Sunninghill Preparatory School
Dorchester, Dorset, South West · DT1 1EB
Sunninghill Preparatory School is a small independent prep in Dorchester, taking mixed pupils from the earliest years at age three through to 13. With around 171 children on roll, it offers an intimate setting where pupils are likely to be well known to staff. The Independent Schools Inspectorate awarded the school its top rating of 'excellent', with the same judgement extended to personal development. The school holds no religious character, and all compliance standards were met at inspection.
171
Pupils
excellent
ISI
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Open in Google Maps ↗Overview & data
- Gender
- Mixed
- Type
- independent (fee-paying) school
- Age range
- 3-13
- Pupils
- 171
- Location
- Dorchester, Dorset, South West
- Website
- https://sunninghillprep.co.uk/
- Telephone
- 01305 262306
Headteacher
Head Mr David Newberry
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Teaching & academics
The ISI's 'excellent' rating points to strong teaching and learning across the prep years. As a school running from age three to 13, it prepares children for the transition to senior school. Its small size allows for close attention to each pupil's progress.
Ethos & heritage
- Religious character
- None
- Boarding
- No
Inspection reports
- ISI rating
- excellent
- ISI personal development
- excellent
- Last inspected
- 24 February 2026
The last word
A small, non-selective prep in the heart of Dorchester with top marks from inspectors for both academics and personal development. A sound choice for families wanting a close-knit start to their child's education.
The Passmate verdict
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Sunninghill Preparatory School 11+: frequently asked questions
Where is Sunninghill Preparatory School located?
Sunninghill Preparatory School is located at South Court, South Walks Road, Dorchester, Dorchester, DT1 1EB.
What type of school is Sunninghill Preparatory School?
Sunninghill Preparatory School is an independent (fee-paying) school in South West.
How many pupils attend Sunninghill Preparatory School?
Sunninghill Preparatory School has approximately 171 pupils on roll.
What is Sunninghill Preparatory School's inspection rating?
Sunninghill Preparatory School is inspected by the ISI and was judged "excellent" at its inspection on 24 February 2026.
Compiled from public data. Last checked June 2026.