The Boarding Adventure

Introducing Chris Lee, Head of Boarding

It’s a real privilege to care for the children while they’re away from home. At The Elms, our rural setting and working farm help create a boarding experience that’s rich, grounded, and full of joy. As staff, we work hard to preserve the innocence and wonder of childhood, while gently guiding pupils towards greater independence and confidence. Watching them flourish — building friendships, growing in character, and enjoying the freedom to explore and play — is one of the most rewarding parts of life here. Boarding at The Elms is an adventure not a chore.

Home From Home

At the heart of The Elms community lies our warm, welcoming boarding house, where children can feel truly at home, form lasting friendships, and take full advantage of the school’s exceptional setting. In addition to our full boarders, many pupils opt for flexi-boarding, meaning it’s not uncommon to have upwards of 50 boarders on any given evening. Our dedicated boarding team play a vital role in ensuring each child’s physical and emotional well-being, while also infusing a sense of fun and togetherness into evenings and weekends. Whether it’s participating in boarders-only clubs after supper or enjoying the beautiful school grounds, wading through the stream and building dams, children are encouraged to explore, relax, and connect with others. Boarders particularly enjoy getting involved with the school farm—bringing in the ponies, collecting eggs, or feeding the animals.

Weekend Fun

Weekends are a time to unwind after a busy week and Saturday of clubs or lessons and sports, with opportunities to relax and spend quality time with friends. Sunday mornings begin with a leisurely brunch, followed by organised activities such as skating, surfing, riding, swimming, mountain biking, laser-tag, or cinema trips. Our boarders also take part in local agricultural shows and equestrian events, showcasing their skills and passion.

Boarding For All

At The Elms, we offer a flexible approach to boarding that suits the needs of each family. Pupils can choose from full boarding, part-time boarding, flexible or occasional options, with some children starting with just one or two nights a week.

Full Boarding

Boarders enjoy a family-feel environment with the prefect balance between activity and relaxation.

Part-Time Boarding

Pre-booked part-time boarding packages for 1-3 nights are available at a reduced nightly rate – a great option for many families.

Flexi & Occasional Boarding

Occasional boarding provides a flexible option for families, allowing children to enjoy the fun and comfort of boarding whenever it suits.

We Welcome Military Families

The Elms School is proud of its long tradition of supporting military families. For those eligible to claim CEA, we offer top-up assistance so that families only pay 10% of the fees. For serving families who do not qualify for CEA, we offer a 10% reduction on fees, with further support available through our means-tested bursary scheme. Within our school community we have numerous staff and families with military connections, creating an understanding of service life. We provide a supportive boarding environment where service families’ children can flourish.

“A children’s paradise – like something out of Enid Blyton.”

Delighted ParentDelighted Parent

“It’s just the best school on the planet!”

Delighted ParentDelighted parent

“We could not be more thrilled with the way that our children have developed at The Elms. They have enjoyed these past few years as full boarders immensely and have thrived in the family environment.”

Delighted ParentDelighted Parent

“The pastoral care has been second to none and they have formed lifelong friendships with their peers. They have had five great years of happiness and outdoor fun, and have still emerged with excellent results.”

Delighted ParentDelighted Parent

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Find out more about the school and our ethos. It will give you an initial flavour of the school before you visit.

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Come to an Open Morning

Join us for one of our termly Open Mornings to gain an insight into the type of education, facilities, care and provision that The Elms has to offer.

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Enquire and Visit

The best way to really experience our special ethos and atmosphere is to visit us. Come and see the school in action and meet the Headmaster.

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