Ryde School with Upper Chine

Since 2022, Will Turner, previously head of UWC Adriatic in Italy. Degree in French and Italian from Exeter. Began his career teaching languages and the IB at Sherborne School, followed by five years at Harrow from 2011 as assistant housemaster, head

Not strongly selective, with main entry points at 4+, 11+, 13+ and 16+, although pupils can join anytime (except years 11 and 13 when school only takes new joiners under exceptional circumstances). Testing in English, maths and NVR from year 5, plus

Over 90 per cent progress from prep to senior school, the rest mainly to Winchester and Millfield on scholarships (academic and sports respectively). Around a third depart after GCSEs for mainland colleges, either to spread their wings or to study

In 2025, 37 per cent 9-7 at GCSE; 36 per cent A*/A at A level (66 per cent A*-B). Average IB score 35.

While achieving strong academic results for a non-selective school, it’s the whole package that attracts parents over the more ‘regimented’ London options, ‘producing the kind of child I want my child to grow into’. Slight growth in maximum class

Ten per cent on the SEN register, half of whom receive additional support. There is a strong focus on pre-transition to support increasing numbers of neurodiverse pupils – this includes familiarising them with the next-stage school environment and

‘For children who want to express themselves through arts, their cup is running over,’ said a parent. At A level 12 per cent of pupils choose creative subjects such as art and design, music and theatre studies.

The art block occupies the top floor

Elite sport very much in evidence, with tailored timetables for those who require it. As one of the top sailing schools in the country, this includes a year-round elite sailors’ programme, attracting pupils from the Caribbean, the Far East and

All boarding on-site, with breathtaking views. About three-quarters are international (from across the globe, no dominating countries). Year 7-10 (with a small number of exceptions) in Millfield, a beautiful Victorian villa with a real home- from-

Our tour guides pointed out the ‘heart centre’ in prep ‘where you go when you’re feeling a bit blue’. Meanwhile, in senior school, a health and wellbeing centre houses the pastoral care team, praised by parents as very responsive. Pastoral care is a

A clear mobile phone policy is a really important part of modern schooling. This school has provided us with their policy.

One parent said her fears about acceptance into the existing parent fold were unfounded: ‘This is a school of very nice hard-working parents doing their utmost to give their children this experience.’ Others talk about a ‘brilliant mix of people’

Academic, sailing, drama, art, music and sports scholarships in years 7, 9 and 12 (plus a separately funded sailing scholarship from the Bahamas). Means-tested bursaries also available.

A nurturing school in a picturesque setting that provides an all-round education without sacrificing academic achievement. Allows its pupils to draw breath and enjoy the journey.