PARENTS’ BOARDING HANDBOOK
Contents
Page 3: Statement of Boarding principles and practice
Page 4: Management and development of boarding
Page 5: Inclusion, equality and diversity
Pages 6 - 7: Boarding accommodation
Pages 10 - 13: Boarders’ health and wellbeing
Pages 14 - 15: Drugs, alcohol and tobacco
Pages 18 - 19: Safeguarding
Pages 20 - 23: Safety of boarders
Pages 24 - 25: Boarders’ induction and individual support
Pages 26 - 27: Supporting international pupils and those with additional needs
Pages 30 - 37: Contact and communication
Pages 38 - 40: Activities and free time
Pages 42 - 43: The academic programme
Pages 44 - 45: Staff recruitment and checks
Pages 46 - 47: Ambassadors and leadership
Page 48: Guardians
Page 49: Lodgings and host families
Statement of boarding principles and practice
At Sherborne Prep, boarding is underpinned by a commitment to the individual. We aim to create a warm, inclusive environment in which children feel supported, valued and encouraged to grow.
We provide:
• a holistic approach that recognises and celebrates the uniqueness of each child
• a culture of mutual respect and kindness
• a safe and nurturing community that fosters spiritual, moral, social and cultural development
• an environment free from abuse, intimidation, prejudice, teasing or bullying
• equal opportunity for all, regardless of ethnicity, culture, gender or ability
• provision for specific religious, dietary, language or cultural needs
• a respect for individual privacy and personal space
• encouragement to reach academic and personal potential
• positive partnerships with parents and guardians
We nurture:
• physical and emotional wellbeing
• a strong sense of security and belonging
• healthy self-esteem and a growing self-awareness
In short, boarding at Sherborne Prep provides a secure and enriching home-from-home, where children can thrive and be themselves.
Management and development of boarding
Boarding house structure:
Sherborne Prep offers a co-educational boarding environment. Whilst routines may differ slightly for boys and girls, the values, expectations and care remain consistent. This ensures clarity for pupils, staff and families, and creates a safe and supportive structure in which children can flourish.
Boarding team:
• Mr Daniel Chiappa-Patching, Head of Boarding
• Mrs Joanna Pepper, Assistant Houseparent
• Miss Gracie Forster, Graduate Assistant Teacher in Residence
• Mrs Sian Brant, Matron
• Mr Alastair Bowden, Deputy Head (Pastoral) and Designated Safeguarding Lead
This experienced team provides daily pastoral care, supports academic progress, and ensures children feel secure, known and at home.
GAPs and Graduate GAPs:
Our GAPs (including Graduate GAPs) are residential staff based across the Boarding house. They support boarding routines and activities and also contribute to wider school life.
Their working hours are co-ordinated by the Deputy Head (Co-Curricular) and Deputy Head (Pastoral), in conjunction with other senior staff.
Inclusion, equality and diversity
At Sherborne Prep, we are committed to creating a warm, inclusive boarding environment where every child feels valued, respected and at home. We believe that children should have the freedom to be themselves, enjoy an element of choice, and experience the care and encouragement they would expect in a family setting.
Our approach is underpinned by a clear and comprehensive Equal Opportunities Policy, which ensures that pupils and staff are treated fairly and without discrimination. We welcome and support all members of our community, regardless of gender, ability, race, religion or belief, cultural or linguistic background, special educational needs, sexual orientation, gender identity or academic ability.
The boarding team recognises that every child is unique. We aim to reflect this in the structure and routines of boarding life, allowing space for individuality while fostering a strong sense of shared community. Children are encouraged to respect one another’s individuality, look out for each other, and contribute positively to a diverse and inclusive culture.
All staff are expected to uphold the principles of equality in their daily practice and in their relationships with pupils, families and one another. By modelling fairness, kindness and respect, we help every child feel confident, supported and able to thrive.
For more information, please refer to the Sherborne Prep Equal Opportunities Policy.
Boarding accommodation
Dormitories
Boys and girls are accommodated in separate, secure areas of the boarding house. Each area is protected by key card access and is alarmed overnight. Dormitories are locked during the day, with access limited to authorised staff and pupils.
Boarders’ possessions
Valuables should be handed to Matron for safekeeping. We advise that expensive or unnecessary personal items are not brought into school. Passports and visas are securely stored in the School Office safe.
Food and drink
All meals are eaten in the school dining hall, unless a pupil is off site for a fixture or activity. Packed lunch options are available, and the Catering Department can accommodate all medical and religious dietary requirements. Drinking fountains are located around the school. Any water not suitable for drinking is clearly labelled.
Food in dorms
Food must not be stored or consumed in the dormitories.
Tuck
A supervised tuck shop runs on Wednesday evenings. Pupils may also buy tuck during Saturday town visits.
Evening snack
Toast and milk are available in the boarding house on weekday evenings.
Birthdays
If a pupil is celebrating a birthday during term time, staff will supervise the sharing of any cake brought from home (which must be nut-free). Boarding staff can also organise a birthday cake on behalf of parents if preferred, with the cost added to the school bill.
Boarders’ health and wellbeing
Sherborne Prep has robust procedures to ensure all boarders are well cared for. The school follows the Sherborne Prep First Aid and Medical Policy, which outlines the systems in place to support pupils who are unwell or in need of medical attention.
Sick bay
The school has a dedicated sick bay with a consultation and isolation room. Pupils also have access to the Senior School Health Centre for further care if required.
Emergency care
There is always a trained first aider on site, 24 hours a day. The Senior School Health Centre is available for additional support, and we are close to both the Yeatman Hospital Minor Injuries Unit and Yeovil District Hospital.
Referrals
The Health Centre can arrange non-emergency referrals for dental, orthodontic, optometric or specialist services where appropriate.
Doctor appointments
Boarders may see the school doctor at the Senior School Health Centre; this can be arranged by staff as required. The school doctor is part of the Yetminster Health Centre.
Storage and administration of medicines
All medication is securely stored in Sick Bay. Keys are held in a pincoded safe.
• prescribed medication must be handed directly to Matron and will be administered under her supervision.
• non-prescribed medication (e.g. paracetamol) may be given by Matrons or senior boarding staff, following approved procedures.
• all medication is recorded in the Medication Book and logged on CPOMS (Child Protection Online Monitoring System).
Known medical conditions
Matron ensures the Head of Boarding and all boarding staff are aware of pupils with medical conditions. Key information is shared via iSAMS (Internet-based Schools Admin Management System)/CPOMS and during staff briefings.
Infectious illness
If a boarder presents with an infectious condition, such as chickenpox, parents or guardians will be contacted to agree next steps.
Immunisations
The school follows the guidance provided by the school doctor and Dorset Health Nurses.
Doctor appointments
Boarders may see the school doctor at the Senior School Health Centre; this can be arranged by staff as required. The school doctor is part of the Yetminster Health Centre.
Dental and optometric care
Parents and guardians are responsible for arranging their child’s dental and optometric appointments, unless there is an emergency.
Counselling
Any boarder who wishes to speak to a counsellor or independent adult is welcome to do so. Please speak to the Head of Boarding or the Deputy Head Pastoral for more information.
Overnight illness
If a pupil becomes unwell during the night, a member of the boarding staff will provide care. Parents will be contacted if further action is required.
Drugs, alcohol and tobacco
Sherborne Prep maintains a clear and firm stance on the misuse of drugs, alcohol and/or tobacco. These substances are strictly prohibited in order to safeguard pupil wellbeing and uphold the values of our community.
Pupils
The use, possession, or supply of illegal substances, alcohol, tobacco or e-cigarettes is not permitted under any circumstances. Any pupil found in breach of this expectation will face serious consequences. While the school’s response will be firm, it will also be age-appropriate and sensitive to the individual’s circumstances.
In cases involving drugs, a pupil is likely to be suspended immediately while a full investigation is carried out. The school will consider all relevant factors, including the pupil’s understanding, intention, and the context in which the incident occurred.
Education around the risks and consequences of substance misuse is embedded within both the Science and the PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic) curriculum. Pupils who make a poor choice are supported, through appropriate re-education and pastoral, care to help them understand the consequences and dangers involved.
Staff
Staff are not permitted to smoke on school premises or in sight of pupils.
Alcohol may not be consumed during the working day, unless approved in advance by the Head (for example, at a formal school event). In such cases, intake must be moderate and undetectable by smell or behaviour.
Any staff member responsible for transporting pupils must be fit to do so and must not consume alcohol on the day of driving or accompanying pupils on other means of transportation.
The use of illegal drugs by staff is treated as gross professional misconduct and will be dealt with under the school’s disciplinary procedures.
Visitors and adults on-site
All adults visiting Sherborne Prep, including parents, contractors and guests, are expected to comply fully with the school’s expectations regarding smoking, alcohol and/or drug use whilst on site.
Safeguarding
At Sherborne Prep, safeguarding and promoting the welfare of every child is at the heart of what we do. We are committed to providing a safe, secure and supportive environment, where children feel confident, valued and heard.
Every adult in our community shares responsibility for safeguarding. All staff are expected to take prompt and appropriate action if they are concerned about a child’s wellbeing or safety.
Our full approach to safeguarding is outlined in the Child Protection Policy, which is reviewed annually by the Governing Body and is available on the school website. Sherborne Prep follows the statutory guidance set out in Keeping Children Safe in Education (2025) and has clear structures in place to ensure accountability at every level.
The following members of staff hold key responsibilities for safeguarding:
• Strategic Safeguarding Leads (Senior Leadership Team): Mr Alastair Bowden and Mrs Annie Gent
• Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL): Mr Alastair Bowden
• Designated Safeguarding Lead for EYFS: Mrs Becky Horlock
• Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads: Mr Andrew Treavett and Mrs Becky Horlock (EYFS)
The DSL is responsible for overseeing all safeguarding matters. This includes deciding when to take further action or refer concerns to external agencies, such as Children’s Social Care or the Police.
Safeguarding governance:
• Safeguarding Governor: Mrs Nicki Edwards
• Chair of Governors: Mr Christopher Samler
• Boarding Governor: Mrs Sally Craig-McFeely
If you would like to view our Child Protection Policy or any other safeguarding documents, please visit the Policies section of the school website or contact the School Office.
Safety of boarders
At Sherborne Prep, the safety, health and wellbeing of every child is our top priority. We take a proactive and thorough approach to ensuring that our boarding environment is safe, secure and supportive at all times.
Health and safety
All staff have a shared responsibility for the health and safety of pupils in their care. Specific team members hold designated responsibilities as outlined in the School’s Health and Safety Policy.
All new staff are required to read and understand this policy during their induction, and carry out their duties with care, diligence and attention to safeguarding.
Risk assessments:
Risk assessments are completed for:
• all boarding activities and trips
• the boarding house environment
These assessments are regularly reviewed and held by the Bursar, ensuring that any potential risks are identified and minimised in line with best practice.
For further information, please see the Sherborne Prep Risk Assessments Policy.
Physical intervention
In rare and exceptional circumstances, staff may be required to use reasonable force to prevent a child from harming themselves or others. This is carried out only when absolutely necessary and by appropriately trained members of staff.
Full details are available in the school’s Use of Reasonable Force to Control, Intervene or Restrain Policy.
Search protocol
There may be occasions when it becomes necessary to search a pupil, their belongings or their room. This is always conducted in line with safeguarding guidance and only when it is considered to be in the best interests of the pupil or wider community. Full procedures are outlined in the Sherborne Prep Search Policy and Protocol.
Fire precautions and drills
We have clear procedures in place for evacuation in the event of fire or other civil emergency. These are practised regularly so that pupils are confident in what to do.
• a walk-through is completed at the start of each term so new boarders are familiar with fire procedures
• an un-announced drill is then held, usually in the early morning or during weekend free time
• a roll call is conducted at the muster point on the upper netball court by the duty staff
• evacuation instructions are clearly displayed in each dormitory and on house noticeboards
More information can be found in the Fire and Fire Prevention Policy.
Lockdown
Sherborne Prep has a practical and age-appropriate Lockdown Policy in the event of a serious incident. This is designed to keep pupils and staff safe, whilst emergency services are contacted and the situation is assessed.
For further information, please refer to the Lockdown and Serious Incident Protocol.
Boarders’ induction and individual support
At Sherborne Prep, we are committed to helping every boarder settle in quickly, feel at home and thrive. Our induction programme ensures new pupils are welcomed, supported and introduced to boarding life with care and confidence.
Induction programme
All new boarders follow a structured induction at the start of their first term. This includes:
• meeting the Head of Boarding and boarding staff
• meeting their Form Teacher. where possible. before term begins
• getting to know other new and returning boarders
• exploring their dormitory, the boarding house and the wider school campus
• completing administrative tasks (e.g. medical forms, pocket money, travel info, tuck storage)
• purchasing or receiving any uniform or equipment still required
The aim of the induction is to reduce anxiety, create a sense of belonging and build the foundations for a happy and settled boarding experience.
Induction aims
The programme is designed to:
• ensure every new pupil has a named buddy (designated peer) to offer friendly support
• prevent isolation and to help pupils build connections early on
• provide practical help and guidance for daily routines
• ease the transition into a new environment and school culture
• encourage ongoing integration through the rest of the year
The buddy system
Each new pupil is paired with a buddy – a current boarder who knows the school well. Wherever possible, contact is made before term begins. Buddies support by:
• meeting and welcoming the new pupil on arrival
• introducing them to routines, spaces and school life
• checking in regularly during the first week
• offering continued support throughout the term
• raising any concerns to staff if needed
Boarders’ handbook
All new boarders and their families receive a copy of the Boarders’ Handbook before arrival. This child-friendly guide outlines boarding routines, expectations and pastoral support. It also acts as a useful reference for parents.
Supporting international pupils and those with additional needs
Sherborne Prep is proud to welcome pupils from a wide range of countries, cultures and backgrounds. We recognise that joining a new school – especially in a different country – can be a significant transition, and we are committed to providing thoughtful, personalised support throughout this journey.
We celebrate diversity and promote a culture of kindness, mutual respect and inclusion. Our approach acknowledges that integration is not always straightforward, particularly for international pupils or those with specific cultural, religious, dietary or language needs. It takes time, patience and a whole-school commitment to ensure each child feels settled, understood and valued.
We are committed to:
• promoting equality of access and opportunity for all pupils
• celebrating cultural diversity and individual identity
• providing practical support, tailored to individual needs
• ensuring every child feels safe, respected and included
We do this by ensuring that:
• specific religious, dietary, language or cultural needs are met with care
• cultural or religious dress requirements are respected
• translated information and interpreter support is available, where needed
• hair and skin products are provided, where appropriate
• religious festivals are recognised and, where possible, celebrated
• staff are sensitive to the emotional and social needs of pupils adapting to a new environment
All reasonable adjustments are made to help each child settle in and feel at home. The Head of Boarding oversees provision for pupils with particular needs, and works closely with families to ensure strong communication and tailored care.
For more information, please see the Particulars of the Educational and Welfare Provision for Pupils with whom English is an Additional Language.
Contact and communication
Contact with parents and guardians
At Sherborne Prep, we believe that regular and open communication between school and home is essential to every child’s wellbeing. We work in partnership with parents and guardians to support each boarder’s progress, happiness and development.
The boarding team is always happy to speak with families. If we have any concerns about your child’s health, wellbeing or behaviour, we will be in touch promptly. Likewise, please don’t hesitate to contact the Head of Boarding or Assistant Housemistress if you have questions or would like an update on your child’s experience in boarding.
Mobile phones and smartphones:
Children may bring in mobile phones. These must be kept with Matron and are only accessible for communication purposes between 6.45 -8.30pm, on Saturdays after sport and on Sundays. Please bear in mind that we are a smartphone-free school and as such smartphones are not required. (Please note the distinction between ‘mobile phones,’ ‘phones’ and ‘smartphones’).
Tablets and internet-enabled devices: Many children bring in tablets and these are ideal for communicating via the internet. Video calling is available on the school network. Years 7 and 8 students are provided a school laptop. All devices are stored securely.
Listening to boarders
We value our pupils’ voice and encourage children to share their thoughts, celebrate successes and offer suggestions as to how boarding life can be even better.
Children are encouraged to speak directly with boarding staff, their Form Teacher or their Buddy whenever they wish. In addition, we offer regular opportunities to share feedback in a structured and supportive way:
• daily check-ins and notices at breakfast and supper
• a house meeting every week to celebrate achievements and discuss boarding life
• a catering suggestion box in the dining hall
• worry boxes in the junior wing and outside the Deputy Head (Pastoral)’s office for confidential concerns
Complaints
We take all concerns seriously and aim to resolve them swiftly, fairly and supportively. If a pupil or parent feels that an issue has not been resolved appropriately, our formal complaints procedures can be followed.
• Sherborne Prep Pupil Complaints Policy
• Sherborne Prep Parental Complaints Policy
We are committed to maintaining a culture of openness, safety and mutual respect, where all members of our community feel heard and supported.
Promoting positive behaviour
At Sherborne Prep, positive behaviour is underpinned by our Dragon Values and a belief in mutual respect, responsibility and kindness. In the boarding houses, children are supported to develop good habits, take ownership of their actions and contribute positively to our shared community.
Expectations in boarding
We follow the same behaviour expectations in boarding as we do across the wider school. There is no separate list of ‘boarding rules;’ instead, we foster a calm, kind and respectful atmosphere, where children are guided by clear routines and positive relationships.
The boarding team, together with the Head and Form Teachers, ensures consistency in expectations, and supports children to reflect – and learn from – when things go wrong. Distinctions may be made between behaviours relevant to the academic day and those specific to the boarding environment.
You can read more about our approach in the Sherborne Prep Aims, Ethos and Mission Statement.
Boarding points
Children are recognised and rewarded for helpfulness, kindness, effort and positive conduct through our boarding points system. Duty staff award points each evening, which are tallied and reviewed every week during house meetings.
The boarder and flexi-boarder with the highest totals are celebrated with a certificate and small reward.
Strikes
Low-level disruption or repeated lateness may result in a strike. If a child receives three strikes in one evening, they will have an earlier bedtime, beginning with showers at 7.30pm.
Strikes are tracked by the duty staff and do not usually carry over to the following day, unless the behaviour occurs after lights out or is part of a wider pattern.
Recording incidents
All behaviour incidents and sanctions are recorded in the staff handover notes (using OneNote) and logged on CPOMS. More serious matters are referred to the Deputy Head (Pastoral) for further action.
Preventing bullying
Sherborne Prep is committed to creating a boarding environment where every child feels safe, respected and able to thrive. Bullying, in any form, is not tolerated. All concerns are addressed promptly, with care and discretion, in line with the Sherborne Prep Anti-Bullying Policy.
Promoting kindness and respect
We actively promote leadership through service. Boarding staff model kind, respectful behaviour, and older pupils are encouraged to take on mentoring and supportive roles.
The Dragon Values sit at the heart of this approach, with particular focus in the boarding environment on responsibility, respect and inclusion.
Activities and free time
At Sherborne Prep, we believe that a rich co-curricular life is essential to each child’s development. The boarding experience offers a wide variety of activities that encourage creativity, collaboration and joy, helping children explore new interests and develop important life skills.
Overview and philosophy:
Our extra-curricular programme is an integral part of the curriculum and is designed to extend learning beyond the classroom. Activities support physical, emotional and social development, and offer valuable opportunities for pupils to build confidence and discover their strengths.
Sessions take place in break times, after lunch, after school and on Saturday mornings. These sessions include a broad range of options, from outdoor adventure and cooking, to creative clubs and the performing arts.
Activities are structured to:
• promote teamwork, coordination and perseverance
• develop independence and resilience
• celebrate talents outside the classroom
• provide meaningful opportunities for play and relaxation
• ensure children feel included, valued and engaged
Evening activities:
Each evening, the boarding team leads a scheduled activity between 6.45pm and 7.30pm. These might include games, outdoor play or themed events, providing a relaxed opportunity for children to socialise and unwind. Pupils with music practice during this time are supported and supervised by the duty member of staff.
Enrichment programme:
Boarders benefit fully from Sherborne Prep’s Enrichment Programme, which offers break time, lunch time and after-school clubs covering a wide variety of interests and skills.
At least one Enrichment slot per week should be used for quiet academic study or prep, helping children manage their workload effectively whilst still being able to benefit from the wider programme.
Additional commitments:
We understand that some pupils have external commitments, such as elite sports, performance rehearsals or private tuition. Where needed, we provide flexible support in the form of, for example:
• late meals
• additional prep time
• time for rest and reflection
Our focus is always on maintaining a healthy balance and supporting pupil wellbeing.
Weekend trips and outings:
Each term, the Head of Boarding organises a calendar of weekend trips, offering boarders a mix of fun, cultural enrichment and adventure. From cinema trips and climbing walls, to museum visits and woodland walks, these experiences are a much-loved part of the boarding routine.
Families are asked to let boarding staff know by Thursday of each week if their child will be boarding at the weekend, to allow time for planning and bookings.
The boarding team is committed to making weekends enjoyable and memorable, offering a home-from-home experience that fosters community, independence and friendship.
The academic programme
At Sherborne Prep, we take great care to ensure that boarding pupils are fully supported throughout their academic journey. We recognise that boarders may not have the same day-to-day access to family support as their day peers, and we are committed to providing an environment that balances independence with structured guidance and care.
Academic support in boarding Evening prep is supervised by boarding staff, who are on hand to offer encouragement and individual assistance where needed. Whether helping with a tricky maths question, discussing a piece of writing, or simply creating a calm and purposeful atmosphere, staff ensure that pupils feel confident and able to focus.
Some pupils receive additional support from the Learning Support department, and evening routines are adjusted accordingly to ensure that every child benefits fully from the resources available.
Prep and Form Times also offer opportunities for quiet study and reflection, and pupils are encouraged to use at least one Enrichment session each week for independent academic work. This helps them to develop strong study habits and a confident approach to managing their workload.
When prep requires access to digital tools, boarders can use the school’s computer room; daily time slots and availability are shared during evening notices.
Monitoring progress
Subject teachers are responsible for assessing and marking pupils’ work in line with the school’s Schemes of Work and Curriculum policies. Form Teachers oversee the overall academic progress and wellbeing of each pupil, maintaining regular communication with parents and, where appropriate, with the boarding team.
If concerns arise regarding a pupil’s progress or engagement, support is put in place swiftly and the Form Teacher, in consultation with the Senior Deputy Head (Academic) or Head of Learning Support, will contact families to discuss next steps.
Reporting
Pupil progress is monitored closely throughout the year, with parents receiving Assessment Reports twice a term outlining attainment, effort and the development of key learning skills.
At the end of the Michaelmas Term, a Form Tutor Report accompanies the assessment data, providing an overview of each pupil’s pastoral development, approach to learning and progress in core subjects. A full subject report is shared at the end of the academic year, offering a comprehensive summary of achievements and next steps.
This consistent and transparent approach keeps families well informed and closely connected to their child’s learning, wherever they may be based. By combining personalised support, clear communication and high expectations, we help every boarder to feel confident, motivated and proud of their progress.
Staff recruitment and checks
At Sherborne Prep, the safety and wellbeing of every child is our top priority. As such, we follow a robust recruitment process to ensure that all staff working with boarders, whether teaching or support staff, are carefully vetted and trained to uphold the highest standards of care.
Boarding access and accommodation
All members of the boarding household are required to read, understand and sign the school’s Boarding Access and Accommodation Policy. This policy outlines the safeguarding expectations for those living or working in the boarding environment and ensures everyone is clear on their responsibilities.
Only authorised adults may access the boarding houses and access is monitored closely by the senior boarding team. Our procedures are designed to maintain a safe, supportive and age-appropriate setting in which pupils can thrive.
Staff training and development:
All boarding staff undergo a thorough induction process, which includes:
• safeguarding and child protection
• first aid
• fire safety
• boarding-specific training
We are committed to ongoing professional development. Staff are encouraged to access further training opportunities throughout the year, and regular updates are provided in line with national guidance and school priorities.
The Head of Boarding works closely with the Deputy Heads to ensure all training is current, relevant and effective. Staff also have access to publications and resources from the Boarding Schools’ Association (BSA) and key information is shared with Matron and the wider pastoral team.
Through this approach, we aim to ensure that all staff, whether new to boarding or highly experienced, feel confident, supported and ready to care for your child.
Ambassadors and leadership
At Sherborne Prep, we believe in nurturing leadership skills and encouraging pupils to act as positive role models within the boarding community. Our Year 8 boarders can be recognised as Ambassadors and take on important responsibilities to support younger pupils and enrich daily life in the houses.
Year 8 responsibilities
Year 8 pupils are looked up to by the rest of the boarding community. As seniors, they are expected to demonstrate maturity, kindness and integrity. Many are given specific roles within their dorms and are trusted to help guide others, through example and encouragement.
These responsibilities are part of a wider leadership culture that promotes service, community spirit and personal development.
Head Boarders
Each year, a Head Boarder or Head Boarders can be appointed from the Year 8 cohort. These pupils are chosen for their leadership potential, positive attitude and ability to model the school’s core values – kindness, perseverance, awareness, generosity, honesty and independence – within the house.
Head Boarders receive a badge and a clear description of their role. They meet regularly with the Head of Boarding and staff to share ideas and contribute to the life of the boarding house.
Reporting and support
Head Boarders report directly to the Head of Boarding and, when appropriate, the Head. They are supported through regular check-ins and guided in their leadership journey.
Whilst Head Boarders help to look out for others, they are never expected to intervene in disciplinary matters or handle problems alone. They are encouraged to refer any concerns to a member of staff or, if needed, the Deputy Head (Pastoral).
Key responsibilities:
Head Boarders and Ambassadors are expected to:
• be approachable, reliable and kind
• act as role models in behaviour, dress and attitude
• help new boarders feel settled, safe and welcome
• support the running of routines (e.g. dining room, bedtime, chapel)
• assist with house tours and welcome events for new families
• read in assemblies, chapel or school services, when appropriate
• contribute to boarders’ assemblies and special events
• support staff during boarding activities and weekend trips
This ambassadorial role offers Year 8 boarders the chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others, while developing their own confidence, empathy and sense of responsibility. It is both a privilege and a valuable part of their final year at prep school.
Guardians
All pupils whose parents are living abroad, including children of Armed Forces families, must have a guardian based in the UK. This guardian must be either a close family member or friend, or appointed through a reputable guardianship organisation that is accredited by the BSA (Boarding Schools’ Association) or AEGIS (Association for the Education and Guardianship of International Students).
The role of the guardian includes:
• providing accommodation and care during exeat weekends and half terms
• assisting with travel to and from airports at the beginning and end of each term
• acting as the first point of contact in the event of an emergency
• taking an active interest in the child’s life at Sherborne Prep; for example, attending concerts, matches or plays where possible
While Sherborne Prep does not recommend individual guardianship agencies, we can provide a list of approved organisations that meet our safeguarding standards.
If you would like further guidance, please contact:
Mrs Victoria Puzey (Admissions Registrar)
Mrs Sian Brant (Matron)
These members of staff liaise directly with guardianship agencies and are happy to answer any questions or offer support.
Lodgings and host families
Sherborne Prep does not arrange lodgings or host families directly; if, however, a pupil is staying with a host family organised through a guardianship agency, we take care to ensure appropriate arrangements are in place.
We work closely with guardianship organisations to monitor the experience of any boarder staying off campus. This helps us to make sure that pupils remain safe, comfortable and well looked after while they are away from school.
If you have questions or would like further information about guardianship arrangements, please get in touch with our Admissions Registrar or Matron.