Hanford Prep - Testimonial Nature & Nurture

A Unique Blend of Nature & Nurture

At Hanford, girls grow in every sense.

They plant trees, tend gardens and roam freely under ancient oaks—but they’re also gently guided, well known, and encouraged to care for others as well as themselves.

Surrounded by nature and supported by strong pastoral care, they leave with deep roots, open hearts and a quiet confidence which helps them navigate the next stages of their lives.

Nature

At Hanford, Nature isn’t just a backdrop—it’s part of our daily heartbeat.

Set in glorious Dorset countryside, we’re surrounded by lawns, fields, ancient trees and woodland perfect for exploration. Our twoacre kitchen garden and walled gardens are buzzing with life, as seasonal fruit, vegetables and soft fruit are grown to feed the whole school—picked, pressed and even made into marmalade and chutney .

Each new pupil tends her own patch, and senior girls leave their mark forever by planting a tree in their final term—a living tribute to their time at Hanford.

Nurture

At Hanford, Nurture is at the heart of school life.

It’s a small, closeknit community where every teacher knows every girl—her quirks, her worries, and what makes her shine. Our tutor system, coupled with a dedicated pastoral team and an Independent Listener, ensures every child is seen, supported and valued, There’s always someone to turn to, and always someone looking out for you.

In such a supportive environment, girls naturally learn to be nurturing themselves. They grow in empathy through helping to care for animals—ponies, chickens, dogs—and enjoy stepping into the role of ‘big sister’ to younger pupils. Whether it’s helping with early morning pony catches or showing someone new the ropes, kindness is instinctive.

After all, there’s only one school rule at Hanford: Be Kind.