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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
Call us 01747 813111
King’s House enjoys a central location at the heart of Clayesmore School, offering immediate access to academic departments, sports facilities, and music rooms. The house is well-equipped with generous dormitory accommodation, social areas, kitchenettes, and quiet study spaces. A landscaped garden adds to the welcoming, homely feel.
The house accommodates around 45 girls, with boarders and day pupils fully integrated. This mix fosters an inclusive and balanced environment where friendships flourish across year groups. King’s has a tradition of strong academic engagement, musical talent, and spirited inter-house competition.
King’s House places a high value on kindness, respect, and self-motivation. Girls are encouraged to be independent while contributing to a supportive and collaborative house culture. The atmosphere is warm and inclusive, guided by the motto: “Lead by example, support each other.”
Houseparent: Mr Paul Smith (kings@clayesmore.com / kingshouseparent@clayesmore.com)
Mr Smith teaches English and is passionate about literature and debate. He lives on-site with his wife, Anna, and their dog, Jasper, contributing to the home-from-home atmosphere.
Assistant Houseparent: Mrs Sarah Howells (showells@clayesmore.com)
Mrs Howells teaches Art and supports the pastoral and emotional needs of the boys, with a focus on helping them develop confidence and resilience.
Matron: Mrs Michelle Kent (kings@clayesmore.com / kingsmatron@clayesmore.com)
Mrs Kent manages logistics and day-to-day wellbeing. Contact via phone: 01747 813140.
Visiting Tutors: Teachers are on duty each evening (18:30–22:30) to assist with prep and provide guidance.
Senior girls act as prefects and role models. They are instrumental in welcoming new students and promoting a positive house culture. Mentoring pods mix girls from different year groups, offering peer support and encouraging strong inter-year connections.
Day girls are valued members of the community. They are assigned lockers, participate in all house events, and follow the same routines. Combination padlocks are recommended.
Younger girls share dorms; some Sixth Formers may have single rooms. Respect for privacy and communal spaces is expected. Dorms are private spaces — others must seek permission to enter.
Each girl is expected to maintain a tidy space, take part in duties, and contribute positively to the house. Lockable drawers are provided for personal items.
Up to £3/week allowed for tuck purchases
No cash kept on site; use a card or pre-paid method
Weekends are relaxed and enjoyable: takeaway nights, sports, movie evenings, or outdoor activities. Optional Sunday trips to local towns are organised regularly. Facilities like the gym, pool, and music rooms remain open.
The King’s House support network includes:
Celebrated within the house with cake and small gatherings. Parents may send treats — please liaise with Matron. No parties on school nights.
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.