Catholic Independent Diamond Model Boarding (9-19) & Day (1-19) School
Boarding Handbook London Linked
A Warm Welcome New Hall is one of the UK’s oldest and largest independent Catholic schools, offering a holistic education that enables students to reach their full potential. As a Catholic boarding and day school, we welcome students from all faiths and none, building a Christian community that has at its heart prayer and service to others. Educating students from Nursery age through to Sixth Form (ages 1 to 19), academic excellence is achieved in surroundings where relationships are based on care, trust and respect. Our School is unusually vibrant and forward thinking, meeting the changing needs of young people and their families in the modern age. We are proud of our rich heritage and the tradition of academic excellence combined with outstanding pastoral care. New Hall is a place where each individual is known and affirmed in his or her unique identity. In a happy and caring environment and with high expectations of good conduct and self-discipline, students grow in maturity and confidence and make life-long friends. I look forward to welcoming you to New Hall.
Mrs Katherine Jeffrey Principal
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Why Choose Boarding at New Hall? 1. A Home-from-Home
Our beautiful boarding houses offer a warm, welcoming environment with outstanding facilities. Students can choose from a range of accommodation options, including shared, single, and en-suite rooms, ensuring comfort, independence, and a true home-from-home experience.
2. Friendships, Community and Belonging
Boarding life at New Hall is carefully designed to offer an exceptional living experience, where every student feels supported and valued. Our boarding houses are far more than places to stay — they are vibrant communities where lifelong friendships are formed, talents are nurtured, and confidence flourishes.
3. Outstanding Facilities
Boarders have access to the outstanding facilities on our 180 acre campus, including: a Learn-to-Ride centre with two equestrian simulators and arena; Beaulieu Padel New Hall Arena; 8 netball courts; 2 all-weather hockey pitches; 2 outdoor basketball courts; 5 rugby pitches; a 3G rugby and football training pitch; 7 football pitches; an athletics track; 4 cricket wickets with indoor and outdoor nets; a 25m, 6-lane indoor swimming pool; 10 tennis courts; a Sports Hall, a state-ofthe-art Fitness Suite featuring a full range of cardiovascular equipment and free weights; Dance studios; Music rooms; purpose-built study spaces and the Library.
4. Cultural Enrichment
With a train station at our entrance, central London is just 35 minutes away, opening up a world of opportunity. Our location also provides easy access to some of the UK’s most historic and culturally rich cities, including Cambridge and Oxford. We offer an inspiring programme of excursions, from theatre performances and guided walking tours to gallery visits and engaging cultural lectures, giving students rich, real-world learning experiences beyond the classroom. We also make the most of our setting with occasional trips to charming seaside towns along the east coast of England, adding variety and adventure to boarding life.
5. Wellbeing
Each boarding house is supported by a dedicated and experienced pastoral team, including, the Head of Boarding, Boarding Assistants, Matrons, Student Support Managers, Nurses from our Health & Wellbeing Centre, Counsellors, Heads of Division, and our Resident Chaplaincy Team. Together, they create a nurturing environment where every student is known, supported, and able to thrive. Our on-site, purpose-built Health & Wellbeing Centre provides exceptional care, working in partnership with a local GP practice to offer weekly clinics for boarders. Students can access the Health & Wellbeing Centre for routine advice or treatment, while our nursing team provides 24/7 on-call support, ensuring reassurance and expert care at all times.
Our Boarding Community Boarding at New Hall is so much more than just living at school; it is a community, an adventure, and a place where every day brings new opportunities. Our boarders come from more than 30 countries, as well as from across the UK, creating a truly international and inclusive environment. Boarders enjoy out-of-hours access to the excellent facilities that New Hall has to offer. At the heart of boarding is balance. Structured study time, supported by specialist staff, helps our students stay on top of their academic goals, while free time allows them to pursue passions, explore new interests, and simply enjoy themselves. This blend of study, recreation, and community living nurtures confidence, independence, and resilience; qualities that will serve students long into the future. We are proud to offer a boarding experience that not only supports academic excellence but also encourages personal growth and character development. Boarding at New Hall is about becoming the very best version of yourself and enjoying the journey along the way. Mr Samuel Carroll Director of Boarding
The Boarding Community
“Our son has always thoroughly enjoyed his time at New Hall, first as a day student and then as a flexi boarder. The School has helped him to develop into a confident and well-rounded young man, as we hoped it would.” - Parent of a Boarder
Hawley House For Junior Girls (Ages 9-15)
Mrs Laura Stotesbury Head of Boarding (Hawley House) Born and educated in Bath, Mrs Stotesbury read Economics and Education Studies at Fitzwilliam College, University of Cambridge. She has taught Economics and Business at senior independent schools for over twenty years. Alongside teaching, she has served as Deputy Head of Sixth Form and Deputy Head Academic in boarding settings, and most recently as Head of a Catholic independent school, giving her strategic, pastoral and community leadership experience. Mrs Stotesbury’s boarding experience spans fifteen years, three schools, and multiple roles in which she cared for boarders from the age of seven through to 19. In her spare time, Mrs Stotesbury enjoys music and theatre. Her passion is a cappella music, having led an all-female group at University and most recently singing with a choir who predominantly perform unaccompanied choral music.
“In Hawley House, we all support each other and develop strong friendships that we’ll keep for life. We all look out for each other and there is always someone there to talk to. With evenings structured around studying and socialising, boarding really brings out our academic potential and forges friendships that will last a lifetime.” - A Hawley Boarder
Petre House For Junior Boys (Ages 9-15)
Mr Tony Jenkins Head of Boarding (Petre House) Mr Jenkins has over 25 years of leadership experience, including 15 years in education and a decade in boarding across both independent and state schools. His calm, consistent, and values-driven approach helps students build confidence and independence, supported by effective study routines that have contributed to strong GCSE outcomes. Alongside his boarding role, he manages the School’s Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme and has previously led a Combined Cadet Force, providing students with opportunities to develop leadership, resilience, and a sense of service. Outside of school, Mr Jenkins enjoys adventure, having canoed the length of the River Thames and trekked to Nanga Parbat Base Camp.
“For anyone who isn’t a boarder – you’re missing out! I have boarded for four years and really enjoyed the range of activities that we get to do, from inter-house sports competitions to staff making us drinks every ‘Milkshake Monday’. While having lots of fun is an important part of boarding, the best part is the level of support we each receive from staff. Whether it’s helping us with our homework or cheering us up if we feel down, the staff treat us like family and are really lovely!” - A Petre Boarder
Dennett House For Senior Girls (Ages 16-19)
Mrs Michelle Borg Bonnici Head of Boarding (Dennett House) Mrs Borg Bonnici is an experienced boarding education professional with a strong academic background, holding a BA (Hons.) in Communications and Philosophy and an MBA from the University of Malta, along with a Diploma in Boarding Practice (Leadership). She has worked internationally across the UK, Russia, and China, progressing through roles from Housemistress to leadership positions, including Head of Girls’ Boarding. With over a decade of experience in British boarding and additional work in summer school programmes, Mrs Borg Bonnici brings a well-rounded perspective to student care and development. She is passionate about holistic education and committed to further academic research in boarding education. Outside of work, Mrs Borg Bonnici enjoys cooking, baking, photography, swimming, and promoting a zero-waste lifestyle.
“I have formed lifelong friendships in Dennett House. The boarding staff are so friendly and are always available for a chat. I thoroughly enjoy all the activities, such as gingerbread housemaking competitions and the famous bingo nights. Boarding has enabled me to broaden my horizons and gain independence, which will help me in university.” - A Dennett Boarder
En-suite rooms available
Campion House For Senior Boys (Ages 16-19)
Mr Samuel Higgs Head of Boarding (Campion House) Mr Higgs became the Head of Boarding for Campion House in 2024. He holds a BA (Hons.) in Philosophy and Politics from the University of Exeter, PGCE in Religious Education from King’s College London, and the Boarding Schools’ Association Advanced Certificate in Pastoral Care and Boarding Management. As part of New Hall’s Theology Department, Mr Higgs is also responsible for teaching GCSE and A Level Theology in the wider School community. Mr Higgs also has experience teaching IB Philosophy and Theory of Knowledge as well as supervision of the UCAS university application process. Passionate about holistic development, Mr Higgs is dedicated to making Campion House a true “home away from home.” He believes in fostering a warm, welcoming environment where every boarder feels valued, builds resilience, and achieves their full potential. Outside the classroom, he is a keen runner who enjoys exploring the countryside.
“Starting boarding in Year 12 was one of the best decisions I’ve made at New Hall. The opportunity to enjoy incredible facilities outside of school hours, all while being in a homely environment with my friends, is truly amazing!” - A Campion Boarder
En-suite rooms available
Academic Curriculum New Hall School operates the highly successful ‘diamond model’, where students are educated in co-educational classes from ages 1 to 11 and at Sixth Form. However, from ages 11 to 16 they are taught in single-sex lessons. The curriculum is distinctive in its breadth and academic rigour. An imaginatively taught and well-balanced curriculum is appropriately tailored to the needs of each student. Teachers at New Hall are passionate about their subjects, contributing to an all-round culture of success. The School is known for its distinctive academic initiatives, such as, immersive language learning in Cookery, where students cook whilst learning French or Spanish. From Year 7, students are timetabled over two weeks in the following subjects: Art & Design, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Cookery, Drama, English, Geography, History, Languages (French or Spanish), Latin, Mathematics, Music, Physical Education, Physics, PSHEE, Theology. This is supplemented by two sports sessions each week and an extensive range of co-curricular activities. The results from New Hall’s boarding students are outstanding. In 2026, at GCSE, 17% of the boarders’ grades were at the highest grade 9 and 40% of their grades at 8/9. At A Level, half of boarders’ grades were at A*/A and 75% of grades at A*-B.
Leavers’ Destinations
Leavers’ Destinations Scotland University of Dundee
North West University of Lancaster Liverpool Hope University University of Manchester
North East Durham University
Yorkshire and The Humber University of York University of Leeds University of Sheffield
East Midlands Loughborough University University of Nottingham Nottingham Trent University
West Midlands University of Birmingham University of Warwick
East of England University of Essex University of East Anglia Anglia Ruskin University
Wales University of Cardiff
South West University of Exeter University of Bath University of Bristol Bath Spa University Bournemouth University
South East University of Oxford University of Reading University of Kent University of Surrey University of Sussex
Top Course Choices 2026 • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Economics, Accountancy, Finance Business & Management Law & Politics Psychology & Social Sciences History, Ancient History & Classics Geography & Environmental Sciences Biological & Biomedical Sciences Medicine, Pharmacy & Clinical Sciences Sport, PE & Sport Science English & Journalism Languages & Modern Languages Media, Art & Fashion Physics & Engineering
London University of the Arts London Brunel University UCL (University College London) King’s College London LSE (The London School of Economics & Political Science) Queen Mary’s University London Royal Holloway University St Mary's University University of Westminster ACM Music London
Evening & Weekend Activities Co-curricular life at New Hall School is an integral part of the student experience, offering a broad and enriching programme that extends learning beyond the classroom. Students are encouraged to explore a wide range of interests, from Sport, Music, and Drama to academic enrichment, Debating, Cookery, and leadership opportunities such as The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, helping them to discover new talents and build confidence. Boarders also benefit from a full and engaging evening and weekend programme, further enriching their experience and sense of community. Sport: Boarders benefit from horse riding and equestrian simulator lessons, strength & conditioning sessions, golf, cricket, tennis, dodgeball, basketball, swimming, multisports, access to the Fitness Suite and much more. Dance: Weekday and Saturday classes include ballet, lyrical, tap, modern, jazz, commercial, and musical theatre. Music: Boarders have access to music practice rooms and opportunities to join numerous ensembles, such as the Beaulieu Park Singers. Chaplaincy & Faith Development: Boarders can join Daily Morning and Evening Prayer, lunchtime Mass, Youth Mass, and Community Mass on Sundays. During Advent and Lent, our Resident Preist leads a series of lectures exploring the Gospels. Our Chaplaincy Team leads a range of activities, including crafts, Bible stories, and pastoral support within the boarding houses. Cookery: Boarders take part in weekly cookery lessons, developing essential culinary skills alongside a strong understanding of safe food preparation. Academic Support: Boarders also benefit from additional academic support from subject specialist teachers.
Recent weekend activities have included: • • • • •
Theatre trips to London Punting in Cambridge Afternoon tea A trip to the seaside in Brighton Paddleboarding
Our Facilities
Set in a former Tudor palace with 180 acres of heritage grounds, New Hall’s idyllic campus includes: •
National standard athletics track
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Floodlit astroturf pitches and basketball courts
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Fitness suite
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10 floodlit tennis and 8 netball courts
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Cricket, football and rugby pitches
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25-metre 6-lane indoor swimming pool
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Learn-to-Ride centre with two equestrian simulators
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Beaulieu Padel New Hall Arena
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Farm, Outdoor Centre for the Natural Sciences & Saltwater Aquarium
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International Business & Languages Centre, with replica Downing Street
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Historic Chapel
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Performing Arts Centre
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Art studios with digital photography suite and a darkroom
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On-site Health & Wellbeing Centre
Food at New Hall At New Hall School, we recognise that active, growing children and young people need plenty of wholesome food and regular, balanced meals. Working in partnership with Holroyd Howe, our catering provider, we offer a welcoming dining experience that combines quality, variety, and nutrition, with something to satisfy every taste. Menus feature a wide choice of hot and cold dishes, alongside fresh fruit, vegetables, and salads, and are carefully designed to support a healthy balance of food groups. We are committed to ethical sourcing, using fresh, seasonal, locally grown, and environmentally sustainable ingredients wherever possible, whilst ensuring all suppliers meet the highest standards of quality, with full traceability and clear allergen and nutritional information. Our menus are regularly reviewed by a qualified nutritionist and incorporate student feedback. Boarders enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the Refectory, with an additional evening snack available in the houses. At weekends, breakfast is served within our boarding houses, helping to create a relaxed and homely community atmosphere.
A Day in the Life of a Boarder Senior Divisions (ages 11-19) Time 7.30am - 8.00am
Boarders’ breakfast
8.20am - 8.40am
Assemblies / Tutorial
8.45am - 9.40am
Period 1
9.45am - 10.40am
Period 2
10.40am - 11.00am
Morning Break
11.00am - 11.55am
Period 3
12.00pm - 12.55pm Period 4 12.55pm - 2.05pm
Lunch
12.55pm - 1.30pm Lunch 1 Activity 1.30pm - 2.15pm Lunch 2 Activity 2.20pm - 3.15pm
Period 5
3.20pm - 4.15pm
Period 6
4.15pm
End of school day
4.15pm - 4.30pm
Boarders return to Houses; snack time
4.30pm - 5.30pm
Co-curricular activities
5.45pm - 6.45pm
Boarders’ supper
6.30pm - 10.00pm
Study and boarding activities. Timings and bedtime routines vary depending on age groups.
“
The staff are always taking care of us, making sure every week is exciting and full of activities. I have experienced an amazing range of trips, such as bouldering, the F1 Arcade, a spa visit, the “Back to the Future” musical, a fireworks display, a football match, and so much more. - Year 11, Full Boarder
Settling into Boarding Throughout the year, we host a series of Boarder Taster Evenings. These themed events offer prospective boarding students a unique opportunity to experience life in our boarding houses and meet our dedicated boarding staff. Find out more about our upcoming Boarding Taster events here: All new Year 7 and Year 12 boarders are invited to a Boarding induction in early September. This includes a dedicated welcome day, followed by a full School induction day. Students also enjoy guided tours of the campus and a local boarding trip on Saturday, helping them become familiar with the local city and surrounding area before the term begins.
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Boarding has been a defining part of my experience. It has strengthened friendships in a way that only living alongside others can, while also teaching me discipline, structure and independence. Having extended access to facilities such as the fitness suite and music practice rooms allows us to make the most of our interests beyond the School day. - Year 13, Flexible Boarder
Next Steps Please contact our Admissions Team to discuss your child’s entry to Boarding. Email
admissions@newhallschool.co.uk
Telephone
+44 (0) 1245 236 098
New Hall School, The Avenue, Boreham, Chelmsford, CM3 3HS ©NewHallSchoolTrust