Introduction
For many Jersey-based families, UK boarding schools are the natural next step offering greater subject choice, broader co-curricular options, and a tried-and-tested academic pathway. With direct flights, shared language, and no visa requirements, the move is smooth and manageable.
This guide walks you through everything you need to prepare from school admissions and guardianship to banking, healthcare, and settling into life away from home.
No Visa or Immigration Requirements
As a Crown Dependency, Jersey sits outside the UK but maintains a special relationship with it. If your child holds a British passport and is ordinarily resident in Jersey, no UK visa is required to attend school.
However, most UK boarding schools will still request standard documents during the application process, such as:
- A copy of your child’s passport
- Proof of residence in Jersey
- Any existing school reports or references
School Entry and Placement
The academic system in Jersey mirrors that of England, so school placement is generally straightforward.
Most UK schools place students based on their age as of 1 September in the year of entry:
- Age 13 → Year 9
- Age 14 → Year 10 (start of GCSEs)
- Age 16 → Year 12 (start of A-Levels or IB)
Admissions processes typically include:
- Copies of recent school reports
- A reference from your child’s current school
- Online or in-person entrance assessments
- An interview (either virtual or on-site)
Some selective schools may also request a personal statement or conduct taster days.
Guardianship Requirements Still Apply
Even though there’s no visa involved, UK boarding schools still require a UK-based guardian for all students under 18. This person is responsible for your child during holidays, exeat weekends, or in emergencies.
Options include:
- Appointing a relative or family friend living in the UK
-
Partnering with a guardianship agency, which can offer:
- Host family arrangements
- Travel support during breaks
- 24/7 availability and pastoral care
- Representation at school events
- A formal guardianship agreement is normally required before the first day of term.
Accessing Healthcare
While Jersey has its own healthcare system, families sending children to UK boarding schools should understand how NHS access works.
Students relocating to the UK for school are expected to:
- Register with a local NHS GP upon arrival at school
- Be covered by a reciprocal agreement for emergency care
- Consider private health insurance to cover any gaps, such as elective procedures or specialist care
Most UK schools provide access to in-house nurses and have arrangements with nearby GPs or dental practices.
Student Banking Options
Opening a UK bank account helps students manage daily spending, receive allowance top-ups, and learn independent money habits.
Popular routes include:
- For younger students: High street youth accounts with Barclays, NatWest, or Lloyds (with parental oversight)
- For older students (16+): Digital options like Monzo or Starling, which offer user-friendly apps, instant transfers, and budgeting tools
Transferring money from a Jersey account to a UK account is quick and generally fee-free. Some families also use Wise for flexible currency transfers or shared digital wallets.
Practical Life Considerations
Flights & travel: There are regular direct flights from Jersey to London, Southampton, Manchester, and other regional airports. Most schools assist with travel planning at the start and end of term.
Phones: Switching to a UK SIM is common and cost-effective. Providers like EE, giffgaff, and Vodafone offer good student plans.
Uniforms & packing: UK boarding schools typically have specific uniform and sports kit requirements. Weather-appropriate layers and a smart coat are must-haves.
Pastoral care: Boarding houses offer built-in support houseparents, tutors, and peer mentors help students settle and thrive.
Final Thoughts
For Jersey families, relocating to a UK boarding school is a simple but significant step. The cultural and logistical similarities make for an easy adjustment, and students benefit from world-class teaching and a wide range of co-curricular options.
Planning ahead especially with guardianship, banking, and healthcare helps smooth the transition. And if you’re seeking support with applications, school selection, or onboarding logistics, Prestige Football Schools is here to help guide your family every step of the way.
