Best Secondary Schools in Dorset County

Wyvern Academy is a co-educational all-through school located in Dorset, South West. With a strong leadership team and effective safeguarding measures, the school provides a high quality education. Students consistently make strong progress, and behaviour has significantly improved. Offering nursery classes and a sixth form, the school caters to students aged 2-19 years. With a student teacher ratio of 5:1, individualized attention is given to each student. Although some activities lack structure, overall, Wyvern Academy ensures academic excellence and a safe learning environment.

The Quay School is an outstanding all-through school in Bournemouth, providing high-quality education for students aged 5-16. With a flexible and creative curriculum matched to pupils' goals and interests, the school maintains a strong focus on teaching, learning, and assessment. The staff's dedication and effective safeguarding culture ensure a safe and nurturing environment for every student.

The Stable School is a good, independent, co-ed middle deemed secondary school in Christchurch. With a focus on individuality, the school provides a warm and nurturing environment for students with barriers to learning. The school values innovation, honesty, and strong moral compass, ensuring students acquire the skills and knowledge needed for a happy and successful life.

Sheiling School is an all-through co-educational boarding school located in Ashley, South West. With a history dating back to 1958, the school provides an excellent education for students aged 5 to 19 with severe learning difficulties. The school has been rated 'Good' by Ofsted, demonstrating its commitment to high-quality education and outstanding personal development. With a small student body and dedicated staff, Sheiling School offers a supportive and inclusive environment for every child.

Langside School, located in Parkstone, Bournemouth, is an all-through school providing education for students aged 2-19. With a total of 26 students, the school offers a co-ed learning environment. The school prides itself on its outstanding behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management. It has a good Ofsted rating, with a particular mention of the quality of education and sixth-form provision. With a focus on individual needs, Langside School provides support for students with physical disabilities and various learning difficulties. Overall, Langside School is dedicated to providing a nurturing and inclusive educational experience for all students.

The Beeches School is a co-educational secondary school located in Aurora Boveridge College, Cranborne. With a small and nurturing environment, the school provides a high-quality education for students aged 11 to 16. Led by Mrs Adele Henson, the school has been praised for its good overall effectiveness, excellent behaviour and attitudes, and strong leadership and management. Operating since 2019, The Beeches School offers a personalized learning experience for its 24 students, with a focus on personal development and achieving academic success.

Arbour House School is a co-ed middle deemed secondary school in Weymouth, Dorset. With a small school size of only 60 students, it provides a nurturing and inclusive environment for children aged 6-18 with Autistic Spectrum Disorder. Led by Ms Julie Perks, the school has been rated as 'Good' by Ofsted, showcasing its commitment to delivering a quality education. The school excels in supporting personal development and fostering positive behaviour and attitudes, ensuring a well-rounded education for all students.

The Forum School is a co-ed boarding school located in Shillingstone, South West. Established in 1992, it caters to students aged 7-19 with special educational needs including speech, language and communication difficulties, autism spectrum disorder, moderate learning difficulties, severe learning difficulties, and other disabilities. With a total of 21 students, the school aims to provide a nurturing environment where students can develop good behavior, attitudes, and personal growth. While the school requires improvement in overall effectiveness and education quality, it meets the independent school standards. The sixth-form provision also requires improvement. Parents can expect a supportive and inclusive learning environment at The Forum School.

Harbour Vale School is a small, co-educational all-through school located in Sherborne. With only 12 students, our dedicated staff provide personalized attention and support to ensure each child thrives academically and socially. Led by Mrs Kelly Knight, our inclusive environment fosters a love of learning and encourages independent thinking. With a diverse student body and a low percentage of students eligible for free school meals, Harbour Vale School offers a nurturing and inclusive educational experience.

Sturminster Newton High School is a co-educational secondary school located in Sturminster Newton, South West. With a dedicated and experienced headteacher, Mr Jason Davis, the school offers a comprehensive education for students aged 11-18. The school boasts a large campus and a supportive learning environment, ensuring every student reaches their full potential.