All-ThroughCo-educationalBoardingISI · Excellent
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Leweston School

Sherborne, Dorset · DT9 6EN

AAB+ A-level

23.8%

9–7 GCSE

25.4%

Day fees

£26k

Inspection

Excellent

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School website

Leweston is a coeducational independent all-through school in Sherborne, Dorset, combining day and flexible boarding options across nursery through sixth form. The school emphasises personalised learning through its 'Individualised Learning' and 'Talent Pathways' frameworks, positioning itself as developing rounded individuals rather than exam machines. With a notable equestrian programme and strong focus on enrichment activities, Leweston attracts families seeking a balanced, progressive independent education in a rural Dorset setting.

  • Flexible boarding model allowing families to choose full, weekly, or occasional boarding
  • Specialist equestrian academy integrated into the curriculum with livery facilities
  • Individualised learning pathways allowing pupils to progress at their own pace rather than strict year cohorts
  • All-through provision from nursery to sixth form in a single campus community

Who thrives here

Pupils who thrive in a personalised, less pressurised academic environment; families valuing equestrian excellence; boarders seeking flexible rather than full-time arrangements; creative and active learners who benefit from enrichment-heavy curricula.

Strengths at a glance

Exam results50th pctSports30th pctCo-curricular50th pctValue vs peers50th pctPastoral & wellbeingno data

Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.

At a glance

School typeAll-Through · Boarding
Founded1891
Number of pupils610
Day pupils517
Boarders84
Sixth form67
Pupils with SEND115
Age range3–18
GenderCo-educational
Day fees£25.5k/yr
Boarding fees£37.5k/yr
AssociationsISC
Settingrural
LocationRural Dorset location; Sherborne rail station nearby with services to London Waterloo; school likely provides coach transfers for boarding pupils.
EthosCatholic

Contact & visit

Leweston School

Sherborne, Dorset

DT9 6EN

www.leweston.co.uk
01963210691
Mr John Paget-Tomlinson, Head

Nearest stations

Sherborne5 min
Dorchester South20 min

Frequently asked questions

What are the fees at Leweston School?

Day fees at Leweston School are approximately £25,500 per year (2024/25). Boarding fees are higher.

How do you get into Leweston School?

Leweston 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 Leweston School's exam results?

At Leweston School, 23.8% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 25.4% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.

Is Leweston School a boarding school?

Leweston School offers boarding as well as day places.

What is Leweston School's latest inspection rating?

ISI rated Leweston School “Excellent” (2022).

What parents say

Frequently praised

Personalised, individualised approach suits pupils who don't fit traditional rigid curricula

Strong equestrian programme and facilities attract riding-focused families

Flexible boarding model (full, weekly, occasional) appeals to families with varied needs

All-through provision creates strong community and continuity

Emphasis on wellbeing and pastoral care in a less pressurised environment

Arts, music, and creative subjects well-supported alongside academics

Common concerns

!Not yet inspected by Ofsted; limited external validation of academic outcomes

!Rural location may limit accessibility for some families; transport dependencies for day pupils

!Smaller/niche reputation compared to major regional independents; less recognisable to universities

!Flexible boarding model may not suit families needing consistency of full boarding structure