From Year 9, all pupils belong to one of 13 houses. Each house is a physical building where pupils meet, relax, eat endless snacks and form lasting friendships.
Epsom’s boarding school model gives pupils the time and space to develop friendships, interests and discover themselves as they move through their teenage years. All our pupils benefit from this system – regardless of whether they are a boarder or a day pupil.
Each house is structured the same – with Matrons, Housemasters/Housemistresses and their Deputies, plus a team of Tutors. The only difference is that day pupils have study rooms, while boarders have bedrooms.
Around 60% of our pupils are day pupils. The 40% who board are comprised of weekly boarders from local families, and full boarders from overseas.
The school day runs from 8.20am-6pm, and provides a packed programme of academic lessons, games, clubs, societies, Duke of Edinburgh, and service in the community. To have time for everything we offer, we run Saturday school, with three lessons on Saturday mornings, followed by sport in the afternoon.
Boarding at Epsom gives your child access to everything we have, round-the-clock. By removing the commute there's more time with friends, to relax, use our facilities and study with the support of our teachers.
A Day In One of Our Houses
Start of Day
Boarders have breakfast in the Dining Hall, while Day pupils start arriving from 8am. All pupils start the day in their House, catching up with friends and meeting their Tutor - a crucial part of the pastoral care we provide.
Mornings
After assemblies, Chapel, or dedicated time with their Tutor, your child's lessons begin. Each period is 50 minutes in length.
Breaktime
Your child returns to their House for break time. The toasters and kettles go into overdrive, as pupils refuel and catch up with friends.
Lunch
All pupils eat lunch in the Dining Hall, with mealtimes staggered by year group, with the rest of the time spent around the College grounds or within the House - resting, studying, or socialising.
Afternoons
Afternoons start with registration in the House before heading off to lessons or games (depending on the day).
Afternoon Tea
Back to the house for a final chance to refresh and regroup before a couple of hours of activities, clubs or societies. On Wednesday, in Year 10 and above, pupils take part in CCF, Duke of Edinburgh, or Service.
School Day Ends
The formal school day ends at 6pm, with registration in Houses. Day pupils are then free to leave, with College transport departing at 6.15pm. Supper is available in the Dining Hall until 7pm.
Lights Out
With prep out of the way, and relaxation and socialising complete, bedtimes begin. For Year 9, this is at 10pm; Year 10, 10.10pm; Year 11, 10.20pm; and for Sixth Form, 10.30pm.
