Boarding

The benefits of boarding

What do the boarders need to bring and Important.

Personal qualities are developed: 

• Confidence
• Independence
• Organisational skills
• Leadership roles
• Responsibility

Inter-personal skills are developed:

• Listening
• Sharing
• Caring

Social skills are developed:

• Fun
• Friendships
• Team spirit
  
  

A boarding evening - what happens?

As the school day draws to a close, the rhythm of boarding life begins. Evenings filled with laughter, playful energy, and a sense of ease that makes our evenings memorable.

6:00pm – Supper

The evening begins with boarders’ supper, a wholesome and hearty meal enjoyed together after an active day.

Menus are shaped by the children themselves, ensuring that favourite dishes often appear, and very little is left on the plates!

After Supper

After supper, there is time to unwind and play. Depending on the season, pupils might be found outdoors; playing laser tag, 40 40, using the tennis courts, or even enjoying a snowball fight under the winter sky.

When the weather calls us inside, the fun continues in the Sports Hall or Mansion, with lively games of dodgeball, waves, or sardines.

On the occasional evening, boarders might venture out to enjoy a local pantomime, bowling or the cinema.

Our boarding staff are ever-present, guiding, encouraging, and often joining in the activities themselves.

8:00pm

At eight o’clock, the tempo softens.

The younger boarders gather in the Snug, a cosy space for hot chocolate, snacks and friendly chatter, while the older pupils prepare for the evening ahead — showers, pyjamas and perhaps a play in the games room.

Morning

The day begins at 7:15am, as the dormitories stir to life. Beds are made, teeth brushed and uniforms donned before heading down to breakfast, a feast of favourites; full English, croissants, cereals & fresh juices.

By 8:25am, the boarders are ready to begin another day, refreshed and full of energy.

Boarding life offers far more than a place to stay, it is about friendship, laughter and shared experience, creating memories that last long after the lights go out.

Boarding Inspection

ISI report 2025

In June, Saint Ronan’s was visited by inspectors from the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) for a thorough and comprehensive review of all aspects of school life.

During their visit, the inspectors observed lessons, engaged in conversations with pupils and reviewed samples of their work. They also met with staff members and the Chair of Governors, observed a range of extra-curricular activities and attended form meetings, chapel services and assemblies. The boarding house, Early Years facilities and learning support areas were all visited as part of the inspection. In addition, the inspectors considered feedback from parents, staff and pupils gathered through pre-inspection questionnaires. They also reviewed the school’s curriculum and other key documentation.

• Download our 2025 RCI Report
• Download our 2022 Inspection Report
• Download our 2017 RCI Report