Exceptional Prep Boarding Experience

Prep Boarding Experience at Clayesmore

Boarding at Clayesmore Prep offers children a safe, supportive, and exciting home-from-home, where friendships flourish, independence grows, and every pupil is known and valued. Our boarding experience blends structure with fun, giving children the freedom to explore, play, and learn in a caring environment.

A Home Away From Home

Children at Clayesmore Prep live in vibrant boarding houses, each with a dedicated team of Houseparents, matrons, tutors, and nursing staff. These experienced staff members create a nurturing and structured environment where every child feels secure, happy, and supported throughout the day and night.

Daily Life in Prep Boarding

Boarders enjoy a balanced daily routine designed to foster wellbeing, independence, and community:

• Morning: Wake-up, line (roll call), and breakfast
• School Day: Academic lessons, activities, and co-curricular sessions
• Evening: Supper, house line, prep time, games, creative activities, and socialising
• Bedtime: Age-appropriate quiet time and lights out

Weekends are filled with exciting trips and adventures, outdoor exploration, and house activities that help children build friendships, resilience, and confidence.

Activities and Enrichment

Boarding at Clayesmore Prep is packed with opportunities for fun and learning:

• Creative Activities: Baking, arts and crafts, drama, music, and performances
• Outdoor Adventures: Tree climbing with ropes, sports, playground games, and nature walks
• Weekend Trips: Visits to local attractions such as the coast, museums, Dorset Water Park, and Monkey World
• House Events: Film nights, karaoke, barbecues, and seasonal celebrations

This wide variety of activities ensures pupils enjoy a well-rounded experience that develops their social, physical, and creative skills.

Pastoral Care and Wellbeing

Pastoral care is central to the boarding experience. Each child is supported academically, socially, and emotionally by:

• Houseparents and their assistants
• Matrons and residential staff
• Health and Wellbeing Centre staff
• Counsellors, chaplains, and academic tutors

Through this network of care, children learn to manage challenges, make decisions, and grow confidently, knowing support is always available.

Life Skills and Independence

Boarding life helps children develop essential life skills, including:

• Time management and organisation
• Responsibility for personal belongings and shared spaces
• Communication, teamwork, and empathy
• Self-confidence and resilience

By living in a supportive community away from home, children gain a strong sense of belonging, lifelong friendships, and a foundation for future independence.

A Welcoming Community

Clayesmore Prep boarding is inclusive and family-like. Day pupils are fully integrated, participating in routines, activities, and house events, ensuring everyone feels part of the Aubrey House family.