Best Schools in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole

Bournemouth Collegiate Preparatory School, located in Poole, serves as a vibrant and inclusive part of Bournemouth Collegiate School, offering education to children from ages 2 to 11. The school prides itself on fostering a growth mindset, where pupils are encouraged to take ownership of their learning, embracing qualities such as resilience and teamwork. It operates under a non-selective admissions policy, welcoming students of all backgrounds and abilities, ensuring that every child can progress at their own pace. The school is well-equipped with modern facilities and technology, providing a nurturing environment for ambitious learners. The curriculum is based on the National Curriculum, enriched with subjects like French, Spanish, and PSHE, along with a variety of extracurricular activities. The average class size is around 17 pupils, allowing for personalized attention and support. Bournemouth Collegiate Preparatory School has a strong track record, with two-thirds of its graduates moving on to Bournemouth Collegiate School's senior school. The school's approach to education emphasizes the value of self-awareness and community, making it a popular choice for families seeking a holistic educational experience. Its commitment to individualized learning and community engagement has earned it a reputation as one of the leading independent prep schools in the area.

Bournemouth Collegiate School is a co-educational independent day and boarding school located on two sites in Poole and Bournemouth, Dorset. The school was established in September 2009 through the merger of Wentworth College in Bournemouth and Uplands School in Poole. The school offers a rich tradition of education, with roots dating back to 1899 when it was originally founded as a school for young ladies with a strong Christian ethos. The school has demonstrated strong academic achievements, with over 50% of its GCSE grades at 9-7 and 92% achieving grades 9-4 in recent years. At A-Level, BCS achieved record-breaking results, with 86% of grades at A*-C and 40% of students earning A* or A grades. The school's value-added scores place it in the top 30% nationally for GCSE and top 2.5% at A-Level, highlighting its effectiveness in enhancing students' academic potential. Bournemouth Collegiate School is also recognized for its outstanding sports program, ranking in the top 4% of UK schools for sports. The school's co-curricular program emphasizes performance and sport, with notable achievements in athletics, cross-country, football, rugby, swimming, and tennis. The school accommodates approximately 650 students, offering a broad educational experience with a strong focus on co-curricular activities.

Burton Church of England Primary School, located at Campbell Road, Burton, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 7JY, is a state primary school for children aged 4 to 11. It is a mixed gender school with a religious character rooted in the Church of England. The school falls under the local authority of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. As of recent data, the school hosts 297 pupils, with a student-teacher ratio of 21:1. The school has a strong focus on personal development and early years provision, both of which were rated as "Good" in the most recent Ofsted inspection. Although the overall quality of education and leadership were noted as requiring improvement, the school's behaviour and attitudes were commended as "Good". Notably, 58% of pupils achieved the higher standard in reading, writing, and maths. The school's capacity is 316 pupils, indicating a relatively small and more personalized learning environment. The school is led by Mrs. Alison Timmings, and it does not offer boarding facilities. It is open for admissions without a nursery provision or sixth form. Despite its challenges, the school remains committed to providing a nurturing environment for its students.

Canford School is a prestigious independent coeducational boarding school located in Dorset, near the towns of Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole. Founded in 1923 by Reverend Percy Warrington, the school aims to prepare students for life by developing their character and academic abilities. Set in 250 acres of beautiful parkland, Canford is renowned for its picturesque setting and has been ranked among the top 10 most beautiful schools in the UK by The Daily Telegraph. The school has built a strong reputation for academic excellence, with 73% of pupils achieving grades 9–7 at GCSE and 53% securing A*/A grades at A Level. Notably, Canford School has consistently ranked highly in national rankings, such as the Sunday Times Parent Power guide, where it was ranked top in the South West region for A Level results and among the top 100 independent schools nationally. The school's educational approach emphasizes a balanced curriculum, including intellectual enrichment programs and a wide range of co-curricular activities. This holistic approach helps over 95% of pupils move on to university, with more than 80% attending top Russell Group institutions.

Corpus Christi Catholic Primary School is a state-funded, voluntary aided school located in Boscombe, Bournemouth, Dorset, with the address St James's Square, BH5 2BX. It operates under the Diocese of Portsmouth and serves children aged 4 to 11. The school is led by Mr. Simon Lennon and has a mixed gender entry, with a capacity of 436 pupils, currently accommodating 432 students. The school follows the National Curriculum, ensuring that all students receive a comprehensive education. It is proud of its high academic achievements, as reflected in its statutory assessment data. Corpus Christi is recognized for its supportive and caring environment, where every child is valued. Approximately 13.9% of the students are eligible for free school meals, indicating a commitment to supporting pupils from diverse backgrounds. Corpus Christi Catholic Primary School has been praised for its good Ofsted ratings, with a recent short inspection maintaining this positive assessment. The school does not have boarding facilities, nursery classes, or a sixth form, focusing solely on primary education. Its Roman Catholic ethos emphasizes Christ-centred learning, fostering a community that promotes growth and development for all students.

Highcliffe St Mark Primary School is located in the heart of Highcliffe, Christchurch, within the Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole council area. The school's address is Greenways, Highcliffe, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 5AZ. It operates as a foundation school, offering a comprehensive educational experience for its students. The school day typically runs from 8:45 AM to 3:10 PM, ensuring a structured and engaging learning environment. Highcliffe St Mark Primary School prides itself on a culture of respect and inclusivity, emphasizing the importance of community and personal development. The school's curriculum is designed to foster a love for learning, while also focusing on the well-being and social growth of its students. The school's commitment to environmental awareness is highlighted through initiatives such as the ECO Captains program, which encourages students to take an active role in sustainability. Although specific figures regarding academic performance or student body size are not readily available, the school's emphasis on creating a supportive and engaging learning environment is evident. The use of technology and resources like Matomo cookies for website optimization suggests a focus on modernizing educational experiences. Overall, Highcliffe St Mark Primary School is dedicated to providing a nurturing environment that prepares students for future challenges while fostering a sense of community and social responsibility.

Langside School, located in Poole, Dorset (postcode BH12 5BN), is a specialist independent school serving pupils aged 2 to 19 years with physical and learning difficulties, particularly those with severe needs. Established originally in 1956, the school evolved from a modest centre in Bournemouth to a dedicated purpose-built facility on Langside Avenue by 1959, thanks to community efforts and local authority support. Initially, it catered to 12 children with a multidisciplinary team including a qualified teacher, nurse, and physiotherapist, setting a foundation for a broad, balanced curriculum tailored to pupils with diverse abilities. Langside was officially awarded special school status in 2007 and continues to provide an inclusive educational environment focusing on holistic development. The school is recognized for its small, supportive setting with only around 30 students, allowing highly personalized teaching approaches. Recent Ofsted inspections rated the school as Good overall, while highlighting Outstanding behavior, attitudes, and personal development among students. Leadership and management consistently receive positive evaluation, reflecting strong governance and a commitment to quality education. The school’s dedication to fostering independence and confidence in students is matched by its comprehensive provision across all age groups, including early years and sixth form. Under the headship of Mr. Jonathan Seaward, Langside remains a vital resource within the Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole area for children requiring specialist support, emphasizing inclusive education and community integration.

Linwood School is a community special school located at Alma Road, Winton, Bournemouth, Dorset, with a focus on supporting students with a wide range of special educational needs and disabilities. The school serves students from ages 2 to 19, offering a comprehensive curriculum and support tailored to individual needs. The student body is predominantly male, with a student-teacher ratio of approximately 5:1, allowing for personalized attention. Linwood School has been recognized for its outstanding leadership and achievements in special education, receiving several national awards. The school provides a nurturing environment that emphasizes inclusivity, respect, and support, helping students thrive academically and personally. Despite challenges in meeting standard academic benchmarks, students make excellent progress relative to their abilities, often exceeding personal targets. The school is committed to continuous improvement, refining curriculum pathways to better meet pupils' needs. Linwood School boasts a variety of facilities, including a food tech room, music room, and sensory spaces, which enhance the learning experience. With a total of 386 students and a capacity of 417, the school is well-equipped to provide a supportive environment where every child can achieve their full potential. The school's outstanding Ofsted rating reflects its dedication to creating a safe and inclusive educational community.

Mudeford Community Infants' School is a vibrant community school located in Christchurch, Dorset, with a strong focus on creating a nurturing and caring learning environment. The school caters to children aged 4 to 7 and has a student body of 180 pupils. It operates as a local authority maintained school, with Mr. Daniel Pope as its headteacher. Mudeford Infants School prides itself on fostering a culture of respect, tolerance, and fairness, aligning with British values. The school has received positive Ofsted ratings, with recent assessments highlighting its good quality of teaching, learning, and assessment, as well as its effective leadership and management. It also offers strong support for children with special educational needs, ensuring all students have access to tailored interventions and resources. The student-teacher ratio is approximately 23:1, allowing for personalized attention and support. Approximately 12.8% of the students are eligible for free school meals, reflecting the school's commitment to inclusivity. The school's emphasis on personal development, behavior, and welfare is evident in its structured programs, such as SEAL and Rights Respecting sessions, which promote social and emotional well-being. Overall, Mudeford Infants School presents a supportive and challenging environment where children can thrive academically and personally.

Mudeford Junior School, located in Christchurch, Dorset, is a state primary school catering to children aged 7 to 11. It is a community school that operates under the Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole local authority. The school has a capacity of 264 pupils, with an actual enrollment of 258 students, and is led by Headteacher Mr. Mark Partridge. The student-teacher ratio is approximately 20:1, which is relatively typical for schools of its size. In recent Ofsted inspections, Mudeford Junior School has been rated as "Good," with particular strengths in personal development, behaviour, and welfare, as well as the quality of teaching, learning, and assessment being outstanding. The school has shown notable achievements in academic areas, with 82% of pupils achieving a higher standard in reading, writing, and maths at Key Stage 2. Additionally, the school performs well in maths, with 52% of students achieving high scores, placing it in the top 5% nationwide. Progress in maths is also commendable, ranking in the top 8% nationwide. However, there are some areas where the school faces challenges, such as a lower high score in writing compared to national averages. Despite these challenges, Mudeford Junior School maintains a strong reputation in the local area for its educational quality and student outcomes.

Park School, located at 43-49 Queens Park South Drive, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH8 9BJ, is a highly respected co-educational independent day school. Established in 1928, it provides an outstanding education for boys and girls aged from 0 to 11. The school is well-known for its excellence in many fields, with a strong focus on nurturing happy and well-rounded children. Park School's academic excellence is supported by its recent ISI Inspection report, which awarded it an "Excellent" rating across all areas. The school's curriculum is designed to challenge students while providing personalized support, leading to great success in achieving places at local Grammar Schools or securing scholarships to Independent Secondary Schools. With a pupil population of 356, Park School offers a range of co-curricular activities, including LAMDA, sports, music, and STEAM clubs. Its Nursery has an Outstanding Ofsted report, highlighting exceptional early years provision. The school's strong community ethos emphasizes values such as politeness, ambition, resilience, and kindness. The fees range from £2,500 to £6,000 per term, with scholarships and sibling discounts available. Overall, Park School is recognized for its academic achievements and its ability to foster a supportive and inclusive environment.

Portfield School is a specialist autism education provider located in Christchurch, Dorset (BH23 6BP), catering to students aged 4-19. The school supports students with an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP) and a diagnosis of autism. It is part of Autism Unlimited and offers a unique educational environment that focuses on preparing its students for independence and adulthood from an early age. The school has made significant improvements over the years, with a recent Ofsted report highlighting its good quality of education and leadership. Notably, the school's behavior and attitudes were rated as outstanding. Portfield School currently has around 119 students, indicating a personalized approach to education. The school's curriculum includes developing communication skills, which are often at an early developmental level, using symbols, signs, or pictures to meet the needs of its students. Portfield School's strategic approach to supporting autistic students has led to them making good progress in developing their skills and confidence. The school's small size allows for a focused and tailored educational experience, which is beneficial for students who require specialized support. Overall, Portfield School is recognized for its commitment to providing high-quality education and supporting students in achieving their full potential.

Somerford Primary School is located in Christchurch, Dorset, within the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole local authority. It is a community school offering education for children from the age of four to eleven. The school operates with a mission to provide an inclusive curriculum, ensuring all pupils achieve their best outcomes regardless of their needs or abilities. The school's dedicated staff strive to create a fun and engaging learning environment, fostering confident individuals who can lead fulfilling lives. Somerford Primary School has high aspirations for children identified with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), promoting their successful inclusion. The school has a pupil capacity of 210, with currently 193 pupils enrolled. Approximately 50.8% of the children are eligible for free school meals, indicating a diverse student body. The pupil-to-teacher ratio is 19:1, which places it in the top 42% nationwide. Additionally, the average teacher salary is £38,500, ranking among the top 48% nationwide. This suggests that the school invests in quality teaching, which is reflected in its ability to provide effective educational support to its students.

St Aldhelm’s Academy, located at Herbert Avenue, Poole, within the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole local authority area (BH12 4HS), is a co-educational secondary school serving students aged 11 to 16. The academy is part of the AUTHENTIC EDUCATION GROUP LIMITED and has a capacity of 900 students, currently educating 844 pupils. Notably, over 41% of its students are eligible for free school meals, reflecting a strong commitment to inclusion and support within the community. The school follows a non-selective admissions policy and is recognized for its dedicated approach to both academic and vocational pathways. The school’s curriculum is designed to be broad and balanced, offering traditional core subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, and Physical Education, alongside a diverse selection of options including the arts, humanities, technology, and practical courses at Key Stage 4. St Aldhelm’s Academy prides itself on fostering an inclusive, student-centered environment where every individual is encouraged to thrive. The academy has seen recent improvements, achieving a “Good” Ofsted rating in 2021. Teaching ratios are strong, with a pupil-to-teacher ratio of 14:1, placing it among the top 5% nationally. While academic progress and attainment scores have historically ranked below national averages—for instance, with 17% of students achieving Grade 5 or above in English and Maths GCSEs—the school continues to prioritise pastoral care and enrichment opportunities. Recent years have seen the academy focus on stability, leadership, and community engagement, aiming to better serve its diverse student population.

St Edward's Roman Catholic/Church of England School, located at Dale Valley Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 3HY, is a co-educational voluntary aided school established in 1963. It serves students from ages 11 to 18, offering a broad curriculum that includes a variety of GCSE subjects and a growing sixth form for A-level students. The school is uniquely affiliated with both the Roman Catholic and Church of England denominations, making it one of the few joint schools of its kind in the UK. St Edward's has a student body of over 1,000 students, with a student-teacher ratio of 16:1, which supports personalized learning. The school has been consistently rated as "Good" by Ofsted, with strong feedback on leadership and teaching quality. Notably, 44% of pupils achieve grade 5 or above at GCSE, and 91.8% complete their main study program. The school also offers robust support for students with special educational needs, with a dedicated SEN team providing tailored support. St Edward's has a strong track record in A-level results, with improvements in recent years, such as 21.2% of passes at A* and A* to B grades in 2024, showcasing its academic strength and commitment to student success.

St Joseph's Catholic Primary School, located in Christchurch, Dorset, serves a mixed-gender community of approximately 215 pupils aged 5 to 11. Led by Headteacher Mrs. Elizabeth Rippon, this voluntary aided Roman Catholic school fosters a nurturing environment grounded in its religious ethos, encouraging students to live and serve in the spirit of Jesus. With a capacity for 235 students, the school is well-positioned within the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole local authority. The school is recognized for its strong academic performance, especially in reading. Notably, St Joseph's was the top primary school in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area for pupils achieving Greater Depth reading at the end of Key Stage 2, highlighting its exceptional literacy teaching. Its Ofsted inspection history underscores the quality of education provided, with the school currently rated as "Good" overall. Furthermore, its early years provision has been rated "Outstanding," reflecting the school's commitment to high standards from the earliest stage of education. St Joseph's Catholic Primary also supports a diverse student body, with around 32.6% of pupils eligible for free school meals, illustrating its role in serving a broad socio-economic community. The school emphasizes not only academic success but also a strong moral and spiritual foundation, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience for its students.

St Katharine's Church of England Primary School, located in Southbourne, Bournemouth, is a vibrant educational community catering to students aged four to eleven. With a student population of approximately 437, the school provides a comprehensive and inclusive environment that fosters academic achievement and personal development. The school's curriculum is designed to inspire pupils to thrive in a changing world, emphasizing Christian values of friendship, trust, thankfulness, hope, wisdom, love, courage, and community (Koinonia). The school's unique approach includes a focus on spirituality, diversity, environment, and possibilities, alongside a strong emphasis on reading and vocabulary. This curriculum design aims to prepare children for life by providing them with knowledge, skills, and experiences to engage in a diverse British society and the wider world. St Katharine's Church of England Primary School is recognized for its outstanding educational standards, with a strong reputation built on its commitment to providing a broad, balanced, and inclusive curriculum. The school's innovative approach to wellbeing, known as 'Head, Heart', enhances the overall educational experience. The school's leadership, under the guidance of Headteacher Mrs Nicola St John, plays a pivotal role in shaping its educational vision and ensuring a supportive environment for all students.

St Martin's School, located in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (postcode BH3 7NA), is an independent preparatory school with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1914. This family-owned coeducational school caters to boys and girls aged 4 to 11 years, offering a nurturing and homely environment that fosters confidence, self-respect, and academic excellence. The school prides itself on its motto, "Thorough," which reflects its commitment to delivering a comprehensive education centered around core skills such as English, Mathematics, Science, and the arts, supported by a broad curriculum that includes digital technology and religious education. St Martin's combines traditional values with modern resources, utilizing a large grassed sports field, playground, and nearby leisure center facilities for physical education, including weekly swimming lessons. The school maintains a strong academic reputation, with approximately 90% of pupils successfully meeting selective grammar school entrance requirements, and many earning scholarships to prestigious independent secondary schools. With around 86 pupils enrolled, the school balances small-class advantages and individual attention with high academic standards, ensuring that children are well prepared for their next educational stage. This blend of a caring community and excellent academic outcomes makes St Martin’s School a distinguished choice for early years education in the area.

St. Walburga's Catholic Primary School, located in Moordown, Bournemouth (BH9 3BY), is a co-educational Roman Catholic school serving boys and girls aged 4 to 11. With an enrolment of approximately 420 pupils, the school operates under the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole local authority. Its mission is strongly rooted in Catholic values aimed at nurturing well-rounded, caring individuals who excel academically and morally by ‘walking in the footsteps of Jesus.’ This ethos is actively integrated into school life through regular prayer assemblies, liturgies, and engagement with the wider parish community, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. Academically, St. Walburga's has demonstrated consistent performance, evidenced by a Key Stage 2 average score of 106, which positions the school above many others in the area. The school received a “Good” rating in its latest Ofsted inspection (January 2020), with outstanding marks for personal development, behavior, and welfare, underscoring its commitment to nurturing not just intellectual growth but also emotional and social well-being. The quality of teaching, learning, assessment, leadership, and early years provision were all rated good, reflecting a strong, stable educational framework. The school’s Catholic ethos, combined with its strong academic outcomes and emphasis on personal development, defines its core strength as a community-focused institution striving to develop children’s faith, knowledge, and character alike.

Talbot Heath School, located in Bournemouth, is a renowned independent school for girls that has been providing a high-quality education since its founding in 1886 by Mary Broad. Initially known as Bournemouth High School, it was renamed Talbot Heath when it moved to its current site in 1936. The school is known for its eclectic modernist architecture, designed by a pupil of Lutyens and featuring interior design elements from Heals. Over the years, the school has remained committed to its founding ethos of delivering a first-class liberal education to the daughters of the professional classes. Talbot Heath is celebrated for its holistic approach to education, fostering a supportive environment where students can thrive without undue pressure. The school has a strong focus on academic rigor and offers a range of subjects, including sciences, which have seen significant success in recent years, with students achieving high grades in GCSEs and moving on to pursue careers in medicine, veterinary science, and natural sciences. Talbot Heath also offers a robust sports program, with notable achievements in tennis and swimming. With a current enrollment of 316 students, including 55 sixth-formers, the school continues to be a respected institution in the area.

Talbot House School, located in Bournemouth, is an independent preparatory school that has been providing quality education since its founding in 1969. The school is known for its high academic standards, good manners, and a strong sense of community, fostering a supportive environment where students can thrive. It caters to boys and girls from ages 3 to 11, offering a comprehensive education that lays the foundation for future success. The school has an excellent track record of students gaining places at local grammar schools and securing scholarships to other independent schools. With a strong focus on academic achievement, Talbot House School has a current enrollment of 102 students, divided between boys and girls. The small class sizes allow for personalized attention, which contributes to the school's high academic achievements. Talbot House School is a day school, offering a coeducational environment where students from diverse backgrounds can learn together. The school's fees range from approximately £1,945 to £3,488 per term, and it provides scholarships and sibling discounts to support families. Under the leadership of Head Teacher Mrs. Tracey Wilson, Talbot House continues to uphold its reputation for excellence in education.

The Bishop of Winchester Academy is a Church of England academy located in Bournemouth, Dorset, serving students aged 11 to 18. The academy is part of the Portsmouth and Winchester Diocesan Academies Trust, with Mr Paul McKeown as the principal. With a student population of approximately 1148, the academy offers a distinctly Christian ethos, fostering respectful attitudes and positive relationships between students and staff. The academy has a strong SEN unit, supporting 3% of students with special educational needs. The Bishop of Winchester Academy is recognized for its academic performance, with 41% of pupils achieving grade 5 or more at GCSE. Additionally, 88.60% of pupils complete their main study program. The school's holistic approach includes a range of extracurricular activities, contributing to a diverse and inclusive environment. The academy has received a "Good" rating from Ofsted across all categories, including quality of education, behavior, personal development, leadership, and sixth-form provision. The academy's commitment to nurturing students' talents and fulfilling their potential is evident in its mission statement, "Sapere Aude" - Have the Courage to be Wise. Overall, the academy provides a supportive and challenging environment for students to thrive.

The Bourne Academy, located in Bournemouth, Dorset, is a state-funded secondary school that serves students aged 11 to 18. Established in 2009, it has a student body of approximately 933 pupils, with a slightly higher proportion of boys. The school was formerly known as Kings High School and underwent a significant transformation with a £10 million investment in 2012 to become a modern educational facility. The Bourne Academy is sponsored by Canford School and operates as a single-academy trust. It is known for its strong academic programs, exceptional pastoral support, and commitment to enrichment opportunities. The school emphasizes the ASPIRE values, which include ambition, self-confidence, physical literacy, independent learning, resilience, and emotional literacy. These values are integral to fostering a supportive environment where students can thrive academically and socially. The Academy has shown improvements in student progress, particularly in subjects like English and mathematics. While the school's A Level scores are below the national average, it has made significant strides in narrowing the gap with other schools. The Bourne Academy also has a high attendance rate of 95%, indicating a strong commitment to education among its students.

The Bournemouth and Poole College is a prominent educational institution located in the heart of Dorset, specifically at North Road, Poole, BH14 0LS. With a rich history dating back to the early 20th century, the college has evolved significantly over the years, particularly following its formation in 1977 from the merger of Bournemouth College of Technology and Poole Technical College. Today, it stands as the largest provider of Further Education and Apprenticeships in the region, offering a diverse range of courses from vocational diplomas to foundation and BSc degrees, as well as English language programs. The college boasts an impressive enrollment of approximately 5,442 students, with around 200 being international students from diverse backgrounds. It is renowned for its strong focus on English Language learning, positioning it as a leading centre in the UK for this discipline. The college's faculty includes leading experts and excellent teaching teams, supported by state-of-the-art facilities such as extensive libraries and multimedia resources. Its commitment to meeting the needs of both learners and employers has earned it a Beacon Award for International Student Support, reflecting its dedication to delivering high-quality education.

The Priory Church of England Primary School is located in Christchurch, Dorset, within the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole local authority. It is a voluntary aided school that caters to children aged 4 to 11, offering a mixed gender education. The school operates under the Christian ethos of the Church of England, with a strong emphasis on community and inclusivity. The Priory School strives to inspire its students to learn and flourish in a caring environment. It is committed to providing a safe and purposeful setting where all can thrive. The school's mission is grounded in its Christian heritage, aiming to help children achieve their full potential while fostering a lifelong love of learning. Currently, the school has a capacity of 210 students and is attended by 204 pupils. Approximately 9.3% of the students are eligible for free school meals. The school has received several awards, including the History Quality Mark and the Computing Quality Mark, highlighting its commitment to excellence in specific subject areas. Additionally, it was recognized with the Leading Parent Partnership Award in 2024, reflecting its strong engagement with the community. These achievements underscore the school's dedication to providing a rounded education and building strong relationships with families.

Victoria Education Centre is a non-maintained special school located at 12 Lindsay Road, Branksome Park, Poole, Dorset, BH13 6AS. It is part of the Livability group and caters to children and young people aged 3 to 19 with physical disabilities and special educational needs. The school is committed to providing the best possible education for its students, often focusing on individual needs and capabilities. It has a capacity of 130 students and currently has 110 pupils, with about 18.8% of them eligible for free school meals. Victoria Education Centre has been recognized for its outstanding provision in the past, although it was rated as "Good" in the 2019 Ofsted inspection. The school excels in supporting students' personal development, offering a nurturing environment where pupils can thrive despite their challenges. Additionally, it provides a range of educational programs, including nursery classes and a sixth form, which prepares students for their future transitions. The school has also been involved in projects like "Seen but Seldom Heard," which empowers young people with disabilities to express themselves through poetry, showcasing their unique perspectives and promoting societal understanding. Despite its strengths, the school has faced challenges in achieving traditional academic benchmarks, such as GCSE grades.

Winchelsea School is a community special school located in Parkstone, Poole, within the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council area. It is dedicated to providing a supportive learning environment for students with diverse needs, particularly those with Moderate Learning Difficulties. The school emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusivity, holding a Silver Award as a Rights Respecting School. This commitment to inclusivity fosters a culture where every student feels valued and respected. Winchelsea School offers a unique 6th Form provision, allowing many students to continue their education beyond their initial schooling. The school maintains strong links with local colleges such as Bournemouth and Poole College, facilitating pathways for further education. Recent achievements include pupils passing Level 1 qualifications and a pupil achieving the benchmark for phonics screening, demonstrating significant progress across the curriculum. The school's curriculum is enriched by engaging themes and activities, such as the 'Heroes that Help Us' history topic, which includes visits to local police and fire stations. Additionally, initiatives like the 'Active 8 programme' support students in developing life skills and social interactions. These programs reflect the school's focus on holistic development and community engagement.