Boarding
What makes boarding at Aysgarth special? Boarding flourishes when three essential ingredients come together: space, friendships, and time. At Aysgarth, pupils have the freedom to roam, the companionship of a close-knit community, and the time to enjoy a truly enriched childhood. |
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How do you make boarding feel like a home from home?Our experienced boarding team ensures pupils feel safe, supported and settled. Familiar routines, friendly faces, and plenty of personal touches—like room mascots and corridor games—help make boarding life feel like family life. |
Is modern boarding very different from what parents might remember?Completely. Today’s boarding is warm, nurturing, and full of adventure. Pupils enjoy a balance of structure and freedom, with access to exceptional facilities and a staff-to-child ratio of 1:5. One pupil summed it up as “one massive sleepover with your best mates”—we couldn’t agree more. |
Does your location support successful boarding?Absolutely. Our rural setting offers space to run, climb, and explore. Outdoor play is part of daily life here—from Capture the Flag to den-building—fostering independence, imagination, and friendship.It’s a childhood as it should be—away from screens, out in the fresh air, and packed with opportunities to grow in confidence and independence. Boarding here feels like an adventure, not a separation from home. |
Do boarders develop more extracurricular interests?Yes—with over 60 weekly evening activities, there’s something for every child. From cello to climbing, pupils gain confidence through new experiences and discover new passions. Crucially, we give them the time to explore it all—structured prep, exciting clubs, and free play are all part of the rhythm of life here. It’s not just about what they do, but how they learn to balance it—a life skill in itself. |
What about homesickness?It’s perfectly normal, and we’re here to help. We keep pupils busy and connected, with support from friends, staff—and even our 17 much-loved school dogs! Parents are kept closely informed, and a tailored approach ensures each child is gently encouraged to thrive. |
In their words – what do Aysgarth boarders say?“It’s like one big sleepover—you're always with your friends.” “We look after each other better than our own siblings!” “Boarding has helped me try new things—hockey, music, even the cello!” “It’s fun, it’s busy, and you’re never bored!” |