All-ThroughCo-educationalBoardingOfsted · Not yet inspected
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Abbotsholme School

Uttoxeter, Staffordshire · ST14 5BS

AAB+ A-level

0%

9–7 GCSE

22.7%

Day fees

£16k

Inspection

Not yet inspected

School website

Abbotsholme is a distinctive rural all-through independent school set across 140 acres on the Derbyshire–Staffordshire border, founded in 1889 with a progressive educational philosophy emphasizing 'fresh thinking' and holistic development. It combines day and boarding provision for ages 2–20, with particular strengths in equestrian studies, outdoor education, and pastoral care rooted in the principle that every child is known individually. The school's ethos reflects its progressive heritage, balancing academic rigour with substantial co-curricular breadth including a football academy, performance pathways, and experiential learning.

  • Specialist equestrian curriculum and livery facilities integrated into school life
  • All-through provision (ages 2–20) with strong pastoral care and small cohorts (230 pupils)
  • Rural campus with 140 acres enabling outdoor education, Duke of Edinburgh, and farm-based learning
  • Football and hockey performance pathways alongside mainstream academics
  • Boarding facilities for families seeking flexibility or international entry

Who thrives here

Abbotsholme suits curious, rounded pupils who thrive in a rural setting and value hands-on learning, outdoor pursuits, and animal-related education. It attracts families who prioritize pastoral relationships and co-curricular depth over pure academic pressure, as well as equestrian enthusiasts and footballers seeking specialist pathways.

Strengths at a glance

Exam results50th pctSports56th pctCo-curricular50th pctValue vs peers50th pctPastoral & wellbeing50th pct

Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.

At a glance

School typeAll-Through · Boarding
Founded1889
Number of pupils230
Pupils with SEND66
Age range3–18
GenderCo-educational
Day fees£15.6k/yr (inc. lunch)
Boarding fees£28.5k/yr (inc. meals)
AssociationsISC
Settingrural
LocationRural location on Staffordshire/Derbyshire border; rail access via Uttoxeter; school operates bus routes for day pupils from wider region.

Contact & visit

Rocester

Uttoxeter, Staffordshire

ST14 5BS

www.abbotsholme.co.uk
01889590217
Mrs Amy Thornton, Headteacher

Nearest stations

Uttoxeter5 min
Stoke-on-Trent25 min
Lichfield30 min

Recent investment

Football Academy facilities expansion
Hockey Performance Pathway development
VetPath Summer School programme (veterinary/animal science focus)

Frequently asked questions

What are the fees at Abbotsholme School?

Day fees at Abbotsholme School are approximately £15,600 per year (2024/25). Boarding fees are higher.

How do you get into Abbotsholme School?

Abbotsholme School admits pupils at 3+, 4+, 7+, 8+, 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by Interview, Assessment. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.

What are Abbotsholme School's exam results?

At Abbotsholme School, 0% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 22.7% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.

Is Abbotsholme School a boarding school?

Abbotsholme School offers boarding as well as day places.

What parents say

Frequently praised

Pupils genuinely known and cared for; strong pastoral relationships

Unique blend of academic learning with experiential and outdoor education

Equestrian and farm-based learning unavailable elsewhere locally

Supportive, non-pressurised environment fostering confidence and independence

International Round Square perspective and global outlook

Common concerns

!Rural location limits easy urban cultural access for some families

!Not yet inspected by Ofsted; limited recent external validation

!Smaller sixth form may offer fewer course breadth options

!Limited information on academic outcomes and university destinations publicly available