Compare International Schools in Dorking, United Kingdom

Box Hill School

Instructs in English

Ages 11 - 18 years

Fees £28,245 - 59,670

Pupils 450

Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)

Box Hill School is a co‑educational independent day and boarding school set on about 26 acres at Mickleham, near Dorking in Surrey, England. It offers the British Curriculum with a Sixth Form cohort studying the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme alongside A Levels. Years 7–9 follow a broad 11–16 framework, with French and Spanish as core language choices and integrated EAL support in mainstream classes. A One Year GCSE programme helps mainly EAL pupils transfer to the Sixth Form. The school emphasises an international ethos through IDEALS from Round Square—internationalism, democracy, environmentalism, adventure, leadership and service—and supports overseas pupils via an International Study Centre. Facilities include a new £5 million Sports Centre, multiple IT-enabled classrooms, specialist studios for dance, drama and art, and extensive music suites. Beyond the classroom, co‑curricular activity encompasses Duke of Edinburgh, expeditions, language exchanges, and Round Square conferences.

Location

Old London Road, Mickleham, Dorking, RH5 6EA, United Kingdom. Set within 26 acres of countryside near Dorking and Leatherhead, about 45 minutes from London.

Stages

11-18 years

Type

Co-educational, independent school offering day, weekly and full boarding.

Pupil Nationality Mix

An international community with pupils from the UK and around the world.

Country affiliation

United Kingdom (England)

Registration & deposits

- Registration fee (payable on registration, non‑refundable): GBP 150.
- Registration fee for international applicants (payable on registration, non‑refundable): GBP 250.
- Acceptance deposit (payable on acceptance of a place): GBP 1,800. This deposit is not refundable and will be credited against the final payment of fees on leaving unless otherwise stated.
- Acceptance deposit for international applicants (payable on acceptance of a place): GBP 5,000.

Termly tuition fees (per term) — by year group and boarding option

- Years 7 & 8:
- Day student: GBP 9,415 per term.
- Flexi boarding (2 nights): GBP 11,610 per term.
- Flexi boarding (3 nights): GBP 12,605 per term.
- Weekly boarding: GBP 13,800 per term.
- Full boarding: GBP 15,670 per term.

- Years 9–11:
- Day student: GBP 10,145 per term.
- Flexi boarding (2 nights): GBP 12,510 per term.
- Flexi boarding (3 nights): GBP 13,585 per term.
- Weekly boarding: GBP 14,870 per term.
- Full boarding: GBP 18,335 per term.

- Sixth Form (Years 12 & 13):
- Day student: GBP 10,585 per term.
- Flexi boarding (2 nights): GBP 12,950 per term.
- Flexi boarding (3 nights): GBP 14,040 per term.
- Weekly boarding: GBP 15,515 per term.
- Full boarding: GBP 19,110 per term. Sixth Form fees include all educational trips and visits except specialist field trips.

- One Year GCSE Programme (termly):
- Day student: GBP 12,435 per term.
- Weekly boarding: GBP 16,180 per term.
- Full boarding: GBP 19,890 per term. These One Year GCSE Programme fees are inclusive of EAL/ESL charges and UK outings.

- Note on VAT: Termly tuition figures shown are inclusive of VAT where the fees list indicates so. Specific items and extra charges may be subject to VAT as stated in the school's terms.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- The annual school fee is divided into three termly invoices. Each term's fees are payable in cleared funds before the first day of the term to which they relate; invoices are issued separately for each term. Failure to pay by the deadline can result in refusal of attendance, withholding of references and other contractual remedies. Simple interest may be charged on overdue invoices (up to 1.5% per month) and an administration fee of GBP 50 may be applied for sums unpaid 14 days after due date.

Fee payment options

- Bank transfer.
- Fees in Advance Scheme (a lump‑sum prepayment arrangement that can reduce the overall cost under the scheme's terms).
- School Fee Plan (monthly payment arrangements provided by a third party; the school is an appointed representative of Premium Credit Limited for payment-plan services). Direct debit monthly payment options are available for UK parents via the School Fee Plan subject to credit checks and terms.

Boarding fees and options

- Boarding is offered as flexi (2 or 3 nights), weekly and full boarding across the listed year groups; full‑boarding termly rates are shown above by year group. Extra weekend or occasional boarding is charged at GBP 158 per night (inc VAT). Changes from boarding to a day place require a Term's Written Notice or payment of fees in lieu of notice as specified in the terms.

Other costs and typical additional charges

- Standard digital device scheme: laptops may be purchased outright or rented on a 36‑month agreement with the chosen supplier.
- Extra weekend/occasional boarding: GBP 158 per night (inc VAT).
- Coaching for specific learning support: GBP 67 per hour (inc VAT).
- Speech and language support: GBP 67 per hour (inc VAT).
- Private English and Maths tuition: GBP 60 per hour (inc VAT).
- Some co‑curricular activities incur additional charges (examples include golf, mountain biking, horse riding, STEM go‑karting) and certain trips or specialist field trips may be charged separately. Minibus transport is also a chargeable service if used.
- Sibling discount: 5% off full fees for the second child and 10% for each subsequent child.

Refunds, cancellations and notice

- The Acceptance Deposit is not refundable and will normally be retained or applied against final sums due. Fees are not refunded, reduced or waived for reasons including pupil illness, shortened terms, early release before the end of term, temporary school closures for safety reasons, or where provision is delivered remotely, except in exceptional hardship at the Head's sole discretion. A Term's Written Notice is required in order to withdraw a pupil; if proper notice is not given the school will charge a term's fees as fees in lieu of notice. For cancellations or withdrawals after the 14‑day cancellation period, either a Term's Written Notice must be given or Fees in Lieu of Notice are payable. On providing valid notice, any Additional Deposit (where paid) will be refunded but the Acceptance Deposit may be forfeited in accordance with the terms.

Administrative and contractual points parents should note

- Extra charges, examination entry fees, meals, uniform items, equipment, accidental damage or other optional items are treated as Extra Charges and are payable in addition to the School Fees. All invoices must be paid in cleared funds; payments by third parties do not release parental liability unless a separate written agreement is in place. The school reviews fees annually and will notify parents in advance of any increase as required by the terms. Late or non‑payment may lead to the school withholding services or terminating the contract in accordance with the terms and conditions.

Boarding Arrangements

Box Hill School is a boarding and day school for mixed gender pupils aged 11 to 18 (Years 7 to 13). It offers full, weekly and flexi boarding for boys and girls.

Uniform Requirement

Box Hill School branded uniform items are available from Unismart; orders can be placed online or via an on-site uniform shop by appointment. For formal dress, students wear plain white or pastel blouses (Y13 may wear subtle pinstripes), a dark suit or skirt with jacket, plain V-neck sweaters, and appropriate black leather shoes; jewellery is discreet and hair should be tidy.

House System

There are six boarding houses at Box Hill School, three for male pupils and three for female pupils.

Governance and Ownership

Box Hill School is an independent co-educational day and boarding school, a charitable trust governed by a board of governors.

Curriculum

Broad 11–16 curriculum with Years 7–9 and Sixth Form provision. Two languages, French and Spanish, are taught; subjects include art, sciences, design and technology, drama, English, music, physical education and PSHEE. A One Year GCSE programme supports mainly EAL pupils to transfer to the Sixth Form; EAL support is provided in mainstream classes. Sixth Form offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and A Levels; an International Study Centre supports overseas pupils for Sixth Form; IDEALS of Round Square underpin the curriculum.

Exam Results

Outcomes at GCSE, A Level and IB are broadly in line with national expectations.

Higher Education Progression

Sixth Form offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and A Levels; an International Study Centre supports overseas pupils in readiness for Sixth Form.

Gifted and Talented

The curriculum accommodates pupils who are gifted or talented and includes a separate Most Able policy.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Leaders and governors have developed strategies to support pupils' mental and emotional wellbeing and there are processes in place to identify concerns. Pupils are clear on how to access help if needed. Staff, including those in boarding, are trained on mental health and wellbeing and the school works with a local foundation to provide extra support for those who need it. Boarders feel safe and well cared for by house staff. The PSHE curriculum is relevant and adaptable, addressing age, cultural backgrounds and needs, and includes topics such as equality, diversity and inclusion; assemblies and discussions extend pupils' understanding of social issues.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

The school has identified 143 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). No pupils have an education, health and care (EHC) plan.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

149 pupils have English as an additional language.

Mental Wellbeing

Staff receive training on mental health and wellbeing. The school works with a local foundation to provide extra support for pupils who need it. Boarding pupils are supported and feel safe under the care of house parents. The PSHE programme includes mental health and wellbeing content and promotes wellbeing and mutual respect.

Safeguarding

Training for the designated safeguarding lead and deputies is carried out effectively. Pupils feel safe in school. Safer recruitment checks are completed on all staff, governors and volunteers, overseen by a member of the governing body and the headteacher.

History

Box Hill School was founded in 1959 and is a charitable trust administered by a board of governors. It was a founding member of Round Square, an international network inspired by Kurt Hahn. The school comprises a senior department and a sixth form, with six boarding and six day houses, and an international study centre. IDEALS of Round Square—internationalism, democracy, environmentalism, adventure, leadership and service—shape the school's ethos. A new sports centre and a synthetic pitch were opened to enhance facilities.

Community

Box Hill School uses the Tutor and House system and participates in the Round Square framework as part of life on campus. The school hosts an international study centre and maintains a vibrant community through events and Round Square activities.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

There is a Box Hill School Association (BHSA) for parent involvement. The Parent Contract references BHSA and notes that records may pass your contact details to the BHSA.

Facilities Overview

Dalewood House sits in approximately 26 acres of landscaped grounds. A brand new £5 million Sports Centre provides two levels of sport facilities, with indoor nets for netball, badminton, volleyball, basketball and tennis, plus a 5-a-side football pitch and cricket nets. Outdoor facilities include football pitches, cricket pitches and a recreational swimming pool, an outdoor astroturf pitch and an outdoor netball/tennis court on the second level of the building, along with a climbing wall and high ropes. The campus has IT-enabled classrooms, specialist studios for dance, drama and art, and music facilities with a large classroom, practice rooms, band rooms and a recital room. Catering is described as excellent and there are six boarding houses providing about 130 beds.

Sports Facilities

The Sports Centre on two levels includes indoor nets for netball, badminton, volleyball, basketball and tennis; a 5-a-side football pitch; cricket nets; a classroom and a fitness suite/gym; a balcony area for aerobics and changing rooms. Outdoor facilities include football pitches, cricket pitches and a recreational swimming pool, plus an outdoor astroturf pitch and an outdoor netball/tennis court on the second level. The site also features a climbing wall and high ropes for activity.

Academic Facilities

IT-enabled classroom facilities. Specialist studios for dance, drama and art. Music facilities include a large well-equipped classroom, practice rooms, band practice rooms and a recital room.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Specialist studios for dance, drama and art support co-curricular activities, alongside music facilities with a large teaching space, practice rooms, band rooms and a recital room. Extra-curricular spaces include a climbing wall and high ropes, access to indoor nets for netball, badminton, volleyball, basketball and tennis, plus outdoor football and cricket pitches, a recreational swimming pool and an outdoor astroturf pitch.

Academic & Intellectual

The school offers guest speakers and lectures, internal clubs and societies, and subject-specific workshops to deepen learning. The school's activity programme includes expeditions and residential experiences, and Round Square conferences and trips broaden global awareness. Music and drama productions supplement academic work, and subject mentoring supports pupils in developing strengths and independence.

Arts & Creative

Pupils collaborate to stage drama productions and perform in music concerts and recitals. Art and textiles are showcased in exhibitions, including fashion shows with music composed by Year 8 pupils. A Festival of Mischief and Mayhem features works on international themes, reflecting cross-cultural creative projects. The school provides opportunities in art, design and music through cross-curricular collaboration and performances.

Cultural & Language

The school runs language trips and exchanges with sister-schools overseas, broadening linguistic and cultural horizons. Pupils participate in language challenges and achieve successes as business language champions in international contexts. Round Square conferences and trips support global citizenship and cultural understanding. Multilingual communication is fostered through exposure to languages beyond the classroom.

Social & Hobbies

Pupils enjoy freedom to participate in activities such as debating club, the green team, and writers' collective club. A wide range of co-curricular clubs and societies encourages teamwork and creative expression beyond lessons. Boarders have access to after-hours activities and events, enriching social life. The programme supports social development through collaborative projects and competitions.

Community & Service

The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme is compulsory for Year 9 and leads to silver and gold awards. Pupils take part in expeditions, cultural visits and sports tours as part of the co-curricular programme. The DofE and related activities include service and volunteering, supporting social responsibility. These experiences help pupils develop resilience and practical leadership.

Leadership & Professional

Leadership opportunities are embedded in co-curricular activities, including Round Square conferences and trips and subject mentoring. Pupils contribute to leadership through school councils and house committees, with participation in charity fundraising and service projects. The More Able programme promotes leadership in learning, public speaking and debating, with opportunities to lead and mentor others.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

The school offers a broad sports programme including soccer, rugby, hockey, netball, rounders, cricket and athletics, with overseas tours. There is an extensive outdoor education programme that supports physical and mental well-being and resilience. The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme promotes outdoor activity, leadership development and service. Co-curricular activities are considered part of the learning environment and are as important as classroom activity.

Admissions

The school offers three formal entry points: Year 7, Year 9 and Year 12. UK candidates are typically in the equivalent year group at entry (e.g. Year 6/Year 8/Year 11). Entry is based on interview, prior school reports, references and recommendations, and two Box Hill School–based tests in English and Maths to ascertain relative ability and any learning needs. Relevant SEN documents, such as an Educational Psychologist report, must be presented before registration. For overseas candidates, the interview may be undertaken via Zoom. The entry tests in Mathematics and English are taken in the Winter before admission and may be administered on an individual basis at other times. The criteria by which entry is decided are the results of the examination papers, the school reports/references and the interview. The process also considers Specific Learning Differences; every step will be taken to consider the needs of candidates with SEN. The school runs admissions for UK and International students, with process guidance applicable to both in the prospectus.

Scholarships

The school offers Scholarships, Headmistress's Discretionary Awards (HDA), Means-Tested Bursaries and Sibling Discounts. Scholarships are selective, offered for a fixed period and normally worth up to 25% of fees; the Headmistress may award a greater scholarship if deemed appropriate. Scholars receive other privileges and recognition in the School. HDAs recognise significant contributions not reflected in categories such as scholarships. Bursaries are selective, means-tested, normally offered at entry and reviewed annually. External candidates must submit a letter of application outlining their skills and reasons for scholarship consideration; candidates are invited to Scholars' Day and undertake interviews and subject-focused assessments (e.g., drama, music, art, sport) or are assessed via internal tests for academic scholarships. Internal candidates' awards are made following recommendations from Heads of Key Stage or Heads of Specialisms based on performance and contribution. Means-tested bursaries follow a confidential scale and are reviewed annually, with repeat means-testing forms due each year; there is a hardship fund for cases of sudden need. A 25% discount on the youngest child is available to families with two or more children in the School. All bursary awards are discretionary and can be revoked for reasons such as poor behaviour or misalignment with curriculum choices or participation in required activities.

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