Mr B A M Vessey
Set in 250 acres of landscaped parkland on the outskirts of Wimborne in Dorset, Canford is an inspirational place to live and study. It was awarded 'Boarding School of the Year' in 2018/19 by leading industry publication Independent School Parent and has established a commanding reputation built on its excellent academic record and fresh lively approach.
The school has celebrated consecutive years of high academic achievement with over 20% of all grades A*, around 50% at A*/A at A level and half of all candidates gaining an average of straight As or better, compared with the picture nationally, where the trend has been downwards in percentage top grades. Outcomes are impressive, with over 95% of Canfordians moving on to University each year with 96 Oxbridge offers in the past decade, and over 100 places for highly competitive Medical Schools and for Veterinary Science. 86% of all offers were to institutions in the Russell Group/Sunday Times Top 12 in 2019.
Alongside the overall high quality educational offering, emphasis is placed on individual development; Canford is ambitious for its pupils in all aspects and provides all the academic, emotional and spiritual support pupils need to reach their potential across their school lives. The recent Independent Schools Inspectorate report said that "pupils' learning and achievements in their academic courses and in games and co-curricular activities are outstanding". With a culture which encourages participation and hard work, breadth and excellence jostle to good effect. Many clubs and societies, educational trips and facilities give pupils the opportunity to develop strong personal qualities as well as lifelong skills and enthusiasms. Leadership within the school is seen in terms of service. Canford regards service as a natural dimension of learning. The pleasure and enthusiasm with which Canfordians embrace community service, as well as care for each other, is one of its proudest achievements.
Pastoral care is based on the house system, which provides the continuity and security in a pupil's life within which personal development can take place. The houses consist of 60 or so pupils, large enough to create a varied and challenging community, small enough to promote a sense of belonging. Above all else, the house is home.
Around 40 scholarships each year for academic excellence or talent in Art, Design Technology, Drama, Music or Sport. Means tested bursaries worth up to 100% of fees.
