Boarding Prep Schools

Bede's is an independent, co-educational day and boarding school with boarding options for boys and girls aged 9+ (Year 5). Bede's have two stunning sites - the Preparatory School; by the sea in Eastbourne, and the Senior School; in the heart of the Sussex countryside.

We pride ourselves on discovering and developing the talents of each and every pupil. Bede's is a school where every girl and boy is encouraged to be the best that they can be, and they are empowered to enjoy their learning.

Bede's is a colourful and busy place, with lots of energy and a delightful rhythm. We are welcoming, kind and ambitious for all of our pupils. We encourage each and every individual to develop their passions, seek new horizons and achieve their potential. 

Boarding Prep Schools in East Sussex

Bede's Prep School offers full, weekly and flexi-boarding options as well as day boarding. Bede's Prep has one boarding house - 'Meads End' which provides the perfect setting for pupils to take advantage of the activities and facilities on offer at Bede's Prep School as well as the wonderful seafront location. 

Here is a summary of our options:

Full Boarding - This option allows pupils to take advantage of the programme of weekend activities, as well as the weekday activities.

Weekly Boarding - Our Weekly Boarders stay at Meads End during the school week and return home on Friday evenings, returning to School on Sunday evening or Monday morning.

Flexi-Boarding - Along with the weekly boarding option, flexi-boarding is perfect for those with a busy family life. Pupils can stay a couple of nights during the school week - ideal if they have early weekend fixtures to get to.

About our Boarding House

Meads End is a cosy, comfortable home based on the Eastbourne coast. We are lucky to overlook the beach and the sea, are at the foot of the South Downs and just a short walk from Beachy Head. We are situated directly opposite the Prep School and have access to the IT suite and Sports Hall. 

All of our meals are eaten in the School Dining Hall, cooked by the chefs and catering team. All of our food is locally sourced, and we can cater to all dietary requirements.

We have a team of cleaners' who dust, hoover and clean the rooms, whilst the children are expected to make their beds and put their dirty clothes in the laundry baskets.

Meads End has a large common room with a kitchen and dining room attached. Most of our boarders relax in the evening, watching Sky TV on the large, comfy sofas. There is also a smaller room; the 'Snug' where pupils can do their homework, play on the computers or the Xbox. 

On the first floor, the boys occupy four bedrooms and the girls occupy three bedrooms on the top floor. They all share their bedroom with other similar-aged boarders.

We have a lovely garden, perfect for playing in or relaxing. There is a large lawn, flower beds and several fruit trees planted by the pupils.

Life in our Boarding House

At Meads End, we get the balance just right with structured activities, relaxation and schoolwork. Early evening activities take place on Monday, Tuesday and Thursdays, whilst 'Movie and Tuck' nights take place on Wednesday and Friday.

Living on the same campus as their school, boarders have plenty of time to enjoy all of the extra-curricular activities, clubs and practices available to them. Bede's runs a varied activities programme during the week where they can try anything from debating to creative writing to chess - activities which teach them new skills and help them to bond with their peers.

Weekend activities on offer throughout the year include mountain biking, visiting the trampoline park, outdoor activity centres, theatre trips, beach days, paintballing, kayaking, paddle boarding, roller disco, cinema and shopping trips. All activities are chosen by the boarders in weekly boarding house meetings.

We aim to give the children the opportunity to make the most of their local surroundings and culture. They are also encouraged to give back to the local community and support good causes such as distributing supplies to the homeless or raising vital funds - all of which are invaluable experiences that teach pupils skills beyond the classroom.