Boarding art school in England: discover Rochester Independent College
Rochester Independent College attracts attention not only for its educational quality, but for a detail that few know: 60% of its students are British. This fact reveals something extraordinary about an institution that won the trust of English families themselves to train their children.
Located just 30 minutes from London, this school offers a unique approach to teaching the arts. Unlike traditional British boarding schools, students don't wear uniforms here. This freedom reflects the progressive mentality of an institution that places creativity at the center of learning.
Why choose an arts-focused boarding school
Artistic education in the United Kingdom has characteristics that make it a world reference. Rochester Independent College exemplifies this excellence by maintaining classes of no more than 12 students, ensuring individualized attention for each student.
The school received the award for the best high school arts school in the United Kingdom in 2024. This recognition did not come by accident. The institution developed a direct partnership with the University of Arts London (UAL), one of the most prestigious art universities globally.
Main areas offered:
- Fine Art and Photography
- Graphic Design and Fashion
- Cinema and Digital Media Studies
- Performing Arts and Music
- Ceramics and Textiles
Infrastructure that inspires creativity
The facilities at Rochester Independent College impress with their completeness and modernity. The art studios are dedicated and equipped with cutting-edge technology. The traditional photographic laboratory (darkroom) coexists harmoniously with five laboratories equipped with professional software.
The school has a movie theater on its own campus where students premiere their short films. The textile studios have computer-assisted embroidery machines, while the ceramic space offers professional lathes.
This infrastructure allows students to explore different artistic languages simultaneously. A student may, for example, study A-Level in Fine Art and Photography while actively participating in theatrical productions.
Cultural diversity as a differential
With representatives of 49 nationalities, the multicultural environment of Rochester Independent College offers a unique cultural immersion. For Brazilian students interested in High school abroad, this diversity represents a valuable opportunity for international networking.
Boarding also works on weekends, eliminating the common concern of many families about where their children are staying during these periods. This continuity in care demonstrates the institution's commitment to the full well-being of students.
The proximity to London offers exceptional educational advantages. Students have regular access to museums, galleries, theaters, and cultural events in the English capital. These experiences naturally complement formal classroom learning.
Innovative pedagogical approach
Rochester Independent College adopts a methodology that they call the development of the “creative voice”. This concept goes beyond traditional technical education, encouraging each student to find their authentic artistic expression.
Curricular flexibility allows for unique combinations between different artistic disciplines. Students can choose between A-Levels, GCSEs, or the BTEC Extended Diploma in Performing Arts, which is equivalent to three A-Levels focused on theater.
Recent recognitions:
- ISA National Award for Excellence and Innovation in Fine Arts
- BSA Khadija Saye Photography Award (multiple years)
- Selections for Royal Academy Student Summer Exhibition
- Top Award at the 50th Royal Society of Chemistry Olympiad
Preparing for elite universities
Rochester Independent College's approval record is impressive with its consistency. For the past five years, the University of Arts London has been the primary destination for graduates, demonstrating the quality of the preparation offered.
For young Brazilians considering vocational programs or those interested in exploring artistic careers, this successful trajectory offers concrete prospects for the future.
The school encourages students to create their own galleries of their work and to curate individual exhibitions. Works are regularly published in annual catalogs, creating a professional portfolio from an early age.
Digital media receives treatment equivalent to traditional fine arts. Students work with animation, installation and projection, mobile games, and visual poetry, preparing for the contemporary demands of the creative market.
Student life and personal development
The uneven environment at Rochester Independent College reflects an educational philosophy that values individuality. This approach helps to train more confident and creative young people.
Extracurricular activities include diverse clubs, cultural events, and student leadership opportunities. The boarding system offers ongoing pastoral support, ensuring that international students feel welcomed and safe.
For Brazilian families exploring options for international education, Rochester Independent College represents a differentiated alternative in the British educational scene.
Be Easy
Be Easy understands that choosing a boarding school abroad involves much more than academic excellence. Our specialized team accompanies the entire process, from selecting the ideal institution to providing support during your stay in the United Kingdom. With our experience in international educational programs, we ensure that your artistic journey starts off on the right foot. Contact us and discover how we can make this dream a reality.
