Join us at our next College Open Morning on Saturday 30 January 2027 or at our next Prep Open Morning on Saturday 6 February 2027.
Anthony is Deputy Head (Admissions) at Brighton College, where he has worked for over 20 years as a mathematics teacher, Housemaster and Deputy Head of Lower School. His extensive pastoral, academic and leadership experience gives him a deep understanding of what helps pupils thrive at school. As Deputy Head (Admissions), Anthony brings particular expertise in independent school admissions, British boarding education and supporting families in choosing the right school.
Neither day school nor boarding school is inherently better. Each offers different advantages, and the right choice will depend on your child’s personality, confidence, needs and family circumstances.
What are the benefits of boarding school?
Boarding can help pupils develop independence, resilience and strong friendships.
Because boarders spend more time at school, they often become deeply involved in school life and have easy access to activities such as sport, music, drama, clubs and societies. At Brighton College, families can explore more about boarding life and the wider opportunities available beyond the classroom.
Boarding can also help pupils learn to manage their time, organise themselves and take greater responsibility for day-to-day life. The sense of community can be particularly strong, with pupils sharing routines, activities and experiences outside lessons as well as in the classroom.
However, boarding will not suit every child. Some pupils find time away from home more difficult and may prefer the familiarity and routine of returning home each day.
What are the benefits of day school?
Day pupils remain closely connected to family life while still benefiting from a structured school environment.
Returning home each evening can provide familiarity and balance, and parents may feel more closely involved in their child’s everyday experience.
For some children, this arrangement offers the reassurance of home alongside the academic and co-curricular opportunities of school. Families considering Brighton College can explore more about daily life at the school, as well as our home-to-school transport options.
Potential drawbacks can include longer daily travel and, depending on the school, fewer opportunities to participate in evening activities or become as immersed in school life.
Is weekly boarding a good compromise?
For some families, weekly boarding can offer a useful middle ground.
Pupils may stay at school during the working week and return home for weekends, giving them access to the independence, friendships and activities associated with boarding while maintaining regular time with family.
Brighton College offers a true weekly boarding model, with pupils boarding from Monday to Friday and spending three nights at home each week. With no Saturday school, this allows families to enjoy regular time together while pupils benefit from a more immersive school experience during the week.
Ultimately, the right choice is the one that gives your child the best chance to feel happy, supported and confident, both at school and at home.
Families considering Brighton College can explore our boarding options, day pupil experience or contact the Admissions team to discuss which arrangement may suit their child best.
Anthony is Deputy Head (Admissions) at Brighton College, where he has worked for over 20 years as a mathematics teacher, Housemaster and Deputy Head of Lower School. His extensive pastoral, academic and leadership experience gives him a deep understanding of what helps pupils thrive at school. As Deputy Head (Admissions), Anthony brings particular expertise in independent school admissions, British boarding education and supporting families in choosing the right school.