Grounds

Nestled in 30 acres of stunning countryside on the Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire border, Ashfold provides an inspiring and enriching environment where children can learn, play, and explore. Our beautifully landscaped gardens, woodlands, and open spaces allow pupils the freedom to embrace outdoor learning and adventure.

Children have ample space to play and enjoy nature, with three playgrounds, Meadow, Forest School, and acres of woodland perfect for den-building and imaginative play. For our energetic pupils, our extensive playing fields provide top-quality rugby, football, and cricket pitches, while our full-sized astroturf ensures high-level hockey training and matches throughout the year. Our netball and tennis courts offer excellent multi-sport facilities, and during the summer months, our heated outdoor swimming pool is a much-loved feature of school life.

Our historic Walled Garden, dating back to the 19th century, remains a key space for rugby, football, and summer sports, while Ashfold Lake—a registered fishery—provides a haven for wildlife and wildfowl, offering pupils the opportunity to observe nature up close.

Buildings

Ashfold’s home, Dorton House, is a magnificent Grade I listed Jacobean mansion, built between 1596 and 1626. This impressive setting houses the Junior Department, Library, Saloon, kitchens, dining rooms, and boarding accommodation, as well as the Headmaster’s study.

Clock Court, with its cobbled courtyard, was constructed at the same time as the Mansion and is Grade II listed. The former stables have been thoughtfully repurposed to accommodate the English, History, French, Latin, and Religious Studies departments, as well as our Performance Studio, which provides an intimate setting for drama and public speaking.

Over the years, our facilities have expanded to support our commitment to academic excellence and co-curricular enrichment. Additions include:

• A purpose-built Pre-Prep Building, designed to provide a nurturing and stimulating environment for our youngest pupils.
• A spacious Sports Hall, catering for a wide variety of indoor activities and team training.
• A specialist Music School, where pupils can develop their instrumental and vocal talents in dedicated practice and performance spaces.
• The Shippon, home to our two Science Labs, Computing Lab, Maths, and Geography Departments, providing facilities for STEM subjects.
• Our stunning Art & Design Centre, featuring purpose-built spaces for Design Technology, Cookery & Nutrition, Art, Textiles, and Ceramics.

Set just behind the Mansion, Dorton Church, a 12th-century parish church, adds to the school’s deep sense of tradition and community.

A Vision for the Future

Ashfold continues to invest in the very best facilities to enhance the educational experience of our pupils. A key part of this vision is the Centenary Hall, set to open next year. This exciting new development will provide a state-of-the-art performance and events space, further enriching our drama, music, and public speaking opportunities. Designed to be a hub for creativity and celebration, the Centenary Hall will be a landmark addition to our school, ensuring that Ashfold remains at the forefront of preparatory education for generations to come.

"An idyllic country school"

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