Is everything ok at Sherborne Boys School?

[Germanpedant]

Does anyone know what’s going on at Sherborne Boys School? I’m told it’s a really nice, unpretentious school for decent, all-round, middle of the road chaps. I also hear, though, that they are struggling to recruit boys, that they are making teachers redundant and that loads of senior staff are leaving or have left (including the Head, the Deputy Head and Bursar). It may be nothing but, as a parent of an 11 yo considering boarding, I’d be interested to hear if anyone knows any more. Thanks!

Can't comment on numbers, but probably facing similar issues like most independent schools, including trimming excess staff. Schools in the independent and maintained sectors are doing the same.

The Head is moving on after nearly 10 years, which seems normal. I believe the Bursar is moving on to Winchester College.

Good school for decent all rounders, and does not have pointy elbows.

Thanks so much. That’s super helpful.

I know the school well and there's nothing dodgy going on. As the previous poster said, the Bursar is going to Winchester, Dep Head has a Headship and Head is leaving after 10 years, so entirely appropriate. It's a great school and I would strongly recommend (didn't send DS there as we moved house, but have many, many friends with DSs there and they rave about it).

I have two DS currently at Sherborne, and we are very happy indeed. They are both thriving academically and in sport & co-curricular.

There has been quite a lot of change over the past year, I think triggered by the merger of two senior and two prep schools, followed by a re-formed governing body and new Head. I haven't noticed any falling-off in teaching or pastoral care, both of which are excellent. I would expect some shuffling of the pack with changes at the top but the new Head has been v well received and brings fresh energy and vision. Given this appointment, along with the USP of the 'separate but together' relationship with Sherborne Girls, I'd say the school is able to look forward with optimism.

Thanks, Blastosis1. That’s reassuring.

Hi there. As others have said, all very normal moves for Head of 10 years, a senior Deputy getting a headship and Bursar off to Winchester.
New head has glowing reviews and the merger has added stability and great opportunities for a true “best of both worlds” education.
We have many friends with boys there doing very well (we have girls) and sport is on the up!