The boarding ethos is central to the Heathfield community. Boarding comes with a built-in social life and enables the development of close and life-long friendships.
Living and working together teaches empathy, respect, independence and self-confidence. And, in the 24/7 boarding environment, learning in the broadest sense never stops. When the school day finishes, there is time for the many co-curricular opportunities and staff are always on hand to help with Prep.
At the weekends, there is a busy and well-structured age-appropriate programme of sports and activities.
Boarding has changed beyond recognition but there are many misconceptions about the meaning of full boarding. Today, flexibility is required to accommodate the many demands and complexities of modern family life. Optional leave weekends are frequent, there are four such weekends in the Michaelmas Term, two in the Lent Term, and three in the Summer Term.
Since September pupils have been able to benefit from additional time at School, if they wish, by the introduction of the optional leave weekends replacing previous Exeats. This is an opportunity for boarders to stay in and experience some wonderful outings and for our day pupils to trial an introduction to boarding.
Education is a partnership between the family and the school. Communication is essential, Heathfield staff are accessible and always ready to provide information, advice and reassurance. Families are encouraged to support school events and to take part in school life. We regularly welcome friends and family to drama productions, concerts and sporting fixtures. Parents are welcome to take their children out for meals.
We believe that the quality of family relationships is enhanced by getting the balance right between school and home on an individual basis. In Forms I and II we offer increased boarding flexibility where needed, and for other year groups, additional flexibility is at the discretion of the Housemistress
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