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Catholic Independent Diamond Model Boarding (9-19) & Day (1-19) School

International Boarding Handbook London Linked

CONTENTS Welcome 1 Our Location 2 Why Choose Boarding? 3 Our Boarding Community 6 The Boarding Houses 8 Academic Curriculum 16 English Language Academy 17 Leavers’ Destinations 18 Evening & Weekend Activities 20 Our Facilities 22 Food at New Hall 24 Timings of the Day 25 Settling into Boarding 27 Admissions Process 28 Visa Requirements 30 Guardians 31

NEW HALL SCHOOL At a glance New Hall is a Catholic Independent Diamond Model Boarding (ages 9-19) & Day (ages 1-19) School in Chelmsford, set in an idyllic campus, just 35 minutes from London. Divisions Nursery: Ages 1-4 Preparatory Divisions: Ages 4-11 Middle Division: Ages 11-16 Sixth Form: Ages 16-19 Religion Catholic Year Founded 1642 Pupil roll 1400 Boarders 400

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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Our Location

New Hall is based in an exceptional location for students arriving from overseas. We are just 35 minutes from central London by train, with Beaulieu Park Station at our entrance, connecting New Hall to London, East Anglia and all major airports. London Stansted and London Southend airports are within 40 minutes drive of New Hall. London Gatwick and London Heathrow airports are around 1 hour 30 minutes drive away. All London airports have regular flights from around the UK, Europe and international destinations.

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 flexible 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 from the UK

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 from the UAE

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.

“My favourite aspect about boarding is the socials we have with Campion every Wednesday. It gives us an opportunity to not only bond with the girls in our House but also the boys from the other Sixth Form House. We’ve had different events like quizzes, basketball matches, the ‘Pancake Race’, formals. They have all been successful and very enjoyable.” - A Dennett Boarder from Hong Kong

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.

“The boarders are very welcoming, regardless of if you have boarded before or are a newcomer. The staff are open minded and caring, and you can always have a good laugh with them. You can truly experience and live New Hall’s ethos by being a boarder. There is a real sense of belonging and community within the House, the importance of which cannot be understated.” - A Campion Boarder from North Macedonia 14

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. 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.

English Language Academy Bilingual and multilingual students can access a range of English courses meeting various language needs through our English Language Academy. Short-stay students who are developing their English proficiency can attend weekly ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) lessons designed both to strengthen their language skills and to build confidence in speaking. For students planning to apply to universities in the UK, USA, and internationally, we also provide Academic IELTS preparation classes that are held once or twice a week. The Academy also offers bespoke classes for academic writing support. As part of its enrichment programme, the English Language Academy also provides mock IELTS examinations, allowing students to assess their progress and identify areas for improvement. Students have the opportunity to enter Cambridge English qualifications at B1, B2, C1 and C2 levels to demonstrate their English proficiency for academic and career pathways in Europe. Residential Summer Camp New Hall runs an English Language Academy Camp over the summer, offering international students an immersive programme that combines dynamic English language learning with enriching cultural experiences. Alongside daily English lessons, students enjoy carefully planned excursions to Cambridge, London and other local destinations, providing authentic opportunities to practise their language skills and gain a deeper understanding of British culture and heritage.

Find out more

Leavers’ Destinations

Leavers’ Destinations Scotland Scotland University of Dundee University of Dundee

North West NorthofWest University Lancaster University of Lancaster Liverpool Hope University Liverpool Hope University University of Manchester University of Manchester

North East North East Durham University Durham University

Yorkshire and The Humber Yorkshire and The Humber University of York UniversityofofLeeds York University University Leeds University ofof Sheffield University of Sheffield East Midlands East Midlands Loughborough University Loughborough University University of Nottingham University of Nottingham Nottingham Trent University Nottingham Trent University

West Midlands West of Midlands University Birmingham University UniversityofofBirmingham Warwick University of Warwick

East of England East of England University of Essex University of Essex University of East Anglia University of East Anglia Anglia Ruskin University Anglia Ruskin University

Wales Wales University of Cardiff University of Cardiff

South West South West University of Exeter University Universityof ofExeter Bath UniversityofofBristol Bath University University of Bristol Bath Spa University Bath Spa University Bournemouth University Bournemouth University

South East Southof East University Oxford University Oxford University ofofReading University of Reading University of Kent UniversityofofSurrey Kent University University of of Sussex Surrey University University of Sussex

Top Course Choices 2026 Top Course Choices 2026

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Economics, Accountancy, Finance Economics, Accountancy, Finance Business & Management Business & Management Law & Politics Law & Politics Psychology & Social Sciences Psychology & Social Sciences History, Ancient History & Classics History, Ancient History & Classics Geography & Environmental Sciences Geography & Environmental Sciences Biological & Biomedical Sciences Biological & Biomedical Sciences Medicine, Pharmacy & Clinical Sciences Medicine, & Clinical Sciences Sport, PE &Pharmacy Sport Science Sport, PE Sport Science English && Journalism English & Journalism Languages & Modern Languages Languages & Fashion Modern Languages Media, Art & Media, Art & Fashion Physics & Engineering Physics & Engineering

London London University of the Arts London University ofUniversity the Arts London Brunel Brunel UCL (UniversityUniversity College London) UCL King’s (University College London) College London King’s College London LSE (The London School of Economics LSE (The London School of Economics & Political Science) & Political Science)London Queen Mary’s University Queen Mary’s University London Royal Holloway University Royal Holloway University St Mary's University St Mary's University of University Westminster University of Westminster ACM Music London 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. Weekends are a highlight of boarding life at New Hall, with a carefully planned programme of activities and excursions offering something for everyone. Boarders can enjoy trips to London, Cambridge and Oxford, theatre visits, cultural experiences, sporting activities and social events, providing the perfect balance of adventure, relaxation and friendship. We also take advantage of our location to organise occasional visits to charming seaside destinations along England’s east coast, creating memorable experiences and helping students feel at home away from home. 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:

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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

Healthy Eating 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.

Timings of the Day

Preparatory and Senior Divisions (ages 9-19) Time 7.30am-8.00am

Breakfast

8.20am-4.15pm School 4.15pm-5.30pm Boarders Return to Houses; Snack Time 4.30pm-5.30pm Co-Curricular 5.30pm-6.30pm Optional Evening Prayer 5.45pm-6.45pm Boarders Supper 6.30pm-8.30pm Study Time (timings vary by year groups) 7.00pm-9.45pm Activity Time (timings vary by year groups) Study Times • 6.30pm-7.00pm | Years 5-6 • 6.30pm-7.15 pm | Years 7-8 • 6.30pm-7.30pm | Year 9 • 6.30pm-8.00pm | Years 10-11 • 7.00-8.30pm | Years 12-13 Activities Include: • Basketball Development • Boarders’ Music Practice • Activities in the Chaplaincy Chambers • Fitness Suite Circuit Training • Swimming • Tennis

• Golf • Choir • Football • Cookery • Film Society

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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 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. All new international boarders, as well as 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. Find out more about our upcoming Boarding Taster events here:

International Admissions Process Initial Enquiry Please send us a copy of your child’s two most recent school reports, including their level of English, plus a colour copy of their passport. Once reviewed, and if we are able to consider your child, we will ask you to complete our registration form. Registering Please complete our registration form and return it with payment of the registration fee. Virtual Meet & Greet Join a virtual welcome session with the Director of Boarding. Online Assessment Stage Once registered, we will send through assessment details. Assessments must be sat under examination conditions and with appropriate invigilation. Students can complete the assessments at their current school, an agency office, or at the local British Council offices. Students will also be required to have an interview, which can be completed online. Offer Decision & Acceptance Should your child be successful in receiving an offer, we will send the offer letter together with supporting documentation for completion. To accept the offer, we will need to receive the completed Acceptance Form and the required deposit (one term’s fees for stays of over a year) by the deadline stated in the offer letter. New Starter Information Information will be sent to you during the term before entry, to ensure you have everything you need. This includes uniform, contact information, permissions and handbooks, to ensure a smooth transition into our School community. Visa Assistance If your child requires a visa to study in the UK, we will liaise with you to ensure you have the correct information for your application. You will recieve support from Fragomen, the School’s immigration lawyers.

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International Entry ENTRY POINTS & ASSESSMENTS

Preparatory Division Years 5 & 6: If space available/ short-stays

Ages 9-11

ASSESSMENTS English knowledge assessment 1 hour English written assessment 45 minutes Maths assessment 30 minutes English language interview

Girls’ & Boys’ Divisions

Ages 11-16

ASSESSMENTS English knowledge assessment English written assessment Maths assessments Interview

1 hour 30 minutes 1 hour

Years 7 & 9: Entry points / short stays Years 8 & 10: If space available / short-stays Year 11: Short-stay only for Michaelmas

Sixth Form Ages 16-19 Years 12: Entry point / short-stays

ASSESSMENTS English knowledge assessment English written assessment Maths assessments Interview

1 hour 30 minutes 1 hour

Visa Requirements 1 Offer & Visa Information For a Sponsored Student joining New Hall on a Child Student Visa, the offer letter will include the visa processing cost, details of Fragomen (the School’s immigration lawyers) and any necessary documentation.

2 Documents required Within one week of accepting the offer, families will need to provide: • Current passport – full colour copy • Previous e-Visa (if held) • Current BRP/visa (if held) • Birth certificate, with certified English translation if required • Copies of both parents’ passports • Completed and signed Guardian Policy • Letter of undertaking from the nominated guardian/guardian organisation, if the host family is not known • Nominated guardian’s British passport or settled status • Nominated guardian’s proof of address, if using an individual guardian rather than a guardianship company • Parent consent letter signed by both parents

3 New Hall instructs Fragomen Once all documents are received, New Hall initiates the case with Fragomen and uploads documents to their secure server. There is usually a lead time of three days for this to be completed.

4 Visa drafted by Fragomen Fragomen will contact families to begin the draft visa process. This will take at least two days following initiation.

5 Visa application process Fragomen oversees all aspects of the visa application process, which can take up to four weeks. They aim to respond to queries within a two-day timeframe.

6 CAS & UKVI Timings • • • • •

The timing of New Hall School’s UKVI Basic Compliance Assessment is determined by UKVI. A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) can be issued once UKVI has provided its decision, which may be received between late April and early July. UKVI processing times for this decision can be up to 19 weeks As a result, elements of the Child Student Visa application process may continue into late July or August. Basic Compliance Assessment timelines vary between schools, so the timing of CAS issuance may differ from one institution to another.

Summer Support

The Admissions Team remain available throughout the Summer break, monitoring the progress of applications.

Educational Guardians For all overseas students, it is a requirement to have a UK-based Educational Guardian who lives within two hours of the School. Educational Guardians provide extra support to students, ensuring their welfare in and out of School, and are often a base during half terms and holidays when the school is closed. An Educational Guardian acts as the overseas parents’ representative, and is independent of the School. Arrangements for appointing an educational guardian are the responsibility of parents, and we strongly recommend choosing an accredited educational guardian. Details of your appointed guardian should be included on the Acceptance Form.

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 Submit at enquiry: