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UK boarding schools are a long-standing institution. Harrow School and Eton College are two of the most prestigious boarding schools in Britain. Both have produced many British politicians and leaders. It can be a difficult world to navigate if you are thinking of sending your child to a boarding school. What is the background of these cornerstones in UK life?
Boarding schools have their roots in medieval times. It was the only way to get a decent education. You had to join a religious order or become a page for a royal. The Kings School, Canterbury is one of the first boarding schools that still exists today. It was a religious institution that educated young men. The schools were officially disbanded after King Henry VIII disbanded the monasteries, but they returned under a new name. Winchester College, and Oswestry School both date back to 1407 when they were born out of monastic schools.
Each school will have unique strengths and values, so the right one for your child will take some research. Fees and location will also be key deciding factors. Take a look at all the information they should be presenting on their websites. For Websites for schools, go to fsedesign.co.uk/websites-for-schools
The majority of upper-class girls were educated in their homes. Slowly, however, the idea began to shift that an experience outside the home was more beneficial for the child. This reduced distractions and gave them the opportunity to interact with the same social circle that they would be joining when they entered public life and the court.
The rise of the British Empire made this outlook even more relevant. The battle of Waterloo, as is often quoted, was won at Eton because the sons of the upper-class were educated there together just like their fathers and their fathers before them. Many say this is still true today. The boarding school was a way to establish and reinforce the Empire’s ideals and the idea that it brought order and peace to a chaotic world. It provided a stable foundation and taught competition. The students were at home in school, and could be following the footsteps of their elder siblings or even fathers and grandfathers.
A boarding school also provided an environment that was more challenging and educational for children than the home environment. A boarding-school environment allows a child to discover themselves, but also to learn how to work with others. Currently, there are 160 boarding schools in the UK. The legacy continues.
