Sunninghill Prep School has a unique, caring and respectful atmosphere, apparent to all who come here. Very much a family school, it is also the largest Independent Preparatory School in the picturesque county town of Dorchester. Our pupils are stretched and enriched by a curriculum that is broad, challenging and varied from our recognised Foundation Stage Unit  onwards. Each child's individual learning style is catered for through the careful planning undertaken by all our staff.  We are particularly proud of the area of the country in which we are situated and extend every child through our Sunninghill Outdoor Education Programme (SOEP). Our pupils leave us extremely well prepared at 13, when they transfer to the Senior School of their choice.   

We hope that our website will provide you with a good flavour of what Sunninghill can offer your child. If you are intrigued to know more, why not begin exploring this site. An independent view of what we offer can be found in our latest inspection report. Of course, the very best way to find out more is to come and see us.  Please give us a ring to arrange a visit when staff and pupils will be delighted to show you around.

Moira Laffey

Our Mission is to stimulate a new generation of enquiring global citizens.

ETHOS

Located in the county town of Dorchester, Dorset, Sunninghill is a progressive and Independent Preparatory School with a unique people, atmosphere and curriculum.

Sunninghill strives to nurture and stimulate a new generation of confident and outward-looking global citizens in a mutually respectful environment with a strong pastoral ethos. It offers a safe, diverse and creative environment. Here, moral values and manners are strongly upheld.

The school’s innovative and broad curriculum seeks to meet the needs of those with differing learning styles and strengths in multiple intelligences.  Personalised learning methodologies contribute to high levels of personal achievement and high academic standards in a non-selective setting.

Children, parents and staff take a pride in this excellent family school and, as all are encouraged to suggest ways to further improve the quality of the school, Sunninghill will always be evolving to the benefit of its children.

AIMS

To put children’s pastoral and educational welfare first

To expect high standards in academia, pastoral care, behaviour, staffing, conditions of service, inspection and accreditation

To offer diversity and breadth

To support colleagues through seeking and offering professional advice, advocacy, training, meeting and sharing

To promote Independent Education with parents, the general public, the media, government, the national education services, and within ISCis

Clubs 

 We offer a variety of different clubs including Basket Ball, Sailing, Art, Orchestra and Choir for years 3 to 8.  There are also clubs available for the Pre-Prep to enjoy including Lacrosse and Dance. 

Uniform

Our uniform aims to be comfortable but smart and as you can see from the photograph the children enjoy wearing it.