Welcome to the Shaftesbury School website.  Designed to reflect the life of the school, we hope it will also provide you with the information you need to make the right decision at this important time in your child’s development. The values at Shaftesbury School are built upon four key strands: Firstly, there is the school’s Church of England Foundation.  Our historic partnership with local churches dates back to 1718 when the first Shaftesbury School was established, and among the many values it inspires is our promotion of the uniqueness of every individual regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, creed or sexual orientation.

Secondly, there is the ethos behind our Specialist Sports College status.  Secured in 1999 and achieving two national awards, it is about far more than extra provision in sport.  It promotes the skills and qualities essential to lifelong success and happiness, for example the value of application, sacrifice, teamwork, co-operation, fearlessness of failure but humility in success.

Next is the role played by our international community of boarders.  We have one hundred boarders from the UK and many countries around the world.  These students bring with them faiths, traditions and heritages which enrich the lives of our local community.  They also contribute to our mission to develop global perspectives and a spirit of internationalism.

Last, but by no means least is our commitment to raising student aspirations.  Our ethos creates a sense of belonging, the development of role models and celebrates accomplishment.  There are lots of opportunities for leadership and responsibility, giving our young people the confidence they need to take the action required to move successfully on to the next stage in their lives.

In 2011 77.7% of our students achieved five or more of the top grades at GCSE, placing the School in the top 25% of schools nationally.  Performance at A level has long been a strength of our Sixth Form Partnership with Sturminster Newton, with a pass rate of 98% in 2011.  The independent ALPS organisation rates outcomes for Shaftesbury and Sturminster students as Excellent, and in the top 25% in the country.

The completion of a £9 million building and refurbishment project has brought enviable resources and facilities to the school.  This investment, together with the hard work and dedication of our teaching and support staff, enables Shaftesbury School to provide the best possible environment for your child’s wellbeing and success.

Mark Blackman
Headteacher

Do you have a view about the school?

Many parents and other members of our community have said they are often keen to pass on positive comments about what we do as a school, or praise for our students, but are not sure of the best way to do this. Now you can use our "myview" e-mail address.

If you would like to pass on your thoughts on what we do well or areas we might improve then please feel free to let us know.

myview@shaftesburyschool.co.uk