Sixth Form Boarding
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More about life as a Sixth Form boarder.
Choosing where to study A-levels is a major decision. For boys, Sixth Form Boarding at Haberdashers’ Adams offers a unique opportunity to make the most of these important two years, providing an ideal bridge between home and university life. Within a supportive and structured environment, students develop the independence, resilience and confidence needed to thrive beyond school.
We warmly welcome Sixth Form students into our boarding community. Boarders play a vital role in the life of both the school and the boarding house, contributing energy, leadership and experience. As a state boarding school, all pupils including boarders must hold a UK passport or have Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Why Choose Boarding for Sixth Form?
Sixth Form at Adams is about far more than A-level study. Boarding allows students to fully immerse themselves in school life, making the most of a wide range of academic and extra-curricular opportunities. Time that might otherwise be spent travelling to and from school can be used productively – for study, relaxation or participation in activities.
Boarders are often at the heart of school life, taking on leadership roles, joining clubs and teams, and trying new experiences. This involvement builds confidence, independence and a strong sense of belonging.
Life at Beaumaris Hall
The boarding house, Beaumaris Hall, offers an outstanding support network. Structured evening prep helps students develop disciplined study habits, preparing them for the demands of university. Our experienced boarding tutors provide academic guidance and pastoral care, helping students to achieve their full potential.
Living alongside peers creates a shared sense of purpose, particularly during exam periods. Students support one another, building lasting friendships and learning to manage their time, organise their work and stay motivated.
Beaumaris Hall, our senior boarding house, has been designed with Sixth Form students in mind. It features:
- Modern twin bedrooms with en-suite facilities
- Spacious communal areas for relaxing and socialising
- A distinctive American-themed diner
- A vibrant, inclusive boarding community
Boarding life is not just about study – there is also plenty of fun. Staff and students regularly organise activities, events and competitions, creating a positive and relaxed atmosphere.
How to Apply for Sixth Form Boarding
We understand that choosing a Sixth Form boarding school is an important decision, and families often have many questions. We encourage you to get in touch using the enquiry form below to register your interest. We are happy to arrange a visit so you can tour the school and Beaumaris Hall to experience boarding life first-hand.
Key Application Information
- Open Morning: January (Year 11)
- Application window: January – March (Year 11), via our online portal
- Entry requirements: Typically five GCSEs at grade 7 or above
- Supporting evidence: Mock GCSE results (or equivalent)
- Alternative route: Entrance tests available for non-GCSE applicants
- Interviews: Offered to applicants who meet academic criteria
- Offer Holders’ Day: Held in late June following GCSE examinations
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I join as a boarder for Sixth Form only?
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Yes, we welcome new boarders into the Sixth Form. They contribute significantly to the life of the school and the boarding house. As a state funded school we can only offer places to pupils who have a UK passport or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK.
Does a Sixth Form boarding school help prepare for university?
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Yes, Sixth Form boarding is the perfect preparation for life away at university.
Structured evening prep helps students develop disciplined study habits, preparing them for the demands of university. Living alongside peers creates a shared sense of purpose, particularly during exam periods. Students support one another, building lasting friendships and learning to manage their time, organise their work and stay motivated.
How much does Sixth Form boarding cost?
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Please view the current Boarding Fees.
Since no charge is made for the education at Haberdashers’ Adams, boarders pay only for the provision associated with boarding, which makes it an attractive and affordable option for many families.
Sixth Form fees are fixed for two years, so there is no annual increase between Lower Sixth and Upper Sixth. The fees are exempt from VAT.
Do Sixth Form boarders have to take an entrance test?
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All applicants will normally meet our academic entry requirements, but suitability for boarding will also be considered. In all cases, we treat applications individually. Our aim is to offer places to all students who we believe can benefit from a Haberdashers’ Adams Sixth Form education.
Sixth Form candidates require their GCSE mock results to apply. The academic requirement is five GCSEs at grade 7 or above. If not taking GCSEs, an entrance test will be set based on A-level choices.
Why do boarders require an interview?
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We strongly believe every prospective boarder must see the boarding house in person and meet with boarding staff. It is to be their home during term time so it is crucial that they get a feel for the school and for the boarding house in which they will live. Boarders should be suitable for boarding and be able to benefit from the boarding environment. Interviews can also be arranged via Zoom, where a physical meeting is not possible.
What does “suitable for boarding” mean?
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The boarding community is an integral part of Haberdashers’ Adams. Boarders must be capable of living independently within the boarding community. Their behaviour must meet certain standards and individuals with certain needs cannot be catered for.
Are boarders allowed to stay during exeat weekends, half term and holidays?
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No, the school is completely closed to all students during exeat weekends, half term and school holidays. Students return to their families, guardians or other nominated persons.
What do boarders do in the evenings?
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Many extra-curricular activities take place after school. Once back at the boarding house, after free time and dinner, prep takes place, with staff tutors supporting and mentoring prep. Once prep is completed many house activities take place before bedtime. This varies day by day and can include simple food treat nights, playing games, watching TV, or playing sports to more ‘organised’ activities.
What do boarders do at the weekend?
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Weekends are for playing team sport, relaxing, socialising and catching up on prep. There are a wide variety of activities and trips organised by boarding staff throughout each term, such as trips to the cinema, trampoline park, paintballing and cultural activities.
Who looks after the boarders in their house?
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Each house is led by a qualified and experienced Housemaster who is a member of the teaching staff and who lives alongside the pupils with their own family. The Housemaster has overall responsibility for the pupils’ welfare, development and academic work. They manage a team of staff that act in loco parentis to ensure every pupil feels safe, happy and properly cared for.
What happens if my son is ill?
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All students are cared for at the Boarding House by our matrons with a designated sick/isolation room if required. Students are also registered at the local doctor’s surgery on arrival.
