Nestled in the Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and Northamptonshire borders, between Brackley and Buckingham, Beachborough School offers a truly flexible, child-centred boarding experience for children from Year 3 and above.
Kites, our boarding house, is dedicated to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable transition for junior boarders through a range of innovative initiatives designed to provide comfort, security, and independence.
Starting boarding can feel like a big step, so we provide a carefully designed pre-arrival programme to ensure a seamless transition. Each child receives a personalised boarding guide tailored to their needs, alongside a tour of Kites to familiarise them with their new environment. Our Buddy System pairs new boarders with older, experienced pupils who act as friendly mentors, helping them navigate the boarding experience with confidence and ease.
The first few weeks of boarding are crucial, and we ensure a warm, welcoming experience through engaging activities. Team-building events, such as scavenger hunts and icebreaker games, help junior boarders build friendships and develop a sense of belonging. Our gentle bedtime routines, featuring bedtime stories and relaxation techniques, provide a comforting close to each day. Houseparent’s schedule one-to-one check-ins to ensure each child is settling in happily, and small home comforts—like our popular ‘home comfort’ toasties before bed—help ease the transition from home to boarding life.
Year 3 boarder Oliver said of his experience, “I have definitely learned how to sleep better since I have been boarding and I love that we are allowed to go into the computing and robotics room with Mrs Blithe and use the computers.”
Our focus on well-being continues throughout the year. The Boarding Mentor Scheme trains older boarders to provide emotional and practical support for younger pupils. Personalised room spaces are encouraged, allowing each boarder to bring their own touches of home with photos, posters, and soft toys, fostering a sense of ownership and comfort in their environment.
We believe in empowering our boarders with life skills that serve them well beyond school. Our Life Skills Workshops introduce essential lessons such as laundry, personal organisation, and self-care. Junior boarders are encouraged to take on small responsibilities, from clearing after meals to serving as dorm reps, helping to develop a sense of accountability and self-reliance.
A rich programme of evening clubs and activities ensures that there is always something to look forward to. Options include crafts, board games, mini sports leagues, and Lego building. Friday Theme Nights, such as ‘Harry Potter Night,’ ‘Spy Games,’ and ‘I’m a Boarder, Get Me Out of Here,’ provide exciting, immersive experiences that create lasting memories. Outdoor adventures, including treasure hunts, campfires, and nature walks, help develop teamwork and a love of the outdoors.
We understand that boarding is a partnership between school and home. Our Boarding Open House invites parents to visit and see their children thriving in boarding life. A termly boarding newsletter keeps families informed with updates, photos, and pupil contributions, strengthening the connection between home and school.
Once Year 3 parent said, “The flexible approach to boarding that Beachborough offers is exceptional from a parents point of view. Combine that with what is clearly a very nurturing environment and you have a winning combination for both parent and child.”
Our commitment to boarders’ well-being extends to regularly assessing their experience. Well-being surveys provide anonymous feedback, helping us continually refine our support systems. The Pupil Voice Boarding Council ensures that junior boarders have a say in shaping their experience. Regular review meetings with Houseparents, and academic staff ensure a smooth and supportive transition for every child.
A key part of our pastoral care team is Arnie, our Norfolk Terrier and qualified pet therapy dog. Since joining the boarding house in 2018, Arnie has provided invaluable companionship, offering a comforting presence for children who may be experiencing challenging times. His ability to remain calm amidst the hustle and bustle of boarding life has made him a beloved member of our community, fostering a sense of reassurance and joy among our junior boarders.
At Kites, boarding is more than just a place to stay—it’s a nurturing home where children feel safe, supported, and inspired. Our holistic approach ensures that every junior boarder not only adjusts smoothly but flourishes in a warm, vibrant, and engaging community.
If you would like to learn more about boarding at Beachborough Prep, please see our website here.
To book a tour of our Kites boarding house, please email admissions@beachborough.com
