Student FAQ’s

Senior

Welcome to the Gordonstoun Student FAQ page!

Get firsthand insights from current students about what life is really like at our school. From academics to boarding life, we've got tips to help you make the most of your time here.

What is the daily schedule like at Gordonstoun?
A typical day starts with breakfast which is available from 7:30 a.m. in the Refectory. Then the whole school gathers for Chapel before heading to lessons, which run till midday with a short break at 10:50 a.m. Lunch offers a welcome opportunity to refuel and socialise with friends before afternoon lessons. Afternoons include games, projects or services depending on the day of the week. In the evening, we come together for Supper and House Meetings, followed by dedicated prep time to stay on top of our studies. Afterwards, we have some free time to unwind, whether it's through relaxation or taking part in clubs and societies.

What is the daily schedule like at Gordonstoun?

A typical day starts with breakfast which is available from 7:30 a.m. in the Refectory. Then the whole school gathers for Chapel before heading to lessons, which run till midday with a short break at 10:50 a.m.

Lunch offers a welcome opportunity to refuel and socialise with friends before afternoon lessons. Afternoons include games, projects or services depending on the day of the week.

In the evening, we come together for Supper and House Meetings, followed by dedicated prep time to stay on top of our studies.

Afterwards, we have some free time to unwind, whether it's through relaxation or taking part in clubs and societies.

What are boarding houses like at Gordonstoun?
All the houses are unique with their own thriving communities, but they all share a cosy and welcoming atmosphere that makes everyone feel right at home. In the boarding house, our House Parent, Assistant House Parents, and Matrons are always there for us, whether it's to offer advice, organise fun house activities, or simply be someone to chat with. They've got our backs and make sure we feel supported and looked after.

What are boarding houses like at Gordonstoun?

All the houses are unique with their own thriving communities, but they all share a cosy and welcoming atmosphere that makes everyone feel right at home.

In the boarding house, our House Parent, Assistant House Parents, and Matrons are always there for us, whether it's to offer advice, organise fun house activities, or simply be someone to chat with.

They've got our backs and make sure we feel supported and looked after.

What are some of the activities I can do at Gordonstoun?
Activities cater to everyone with a huge amount of choice available from horse riding to golf, volleyball to Krav Maga as well as climbing with our own indoor climbing wall however I am only listing a few of the diverse range of activities incorporated into the curriculum. Students also have the chance to attend skiing, outdoor climbing, kayaking and so many more activities outside of curriculum hours.

What are some of the activities I can do at Gordonstoun?

Activities cater to everyone with a huge amount of choice available from horse riding to golf, volleyball to Krav Maga as well as climbing with our own indoor climbing wall however I am only listing a few of the diverse range of activities incorporated into the curriculum.

Students also have the chance to attend skiing, outdoor climbing, kayaking and so many more activities outside of curriculum hours.

What is the food like at Gordonstoun?
There are always lots of options from theatre, pasta, soup, vegetarian, main and so many more. ‘Fish and Chip Fridays’ are very popular along with pancakes at breakfast. Formal meals are something everybody also looks forward to with Jamie (the head chef at Gordonstoun) always providing us with delicious food to enjoy on every occasion and from many different countries' cuisines especially during “International week,” where a range of countries' national dishes feature in the refectory.

What is the food like at Gordonstoun?

There are always lots of options from theatre, pasta, soup, vegetarian, main and so many more. ‘Fish and Chip Fridays’ are very popular along with pancakes at breakfast.

Formal meals are something everybody also looks forward to with Jamie (the head chef at Gordonstoun) always providing us with delicious food to enjoy on every occasion and from many different countries' cuisines especially during “International week,” where a range of countries' national dishes feature in the refectory.

How is the student community and social life at Gordonstoun?
The student community at Gordonstoun is incredibly diverse and vibrant, which makes for an enriching social life. With students coming from all over the world, you get to interact with people from different cultures and backgrounds. There are plenty of opportunities to socialise, whether it's during meals, in the common areas, or through the various clubs and activities on offer. Your boarding house truly becomes like a second family, with housemates and houseparents providing support, encouragement, and companionship throughout your time at school. Whether it's sharing meals together, studying late into the night, or participating in house competitions and activities, the bonds formed are incredibly strong. It's a place where you can always feel comfortable and supported.

How is the student community and social life at Gordonstoun?

The student community at Gordonstoun is incredibly diverse and vibrant, which makes for an enriching social life. With students coming from all over the world, you get to interact with people from different cultures and backgrounds.

There are plenty of opportunities to socialise, whether it's during meals, in the common areas, or through the various clubs and activities on offer.

Your boarding house truly becomes like a second family, with housemates and houseparents providing support, encouragement, and companionship throughout your time at school.

Whether it's sharing meals together, studying late into the night, or participating in house competitions and activities, the bonds formed are incredibly strong. It's a place where you can always feel comfortable and supported.

Am I allowed to use my phone at Gordonstoun?
There is a strict mobile phone policy at Gordonstoun. We are not allowed to use phones during the school day, but depending on age, we can in the evenings and weekends. If your family live overseas you can get special permission to use your phone at other times to make sure you can call home.

Am I allowed to use my phone at Gordonstoun?

There is a strict mobile phone policy at Gordonstoun. We are not allowed to use phones during the school day, but depending on age, we can in the evenings and weekends.

If your family live overseas you can get special permission to use your phone at other times to make sure you can call home.

Do you have school on Saturdays at Gordonstoun?
We do have some school activities on Saturdays, but it's not your typical full day of classes. We usually have lessons until around 12:15 p.m. After lunch, the afternoon is dedicated to sports fixtures, activities, or weekend expeditions. In the evenings there are dances/socials, cinema trips and more.

Do you have school on Saturdays at Gordonstoun?

We do have some school activities on Saturdays, but it's not your typical full day of classes. We usually have lessons until around 12:15 p.m.

After lunch, the afternoon is dedicated to sports fixtures, activities, or weekend expeditions. In the evenings there are dances/socials, cinema trips and more.

What is the best part about boarding at Gordonstoun?
The best thing about boarding at Gordonstoun has to be the sense of camaraderie and community within your boarding house. Living together creates strong bonds that extend far beyond just classmates. But if I had to pick one highlight, it would definitely be our "Brews". These are informal gatherings, where students come together in their boarding houses, over food and drink, to unwind and relax with their housemates. It's moments like these that make boarding at Gordonstoun feel like being part of a big, supportive family.

What is the best part about boarding at Gordonstoun?

The best thing about boarding at Gordonstoun has to be the sense of camaraderie and community within your boarding house. Living together creates strong bonds that extend far beyond just classmates.

But if I had to pick one highlight, it would definitely be our "Brews". These are informal gatherings, where students come together in their boarding houses, over food and drink, to unwind and relax with their housemates.

It's moments like these that make boarding at Gordonstoun feel like being part of a big, supportive family.

What is your favourite thing about Gordonstoun?
My favourite aspect would undoubtedly be the people, be they staff or students. The staff are always exceedingly friendly and are always looking out for you and the diversity within the student body, stemming from the school's international nature, promotes a sense of inclusion and understanding as well as providing a space to learn about and appreciate other cultures. This, I believe, builds a strong and compassionate school community which is conducive to success within many disciplines.

What is your favourite thing about Gordonstoun?

My favourite aspect would undoubtedly be the people, be they staff or students.

The staff are always exceedingly friendly and are always looking out for you and the diversity within the student body, stemming from the school's international nature, promotes a sense of inclusion and understanding as well as providing a space to learn about and appreciate other cultures.

This, I believe, builds a strong and compassionate school community which is conducive to success within many disciplines.

Are there any unique traditions or events that happen at Gordonstoun?
Every year, Round Square (boarding house) decorates a large Christmas tree and places it in the centre of the house (it is a round circular house which has a lawn in the middle of it.) This makes a very tempting target for some, since it has been captured multiple times by other boarding houses! The charity Barbershop groups at Valentines each year are always entertaining, especially when teachers end up on the receiving end of a serenade in front of the rest of the school. Perhaps the most anticipated event would be the Ronnie Berry Rock and Jazz Concert which takes place every Summer. It takes place outside, featuring performances from students of all ages, and all students, as well as parents are welcome. It tends to be a highly enjoyable afternoon, especially if the weather's nice, and the quality of the music is always outstanding.

Are there any unique traditions or events that happen at Gordonstoun?

Every year, Round Square (boarding house) decorates a large Christmas tree and places it in the centre of the house (it is a round circular house which has a lawn in the middle of it.) This makes a very tempting target for some, since it has been captured multiple times by other boarding houses!

The charity Barbershop groups at Valentines each year are always entertaining, especially when teachers end up on the receiving end of a serenade in front of the rest of the school.

Perhaps the most anticipated event would be the Ronnie Berry Rock and Jazz Concert which takes place every Summer. It takes place outside, featuring performances from students of all ages, and all students, as well as parents are welcome.

It tends to be a highly enjoyable afternoon, especially if the weather's nice, and the quality of the music is always outstanding.

How accessible are teachers for extra help outside of class hours?
Each of us is assigned a dedicated tutor, and we meet with them twice a week. These sessions aren't just about academics; they're also a chance to chat about how we're doing overall, ensuring that we're not just succeeding academically, but also thriving personally. Whether it's clearing up a tricky concept or just needing someone to talk to, our tutors are there for us every step of the way!

How accessible are teachers for extra help outside of class hours?

Each of us is assigned a dedicated tutor, and we meet with them twice a week. These sessions aren't just about academics; they're also a chance to chat about how we're doing overall, ensuring that we're not just succeeding academically, but also thriving personally.

Whether it's clearing up a tricky concept or just needing someone to talk to, our tutors are there for us every step of the way!

What recreational facilities are available on campus?
There's something for everyone, whether you're into sports, arts, or just chilling out with friends. We've got extensive sports fields for football, rugby, and hockey, plus indoor facilities for activities like basketball and badminton, a climbing wall, an indoor pool, the gym and a firing range all on campus. If you're more into the arts, there are music practice rooms, an art studio, and even a theatre for performances. And when you just want to unwind, there are cosy common rooms and outdoor spaces where you can relax and hang out with friends.

What recreational facilities are available on campus?

There's something for everyone, whether you're into sports, arts, or just chilling out with friends.

We've got extensive sports fields for football, rugby, and hockey, plus indoor facilities for activities like basketball and badminton, a climbing wall, an indoor pool, the gym and a firing range all on campus.

If you're more into the arts, there are music practice rooms, an art studio, and even a theatre for performances.

And when you just want to unwind, there are cosy common rooms and outdoor spaces where you can relax and hang out with friends.

How do students typically spend their weekends at Gordonstoun?
During weekends at Gordonstoun, we have a wide range of activities on our doorstep, from exploring local beaches, to going to the cinema or bowling alley, or visiting historic landmarks like Duffus Castle. We also have lots of activities available right here on campus, like our swimming pool, climbing wall, dance studio, theatre, and state-of-the-art sports centre.

How do students typically spend their weekends at Gordonstoun?

During weekends at Gordonstoun, we have a wide range of activities on our doorstep, from exploring local beaches, to going to the cinema or bowling alley, or visiting historic landmarks like Duffus Castle.

We also have lots of activities available right here on campus, like our swimming pool, climbing wall, dance studio, theatre, and state-of-the-art sports centre.

What is the dress code like at Gordonstoun?
During the school day we either wear our day uniform or a formal uniform. The day uniform is a light blue jumper with a white chequered shirt and either a set of dark grey trousers or a dark grey skirt. The formal uniform is a suit for boys often accompanied with their house tie, and a blouse with a calf-length kilt is worn for girls accompanied by an optional dark green jumper and topped with a blazer.

What is the dress code like at Gordonstoun?

During the school day we either wear our day uniform or a formal uniform. The day uniform is a light blue jumper with a white chequered shirt and either a set of dark grey trousers or a dark grey skirt.

The formal uniform is a suit for boys often accompanied with their house tie, and a blouse with a calf-length kilt is worn for girls accompanied by an optional dark green jumper and topped with a blazer.

Where can I go shopping?
The nearest town is Elgin which has all the essentials, but if you're looking to go clothes shopping or on a fun day out, the cities of Aberdeen and Inverness are the best options.

Do you feel looked after and supported at Gordonstoun?
Yes, we have a vast range of support systems including the staff in our boarding houses who are all very observant and aware of when something is not quite right even if you don’t say anything. We also have the healthcare centre who are equipped to deal with a range of both mental and physical wellness issues.

Do you feel looked after and supported at Gordonstoun?

Yes, we have a vast range of support systems including the staff in our boarding houses who are all very observant and aware of when something is not quite right even if you don’t say anything.

We also have the healthcare centre who are equipped to deal with a range of both mental and physical wellness issues.

Will I have to share a bedroom?
Year 9, most of us share dorms with three or four other pupils. It's a great way to make friends - there's always someone to talk to or share a laugh with. Moving into Year 10, we have just one roommate, which offers a bit more privacy while still maintaining that sense of camaraderie. By the time you reach Years 12 and 13, you'll have a room to yourself, allowing for increased independence and a private space to focus on your studies.

Will I have to share a bedroom?

Year 9, most of us share dorms with three or four other pupils. It's a great way to make friends - there's always someone to talk to or share a laugh with.

Moving into Year 10, we have just one roommate, which offers a bit more privacy while still maintaining that sense of camaraderie.

By the time you reach Years 12 and 13, you'll have a room to yourself, allowing for increased independence and a private space to focus on your studies.

Is it easy to get to Gordonstoun?
Absolutely! While it might not be right in the middle of a bustling city, the school provides plenty of transportation options to ensure students can travel here comfortably. Whether you're coming from nearby towns or cities or even from farther afield, there are reliable bus routes, train stations, and airports within reach. Plus, the school organises transportation services for students arriving at the beginning of each term, making the journey hassle-free.

Is it easy to get to Gordonstoun?

Absolutely! While it might not be right in the middle of a bustling city, the school provides plenty of transportation options to ensure students can travel here comfortably.

Whether you're coming from nearby towns or cities or even from farther afield, there are reliable bus routes, train stations, and airports within reach.

Plus, the school organises transportation services for students arriving at the beginning of each term, making the journey hassle-free.

Does everyone go home for leave out weekends and half term?
Not necessarily! While many students may choose to head home for leave out and half term, those who live further away often opt to stay at school. Gordonstoun offers the option to stay with a local guardian for those who prefer it, or you can remain on campus.

Does everyone go home for leave out weekends and half term?

Not necessarily! While many students may choose to head home for leave out and half term, those who live further away often opt to stay at school.

Gordonstoun offers the option to stay with a local guardian for those who prefer it, or you can remain on campus.

What is a colour bearer?
A colour bearer at Gordonstoun is essentially a prefect. They are representatives for the student body and work to make the school better by listening to what we need.

Who can I talk to if I have a concern?
If you ever have a concern at Gordonstoun, there are plenty of people ready to help. Our pastoral staff, including houseparents, assistants, and matrons, are always available to provide support and care. For more personal issues, our pastoral care team includes counsellors and the school Chaplain. And if you need academic assistance, your Tutor is there to support you and discuss your progress regularly. So, no matter what you're facing, there's always someone here to listen and help at Gordonstoun.

Who can I talk to if I have a concern?

If you ever have a concern at Gordonstoun, there are plenty of people ready to help.

Our pastoral staff, including houseparents, assistants, and matrons, are always available to provide support and care.

For more personal issues, our pastoral care team includes counsellors and the school Chaplain. And if you need academic assistance, your Tutor is there to support you and discuss your progress regularly.

So, no matter what you're facing, there's always someone here to listen and help at Gordonstoun.

Will my religion or faith be supported at Gordonstoun?
At Gordonstoun, there are students of all faiths and backgrounds. Whether you're Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, or follow any other religion, you'll find a welcoming and inclusive environment here. At school there are special accommodations to ensure that students can practise their faith comfortably. For instance, during Ramadan, there are adjusted timetables and alternative meal times for available fasting students. Our school chaplain also organises visits to places of worship for all faiths, fostering understanding and respect among our diverse community.

Will my religion or faith be supported at Gordonstoun?

At Gordonstoun, there are students of all faiths and backgrounds. Whether you're Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, or follow any other religion, you'll find a welcoming and inclusive environment here.

At school there are special accommodations to ensure that students can practise their faith comfortably. For instance, during Ramadan, there are adjusted timetables and alternative meal times for available fasting students.

Our school chaplain also organises visits to places of worship for all faiths, fostering understanding and respect among our diverse community.

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EXPERIENCE
GORDONSTOUN

PREP SCHOOL

SENIOR SCHOOL

SIXTH FORM

BOARDING

SUMMER CAMPS

OUR COMMUNITY

ADMISSIONS

POPULAR LINKS

SENIOR SCHOOL

Student FAQs

Student FAQ’s

Discover more...

Pastoral Care

Broader Curriculum

Student FAQs

Academic Curriculum

Life at Gordonstoun

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EXPERIENCE
GORDONSTOUN