Question 1

Is Cerne Abbas CofE VC First School a good school?

Accepted Answer

Ofsted graded the school Good at the inspection on 12 July 2023, with Good judgements for quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, and early years provision. The report highlights strong early reading practice and a calm, orderly culture, with safeguarding confirmed as effective.

Question 2

What are the fees at Cerne Abbas CofE VC First School?

Accepted Answer

This is a state school with no tuition fees for Reception to Year 4. The on-site Ducklings pre-school publishes its session charges separately; families should check the school’s official information for current early years pricing and any funded-hours eligibility.

Question 3

How do I apply for Reception entry?

Accepted Answer

Reception admissions are coordinated by Dorset Council. For September 2027 entry, Dorset Council’s published deadline is 15 January 2027, with offers released on 16 April 2027 for on-time applications. Late applications are processed after the on-time round.

Question 4

Does the school have nursery or pre-school places?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Ducklings provides on-site pre-school places for children aged 3 to 4 within the Early Years Foundation Stage. Admission is managed by the school’s Ducklings admissions policy, which considers availability, waiting list length, catchment, and siblings.

Question 5

Does attending Ducklings guarantee a Reception place?

Accepted Answer

No. The Ducklings admissions policy states that attendance in pre-school does not provide priority for Reception. Reception places are allocated through the local authority’s coordinated admissions process.

Question 6

What are the school hours and wraparound options?

Accepted Answer

The school publishes an 8.45am compulsory start and a 3.15pm end to the school day, with a before-school club listed from 8.00am. After-school provision is shown mainly through clubs on specified days; families who need childcare beyond club finish times should confirm arrangements directly with the school.

Question 7

Which school do pupils move on to after Year 4?

Accepted Answer

As a Dorset first school, pupils typically transfer to middle school at the end of Year 4. Dorset admissions guidance identifies Dorchester Middle School as the feeder middle school for this school, subject to normal admissions arrangements.

Ofsted Inspection

Inspection History

Inspection Categories