Ballard School
New Milton, Hampshire · BH25 5SU
Ballard School is a coeducational independent day school in New Milton, Hampshire, serving ages 3–18 across Nursery, Pre-Prep, Lower Prep, Upper Prep, and Senior phases. The school emphasises a balanced, holistic approach captured in its strapline 'The Perfect Balance', with particular strengths in STEM, outdoor education (Beach School and Forest School), and pastoral care. As a relatively young independent with no Ofsted inspection yet, it positions itself as a contemporary alternative to traditional prep schools, winning 'Co-educational School of the Year 2024–25'.
- →All-through provision from age 3 to 18 with seamless progression and strong pastoral continuity
- →Distinctive outdoor learning emphasis through Beach School and Forest School immersion
- →Broad co-curricular offer combining STEM excellence, performance arts, and structured adventure (expeditions, DofE)
- →Wraparound care (7:30am–6:00pm) and pragmatic family support in South Coast setting
Who thrives here
Pupils who thrive in a balanced, non-selective environment that values both academic rigour and creative/outdoor exploration. Families seeking all-through education without boarding, with flexible working patterns (wraparound care model).
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
Fernhill Lane
New Milton, Hampshire
BH25 5SU
Nearest stations
Recent investment
Frequently asked questions
What are the fees at Ballard School?
Day fees at Ballard School are approximately £11,265 per year (2024/25).
How do you get into Ballard School?
Ballard School admits pupils at 3+, 4+, 7+, 8+, 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by Interview, Assessment. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
What are Ballard School's exam results?
At Ballard School, 45.2% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is Ballard School a boarding school?
Ballard School is a day school in New Milton and does not offer boarding.
What is Ballard School's latest inspection rating?
ISI rated Ballard School “Excellent” (2017). This grading is no longer issued — both inspectorates have since changed how they report outcomes.
Further reading
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Holistic, balanced approach to development beyond pure academics
✓Innovative outdoor and experiential learning (Beach/Forest School differentiation)
✓Strong pastoral care and pupil wellbeing focus
✓Wraparound care enabling working families
✓Award-winning co-educational community (2024–25 winner)
✓STEM excellence and science engagement
✓All-through model reducing transition disruption
Common concerns
!No Ofsted inspection yet; transparency on academic outcomes, safeguarding, and SEND provision still emerging
!Limited published GCSE/A-Level data available for independent validation of academic claims
!Relatively newer independent school—established track record over time not yet proven