Northbourne Park welcomes international pupils for one month, one term or longer. With around 50 boarders at any one time, from across Europe and beyond, the school's international community is central to its character.
Why Northbourne Park for international boarding?
Northbourne Park is a small school. That matters more for international boarders than for almost any other group. Staff know not just your child, but their friends, their interests and how they are settling.
|
A home-from-home
Around 50 boarders at any one time. The size means everyone knows everyone, staff and pupils alike.
|
|
English throughout
English is spoken in lessons, during the school day, and boarding common areas. Regular Language Lunches pairinternational pupils with English-speaking classmates.
|
|
Real friendships with local families
The Boarding Pass system allows boarders to invite day pupils to stay overnight. Many of these friendships extend to weekends and holidays with local families, providing additional opportunities for cultural immersion.
|
|
The same ethos, day and evening
Outdoor learning, genuine relationships, limited screen time — the school’s values continue into the boarding house. Not just a place to sleep.
|
|
No compulsory exeats
Children who stay for the full term or longer get the most from their time here, including deeper friendships, better language progress, a stronger sense of belonging. For parents overseas, it also removes the complexity of mid-term travel and guardian arrangements.
|
Three pathways
International pupils join Northbourne Park through one of three routes. The right choice depends on your child’s age, language background and educational goals.
|
English system
Children join standard British curriculum classes alongside English-speaking pupils. All lessons are in English. English language support is provided throughout, with timetabled EAL lessons for older pupils and in-class support for younger children. Cambridge English examinations (KET, PET, FCE) are available. Suitable for children aged 8 to 14 (Year 3 to Year 9). Available from one month upwards.
Find out more |
|
Section Française Bilingue
For French-speaking pupils following the French national curriculum (CNED) within a British prep school. Pupils study French core subjects alongside English-language lessons and shared activities with British and international peers. Cambridge English examinations available alongside CNED qualifications. Entry at CM2, 6e, 5e and 4e. The recommended route for French-speaking children with little or no English, or for children whose home school requires them to follow the French national curriculum in order to progress to the next year.
Find out more |
|
Advanced Programme
A selective programme for high-ability French-speaking pupils at 5e level with a strong command of English. Pupils study in both the English system and the SFB simultaneously, following Common Entrance, CNED and FCE courses on a personalised timetable. Admission is at the Headmaster’s discretion following assessment. One year minimum.
Find out more |
Compare all pathways in detail
|
Flexible stays
International pupils may join for one month, one term or one year or longer. There are no fixed intake windows; we work with families to find a start date that suits them.
| One month |
The shortest term-time stay, usually June to July. Full curriculum and boarding routine. |
| One term |
Build lasting friendships and make measurable progress in English. |
| One year or longer |
The fullest experience. Formal reports and experience the complete curriculum. Common Entrance preparation available for Years 7 and 8. |
| Summer |
Summer Immersion Programme (5–7 weeks, June) and English Summer Adventure Camp (2 weeks, July) for shorter introductions to school life. |
Course options and lengths in full