
The Boarding Schools' Association (BSA) is the largest association of boarding schools in the world, representing hundreds of independent and state boarding schools across the UK and overseas. Its core mission is to promote and support excellence in boarding education. The BSA provides professional development and training for school staff, offers guidance on best practices in pastoral care and safeguarding, and serves as the collective voice for the boarding sector when liaising with government and inspection bodies. It champions the benefits of a boarding education and supports member schools in delivering the highest standards.
Member Schools (49)

Eastbourne College is a co-educational independent school for boarding and day pupils aged 13-18, affiliated with the Church of England. Situated in Eastbourne, East Sussex, on England's south coast, its location is between the beach and the South Downs National Park. The school claims to focus on equipping pupils to lead happy, fulfilled lives, underpinned by values such as pursuit of excellence, integrity, participation, and kindness. It has undergone significant development, including a £33 million investment in facilities.

Seaford College is an independent co-educational boarding and day school situated at Lavington Park, south of Petworth, West Sussex, England. The campus is set within over 450 acres of parkland in the South Downs, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Founded in 1884, the school caters for students aged 4 to 18 across its Prep, Senior, and Sixth Form. Seaford College, affiliated with the Church of England, claims to focus on fostering individual potential, encouraging academic achievement, and promoting participation in cultural, social, and sporting activities.

Dorset House School is a co-educational preparatory school situated near Pulborough, West Sussex, within the South Downs National Park. Established in 1784, it is noted as one of the country's oldest prep schools. Located on a 16-acre site, the school offers day and optional flexi/weekly boarding for pupils aged 4-13. The school claims to provide a "greenhouse not a hothouse" environment, aiming to inspire academic learning and foster resilience. A 2018 ISI Inspection found "excellent" academic and personal development. From September 2025, it joined the Lancing College family of schools.

Sevenoaks School is a co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 11 to 18, situated in Sevenoaks, Kent. Established in 1432, it is one of England's oldest secular school foundations. The school occupies a 100-acre campus on the edge of the town, bordering Knole Park, featuring green, spacious grounds and a blend of historic and modern architecture. The school claims to focus on a progressive, academic, and global outlook, with its Sixth Form students pursuing the International Baccalaureate Diploma. Its ethos encourages critical thinking and a love of learning.

Westbourne House School is an independent co-educational day and boarding school situated in 100 acres of parkland near Chichester, West Sussex. It caters to pupils aged 2.5 to 13 years. The school claims to focus on academic excellence and developing the whole child, fostering kindness, respect, and perseverance through a broad range of experiences. It has been awarded the Alice Rose Award and the High Performance Learning (HPL) World Class School Award.

The Worthgate School is an independent, co-educational day and boarding school situated in a leafy corner of historic Canterbury, Kent. Established in 1952, the school caters primarily to international students aged 13-19. It claims to focus on inspiring and empowering students for academic and personal success, offering a range of pre-university qualifications including A-Levels, the International Baccalaureate, and GCSEs. The school provides a modern campus within walking distance of the city's historic centre.

Ashford School is a co-educational independent day and boarding school situated across two campuses in Ashford, Kent. It caters to students aged 3 months to 18 years. The school claims to focus on "Inspiring Minds" and an educational philosophy that prioritizes student well-being as a foundation for success. It is affiliated with the United Church Schools Trust and is a member of the Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference (HMC). The school is located near Ashford International station, offering strong transport links.

Situated in Hertford Heath, Hertfordshire, Haileybury is a co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 11-18. Established in 1862, the school occupies an extensive 500-acre campus of countryside, woodland, and heathland, originally the site of the East India College. Haileybury claims to focus on academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, and an all-round education, fostering personal growth and global citizenship. The school offers GCSEs, A-Levels, and the International Baccalaureate Diploma. It was judged 'Excellent in all areas' in its 2022 ISI Inspection Report.

St Edmund's School Canterbury is a co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 2-18. Situated on a 62-acre semi-rural site in Canterbury, Kent, the school was established in 1749. It educates the Choristers of Canterbury Cathedral. The school claims to focus on fostering a love of learning, intellectual agility, and creativity within a supportive and inclusive environment. Its grounds include parkland, forestry, and modern facilities, supporting a broad co-curricular programme.

Beechwood is a co-educational independent day and boarding school in Tunbridge Wells, Kent. Situated on a 23-acre campus, the school educates pupils from Pre-School to Sixth Form. It was founded in 1915 by the Sisters of the Society of the Sacred Heart and now operates as a co-educational school for children of all faiths.

The New Beacon is an independent preparatory school for boys aged 4-13, with a co-educational nursery, situated in Sevenoaks, Kent. The school occupies 22 acres of grounds, featuring woodlands and extensive sports facilities. It has been on its current site since 1900, having been founded in 1863. The New Beacon claims its ethos focuses on respect, individuality, and aspiration, aiming to combine academic achievement with personalized pastoral care. The school merged with Tonbridge School in 2021.

Battle Abbey School is an independent, co-educational day and boarding school situated in Battle, East Sussex. The Senior School occupies part of the historic Battle Abbey complex, overlooking the 1066 battlefield. The Prep and Nursery schools are located in Bexhill-on-Sea with spacious grounds. The school enrolls students from three months to eighteen years old. It claims to focus on exceptional pastoral care, fostering an inclusive atmosphere, and promoting values of kindness, mutual respect, and academic success for its students.

Sutton Valence School is a co-educational day and boarding school, situated across two rural sites in the Kent countryside, near Maidstone. Founded in 1576 by William Lambe, the school caters to pupils from ages two to 18. The school claims to focus on community values, academic achievement, and extensive enrichment opportunities. It aims to foster confident, tolerant, and open-minded individuals with Christian values.

Brighton College Prep Handcross is an independent co-educational preparatory school for pupils aged 2 to 13, offering day, weekly, and full boarding options from age 8. Situated in Handcross, West Sussex, the school is set within 52 acres of parkland and countryside. The school claims to focus on kindness, mutual respect, and fostering a love of learning, operating under the motto "Be Trewe". It features facilities such as playing fields, a golf course, and an indoor swimming pool. The school is part of the Brighton College Family of Schools.

Christ's Hospital is an independent co-educational boarding and day school for students aged 11-18, situated on a 1,200-acre estate south of Horsham, West Sussex. Established in 1552, the school operates under a royal charter and is known for its charitable foundation. It claims to challenge inequality by providing a nurturing education to young people from diverse backgrounds, with a majority of students receiving means-tested bursaries. The curriculum aims to combine academic ambition with a focus on broader opportunities in sports, music, art, and drama.

Windlesham House School is an independent day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 4 to 13. Situated in Pulborough, West Sussex, on the South Downs, the school is set within a 70-acre country estate. Founded in 1837, it was the first boys' preparatory school in the UK and became co-educational in 1967. The school claims to focus on providing a stimulating and nurturing environment for confident, independent learners, and aims for educational excellence. It offers a broad co-curricular programme across its extensive grounds, which include sports pitches, a 9-hole golf course, and a 25-meter swimming pool. The school also has a policy of no school uniform.

Bede's Senior School is a co-educational independent day and boarding school situated in the rural village of Upper Dicker, East Sussex. The school's campus is set within approximately 100-140 acres of the Sussex countryside. It caters to pupils aged 13 to 18. The school claims to focus on a holistic philosophy, aiming to discover and develop individual talents by prioritizing academic, co-curricular, and pastoral aspects of student life. It describes itself as a modern and inclusive institution.

Kent College Pembury is an independent day and boarding school situated in 75 acres of countryside near Pembury, Kent, close to Royal Tunbridge Wells. The school, part of the Methodist Independent Schools Trust, claims to focus on an ethos of kindness, community, and inclusive nurturing, upholding Christian values while welcoming all faiths. It provides education from Nursery to Year 6 as co-educational, with the Senior School transitioning to fully co-educational from 2026. Kent College was awarded an 'Excellent' rating for Academic Achievement and Personal Development by the ISI in 2023.

Hurstpierpoint College is a co-educational day and boarding independent school located just north of the village of Hurstpierpoint, West Sussex. Situated in the Sussex countryside, the College occupies a 140-acre campus. Founded in 1849 by Canon Nathaniel Woodard, the school is part of the Woodard Corporation. The school claims to focus on academic excellence and spiritual nurture, underpinned by a Christian ethos that welcomes all faiths. It provides education for pupils aged 4 to 18.

Cobham Hall is an independent co-educational day and boarding school situated in Cobham, Kent, for pupils aged 11 to 19. The school is housed in a historic Grade I listed 16th-century manor house, set within 150 acres of Grade II-listed parkland. The school claims to nurture potential through the Round Square IDEALS, focusing on internationalism, democracy, environmentalism, adventure, leadership, and service. Its motto states, "There's more in you than you think."

St Ronan's is a co-educational Nursery, Pre-Prep, and Prep School located in Hawkhurst, Kent, catering to children aged 2 to 13 years. Situated within the 250-acre Tongswood estate, the school is set around a Victorian mansion and features extensive woodland and fields. The school offers day and flexi-boarding options. St Ronan's claims to focus on providing an all-round education and fostering values such as curiosity, imagination, and co-operation. Its motto is "Floreat Saint Ronan's".

Earlscliffe is a co-educational independent sixth form college and boarding school situated in Folkestone on the Kent coast. The school caters to students aged 15-19 and claims to offer a highly personalised education for international students, with a focus on university preparation. Its campus comprises renovated Victorian and Edwardian buildings within the town. The school emphasizes a rigorous academic platform and character development. It is also an associated UNESCO school.

Queenswood is an independent day and boarding school for girls aged 11-18, situated in Hertfordshire, near Hatfield, within a 120-acre parkland estate. The school has a Christian foundation and claims to focus on valuing each individual, promoting international understanding, and fostering a love of learning. It offers a broad curriculum alongside extensive co-curricular activities, utilizing facilities that include a 25-meter swimming pool and 27 tennis courts. Queenswood reports an international community, with approximately 20% of its pupils from overseas.

Bede's Prep is a co-educational day and boarding school located in Eastbourne, East Sussex, nestled on the edge of the South Downs. The school serves pupils from infancy to 13 years old. It claims to focus on promoting learning, personal growth, and development, fostering a vibrant learning experience through a 'festival of opportunities'. The school's core values reportedly include compassion, courage, conscientiousness, and curiosity, aiming to provide an all-round education.

Mayfield School is an independent Catholic boarding and day school for girls aged 11 to 18, situated in the village of Mayfield, East Sussex. Established in 1872, the school is set within 70-75 acres of Sussex countryside. The school's ethos reflects its Catholic heritage and Cornelian values, claiming to focus on nurturing integrity, generosity, and respect within an inclusive community. Facilities include a 14th-century chapel, a riding arena, an indoor swimming pool, and dedicated art and science spaces.

St Lawrence College is a co-educational independent day and boarding school located in Ramsgate, Kent, on an 80-acre campus. The school enrolls pupils aged 3 to 18. Established in 1879, it maintains a strong Christian ethos, which underpins its pastoral care and focus on individual nurturing. The campus combines traditional 19th-century buildings with modern facilities, situated near the Kent coast. The school claims to focus on academic excellence, strong pastoral care, and a wide range of extracurricular activities. It has been recognized as a World Class High Performance Learning School.

Benenden School, founded in 1923, is an all-girls boarding school situated in 250 acres of parkland in Kent, a rural setting. It accommodates approximately 550-560 girls aged 11-18, with a limited number of day places. The school claims to focus on a 'Complete Education', aiming to shape future generations of successful, visionary women, and fostering values such as confidence, compassion, courage, and courtesy.

Claremont Prep, part of the wider Claremont School, is a co-educational day and boarding preparatory school situated in St Leonards-on-Sea, East Sussex. The school occupies 100 acres of grounds and woodland. Catering to pupils from age 1, the school claims to focus on academic excellence, personal growth, and community involvement, fostering a "get-stuck-in" ethos. Founded in 1925, it was rated Outstanding in a past Ofsted report and is a member of the International Schools Partnership.

St Andrew's Prep is an independent day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 9 months to 13 years, founded in 1877. Situated in Eastbourne, East Sussex, the school is located between the South Downs and the sea, set within twelve acres of landscaped grounds and sports fields, with the beach a five-minute walk away. The school claims to focus on a holistic education that balances academic rigour with character development, and aims to foster kindness, honesty, and excellence. It offers a broad curriculum, including a "Bridge Curriculum" for Years 7 and 8 to prepare pupils for senior schools.

Holmewood House is a co-educational preparatory school for children aged 3 to 13, situated in 32 acres of parkland near Tunbridge Wells, Kent. The school claims to focus on an ethos of kindness, self-belief, and aspiration. It provides a broad education with a wide range of extracurricular activities, aiming to combine academic learning with personal development. The school’s facilities and curriculum are designed to support a well-rounded and nurturing environment for its pupils.

Whitgift School is an independent day and boarding school for boys aged 10-18, situated on a 45-acre parkland site in South Croydon, Greater London. Founded in 1596 by Archbishop John Whitgift, its motto is "Vincit qui patitur" (He who perseveres, conquers). The school claims to focus on academic achievement, personal development, and co-curricular involvement, aiming to foster mutual respect and self-esteem. The extensive grounds feature landscaped gardens, ponds, and an aviary. Full, weekly, and flexi-boarding options are available.

The Dulwich School Cranbrook is a co-educational independent day and boarding school situated in the rural district of the Weald, near Cranbrook, Kent. The school occupies a 50-acre estate and caters to children aged 2 to 16 years. With a Church of England religious affiliation, it claims to focus on inspiring and developing confident, capable, and well-rounded young people by understanding each child as an individual. The curriculum offers a broad education with a strong academic focus, complemented by sporting, musical, and drama activities. The Senior School expanded to include Years 9, 10, and 11 in September 2023.

Frewen College is an independent, co-educational day and boarding school situated in Northiam, Rye, East Sussex. The school caters to students aged 7-19 with Specific Learning Difficulties, including dyslexia, dyspraxia, and dyscalculia. It is set within the grounds of a Grade I listed Jacobean mansion, encompassing 60 acres of parkland and gardens, with additional access to 100 acres of ancient deer park. The school claims to focus on individualized learning, developing strengths, and building self-confidence. Small class sizes are a feature of its educational approach.

Cottesmore School is a co-educational boarding preparatory school, founded in 1894. Situated in Pease Pottage, West Sussex, its campus spans 140 acres of countryside and includes a Grade II-listed Victorian building. The school claims to focus on a Christian and family ethos, aiming to provide an all-round education encompassing academics, sports, and creative arts. It aims to develop character and foster a nurturing environment. Cottesmore School has been noted in "The Spear's Index 2024" as one of the world's 100 leading private schools and one of the top 15 UK prep schools.

Roedean is an independent day and boarding school for girls aged 11 to 18. Situated on a clifftop site on the outskirts of Brighton, the school overlooks the English Channel and the Brighton Marina. The school aims to provide a holistic education that balances academic achievement with the development of character and talents. The main building, designed by Sir John Simpson, is Grade II listed. The school draws pupils from the local area, London, and internationally.

Situated in Chichester, West Sussex, adjacent to the Chichester Cathedral precinct, The Prebendal School is a co-educational preparatory day and boarding school for pupils aged 3 to 13. Founded in 1497, it is the oldest school in Sussex and educates the Chichester Cathedral choristers. The school claims to focus on nurturing confident and kind young people through a holistic approach, fostering a love of learning and curiosity. It was awarded 'Excellent in all areas' by its ISI inspection in November 2022.

Brambletye School is a co-educational day and boarding preparatory school for children aged 2.5 to 13. Situated in East Grinstead, West Sussex, the school is set within 140 acres of parkland, housed in a Victorian building overlooking Ashdown Forest. The school's ethos, "Work Hard, Play Hard & Be Kind," aims to cultivate curiosity, perseverance, and kindness. It provides extensive facilities for academic, sporting, and creative arts programs, supporting a broad education in a rural setting.

Wellesley Haddon Dene is an independent preparatory day school for co-educational pupils aged 2 to 11. Situated in the coastal town of Broadstairs, Kent, the school occupies grounds including a historic building dating to 1897-1898. The school claims to be family-orientated, focusing on values such as kindness, respect, courage, resilience, and teamwork. It was formed in 2022 through the merger of Haddon Dene School and Wellesley House School, which was established in 1866. Wellesley Haddon Dene has been awarded the Eco School and Green School Award for 2024.

Tonbridge School is an independent boarding and day school for boys aged 13-18, founded in 1553 by Sir Andrew Judde. Situated on an extensive 150-acre site in Tonbridge, Kent, the school is located approximately 40 minutes from London. The school claims to focus on developing "fine minds and good hearts" by fostering connections between ideas, interests, and people, embodied by its ethos "Only Connect." Its campus integrates historical architecture with modern facilities, supporting a wide range of academic and co-curricular activities. A strong house system is central to its pastoral care.

Guildhouse School is an independent international day and boarding school situated in Bloomsbury Square, Central London. Occupying three period buildings, the school provides an urban campus environment. It claims to focus on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills, preparing students for university success. The school educates a diverse international cohort and is notable for housing the only Bloomberg Business Lab in a European high school.

Farlington School is an independent day and boarding school located in Horsham, West Sussex. Established in 1896, it became fully co-educational in September 2021, catering to pupils aged 6 months to 18 years. Situated within 33 acres of parkland, the school offers a rural setting. Farlington School claims to focus on its core values of Individuality, Opportunity, and Community, with a mission to encourage pupils to "Live life to the full" (Vive ut vivas). It is affiliated with the Bellevue Education group. Pastoral care and wellbeing are stated as central to its educational approach.

Worth School is a co-educational Catholic boarding and day school for pupils aged 11 to 18. Situated in 500 acres of Sussex countryside near Worth, within Worth Abbey, it operates with a Benedictine ethos. The school claims to focus on fostering self-awareness, integrity, and a sense of responsibility through an "education with heart and soul". It offers both A Levels and the IB Diploma. In October 2024, Worth School was named Boarding School of the Year at the Independent Schools of the Year awards.

Northbourne Park is a co-educational day and boarding preparatory school, including a Nursery and Pre-Prep, for children aged 2-14 years. Situated in Betteshanger, Deal, Kent, the school occupies over 100 acres of rural parkland and woodland. The school claims to cultivate a nurturing environment with well-being at its core, fostering ambitious, creative, and free-thinking learners. It features a strong outdoor education programme, encouraging exploration and engagement with its natural surroundings. A unique Section Française Bilingue is also offered.

King's School Rochester is a co-educational independent day and boarding school situated in Rochester, Kent. The school is nestled within the Cathedral Precinct, near Rochester Cathedral and Rochester Castle, offering views over the River Medway. Founded in 604 AD, it claims to be the second oldest continuously operating school in the world and the oldest cathedral choir school. Serving pupils aged 3 to 18, it is a Church of England foundation. The school claims to focus on a holistic education, underpinned by values of happiness, endeavour, aspiration, roundedness, and teamwork.

Dover College is an independent co-educational day and boarding school, established in 1871 in Dover, Kent. Situated within the grounds of a 12th-century Benedictine Priory, the school incorporates historic medieval buildings, including the Refectory. It serves pupils aged 3-18. The school claims to focus on academic excellence through personalized learning, with an ethos of 'Personal Best'. It maintains a Christian ethos while welcoming pupils of all faiths and is a member of the Round Square network.

Rochester Independent College is an Independent Schools Council accredited co-educational day and boarding school located in Rochester, Kent. Established in 1984, the college's urban campus features 14 listed buildings within a conservation area, linked by award-winning wildlife gardens. The school claims to focus on academic achievement and creativity, promoting critical and independent thinking. Its stated ethos is informal and flexible, with an average class size of eight. It caters to students aged 11 to 19.

Farringtons School is a co-educational independent day and boarding school situated in Chislehurst, Kent, within 25 acres of parkland. Catering to pupils aged 3-18, the school was established in 1908. Its ethos, underpinned by Christian values, claims to focus on the holistic development of each child, fostering intellectual, physical, moral, and spiritual growth. The school aims to provide a wide variety of extracurricular opportunities within a nurturing environment.

Buckswood School is a co-educational private boarding and day school situated in Guestling, East Sussex. The school occupies Broomham Hall, a 16th-century manor house set within 43 acres of rural grounds. It claims to follow a "12 Pillars" educational philosophy, aiming to foster academic excellence, character development, leadership, and global citizenship, with its motto being 'We Prepare for Life'. Facilities on its extensive campus include riding stables, a swimming pool, various sports pitches, a woodland activity centre, and a vineyard.

Situated in the West Sussex countryside, near Haywards Heath, Ardingly College is a co-educational boarding and day school established in 1858. The college occupies a 240-acre campus with woodland and a lakeside environment. The school claims to focus on academic rigour, critical thinking, and preparing students to be "World Ready". Its ethos is guided by values such as engagement, compassion, resilience, and collaboration. Ardingly College offers A-levels, the IB Diploma, and BTECs.