Sedbergh School prioritizes a well-rounded education brimming with opportunities. This approach empowers each student to discover their talents and challenge themselves academically and athletically. The school offers a traditional boarding experience that fosters independence and resilience, alongside an exceptional sports program designed to help students excel and discover their strengths.
Celebrating its 500th anniversary, Sedbergh balances its rich heritage with a modern approach to learning and personal development. By recognizing student achievements, the school instills confidence and motivates them to embrace new challenges. Whether aiming for prestigious universities or requiring additional academic support, Sedbergh's dedicated teachers are committed to guiding each student on their unique path to success.

History of Sedbergh School
Founded in 1525 by Roger Lupton, Provost of Eton College, Sedbergh School has a rich history. Legend has it that Lupton himself walked 270 miles from Sedbergh to London to pursue his own education, as no local school existed at the time.
Evans House, the oldest boarding house, dates back to around 1750. Initially a private residence, it became the headmaster's residence and a boarding house. Local folklore even suggests a secret tunnel connecting the house to the neighboring church, allegedly used by Bonnie Prince Charlie during his escape.
The original school building likely stood on the site of the current library, a structure dating back to 1716. This early library, with its single fireplace and rows of pupils seated according to seniority, presented a stark contrast to the modern library with its comfortable study spaces and scholars' booths.

Education System at Sedbergh School
Nursery
The Mulberry Bush follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, a set of standards that all early years providers in England must adhere to. The EYFS provides guidance on supporting children's learning and development from birth to the age of five, ensuring a high-quality and consistent approach to early childhood education.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum encompasses seven key areas of learning and development, categorized into three Prime Areas and four Specific Areas. While all areas are essential for a child's overall growth, the Prime Areas are considered particularly crucial. These areas focus on building strong foundations for learning by fostering positive relationships, developing personal, social and emotional skills, and cultivating communication and language skills. By prioritizing these core areas, the EYFS aims to ignite children's curiosity, imagination, and enthusiasm for learning.
The three Prime Areas:
- Personal Development
- Communication and Language
- Physical Development
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) also encompasses four Specific Areas of Learning. These areas focus on developing fundamental skills, including literacy, numeracy, and an understanding of the world around them.

Prep school
The Pre-Prep section of the school warmly welcomes children aged 4 to 7, from Reception through Year 2. Within this nurturing and dynamic environment, young learners thrive.
In the Pre-Prep, children receive specialized instruction in subjects such as art, music, physical education, and French. They also have regular access to key facilities, including the library, design and technology workshop, computer suites, and science laboratories.
A significant feature of the Pre-Prep is "The Den," an innovative outdoor classroom designed to foster curiosity and creativity. This outdoor learning space allows children to engage with nature, develop essential life skills, and enjoy the freedom of learning in the fresh air
Years 3 and 4
In Years 3 and 4, pupils receive instruction in core subjects such as Mathematics, English, Humanities, and Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHEE) from their form teachers. While ensuring the well-being and pastoral care of each student, the curriculum also incorporates specialist teaching in subjects like Science, French, Religious Studies, Design and Technology (DTE), Computer Science, Art, and Music, delivered in dedicated classrooms across the school.
Years 5 and 6
In Years 5 and 6, students continue to receive pastoral support from their form teacher. However, they assume greater independence in their learning and benefit from specialist teaching across all subjects, including English, Mathematics, Science, French, and History.
Years 7 and 8
Years 7 and 8 at this school are organized into three forms, each with approximately 15 students. This smaller class size fosters a more intimate learning environment. Students in these years engage in a comprehensive curriculum encompassing Mathematics, English, Science, History, Geography, Religious Studies, Design, Technology, and Engineering, Computer Science, Art, and Performing Arts.
Senior school
Year 9
Year 9 represents a pivotal stage in a student's academic journey, serving as a bridge between the foundational learning of Key Stage 3 and the upcoming GCSE examinations. This year is crucial for both academic and social development.
Academically, the curriculum is designed to be challenging and engaging, stimulating intellectual curiosity and preparing students for the demands of GCSEs. Socially, Year 9 provides a crucial opportunity for students to expand their social circles, forge new friendships, and explore their individual strengths and abilities.
By carefully balancing academic rigor with opportunities for social and personal growth, Sedbergh's Year 9 curriculum ensures a smooth and fulfilling transition for students as they navigate this important phase of their education.

GCSE
(Years 10 and 11)
The GCSE selection process marks a significant milestone in a student's academic journey. While adhering to national curriculum guidelines, the school leverages its unique location in the Yorkshire Dales to enrich the learning experience.
For example, Biology and Geography students benefit from direct observation of the local environment, exploring grasslands, woodlands, and freshwater locations on campus and in the surrounding fells. English Literature studies draw inspiration from the works of local poets, while the rural setting provides ideal conditions for Physics students to observe astronomical phenomena.
The school aims to provide a broad curriculum that maximizes future academic and career options. All students study core subjects, complemented by a language, a humanities subject, and a specialized subject such as Computer Science or Music. This balanced approach ensures a strong foundation for future learning and personal growth.
Sixth Form
(Years 12 and 13)
Year 12 students typically begin their A-Level studies with four subjects. By the October half-term, students have the option to reduce their subject load to three, allowing them to focus on their chosen subjects and potentially undertake the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ).
Students typically sit internal school examinations in the early summer term of Year 12, with exceptions for A-Level Geography and all BTEC courses, which have external assessments throughout the two-year program.
The majority of Year 13 students continue with three A-Levels. They participate in mock examinations in February and subsequently sit the final external examinations at the end of the two-year course.
Boarding at Sedbergh School
Sedbergh School is a leading example of a traditional full-boarding school in the UK, thriving within the picturesque and safe setting of the Yorkshire Dales. The boarding houses at Sedbergh form the heart of the school community, fostering an environment of leadership, loyalty, and laughter.
Boarding houses provide a sense of family for students, both during their time at school and beyond. The strong sense of camaraderie and support extends across all year groups, with an effective prefecting system ensuring that younger students have access to support from older pupils in addition to their Housemasters, Housemistresses, and Tutors.
Sedbergh currently comprises six boys' houses and three girls' houses, each contributing to the unique and vibrant boarding community.
Sedbergh School maintains the tradition of House Dining, fostering a strong sense of community and participation. Three times a day, students and staff gather together for meals, creating opportunities for social interaction and shared experiences.

extra-curricular
A key characteristic of a Sedbergh education lies in its strong emphasis on personal development and active student participation. The school excels at identifying and nurturing the unique talents and strengths of each individual. Through a wide range of educational opportunities, Sedbergh fosters confidence, leadership skills, and a well-rounded approach to learning.
International students
Sedbergh School is a leading educational institution, recognized for its excellence. In 2023, it was awarded the Boarding Schools' Association 'School of the Year' for its exceptional support of international boarders and was ranked among the top 250 boarding schools globally by Forbes.
More than just a school, Sedbergh fosters a vibrant community that nurtures the intellectual and personal growth of its students. The curriculum, designed to inspire curiosity and critical thinking, empowers students to excel both academically and personally. From the innovative "9 Inspire" program in Year 9 to tailored pre-A-Level courses, GCSEs, A-Levels, and BTECs, the school offers a diverse range of academic pathways to suit individual student needs.
With a strong emphasis on boarding, 98% of students reside on campus, creating a close-knit and supportive community. Located in a safe and convenient location with easy access to shops, cafes, and a supermarket, Sedbergh provides an ideal environment for both academic and personal growth. Its proximity to major airports and excellent connectivity to London and beyond make it an accessible location for both domestic and international students.
Admissions Process
- To formally apply for a place at the school, prospective parents must register their child(ren). Registration Forms are available from the Admissions Team and require a non-refundable fee of £200.00. A copy of the child's most recent School Report must be submitted alongside the completed Registration Form.
- Assessments and References
All applicants will undergo an interview with the Headmaster or a member of the Senior Management Team and complete an aptitude test. Prospective Year 9 students will either take the ISEB Common Entrance exams or complete school-based assessments in Mathematics and English/English as an Additional Language. Applicants to the Sixth Form are required to submit an essay and provide predicted and, when available, mock GCSE results.
- Place Offer
Following successful completion of the assessment process and receipt of a satisfactory reference, an offer of admission may be made, subject to place availability. Acceptance of the offer requires the payment of an Acceptance Deposit.

Sedbergh School Fees
Before Admission
Registration and Deposits |
|
Registration fee – All pupils | £200 |
Acceptance deposit – Day pupils | £1,500 |
Acceptance deposit – UK boarder | £2,000 |
Acceptance deposit – Overseas boarders 2 terms or fewer | £2,000 |
Acceptance deposit – Overseas boarders 3 terms or more | £5,000 |
Tuition Fees
UK Resident Year 9 to 11 | Termly |
Tuition fee and Day pupils + Boarding supplement | £15,600 |
UK Resident Year 12 to 13 |
|
Tuition fee and Day pupils + Boarding supplement | £16,210 |
Overseas Year 9 to 11 |
|
Tuition fee + Boarding supplement | £16,380 |
Overseas Year 12 to 13 |
|
Tuition fee + Boarding supplement | £17,065 |