Introduction
Once you’ve secured a school place, the next question is usually: “How will my child actually get there?” Whether you’re travelling from overseas, the Channel Islands, or another part of Europe, getting your child to and from school termly is a logistical task worth planning well in advance.
This guide covers everything from flight routes and airport hubs to school transfers, luggage planning, and what to expect on arrival—helping you build a stress-free routine around school travel.
Choosing the Right UK Airport
The UK has a wide range of international airports, but not all are equally convenient for boarding schools. While London Heathrow is the most popular entry point, many families opt for regional alternatives to cut down transfer time and avoid traffic.
Here are the most commonly used airports, depending on school location:
- London schools: Heathrow (LHR), Gatwick (LGW), City (LCY)
- South & Southwest England: Southampton (SOU), Bristol (BRS), Bournemouth (BOH)
- Midlands: Birmingham (BHX), East Midlands (EMA)
- North of England: Manchester (MAN), Leeds Bradford (LBA), Liverpool (LPL)
- Scotland: Edinburgh (EDI), Glasgow (GLA)
Tip: Many boarding schools publish guidance on their preferred airports and may offer scheduled transfers on fixed term dates.
Booking Flights Around Term Dates
UK boarding schools typically have a structured calendar, with long holidays at Christmas, Easter, and summer, and shorter half-term or exeat breaks.
Plan flights with these in mind:
- Avoid last-minute fares by booking early—especially for summer departures
- Midweek travel is often cheaper and less crowded than weekend flights
- If your child is flying solo, look for airlines with unaccompanied minor services, such as British Airways, Emirates, Lufthansa, and Etihad
Always cross-reference your flight plans with the school’s term dates and confirm whether the school offers airport drop-offs and pickups.
School Transfers: Getting to Campus
Most boarding schools offer support with transport from major UK airports on designated travel days. Options typically include:
- School-organised coaches or minibuses
- Recommended private drivers with DBS checks and school clearance
- Guardian pickups, arranged through your registered UK-based guardian
If your child is arriving on a different day or outside normal hours, notify the school and coordinate directly with their transport office or houseparent.
Tip: For families new to the UK, it’s helpful to schedule arrivals during daylight hours for an easier first-day experience.
What About Luggage?
For termly travel, students usually fly with:
- A suitcase or large duffel (for clothes, school kit)
- A carry-on or backpack (for essentials, travel documents, entertainment)
Most students leave bulkier items like uniforms, sports gear, and winter coats at school in their dorm room or trunk between terms.
If needed, many families use:
- Courier services (e.g. DHL, MyBaggage) for international shipping
- Storage services in the UK during long breaks
Make sure your child packs key items in hand luggage in case of delays.
Managing Jet Lag & Travel Recovery
Students travelling long distances—such as from the Middle East, East Asia, or the US—may need a day or two to settle after arrival.
Schools typically help students:
- Unpack and organise their space
- Attend low-key orientation events
- Reconnect with boarding housemates and tutors
Encourage your child to stay hydrated, eat lightly during flights, and sleep according to UK time zones once they land.
Helpful Travel Extras
- UK SIM card: Buy in advance or at the airport to ensure contact during arrival
- Power adapter: UK uses 3-pin Type G plugs (230V)
- Weather-appropriate clothing: UK weather can change quickly—layers are key
- Preloaded travel card: For older students, consider a preloaded debit card or Oyster card if they’ll be in London
Final Thoughts
Getting to and from a UK boarding school becomes second nature after the first term or two but it’s worth over-planning early on. By choosing the right airport, pre-arranging transfers, and understanding how your child will travel independently over time, you can make the process smooth and reassuring for the whole family.
If you’d like help understanding airport options for your child’s chosen school or need guidance arranging term-time travel from your country Prestige Football Schools is here to assist.
