Address: Child Okeford, Blandford, Dorset DT11 8HN
Website: hanfordschool.co.uk
Founded: 1947
Number of Pupils: 90
Ages: 7–13
Fees: Boarding from £7,752 – £10,116; Day from £5,370 – £7,758
Head Teacher: Mrs Hilary Phillips
Religious Affiliation: Church of England
Entrance Procedure: No formal entrance exam. All enquiries are welcomed.
Contact: Julia Horton, Admissions Manager
Email: [email protected]
School Visits: Prospective parents are welcome at any time. We hold an Open Morning each term and prospective pupils have Taster Days throughout the year.
The Curriculum
Our curriculum is based on the Common Entrance syllabus which incorporates the National Curriculum. Girls learn Latin, current affairs, ICT, religious education, drama, music and music appreciation, art appreciation, art, pottery and handwork/textiles.
Games & The Arts
Sport covers netball, hockey, tennis, gymnastics, cricket, pop lacrosse, rounders, athletics, cross country and swimming. Hanford is also famous for its riding and busy stables; nearly all girls have riding lessons, many bringing their own pony back to school.
Pastoral Care
Hanford is known for its family atmosphere; the girls make friends across the year groups and, because of its size, everybody gets to know each other extremely well. Boarding is a key part of Hanford life with full boarding and flexi boarding remaining extremely popular.
Senior Exit Schools
Choosing a Senior school can be a daunting prospect at times however Hanford prides itself on helping parents find the right school for their child. The Head and senior staff are particularly well placed to help and advise with this important decision.
Recent Scholarships
Year on year, Hanford girls enjoy great academic success with over 90 scholarships awarded by leading senior schools in the past 9 years, a remarkable achievement for a non selective school. Recently scholarships have been awarded by Sherborne Girls, Canford, Bryanston, Oundle, Stowe, Tudor Hall, St Mary’s Calne, Godolphin, Leweston, Blundells, King’s Bruton and Ampleforth.
Head Teacher’s Philosophy
Hanford allows children to be children, to enjoy their childhood while providing the opportunity to excel in any sphere. Hanford nurtures the seeds of achievement and independence of all girls allowing them to flourish wherever they go.
Outstanding Characteristics
This is an extremely happy girls day and boarding school where academic achievements sit comfortably alongside creativity, sport, friendship and fun.