Gina’s visit to Dauntsey’s School

Last but by no means least on this latest trip to visit British boarding schools was Dauntsey’s School, set in 150 acres of idyllic Wiltshire countryside near Bath between Devizes and Salisbury. There are around 850 pupils in total, with around 40% boarding and currently just 7% international. The school is academically ambitious and pupils are also encouraged to try new experiences. The extra-curricular offering is truly outstanding, while the adventure education programme includes climbing, orienteering, canoeing, mountaineering and a chance to sail the school’s Tall Ship, the Jolie Brise. Students clearly look after each other and this culture of mutual respect leads to a real sense of belonging within a kind and industrious community.

Academic 

The curriculum is impressively broad with a whole host of subjects on offer, such as Music Technology, Dance and Classical Civilisation. On average over 50% of students achieve A*/A at A Level. 

Boarding

Younger pupils in Years 7 to 9 up to the age of 14 board in the beautiful co-educational boarding house The Manor set in 65 acres of land and a short walk from the main campus. The older pupils are housed in four well-appointed single-sex houses; two for girls and two for boys.

Sport 

Impressive sports facilities include a swimming pool, climbing wall, golf course, sports pavilion and numerous all-weather and grass pitches, as well as an excellent athletics track.

Creative Arts

Performing Arts is particularly strong, with Drama and Music being celebrated, and the school is well known for the high standard of its productions. 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 Dance studio in the Sports complex is a well-used facility in the school. 

If you’d like to know more about this British boarding school or any of the others we recommend, please get in touch.