Dorset prep school for DD?

[farmers]

Relocating and don't know much about schools in the area.
Have heard good things about Knighton House and Hanford (although not sure about boarding just yet).
We were also looking at Port Regis but it seems a little more like a business iyswim - that's not really based on anything other than the website though so could be completely wrong.

We're looking for somewhere a bit 'Enid Blyton-y' with lots of outdoors activities, tree climbing and ponies and such but that will also be able to push DD academically if she needs it.

Anyway, would be very grateful for opinions of schools in the area or in the general South West.

Thanks very much!

[chopchopchop]

We're a bit out of area but have heard very good reports of Knighton House. Very outdoors, and with a reputation of producing interesting and sparky girls.

[Stopyourmessingaround]

Not sure which part of Dorset you're looking at but if you want Enid Blyton-y you should definitely look at Talbot Heath on the edge of Bournemouth. Beautiful school surrounded by woods and academically very good. We would have loved to have sent our DD there but we've also got a DS so needed a mixed school.

[wcg75]

We have recently relocated and chose Castle Court. Lots of outdoor space and a fantastic environment. Really pleased with it so far in terms of teaching as well so far.

[farmers]

Location is quite flexible at the moment as we are self-employed.
Actually hadn't seen Talbot Heath but we will have a look!

[Stopyourmessingaround]

Definitely go and have a look - it's really lovely. Friend's daughters are thriving there. We moved down to Poole last year and it's the best thing we've ever done x

[SisterViktorine]

Sherborne Prep in in town so it doesn't have the rural setting, but it has a very Enid Blyton attitude. The kids are ludicrously happy and mud is a key feature of the curriculum. My DS is out in our garden with his school friends right now and it's incredibly Swallows and Amazons. No street cred necessary.

Sherborne is a great area to live in. We've been here two years having relocated from the SE and we adore it. Quality of life is immeasurably better.

[Schoolsearch2015]

We sent our son to Port Regis Sept 2016 and are really pleased we chose the school. It's very polished, well maintained, has amazing facilities (some of which put senior schools to shame!) - but most importantly, it is a really friendly, welcoming school that just has a warm atmosphere. It's not formal, still has the "country prep" feel, and is not at all snobby in my opinion. Beautiful grounds where children can enjoy lots of outdoor play and burn off energy. Really interesting extra curricular activities and clubs and according to my son the food is really really good with plenty of selection. Academics are great and cater to all levels and they also have an excellent learning support department. I would say that they are a progressive school, with their finger on the pulse. Children always look happy when I go there. Really impressed with staff generally - very invested in the children and the newish headmaster is great and not afraid to get his hands dirty so to speak...his wife is also on staff. Would not hesitate to recommend. I have visited other schools in the area and Port Regis is a few steps ahead in so many ways.

[BlueChampagne]

Friends and their kids adore Sherborne prep.

[Caulkheadupnorf]

Hanford. Without any doubt.

[hurstdawn2]

Anyone have any feedback on Sherbourne Prep, I am re-locating and am keen to understand more about the school from those who attend/have attended. Any feedback appreciated, thank you

[Dergadgeghead]

We relocated to the South West mainly for schools as we didn't like the London hothouse approach for our children, and have been very happy with Sherborne Prep. The staff seem to have priorities straight, children are thriving and it's a really friendly community. Would recommend!