Bournemouth Collegiate School

The school operates under the ethos 'Together we Achieve the Extraordinary', emphasizing creativity, commitment, curiosity, and community. It promotes a growth mindset, particularly in the Prep School through the 'GRIT' approach (Growth mindset, Ready to learn, Independent, Team Players) and the 'Curiosity Approach' in Early Years. The school aims to foster confidence and independence in a culturally diverse, child-centred environment.

The school offers a continuous educational pathway from Kindergarten through to Sixth Form. The Prep curriculum focuses on progression and assessment, utilizing tools like the 'Chilli Challenge' to differentiate learning. The Senior and Sixth Form curricula include a broad range of subjects such as English, Mathematics, Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), Humanities (History, Geography, Religious Studies), Modern Foreign Languages (French, Spanish, Russian, Chinese), and creative subjects like Art, Textiles, Photography, and Music Technology. Sixth Form students have access to the EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) and dedicated higher education and careers guidance.

Pupils achieve success in both academic and extracurricular pursuits, with recent results highlighting GCSE and A Level achievements. The school's swimming programme is particularly notable, with pupils frequently competing at county and regional levels, achieving numerous personal bests and championship medals. Graduates move on to various higher education destinations, supported by the school's careers and UCAS guidance team.

The school employs a dedicated Learning Plus team and SENCOs at both Prep and Senior levels to provide targeted academic support. Pastoral care is integrated into the school structure, with dedicated heads of year, form tutors, and school nurses available to support pupil wellbeing. International students receive additional support through EAL (English as an Additional Language) teaching staff.

The school manages admissions for Prep, Senior, and Sixth Form levels, as well as international students. The process includes a registration fee (£120 for domestic, £600 for international) and a refundable deposit upon final payment. Prospective families are encouraged to attend open days, and the school offers scholarships for high-achieving pupils and bursaries based on individual review.

The academic year is divided into three terms: Autumn (September to December), Spring (January to March), and Summer (April to July). Each term includes a half-term break, and the calendar features designated INSET days for staff training. Boarding facilities typically open and close at specific times surrounding these term dates and holidays.

The school operates across two main sites: the Prep School in Lower Parkstone, Poole, and the Senior School in Southbourne, Bournemouth. Prep facilities include a library, an ICT suite with touch-screen computers, a science lab, an art studio, a DT workshop, and a music room. Sports amenities at the Prep site feature a large sports field, sports hall, tennis courts, netball pitches, and a 20-metre indoor swimming pool. The campus also provides woodland areas and outdoor learning environments for younger pupils.

Pupils participate in a wide range of activities beyond the classroom, including music, drama, and sports. The school hosts performance opportunities, such as 'Songs from the Shows', and offers specialized clubs like the Duke of Edinburgh's Award. The school also maintains a 'Blue Society' for alumni to stay connected.