Canford School Review: Fees, Rankings And More
Set against the serene backdrop of Dorset’s landscape, Canford School emerges not just as an educational institution, but as a hub of learning and personal growth. This co-educational boarding school, steeped in a rich tapestry of history since the 19th century, redefines the essence of modern independent education. It’s a place where academic pursuits and character building walk hand in hand, crafting a unique journey for each student. The school’s commitment to providing top-tier facilities and embracing contemporary educational techniques positions it as a forward-thinking choice for discerning families.
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Summary Of School
- Type of school: Co-educational
- Age range: 13-18
- Pupils: 660
- Fees: Full boarding – £15,173 per term / £45,519 per annum, Day – £11,497 per term/£34,491 per annum
- 2023 A-Level Results: 65% A*-A
- 2023 GCSE Results: 78% 9/7
Table of Contents
Canford School Overview
Canford School, established in 1923, is housed in a historic estate with origins predating the Norman Conquest. The school occupies Canford Manor, with parts dating back to around 1400, and underwent significant renovations under Sir Charles Barry in 1846. The school values its rich history, including the discovery and sale of a genuine Assyrian bas-relief for £7.7 million in 1994, funds from which were used to enhance the school’s facilities and scholarship programs. Canford’s commitment to tradition and heritage is a core aspect of its educational ethos.
Canford takes pride in its extensive library and resources, offering students a rich collection of literature and research materials. This commitment to academic excellence is reflected in the school’s impressive record of alumni achievements. Among its notable alumni are esteemed figures in various fields, such as journalists, authors, business leaders, and sports personalities, who have made significant contributions to society.
A high percentage of Canford graduates proceed to their first-choice university, with a notable number gaining admission to prestigious institutions such as Oxford and Cambridge. In recent years, an increasing number of Canfordians have also pursued higher education at top universities abroad, including Ivy League schools in the United States and leading universities in Europe and Asia.
Canford’s alumni network boasts a diverse range of successful individuals, including acclaimed authors, distinguished journalists, innovative entrepreneurs, and athletes who have excelled on the world stage. This illustrious list underlines the school’s commitment to nurturing talents across various domains, preparing students not just for academic success but for meaningful and impactful careers.
Canford Courses / Programs
Pupils come from all over the world and can join Canford School as early as Year 9. Canford School offers a broad curriculum with GCSEs and A-Levels, and has a consistent track record of students performing well in the examinations.
Canford School Application Deadline
The application process can start as early as three years preceding the regular open days. Interested applicants will take a pre-assessment in Year 7 and academic testing in Year 8. Application dates vary so it is recommended to contact us for the latest information.
Canford School Rankings And Results
In 2023, 65% of students in the cohort scored A*-A for their A Levels examination, whereas 78% scored grades 9-7 for their GCSEs, a testament to the quality of education and teaching standards offered at Canford School.
Canford school ranked 37 in our A Levels League Table and 105 in our GCSE League Table based on the latest results obtained in summer 2023.
Canford School Fees
Here are the fees for 2023/2024 entry:
- Boarders: £15,173 per term/£45,519 per annum
- Day: £11,497 per term/£34,491 per annum
Fees are payable in advance by the first day of term. A monthly payment scheme, starting in July each year, is also available.
Registration Fee: £250
Payable when pupil is registered at the start of the Admissions process (non-refundable).
Confirmation Fee / Deposit: £1,500
Payable in advance of entry; refundable on final bill but forfeit if the confirmed place is not taken up.
No interest is paid on deposits.
For non-UK resident parents, a full term’s fees is required as a deposit, in addition to the first term’s fees due.
Canford School Entry Requirements
Canford School has specific entry requirements for different ages. For Year 9 entry, candidates usually sit for the Common Entrance Examinations which assess students in English, Mathematics, and Verbal Reasoning. While it is not academically selective, it does look for a minimum of 55% average at the Common Entrance exam.
For Sixth Form entry (Year 12), the selection is based on GCSE predictions, a school report, an interview, and an entrance examination. The school looks for strong academic potential and personal qualities that align with its ethos. The entry process is designed to ensure students are well-suited to benefit from the opportunities at Canford.
Canford School Reviews
“The Canford school suited us perfectly in all respects: strong teachers in mathematics, good living conditions, and many useful extra-curricular opportunities. For example, the British are simply obsessed with sports, so it’s simply impossible to not engage in physical education here – we believe that this is a plus, adolescents and children should develop harmoniously, both boys and girls.”
“Enthusiasm, high teaching standards, whole person development, staff of high quality gifting, well used for the good of the pupils. There is a caring atmosphere, for emotional needs. The energy within the school is apparent and infectious. Extra school activities are exceptional in choice, and number.“
“My greatest dream for Canford is to be able to visit it again after 45 yrs, and be able to give them a huge donation for specific purpose or purposes as a thank you for giving me an education and a life. We’ll see how that works out in as year or two. Namaste.”
Canford School Accommodation And Living
Canford School provides on-campus living with seven dormitory residences, each accommodating about 60 to 65 students. The rooms are designed for 2 to 4 students, offering comfort and convenience. These residences feature common areas, laundry facilities, sports infrastructure, mini-kitchens with coffee-making equipment, and comfortable furniture. Dining at the school adheres to a boarding system, with a diverse menu of European and British cuisine, including options for dietary and vegetarian meals.
Canford School Student Services and Extracurricular Activities
Sports: Canford School offers a dynamic sports program including traditional games like rugby, hockey, cricket, and netball, alongside unique offerings like rowing, golf, and Real Tennis. The facilities include squash courts, sports halls, and a swimming pool, supporting over 100 teams in 30 different sports.
The Arts: The arts are a vibrant part of Canford School, with students engaging in Art, Music, and Drama, both as academic subjects and extracurricular activities. The school has excellent facilities for these disciplines, including a theatre, art rooms, and music studios, encouraging participation in various competitions and performances.
Extracurricular Activities: Canford offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities. From sports like diving and clay-pigeon shooting to creative pursuits like beekeeping and bell ringing, the school encourages students to explore new interests. Trips, cultural enrichment programs, and involvement in community service projects further enrich student experiences.
Pastoral Care: Canford School prioritizes pastoral care, ensuring a supportive and inclusive environment. The school emphasises equality, diversity, and inclusion, with a strong system in place for handling sensitive issues. Student well-being is supported through various channels, and there’s an emphasis on respectful and responsible behaviour among students.
Canford School Contact Information
- Official website: https://www.canford.com/
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone call: +44 (0)1202 841254
- Location: Canford School, Wimborne, Dorset BH21 3AD
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