The St Andrew’s College Cambridge taster boarding course Cambridge programme gives students the chance to experience life at a top UK boarding school for a single term. Designed for ages 15 to 19, our one term boarding course Cambridge programme combines academic lessons, daily personal tutoring, full boarding accommodation, extracurricular activities and weekend trips into one self-contained experience. It is the easiest way to try a UK boarding school for international families considering a longer move, and the most natural lead-in to a full GCSE, Pre A-Level, A-Level or University Foundation programme afterwards.
Who is the one term taster course for?
Three groups of students typically join the one term taster course. International families considering a longer UK move who want to test the boarding experience before committing to a full year. Students preparing for a major exam year at home who want a structured term in the British education system to build English and academic confidence. And students looking for an immersive autumn or spring term in a Cambridge academic environment as part of a wider gap-year plan.
What can I expect from a term at St Andrew’s College Cambridge?
Arrival week begins with an airport transfer from London Stansted, Heathrow or Gatwick, a welcome day at college and a boarding-house induction. Lessons begin in the first full week, with each student following a tailored timetable based on their academic interests and proposed next course. Daily personal tutorials run alongside lessons so progress is monitored from the first week. Evenings and weekends combine prep time, sport at the Cambridge University Sports Centre, music, drama, day trips into London, Oxford and the Cotswolds, and the regular social life of a Cambridge boarding house. End-of-term feedback closes the experience with a written report, a personal tutor meeting and a clear recommendation on the right next step.
After Your Term
Can I extend my taster term into a full course?
Yes. Many taster students continue into a full programme at St Andrew’s after their term ends. Typical next steps include our one-year GCSE, Pre A-Level, A-Level or University Foundation Course, with the term feeding directly into a planned September, January or April start. Our admissions team will confirm progression options at the end-of-term feedback meeting.
What does the one term taster boarding course in Cambridge cost?
Course and accommodation fees are charged on a per-term basis and depend on the level of course (GCSE, Pre A-Level, A-Level or Foundation) and the type of room (single ensuite, twin ensuite or superior single). All fees include tuition, full board, weekly trips, college extracurriculars and pastoral support. Full per-term figures are listed in the fee table below and on our main fees page.
