Headmaster's Welcome

Welcome to Dumpton

Choosing the right school is one of the most significant decisions a family can make. As we recognise only too well at Dumpton, schools have the ability to shape not only a child’s education, but also grow their character and confidence during these incredibly precious early years of their lives. 

So why might Dumpton be the right choice for your child?  

For many, it begins with our setting and unrivalled facilities. Nestled in 26 acres of beautiful Dorset countryside, our campus is a magical place for a child to learn and grow. Our sustained period of growth and success in recent years has led to considerable investment, from bright, modern classrooms and specialist teaching spaces to outstanding facilities for sport, the performing arts, and outdoor learning. Dumpton’s site offers an environment full of boundless opportunities for our pupils - and plenty of joy too. 

For others, it’s the unique balance we strike between academic excellence and character education. Our outstanding staff (I have never worked with a better team!) strive for the very best outcomes for all, and we’re very proud that children of all abilities can flourish academically here. But at Dumpton we believe that character matters. We never let our pupils forget that who they become is even more important the grades they achieve. We are incredibly proud that our innovative approach to character education was recognised by ISI with the rare accolade of a ‘Significant Strength’ - we were, we believe, the first Prep School in the entire South West to achieve this prestigious award.  

For many parents it is our track record of high achievement for all, inspired by our school motto - ‘you can because you think you can’. From our ability to secure places at the finest Senior Schools in the country, with around half of children securing a scholarship each year in recent years, to regular team and individual sporting success on the national stage, to the incredible standard of our array of West End style musicals each year – children at Dumpton grow up as part of a community that is used to aspiration and success.  

For most families, however, the true strength of Dumpton lies in something harder to define – the feel of the school. Culture and ethos sits at the heart of all that we do, and we believe nothing is more important than what your child sees, hears, and feels each day. Guided by two core values - Be Kind and Aim High - we want every child to feel safe, supported, and surrounded by kindness and positive relationships. Yet this nurturing culture is balanced with a strong sense of ambition – a ‘can do’ atmosphere where everyone tries everything, and where determination and resilience are celebrated alongside kindness and empathy. Dumpton will gently challenge your children to step out of their comfort zones to be the best that they can be.   

But perhaps the truest reflection of Dumpton is our pupils themselves. Whether it’s the fistful of scholarships and accolades they achieve each year, the impeccable manners and quiet confidence with which they carry themselves, or the empathy and leadership shown by our older pupils towards the youngest in the school – they make us incredibly proud, every single day.  

So, a very warm welcome to our website. I hope it offers you a glimpse into life at Dumpton. But more than that, I hope it encourages you to come and see us in person. I’d be delighted to welcome you and your family to the school. 

Best wishes

Christian Saenger
Headmaster

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