‘If you want co-ed boarding, add it to your must-see list.’ (Tatler)
‘A very special school … results are easily as good as other co-ed schools with illustrious names. With its first-rate teaching, stunning setting and innovative ideas, Canford is definitely at the top of its game.’ (The Good Schools Guide)
‘Among the top 10 most beautiful schools’ (The Daily Telegraph)
Set among 250 acres of landscaped grounds near Wimborne, Dorset, Canford is a top co-educational UK boarding school, a view endorsed nationally as illustrated above. At 650 pupils aged 13-18, the roll is the highest in its history. The school is run as a 24/7 full boarding school, with no weekly or flexi boarding, with options to spend a proportion of Saturday nights at home each year alongside exeats and half terms. On any weekend at least 70% of boarders are in school enjoying a full programme of activities.
Results are consistently excellent: among the top 25 co-ed boarding schools at A*/A A Level (www.best-schools.co.uk) recently. 95%+ leavers move on to university, on average 80%+ to Russell Group/Sunday Times Top 12. Major scholarships to Ivy League and Russell Group, with 104 places at Oxbridge and over 100 to Medical Schools in the past decade.
Canford combines academic achievement with a diverse co-curricular programme embracing intellectual, cultural and performing arts and extensive sporting activities. The environment encourages participation, hard work and a strong sense of community. All pupils are expected to engage with educational and personal development experiences and are supported by a pastoral programme to promote well-being.
Success is evident: GB rowers, England Hockey players, county rugby and hockey champions, ABRSM diploma achievers and selection for the National Youth Orchestra, National Youth Wind Orchestra and National Youth Theatre. Importance is placed on educating pupils to challenge themselves and appreciate the connections across learning in many contexts. Preparation for life beyond includes awareness of options, flexibility, soft skills and the confidence to use them. Founded in 1923, Canford blends tradition with forward-thinking. The Grade 1 listed manor is complemented by modern facilities, sports centre, theatre, Real tennis court and boathouse.
Under two hours from London airports, 1 hour 30 minutes’ drive from M25/M4 junction. Exeat coach service to Richmond/SW1. Pre-assessment from Year 6 – Shells join from over 50 different prep and junior schools. Scholarships 13+ and 16+, means-tested bursaries worth up to 100% of fees.
