Welcome to Gillingham School, Dorset. A mixed comprehensive school from 11-18 with Lower School and Sixth Form.
A leading secondary school in North Dorset in a beautiful setting, with high quality facilities, and an exciting array of clubs and enrichment opportunities to support the development of the whole child.
Gillingham School is able to offer a wide curriculum choices across all key stages. This allows students to excel in a variety of fields, and pursue their ambitions as they move up through the school. Students receive ongoing advice and guidance on how to achieve their goals, with a clear focus on what success looks like beyond school.
Students in all years are taught in specialist rooms and our Sixth Form enjoys the benefit of fully equipped, dedicated learning centres and an aspirational leadership programme. Our ‘Future Routes’ programme provides a high level of support in preparing students for their next steps, including specialised programmed for Oxbridge, Medical and Veterinary degrees, as well as support in applying for jobs and apprenticeships. We have an active Alumni network, and are delighted that former students return to inspire the next generation.
Join Gillingham School, where you will build your confidence, develop the skills needed to succeed, and enjoy a top class education.
Photo: Year 9 Chemistry Extraction of Copper from Malachite.
Academic subjects
Our extensive range of academic subjects are taught by expert teachers.
The options process begins during Year 8 where students make their initial choices ready for Year 9. Alongside the core subjects students are able to opt for subjects such as Business Studies, Digital Applications, Design and Technology, Food and Nutrition, Media Studies, Music Technology, Psychology, Photography and PE to give them a taste of what is available at GCSE. We are keen to help our students make the right choices, and a second opt at the end of Year 9 ensures they select the right GCSE courses to support their interests and aspirations.
At Sixth Form, we are able to offer an array of post-16 choices, including a wide suite of A Levels, BTECs, Core Maths, EPQ and an extensive enrichment and leadership programme designed to prepare students to become the change makers of the future. From September 2025 we are introducing Sociology as a new A-level, and from September 2026, Digital T Levels. Take a look at our subject curriculum, to see the wide-ranging subjects on offer.
The Creative Arts Faculty helps develop students’ creativity, empathy, problem-solving skills and confidence.
Creative activities can help people express themselves, reduce stress, and boost self-esteem.
This purpose built block was funded by the Arts Council and contains a drama studio, art gallery, music studio and practice rooms, theatre with tiered seating, dedicated sculpture and ceramics room. These facilities provide students with exceptional opportunities to succeed in the creative fields, as well as contributing significantly to the wider enrichment programme within the school.
Art
Our diverse course allows you to study Fine Art and Photography whilst developing your techniques with; painting, drawing, graphics, textiles and sculpture. We encourage you to explore your passions and interests. We have retained our darkroom for Photogram, Chemigram, Cliché Verre and experimental work. We encourage a hands on approach.
We have a skilled team with specialisms ranging from painting, textiles, screen printing, sculpture, photography, illustration and design.
Drama
Drama is taught in a purpose-built theatre with tiered seating, lighting, and sound.
Students develop performance skills while exploring lighting, sound, set, and costume design, gaining a comprehensive understanding of theatre.
A skilled team of specialists, supported by an experienced theatre technician, provide expert instruction, prepare students for careers in all aspects of theatre and production.
Music
Music at Gillingham is a vibrant hub of creativity, expression, and excellence, providing a safe environment for students to explore their musical potential. A diverse curriculum offers students opportunities to develop skills across many areas.
Passionate and experienced teachers, along with excellent facilities and equipment, mean students are encouraged to develop a lifelong love for music. A supportive extra-curricular programme is open to all with regular opportunities to perform at concerts, take part in exciting trips and join a biennial European Concert Tour.
Physical Education
Physical Education at Gillingham is a thriving subject offering many curricular and extra-curricular opportunities. The large site and outstanding facilities, including an astro and range of outdoor pitches, multi-purpose hall, dance studio, gym and indoor and outdoor climbing walls ensures this subject is a key feature of the school. We also have access to a swimming pool and professional gym, which students are encouraged to use. Students can participate in all the mainstream sports, as well as specialist activities such as climbing, mountain biking, yoga and dance. We cater for all abilities and interests across all age groups, encouraging a lifelong passion for physical activity. Students can develop their skills to a high level in lessons and through the comprehensive extra-curricular programme. Fixtures are played locally, regionally and nationally throughout the year, with students regularly going on to represent their district, county or country.
We have a passionate and dedicated team of teachers within the department, as well as many other staff who contribute to physical education and sport at Gillingham School, enabling us to provide an extensive clubs programme. We also offer a Sports Leaders and Sports Ambassadors Programme from Year 9, allowing our students to work with local primary schools to develop their leadership skills.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE)
Gillingham School is a DofE licence holder. We offer this amazing opportunity to students from Year 9 above and have high participation numbers.
Taking part in DofE award isn’t easy, you need commitment and hard work.
The elation you will feel on completion will make it worthwhile. You will have the skills and attitude to be a confident, versatile and an adaptable person and it will stand you in good stead for all future endeavours.
Get ready to start Gillingham School and learn how we will support you on your journey.
Year 6 to 7 Induction Day
All Year 6 students will have an induction day in July, to give children an introduction to the structure of secondary school. You will meet tutors and teachers, become familiar with the school surroundings and your fellow pupils. It is a day to embrace; new challenges to embrace and new friends to meet.
For anybody who is apprehensive this programme aims to support those students.
Peer to Peer Mentoring
Our School Mentoring Programme pairs trained Year 11 students with Year 7 mentees to support them through their transition to secondary school. Mentors provide guidance, answer questions, and help alleviate worries, ensuring a smoother, more confident start to their secondary school journey.
This support can help with academic performance, social life, and wellbeing.
Sixth Form Induction Day
Gillingham Sixth Form Induction Day provides a warm, informative welcome for new students entering post-16 education. The day allows students to explore the school site, meet their teachers, and discover the range of subjects and opportunities on offer. Interactive sessions highlight resources like study support and extracurricular activities. It’s also a great opportunity to meet new peers and form connections in a supportive environment. The Induction Day ensures students are well-prepared, setting a positive tone for a successful academic journey at Gillingham Sixth Form.
