Boarding FAQs
Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive from parents and guardians about boarding at Huish.
We hope this gives you a clearer sense of what life at Oak House is like and that you feel reassured about the care, opportunities and support your child will receive as part of our boarding community.
Will my child be safe and supervised at all times?
Yes! Oak House is staffed 24/7 by experienced duty houseparents. Residential houseparents live on site and the senior leadership team are always on call. As an Ofsted-rated Outstanding boarding house, we offer the highest standards of care and supervision. We further support our boarders’ wellbeing by encouraging all students to register with the local doctors’ surgery.
What happens at half terms and exeats?
To ensure consistency for our boarders, Oak House remains open to students during half terms and the Easter holidays – there are no exeats. The boarding house is only closed to students over Christmas and the summer break.
What academic outcomes can we realistically expect?
Huish has a strong track record for helping students to achieve more than they thought possible. Our Class of 2025 achieved our best results to date, outperforming national averages at every level: the overall pass rate was 99%, 62% of students achieved grades A*-B, and over 10% of students achieved 3 or more A*/A grades.
How strong is progression to Russell Group or competitive courses?
We have a well‑established record of supporting students onto Russell Group and other highly competitive degree programmes. Huish alumni graduating from Russell Group universities in 2025/26 achieved a higher proportion of First Class and Upper Second Class degrees than students from the independent sector, demonstrating strong long‑term outcomes. Each year, we also support multiple students progress onto highly selective opportunities, including Medicine, Veterinary Science and Oxbridge courses, through focused initiatives such as our Academic EnRICH and Medical Careers Academy programmes.
How will my child transition from overseas to UK life?
Your young person will be carefully supported from the moment they arrive. Oak House is staffed by experienced houseparents who also work across the college in teaching, careers and pastoral roles, ensuring understanding of both academic and boarding life. Through regular check‑ins, close pastoral support and gentle encouragement to take part in EnRICHment and social activities, students are helped to settle confidently into boarding, college routines and life in the UK.
How do I stay informed as a parent/guardian?
Parents and guardians are kept well informed through clear and regular communication. You will have access to your child’s online portal, allowing you to view academic progress and receive attendance notifications. Boarding staff maintain an open line of communication with parents and guardians, primarily via email and also by phone when needed, ensuring you are kept up to date.
What do the bedrooms look like?
Oak House offers 53 modern, ensuite bedrooms, designed to provide students with a comfortable, private and secure living space. Rooms vary in size to suit different preferences. You can see find out more and see room examples on our Oak House page.
I have a different question
If you have further questions about boarding at Huish after exploring our website, find out how to contact our boarding team.
