Acceptance dates vary, but start looking for a school more than a year in advance. Late applications are occasionally accepted, as another family may change its plan unexpectedly, opening up a space that may not be filled from a waiting list for that grade. But class sizes are strictly controlled and rooms limited, so don’t expect a late to open space at any single boarding school.
Different boarding schools cater to different needs. Decide whether to send your child to a girls-only, boys-only or gender-mixing boarding school, and whether a single or a mixed religious environment will be most beneficial. Then review a school’s academic specializations, culture and reputation. If possible, speak to others who have attended the school, and visit it with your child.
Most schools are careful about peanut allergies, but asking about any extra needs that your child faces, and be as specific as possible if expert staff must pay attention to your child’s physical or other health challenge, including reduced mobility, attention-deficit, autism-spectrum or behavioural challenges.
Figure out how much it will all cost and how it will fit into your budget. Include the travel cost of holidays to and from school. Apply to three or four schools, rather than pinning all your hopes on a single choice. Once a child is accepted, his or her parents often have about three weeks to finalize the enrolment.
