A Surrey Boarding & Day School for Girls aged 11–18

Priorsfield Road, Godalming, Surrey, GU7 2RH

Tel: +44 (0)1483 810551

 
Why should I consider sending my daughter to a boarding school?

For many service personnel, taking families with them when they are posted overseas may not be their preferred option. Parents may be concerned about the disruption that their children are likely to experience due to frequent postings, and therefore decide on boarding school in the UK.

 

The Boarding School Allowance (BSA) is provided to enable families to have the continuity of education that is so important for young people, particularly at secondary school level.

 

Boarding school offers a safe, stable environment within which children can thrive. Parents can relax, knowing that their children are happy and well cared for during the formative years of their young lives.

 

From their first day, boarders begin to develop independence. They are expected to look after their own possessions, organise their time effectively and plan their studies carefully. Living with others teaches important life skills: how to co-operate with others, become a good team player, build positive relationships and make the right personal choices. Friendships made can last a lifetime; boarders become adept at supporting others and becoming tolerant of those who may come from a variety of backgrounds and different cultures.

 

Why Prior's Field?

First and foremost, Prior’s Field is about people. It has a special character and ethos which was recognised in the ISI Inspection of March 2011 where inspectors commented that “Rigour, underpinned by kindness, sets the tone of the school”. Our boarders see themselves as members of an extended family where they spend quality time with each other and with the experienced boarding staff who look after them. Relationships are strong and expectations are high. The girls enjoy living and working together in a structured environment which provides plenty of opportunities for independence and fun. The junior boarding house offers continuity of care and staffing throughout years 7 – 11. Pastoral provision is a priority, ensuring that each girl achieves her potential academically.

 

Boarders have an exciting programme of weekend and evening activities to keep them stimulated. Prior’s Field places huge emphasis on building confidence and developing self esteem. For many girls, achievement in activities beyond the classroom is an important way of developing their sense of worth and personal ambition. Staff recognise, encourage and reward participation and success in activities and whole school events.

 

The strength of the boarding community at Prior’s Field is best summed up by one of the girls:

 

“Life in boarding is an exciting adventure. My friends are great, there’s loads to do and the house staff are caring if I have any problems, I love it here.” 

 
Armed Forces Family - One daughter's experience of boarding at Prior's Field

My name is Clare and I started boarding from the age of 12 at Prior’s Field School. I have lived abroad my whole life, and my family decided that my sister and I needed a constant environment  during our GCSEs and A-Levels. We had looked at many other schools that offered boarding in the Surrey area and selected Prior’s Field due to the atmosphere we felt when looking around.

The atmosphere created here is a major part of the school.  It is indescribable; you need to be here to feel it. Settling in was no issue due to the amazing staff. I feel lucky to say I have 2 families; my parents and sisters, and then in boarding where I have lived in both junior and sixth form houses. Both have been filled with adventure and excitement.  However I would be lying if I told you it was constantly rainbows and smiles. There have been arguments and tears, but we are always able to pull through and work things out.

A typical day involves a lot of work in the main building.  I find it amazing how the school changes during the times of 7.00am to 6.00pm and this is when most teachers and day pupils arrive. However, as long as you have no clubs or activities the day ends at 4.10pm, and the fun starts. We tend to have many discussions about being full boarders and we feel that we get the best of life here. We are able to enjoy the weekends like any normal girl would if they lived at home, while always being among friends. Weekend activities are available in the junior household, from Thorpe Park to London Dungeons.  The full boarders can always make suggestions about what they’d like to do. Sixth form are always invited to join them if they wish.

As mobile phones are becoming more and more involved in everyday life, you find you have no issues with keeping in contact with any friends or family. If a friend comes to visit you, the boarding house allows you to go out for meals or stay out for the weekend,  as long as you are given permission from all the adults involved. During exeat I normally stay with a family friend, or with my friends at their houses. During half-term and longer holidays normally return home to see my family, but I tend to come back during the summer for a week or two.

I have been offered a place at Royal Agricultural College in order to further my education after sixth form.

It is impossible to tell you what the best thing has been but the people I have boarded with have made boarding my best life experience so far. I would recommend it to anyone. Boarding has made me become more confident and more accepting of others.

I am scared at the thought of leaving - not for what the future may hold, but due to the idea that this amazing, building filled with exciting and inspirational people, will no longer be with me every day. I am proud and honoured to call it my home.

Armed Forces Discount

Pupils who have a parent serving in the armed forces are eligible for a 10% discount on the fees (20% for 2013 entry onwards). Serving personnel should be aware that they can apply for MOD and foreign office boarding school allowance under certain criteria. This currently allows for a total of £6,074 against boarding fees.

Inspection 2011: Pupils are enthusiastic about boarding and appreciate the support they receive: they feel well cared for and report that they are very happy together."