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Dauntsey'sHigh Street, West Lavington, Devizes, SN10 4HE, Wiltshire01380 814500 |
admissions@dauntseys.orgwww.dauntseys.org |
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| School type |
Co-educational Day & Boarding Senior & Sixth Form |
| Founded | 1542 |
| Head Master | Mr John Davies |
| Co-ed Age Range | 11-18 years (boarding from 11) |
| Number of pupils | 830 |
| Day fees per annum | £28,395 per annum |
| Boarding fees per annum | £46,950 per annum |
| International Boarding | £54,225 per annum |
| Associations | BSA, HMC, ISC |
A Dauntsey's Education
At Dauntsey's, education is about far more than lessons and exams – it's about developing the confidence, curiosity and character to thrive in life. Every child is known, challenged and inspired, discovering their own path through a broad range of opportunities.
Set in 150 acres of beautiful Wiltshire countryside, Dauntsey's is home to around 830 pupils who find challenge and inspiration both inside and outside the classroom. Pupils are encouraged to be ambitious in their goals, brave in their choices, and compassionate in their relationships. We want them to leave not only well-educated, but with a sense of purpose and the courage to make a difference.
Pastoral Care
Pastoral care sits at the heart of Dauntsey's and shapes every aspect of school life. Every pupil, day and boarding, belongs to a House – a family-style environment where they are known, valued and supported. Each child has a dedicated tutor who stays with them throughout their time in the Lower School, and again through the Upper School, ensuring consistent care and understanding as they grow.
Support extends well beyond staff. Older pupils mentor younger ones, and our Listening Ear programme provides a student-led space for pupils to talk openly and be heard. This peer-to-peer network builds empathy, trust and connection across the community.
Further layers of support include a full-time Chaplain and professional counsellors, both available whenever needed. Together, these strands create a strong and compassionate safety net, ensuring every pupil feels secure, understood and able to thrive.
Academic Life
Academic ambition is ever-present at Dauntsey's. Our teachers are specialists who inspire curiosity, stretch thinking and help every pupil build intellectual confidence.
In Years 10 and 11, pupils follow a broad and flexible GCSE curriculum. Core subjects – English, Mathematics and Science – are compulsory, but each pupil usually studies nine GCSEs, freely choosing from a wide range of disciplines.
In the Sixth Form, a diverse choice of A Levels and CTEC options allows pupils to tailor their studies to their interests and ambitions. Most take three subjects, often with an Extended Project Qualification. Small class sizes ensure regular interaction and personal support.
Recent results speak to both breadth and excellence:
- 46% of all A Level grades were A*–A, and 75% were A*–B
- 62% of GCSE grades were 9–7, with eight pupils achieving nine or more Grade 9s
- 98% of leavers secured places at their university of choice, including Durham, Edinburgh, Exeter and Manchester
Beyond the Books
Adventure is part of Dauntsey's DNA. From First Form through to Sixth Form, programmes are in place allowing all pupils to get involved – be that the Third Form Moonrakers Programme running every Friday afternoon, or the 24 hours on board Jolie Brise in Fourth Form.
Sport for all, performing arts, music and an extensive co-curricular programme ensure every pupil can find their niche and try something new. Through community service and partnerships, they learn to lead, to listen and to give back – developing compassion, courage and a lifelong sense of purpose.