Half-Term Break – usually one week, sometimes two. In addition, there are longer holidays at Christmas, Easter and in the summer.

Important: Exact term dates are set individually by each school and published at the end of the academic year for the year ahead. They can vary slightly by school and region. For shorter stays (e.g. one or two terms) it’s worth checking the exact dates carefully – some schools even start in August.

V
Visa

Whether a visa is required depends on how long your child will be attending school in the United Kingdom: no visa is required for stays of one or one and a half terms (i.e. less than 180 days). In addition to a valid passport, an electronic travel authorisation (see ETA) is required for entry. Important: the school must confirm the stay in writing.

For stays longer than six months, pupils between the ages of 4 and 17 need a Child Student Visa.

The school will issue an official document called a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) in advance. The visa fee is £524 for applications made outside the UK.

In addition, there is an Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), a contribution towards the healthcare of foreign students. This amounts to £776 per year plus £388 in the first year, even if your child has private health insurance. (as of September 2025)

W
Weather Talk

Talking about the weather is a true national sport in Britain. Phrases like “Chilly today, isn’t it?” are part of everyday politeness – whether it’s raining, drizzling or just another grey day.

30 Years experience in the UK boarding school placements

For over 30 years, we have been guiding families in choosing the right British boarding school. This makes us one of the first and only agencies to specialise exclusively in this field. Our experience makes all the difference. Find out why that matters here.

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