Ballard School

Fernhill Lane, New Milton, BH25 5SU, Hampshire

01425 626900

www.ballardschool.co.uk


School type	Co-educational Day Preparatory, Senior & Nursery
Founded	1895
Headmaster	Mr Andrew McCleave
Co-ed Age Range	2-16 years
Number of pupils	472
Day fees per annum	£3,105 - £5,715 per term
Average Class Size	10-18
Associations	IAPS, ISA, ISC

"Quite simply a remarkable school." (Parent)

"A warm, friendly school in a glorious setting, where pupils enjoy their learning, throw themselves into a plethora of activities and have fun. The performing arts are outstanding and children seem genuinely sad to leave for pastures new at 16." (Good Schools Guide)

Ballard is an award-winning, co-educational, independent day school for children from Nursery to GCSE, set in 34 acres on the edge of the New Forest and South Coast.

Ballard excels in so many areas, offering pupils plenty of opportunities to develop skills and gain experience. GCSE results are consistently significantly higher than the national average with double the number of top grades (9-7) this year. A multitude of sporting, arts, life skills and academic enrichment opportunities are available with something for everyone; this is what makes Ballard so successful.

This year Ballard was a finalist for both the Independent School of the Year (Performing Arts) and Excellence and Innovation in Art & Design (ISA); Highly Commended for Outstanding Sport (ISA) and shortlisted for Co-educational Independent School of the Year.

Their Eco-Ambassadors reached Eco Schools Green Flag status; Betsy (Year 9) became highest-placed girl in the Townsend Warner History competition, and the majority of pupils gain Duke of Edinburgh awards. With national champions and alumni that include Olympic medallists, an international opera star and pop band, pupils make the most of opportunities.

New leadership has turned 'excellent & outstanding' (ISI) into exceptional, with pupil numbers at a six-year high. By listening to and working alongside their pupils, providing outstanding opportunities and encouraging them to be the best they can be, Ballard nurtures well-rounded, happy individuals with a healthy outlook on life.

Helping others is part of their DNA. Ballard's Lower Prep (Years 3-5) curriculum includes Life Skills, including charity work and emotional intelligence, alongside household skills. Many pupils are active fundraisers, including three young girls who chose donations to their local hospice, rather than birthday presents, raising over £1,000! Ballard couldn't be more proud - they call it, 'The Ballard Way.'

All pupils use the School's fantastic facilities, which include an Olympic sized Astro-turf, swimming pool, and 200-seater Performing Arts Centre. Pre-Prep pupils receive specialist Sports, Music, Forest School, Beach School, French and Dance tuition. Furthermore, Ballard offers additional peripatetic lessons from a very early age. Children look after chickens, bees and allotments, as well as having plenty of space to roam and explore. By Year 6, lessons are taught by GCSE specialists.

A diverse and inspiring range of activities and trips nurture self-confidence, aspiration and help develop each child's personality. With over 130 weekly activities on offer, from experimental archaeology or saving the planet to Celtic harps or mixed rugby training, every day at Ballard inspires.

Ballard invests in and embraces innovative educational initiatives and programmes. With 75" top of the range digital display boards in every classroom, pupils embrace new technology. Their teachers know the educational foundations that need to be laid and which skills are essential for future academic success. With three libraries, two librarians, weekly 'Drop Everything & Read' sessions, Reading Cloud and Accelerated Reader software, Ballard also understands the benefits of books.

Amy's Story

"There's so many things I love about Ballard, especially their family ethos. There's no hierarchy and friendships are made across year groups. Everyone's included and opportunities to mentor younger pupils create bonds, trust and support for the mentee.

"At Ballard, teachers tailor their lessons to the pupils - it’s not 'one-size-fits-all'. They encourage us to fulfil our potential, but don't place us under unnecessary pressure. These relationships with teachers are vital to our achievements. Staff always make time to listen, often sacrificing their lunch.

"Opportunities at Ballard are countless. The amount of activities is awe-inspiring. There's an extensive range of trips to cater for all interests, both locally and abroad; creating lasting memories. I particularly loved the Tuscany music trip. We sang in a sacred Florentine church and on-top of the Leaning Tower, as well as dancing with locals to Wonderland in the piazza. These trips shape you; enhancing knowledge and encouraging independence.

"I love Ballard's inclusivity; nobody is left out. You don't have to be the best - as long as you have a passion or interest, you are welcome. Activities aren't gender-oriented either, so at Ballard, girls play football and boys play netball. Our amazing productions are 'West-End worthy' because we all get involved. Young and old, boys and girls - it takes all sorts to achieve great things. Sport for all, music for all, learning for all.

"As I read this back, I wonder how we do it all. My years here have been exceptional and I will miss Ballard immensely." Amy, a former Head Girl.

Contact Us

There is a wealth of information at www.ballardschool.co.uk, including a Virtual Tour. For all enquiries, please call 01425 626900 or email: registrar@ballardschool.co.uk.

"Ballard has been a massive influence on him, and he is unrecognisable to the youngster who started there only a short time ago, it is, without doubt, one of the best moves we made for him." (Parent)