Junior Boarding Schools can be hard to find, but we have done all of the research so you don’t have to! Read on to learn more about Best Junior Boarding Schools.
Why choose a junior boarding school?
Imagine a nurturing environment where young students not only learn academic subjects but also life skills, all while living away from home. This is the essence of a junior boarding school. Catering typically to students in grades six through nine, these institutions are designed to prepare adolescents for the rigors of high school and beyond, providing a unique blend of academic rigor, personal development, and community living.
Foundational Academic and Personal Growth
Junior boarding schools offer a structured academic curriculum that challenges students to excel in a variety of subjects, from the traditional core areas like math, science, and language arts to specialized courses in technology, arts, and foreign languages. The small class sizes ensure personalized attention from teachers who are often highly qualified and passionate about their subjects. But it's not just the academics; these schools are keenly focused on developing well-rounded individuals. Through a combination of leadership opportunities, extracurricular activities, and community service, students gain valuable life skills that foster independence, resilience, and teamwork.
Community Living Experience
Living on campus is perhaps one of the most transformative aspects of the junior boarding school experience. Students live in dormitories or residential houses with their peers, which helps them develop deep bonds and a sense of belonging. This communal living situation encourages students to become more adaptable, learn conflict resolution skills, and respect diverse perspectives. It’s a place where lifelong friendships are forged and social skills are honed.
Supportive Environment
The supportive environment at junior boarding schools extends beyond just academic help. Schools provide comprehensive pastoral care through a dedicated staff that includes house parents, counselors, and mentors. This support system ensures that students feel secure and valued, which is crucial for their emotional and psychological development. The inclusive atmosphere helps students from various backgrounds to integrate smoothly and thrive.
Moreover, these schools often offer robust extracurricular programs that include sports, music, theater, and clubs. Such activities are not merely pastimes but integral parts of the educational philosophy, aiming to develop students' physical health, creativity, and leadership skills.
Preparation for Future Challenges
Ultimately, junior boarding schools aim to equip students with the skills and confidence needed to tackle the challenges of high school and beyond. The blend of rigorous academics, community living, and extracurricular engagement creates a well-rounded experience that builds strong foundations for future academic and personal success. Parents often notice a marked improvement in maturity, self-discipline, and independence in their children after attending a junior boarding school.
In summary, junior boarding schools are not just about advanced academics; they are breeding grounds for developing young adolescents into capable, confident, and caring individuals. They offer a unique educational experience that combines learning with personal growth, all within a supportive community setting.
Top rated Junior Boarding Schools in the World
Lakefield College School
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Copperfield International School Verbier
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Epsom College in Malaysia
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Paris Saint-Germain Academy USA Pro Academy
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Préfleuri International Alpine School
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Newington College
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THINK Global School
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Keystone Academy
Keystone Academy is an innovative and unique school in China and the world.
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IMG Academy
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College Alpin Beau Soleil
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St. Stephen’s School Rome
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Institut Montana Zugerberg
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Swiss International School Dubai
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Humboldt-Institut
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ENSR International School
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British International School, Phuket
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Paris Saint-Germain Academy Pro Greater Geneva
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St. Joseph’s Institution International
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Ecole d’Humanité
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Institut auf dem Rosenberg
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IB Boarding Schools
US Curriculum Boarding Schools
British Curriculum Boarding Schools
Tips for Choosing a Boarding School
Parent and Student Reviews
- I am very happy with choosing this place. Great approach, very nice atmosphereWritten December 12, 2023
- When I remember my time at the Humboldt Boarding School in Lindenberg, I think of competent teachers and a headmistress who always took care of us. I always knew that I would be supported with any problem.Written April 26, 2023
- One of Ranum Efterskole’s greatest philosophies states that the best way to learn is to experience.Written February 25, 2023
- The reason why we chose Ranum Efterskole College was simple: we could find a spirited, stimulating and supportive community in Ranum, that are not always treasured in our local education system. The most pleasant of it all is seeing the relaxing smiles, confident faces, healthy bodies, and learn all about the many adventures … including our son & daughter, who are 8821km away from us.Written February 25, 2023
- Ranum Efterskole College cannot be described in brief! We are so impressed with the great work that was done for our girls. All teachers and staff are at work from day one, they are all so happy, positive and helpful, and it lasted all year long. I am wildly impressed by the contact group teacher who took good care of our girls. I was at ease, even though we live abroad.Written February 25, 2023
- I have really benefitted from being in the international programme, which gave me an opportunity to experience many different cultures first hand, improve myself academically and develop my social skills at a completely different level. REC has shown me how diversity and an open mind can result in a strong community.Written February 25, 2023
- I looked at many different international schools across Europe and came across the website for Ranum Efterskole College. The uniqueness of the school really caught my eye. I felt that it offered opportunities that no other school could.Written February 25, 2023
- The videos you have all made, the activities you have thought of and the ability to keep the Ermitage community upbeat, happy and engaged as learners during this time has been amazing. My daughter has continued to be motivated to learn and keep up with her lessons and school work, despite the new way of working. This is thanks to all the efforts of your teaching team and the previous work that you have done with her to help her to grow as an individual (not just academically).”Written February 25, 2023
- NLCS Jeju doesn’t expect children to have outcomes from every experience. Instead, they look for happiness and satisfaction. Children respond well to this philosophy. My daughter became more active, positive and engaged. She feels safe and comfortable with teachers always there for her and supporting her to become a better person.Written February 25, 2023
- My son is an only child and, before entering into the boarding programme, he was very immature. He has learnt to be more independent and thoughtful – now he is much more mature and even takes care of his parents.Written February 25, 2023
- I am so grateful for all the opportunities available to students at NLCS Jeju. Through Bryant and after-school activities, I was introduced to sports like badminton and community service programmes like Angel House orphanage visits, and through various societies, I was able to explore the world of dance and become involved in interesting Mathematics. What excited me the most was being able to start my own dance performance project with friends, and through directing this Project MAUM, I gained invaluable experiences not only in choreography but also in creating theatre, editing music, combining different art forms and collaborating with various people.Written February 25, 2023
- NLCS Jeju has a great tradition of House Competition where children learn teamwork and leadershipWritten February 25, 2023
- I am very happy with choosing this place. Great approach, very nice atmosphereWritten December 12, 2023
- When I remember my time at the Humboldt Boarding School in Lindenberg, I think of competent teachers and a headmistress who always took care of us. I always knew that I would be supported with any problem.Written April 26, 2023
- One of Ranum Efterskole’s greatest philosophies states that the best way to learn is to experience.Written February 25, 2023
- The reason why we chose Ranum Efterskole College was simple: we could find a spirited, stimulating and supportive community in Ranum, that are not always treasured in our local education system. The most pleasant of it all is seeing the relaxing smiles, confident faces, healthy bodies, and learn all about the many adventures … including our son & daughter, who are 8821km away from us.Written February 25, 2023
- Ranum Efterskole College cannot be described in brief! We are so impressed with the great work that was done for our girls. All teachers and staff are at work from day one, they are all so happy, positive and helpful, and it lasted all year long. I am wildly impressed by the contact group teacher who took good care of our girls. I was at ease, even though we live abroad.Written February 25, 2023
- I have really benefitted from being in the international programme, which gave me an opportunity to experience many different cultures first hand, improve myself academically and develop my social skills at a completely different level. REC has shown me how diversity and an open mind can result in a strong community.Written February 25, 2023
- I looked at many different international schools across Europe and came across the website for Ranum Efterskole College. The uniqueness of the school really caught my eye. I felt that it offered opportunities that no other school could.Written February 25, 2023
- The videos you have all made, the activities you have thought of and the ability to keep the Ermitage community upbeat, happy and engaged as learners during this time has been amazing. My daughter has continued to be motivated to learn and keep up with her lessons and school work, despite the new way of working. This is thanks to all the efforts of your teaching team and the previous work that you have done with her to help her to grow as an individual (not just academically).”Written February 25, 2023
- NLCS Jeju doesn’t expect children to have outcomes from every experience. Instead, they look for happiness and satisfaction. Children respond well to this philosophy. My daughter became more active, positive and engaged. She feels safe and comfortable with teachers always there for her and supporting her to become a better person.Written February 25, 2023
- My son is an only child and, before entering into the boarding programme, he was very immature. He has learnt to be more independent and thoughtful – now he is much more mature and even takes care of his parents.Written February 25, 2023
- I am so grateful for all the opportunities available to students at NLCS Jeju. Through Bryant and after-school activities, I was introduced to sports like badminton and community service programmes like Angel House orphanage visits, and through various societies, I was able to explore the world of dance and become involved in interesting Mathematics. What excited me the most was being able to start my own dance performance project with friends, and through directing this Project MAUM, I gained invaluable experiences not only in choreography but also in creating theatre, editing music, combining different art forms and collaborating with various people.Written February 25, 2023
- NLCS Jeju has a great tradition of House Competition where children learn teamwork and leadershipWritten February 25, 2023
Summary
Junior boarding schools provide a unique blend of rigorous academics, personal development, and community living, preparing young students for high school and beyond. These institutions foster independence, resilience, and a deep sense of community, making them an excellent choice for holistic education.