Somerset is home to a diverse range of private schools, including day schools, independent schools, and boarding schools. From nurturing preparatory schools to senior schools with established sixth form pathways, Somerset offers educational options to suit different children and family priorities.

This guide focuses specifically on private (fee-paying) schools in Somerset, helping parents understand the landscape, what makes these schools distinctive, and how to choose the right fit. For a broader overview of all schools in the county, including state schools, see our guide to schools in Somerset.

Are there private schools in Somerset?

Somerset has a strong selection of independent schools covering early years, primary, secondary, and sixth form education. While most private schools in Somerset are day schools, several offer flexible or full boarding options, particularly for senior school pupils.

These fee-paying schools attract families locally and from across the UK, as well as international families, thanks to their academic standards, pastoral care, and broad extracurricular programmes.

Private and independent prep and junior schools in Somerset: What to expect

Preparatory schools in Somerset typically educate children from nursery age through to 11 or 13. These schools focus on small class sizes, individualised attention, and a broad curriculum that prepares pupils for senior school entrance exams, including the 11+ or 13+.

Private secondary and boarding schools in Somerset

Somerset’s senior schools and boarding schools offer strong academic results, pastoral care, and wide-ranging extracurricular programmes in sports, arts, music, and leadership.

Boarding schools in Somerset provide flexible options, including weekly and full boarding. They are particularly popular with families from busy professional backgrounds or international students seeking structured environments during the school week.

Fee-paying schools in Somerset

All Hallows School, Somerset

Ages: Nursery to Year 8 (13)
Type: Day & boarding
Gender: Co‑educational

Brymore Academy, Bridgwater

Ages: 11–18
Type: Day & boarding
Gender: Co-educational
State-funded boarding school

Downside School, Stratton‑on‑the‑Fosse

Ages: 11–18
Type: Day & boarding
Gender: Co‑educational

Hazlegrove Preparatory School, Sparkford

Ages: 2–13
Type: Day & boarding
Gender: Co‑educational

King’s College, Taunton

Ages: 13–18
Type: Day & boarding
Gender: Co-educational

King’s College Prep School, Taunton

Ages: 3–13
Type: Day & boarding
Gender: Co-educational

Queen’s College, Taunton

Ages: 0–18
Type: Day & boarding
Gender: Co‑educational

Millfield Preparatory School, Street

Ages: 2–13
Type: Day & boarding
Gender: Co-educational

Millfield School, Street

Ages: 13–18
Type: Day & boarding
Gender: Co-educational

Sidcot School, Winscombe

Ages: 3–18
Type: Day & boarding
Gender: Co-educational

Wells Cathedral Junior School

Ages: 3–11
Type: Day school
Gender: Co-educational

Wells Cathedral School

Ages: 2–18
Type: Day & boarding
Gender: Co-educational

Wellington School, Wellington

Ages: 3–18
Type: Day & boarding
Gender: Co‑educational

Admissions to private schools in Somerset

Independent schools manage their own admissions timelines and processes, typically involving:

Registration (often well in advance)
Entrance assessments or interviews
School reports or references

If you are looking for private schools in Somerset, you may also find the following guides useful:

Frequently asked questions: Private schools Somerset

What are the best private schools in Somerset?

Somerset offers a wide range of independent schools for all ages. The “best” school, however, depends on your child’s needs, academic goals, and whether you are looking for day or boarding options.

Are there boarding schools in Somerset?

Yes, several independent schools in Somerset offer boarding. Popular options include Millfield School, King’s College Taunton, Wellington School, and Sidcot School. Boarding can be full-time or weekly, depending on the school.

How much do private schools in Somerset cost?

Tuition fees vary widely depending on the school, age group, and boarding options. Day school fees typically range from £12,000 to £20,000 per year, while boarding fees can increase total costs to £30,000 or more annually. Private schools in Somerset are also subject to VAT. Many schools do offer scholarships or bursaries.

What is the difference between a private school and an independent school in Somerset?

In Somerset, “private school” and “independent school” are often used interchangeably. Both are fee-paying schools independent of local authority control, offering flexible curricula, smaller class sizes, and enhanced extracurricular opportunities.

Are there preparatory (prep) schools in Somerset?

Yes, many independent schools in Somerset have preparatory sections for children aged 2–13, and many of these feed into established fee-paying senior schools in Somerset. Examples include Hazlegrove Preparatory School, Millfield Preparatory School, and King’s College Preparatory School. Prep schools focus on small classes and academic preparation for senior schools.

How do I choose the right private school in Somerset?

Consider factors like class sizes, academic results, pastoral support, extracurricular programmes, boarding options, school ethos, and location. Visiting schools and speaking with staff and current parents is essential to find the best fit.

When should I start applying to private schools in Somerset?

Applications often open 1–2 years before entry. Early years/nursery applications can be made even earlier. Senior school applications typically involve registration, entrance assessments, interviews, and school reports.

Are there co-educational private schools in Somerset?

Yes, most Somerset independent schools are co-educational, including Millfield School, Wells Cathedral School, and Sidcot School.

Can international students attend Somerset boarding schools?

Absolutely. Many boarding schools in Somerset, like Millfield, King’s College Taunton, and Wellington School, welcome international students and provide English language support where needed.

Do Somerset private schools offer scholarships or bursaries?

Yes, many independent schools provide academic, music, or sports scholarships, as well as means-tested bursaries to support families with fees. Eligibility criteria varies by school.