Durston House seeks to 'provide an education of quality and variety for pupils aged 3-13, preparing them well for entry to senior school'. Established in 1886, the school became co-educational in September 2023.

The school believes 'that academic success is achieved through excellent teaching and creating an environment where outstanding pastoral care, respect, and values matter'.

Headmaster Giles Entwisle says: "Durston House is a vibrant, stimulating, energetic and forward-looking school. We have a proud and long history with a fine record of achievement, whilst we look forward with confidence and energy. At Durston we are proud of our diverse community, one which values people through mutual respect, compassion, and warmth. At Durston we welcome pupils from all ethnic, cultural, and religious backgrounds; this is a school where pupils are taught from their earliest experiences, that a generosity of spirit, mutual respect and fairness really matter."

"At Durston we are proud of the academic achievements of our pupils along with all they contribute to the broader aspects of the curriculum – the visual and performing arts, music and sport are all fundamental to a Durston education."

"A pupil’s education here is shaped by the development of their character by giving them the confidence and skills to excel, their curiosity to learn and discover more, and their expanding capability to succeed in all they take on. These three concepts, Character, Curiosity and Capability are the cornerstones of a pupil’s success at Durston House and their success in life."

Head, Governance and Inspections

When reviewing details about a particular school, prospective parents should always ensure they have looked at the governance details, reviewed recent inspections and read about the Head's vision for the school. Find out more about how to read an inspection report, the role of the Head (and whether you need to like him or her!), the school's pastoral care provision, looking at what is taught through the curriculum and assessing the extracurricular opportunities on offer.