The Acorn School
Stroud, Gloucestershire · GL6 0BP
The Acorn School is a small, intimate independent day school in rural Gloucestershire serving pupils from age 7 through sixth form. With just 70 pupils across the entire school, it offers a highly personalised educational experience rooted in traditional values and close-knit community. The school emphasises individual attention, broad intellectual development, and character formation in a quiet, countryside setting near Stroud.
- →Exceptionally small pupil numbers enabling highly individualised teaching and pastoral care
- →Rural, quiet setting with traditional educational approach emphasising both academic rigour and personal development
- →Flexible entry points and likely lower pressure environment than larger independents
Who thrives here
Pupils who thrive with direct teacher attention, those seeking a tight-knit community feel, and families who value traditional education over competitive league-table positioning. Suits independent learners and those who may find larger schools overwhelming.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
Church Street, Nailsworth
Stroud, Gloucestershire
GL6 0BP
Nearest stations
Frequently asked questions
What are the fees at The Acorn School?
Day fees at The Acorn School are approximately £13,649 per year (2025/26).
How do you get into The Acorn School?
The Acorn 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.
Is The Acorn School a boarding school?
The Acorn School is a day school in Stroud and does not offer boarding.
What is The Acorn School's latest inspection rating?
Ofsted rated The Acorn School “Outstanding” (2023).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Intimate, family-like atmosphere with strong staff-pupil relationships
✓Individualised attention and bespoke support for each child's learning style
✓Peaceful rural setting away from competitive rat-race ethos
Common concerns
!Not yet inspected; limited public accountability data for prospective parents
!Very small scale may limit breadth of specialised teaching, facilities, and co-curricular options
!Lack of established track record in public domain