Orwell Park School
A British boarding education by the coast within easy reach of London and Cambridge.
Why Orwell Park for International families?
Orwell Park School offers international pupils an outstanding British boarding education in a beautiful and safe countryside setting. With family-style boarding from Year 3, exceptional integrated EAL support and small class sizes, pupils settle quickly and thrive both academically and socially. Strong academic outcomes and excellent preparation for top UK senior schools make Orwell Park an ideal foundation for international students.Our pupils benefit from dedicated teachers and a broad curriculum that encourages curiosity, independence, and resilience. The result is a happy, supportive, and academically ambitious school where children from around the world flourish and are well prepared for the next stage of their education. We are delighted to have joined the Benenden Family of Schools, with the partnership founded on shared educational values of authenticity, individuality, and a forward-thinking approach to preparing young people for the future.
“Orwell Park is a great school, it is my home. My favourite activity is my Art scholars session. Academic expectations are high and we get EAL and learning support.”
Enquiry Form
Cara Shirley, Director of Admissions and Marketing
‘We understand the importance of selecting the right school for your child and family and thank you for considering Orwell Park. We can make offers for full boarding places from Year 3 to Year 8 and can consider entry at any point in the year. Typically, we make offers for one term or more, but we can also consider immersion stays. Our admissions process is straightforward, and this begins with an online meeting with our Head. If you are considering Orwell Park for your child(ren), please do get in touch with Admissions and we would be happy to help. Our Summer School is taking place in July 2026, and you can book this below.’
Alex Kemsley, Deputy Head (Academic)
“I love meeting prospective pupils and discovering what makes each of them unique. During a short interview, I ask about their interests, what they enjoy at school, and the types of books they like to read.
Pupils also take a diagnostic assessment in Maths and English, which helps us understand their current levels and ensures we provide personalised support tailored to their learning needs. We work closely with every child to make the transition smooth and to help them thrive her at Orwell Park.”
Summer School
The residential programme will offer English language classes in the mornings, with a wide range of activities, sports and cultural visits in the afternoons, alongside Orwell Park children from the local area. All levels of English are welcome, from beginners to fluent speakers.
Our summer school offers an optional 4 additional masterclasses at an extra charge including sailing, shooting, tennis and golf. These classes give your daughter or son the opportunity to specialise in their afternoons at the Orwell Park Summer School.
Boarding
Families choose boarding at Orwell Park because of its small, nurturing community where every child is known and valued. The boarding environment is intentionally designed to feel welcoming rather than institutional, allowing children to settle quickly and feel secure. Outstanding pastoral care underpins daily life, with experienced staff who take the time to understand each child’s needs and personality.
Boarding offers a thoughtful balance of structure and freedom. Clear routines provide reassurance and stability, while children are also encouraged to relax, explore interests and enjoy time with friends. Through this experience, pupils develop independence, resilience and strong friendships that often last well beyond their time at school.
Exceptional EAL Support
Within the Learning Enrichment program, additional language support is led by our Head of EAL. The department offers a highly tailored exam-preparation programme with an outstanding track record of success in Cambridge examinations. All pupils are supported to achieve B1 or B2 outcomes.
EAL support is fully included within the school fees and encompasses guidance with independent work, in-class support, and weekly small-group lessons. For families seeking further individualisation, there is also the option of additional 1-to-1 or small-group tuition.
Senior Schools
All pupils at Orwell Park achieve excellent outcomes in their final examinations, with many securing scholarships to their chosen senior schools. Our strong academic foundation, combined with individual guidance and careful preparation, enables children to move on with confidence to some of the UK’s most respected independent schools. In recent years, Orwell Park pupils have progressed to a wide range of leading senior schools, including:
Ampleforth, Benenden, Brighton College, Cheltenham Ladies’ College, Culford, Downe House, Eton, Felsted, Framlingham, Gordonstoun, Gresham’s, Haileybury, Harrow, Ipswich School, King’s Canterbury, Marlborough, Millfield, Milton Abbey, Oakham, Oundle, Radley, Repton, RGS Guildford, Rugby, Sedbergh, Shrewsbury, St Mary’s Ascot, Stowe, The Leys, Tonbridge, Tudor Hall, Uppingham, Wellington, Westminster, Winchester, Woodbridge and Wycombe Abbey.
Fees
Orwell Park offers overseas families a warm, secure and academically ambitious boarding environment where children are respected and supported. Our fees include an exceptional range of opportunities that many UK prep schools charge extra for — from specialist teaching and small classes to extensive co‑curricular activities, wraparound care, and outstanding pastoral support. Set within 110 acres of beautiful grounds, pupils enjoy a rich curriculum, modern facilities, and a nurturing community that helps them grow in confidence, independence, and character. With flexible boarding, strong academic outcomes, and a seamless partnership with parents, Orwell Park provides an all‑inclusive, high‑value education that prepares children for leading senior schools and a bright future in the UK.
Where are we?
Orwell Park School enjoys a peaceful countryside setting in Suffolk while remaining exceptionally well connected for international families. The school is within easy reach of London and is conveniently located for travel to and from major UK cities such as Cambridge and Oxford, making it an ideal base for academic and cultural opportunities.
With excellent access to London’s main international airports, including Heathrow and Gatwick, journeys to and from home are straightforward and stress-free for overseas students. This combination of a safe, tranquil environment and strong transport links offers international families the best of both worlds.
