Belonging at Bradfield

“There’s an undeniable sense of belonging here… and there’s a real feeling of community.”
Talk Education

Belonging at Bradfield begins with being known, valued and encouraged to play a full part in College life. It is found in friendships, shared experiences and the confidence to explore new interests, embrace challenge and discover what you can achieve.

There is more than one way to become part of this vibrant community. Around 75% of pupils board, enjoying the independence, companionship and opportunities of a full boarding experience. Day boarders can have all their meals in College and remain in House until late in the evening with the opportunity to board five nights per term. Our new day provision is perfect for families within the local area seeking a shorter day with more flexibility.

For families looking for an 11-18 journey starting in Year 7, St Andrew’s, our Group prep school, offers entry at 11+. Pupils benefit from the warmth and breadth of a distinctive prep-school education, followed by a smooth transition to Bradfield in Year 9. Around 60% of each St Andrew’s cohort makes that move.

Boarding Life

Boarding life is a natural extension of family life at home; our accommodation and pastoral care are of the highest standard and Bradfield is actively committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children. All pupils are under the care of a Housemaster or Housemistress who serve as their day-to-day mentor and guide, who is responsible for looking after them throughout their time at Bradfield.

Each house also benefits from a dedicated team of Matrons, House Tutors and Academic Tutors, which provides the perfect environment in which to thrive and learn. The infrastructure on offer fosters a true sense of identity and well-being, which allows pupils to take in new information, step outside of their comfort zone and be actively engaged in further learning.

Pupils joining in Year 9 benefit from the dedicated Year 9 boarding house Faulkner’s, making the transition into senior school as smooth as possible. Pupils joining in Year 10 or above, will join one of the 11 senior boarding houses. This classic boarding house system fosters an atmosphere of energy, enthusiasm and belonging.

Day Boarders play a full part in House life, doing everything but sleep each night at school. Most live locally but want the best of both worlds and can now enjoy up to 15 nights a year boarding in House, giving families greater flexibility while their children gain more confidence and independence.

Bradfield’s New Day Option

Bradfield’s new shorter day option offers pupils from the local area the opportunity to enjoy the breadth, challenge and sense of belonging of a Bradfield education while returning home each
evening. Day pupils are fully integrated into the academic, pastoral and co-curricular life of the College.

All pupils joining in Year 9 begin their Bradfield journey together in Faulkner’s. This creates a shared foundation, helping all pupils form friendships, understand the rhythms of College life and embrace new opportunities alongside one another.

From Year 10, day pupils move together into Bridge House (opening September 2027). Under the care of their Housemaster/
mistress, Bridge House pupils will take part in House competitions, have social events, leadership opportunities and experience all the Bradfield traditions that create identity
and belonging. The House provides a welcoming base during the day, alongside dedicated pastoral care, individual tutoring and spaces for pupils to work, relax and spend time with friends.