Downlands Community School

URN: 113659 • Blandford Forum DT11 8BG

Overview

Name
Downlands Community School
URN
113659
Type
Community school
Phase
Primary
Status
Open
Gender
Mixed
Religious
Does not apply
Admissions
Not applicable
Trust
Private
No
Ofsted rating
Requires improvement
Ranking score
55.6 / 100
School thumbnail

Leadership & Contact

Headteacher
James Rielly (since 2025) , Headteacher
Telephone
01258453348
Website
Visit
Address
Blandford Camp, Blandford Forum DT11 8BG

Summary

Downlands Community School is a mixed primary school located in Blandford Forum, Dorset, with a current enrolment of 215 pupils and a capacity for 420. The school serves children aged 3 to 11 and prides itself on creating a safe and friendly environment, particularly important given the frequent school changes experienced by many of its pupils. The school’s ethos is encapsulated in its values: "We care. We share. We believe. We achieve."

The curriculum at Downlands is broad and balanced, designed to stimulate children's curiosity and passions. In addition to standard academic subjects, the school offers opportunities for outdoor learning, such as Forest School, where children engage in activities like climbing trees and exploring nature. This hands-on approach is complemented by a commitment to ensuring that every child settles in quickly and happily, both socially and educationally.

Downlands Community School is dedicated to fostering a supportive community for its students and their families. The headteacher, James Rielly, and the staff work collaboratively to create an inclusive atmosphere where every child can thrive. For more information, visit their website at www.downlandsschool.org.

Key details

LA
Dorset
Age range
3 - 11
Boarders
No boarders
Sixth form
Does not have a sixth form
Trust
Capacity
420
Pupils
215
Boys
106
Girls
109
FSM %
4.40
Open date
Close date
Last Ofsted
2023-06-08
Next inspection
Data snapshot
2025-07-14
County
Dorset

Trends

DatePupilsBoysGirlsCapacityFSM%
2025-07-14 215 106 109 420 4.40
2024-09-11 254 109 145 420 3.30
2023-09-11 264 120 144 420 5.30
2022-09-11 264 120 144 420 5.30
2021-09-11 253 117 136 420 4.20
2020-09-11 246 120 126 420 3.70

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience.

Add a review

Please sign in to post a review. Go to login

Are you the school owner?

Claim this profile to reply to reviews and add details.

Requires login