National BSA Award for Supporting International Boarders

We are proud to announce that ACS International School Cobham has been recognised nationally with the prestigious BSA Award for Supporting International Boarders. Presented by the Boarding Schools’ Association, the award celebrates excellence and innovation in boarding provision and recognises schools that go above and beyond in supporting international students as they transition to life away from home.

For a boarding community representing more than 70 nationalities, this recognition reflects the dedication, care and collaboration that underpin the student experience at ACS Cobham. Our award-winning submission highlighted how the school intentionally creates an environment where international boarders feel safe, connected, supported and empowered to thrive academically, socially and emotionally.

At the heart of our approach are four key principles: prior preparation, human attachments, dedicated time and space, and fostering a positive mindset.

Prior Preparation

Preparing students before they arrive is a vital part of helping them settle confidently into a new country, school and community. Through our Boarding Pass programme, students and families receive tailored guidance, practical information and virtual introductions to peer mentors and house teams before arrival.

From airport pickups and induction weekends to cultural orientation and academic expectations, every detail is designed to reduce uncertainty and help students feel prepared from day one. By creating familiarity before arrival, students are able to transition more smoothly into both school and boarding life.

Building Human Connections

Strong relationships are central to the boarding experience at ACS Cobham. From the moment students arrive, they are surrounded by a network of support that includes peer mentors, house parents, tutors, enrichment leaders and wellbeing staff.

These trusted connections help students feel known, valued and supported as they adapt to a new environment. Mentoring programmes, one-to-one pastoral conversations and small-group activities intentionally create opportunities for students to develop friendships, confidence and a sense of belonging.

For students arriving from war-zone or crisis-affected regions, our Lotus Project provides additional holistic support through collaboration between school staff, families and external agencies, ensuring that emotional, practical and academic needs are carefully supported while maintaining inclusion within the wider boarding community.

Time and Space to Thrive

Settling into a new culture and school environment takes time. At ACS Cobham, boarding life is intentionally designed to provide students with both structure and space to grow at their own pace.

Weekend enrichment programmes, leadership opportunities, cultural celebrations and international cooking nights encourage students to explore new interests, develop confidence and build community connections. Dedicated spaces to study, relax and pursue hobbies support student wellbeing and help foster resilience and independence.

Student participation and leadership within these activities demonstrate the positive impact of creating environments where young people feel supported to contribute and flourish.

A Positive Mindset and Sense of Belonging

Student voice is one of the most powerful indicators of success within our boarding community. Boarders consistently describe how mentorship, daily routines, collaborative learning and shared traditions help them build confidence, resilience and independence.

From flag ceremonies and cultural celebrations to personalised touches such as national anthems on birthdays and adapted meal provisions during Ramadan, boarding life reflects the diversity of the community and reinforces that every student is recognised and celebrated.

These experiences not only support students during their transition to life abroad but also help them develop lifelong skills, friendships and self-belief.

A Community Effort

Winning the BSA Award for Supporting International Boarders is a testament to the collective efforts of students, staff, families and external partners who work together to create a truly inclusive boarding environment.

At ACS International School Cobham, we believe that international relocation should be more than simply adapting to a new environment. It should be an opportunity for growth, discovery and belonging. This national recognition reflects our ongoing commitment to ensuring every boarder feels empowered to succeed and supported every step of the way.

A day in the life of an ACS Cobham Boarding Student