Cothill House

  • Founded: 1870
  • Address: Cothill - Oxfordshire, England (Map)
  • Tel: Show Number

The boarding experience

We want every boy to enjoy boarding life at Cothill. This is why we now also offer day or 'a bit of both' places in the younger years when boys can settle into Cothill at a pace that suits them. It usually doesn't take long before they are begging their parents to let them join their boarding friends!

Cothill Juniors (Years 4 & 5)

Adam Pearson describes the Bowlers experience for the Year 4 & 5 boys
Welcome to Bowlers, a place of comfort and care, where junior boys in Year 4 and 5 embark on their exciting boarding journey under the nurturing guidance of the Pearson family. At Bowlers, we understand the importance of providing the best possible start to boarding life, and that is why we are dedicated to creating a warm and supportive family environment.

At the heart of Bowlers, Adam and Trina Pearson (Houseparents) with their 6-year-old son Noah and 4-year-old daughter Isla, bring a sense of home that's both comforting and familiar. And of course, there's Murphy, the Labrador who is always eager to join in on the fun!

Sergio Perello, our dedicated Assistant Houseparent, is here to provide additional support and care, creating a strong and loving support network for your son. At Bowlers, we're not just a team; we are a family.

As a purpose-built boarding house, Bowlers is designed to make your son feel as close to home as possible. We don't claim to replace home, but we aim to provide a space where every boy feels cherished, safe, and secure. Bowlers is more than just a boarding house; it's an extension of our family and a place where your son can flourish.

But that's not all. Bowlers serves as a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of school life, a sanctuary where your son can rest and recharge, as well as have a lot of fun! It is the perfect stepping stone in preparing the boys for the transition to full boarding as seniors in the main school.

We look forward to welcoming you to Bowlers, where your son's boarding experience begins with care, warmth, and the promise of a compassionate family environment.

Main House (Years 6 & 7)

Amelia Baker introduces the Year 6 boarding experience
Year 6 is a time of transition and balance. As the oldest of our Juniors, life in the Sixes reflects a very Cothill ethos of work hard, play hard. As expectations rise, the boys learn to become more independent and to lead by example - whether it’s in the classroom, on the games pitch, or up in dorms. Equally, adventure and having fun drives much of what we do. Through both on and off site activities, the boys learn to be kind and tolerant to each other, all while making lifelong friendships.

Weekends are a particularly great time to be at Cothill. Alongside the usual offered activities of climbing, BMX, swimming, DT and woodwork, regular trips are organised by Houseparents. These can range from laser tag, visits to the zoo, trampolining and the cinema. There is always something new to do and try!

As the Sixes Houseparent, it is my role to ensure that this balance is kept. With the help of my Assistant Houseparent, Christopher Page, we support the boys as they navigate this important year. Whether it’s being a sympathetic ear after a tough day, a party planner for evenings and weekends, or someone to simply chat to after a busy day - the Houseparents make the boys their priority.

The boys are organised into dorms of five to eight, and are very quickly settled into a smooth routine. After evening activities, the boys return to their own games room, where films, snooker, and conversation are all on offer. They also take responsibility for organising their laundry and tidying their dorms, before settling down for quiet reading and a (well deserved) good night’s sleep!

Senior (Year 8)

The Year 8 boarding experience
Welcome to the heart of the school, our Year 8 boarding house, where boys embark on a journey of growth, camaraderie, and unforgettable adventures. Through our vibrant door and up the stairs, the boys start making the transition towards Senior school whilst having fun and forging lasting friendships.

In this bustling hub, boys are encouraged to develop the indispensable life skills of organisation, teamwork and responsibility within a relaxed and supportive family environment. Be it energetic sports showdowns, Fifa contests on the Xbox, exuberant debates, or riotous birthday celebrations, there's never a dull moment in this home away from home.

Yet, amidst all the excitement, our boarding house offers a nurturing sanctuary. Here, every boy is a member of a close-knit family. The caring guidance of Houseparent Tom Bennett and his team ensures that the boys thrive academically, emotionally, and socially. We believe in empowering them with added responsibility and nurturing leadership skills that will shape their future.

Year 8 is a crucial year in so many ways. Our ethos is centred around achieving a balance of work and play and the boys leaving us prepared and eager for the next step in their educational journey.

So, welcome to the Year 8 boarding house, where the joys of adolescence are celebrated, challenges are embraced, and the journey to becoming well-rounded young men is embarked upon. This is not just a place to live; it's a place to grow, learn, and create memories.

Weekend Activities

Boys have lessons on Saturday mornings and there are usually sports matches on Saturday afternoons.

At the weekends, the boys can choose to take part in a variety of activities. With extensive school grounds, top facilities and equipment, the possibilities are endless. Whether the boys fancy a kick about, like building dens in the woods, swimming in the pool, or crafting a sword and shield to re-enact their favourite battle, there is always something to do.

The options don’t stop there. On top of all the onsite activities, the boys have the opportunity to go out on a range of excursions

2026-05-01T00:01:02+04:00