How a London-Based Family Gained Entry to Top UK Boarding Schools
Securing a place at one of the best private schools in the UK requires more than strong grades — it demands early planning, tailored academic support, and a clear understanding of the admissions process. For families aiming for a boarding school in the UK, especially within the top 100, a well-structured preparation plan can make all the difference.
At William Clarence Education, we work closely with international families to help students not only meet academic expectations but also thrive in areas beyond the classroom. From entrance exams to interviews, and from subject tutoring to developing confidence through extracurricular involvement, we create bespoke programmes that support both academic excellence and personal growth.
In this case study, we share how we helped a young student, whose first language was not English, secure a place at the prestigious Cheltenham Ladies’ College through a carefully designed four-year preparation journey.
From Year 3 to Cheltenham Ladies’ College: A Tailored Path to a Top UK Boarding School
The family approached William Clarence when their daughter was in Year 3, aged 7, about entry at age 11 to a top boarding school. The family’s native language was not English and despite the student being at a good prep school in London, she needed academic support. We worked with the family over four years to put in place a specific programme of preparation for top boarding 11+.
The programme included introducing the family to UK boarding and how it works and each stage of the admissions process. We put in place regular academic assessments to monitor progress and a targeted tuition programme in preparation for entrance exams. Having shortlisted schools that matched the family’s criteria and were suitable for their daughter, we arranged visits and taster days to ensure that boarding was the right route for the student. An important part of our preparation was to familiarise the student with interviews and build her self confidence in preparation.
The family was offered places at two leading schools and was delighted to accept a place at top girls’ boarding school, Cheltenham Ladies College.
How William Clarence Education Supports Entry to the Best Boarding Schools
At William Clarence Education, we provided this London-based family with expert, end-to-end support — from early academic planning to school selection and interview preparation. Our tailored approach helped their daughter gain entry to one of the top UK boarding schools, Cheltenham Ladies’ College.
We understand that gaining a place at the best boarding schools requires more than academic ability. It involves a clear strategy, early preparation, and guidance that aligns with each student’s strengths, ambitions, and academic pathway — whether that's preparing for GCSE, Sixth Form, or A-level entry.
Whether you're just beginning to explore options or targeting competitive 11+, 13+, or 16+ entry points, our consultants work with families in the UK and overseas to:
- Assess academic readiness and identify areas for development
- Build personalised preparation plans aligned with each school’s expectations
- Provide tutoring for entrance exams, GCSE, and A-level subjects
- Guide families through the full admissions process, including interviews and visits
- Recommend top UK boarding schools that are the right fit for the student
If you're considering the best boarding schools for your child, our team is here to help you every step of the way — just as we did for this family.
William Clarence Education works with students from all over the world to secure places at leading boarding schools with a carefully planned timeline of preparation. Contact us today to find out how we can support your family's journey to a top UK boarding school.