Boarding

We have been a boarding prep school since 1874 and continue to offer exceptional boarding for UK and international boys.

Essential Preparation for International Pupils

Boys come from all over the world to stay and learn at Lockers Park and contribute to the rich culture of our school.

We warmly welcome boys from overseas who want to gain experience of UK education and culture with the aim of moving on to a UK senior independent school  – read more about our destination schools here.

The culture at our school is vibrant and has the best of British values and experiences. Our international boys are nurtured with bespoke learning programmes to help them make the transition from their own educational system and language. Boys joining Lockers Park from abroad find our school stimulating and welcoming. They settle very quickly into our educational pathway which enables them to apply for their choice of senior schools after they leave at the end of Year 8.

We have also had a significant number of boys from overseas arrive with their parents to join Lockers Park from Pre Prep onwards, with the parents initially living with their son close to the school. Later, their sons may board while their parents return to their home countries to pursue work and other commitments. This enables boys to become accustomed to Lockers Park from an early age and to continue their education with us as a boarder.

Find out more about boarding for international boys here.

Boarding for UK Boys

Many excellent UK senior schools like to see that boys have boarding experience. We offer full, weekly or flexi-boarding to help boys settle into school life away from home.

Find out more about our flexi-boarding for local boys here.

An Exceptional Experience

Since 2021, our House Parents, Mr and Mrs Newman have created an exceptional Prep School boarding experience. The Newmans are supported by our teaching staff who build strong, trusting relationships with the boys – something that proves invaluable for pastoral care and academic guidance alike. More than just overseeing prep or settling bedtime routines, these staff act as daily role models, embodying Lockers Park values.

Drawing on their professional background in golf and sport, Mr and Mrs Newman have brought with them a mindset of discipline, goal-setting, and continuous improvement – qualities that have become central to our boarding culture. On assuming their role as House Parents, Mr and Mrs Newman undertook extensive research to identify the elements that contribute to a successful and supportive boarding environment. This work informed the introduction of the Boarding Pathway, a bespoke programme designed to help boys build independence, resilience, and life skills.

A key feature of this new approach is the Boarding Passport, which sets out seven developmental targets for each year group. These carefully structured goals – such as leading a boarding meeting or organising an event for younger pupils – encourage personal growth, leadership and community spirit. Pupils who complete all their targets are rewarded with an invitation to the annual Boarding Bonanza. Boys earn stars for demonstrating good behaviour, citizenship and kindness – values that align closely with the school’s code of conduct and Lockers Learner Profile. These stars can be exchanged for prizes from the Boarding Box, helping boys to recognise and appreciate their progress.

Even for boys moving on to senior day schools, Lockers Park offers a unique and wonderful opportunity to benefit from this special experience. Friendships forged in the boarding house frequently last a lifetime.

A Smartphone-Free Sanctuary

In line with their commitment to fostering a nurturing and focused environment, Mr and Mrs Newman have introduced a smartphone-free policy, supported by research by psychiatrists. This initiative encourages boys to engage more deeply with each other and participate wholeheartedly in the diverse range of activities available.

By removing the distractions of social media and screen time, we help boys to remain mentally ‘present’ and focused on their studies, friendships and the wide array of exciting events that take place throughout the school calendar.

With a commitment to innovation and a deep understanding of boys’ education, our Boarding House is setting the standard for modern boarding. Contact our admissions team to discuss your son’s boarding pathway.

“Lockers Park gives a well-rounded education that allows time for extra-curricular pursuits – both formal (music, art, drama, sport) and informal (time in the shrubs!).”
Parent Testimonial
“Boarders at the school are happy and confident individuals. The school provides good care for its boarding pupils and nurtures their personal development well.”
Ofsted Boarding Inspection

A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Modern Boarding

“The happiness of the boys is paramount.”
Tatler School Guide