In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 boarding schools in Devon and their fees, giving you insight into what makes each institution unique.

Top 10 Boarding Schools In Devon And Fees

1. Blundell’s School (Tiverton)

Blundell’s School, founded in 1604, is one of the oldest and most prestigious independent schools in Devon. Situated in Tiverton, the school boasts a rich tradition of academic excellence alongside a strong emphasis on personal development.

Blundell’s offers boarding for pupils from ages 11 to 18 and is known for its well-rounded curriculum, which balances rigorous academics with extracurricular activities. The school places a strong emphasis on values such as respect, responsibility, and resilience, ensuring students leave as confident young adults ready for university or future careers.

The boarding facilities are designed to provide a family-like environment, with modern dormitories, common rooms, and dedicated pastoral support staff. Blundell’s is also well known for its sports, particularly rugby, producing players who have gone on to national and international success.

Fees:

• Day pupils: around £7,500 per term

• Full boarding: approximately £13,000 per term

2. Exeter School (Exeter)

Exeter School is one of the most respected independent schools in Devon, located in the historic city of Exeter. Established in 1633, it has a long tradition of academic achievement and cultural enrichment.

Although primarily a day school, Exeter School also offers limited boarding options for sixth formers. The focus is on high academic standards, with students consistently achieving top grades at GCSE and A-level. Beyond academics, the school encourages involvement in arts, drama, music, and sports, ensuring that students benefit from a holistic education.

The school has modern science labs, extensive sports fields, and a rich music program, making it attractive to families looking for a combination of tradition and innovation. Exeter’s location also makes it an excellent choice for students who want access to a vibrant city while enjoying a supportive school community.

Fees:

• Day pupils: from £6,500 per term

• Boarding (limited sixth form places): around £12,000 per term

3. Plymouth College (Plymouth)

Plymouth College is renowned not only for its strong academic foundation but also for its exceptional reputation in sports, particularly swimming. Many Olympic athletes have trained at Plymouth College, making it a popular choice for families with children interested in balancing sports and academics.

Founded in 1877, Plymouth College welcomes students from ages 3 to 18, with boarding available for older pupils. The school offers a nurturing environment that emphasizes personal development, leadership, and resilience. Boarding life is vibrant, with opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities ranging from drama productions to Duke of Edinburgh Award schemes.

The school’s international outlook is also a strong point, with many boarders coming from abroad, creating a diverse and multicultural community.

Fees:

• Day pupils: about £5,800 per term

• Full boarding: approximately £11,500 per term

4. Mount Kelly School (Tavistock)

Mount Kelly School, located in the market town of Tavistock on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, offers an inspiring setting for students. It was formed in 2014 through the merger of Kelly College and Mount House School, combining two strong traditions into one thriving institution.

Mount Kelly is known for its academic standards and exceptional swimming program, training athletes who have competed at Olympic level. The curriculum is broad, blending strong academics with enrichment opportunities in arts, music, and sports. Boarding at Mount Kelly is structured yet supportive, fostering independence while ensuring students feel part of a close-knit community.

The school’s location offers unique outdoor learning opportunities, including adventure training and outdoor pursuits that take advantage of Dartmoor’s rugged beauty.

Fees:

• Day pupils: around £6,200 per term

• Full boarding: approximately £12,500 per term

5. Shebbear College (Beaworthy)

Shebbear College is a co-educational independent day and boarding school with a history dating back to 1829. Located in North Devon, it offers education for students aged 4 to 18.

The school is known for its inclusive ethos and nurturing environment, which places equal emphasis on academics, creativity, and community spirit. With smaller class sizes, Shebbear provides personalized attention, enabling students to thrive academically and socially. Boarding at Shebbear offers modern accommodation with excellent pastoral support, making it an excellent choice for families looking for a home-away-from-home environment.

The school also promotes extracurricular activities such as sports, music, drama, and outdoor pursuits. Its rural location allows students to enjoy outdoor adventures, further enhancing personal development.

Fees:

• Day pupils: from £5,500 per term

• Full boarding: around £10,500 per term

6. Trinity School (Teignmouth)

Trinity School, located in Teignmouth, is a co-educational independent school for students aged 3 to 18. With stunning views overlooking the sea, Trinity provides an inspiring learning environment that balances academics with wellbeing.

The school has a strong Christian ethos, promoting values of respect, compassion, and community. Its small class sizes ensure that students receive individual support, enabling them to reach their full potential. Boarding life at Trinity is warm and welcoming, with a strong family atmosphere and excellent facilities.

Trinity School also emphasizes extracurricular activities, including sports, performing arts, and outdoor education, making it ideal for students seeking a well-rounded education.

Fees:

• Day pupils: from £4,800 per term

• Full boarding: approximately £9,500 per term

7. Queen Elizabeth’s School (Crediton)

Queen Elizabeth’s School (QE) is a state boarding school in Crediton, making it a unique and affordable option for families. As a state boarding school, tuition is funded by the government, and parents only need to pay for boarding costs.

QE offers high-quality education with a wide range of subjects and extracurricular activities. Boarding students enjoy a strong sense of community, with dedicated staff supporting their academic and personal growth. The school is well-regarded for its inclusivity and the opportunities it provides for students from different backgrounds.

Its combination of affordability, strong academics, and a supportive boarding community makes QE a popular choice for families seeking value without compromising on quality.

Fees:

• Boarding: approximately £4,800 per term

• Tuition: funded by the UK government

8. Stover School (Newton Abbot)

Stover School, situated in Newton Abbot, is an independent day and boarding school for students aged 3 to 18. Founded in 1932, the school provides a balanced education that nurtures academic ability, personal development, and creativity.

The boarding facilities at Stover are modern and supportive, offering students a safe and welcoming environment. The school prides itself on its holistic approach, ensuring pupils are not only academically prepared but also confident and resilient. With extensive extracurricular opportunities, including sports, music, and drama, students are encouraged to explore their passions.

The school’s ethos emphasizes kindness, respect, and integrity, creating a positive community that helps pupils thrive.

Fees:

• Day pupils: from £4,600 per term

• Full boarding: around £9,800 per term

9. West Buckland School (Barnstaple)

West Buckland School, located near Barnstaple in North Devon, is a leading co-educational independent day and boarding school for pupils aged 3 to 18. Established in 1858, it has a strong academic reputation, with students regularly achieving impressive results at GCSE and A-level.

Boarding at West Buckland is vibrant, with a mix of UK and international students creating a multicultural environment. The school offers modern boarding houses, a broad curriculum, and a wealth of extracurricular opportunities, including outdoor education, performing arts, and sports.

West Buckland’s stunning rural location provides students with both security and the chance to enjoy outdoor adventures while benefiting from a strong academic focus.

Fees:

• Day pupils: from £6,200 per term

• Full boarding: approximately £11,800 per term

10. Exeter Cathedral School (Exeter)

Exeter Cathedral School is one of the oldest schools in the country, dating back to the 12th century. Situated in the heart of Exeter, it is a co-educational preparatory school that provides boarding for choristers and other pupils.

The school is well known for its musical heritage, particularly its world-famous cathedral choir, but it also offers a strong academic foundation and supportive pastoral care. Boarding life is tailored to younger pupils, ensuring they feel comfortable and cared for.

Families seeking a preparatory school with strong academic traditions and outstanding music opportunities often choose Exeter Cathedral School as a stepping stone to senior boarding schools.

Fees:

• Day pupils: from £4,200 per term

• Boarding: around £8,000 per term

Conclusion

Devon’s boarding schools provide an exceptional mix of tradition, academic excellence, extracurricular opportunities, and supportive communities. From prestigious schools like Blundell’s and Mount Kelly to more affordable state boarding options like Queen Elizabeth’s, there’s something for every family’s needs and budget.

When choosing the right school, consider not only the fees but also the ethos, facilities, and boarding style that best match your child’s personality and aspirations. Ultimately, Devon offers a wide range of boarding schools where students can grow academically, socially, and personally in one of the most beautiful regions of the UK.