Canford

Canford School

Canford School

Canford, England

Canford School is without doubt one of the most beautiful boarding schools in the United Kingdom. Set in the gentle Dorset countryside, the spacious campus is centred around a nineteenth century main building that feels straight out of the world of Harry Potter. The blend of old and modern architecture is striking, and the historic walls not only reflect the past but also create an inspiring learning environment. Academically, Canford School is extremely well positioned – thanks in large part to its dedicated teaching staff. Beyond the classroom, the school offers a wide range of opportunities. Sport and the arts are a firmly rooted part of daily life and are supported with great passion.

Number of students
640
Number of boarders
440
Percentage of international boarders
15%
Average class size
14
Diploma offered
A-Level
Closest International Airport
2 hrs
London Heathrow - by car
Two girls from the Canford School Hockey team hugging by the pitchGirls Football

The Details

The Academics

Canford School offers GCSEs and A Levels – with impressive results, especially considering the relatively low entry requirements. In 2024, 73 percent of pupils achieved grades between 9 and 7 in their GCSEs, and 54 percent were awarded an A in their A Levels. The sciences and computer science are particularly popular.

 

Languages Taught

English as a Foreign Language, French, Latin and Spanish.

The Boarding

A large number of pupils live in boarding. The seven boarding houses – four for boys and three for girls – are modern, welcoming and just a short walk from the classrooms. This closeness fosters a strong sense of community while still allowing space for privacy.

communal space at a boarding house at Canford SchoolThe Boarding

Strengths & Weaknesses

Strengths

Canford School offers a fantastic range of opportunities to make school life exciting both in and beyond the classroom. Highlights include the school’s own radio station, a subject called “Connections” designed to broaden general knowledge, and the “Yellow Hour,” where pupils and teachers present their own compositions, artworks and poems. We love this!

The sports programme is, of course, also excellent. Hockey, rugby, tennis, rowing and athletics are particular strengths. Other popular sports include swimming, basketball, golf, sailing, dance, badminton and canoeing.

Weaknesses

During the compulsory exeat weekends, pupils must leave the boarding house for a short time, which can lead to some annoying logistical challenges.

Location

Canford School is idyllically located in the village of Canford Magna near Wimborne, Dorset, set within around 250 acres of landscaped parkland – and just about 20 minutes from the coastal town of Bournemouth.

Closest International Airport
London Heathrow - 2 hrs by car
London Gatwick - 2hr 20mins by car
Closest Train Station
Bournemouth Train Station - 20 mins by car
Nearest Cities
Bournemouth - 20 mins by car
Wimborne - 5 mins by car
Our Opinion

One of the top names among British boarding schools.

Our Insider Tip

Canford's pupil-run radio station is amazing. Future media folks will love this. 

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