Canford School

Canford School is one of the UKs top independent coeducational senior boarding schools for pupils aged 13 to 18. Currently Canford boasts the highest roll in its history at 660 pupils, with a 65/35 split between boarding and day and an almost even allocation of boys and girls.

Academically, students excel and Canford is leading the way both in the region and on a national scale whilst offering the breadth of opportunity to enable every individual to make the most of his or her talents and develop the skills and qualities to move on beyond school to rich and fulfilling lives. Canford is built on strong Christian foundations but welcomes students and staff from all faiths or none.

Over the last 5 years, the School has invested almost £20M in new infrastructure, including a new Library and 2 boarding houses.  A new 6th Form College will also come online in September 2026 providing a better transition to life beyond the gates and allow the School roll to increase slightly.

The Governors now seek to appoint a highly motivated, inspirational and enthusiastic leader who has the strategic skill set to lead Canford through the next chapter in its history. The new Head will inherit a thriving school, immersed in the local community and the rich diversity that it offers.

The successful candidate will embrace working collaboratively with the Governors and SLT to navigate through the political, economic and social challenges which lie ahead for the independent school sector in order to ensure the school’s long-term potential is fulfilled. They will also be an outstanding educational leader with proven academic credibility and strong communication skills to give confidence to governors and inspire staff to deliver the rounded educational framework demanded by the students in our community.

Saxton Bampfylde Ltd is acting as an employment agency advisor to Canford School on this appointment. For further information about the role, including details about how to apply, please visit www.saxbam.com/appointments using reference LANFB. Alternatively telephone +44 (0)20 7227 0880 (during office hours). Applications should be received by noon on Thursday 2nd May.