My boyfriend is English and he went to what Americans would call "private school". Though, the confusion is that those schools are called "public" in the UK. Anyway, he grew up in Bristol, England and went to Bristol Grammar School.
My University is literally next door to the school and I saw the kids all the time. They do indeed have to wear uniforms. Though, I don't think they're divided up into "houses". They have a lower school (primary grades), an upper school (middle and lower-high school) and sixth form (upper-high school). I'd have to ask Neil if he specifically had a "house" within BGS. Neil didn't actually live there - I don't think BGS has a boarding option.
Check out their website!
http://www.bristolgrammarschool.co.uk/
I *love* the opening paragraph!!
"Inspirational teaching by high-calibre staff, a principle on which BGS was founded in 1532, remains at the heart of our success today and affirms our reputation as one of the UK's great city schools. Providing for children of above-average ability, we combine the best of our heritage with modern teaching, excellent facilities and far-ranging opportunities. Let some senior teachers introduce you to the main areas of our remarkable School."
I actually lived a few blocks away from the very, very prestigious Clifton College. (The word college does not mean "university" in England). I remember I went for a walk one day to take a tour of my new neighbourhood. I turned the corner and saw this:
http://www.cliftoncollegeuk.com/
It's soooo impressive! It looks like something out of Harry Potter! Neil and I took a walk around one afternoon during a holiday week and we invited ourselves inside their chapel - beautiful!
Also, click on "Virtual Tour" and then on "Upper School" - check out that courtyard! How would you like to go to high school there?? Clifton College does have boarding houses and day houses.
Oh yes, one last thing, it's silly I know, but I thought it was really cool that my university (University of Bristol) has a traditional crest/shield.
Also cool is that Bristol was the first university in England to admit women on equal footing with men.
If ever a sorority wanted to found in the UK, I recommend this one.
Sorry, I guess that, as an American, I find these things novel and fascinating.
.....Kelly