Boarding

Full-time boarding provides a comprehensive living and learning experience during term time, fostering independence and a strong sense of community among students.

Weekly boarding offers the balance of immersive school involvement during the week with the comfort of family time during weekends.

Occasional boarding allows pupils to stay overnight when they need and want to. It is designed to accommodate busy families, removing extended travelling times to create a work/life balance, providing a ‘home from home’ for your child to maximise opportunities at school, whilst relaxing in a safe and caring environment with their friends.

Our boarding houses have recently undergone an extensive project of redevelopment, transforming the stately buildings into state-of-the-art residences complete with everything young people could want for 21st century living, and learning.

Social spaces are bright and airy, kitchens are spacious and stylish, forming the heart of each house and providing the ideal setting for bake-offs, relaxed weekend brunches and evening activities.

There are quiet areas for prep, modern study bedrooms range from singles to twins and dormitories in our younger, co-educational boarding house.

Each house is led by an experienced and dedicated team of pastoral staff and overseen by the Housemaster or Housemistress. Our dedicated Head of Boarding leads on all residential activities, and ensures a St Leonards boarding experience is the best available.

Weekends and evenings after prep are spent participating in house activities and trips, whether it’s a sunset walk on the beach, basketball in the sports hall, karaoke night or marshmallows toasted over the fire under the stars. Scoops of ice cream from the gelateria nextdoor are a favourite treat. 

Excursions can range from a day of culture and shopping in Edinburgh to watersports, ice skating or treetops adventures. Day pupils are welcome to join house trips, too!

We do not have exeat weekends at St Leonards, however boarders are welcome to go home at weekends or stay with day families in the local area with permission from parents.

During the week, pupils eat at Restaurant 1877, our on campus dining hall that provides a huge variety of healthy, nutritious, and tasty meals. On weekends, they can also enjoy home cooked meals at their boarding house.