What to expect on the day
This is a relaxed, walk-in event – no need to book a time slot or wait for an appointment. Come any time between 16:00–20:00, and you'll have Sara and Nikki's full attention for as long as you need.
Between them, Sara and Nikki bring over 27 years of experience and up-to-date knowledge of over 350 UK boarding schools. Every question – admissions, fees, guardianship, what type of school might suit your child – gets a straight, unhurried answer, in person, on the day. There's no obligation to decide anything on the day – it's simply a chance to ask questions and get honest guidance before you do.
The Fairmont, Riyadh
Wednesday 11th November 2026, 16:00 – 20:00. Free entry.
Get to know our Education Consultants, Sara & Nikki
Sara Sparling
Sara Sparling
Director and Education Consultant
Sara Sparling, Director and Education Consultant, travels frequently to the Gulf countries and Africa to meet local and expat families considering a UK boarding school, summer or language programme. Her experience as a teacher, ex-pat wife, mother of three children and as a boarder herself, enables her to understand the needs and concerns of parents. Whilst in the UK Sara makes regular school visits to identify what is unique and special about each boarding school and ensure that Anderson Education has up to date knowledge and information.
Nikki Harlow
Nikki Harlow
Education Consultant
Nikki Harlow is an Education Consultant, who joined the Anderson Education team in 2015, she has a wide range of experience in education with extensive knowledge of working with children with Special Educational Needs. Nikki’s career has included working in schools and also as an events and exhibition manager. She has lived in the USA and the Middle East and her son attended a UK boarding school.
On the afternoon, Sara and Nikki will be helping you:
- Understand admissions timelines and entrance requirements for international students
- Talk through guardianship and what it involves for international families
- Think through what actually matters for your child: academics, sport, pastoral care, size, location
- Discuss the schools that could be the best fit for your child
- Help you plan your child's future
What families have to say
"Finding a boarding school is a daunting task, especially if, like us, you've never had any dealings with such establishments before. Having been pointed in the direction of Anderson Education, the weight of responsibility fell away. Not only did they offer us some very sound advice, but they did so at 9pm on a Friday evening"
Paul & Sue, parents of two boarders
"Anderson Education helped me and my daughter make light work of a minefield of schools on offer. Informative guidance and great support made such a difficult decision much easier. My daughter is now settled and happy at her new school. Thank you."
Christine, mum of a new boarder
Our daughter expressed an interest in boarding after attending a summer singing programme in a UK boarding school. She was drawn to the facilities and quality of education that a traditional well-ranked UK boarding school could offer. Anderson Education were recommended to us and we were over the moon with their speed and efficiency. 2 Weeks and 2 days later we had three offers and accepted a place at the school we wanted!
Father of a new boarder joining Year 9 in September 2026
Frequently asked questions
Is this an exhibition, like the Dubai and Al Khobar events?
No – this is a dedicated information day. No schools exhibit; instead, you'll spend the afternoon with Anderson Education's own consultants, Sara and Nikki.
Is the event free to attend?
Yes, entry is free.
Do I need to register in advance?
Registering ahead of time isn't required, but it helps us plan the afternoon and make sure you get enough time with Sara and Nikki.e.
Does my child need to come with me?
That's entirely up to you. Many parents prefer to do this first conversation alone, then bring their child to a shortlisted school visit later – but you're welcome to bring them if you'd like.
What is a UK guardian, and do we need one?
UK boarding schools require every international student to have a UK-based guardian – someone who can act in loco parentis during term time for things like exeat weekends, medical appointments, and school communication. Sara and Nikki can talk you through how it works and how to arrange it.
What happens after the information day?
There's no obligation to do anything on the day. If you'd like ongoing support, Sara and Nikki can continue to help you narrow down schools, understand timelines, and prepare applications after the event.
I can't attend on 11 November – can you still help?
Yes. Anderson Education's advice isn't limited to the information day — get in touch and Sara or Nikki can help you from wherever you are.
Where to find us
The Fairmont, Riyadh
Area, Business Gate, Qurtubah, Riyadh 11552, Saudi Arabia
The information day takes place at The Fairmont in Riyadh. Come any time between 16:00 and 20:00 – no appointment needed.
Wednesday 11th November 2026
16:00 – 20:00
Free entry
16:00 – 20:00
Free entry
