Private schools Dorset/Somerset border

[thegreatgatsbee]

Need some advice on good prep schools around Wincanton/Sherborne/Bruton area - 3 girls aged 3, 5 & 10. Moving down next year with job. Have done some research but every website is the same nowadays! Do any stand head and shoulders above the rest? Thanks. x

Did you look at Sherborne Prep or Sandroyd?

To be honest, they are all pretty similar in terms of offer and outcome. I would just choose the one that feels like the best fit with your family and has the easiest travel.

Really, the choices are Port Regis, Hazlegrove, Sherborne Prep, Leweston, Handford, Knighton House, Perrot Hill, Sandroyd.

Port Regis is the glossiest. Hazlegrove (arguably) the sportiest. Handford the only single-sex. Sherborne Prep has access to Sherborne School & Girls' School facilities which adds to the offer.

Our sporty DS just started in Year 4 at Hazlegrove and is loving it, but he is a boarder. I would agree that the best option is to invest time in doing a few visits. I think a good headmaster can make a real difference to the whole school experience, and the new Head at Hazlegrove gave an impression head and shoulders above some others we met.

Good luck. There are some strong schools in the region.