Canford School
One of the UK’s top co-educational boarding and day schools with outstanding pupil outcomes, ranked No.1 in the region for A* at A Level.
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Our take
Independent co-ed senior school in Dorset for ages 13–18, day or boarding. Selective entry, top-tier London fees.
- Families seeking a senior school for ages 13–18, with thinking already on 11+ or 13+ entry.
- Families who prefer a co-educational setting over single-sex.
- Families weighing day vs boarding — both are offered.
- Children who can demonstrate strong academics at entry assessment — this is a selective school.
- Families comfortable with top-tier London independent fees in exchange for the level of provision.
- Fees sit at the top of the London market. Factor in extras (uniform, trips, lunches, music tuition) before committing.
- Selective entry — assume some form of assessment at the relevant entry point. Plan tutoring or familiarisation early if needed.
- SEND provision isn't documented in our profile. If your child has an EHCP or specific learning needs, ask admissions about case-by-case capacity before applying.
About the head
Every individual pupil is nurtured by both staff and peers to successfully explore, express and excel in all elements of their education within a supportive school community.
Distinctive features
full boarding experience
personal guided tours with pupils
strong academic and co-curricular departments
Activities & co-curricular
sport
music
drama
academic club
service
other
Facilities
sports
boarding
academic
Latest exam results
In 2025, 57.6% of A Level grades were A*/A and nearly , with over 80% of Upper Sixth leavers progressing to Russell Group/Sunday Times Top 12 universities annually and 39 Oxbridge offers in the past 5 years
Where leavers go
| 2025 | 2023 | |
|---|---|---|
| Cohort | 131 | 148 |
| Oxbridge | 39 | 44 |
| Russell Group | 107 | 118 |
| US Ivy | 10 | 10 |
| Medicine | 38 | — |
Recent coverage
In 2025, Canford School achieved an A Level A*/A grade percentage of 57.6%, surpassing the national average of 28.2%. The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) recognized the school for its exceptional pupil leadership, awarding it a "significant strength" in this area. In January 2026, the school celebrated a "topping-out" ceremony, marking a major milestone in the development of its Sixth Form facilities.
Notable alumni
Open day available
Canford School has confirmed events. Book a visit, then save the school so you don't miss the registration window.
How well does Canford School match?
Tell us your child's age, location, needs and entry point. We'll score commute, academics, support, budget and culture against schools in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.
Check fit for my childApplication timeline
3 of 8 admissions stages have confirmed dates. Save this school to be notified when dates are published.
| Year | Opens | Closes | Reply by | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026-27 | TBC | 31 Jul 2026 | 1 May 2027 | Open |
Open events
Private tours and additional visits available by arrangement — contact admissions to arrange.
Talks & tasters
| Sat, 3 Oct 2026 | Canford Open Morning | Open Morning |
Fees
Bursaries & Scholarships
House system
Wellbeing
Canford prioritises pupil safeguarding and wellbeing through a supportive community, onsite medical and counselling services, caring house and tutoring systems, mentoring, sleep programmes, nutritious food, and pupil-led equity, diversity and inclusion committees.
Inspection
Isi — 11 Nov 2025
One inspection report on file. Worth reading before booking a visit — covers safeguarding, leadership and overall standard.
Term dates 2025-26
Schools like Canford School
Ranked by semantic similarity across curriculum, ethos, intake and admissions style. Most parents shortlist 4–6 schools before applying.
Questions parents ask
Common questions about Canford School, answered from this school’s structured profile data. Always confirm specifics with admissions before applying.
What kind of child is Canford School best for?+
Independent co-ed senior school in Dorset for ages 13–18, day or boarding. Selective entry, top-tier London fees.
How does admissions work?+
Admissions are selective — expect an entrance assessment at the relevant entry point. Plan tutoring or familiarisation early. See the admissions timeline above for confirmed dates.
Are fees published?+
Yes — see the Fees table further down the page. Add extras (uniform, trips, lunches, music tuition, registration fees) on top of the base figure before budgeting.
Does the school support SEND?+
SEND provision isn't documented in our profile. If your child has identified needs, contact admissions early to discuss capacity.
Are there open days?+
2 upcoming open days or tours — see the admissions timeline. Booking is usually required.
How do I contact admissions?+
email at admissions@canford.com or phone on 01202 847207. Reference your child's age and intended entry year in the first message.
What similar schools should I compare?+
We've ranked 6 schools by semantic similarity to Canford School — see the "Schools like Canford School" grid below. Most parents shortlist 4–6 schools before applying.
Reviews
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