Clayesmore School

Founded in 1896, the school is built on the principle of an 'all-round education' that balances traditional academics with a strong foundation of values and attitudes. It emphasizes a warm, kind, and purposeful community where every pupil is known as an individual. The school promotes a 'have a go' spirit, encouraging resilience, independence, and a sense of responsibility for the wider world through service and leadership.

The school offers a continuous educational journey from Nursery (ages 3 months–4) through Prep (ages 4–13), Senior (ages 13–16), and Sixth Form (ages 16–18). The Prep school follows an adapted national curriculum with a core focus on English, maths, and science, transitioning to the Common Entrance syllabus in Years 7 and 8. Specialist teaching is introduced in the middle years, covering subjects such as art, ceramics, design & technology, computing, French, music, and PE. The Senior and Sixth Form programmes provide pathways toward GCSEs and further education, supported by a tutor system that monitors academic progress and personal development.

The school aims for diverse academic outcomes, with graduates moving on to Russell Group universities, including Oxford and Cambridge, as well as vocational pathways and direct employment. The curriculum and careers guidance are designed to prepare pupils for adult life, ensuring they leave with the confidence, character, and skills to thrive beyond the school gates. Many pupils are awarded scholarships in academic, music, art, and design subjects.

Clayesmore is accredited by CReSTeD and provides comprehensive learning support for pupils with specific needs. Specialist teachers offer structured, incremental support, including pre-teaching and reinforcement of topics within the Teaching & Learning Centre. The school supports dual or multiple exceptional children and provides resources for speech and language, social skills, fine and gross motor skills, and assistive technology. Individual profiles are used to develop strengths and support vulnerable areas.

Clayesmore welcomes enquiries for all entry points, including Nursery, Prep, Senior, and Sixth Form. Prospective families are encouraged to book a private visit, which includes a tour of the school, the opportunity to observe teaching classes, and a meeting with the Head. The school also hosts regular open days throughout the year. Admissions enquiries for all stages, including international applicants, are handled by the dedicated Admissions team.

The school operates on a termly basis, with specific term dates available for download on the school website. The academic year is structured to include half-term breaks and exeat weekends.

Located in the Dorset countryside, the campus features dedicated facilities for sports, arts, and sciences. The school includes a sports centre, art and photography studios, and design technology workshops. Boarding life is supported by dedicated boarding houses, and the school maintains its own health centre. The grounds provide access to the surrounding countryside for outdoor pursuits.

The school’s LEX programme is a central feature, offering a five-year curriculum of trips, experiences, and events designed to develop life skills, habits, and confidence. Beyond the classroom, pupils engage in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, country sports, watersports, equestrian activities, climbing, and walking. The school also offers extensive opportunities in music, with two-thirds of pupils learning an instrument, as well as drama, theatre performances, art, ceramics, and design technology. Service and leadership are fostered through the Sixth Form ACE (Action, Community, Environment) programme.