Top 4 boarding schools to study arts in England

England is home to some of the most prestigious educational institutions in the world when it comes to artistic training. For young Brazilians who dream of developing their talents in theater, music, visual arts, and design, the country offers specialized boarding schools that combine academic excellence with international artistic programs.

Choosing the right school can define a student's entire artistic trajectory. Each institution has unique characteristics, from innovative methodologies to exclusive partnerships with renowned conservatories. Let's learn about the four best options for those seeking a complete education in the arts.

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1. Rochester Independent College: specialization in musical theater

O Rochester Independent College stands out as the most specialized performing arts institution in England. Located just 30 minutes from London, the school gained international recognition when it received the award for the best arts school in the United Kingdom in 2023.

Unique differentials:

• Exclusive partnership with the University of Arts London
• Dedicated musical director for development in musical theater
• 60% of students are British, demonstrating local trust in the institution
• Absence of school uniform, reflecting open-mindedness for the arts
• Campus cinema for the premiere of student productions

The school's methodology combines theory and practice in an intensive way. Students participate in annual productions in external professional theaters, experiencing all stages of theatrical creation: acting, directing, production, and marketing.

Professional facilities:

• Specialized art studios
• Complete photographic laboratory
• Ceramic studio with professional lathe
• Two textile studios with computerized machines
• Five Mac labs with state-of-the-art software

The BTEC Extended Diploma in Performing Arts program offers specific vocational preparation for musical theater, equivalent to three A-Levels. This differential allows direct access to the world's best drama schools, including RADA, LAMDA, and Guildhall School of Music and Drama.

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2. Mill Hill School: Tradition and Excellence in the Dramatic Arts

Founded in 1807, Mill Hill School unites centuries-old tradition with artistic innovation. Its 120-acre campus in North London offers a rural environment with privileged access to London's West End.

Main features:

• Patrick Troughton Theater with 250 seats
• Foulis Theatre for intimate performances
• Fully equipped Drama Studio
• Professional workshop for scenario construction

The school offers a balanced curriculum through traditional A-Levels complemented by a robust arts program. Students have regular opportunities to attend shows in the West End and participate in workshops with theater industry professionals.

The drama department focuses on developing fundamental skills such as trust, empathy, and teamwork. What is it like to study at a boarding school may vary between institutions, but Mill Hill offers the full boarding experience, including structured weekends.

Programs offered:

• GCSE Drama (Edexcel)
• A Level Drama and Theater (Edexcel)
• Internationally recognized LAMDA qualifications

Mill Hill alumni have joined prestigious conservatories such as Guildhall School of Music & Drama, Arts Ed, LAMDA, and Bristol Old Vic Theatre School.

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3. Bournemouth Collegiate School: waterfront arts

Located on the south coast of England, Bournemouth Collegiate School offers a unique experience combining artistic training with a coastal environment. The school is just 90 minutes from London and has a campus literally on the beach.

Location differentials:

• Campus with ocean view
• Proximity to Arts University Bournemouth
• Stimulating urban-university environment
• Milder climate compared to the north of England

The institution was a finalist for the ISA Award for Excellence and Innovation in the Performing Arts in 2023. Its performing arts program includes annual large scale productions, most notably the musical “Grease!” scheduled for 2024.

Strategic Partnerships:

• Collaboration with Big Little Theatre Company
• Workshops with West End artists
• Individual singing and instrument lessons
• Preparing for LAMDA, ABRSM, and Trinity exams

The school offers A-Levels in Fine Art, Photography and Textiles, in addition to a full performing arts program. Boarding School vs High School: Complete Guide shows the advantages of each sport, and Bournemouth offers both options.

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4. Reddam House: academic excellence with an artistic focus

O Reddam House in Berkshire represents the ideal option for students seeking general academic excellence without giving up solid artistic opportunities. The school has exceptional academic evaluations and a proven record of admissions to Russell Group universities.

Outstanding academic results:

• GCSE 2023: Most students achieved grades 9-7 (equivalent to A*-A)
• A-Level 2023: high percentage of A*-A grades
• University destinations include Oxford and Cambridge

Although it does not specialize exclusively in arts like the previous ones, Reddam House offers disciplines such as Dance, Music, and Theater Studies. Performing arts activities are part of the robust extracurricular program.

Academic differential:

• Personalized holistic education
• Highly qualified teachers
• Dedicated mentoring for each student
• Specific preparation for elite universities

For families that prioritize academic versatility, Reddam House allows students to explore artistic interests while keeping doors open to diverse university careers.

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Which educational system to choose?

O High school in England differs significantly from the Brazilian system. The British model allows for early specialization through A-Levels, ideal for students with defined passions.

Curriculum options:

• GCSE (Year 11): Broad base of compulsory subjects
• A-Levels (Years 12-13): Specialization in 3-4 subjects
• BTEC Diploma: Specific vocational training

Typical program length:

1. Year 1: GCSE with compulsory subjects + artistic electives
2. Years 2-3: Specialized A-Levels or BTEC in Performing Arts

Rochester Independent College's BTEC Extended Diploma is equivalent to three A-Levels and offers a direct path to conservatories. Traditional A-Levels, on the other hand, provide greater flexibility for conventional universities.

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Location and access to cultural opportunities

Cities most sought after by exchange students in England include London and its surrounding areas for good reason. The proximity to the capital offers unparalleled access to:

Opportunities in London:

• West End: highest concentration of theaters in the world
• World-famous art museums
• Elite Conservatories and Drama Schools
• Active creative industry

Benefits by school:

• Rochester: 30 minutes from London by train
• Mill Hill: North London, direct access to the West End
• Bournemouth: 90 minutes from London, coastal environment
• Reddam House: Berkshire, near Windsor and London

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How to choose the ideal school?

The decision must consider the student's specific profile:

For maximum specialization in musical theater: Rochester Independent College offers an environment closer to a professional conservatory.

For academic tradition with solid arts: Mill Hill School combines historic prestige with an excellent drama department.

For a unique seaside experience: Bournemouth Collegiate School provides a differentiated environment with proven artistic quality.

For general academic excellence: Reddam House keeps its doors open to diverse careers while maintaining artistic opportunities.

Understand about Boarding school it may help to compare different countries, but England maintains a unique position in artistic education due to its theatrical tradition and proximity to the London creative industry.

Decisive factors:

• Desired level of expertise
• Preference between urban or rural environment
• Importance of institutional tradition
• Future university objectives

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Be Easy

Ready to open the doors of the art world to your child? A Be Easy you are here to make that dream come true through our High School program specialized. Our experienced team offers full support from selecting the ideal school to following up throughout the educational journey. Contact us and discover how we can transform your child's artistic talent into a successful international career.