Mountjoy School, Beaminster

In its own words: "We want to prepare our children and young people for adult life so they have options and aspirations. They need to be confident and happy so they can thrive in the real world. Respect - treat others properly; we are all equal, we are stronger together Optimism - be hopeful; imagine the best future and make it happen"

From the headteacher's welcome: "The last Ofsted report captured why it is a very special place to learn and to teach (see below). We hold our pupils in very high regard and work closely with our families to ensure what we do helps them grow into happy, resilient adults with a strong sense of what they want from the future."

38.4% of pupils are eligible for free school meals, and 6.3% speak English as an additional language, according to the 2026 school census.

Almost every pupil at Mountjoy School has an education, health and care plan (112 of 112 in 2026). The most common need among them is autism.

Mountjoy School provides for pupils with visual impairment, other difficulties or disabilities, hearing impairment, speech, language and communication needs, autism, physical disability, moderate learning difficulties, severe learning difficulties and profound and multiple learning difficulties.

There is no railway, tram or Underground station within about three miles of Mountjoy School.

In August 2026, police recorded 7 crimes within a mile of the school, most often anti-social behaviour, violence and sexual offences and other theft. That is well below the typical figure around schools in Dorset (25).

In 2024/25, Mountjoy School issued 2 suspensions, 1.8 for every 100 pupils, and no permanent exclusions.