Best State Schools in Dorset County

The Woodroffe School is an outstanding secondary school in Lyme Regis, South West. With an impressive student-teacher ratio of 18:1, the school provides excellent academic support. The school has a strong focus on student safety and resources, although improvement is needed in teacher quality. With an outstanding Ofsted rating and impressive exam results, including 65% achieving Grade 5 or above in English & maths GCSEs, The Woodroffe School is an ideal choice for parents seeking a high-quality education for their children.

Bournemouth School is an outstanding secondary school located in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. With a student-teacher ratio of 17:1 and a focus on academic excellence, the school consistently achieves impressive exam results, with 97% of students achieving grade 5 or above in English and maths GCSEs. The school's sixth form offers a customised programme, allowing students to develop their full potential and gain an edge in the job market. With a nurturing and caring environment, Bournemouth School provides a top-quality education for boys aged 11-18.

Pimperne Church of England VC Primary School is a co-ed primary school located in Pimperne, South West. With a student-teacher ratio of 21:1 and a total student count of 190, the school offers a nurturing environment for children aged 4-11. The school's strong leadership and effective safeguarding ensure a safe and supportive learning environment. Pupils excel in mathematics and make good progress overall. The school's commitment to individual student growth and achievement is reflected in their good Ofsted report. With a focus on quality teaching and positive behaviour, Pimperne Primary School provides a well-rounded education for its students.

The Blandford School is a secondary school located in Blandford Forum, South West. With a student-teacher ratio of 16:1, the school offers a co-ed education for students aged 11-18. The school prioritizes high expectations, supporting student aspirations, and fostering respect between faculty and students. Although the school requires improvement in some areas according to the Ofsted report, it provides a good quality education, including a successful sixth-form provision. The school's recent building initiative has significantly improved facilities, enhancing extracurricular, curricular, and social activities. With a focus on academic achievement, The Blandford School offers support for university applications, with students securing places at prestigious institutions. Exam results demonstrate achievements in English and maths GCSEs, as well as A-level attainment. Overall, The Blandford School strives to provide a safe and enjoyable learning environment, preparing students for successful futures.

The Priory Church of England Primary School is a values-driven school in Christchurch, providing a loving Christian environment for students to thrive. With a student-teacher ratio of 21:1 and a Good Ofsted rating, the school offers a comprehensive and balanced curriculum, resulting in high academic achievements. The school fosters students' intellectual, physical, and spiritual growth, preparing them for future success. With an average score of 104 in maths and 107 in reading, as well as 17% of students achieving at a higher standard in reading, writing, and maths, The Priory School ensures a quality education for all students.

Beaminster St Mary's Academy is a Church of England primary school located in Beaminster, South West. With a student-to-teacher ratio of 18:1, our dedicated staff ensures personalized attention for every child. We prioritize academic achievement while instilling Christian values and fostering positive attitudes to learning. Our strong community connections and collaboration with other schools provide a well-rounded education. Although currently requiring improvement in some areas, our focused efforts in reading and mathematics have shown improvement. We aim to nurture each student's full potential in a safe and supportive environment.

Maiden Newton, Greenford Church of England Primary School is a co-ed primary school located in Maiden Newton, South West. With a student-teacher ratio of 18:1 and a focus on providing a top-notch education within the framework of Christian principles, the school maintains a good overall grade, as well as achieving good results in academics, teaching, behavior and safety. The school offers effective support for social, emotional and mental health needs and has improved phonics teaching. While there is a need for increased pupil progress, the school's mission of growing together and preparing students for life ensures a solid academic foundation for each individual student.

Kinson Academy is a co-ed primary school located in Kinson, Bournemouth. Founded in 2019, we provide a nurturing and inclusive environment for children aged 4-11. With a student-teacher ratio of 18:1, we prioritize individualized attention for each child. Our dedicated staff, excellent resources, and commitment to diversity ensure a well-rounded education. Our recent exam results showcase our students' achievements in maths and reading. We also offer support for students with special educational needs. Join us and be part of our thriving learning community!

Portesham Church of England Primary School, located in Portesham, South West, is a co-educational school offering education for children aged 2 to 11. With strong Christian values and a nurturing environment, the school provides a high-quality education that supports the needs of each child. The dedicated staff ensures that every child reaches their full potential while fostering a love for learning.

St Mary & St Joseph's Catholic Primary School is a co-ed Roman Catholic school founded in 2014. With a student teacher ratio of 21:1, the school provides a nurturing environment for children aged 4-11. The school's commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its average scores in maths (102) and reading (103). Although the overall effectiveness requires improvement, the school focuses on the personal development and well-being of its students, ensuring a safe and inclusive learning environment.

Hazelbury Bryan Primary School is a good and inclusive school located in Droop, Hazelbury Bryan. With a student-teacher ratio of 18:1, the school provides enriching learning experiences and skilled support for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities. The leadership team is dedicated to maintaining the quality of education and ensuring effective safeguarding. The school aims to improve pupils' writing skills and ensure more students achieve the expected standard in key stage 1. With good overall effectiveness and achievements, Hazelbury Bryan Primary School is a great choice for parents seeking a nurturing and inclusive primary education.

St James' Church of England Primary Academy is a top-notch primary school with a Christian ethos. With a student-teacher ratio of 22:1, the school maintains a high quality of education and uses limited space skillfully for a rich learning environment. The school emphasizes effective safeguarding measures and inclusive practices for students with special educational needs and disabilities. The dedicated staff focuses on improving attendance and supporting disadvantaged pupils. Students benefit from improved teaching and the use of technology, resulting in impressive progress in writing. The school's exam results show above-average scores in maths and reading, with 62% of students achieving GCSE grades 4 or higher.

St Ives Primary & Nursery School is a co-ed primary school located in St. Leonards and St. Ives. With a dedicated headteacher and a student teacher ratio of 28:1, the school focuses on providing quality education and support for students aged 2-11. The school has a strong academic record, with high average scores in math and reading, as well as a high percentage of students achieving GCSE grades of 4 or higher. With a diverse student body and a nurturing environment, St Ives Primary & Nursery School is committed to providing a well-rounded education for every child.

Victoria Education Centre is a co-educational all-through school located in Bournemouth. With a dedicated leadership team, the school provides excellent provision for children with special needs and disabilities, offering a wide range of sporting and cultural activities for diverse experiences. The school has a positive attitude towards learning and effective safeguarding, ensuring the well-being of all students. With good progress seen in early years and post-16 provision, Victoria Education Centre is committed to providing a nurturing and inclusive learning environment for all students.

Pokesdown Community Primary School, located in Bournemouth, offers a warm and pleasant learning environment for children aged 4-11. With a student-teacher ratio of 22:1 and a dedicated team of staff, the school focuses on providing excellent academic support. The school boasts impressive exam results, with an average score of 105 in both maths and reading. Additionally, 16% of pupils achieve a higher standard in reading, writing, and maths. Pokesdown Community Primary School is committed to nurturing the potential of each child and providing a diverse and inclusive educational experience.

St Mark's Church of England Primary School is a co-educational school located in Talbot Village, Bournemouth. With strong leadership and effective partnerships, the school maintains a good quality of education. They prioritize safeguarding and have a strong culture of care. While some pupils may not meet certain expectations, the school focuses on progress in writing. Offering full-time care and various clubs, St Mark's provides a supportive environment for students.

Parrett and Axe Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School is a Good-rated school that offers a well-rounded education, focusing on the overall development and potential of each child. With a low student-teacher ratio, strong academic results, and a nurturing environment, parents can trust that their child will receive an excellent education with many opportunities for success and personal growth.

St Katharine's Church of England Primary School is a caring and well-led school in Southbourne, Bournemouth. With a focus on powerful learning attributes, the school offers an exciting and vibrant curriculum. The dedicated staff ensures that teaching and learning is consistently good or better, while safeguarding measures are effective. The school has a strong vision and ethos, providing a safe and inclusive environment for children to thrive.

Wyke Regis Church of England Junior School is a primary school located in Wyke Regis, Dorset. With an overall grade of Good by Ofsted, the school offers a quality education with a focus on academics, behaviour, and personal development. The school has a low student to teacher ratio of 23:1, ensuring individual attention. With a diverse and inclusive environment, the school provides support for students with special educational needs. The average exam scores in maths and reading are above average, reflecting the school's commitment to academic excellence. The school is led by Headteacher Mrs Wanda Roberts, who ensures effective leadership and management. With a strong emphasis on safety, resources, and a supportive community, Wyke Regis Church of England Junior School provides a nurturing environment for students to thrive.

Hillbourne Primary School is a co-ed primary school located in Bournemouth. With a dedicated headteacher, Mr Richard Claxton, the school provides quality education for children aged 4-11 years. Offering a nurturing and inclusive environment, Hillbourne focuses on the individual needs of each child, ensuring their overall development and success.