"Boarders commented that the boarding experience [at Summer Fields] helps them to have confidence in their abilities, because they are well-supported and encouraged by staff and their peers."

ISI Inspection Report 2022

One of Summer Fields' greatest strengths is our approach to boarding.  Boarding is a valuable experience which teaches children independence and the social skills that they need to live in a community.  The caring, supportive atmosphere at Summer Fields ensures that the boys feel happy, secure and relaxed.  It also allows for time in which to become fully involved in the myriad of extras and activities on offer.  The boys have the opportunity to take part in musical groups, drama groups and sports teams together, as well as attend lectures and debates, and many other things together, safe in the knowledge that they are on the doorstep of their Lodge.

 

Boys are organised into Lodges according to age: all the new eight-year-olds board together in Borva.  As they grow up they move to new Lodges more suited to their age.

• Borva (Year 4) – Charlie and Kirsty Langley
• Savage’s (Year 5) – Ben and Hannah Hudson
• Upper House (Year 6) – Miss Belinda Millar
• Front Lodge (Year 7) – Jack and Olivia Carroll
• Mayfield (Year 7 & Year 8) – Pete and Lindsay Dickinson
• Cottage (Year 8) – Max and Rachelle Jones

The Lodges are friendly, family-run boarding houses, each with its own particular character.  Since 2018 there has been an extensive programme of modernisation and renovation across the Lodges to create spaces which feel like a home from home, equipped with everything a boy needs.

Lodgeparents welcome the boys home each evening, and there is always a buzz of activity in a homely atmosphere. Main meals are eaten in the dining room, but there are always snacks, drinks and fresh fruit available in the Lodges. Most Lodges have a resident Gapper Matron - always young and enthusiastic and ready to turn her hand to any game, activity or domestic issue.

The bigger Lodges have a Lodge Assistant who lives in a flat in the building. As well as that, all Lodges are allocated members of staff who come in once a week to give the Lodgeparents some respite and provide the boys with entertainment and guidance.

With the great majority of staff living on site, there is always something going on.  As well as regular activities, there are many outings and adventure trips for them to sign up to; equally the boys can just make use of the outstanding facilities. Supervised swimming sessions in the pool or a variety of games in the Sports Hall. There are squash and fives courts, pool tables, table football and many table tennis tables, and in the summer, the glorious 70 acres of grounds (with the outdoor pool) are well used.

"Boarding lodges are excellent, best in class..."

Current Parent

"Boarders commented that the boarding experience made them more effective learners because it built their confidence and supported them."

ISI Inspection Report 2022

Click the sub menu to find out about boarding life in the different Lodges.

This is prep school boarding at its finest."

Good Schools Guide 2023