Relocating to the UK for your child’s education is a life-changing decision—and one that opens the door to world-class academics, elite sporting pathways, and a truly global learning environment. Whether your child is joining a traditional UK boarding school or a specialist football academy, the move requires careful planning, especially if you’re applying from overseas.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key steps to moving to the UK for school, covering everything from choosing the right institution to visa preparation, guardianship, and how Prestige Football Schools can help your family transition smoothly.
Why Families Choose UK Boarding Schools
The UK is home to some of the world’s most prestigious boarding schools, known for:
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Academic excellence and preparation for global universities
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Elite-level sports development, including football, rugby, and tennis
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Strong pastoral care and support for international students
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Rich traditions, cultural immersion, and boarding house life
For aspiring footballers, a UK education provides access to structured development programmes that run alongside academics. At Prestige Football Schools, we help international families identify schools that balance both seamlessly.
Step 1: Choose the Right School
The first step is shortlisting schools that fit your child’s academic needs, personality, and goals. Key questions to consider:
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Does the school offer the right curriculum (GCSE, A-Level, IB)?
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What football or co-curricular opportunities are available?
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Is the school experienced in supporting international students?
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What are the school’s university destinations or professional pathways?
Our Football School Advisory matches families with schools that offer strong football and academic options—with placements tailored to each player’s level and potential.
Step 2: Apply & Prepare for Assessment
Once you've selected your top choices, the admissions process usually involves:
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Academic reports and teacher references
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Personal statement or motivation letter
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English language proficiency (if required)
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Interview (online or in person)
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Football CV or highlight reel (for sport-based applicants)
Some schools also require entrance exams. Our Application & Admissions Support helps international families prepare thoroughly for each stage, including interview coaching and document review.
Step 3: Secure a Child Student Visa
If your child is aged 4–17 and planning to study at a UK independent school for more than six months, they’ll need a Child Student visa. You’ll need to:
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Receive a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from the school
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Show proof of funding
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Provide parental consent and documents
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Book an appointment for a biometric residence permit (BRP)
Visa processing can take several weeks, so we recommend applying as early as possible once a school place is confirmed. Our team can help ensure your documents are submitted correctly and on time.
Step 4: Arrange Guardianship
All international students under the age of 18 must have a UK-based guardian. Guardians provide:
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Emergency support if parents can’t be reached
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Holiday hosting if the school closes
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Help with travel, uniform, and school communication
Some schools offer in-house guardianship, while others require you to appoint an external provider. We work with families to ensure all guardianship arrangements meet UK safeguarding standards.
Step 5: Prepare for the Move
Once the school place, visa, and guardianship are confirmed, it’s time to prepare your child for the transition. This includes:
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Booking travel and airport transfers
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Purchasing school uniform and boarding supplies
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Setting up a UK bank account (if required)
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Planning communication routines (calls, emails, video chats)
We offer full relocation and settling-in support, especially for families sending children to the UK for the first time. From packing lists to pastoral care briefings, we’ll ensure nothing is overlooked.
Step 6: Build Confidence Before Term Starts
To help your child feel confident and prepared:
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Discuss what boarding life will look like
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Encourage independence with tasks like packing, time management, and laundry
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Arrange pre-term catch-ups with houseparents or coaches
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Consider enrolling in our mentorship programme for additional emotional and sporting support
If your child is also joining a football school, our advisors will liaise with coaches to make sure their training and integration are well supported from day one.
How Prestige Football Schools Helps International Families
We provide end-to-end support for families moving to the UK for school. Our services include:
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School and academy matching
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Application management and document support
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Visa and guardianship guidance
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Relocation logistics and ongoing player mentorship
Explore our full list of services here or get in touch to book a consultation.
Final Thoughts
Moving to the UK for school is a bold and exciting step—and one that opens the door to new friendships, world-class education, and elite football opportunities. With the right planning and trusted support, your child can thrive from the very beginning.
For official information on studying in the UK, visit gov.uk or the Independent Schools Council for further insights into UK boarding education.
Ready to begin your journey? Speak to Prestige Football Schools and let’s build your child’s future together.
