Canford School, near Wimborne, has officially opened a new Sixth Form college and residential complex designed to give older pupils greater independence and help prepare them for university and life beyond school.
The development brings together dedicated spaces for studying, living and socialising, creating a separate Sixth Form environment while maintaining the school’s existing pastoral support.
The College and Residences were formally opened on Thursday 15th October at a ceremony attended by governors, staff, pupils, former students, local preparatory school heads and representatives of the organisations involved in the project.
Professor Ewan McKendrick, Emeritus Professor of Law at the University of Oxford, unveiled a commemorative plaque. Speaking at the ceremony, he highlighted the importance of encouraging independent thought and creating a community in which young people support one another.
Canford Headmaster Chris Wheeler said: ‘The College reflects a school that is not standing still. We are continually looking at how we can best prepare young people for the next stage of their lives. One of the things we often hear from Old Canfordians is the significant jump from their boarding houses to the world that sits beyond. Those experiences have provided a strong endorsement of the College strategy.’
Chair of Governors Sir Gary Coward said the development was intended to provide a broader pre-university experience, with greater independence and improved facilities.
He observed that ‘buildings only acquire meaning because of what happens inside them’, adding that the project was ‘ultimately about the pupils who will benefit from the opportunities it creates.’
Two Sixth Form pupils, Erika M and Alex E, also spoke at the opening, describing how the new facilities were already helping students take greater responsibility and develop their confidence and leadership skills.
The buildings incorporate ground source heat pumps and other energy-efficient technologies intended to reduce their long-term environmental impact.
The project was delivered with support from several professional partners, including Williams Lester Architects, Kendall Kingscott and main contractor Feltham Construction.
Following the opening ceremony, guests were given tours of the new facilities by Sixth Form pupils.
