Book a Visit
At a Glance
Acres of Dorset Countryside
Pupils aged 0 to 18
Average Sixth Form class size
Average GCSE class size
Concerts, Plays, Lectures and Workshops
Clubs and Activities
A future as unique as your child's ambitions
Set in 46 acres of Dorset parkland, just outside of Sherborne, Leweston is a co-educational day and boarding school, welcoming students from 4 - 18.
At Leweston potential is not just recognised, but celebrated and developed every step of the way.
We believe in an individual approach that empowers students to surpass their own expectations and become the best version of themselves, whatever that might be.
It's a journey we embark on together, crafting a path that is unique. It means that students don't just learn, they flourish.
Why settle for ordinary when you can achieve extraordinary?
Watch our whole school video
We believe that the best way to experience Leweston is to have an individual tour, tailor-made to your requirements.
Our Visit Weeks are available to book now. These offer a personalised guided tour of the school during which you can find out more about our academic, creative and sporting opportunities, view our extensive facilities and talk to our Admissions team about entrance assessment, scholarships, transport, etc.
Your visit will also include a meeting with the Headmaster, Mr John Paget-Tomlinson or Head of Prep, Mr Richard Thompson. If you are interested in boarding there will also be the opportunity to tour the Boarding Houses and meet Mrs Simkins-Smith, Director of Boarding, as well as any other key members of staff you request.
Please allow at least an hour and a half for your visit and arrive 5 minutes prior to your tour time to allow for registration. Your tour will be concluded with refreshments and a chat with the Admissions Team.
If you cannot join our visit weeks then individual meetings can be arranged subject to the Headmaster's availability. For those who live further away, or abroad, one-to-one virtual meetings can be arranged.
Visits are offered during specific weeks and times depending on the area of the school you would like to visit. Please complete the relevant form indicating your preferred date and time and our Registrar will be in touch to make arrangements.
We look forward to seeing you soon.
Prep Visit Weeks:
- 3 - 7 March 2025
- 12 - 16 May 2025
- 16 - 20 June 2025
Senior and Sixth Form Visit Weeks:
- 10 - 14 March 2025
- 28 April - 2 May 2025
Visit the Prep School
Visit the Senior School and Sixth Form
FAQs
Do you assess prospective pupils?
Pupils joining the Prep are not formally assessed and there are no entrance tests however pupils are informally monitored by staff during their taster day and any concerns will be discussed with parents at the end of the day.
Leweston welcomes pupils from a wide range of independent and maintained schools. Our assessments are designed to evaluate core skills in Maths and English and we consider that pupils may have studied different curriculums or be at different stages when assessment takes place.
Whilst Leweston is a non-selective school assessment helps us get to know the pupils before they join us and understand their current level in key areas.
If you have any questions about assessment or need to make us aware of any individual needs your child has please contact the admissions team. Extra time or other special arrangements can be made as long as we have advance warning of the requirement.
Once the ISEB tests are complete, pupils are invited to our Activity Day which takes place on a Saturday morning in early January. The morning consists of a range of team building and group activities and ends with lunch. Pupils who apply after this event may be invited to a personal Assessment Day when they join one of the current classes and experience a normal timetable of lessons as well as sit the assessment papers. This option will be offered subject to availability.
For more information about Joining the Senior School visit our admissions page.
How far in advance do we need to register?
We recommend visiting the school at least two years ahead of entry and registering after you have had the opportunity to have a good look round and meet staff and pupils. Registration reserves a place for your child in their chosen year group and year of entry, provided that they satisfy the relevant entry requirements and complete the admissions process. It does not guarantee an offer of a place but the date of registration can be factor when a waiting list is in operation.
Places can be confirmed more than a year in advance, particularly in popular year groups such as Years 3, 5, 6, 7 and 9 but there may be space available after that time.
Discover Life at Leweston...
Leweston Chedington Riding Academy
Our equestrian centre boasts 20 stables, one flood-lit arena, and a dedicated classroom. The school offers a range of livery packages to pupils as well riding lessons suitable for all ages and abilities.
Enrichment and Activities
Leweston offers a diverse array of activities, clubs, and societies. Additionally, various enrichment activities, trips, and visits are arranged each term for our day and boarding students.
Pentathlon
Leweston makes a significant contribution to the Pentathlon GB Pathway and is an official Pentathlon GB Training and Talent Hub, developing athletes of all abilities in the five disciplines of Modern Pentathlon either together or in combination.
Pastoral Care
A great deal of emphasis is placed on pastoral care at Leweston. We are entirely committed to providing an environment that inspires warmth, confidence, creativity and personal development in all our pupils, whether they attend Leweston as a day pupil or boarder. The school provides a wide range of support, involving teachers, pastoral professional and peers.