Best State Primary Schools in Dorset County

Chickerell Primary Academy is a welcoming and nurturing school in South West DT3. With a student-teacher ratio of 22:1, our dedicated staff provides consistent and strong teaching across all phases. We prioritize the safety and well-being of our students, and our strong leadership ensures effective safeguarding arrangements. Our pupils make good progress, and we focus on their personal development and welfare. While attainment in reading and writing may not consistently align with national averages, we strive to inspire independent and resilient young learners who are well-prepared for secondary education.

The Epiphany School is a welcoming and inclusive primary school located in Muscliff, Bournemouth. With a strong focus on Christian principles and community collaboration, we provide a creative curriculum that inspires our students to love learning. Our dedicated staff and effective safeguarding measures ensure a safe and supportive environment for all children, including those with SEN and/or disabilities. While our overall academic performance is good, we are committed to improving key areas such as mathematics and reading skills. We have outstanding facilities and a strong track record of student achievement, with 72% of students achieving GCSE 4 or higher in 2019.

Haymoor Junior School is a primary school located in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. With a student-teacher ratio of 21:1, the school provides a safe and supportive environment for students aged 7-11. The leadership team is dedicated to raising pupils' achievement and ensuring their progress. The school has seen notable improvements in mathematics and writing outcomes. However, there is a focus on further supporting lower-attaining disadvantaged boys in reading. Overall, Haymoor Junior School offers a good quality education and ensures the well-being of its students.

Sherborne Primary School is a co-educational primary school located in Sherborne, South West. With a student-teacher ratio of 20:1, our dedicated staff ensure that each child receives individual attention and support. We prioritize high standards of achievement and behavior, providing a broad and balanced curriculum that promotes respect, tolerance, and care for others. Our exam results demonstrate our commitment to academic excellence, with above-average scores in maths and reading, and a significant percentage of students achieving higher standards. With a focus on inclusivity, we support students with special educational needs, and our diverse community fosters a sense of acceptance and understanding. Join us at Sherborne Primary School for an outstanding education where we work together to learn and respect.

Archbishop Wake Church of England Primary School is a welcoming and supportive school that prioritizes the well-rounded development of its students. With a strong emphasis on academic excellence, the school offers a safe and nurturing learning environment where children can flourish. The dedicated leadership team and highly qualified teachers ensure that every child receives individual attention and support. The school provides plentiful opportunities for independence, teamwork, and personal growth. With effective safeguarding measures, parents can be assured of their child's safety. The school's commitment to improving attendance and progress is evident, although there is a focus on further enhancing writing and science skills. Additionally, efforts are being made to bridge the gap between disadvantaged pupils and others. Archbishop Wake Church of England Primary School values diversity and instills in its students a sense of respect, compassion, and community spirit. With strong exam results, including high achievements in maths and reading, the school equips its students with the necessary skills to succeed in the ever-changing world. Overall, it is a school that nurtures each child's unique abilities and prepares them for a bright future.

Longfleet Church of England Primary School is a quality educational institution that prioritizes academic excellence while fostering spiritual, moral, social, physical, and cultural development. With high standards for student performance and behavior, the school provides a peaceful and happy environment where pupils work well together and attend regularly. The school's leadership team ensures effective safeguarding and supports disadvantaged pupils to make good progress. Although there are some inconsistencies in teaching quality, the overall focus on education and student development makes Longfleet a great choice for parents.

St Andrew's Church of England Primary School is a co-educational school located in Fontmell Magna, South West. With a student-teacher ratio of 16:1, the school provides a nurturing environment for children aged 4-11 years. Founded in 2017, it offers a diverse and inclusive education rooted in the values of the Church of England. The school boasts dedicated teachers and resources, ensuring that every child receives quality education. With a focus on academic excellence, St Andrew's strives to support students with special educational needs, while also offering a strong foundation in core subjects like maths and reading. The school fosters a safe and inclusive atmosphere for children to thrive and reach their full potential.

Burton Church of England Primary School is a joyful and supportive institution with engaged students and a committed staff. Our school fosters a love of lifelong learning, instilling self-awareness in our students to best prepare them for the future. With an overall good rating from Ofsted, quality teaching, and good outcomes for pupils, parents can trust that their children will receive a well-rounded education in a respectful and inclusive environment.

Shillingstone Church of England Primary School is a nurturing and inclusive school located in Shillingstone, South West. With a student-teacher ratio of 18:1, our dedicated staff provide personalized attention to every child. Our curriculum focuses on academic excellence and spiritual development, embracing the values of the Church of England. We offer a co-ed education for children aged 4-11, ensuring a balanced environment for both boys and girls. Our small school size of 105 students fosters a close-knit community where every child is valued. We prioritize individual growth and offer support for students with special educational needs, ensuring an inclusive learning environment. With a commitment to diversity, we celebrate the multicultural backgrounds of our students and offer English language support for non-native speakers. Join us at Shillingstone Church of England Primary School for a holistic educational experience rooted in faith, community, and academic excellence.

Swanage St Mark's Church of England Primary School is a co-ed school located in Swanage, South West. With a student-teacher ratio of 23:1 and a strong focus on academics, the school provides high-quality education for children aged 4-11. The school has shown rapid improvement under effective leadership, with consistently good teaching and high-quality student work. Pupils make good progress in all year groups, and behaviour is well managed. The school successfully supports pupils with different needs and has a low incidence of bullying. With a good overall grade from Ofsted and impressive exam results, Swanage St Mark's is a great choice for parents seeking an excellent primary education for their children.

Stourfield Junior School is a nurturing and inclusive primary school located in Bournemouth. With a focus on developing confident and lifelong learners, our dedicated team of teachers provide a supportive environment for students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. With a student-to-teacher ratio of 21:1 and impressive exam results, we ensure every child reaches their full potential. Come and visit us to see the exceptional work we do!

Dunbury Church of England Academy is a small and caring primary school located in the beautiful Winterborne Valley in Dorset. With a student-teacher ratio of 20:1, our dedicated staff ensure that every child receives the best education possible. Our recent Ofsted report rated us as 'Good' in all categories, and our exam results show high achievement in maths and reading. We prioritize the personal development, behavior, and welfare of our students, creating a nurturing environment where they can thrive.

Shaftesbury Church of England Primary School is a vibrant and inclusive school located in Shaftesbury, South West. With a student-teacher ratio of 18:1, our dedicated staff provide a high quality education for children aged 4-11. We have a Good Ofsted rating, offering excellent academic standards and a strong focus on personal development. Our Christian ethos and growth mindset philosophy ensure that every child is supported to reach their full potential.

Trent Young's CofE Primary School is a Church of England primary school located in Trent, South West. With a student teacher ratio of 20:1, our dedicated staff ensure that every child receives the attention and support they need. Our aim is to equip children with the skills to succeed in the 21st century through inspiring and motivating learning experiences. With a focus on academic excellence, our KS2 exam results show high achievement in maths and reading, with 75% of students achieving GCSE 4 or higher. We also foster a safe and inclusive environment, supporting students with SEN and offering a diverse range of activities. Join us in letting your child's light shine!

Thornford CofE Primary School is a nurturing and safe Church of England school in the beautiful village of Thornford. With a student-teacher ratio of 16:1, our dedicated staff ensures individual attention. Our outstanding exam results, including high scores in maths and reading, demonstrate our commitment to academic excellence. We also prioritize character development and instill qualities of responsibility, compassion, and respect in our students.

Loders CofE Primary Academy is a Church of England school located in Loders, South West. With a student teacher ratio of 13:1, our school provides a supportive and nurturing environment for students aged 2-11 years. Our dedicated teachers and strong leadership ensure good academic progress and personal development. We prioritize inclusivity and diversity, promoting tolerance and understanding. Our focus on British values and comprehensive education prepares students for the future. With good exam results and a commitment to continuous improvement, Loders CofE Primary Academy is an excellent choice for your child's education.

Sandford St Martin's Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School is a well-rounded primary school located in Sandford, Wareham St. Martin. With a student-teacher ratio of 22:1 and a dedicated team of teachers, the school offers a nurturing environment for children aged 4-11 years. The school prides itself on its outstanding behavior and attitudes, as well as the personal development of its students. With a Good rating from Ofsted and impressive exam results, including an average score of 103 in maths and 104 in reading, Sandford St Martin's provides a quality education for every child.

Muscliff Primary School is a well-established school in Bournemouth, known for its commitment to providing a high-quality education. With dedicated teachers and a supportive leadership team, the school ensures that every child's individual needs are met. The school has shown significant improvements in recent years and maintains a good standard of education. With a focus on safeguarding and support for special needs students, Muscliff Primary School prioritizes the well-being and academic success of its students.

Christchurch Junior School is a thriving primary school located in Christchurch, South West. With a student-teacher ratio of 25:1 and a strong focus on developing motivated young learners, the school aims to provide students with the confidence, skills, attitudes, and qualities to realize their full potential. With an average score of 106 in both maths and reading, as well as 69% of students achieving GCSE 4 or higher, Christchurch Junior School offers a high-quality education that prepares students for academic success. Additionally, the school values the close connection between family and school, providing a supportive and inclusive community for all students.

Hill View Primary School is a co-ed school located in Ensbury Park, Bournemouth. With a student-teacher ratio of 23:1 and a dedicated leadership team, the school focuses on providing a quality education. Their engaging curriculum and effective safeguarding measures ensure the well-being of students. The school also has a detailed understanding of pupils' needs, implementing strategies such as a new reading program that is having a positive impact. However, there is room for improvement in teaching mathematical concepts and parental communication regarding children's progress. Overall, Hill View Primary School strives to create a supportive learning environment for students aged 4-11.