Bournemouth School
Bournemouth, Dorset · BH8 9PY
Bournemouth School is a selective boys' grammar school serving over 1,200 day pupils across Dorset. As a stand-alone academy with deep local roots, it balances traditional values—hard work, discipline, smart appearance and respect—with contemporary approaches to teaching and pastoral care. The school enjoys strong community support and positions itself as focused on raising attainment while broadening opportunities in sport, arts and creative pursuits.
- →Selective entry ensuring academically able cohort
- →Strong local reputation and excellent pastoral care within house system
- →Breadth of co-curricular provision including competitive sport and music
- →Academy status allowing independent curriculum flexibility
Who thrives here
Able boys with a work ethic who value tradition and structure, and who thrive in a competitive but supportive environment. Pupils who benefit from clear expectations around behaviour, uniform and discipline, and who want strong co-curricular breadth.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
East Way
Bournemouth, Dorset
BH8 9PY
Nearest stations
Frequently asked questions
How much does Bournemouth School cost?
Bournemouth School is a state grammar school, so there are no tuition fees — places are free and allocated by the 11-plus exam and the school’s admissions criteria.
How do you get into Bournemouth School?
Bournemouth School admits pupils at 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by 11+ Selective Examination. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
What are Bournemouth School's exam results?
At Bournemouth School, 28.3% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 66.8% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is Bournemouth School a boarding school?
Bournemouth School is a day school in Bournemouth and does not offer boarding.
What is Bournemouth School's latest inspection rating?
Ofsted rated Bournemouth School “Outstanding” (2024).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Strong local reputation and community support
✓Clear values and discipline create structured environment
✓Breadth of co-curricular opportunities alongside academic rigour
✓Accessible leadership and improvement-focused culture
Common concerns
!Not yet Ofsted inspected, so no external validation of quality available
!Limited public data on exam results or university destinations
!Day-only provision may limit access for families in distant parts of Dorset