An independent, co-educational day and boarding school located in the beautiful Dorset countryside.
Ages 8 - 13
Ages 13 - 16
Ages 16 - 18
Whether our students aim for a place at a Russell Group University, entry to RADA or the confidence and skills to start their own unique business, all our pupils are valued from the day they join us in Prep to when they leave us in Sixth Form. They benefit from growing in a friendly, genuinely open and happy atmosphere in a school which is ambitious and nurturing in equal measure.
125 Glorious Years
Clayesmore was founded in 1896, by Lex Devine. A man ahead of his time in terms of his vision for education. His guiding principle was to offer ‘an all-round education’; he understood the importance of a traditional academic education but he also recognised that, without a strong foundation of values and attitudes, it was nothing. That ethos remains at the heart of a Clayesmore education today.
Clayesmore settled in Iwerne Minster in the summer term of 1933, having previously had homes in Pangbourne, Berkshire and Winchester, Hampshire. In 1974, it was joined by Clayesmore Preparatory School, originally Charlton Marshall School, which had been founded in 1929 by R.A.L. Everett. In the following year the school became co-educational.
In Clayesmore's 125 year history, the spirit of adventure and pursuit of happiness in every aspect of life, including academics has always been clear. We encourage every pupil to 'have a go' with the aim that they uncover their passion and fulfil their ambitions.
Service and leadership are key principles of a Clayesmore education, and always have been. The Sixth Form programme, ACE (action, community, environment) provides opportunities for all pupils to spend time in the local community supporting the elderly, young children or the environment with an aim to dvelop a culture of 'giving back' and a sense of responsibility for the wider world.
We are blessed to be located in the most glorious Dorset countryside, surrounded by stunning coastline. A Clayesmore education has always embraced the outdoors and the benefits that can bring. Every year, Pupils take part in the Duke of Edinburgh Award programme as well as enjoying country sports, watersports, equestrian activities, climbing, walking and much more.
In our 125th year, we proudly introduce LEX, a bold and ambitious weekend programme of trips, experiences and events. LEX is the embodiment of our founder's original principle, enabling pupils to seize fresh opportunities, develop new skills and provide them with transformative experiences and skills to draw upon forever.
A Packed Programme for Parents
Clayesmore's calendar is always full of wonderful musical, sporting and social events for parents. We encourage all our parents to join in, make new friends and become part of our school family.
Come and visit Clayesmore to experience first hand our warm, friendly culture and find out more about our excellent educational and pastoral ethos.
Register Now
Clayesmore School, Iwerne Minster, Blandford, Dorset. DT11 8LL.
Clayesmore School (HMC, IAPS, ISBA) is a registered company in England and Wales registered at Iwerne Minster, Blandford, Dorset, DT11 8LL.
(Registered Company No: 359779 – Charity Registration No: 306214 – VAT No: 186834226). Site & content © 2021 Clayesmore School. All rights reserved.
