Boarding at Sherborne Boys
Living and learning together – every day of the week.
Full boarding is at the heart of life at Sherborne Boys. We’re one of the few UK schools where boys live on site seven days a week – and we believe it makes all the difference.
It gives us time: time to challenge, support and stretch our pupils. Time to balance academics with sport, music, drama and downtime. Time for boys to grow up together – learning how to live with others, navigate friendships, and become part of something bigger than themselves.
At the same time, boys understand they represent the School.
Being a Shirburnian means taking pride in your actions, showing kindness, and playing your part in a shared culture of respect and care. This close-knit, values-led environment underpins our pastoral care. We know our pupils well – their personalities, their pressures, their potential – and we work closely with parents to help every boy thrive.
Wallace House —
The Digby —
The Green —
School House —
Lyon House —
Abbeylands —
Abbey House —
Harper House —
Our Houses are more than a place to sleep – they are a home. Boys form strong friendships across year groups, with older pupils mentoring the younger. Each House is a close-knit community where everyone is known, valued and supported.
Our photo albums will give you an insight into what life in House is like, with more detailed information for each House contained below.
A Weekend Experience Like No Other —
Weekends at Sherborne Boys are purposeful, social and full of life.
Opportunities for Challenge & Adventure —
Saturday starts with morning lessons and occasionally, throughout the term we hold Whole-School Lectures – a highlight featuring speakers such as entrepreneurs, explorers and academics.
Sport follows in the afternoon, with every boy taking part – whether on the pitch or alongside friends. After House Assembly and supper, the evening brings social events with Sherborne Girls: film nights, barbecues, karaoke, discos, and more.
Sundays are calmer. Boys have time for rest, prep and have access to a range of physical activities at our Sports Centre, including exercise classes, swimming, climbing, the gym, as well as access to the music and Art schools. They may also head off on trips – from outdoor activities to cinema outings. Inter-House competitions also take place, adding a bit of fun and friendly rivalry.
The week closes with a service at Sherborne Abbey – a moment of stillness before the next chapter begins.
Loads to do at weekends – from social events with Sherborne Girls on Saturday nights to go karting, paintballing, coasteering, climbing and trips to the beach at Weymouth or to watch the Bristol Bears play. ‘It’s a smorgasbord of activities,’ said a member of staff.
Good Schools Guide 2025
Connecting With Our Wider Community
We encourage our boys to look beyond themselves – to give back, to get involved, and to build real connections with the wider world.
Our outreach work is active and growing. Each September, boys help deliver the Turing Bike Ride, raising funds for the Sherborne Voluntary Ambulance and The Samaritans. They also read with children at local primary schools and volunteer with the Yeatman Hospital, Sherborne Community Kitchen, and the Rendezvous.
We’re exploring partnerships with groups such as Yeovil Pen Mill Football Club, following a successful joint training session. These links offer opportunities for service, friendship and shared learning.
Fundraising events – like our Christmas Jumper Day in aid of Save the Children – are part of life here. But our priority is time over money. Long-term relationships and consistent presence are what make a difference – and that’s what Sherborne Boys aims to give.
