Boarding

Founded as a boarding prep school, we are proud of our approach to boarding and believe it is one of the school’s strengths. A child’s boarding journey at Lockers Park is designed to prepare them to be independent and honourable members of an active community. This important introduction to boarding allows the boys to learn to live and work together while fully enjoying their childhood.

Boarding at Lockers Park is perfect preparation for senior boarding schools. For boys moving onto senior day schools, we also believe that Lockers Park offers a unique and wonderful opportunity to benefit and learn from this special experience. Friendships forged in the boarding house frequently last a lifetime.

Boarding in the Modern World: A Fresh Perspective at Lockers Park

In an era where education must evolve to meet the changing needs of young people and their families, boarding schools have a unique opportunity to reimagine what residential life can offer. At Lockers Park, the Boarding House has undergone a dynamic transformation since 2021 under the leadership of our dedicated House Parents, Mr and Mrs Newman.

Drawing on their professional background in golf and sport, Mr and Mrs Newman brought with them a mindset of discipline, goal-setting, and continuous improvement—qualities that have become central to the new boarding culture at Lockers Park. Their mission was twofold: to reinvigorate the Boarding House for current pupils and to encourage a wider range of boys to experience the many benefits of boarding life.

Crucial to their success was a thorough data-driven approach. 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. The Pathway also offers an accessible and exciting introduction to boarding for Flexi and non-boarders, providing them with meaningful opportunities to engage with the boarding community.

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, a much-anticipated celebration of their achievements.

The Boarding House culture has also been rejuvenated through a vibrant events programme. Creative and inclusive activities like House of Hogwarts, cooking competitions, treasure hunts, The Battle of the Boys, and seasonal themed nights have helped to generate enthusiasm and a real sense of camaraderie. Participation is strong, not only among boarders but across the entire school community.

Further innovations include a refreshed reward system. Boys earn boarding 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 much-loved Boarding Box, adding a tangible and exciting element to the boarding experience.

Dedicated Teaching Staff: Role Models and Mentors

A key strength of boarding at Lockers Park lies in the staff who care for the boys each evening and overnight. The Boarding House is run by members of the teaching staff, who not only provide continuity in academic support but also model the values and behaviours we seek to instil in our pupils.

This consistent presence of teaching staff builds 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 the Lockers Learner Profile attributes and the wider school values in everything they do. They guide boys through challenges with compassion, wisdom, and humour, giving our pupils a living example of how to grow into kind, principled and capable young men.

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 within the Boarding House. This initiative encourages boys to engage more deeply with each other and participate wholeheartedly in the diverse range of activities available.

Research supports the benefits of limiting smartphone use among adolescents. Studies show that reducing screen time improves attention, emotional well-being, and interpersonal relationships, while also reducing anxiety and promoting better sleep. A 2021 study in Frontiers in Psychiatry linked smartphone overuse in teenagers with poorer cognitive performance and increased mental health challenges, while other research has shown that limited screen use fosters stronger peer bonds and greater academic focus.

By removing the distractions of social media and screen time, Lockers Park provides a calm, community-focused environment in which boys are free to be present, creative, and connected—essential traits for developing independence and strong social skills.

Listen here for behind-the-scenes of modern day boarding

The benefits of boarding at Lockers Park

• Building camaraderie and long-lasting friendships
• A programme of fun events and activities catering for all tastes
• Bright and welcoming boarding accommodation
• Full-time academic support
• A highly-regarded team of staff dedicated to making the boys happy
• A small, family community where everyone counts.

We are proud to share that 82% of pupils board at least once within their first term—a powerful testament to the welcoming, engaging environment they have created. Feedback from parents has been overwhelmingly positive, with heartfelt testimonials highlighting how much pupils and their families value the boarding experience.

As we look to the future, boarding at Lockers Park will continue to evolve. With a commitment to innovation and a deep understanding of the modern child, our Boarding House is not only keeping pace with the times—it is setting the standard for what boarding in the modern world can and should be.