Sedbergh School Overview
Sedbergh School is a co-educational independent school in the town of Sedbergh, in North West England. It is one of the nine famous full boarding schools. Conveniently located within a 90-minute drive from Manchester and Liverpool international airports, the school is founded in 1525 by the Provost of Eton and is said to be “Eton in the north”.
While it may not be the top ranked school academically in the UK, the quality and reputation of Sedbergh stands out. The school preserves traditional English educational philosophy, and devotes significant resources on improving the facilities for the comfort of its students. Famous alumni include John Bruce Lockhart, the Scottish cricket player and the former housemaster of Rugby School.
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Academic Matters
The school instils a mindset of initiative and courage—pupils are encouraged not just to seize opportunities, but to create them. The belief is clear: it is better to try and fail than to hold back out of fear.
Most pupils are highly motivated, working hard to achieve top grades and secure places at leading universities. Popular destinations include Newcastle, Edinburgh, Leeds, and Loughborough.
To support every student’s journey, the school ensures they are equipped with the knowledge and confidence to make informed choices about their future. Tutors, Housemasters, and the Careers Department work closely together to keep both students and parents well-informed and supported at every stage.
Sedbergh School Courses And Programmes
Sedbergh offers a dynamic curriculum from Year 9 to Year 13, tailored to support individual interests, develop real-world skills, and prepare students for top universities worldwide.
Year 9 – 9 Inspire Programme
A distinctive year of exploration designed to spark curiosity and develop key skills such as teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving. The programme encourages interdisciplinary learning and fosters core values like resilience and kindness.
GCSE (Ages 14–16)
Pupils study up to 10 subjects, including core subjects (English, Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology) and a wide choice of electives. Lessons are tailored by ability groups. A one-year GCSE option is available for international students aged 15.
A-Levels & BTECs (Ages 16–18)
Students choose from 29 A-Level and BTEC subjects, enabling flexible combinations suited to university and career goals. Subjects span sciences, arts, humanities, and vocational fields, including:
A-Level: Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Psychology, Art, Geography, etc.
BTEC: Business, Sport, Agriculture, IT
1-Year Pre-A Level Programme
Designed for international pupils aged 15–17, this course bridges the academic and cultural gap before progressing to A-Levels or equivalent qualifications. Pupils may sit up to 5 GCSEs and receive intensive EAL support in a full-boarding setting.
Sedbergh School Fees
Sedbergh School Application Deadline
Applications for boarding places should be submitted to the College before the September prior to the start of the academic year the student wishes to enter. For example, applications for entry in either September 2026 or January 2027 should be submitted before September 2025.
Sedbergh School Boarding And Pastoral Care
Sedbergh has nine senior Houses in total: six for boys and three for girls—All embodying the traditional boarding house spirit. Each House has its own library, common rooms, computer suite and dining room, enabling pupils to study, socialise and dine in their House as well as sleep.
They also have an in-house health centre with their own doctor, nurses and physiotherapist. Each House offers an exciting array of activities – ranging from pure fun to the more serious inter-House competitions. These can encourage every pupil to feel they have something worthwhile to contribute, and also to help expand each pupil’s horizons so that they gain an all-rounded education.
Sedbergh School Extracurricular Activities
Extracurricular Life at Sedbergh
Extracurricular activities are central to Sedbergh’s holistic approach to education, offering students the chance to develop leadership, teamwork, and confidence beyond the classroom.
Leadership & Service
Programmes such as the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), Duke of Edinburgh Award, and charity or voluntary work provide valuable opportunities for pupils to lead, serve, and grow as responsible individuals.
Outdoor Adventures
Sedbergh’s stunning natural surroundings open up nearly limitless options for outdoor pursuits. Pupils enjoy everything from fishing and kayaking to more adventurous activities like caving and mountain biking—experiences rarely found in southern schools.
A standout tradition is the Wilson Run, a 10-mile cross-country race woven into the school’s heritage. It is a major annual event that draws wide participation from students, staff, parents, and alumni.
Sporting Excellence
With a national reputation for sport, Sedbergh pupils compete at county and national levels. The school offers 34 sports, including rugby, long-distance running, golf, basketball, squash, tennis, shooting, and swimming.
Music & Performing Arts
Creativity thrives at Sedbergh. Many pupils pursue their artistic passions into higher education, supported by excellent facilities including a private theatre, performance spaces, and a recording studio. Students can form their own bands, join national tours, and take part in regular public performances in music and drama.
Sedbergh School Reviews
Sedbergh School Contact Information
- Address: Sedbergh School, Sedbergh, Cumbria, LA10 5HG
- Tel: 015396 20535
- Email: schoolsecretary@sedberghschool.org
- Website: https://sedberghschool.org/
