“Simply the best school every day.” Parent (Reception)
A multi-award winning school, set in a glorious 34 acre site on the Hampshire Dorset border, there are many reasons to chose a Ballard education for your child. At Ballard, we don’t just educate – we elevate. We combine academic excellence with a nurturing, opportunity-rich environment where every child is known, valued, and inspired. Choosing a school is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. At Ballard, we offer more than an education, we offer opportunities to belong, thrive and achieve.
“This school places a strong emphasis on the whole child, ensuring the balance between academic achievement and co-curricular interests. This well-rounded education ensures pupils are ready for life beyond the classroom.” Year 8 & 9 Parent
“Ballard is a school that truly understands children – their potential, their passions, and their need to belong.” Year 7 & 9 Parent
Inclusive by Design
Ballard is a co-educational school for pupils aged 2 to 16 years old. We admit new pupils not based on exam performance but on a ‘best-fit’ approach. We look for pupils who demonstrate enthusiasm, positivity, kindness and a willingness to embrace our values and make the most of the opportunities afforded them.
“There’s so many things I love about Ballard, especially their family ethos. There’s no hierarchy; friendships are made across year-groups; everyone’s included. Opportunities to mentor younger pupils create bonds, trust and support for the mentee.
I love Ballard’s inclusivity; nobody is left out. You don’t have to be the best – as long as you have a passion or interest, you are welcome. Activities aren’t gender-oriented either; so at Ballard, girls can play rugby and boys can play netball. Our amazing productions are ‘west-end worthy’ because we all get involved. Young and old, boys and girls; it takes all sorts to achieve great things: sport for all, music for all, learning for all.” Amy, Former Head Girl
Proudly Independent
With many schools facing closure the number of mergers and acquisitions in the ‘Independent’ sector is growing and Ballard is proud to remain truly independent and financially robust. Run by a voluntary board of local governors, the school is a registered charity with no external ownership or profit motive. All surplus is reinvested directly back into the school for the benefit of pupils, not to a shareholder or group of schools. This model gives Ballard the freedom to make strategic decisions swiftly and entirely in the interests of its pupils and community.
“The experiences I’ve gained at this school have truly shaped who I am as a person.” Year 11 Pupil
Bespoke Education
We believe every child has unique strengths and we build on them. Whether it is the pupil who achieves 11 Grade 9s and an A in Additional Maths, or the many who exceed their predicted GCSE grades by three grades or more, Ballard pupils are supported and stretched to thrive.
Our tailored approach goes beyond the classroom. GCSE option blocks, productions, and sports fixtures are designed around each cohort, ensuring every child has the chance to shine.
“All students have the chance to showcase their talents and try new things. Ballard truly encourages us to explore our interests and develop new skills. I’m so proud to be a part of this fantastic family!” Year 7 Pupil
“Both my children are thriving here. It’s a place where young minds are respected, encouraged and nurtured.” Year 8 Parent
Co-curricular Excellence
With over 175 weekly activities, Ballard offers one of the richest co-curricular programmes in the region. In addition, we offer a fantastic range of trips from Year 1 to Year 11 with Year 5 experiencing their first residential trip, pupils explore, discover, and grow in confidence and curiosity.
“I’m so grateful to be part of a school that offers such a rich and varied experience.” Year 9 Pupil
Pastoral Care
We balance academic rigour with proactive, compassionate care. Our pastoral team works hand-in-hand with families to ensure every child feels safe, supported, and empowered to be their best self.
“There are so many opportunities to try new things at Ballard. The teachers go the extra mile to help shape you into the best version of yourself.” Year 7 Pupil
Lifelong Skills
From the very start of their educational journey, our pupils are taught to think independently, communicate confidently, and collaborate effectively – skills that serve them far beyond the classroom. At Ballard, we nurture not just academic success, but the character and capabilities that prepare our pupils for life.
“My son and daughter left Ballard with such confidence and after 15 or more years, they are still sailing through life finding nothing a problem!” Former Ballard Parent
“Ballard School is truly wonderful in so many ways. Teachers go above and beyond to ensure that each student reaches their full potential.” Year 8 & 9 Parent
Award-winning 
Crowned Co-educational School of the Year in October 2024, Ballard has reached the finals for Sport (2023), Performing Arts (2022), and Student Wellbeing (2021). In 2025, we retained our School Games Mark Gold status, were finalists for the ISA Award for Fine Arts and Design (for the third time in four years), and the MTI Award for Musical Theatre Provision. Our Eco-Ambassadors also achieved Eco School’s Green Flag status with Distinction. Our accolades reflect the breadth and depth of what we offer and the joy with which our pupils seize it.
Exceptional GCSE Results
Ballard continues to buck the national trend with half of all exams passed at the highest grades (9-7), more than double the national average and 14.3% at Grade 9, almost three times the national average. Almost 42% of pupils gained a Grade 9 in one or more of their exams. On average, each pupil achieved 0.9 of a grade higher than expected (based on their baseline assessment) in every subject, with 48% of pupils gaining on average, at least a whole grade higher per subject.
“I am so happy with my results, I couldn’t have done it without the school. The support that my teachers have given me in order to excel in my academics and sports is unmatched. They really make you feel part of the Ballard family.” Year 11 Pupil
Alumni Success Stories
As well as team success, individual pupils have succeeded in the academic world, Sport and the Performing Arts to a high level. Our alumni include four Paris Olympians, three Olympic medallists, world champions, successful authors, actors, an award-winning international opera star and a pop band.
“I recommend Ballard to anyone who is looking for a new school because it’s one of a kind and can bring out interests you never knew you had.” Year 9 Pupil
“It was our choice to send our children to Ballard, but it is our children’s feedback that keeps them there, day after day. They love it.” Year 2 & Year 4 Parent
