The Boarding Schools’ Association has welcomed a rise in boarding pupils at independent schools for the second year running.
The rise, published in a survey by the Independent Schools’ Council today, shows there are now over 70,000 boarding pupils at UK private schools.
It’s the first time the level has topped 70,000 for 11 years and complements strong demand for state school boarding where there are over 5,000 pupils.
BSA National Director Robin Fletcher said the ISC figures showed parents increasingly recognised the value of a boarding education for their children.
“We welcome these figures which clearly demonstrate the strength and quality of the boarding sector. Hundreds of boarding schools across the UK work tirelessly to provide an all-round education for students that’s second to none and admired by parents worldwide.
“To grow boarding numbers for the second year running is an amazing achievement. It shows for the right student boarding offers fantastic opportunities and a great experience.”
Alongside increased demand for senior and sixth form boarding, northern schools have also enjoyed a rise in boarding number, another indication that the sector is thriving. As a consequence BSA member schools are investing in this area to cope with demand.
Andrew Johnson, Headmaster of Stonyhurst School said: “Stonyhurst really is a northern boarding success story. Pupil numbers are up by 10% in the past nine years and that increased income has enabled us to invest in upgrading and building new facilities including a new boarding house and catering block.
“Future plans include another new boarding house by 2017.”
