Boarding

Our senior boarding houses are small and friendly, and just over a third of our students board. Boarders have easy access to the library, the dining hall, the Sixth Form centre, and IT and recreational facilities.

They also enjoy socialising together in the common rooms, mixing freely and developing lifelong friendships. Boys and girls live in separate areas of the school, and each have resident staff members overseeing their boarding environment. All Sixth Form boarders live in either double or single rooms.

An important part of the care of a supportive family is that students can approach residential staff at any time; several staff live within the boarding houses with their families and there is always a friendly face nearby. Should any boarder feel uncertain about something, would like a little advice about a matter important to them, or would just like to chat, they will always find someone to talk to who understands.

Boarding FAQs

Do all pupils have their own room?

Single rooms are usually reserved for Upper Sixth pupils. All other sixth form boarders stay in double or single rooms.

Are pupils allowed to go into Canterbury?

Yes, the city centre is just a short walk or bus ride away. Sixth Formers can explore independently at designated times. The Boarders’ Daily Routine outlines permissions for leaving the school.

What meal and food options will I have as a Sixth Form boarder?

All boarding fees include breakfast, lunch and evening meals with nutritious choices every day. The menus offer a range of options — from traditional favourites to international dishes — and the team can cater for dietary needs like vegetarian, medical or cultural requirements.

How does independent study work in Sixth Form boarding?

In the Sixth Form, you’ll have your own study routine, which means supervised prep earlier on then more independent study in your room, helping you prepare for exams and university life.

What activities are available outside class and on weekends?

There’s a full weekend activities programme that may include enrichment sessions, trips to London, theatre visits, outdoor adventures and more. This gives you fun ways to relax and grow alongside your studies.

How is pastoral support provided to Sixth Form boarders?

Resident house staff live in the boarding houses and are available to help with anything from study support to wellbeing or just a chat — the aim is to make boarding a supported and positive part of your Sixth Form experience.

What tech and internet access do boarders have?

You’ll get Wi-Fi in the boarding houses and access to school IT facilities. Laptops are allowed (and the school recommends insuring them), and you also receive a school email account to support academic work. St Edmund’s School

Can I personalise my room?

Yes — boarders are encouraged to personalise their rooms with posters, photos or other items to make it feel like your own space while you’re at school.

What’s the social life like?

There’s a friendly common room atmosphere where you can relax and bond with other Sixth Form boarders — people socialise naturally after study and at weekends.

Boarding at St Edmund’s is brilliant because there’s always a great atmosphere and plenty to get involved in. Living in Canterbury with your friends makes school life really enjoyable, and the boarding house quickly starts to feel like home.

Boarding Pupil