KNIGHTON House School has started this academic year with Sarah Wicks as its new headmistress.

Mrs Wicks, with her husband Alan, say the school, in Durweston near Blandford, has a “genuinely unique ethos”.

Having been deputy head for ten years she knows the school inside out.

She said: “The traditions of scholarship, responsibility and sensitivity established by our founders, John and Peggy Booker, remain at the heart of the school’s ethos today, as we strive to nurture natural talents and build confidence with which to face life’s challenges.”

As she follows the principle of happiness creates success, Mrs Wicks tried to ensure the school effectively combines serious academia with fun.

This summer’s leavers achieved places to their first choice of secondary schools with a number of scholarships to top independent schools including St Mary’s Calne, Bryanston, Sherborne Girls and Leweston.

Once the hard work is done the children can enjoy ponies, rabbits, guinea pigs, resident bees, dens, the orchard and woods, the chickens and the pygmy goats who arrive soon!

Mrs Wicks added: “In an increasingly digitised and sanitised world, we believe in the power of real, hands-on experience. Our iconic uniform of red dungarees is a daily reminder of the school’s heritage and symbolises everything we would like Knighton children to be: vibrant, practical, resilient, standing out from the crowd and ready for the adventure of life.”

For more information or to book an appointment to come and visit Knighton House call admissions on 01258 452065 or email admissions@knighton-house.co.uk.