Take the reins of your child’s future
Lottie o’Brien expected to enjoy her new school — but not as much as she does.
the 11-year-old, who is in her second year at the Royal Alexandra and Albert School, a state boarding school in Reigate, Surrey, says: ‘there’s a nice, relaxed atmosphere in my boarding house.
‘At the weekends, i go down to town with my friends or we stay in and watch a film together. the best thing about boarding is that i’m never alone — i’m always with my friends.’
Lottie particularly enjoys singing lessons, netball and hockey and, because she is horse-mad, makes sure she takes advantage of the school’s equestrian centre.
Her parents live in Richmond, Surrey — the school being close to their home was important when they chose it.
State boarding schools are often described as ‘education’s best-kept secret’. Fees are a fraction of the cost of private schooling — at the Royal Alexandra & Albert School, just under £15,000 a year.
Lottie’s mother, Judith magee, 55, says: ‘As we are older parents, we chose boarding school for Lottie because it meant she could be with friends of her own age. We looked at all the state boarding schools that were closest to us. i was impressed with them all.
‘But the Royal Alexandra & Albert School was Lottie’s school of choice, and i certainly agree that it is perfect for her.’ indeed, Lottie’s boarding experience has already helped her to develop emotionally. Judith says: ‘Her confidence and selfesteem have really grown. She’s happier to meet new people and talk confidently, joining in conversations and expressing her own views on things.
‘She is more determined to do well and succeed in everything she tackles and it’s a delight for both my husband and i to see.’
Lottie’s confidence has also been recognised by teachers: she was recently made form captain, a role that carries extra duties and responsibilities.
And Judith believes the school has stretched her daughter since day one.
She adds: ‘it’s a special place and Lottie has already made some lovely, lifelong friendships.’
mark Dixon, headmaster of the Royal Alexandra & Albert School, says: ‘the school has 450 boarders and, as they are with us for much of the year, it is important that they feel comfortable and relaxed in their boarding houses.
‘We find that as soon as children start joining co-curricular activities and the busy programme of weekend activities, they start to form strong friendships and enjoy boarding.
‘they then benefit from the experience by developing confidence, independence and positive, lifelong relationships.’
FOR information on the Royal Alexandra & Albert School, visit raa-school.co.uk