Ballard School

Introduction

Ballard is a thriving day school from Nursery to GCSE, set in 34 acres on the Dorset/Hampshire border. “A warm, friendly school in a glorious setting, where pupils enjoy their learning, throw themselves into a plethora of activities and have fun.” (Good Schools Guide)

We are delighted to have been named Co-educational School of the Year at this year’s Independent School of the Year Awards, having reached the finals for Sport (2023) and Performing Arts (2022). We have also reached the finals of MTI’s Musical Theatre Provision and were finalists in this year’s ISA’s Award for Design.

“Ballard is delighted to be recognised alongside such prestigious schools. This award reflects the strength of our wonderful community - dedicated staff who go the extra mile, parents who wholeheartedly embrace our ethos, and, of course, our positively thriving and happy children.” Mr Andrew McCleave, Headmaster.

So, what makes an award-winning education? At Ballard, we believe abilities and intelligence are not fixed – all can flourish and excel when given the tools and environment to develop self-knowledge and resilience. We offer a vast array of opportunities, including over 155 co-curricular activities but what sets us apart is how we empower and inspire our pupils to seize them.

Co-education is at the heart of Ballard’s inclusive philosophy. All pupils are equal, learning with and from each other, through collaboration and lively competition. In an atmosphere of inclusivity and kindness, every child is stretched in their talents and encouraged to tackle what doesn’t come easily. Boy, girl, expert, novice - no subject nor interest is beyond reach.

PSHE (Y1-11), encourages mutual understanding, with pupils emboldened to take charge of their lives and make positive choices, supported by strong proactive pastoral care. For example, our ‘Ballard on Board’ programme helps pupils to understand and navigate the complexities of friendship and find their own solutions. Pupil voice is listened to, inspiring many initiatives including Ballard’s eco agenda

The success of our approach is reflected in Ballard’s GCSE results: with a 95% pass rate (9-4) and an average 0.79 added value for each pupil, across all subjects! Inspirational teachers give up weekends and holidays to provide additional revision sessions.

Staff believe in Ballard’s mission - to ensure that no child gets left behind, encouraging pupils to think of others, contribute positively and make the world better. Their values - The Ballard ‘Be’s – are instilled from the start with new pupils quickly feeling that they belong. When they leave at Year 11, Ballard pupils do so with a powerful sense of self, equipped to build a bright future in our fast-changing world.

Meet the Head

“When I first arrived at Ballard, I was immediately struck by its busy, purposeful atmosphere and the warm welcome I received. The girls and boys I met shook me by the hand, looked me in the eye and told me everything I needed to know about the School.

At Ballard we encourage our pupils to express themselves confidently, to develop their leadership skills and to be ambitious, all within a nurturing and supportive environment. When I talk to the young people here, they describe a Ballard pupil as one who will “enjoy the challenge” and “set the bar high”. Ballard is proud to educate pupils with a range of academic abilities, and we do so within a culture of aspiration for all; teachers here will stretch, challenge and support in equal measure. I have always been a great believer that happy, confident, respectful and busy children will do well academically so it is no wonder that our GCSE results continue to be at the forefront of comparable local schools and well in excess of the national average.

More importantly, this all happens within an ethos of respect, kindness and responsibility. The key to Ballard’s success lies in its values and culture, and in the positivity of its community. Whether it’s the staff who support and educate, the pupils who strive and delight, or the parents who so vitally connect home and school life, we all play a crucial role in shaping the School. Ballard’s ambition to instil in their pupils a strong moral compass, a respect for others, and an imperative to make a worthwhile contribution to the community all help foster a happy, supportive and successful School.

We were hugely proud of our “excellent & outstanding” ISI and OFSTED inspection report. The School was awarded the highest grade possible in every category; a real testament to the hard work and passion of all our staff.”

Andrew McCleave

ISI

“Pupils are reflective and have high levels of self-esteem and empathy. They are highly successful in displaying these characteristics through academic study as well as the wealth of sporting, performing arts and extra-curricular opportunities in which they participate.” ISI