Clayesmore School
Blandford Forum, Dorset · DT11 8LL
AAB+ A-level
24.2%
9–7 GCSE
31%
Day fees
£32k
Inspection
Not yet inspected
Clayesmore is a coeducational boarding and day school in rural Dorset with a strong emphasis on all-round development beyond academics. The school operates across nursery, prep, senior, and sixth form, attracting families who value a traditional boarding experience combined with outdoor education and creative pursuits. Its rural setting and LEX (outdoor learning) programme distinguish it from more urban competitors, while maintaining academic rigour across all age groups.
- →Strong boarding tradition with genuine all-round pastoral care in a rural Dorset setting
- →Distinctive LEX outdoor learning programme integrated into the curriculum
- →Entry points from age 7 onwards allow flexible admissions and family continuity
- →Accessible fees relative to HMC peers, with transparent bursary support and scholarships
Who thrives here
Clayesmore suits well-rounded, resilient pupils who thrive in a boarding community and enjoy outdoor pursuits and creative activities. It appeals to families seeking a traditional independent education with a rural, nature-focused dimension rather than a purely academic hothouse.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
Iwerne Minster
Blandford Forum, Dorset
DT11 8LL
Nearest stations
Notable alumni
Tobias Menzies
Actor (The Crown, Game of Thrones, Outlander)
Orlando Bloom
Actor (Pirates of the Caribbean, Lord of the Rings)
Recent investment
Frequently asked questions
What are the fees at Clayesmore School?
Day fees at Clayesmore School are approximately £31,500 per year (2024/25). Boarding fees are higher.
How do you get into Clayesmore School?
Clayesmore School admits pupils at 7+, 8+, 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by Interview, Assessment. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
What are Clayesmore School's exam results?
At Clayesmore School, 24.2% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 31% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is Clayesmore School a boarding school?
Clayesmore School offers boarding as well as day places.
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Genuine boarding community with strong pastoral care and house staff accessibility
✓Distinctive LEX outdoor curriculum builds resilience and environmental awareness
✓All-round education ethos; not purely exam-focused
✓Helpful bursary and scholarship schemes; transparent fee structure
✓Creative and sporting opportunities well-resourced
Common concerns
!Rural location and boarding emphasis not suited to all families; limited day-pupil facilities or culture
!Not yet Ofsted inspected (independent school inspection gap may concern some)
!Limited transparency on exam results and university destinations relative to HMC peers
!Smaller peer group and rural setting may feel isolating for some boarders