FAQs

Is Canford a full boarding school?

Canford is run as a seven day a week boarding school and around 70% of the school roll are boarders.  There is no weekly boarding.    A full programme of evening and weekend activities is on offer.  There is a flexible exeat system which means that, on average, over 60% stay in at weekends but those who wish can still spend up to half the Saturday nights at home.

Where do boarders come from?

Most live within 90 minutes’ driving time, particularly from Hampshire, Sussex, Surrey, Wiltshire and Dorset.   8.5% of boarders live abroad, most of whom are British.  There is a bus service to London to accommodate boarders living in or close to the capital.

What happens if I am ill?

There is a Matron in each house and a school Health Centre which is situated centrally and is staffed full-time by qualified nurses.  Doctors’ surgeries are held every weekday and physiotherapy and confidential counselling services are available to the pupils on site.  Both Poole and Bournemouth hospitals are close by and provide a full range of care for more serious medical issues.

Is there regular contact with home?

The welfare of our pupils is of paramount importance and Canford strives to foster the strongest of links with parents.  House staff are easily contactable via telephone or email and a face-to-face meeting can always be arranged to discuss your son or daughter should the need arise.  

Will I eat in my house?

No, all meals are taken centrally in the Great Hall which allows pupils to mix with those from other houses at key points in the day.   There are also tea and toast making facilities available in the houses and, for senior pupils there is a fully equipped kitchen in the Sixth Form Centre.   A range of snacks can be bought from the Tuck Shop, known as the ‘Grubber’.