Hanford Prep School

Focus

An inspiring and adventurous education 

Day fees 2025/26

$22,500-$32,500

Boarding fees 2025/26

$32,500-$42,400

Term dates

• Term 1: 3 September to 12 December 2025
• Term 2: 6 January to 27 March 2026
• Term 3: 22 April to 2 July 2026
  

Ages

7-13

Pupil count

90

Spear's Review

Hanford Prep encourages pupils to be free and creative, resilient and confident, with plenty of time to play, especially in their early years. Set within acres of wooded Dorset countryside, the all-girls day and boarding school gives girls the opportunity to climb trees, assist in the maintenance of the walled kitchen garden, play tennis and partake in the archery and debate clubs. The ponies of Hanford – all girls are given the opportunity to ride – are part of the school’s deliberate decision to celebrate childhood. 

At the same time, traditional academic subjects prepare girls for life at senior school, and Hanford’s small classes and proven teaching methods often result in students winning academic, art, all-rounder and music scholarships at top senior schools across the UK. 

Head teacher

Sophie Blewitt joined Hanford Prep as interim head in February 2026, having previously been director of studies at Sherborne Girls, an independent day and boarding senior school in Dorset. Blewitt holds a PGCE as well as a master’s degree in education from the University of Oxford.

Senior school destinations

Girls move on to schools such as Downe House, St Edward's in Oxford, Marlborough College, St Mary's Ascot, Sherborne Girls, Westonbirt School and Wycombe Abbey, among others, to continue their adventures. 

Admissions

Hanford is a non-selective school, and applicants are encouraged to visit – either during an open morning or for a tailored visit. Taster days are also available for girls to engage with school life and the boarding experience. Ahead of an offer of a place, Hanford will contact a girl’s current school to request a copy of their latest report and a reference.

Accessibility

Heathrow Airport: 2 hours 30 minutes

Location

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