Parent and Pupil Testimonials

“Even with disruptions due to lock-downs, our son has thrived at the school and his achievements have been tremendous.  The opportunities to take part in things, further his learning and broaden his thinking and outlook have been exceptional.”

 “Both our children are happier at Canford than we could have ever imagined!  Our eldest is thriving academically and has achieved beyond hers and our expectations. Our younger daughter has grown in confidence especially on the sports pitches where she is really starting to stand out.”

 “More than satisfied with all areas of the school including admissions, pastoral care in boarding, opportunities to engage with local community and academic provision but most importantly leadership and values communicated from the Headmaster.  He walks the walk to an impressive degree.”

 “Our daughter is thriving & she has met some wonderful friends. She feels welcome and she is happy to try new things. She is working hard, participating in as much as she can and in our opinion, she is happy - what more could a parent ask for?”

 “All three children have emerged as rounded, grounded, thoughtful and values-driven young adults, with three groups of friends who are equally good company.”

 “Really takes note of the individual child and helps explore all avenues to develop their own talents.”

 “Canford seems more inclusive than other schools by encouraging students to play instruments and sports. Some schools only include their best players whereas Canford feels more encouraging for students to try things out.”

Imy 

“I only looked at Canford, and once I had visited, I knew that I didn’t want to go anywhere else so I had to make it happen.” Imy found Canford a very diverse school where everyone was kind, considerate and accepting. She has definitely made friends for life. “In my previous school I was labelled as a distracting influence. I was simply bored. At Canford small class sizes make such a difference and you get so much more attention. They have been able to cater for my needs which has made me work harder and perform so much better. There are so many opportunities at Canford. I have never ever had an experience like this before. I used to hate school and now I’m really sad to leave.” Imy has secured a rowing scholarship and will study Philosophy at Newcastle.

Toby 

“During my time at Canford my confidence has grown. I have met so many different people from varying backgrounds and cultures who really put ‘their all’ into everything they do and I have learnt a lot from that. I know this experience puts me in great shape for the future.”

Merlin

“At Canford, you are not pushed but encouraged to explore. You feel fully supported to look at all the opportunities on offer. I also recognise that I am part of a very valuable lifelong network and community which will continue to support me in different ways.”
Merlin achieved four top A level grades (A*A*AA) and has continued to look for unique opportunities by studying a BEng (Degree Apprenticeship) at the Dyson Institute of Engineering and Technology.

Mark

“Canford has helped me to become a well rounded individual with high values and morals. It has given me a head start in life and access to things I didn’t know existed. I have connections and have been helped with guidance for university and employment. My House became my part-time home. I made the best friends and was guided so generously by my Housemaster.”

Bursary pupilsThe following quotes provide a taste of the difference our bursary programme makes with the support of your generous donations.

James

"My resilience has developed beyond recognition. Canford provides you with so many opportunities, this in turn gives you confidence and the ability to explore new things. It creates a virtuous circle for which I am extremely grateful. My personal growth over the past two years has been astronomical!"

Olivia

"The biggest change for me was the attitude at Canford. Everyone is so encouraging. The impossible is possible! If you want to do something the support is there to help you to achieve it. Nothing is too much trouble. Canford is all about the people. Everyone is so open and welcoming. The opportunities that I have been afforded have been amazing, thank you."

Kit

"Canford has provided me with opportunities to develop all of my skills and different facets of my life. I feel ready now for real world experiences and I have the confidence to learn and feel I could achieve anything!"