We launched Part Boarding at Mill Hill School last year in response to requests for boarding to be more flexible. Whilst some Schools use the term “flexi-boarding”, we adopted Part Boarding not because it’s inflexible, but because we want to highlight that pupils are joining the boarding community for part of the week to add flexibility to pupils’ and parents’ busy schedules, or to give a more wholesome Mill Hill experience.

Part boarding gives students access to the full academic resources of Mill Hill beyond the normal school day. With supervised evening prep sessions, immediate access to teachers for guidance, and a calm, focused environment, your child can thrive academically without the distractions of commuting or home pressures. This structure helps students develop strong study habits and achieve highest levels of excellence.

At Mill Hill, pastoral care is at the heart of everything we do. Our Boarding Houses provide a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment, where every child is known and valued. Experienced House staff are always on hand to offer guidance, encouragement, and reassurance, helping students build confidence and resilience. Part Boarding allows your child to enjoy this care during the evening whilst remaining affiliated to their Day House (unless they prefer otherwise) so that they enjoy the best of both worlds.

Felix D (Fourth Form) started Part Boarding earlier this academic year. He said:

“I’ve enjoyed Part Boarding as it gives me a better chance to focus on studying and my prep with fewer distractions, but it’s also great to make new friends in the Common Room and to play table tennis with the other boarders. It feels really inclusive, and I like that I can still see my family, remain part of my Day House but benefit from the additional experience during the evening. The food is also great!”

Part Boarders benefit from the full breadth of Mill Hill’s co-curricular programme: sports, music, drama, CCF, without the stress of late-night travel. They can immerse themselves into school life, develop new talents, and form friendships that last a lifetime, all within a community that values integrity and mutual respect. They can also benefit from additional time to use our facilities be it the Sports Hall to play basketball or badminton with friends, extra time in the gym, collaborative study time in the Library or quite time in the Music School for focused practice.

Ollie Z (Upper Sixth) was the first pupil to sign up for Part Boarding initially for one evening, but now for three. He had this to say:

“Part Boarding has really helped my routine: I am already on campus, so it is easy to get to lessons, training sessions, and gym on time. I get into a steady rhythm during those days, which helps me keep up with my schoolwork while still having energy for rugby. It also means I can rest properly after training instead of rushing home which helps with recovery. I have valuable time with teammates and friends, and my friendships have become so much stronger since boarding. Having staff on hand means I can get help and support when I need it. When I am home for the rest of the week, I have time to relax and spend time with my family. It’s the perfect balance.”

If you are interested in Part Boarding for your child, do reach out to Mr Meakin – Assistant Head (Boarding) on jme@millhill.org.uk . He will be happy to arrange a tour or talk in more detail. If you’re already convinced and want to go ahead, please complete this form: Part Boarding Sign-Up Enquiry – Fill in form.