Pastoral Care

Boarding at Burford School has an excellent reputation for strong pastoral care, through which our students feel safe, supported and happy. Our diverse community of boarders, from the UK and around the world, thrive in the family atmosphere and develop strong relationships with each other. They are supported by a dedicated team of staff, all of whom are expertly trained in residential education, pastoral care and safeguarding.

Residential staff, who live on-site, are always available to offer care, guidance and support to our students. They work alongside non-residential staff, many of whom are teachers at the day school. Careful attention is given to the welfare, academic progress and social development of each student. Our medical lead, supported by the local GP surgery, oversees the healthcare needs of all boarders, while our housekeepers ensure that rooms are kept tidy and uniforms are always freshly laundered. Home-cooked meals are provided in-house for breakfast and dinner throughout the week, with brunches and Sunday roasts enjoyed at the weekend.

Boarders enjoy a wide variety of evening activities, from baking to bingo, and are encouraged to join local clubs and teams. At weekends, pupils make the most of opportunities to explore the area with excursions to local towns and attractions, regularly visiting Blenheim, Cheltenham and Oxford. Highlights of the year include our Christmas feast, Leavers’ Weekend and our annual residential trip.

Welcoming boarders to Burford has been part of village life for over 450 years, and we are proud of our strong ties with the local community. The local church runs a dedicated youth group for boarders, and local councillors regularly invite Burford students to participate in community decision-making. Burford boarders are supported not only by the staff they live with, but also by the wider school community and their neighbours in this beautiful corner of the Cotswolds.

For more information about boarding at Burford School, please call 01993 823283 or email boarding@burford.oxon.sch.uk