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Boarding Schools in Dorset

Dorset maintains a strong boarding presence, with independent schools offering residential education in established coastal and countryside campuses. Families considering boarding can compare institutions across the county, reviewing boarding models, academic expectations and long-term progression routes.

Explore all private schools in Dorset, or compare schools across South West.

Showing 13 schools

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Bournemouth Collegiate School

Bournemouth Collegiate School

Bournemouth, Dorset, BH5 2DY

Co-Ed 11 - 19 385 Day & Boarding

Fees from £3,728 per term

Bryanston School

Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 0PX

Co-Ed 3 - 18 778 Day & Boarding

Fees from £3,704 per term

Clayesmore School

Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 8LL

Co-Ed 2 - 19 489 Day & Boarding

Hanford School

Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 8HN

Girls 7 - 13 69 Day & Boarding

Fees from £5,370 per term

Kings Bournemouth

Bournemouth, Dorset, BH2 6LD

Co-Ed 14 - 25 74 Day & Boarding

Leweston School

Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 6EN

Co-Ed 2 - 19 576 Day & Boarding

Fees from £871 per term

Frequently asked questions about private schools in Dorset

How many private schools are there in Dorset?
There are 23 independent schools across Dorset, including a mix of prep, senior and sixth form.
Are there boarding schools in Dorset?
Yes, independent schools across Dorset offer boarding options, including full, weekly and flexi boarding.

Families can compare boarding vs day schools to understand the differences.
https://schoolscout.uk/posts/boarding-vs-day-schools
What age can children start private school in Dorset?
Most independent schools across Dorset accept pupils from age 3 or 4, with key entry points at 7+, 11+, 13+ and 16+.

See the UK private school admissions timeline to understand when to apply at each stage.
https://schoolscout.uk/posts/uk-private-school-admissions-timeline
How do I apply to private schools in Dorset?
Applications typically begin 1-2 years in advance and involve registration, assessments and interviews.

Families can follow the UK private school admissions timeline to understand entry points, key dates and the overall process.
https://schoolscout.uk/posts/uk-private-school-admissions-timeline
What types of boarding are available in Dorset?
Options include full boarding, weekly boarding and flexi boarding.

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