Dauntsey’s
Devizes, Wiltshire, England
Dauntsey’s
Devizes, Wiltshire, England
Overview
Dauntsey’s is a leading co-educational boarding and day school for 11-18 year olds, set in 150 acres of idyllic Wiltshire countryside. A culture of academic ambition is firmly rooted in the School but pupils are also encouraged to try new experiences, and the School’s adventure education and extra-curricular programmes set it apart. Pupils are expected to look after each other and this culture of mutual respect leads to a real sense of belonging within a forgiving and productive community.
At a glance
Academic
The broad and balanced curriculum together with a flexible timetable offer the chance to study subjects ranging from Classical Civilisation to Music Technology and Arabic. Teachers are highly qualified subject specialists who provide lessons which are challenging, stimulating and fun. Independent learning is a feature of the curriculum and differentiated teaching programmes aim to foster intellectual curiosity and creativity in pupils. On average over 50% of candidates achieve A*/A at A Level.
Boarding
Pupils up to age 14 live in the co-educational Manor, a mansion set in 65 acres a short walk from the main school, before moving on to one of 4 single sex senior boarding houses. Staff live-in, often with their families, and run the houses to provide a secure and friendly ‘home’ for the pupils who develop a strong sense of belonging in a thriving boarding community. Activities range from Laser Quest in the woods to inter-house sporting competitions and day-trips to attractions across the south of England.
Sports
Sport is part of everyday life at Dauntsey’s; there is something for everyone from elite athletes to energetic all-rounders. All the usual team and individual sports are offered with a range of excellent facilities on-site and everyone – girls and boys – has the chance to experience competitive sport. Facilities include an indoor swimming pool, a climbing wall, a golf course and numerous grass and all-weather pitches. Extra-curricular sports include rifle shooting, fencing, horse riding and archery.
Creative arts
Drama and Music are particularly strong; the School is well known for the high standard of its productions. Recent shows include Jesus Christ Superstar, As You Like It and an all-boy version of Matthew Bourne’s Lord of the Flies. Many pupils take instrumental lessons and participate in concerts and masterclasses, and everyone can get involved due to the number of drama, dance and music productions. The visual arts are strong too and Design Technology is an increasingly popular A Level choice.
Did you know?
- Dauntsey’s impressive adventure education programme offers mountaineering, orienteering, climbing, canoeing and even sailing the School’s own Tall Ship, the Jolie Brise.
- The Jolie Brise, 3-time winner of the legendary Fastnet race, has to-date sailed three-quarters of the distance to the moon with 6,500 pupils (and counting!) as her bold crew.
