Appleford School
Secular
Updated July 2026
Curriculum
National Curriculum (England)Accreditations
British Schools OverseasAppleford School is a leading independent, co-educational specialist school for pupils aged 7 to 18 with dyslexia and associated learning difficulties. It provides day, weekly, and full boarding options within an 8-acre parkland setting in Wiltshire.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
Appleford is committed to an ethos of developing confidence, celebrating success, and providing continuous support for children with specific learning difficulties. The school prioritizes teaching the individual child over a rigid curriculum, utilizing a multi-sensory approach to learning. It maintains traditional values while fostering a nurturing environment where pupils can flourish.
Programmes
The school provides a Prep School programme for Years 4 to 8, which utilizes a 'Creative Curriculum' and multi-sensory teaching strategies. In the Senior School, pupils follow a curriculum focused on GCSE and BTEC qualifications, with subject specialists teaching core areas such as literacy, numeracy, and science. The academic programme is designed to build independence and prepare students for future examinations and life beyond school.
Outcomes
The school offers a curriculum leading to GCSE and BTEC qualifications, with courses beginning in Year 9 to provide a three-year progression pathway. Pupils are supported in their transition to university, further education, or employment. The school has been consistently awarded the highest possible grades by the Independent Schools Inspectorate.
Student support
Learning support
The school employs a professional Learning Support team, including HCPC-registered Speech and Language Therapists and Occupational Therapists. Every class is limited to ten pupils and is supported by a Learning Support Assistant. The school provides specialist, multi-sensory teaching tailored to individual needs, with additional support available for literacy and numeracy.
Frequently asked questions(6)
- What curriculum does Appleford School offer?
- Appleford School offers National Curriculum (England).
- How much is tuition at Appleford School?
- Annual tuition at Appleford School is £23.3K–£45.5K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- Is Appleford School a day or boarding school?
- Appleford School is a day and boarding school.
- What accreditations does Appleford School hold?
- Appleford School holds accreditations including British Schools Overseas.
- Is Appleford School co-educational?
- Appleford School is a co-ed school.
- Where is Appleford School located?
- Appleford School is an international school in Salisbury, United Kingdom.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2025-2026| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Day (year 5 to year 8) | 9–13 | £23.3K |
| Day (year 9+) | 13–18 | £28.1K |
| Weekly Boarding (year 5 to year 8) | 9–13 | £35.7K |
| Weekly Boarding (year 9+) | 13–18 | £40.5K |
| Full Boarding (including International pupils) (year 5 to year 8) | 9–13 | £40.6K |
| Full Boarding (including International pupils) (year 9+) | 13–18 | £45.5K |
Other fees(7)
| Placement test· Speech and Language or Occupational Therapy Assessment | £745 |
|---|---|
| Bus / transport· Price on Application | — |
| Insuranceterm· Personal Effects Insurance (opt in if required) | £10 |
| Insurance· Pupils’ Absence Insurance Scheme (opt in if required): 1.5% of School Fees per term | — |
| Insurance· Personal Accident Scheme – the cost is covered within the school fees | — |
| Boardingnight· Occasional Boarding (dinner, bed and breakfast) or Weekly boarders returning on Saturday night | £75 |
| Boarding· Flexi-Boarding: 1 night per week (£805 per term), 2 nights per week (£1,610 per term), 3 nights per week (£2,477 per term) | — |
Discounts
- Sibling discount: 5% - 15%
Admissions
The school welcomes pupils aged 7 to 18 with specific learning difficulties, including dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dyspraxia. The admissions process involves an initial enquiry, a review of educational reports by the therapy team, a personal visit with the Headmaster, and a five-day taster visit. While the school accepts privately funded pupils, it also works with local authorities to support pupils with Education Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
Calendar
The school operates on a three-term academic year (Spring, Summer, and Autumn). Each term includes scheduled exeat weekends and half-term breaks, with specific dates provided for boarders' returns and the commencement of terms. The academic year typically concludes in July with Speech Day.
Facilities
About the campus
Set in 8 acres of parkland, the campus features specialized boarding houses, including Elm House, Willows House, The Beeches, and Maddington House. Academic facilities include well-equipped classrooms with high ICT provision, science labs, and a food technology room. The school also provides dedicated spaces for sports and outdoor pursuits.
Co-curriculars
Appleford offers an extensive range of co-curricular clubs and activities designed to support personal and social development. These include sporting fixtures, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, and various adventure opportunities such as expeditions and foreign travel. The school also maintains a Forest School, a vegetable garden, and a polytunnel to facilitate outdoor learning and activities.
Dr Peter GardnerFounder and ProprietorDr Gardner is the founder of Appleford School and a Chartered Educational, Forensic, and Counselling Psychologist. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Directors and a Member of the Chartered Institute of Management, and he plays an active role in all aspects of school life, including SMT meetings.
- Mr David KingHeadmaster
Mr King serves as the Headmaster of Appleford School.
- James LanganDeputy Head, Director of Studies
- Iona GrayHead of Pastoral and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead
- Dudley ManningHead of Boarding and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead
- Kate NokeSENCO