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Whole School Open Morning 20 September 2025

An independent, co-educational day and boarding school located in the beautiful Dorset countryside.

Prep

Ages 8 - 13

Senior

Ages 13 - 16

Sixth

Ages 16 - 18

We are confident in the steps we take to ensure every pupil reaches their fullest potential.

Scholarships

Content:

Scholarships are offered in Year 9 (and Year 12) and are awarded at the discretion of the Head.

Children entering Year 9 may apply for a Scholarship in the areas of:

Academic

Music

Art

Drama

Sport

Design Technology

All Rounder

Scholarship exams are taken in November and all candidates will need to be registered with the school to apply. If you would like your child to sit a scholarship exam, please fill in the Scholarship Application Form and the Registration Form.

You can also view the latest Scholarship Booklet.

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Vision & Values

About
Clayesmore

125 Glorious Years

A Rich History and a Bright Future

Lex Devine, our Founder

Clayesmore was founded in 1896, by Lex Devine. A man ahead of his time in terms of his vision for education. His guiding principle was to offer ‘an all-round education’; he understood the importance of a traditional academic education but he also recognised that, without a strong foundation of values and attitudes, it was nothing. That ethos remains at the heart of a Clayesmore education today.

An inspiring place to live and learn

Clayesmore settled in Iwerne Minster in the summer term of 1933, having previously had homes in Pangbourne, Berkshire and Winchester, Hampshire. In 1974, it was joined by Clayesmore Preparatory School, originally Charlton Marshall School, which had been founded in 1929 by R.A.L. Everett. In the following year the school became co-educational.

Adventurous Spirit

In Clayesmore's 125 year history, the spirit of adventure and pursuit of happiness in every aspect of life, including academics has always been clear. We encourage every pupil to 'have a go' with the aim that they uncover their passion and fulfil their ambitions.

Leadership and Service

Service and leadership are key principles of a Clayesmore education, and always have been. The Sixth Form programme, ACE (action, community, environment) provides opportunities for all pupils to spend time in the local community supporting the elderly, young children or the environment with an aim to dvelop a culture of 'giving back' and a sense of responsibility for the wider world.

Embracing the Outdoors

We are blessed to be located in the most glorious Dorset countryside, surrounded by stunning coastline. A Clayesmore education has always embraced the outdoors and the benefits that can bring. Every year, Pupils take part in the Duke of Edinburgh Award programme as well as enjoying country sports, watersports, equestrian activities, climbing, walking and much more.

The Future of LEX

In our 125th year, we proudly introduce LEX, a bold and ambitious weekend programme of trips, experiences and events. LEX is the embodiment of our founder's original principle, enabling pupils to seize fresh opportunities, develop new skills and provide them with transformative experiences and skills to draw upon forever.

Academic Programme

Challenge

Variety
and support

Pastoral Care

Secure

Safe
And Happy

'A superb school with a big heart' Current Parent

News and Views

Keep up-to-date with the latest news and events at Clayesmore School, where we celebrate the achievements and milestones of our vibrant school community.

6 May

Clayesmore School is delighted to announce that it is joining the Inspired Learning Group family of schools

Iwerne Minster, Dorset – Clayesmore has always been known for its exceptional pastoral...

Read Article

Clayesmore School is delighted to announce that it is joining the Inspired Learning Group family of schools

5 Sep

Tatler School Guide 2025

We are delighted to be featured in this year's Tatler School Guide. Read the full article...

Read Article

2 Mar

There is another way’: how schools are tackling rugby’s head injury crisis

Concern is mounting over dwindling playing numbers caused by safety fears as schools...

Read Article

There is another way’: how schools are tackling rugby’s head injury crisis

12 Jun

Jo Thomson shines the spotlight on the collateral damage of Labour's VAT policy on school fees

Dear Mr Starmer, I am the Head of Clayesmore School in Dorset and I know we...

Read Article

Jo Thomson shines the spotlight on the collateral damage of Labour's VAT policy on school fees

18 Aug

Classic & Supercar Sunday Programme 2024

Read Article

Register For Our Open Morning

Come and visit Clayesmore to experience first hand our warm, friendly culture and find out more about our excellent educational and pastoral ethos.

Clayesmore School, Iwerne Minster, Blandford, Dorset. DT11 8LL.

Clayesmore School (HMC, IAPS, ISBA) is a registered company in England and Wales registered at Iwerne Minster, Blandford, Dorset, DT11 8LL.

Education Websites by AztecMedia

Whole School Open Morning 20 September 2025

An independent, co-educational day and boarding school located in the beautiful Dorset countryside.

Prep

Senior

Sixth

We are confident in the steps we take to ensure every pupil reaches their fullest potential.

Scholarships

Children entering Year 9 may apply for a Scholarship in the areas of:

A Rich History and a Bright Future

Lex Devine, our Founder

An inspiring place to live and learn

Adventurous Spirit

Leadership and Service

Embracing the Outdoors

The Future of LEX

Academic Programme

Pastoral Care

'A superb school with a big heart' Current Parent

News and Views

Clayesmore School is delighted to announce that it is joining the Inspired Learning Group family of schools

Tatler School Guide 2025

There is another way’: how schools are tackling rugby’s head injury crisis

Jo Thomson shines the spotlight on the collateral damage of Labour's VAT policy on school fees

Classic & Supercar Sunday Programme 2024

Register For Our Open Morning

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