One of the UK’s leading and affordable state boarding schools

High-quality and affordable boarding school

There are only a few SBSA (State Boarding Schools Association) schools, like Dallam in the UK.  If you are considering boarding, then we’re glad you are looking at the state boarding option with us because we provide high-quality boarding at the lowest possible cost. As a state boarding school, you only pay the cost of boarding as there are no tuition fees to pay. Instead of paying £30,000+ a year at an independent boarding school, at Dallam you pay a much lower cost of approximately £4,000 per term (full-time boarding). Siblings and NHS, blue light services and forces families are also eligible for a 5% discount.

Excellent results

All state boarding schools follow the National Curriculum, students are taught by fully-qualified teachers and take the same exams as they would if they attended a non-boarding state school. Whilst the exams are the same, each year state boarding schools regularly outperform other state schools with many topping academic league tables around the country. The combination of the excellent state-funded education and a stable and supportive boarding community helps pupils to make the most of their talents and abilities.

After achieving outstanding exam results, many of our students go on to some of the world’s top universities. With our envious location on the edge of the Lake District National Park, Dallam students benefit from exceptional extra-curricular outdoor activities both in school and at boarding.

I like the Boarding Staff because they are easy to come and talk to about anything and they really look out for you and care for us.’ – Year 13 boarding student

The best of boarding care

Increasingly, parents are considering state boarding schools ahead of boarding in the independent sector as you can get the education and pastoral care you’re looking for at a fraction of the cost.  Dallam is one of the UK’s leading and most affordable state boarding schools.  When you come to visit us we’re sure you’ll agree. The facilities and quality of teaching are excellent and the pastoral care delivered by our experienced and dedicated team will reassure you that we will look after your child in every way. 

We understand the importance of communication between parents/carers and the boarding team.  We will send you a report in the first two weeks to let you know how your child is settling in, and then a full report sent to you every term.  Our boarding Houseparents are always in touch here and there with little updates too. 

Demand for places at state boarding schools is high.  Speak to us today to secure a place for your child during their school or sixth form years.  Find out more about sixth-form boarding.

…the relationships between boarders and staff are extremely good, and the general standard of behaviour and community spirit exhibited by the boarders was excellent, and amongst the best I have encountered. – Boarding Schools’ Association

No compulsory weekend exeats

Exeats, or compulsory weekend leave is commonplace in the independent sector and often causes logistical problems for families that live far away. At Dallam, there are no exeats to worry about. Our students are welcome to stay at the boarding house every weekend during term time.  Equally, if they wish to go home or you would like to visit us, there is flexibility to do so.

Please note: Admission to state boarding schools in the UK is limited to children who are nationals of the UK and are eligible to hold a full UK passport, or those who have the right of residence in the UK. Please note that the holding of a BN(O) passport does not make the child eligible for a state boarding school in the UK.

To get a flavour of what boarding life will be like for your child at Dallam take a look at our boarding handbook.