Bedford School

Pastoral care is a central pillar of life at Bedford School, shaping an environment where boys feel safe, supported, and confident in themselves. The school prioritises each pupil’s wellbeing—emotionally, socially, and academically—ensuring that every boy is known as an individual and has access to consistent guidance throughout his time at Bedford.

The pastoral care system is rooted in the Tutor Group and House systems. Class Teachers and Form Tutors build strong relationships with the boys in their care, creating a stable and nurturing foundation. Each boy is also a member of one of four houses—Bunyan, Harpur, Howard, or Whitbread—where boys across year groups bond through music, sport, competitions, and community projects. This structure promotes a shared identity and a healthy sense of belonging.

Weekly boarders return on Sunday night or Monday morning, while full boarders enjoy a vibrant weekend programme of trips and events. House life includes a wide range of inter-house activities, such as paintballing, plays, quizzes, and traditional sports competitions, helping boys develop camaraderie, independence, and leadership.

The school is well-equipped to support pupils with a wide range of special educational needs, including autism spectrum conditions, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia. Staff work closely with families to ensure personalised, effective learning support is in place for each boy who needs it.

Personal development is also woven into the curriculum. All boys take a weekly lesson focused on topics outlined by the PSHE Association, taught by their Head of Year or a specialist teacher. The programme encourages boys to explore key areas such as mental and physical health, digital safety, relationships, respect, personal identity, and citizenship. It reflects the school’s five core values: Kindness, Endeavour, Responsibility, Integrity, and Curiosity.

Physical and mental health are strongly supported through an on-site medical centre staffed by five nurses, with regular GP visits provided by the De Parys Group. A longstanding counselling service is available five days a week, offering a confidential space for boys to seek support. Parents can also be referred to external services if further help is needed.

Lastly, spiritual life plays an integral role in the wider pastoral framework. The school Chapel stands as a symbol of community and reflection, welcoming students of all faiths and none. A regular pattern of services—including Morning and Evening Prayer, Holy Communion, and Choral Evensong—offers students and staff opportunities for quiet reflection and collective worship. The Chaplain is available to provide pastoral support to any member of the school community.