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September 30, 2013updated 11 Jan 2016 2:36pm

Best boarding schools

By Spear's

Author: Peter Matthews

When it comes to choosing which boarding school to send your son or daughter to, the many options can make it a daunting task. With several boasting years of history in top-quality teaching, an exceptional track record in academic success and enviable locations in the UK, the decision can be a difficult one.

While our pick of the best boarding schools share a varied curriculum, excellent teaching and beautiful surroundings, not to mention illustrious alumni, they all offer their own individuality and values.

Music is of high importance at Wycombe Abbey School where pupils are encouraged to play at least one instrument. As a result, many girls leave the school having achieved the highest possible grade in the Associated Music Board and LAMDA Examinations. St Swithun’s School is also very creative and boasts a 600-seat auditorium in addition to a music school.

Meanwhile the full programme of weekend activities at Cheltenham Ladies’ College – including horse riding, mountain biking and canoeing – make this boarding school the perfect choice for the go-getting, adventurous type. Exploring is also to be had at Headington School, which takes pupils than 20 curriculum-based trips overseas a year.

For boys with Oxbridge firmly in their sights, an education at Britain’s oldest boarding school Eton College – famed for educating 19 prime ministers – could be a match, or that at ancient rival Harrow School, in north-west London.

Christianity is of great importance at co-educational establishment Charterhouse School, which is led by Revd John Witheridge. Radley College, set up by Reverend William Sewell in 1847, also maintains its Christian routes with daily chapel for the whole school.

Those with a passion for philanthropy could fit in well at co-educational Brighton College, which in addition to academic success encourages pupils to be part of the vibrant city’s society by helping at local charities and visiting schools in poorer areas.

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Meanwhile, Winchester College’s focus on the development of close relationships and flexible approach to examinations could be appealing to sensitive souls seeking success.

Read on to find out more about the ten best boarding schools.

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