Best Secondary Schools in Dorset

Allenbourn Middle School is a co-educational school located in Wimborne Minster, South West. With a student-teacher ratio of 19:1 and a strong focus on supporting all students, the school provides a nurturing environment for children aged 9-13. The dedicated library and librarian offer a wide range of resources and events to enhance teaching and leisure reading. With impressive exam results, including a 70% achievement of GCSE 4 or higher, Allenbourn Middle School is committed to academic success and providing a well-rounded education for its students.

Lockyer's Middle School is a thriving and inclusive co-ed school in Corfe Mullen, offering a rich and varied curriculum. With a student-teacher ratio of 19:1, we provide individualized support to our students, 13.5% of whom have SEN support. Our students achieve excellent exam results, with 68% achieving gcse 4 or higher. We foster a secure and engaging environment, promoting a love of learning and strong connections with parents and the wider community.

Emmanuel Middle Church of England Middle School, located in Verwood, South West, is a co-ed school with a strong foundation in the values of the Church of England. With a student-teacher ratio of 21:1, our dedicated faculty ensures individual attention and support for each student. Our focus on academic excellence is reflected in our impressive KS2 exam results, with students achieving above-average scores in maths and reading. Additionally, our school provides a supportive environment for students with special educational needs, with 11.7% of our students receiving SEN support. We are proud to offer a diverse and inclusive community, where students from various backgrounds thrive together. With a strong emphasis on character development, we cultivate a nurturing and welcoming atmosphere where every child can reach their full potential.

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.

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.

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.