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Boarding at Westonbirt

Boarding at Westonbirt is about becoming part of a community. It’s the friendships made over dinner, the conversations that continue long after lessons have finished, the encouragement of housemates, and the confidence that comes from learning to do things for yourself. 

Our boarders come from more than 25 nationalities, living and learning alongside one another in a community that is wonderfully diverse, yet closely connected. Every pupil brings their own experiences, contributing to a place where everyone belongs. 

 

 

Our boarding community

Boarding sits at the heart of the Westonbirt community. It gives pupils the opportunity to live alongside their friends, build meaningful relationships and experience the sense of belonging that comes from being part of something bigger than themselves. Our boarding environment is built on warmth, trust and mutual respect, with pupils encouraged to become increasingly independent, knowing that support is always there when they need it.

House staff take the time to know each pupil as an individual, celebrating their strengths, listening when it matters, and helping them navigate the challenges that come with growing up. For our younger boarders, this might mean finding their feet and discovering the confidence to try something new; for older pupils, it means developing the resilience and self-awareness that will prepare them for life beyond Westonbirt. Whether boarding every night or joining us for occasional stays, pupils become part of a community where friendships flourish and everyone has a role to play.

Boarding to suit your family 

Every family is different, which is why Westonbirt offers a range of boarding options designed to fit around your child’s needs and busy family life. 

Full boarding: for pupils who want to make boarding a central part of their Westonbirt experience, with the house community as their home throughout the week and at weekends. 

Weekly boarding: a flexible option for pupils who enjoy the benefits of boarding during the school week before returning home at the weekend. 

Flexi boarding: for families looking for greater flexibility, with pupils able to board on selected nights according to their individual needs. 

Ad hoc boarding: a convenient option for occasional stays, giving pupils the opportunity to experience boarding life when it works for you and your family. 

Sedgwick House 

Home to pupils in Years 7 to 9, Sedgwick House is Westonbirt’s junior boarding house, a welcoming and supportive environment where younger pupils can grow in confidence and independence whilst building friendships that will last a lifetime. Opened in 2024, Sedgwick offers a fresh, modern boarding experience, with brand new bedrooms and a dedicated common room providing plenty of space to relax, socialise and unwind together.

Its location next to the Sports Centre and swimming pool means there is always the opportunity to make the most of Westonbirt’s facilities, including those all-important late-night swims! At the heart of Sedgwick is Houseparent Sally Gould, who brings more than 30 years’ experience as a houseparent at Westonbirt, alongside the Sedgwick house mascot, Strumble the spaniel. Sally’s deep understanding of boarding life creates a home where pupils feel known and supported to become increasingly independent.

Beaufort House

Home to pupils in Years 10 and 11, Beaufort House offers a greater sense of independence as pupils move towards the next stage of their education. With university-style accommodation, each pupil has their own bedroom, alongside shared bathrooms and common spaces where housemates can relax and spend time together. 

This balance of personal space and community makes Beaufort the perfect environment for pupils to develop the confidence and responsibility they will need as they look ahead to Sixth Form and life beyond Westonbirt. Houseparent Andy Hamilton brings a wealth of experience to Beaufort, having worked as a houseparent across both the independent and state sectors. A much-loved member of the PE team, he provides the support and encouragement pupils need alongside the wider boarding team. 

Holford House

Our co-educational Sixth Form boarding house, Holford offers pupils the space, independence and support to make the most of their final years at Westonbirt. Set within nine acres of orchards and gardens on the outskirts of Tetbury, just a mile from the main school, Holford provides a peaceful environment with more than 30 en-suite bedrooms, a spacious common room and dining room — giving pupils the privacy of their own space alongside the community of house life.

Pupils are encouraged to take greater responsibility for themselves and their routines, developing the confidence and practical skills that will prepare them for university, further study and professional life. Houseparent Mrs Sara Nash and Deputy Head of Pastoral Myles Nash provide warm, supportive guidance while giving pupils the freedom to grow into the next chapter of their lives, and a regular shuttle bus connects Holford with Westonbirt, offering the best of both worlds.

What our Boarders Say: Azriel, Year 11

What our Boarders Say: Azriel, Year 11 :

“Being a student at Westonbirt makes me feel safe and welcomed, no matter what kind of day I’m having. The school has exceeded my expectations, and I always look back on my first day with gratitude.. Boarding is a fantastic experience – I highly recommend the boarding experience as it’s been one of the best parts of my time at Westonbirt“

What our Boarders Say: Lorenzo, Year 13

What our Boarders Say: Lorenzo, Year 13 :

“Living now in the Year 13 boarding house, I love how close we are to Tetbury, which makes it easy to pop into town. I enjoy playing cards and relaxing in the common room with friends. What I like most about boarding is the independence, it’s nice to be away from home, and I’ve learned a lot, especially improving my English since last year.“

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