Bedford School 3

Welcome to Bedford School

Thank you for taking the time to read about Bedford School. I hope that you find it a wonderfully busy and inspiring school.

Bedford is a school steeped in history, having been founded by Royal Charter back in 1552, and one which seeks to merge its rich heritage with a quickly changing world to enable its boys to thrive, not only through their school days but through university and beyond. We believe in a well-grounded, ambitious education which seeks to imbue boys with the four age-old pillars of our community: integrity, responsibility, curiosity and endeavour. To achieve this, we provide a vast array of activities, to which this prospectus is testament, so that each boy can find a lifelong passion. We enable boys to look beyond what they feel is possible, both academically and outside the classroom; we encourage an atmosphere of friendship, collegiality and mutual respect, whilst also retaining the love of competitiveness which comes so naturally to boys, and we require boys to engage with the wider world, in preparation for their adult lives. All these aspects help every boy to gain a genuine sense of self-belief which will provide the strongest possible foundations for their future. I hope that the following pages give you a flavour of life at Bedford School. However, nothing compares with a personal visit “THE QUALITY OF PUPILS’ OVERALL ACHIEVEMENT and I warmly welcome you to come and see the School for yourself. IS EXCELLENT. THROUGHOUT THE SCHOOL, I very much look forward to meeting you. PUPILS ARE WELL EDUCATED AND ENJOY A RICH EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE THAT REFLECTS THE Teaching boys SCHOOL’S AIMS. THE WIDE CURRICULUM AND TO THINK Boys thrive in Bedford’s EXTENSIVE EXTRA-CURRICULAR PROGRAMME INTELLIGENTLY, happy, caring and ACT WISELY AND purposeful atmosphere. MAKE AN EXCELLENT CONTRIBUTION TO PUPILS’ ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT.” BE FULLY ENGAGED James Hodgson in a challenging Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) Report Head Master and changing world. Bedford School 5 Pastoral Care

We are dedicated to offering the highest standard of pastoral care to each and every “RELATIONSHIPS boy in our care. We understand that in THROUGHOUT THE order to thrive and succeed academically, SCHOOL COMMUNITY boys need to feel supported and encouraged. ARE SUPPORTIVE, FRIENDLY AND BACKED BY CLEAR EXPECTATIONS OF In line with our boarding ethos, our houses are at the heart of our pastoral care system. Providing a sense of belonging to every boy, BEHAVIOUR.” whether a day boy or boarder, the houses contribute greatly to the much Independent admired, friendly, family feel that is evident throughout the School. Schools Inspectorate From their first day to their last, boys remain in the same house and (ISI) Report through our vertical tutor system new and younger boys grow and develop alongside the older ones, and are inspired to achieve similar levels of success.

12 Each boy gets to know his tutor very well and over time a high degree of trust is formed. In close partnership with parents, tutors are able to guide each boy sensitively through his daily life at the School, providing counselling on all matters, academic, social or personal. As the boys move up through the School, this remains a constant and reassuring source of support, particularly at crucial times such as examinations. Right: Boys form strong bonds with With the benefit of individual attention, genuine warmth and careful their housemates throughout guidance, boys soon feel at home, forming new and varied friendships their time at Bedford, sharing as they settle into the relaxed atmosphere of their Bedford ‘family’. invaluable experiences.

Map ref 12: Our iconic main building is at the heart of the Upper School and houses the Great Hall, classrooms and computer suites. About Bedford School For boys between the ages of 13 and 18, we offer the Bedford School is one of the country’s leading opportunity of a lifetime: the chance to explore their abilities and their world in an inspiring and supportive environment independent boarding and day schools for that takes into account their own needs and talents. boys. We are firmly focused on the future. From the classroom to the sports field, in laboratories and theatres, on excursions and exchanges, they are challenged academically, socially and culturally. They benefit from our dedicated and highly qualified staff, and outstanding facilities. They learn exciting new skills and knowledge, and how to prepare themselves for a successful future. We pride ourselves on our strong academic results. We expect great things from our boys and challenge them to achieve their very best. Yet our greatest achievement is the unique opportunity we give every boy. The potential to develop into well-rounded young men with confidence, compassion and critical minds. Bedford School 7 Study, Learn

Academic excellence is central to life at Bedford School. The Bedford Curriculum, “THE CURRICULUM which extends well beyond national IS EXCELLENT IN ITS requirements, is structured to provide a COVERAGE OF ALL balanced and varied choice of subjects AREAS OF LEARNING. that release the potential in each boy and IT IS WIDE RANGING, challenge their individual strengths. We CHALLENGING AND encourage boys to aspire to the highest possible SUITABLE FOR ALL AGES, standards and to exceed their expectations. ABILITIES AND NEEDS.” Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) Report Technology is used extensively to support and enhance learning, but literacy and numeracy skills remain fundamental to all that we do. Every department is staffed by specialists with a passion for their subject. Classes are small and teaching is personalised. 3 Each boy’s academic progress is tracked through a structured and carefully monitored tutorial and academic progress system.

Prep plays an important part in each boy’s academic life. As well as Across all subject preparation for lessons and completion of assignments, it encourages areas, boys benefit the development of time management skills and an appetite for from outstanding Boarding and Day self-motivated study, both essential for long-term success. facilities and resources.

The Bedford School community is

characterised by a warm and friendly Map ref 13: atmosphere, where boarders and day boys Boarders and day boys both enjoy a wide choice of tasty, healthy and happily interact in all areas of School life. nutritious meals in our Dining Halls.

“THE QUALITY OF PUPILS’ Across the entire School, boys benefit from the huge range of activities and superb facilities and enjoy friendships that extend PASTORAL CARE IS beyond the school gates and into the local community. EXCELLENT, AND EFFECTIVE Each of our six boarding houses has its own unique character and is SYSTEMS IDENTIFY run as an extended family by its Housemaster and their spouse. All are AND RESPOND TO ably supported by a team of tutors, matrons and domestic staff who 13 INDIVIDUAL NEEDS. THE ensure that each boy’s welfare and health are safeguarded, as well as his academic progress. Boys have unrestricted access to Houseparents EXPERIENCE OF BOARDING and this open-door policy encourages a strong relationship between MAKES AN EXCELLENT parents, staff and boys. The accommodation is excellent. The rooms CONTRIBUTION TO are attractive, comfortable and thoughtfully planned and common PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT, areas are fully equipped to cater for a wide range of interests and recreational needs. Visits, tours and outings are regularly organised GROWING INDEPENDENCE and the programme of activities includes debates, plays, concerts, go- AND SELF-RELIANCE.” karting and paintballing. Those who choose weekly boarding go home at weekends, subject to school commitments, after lessons on Saturdays. Independent Schools Inspectorate 18 (ISI) Report Bedford School 9

Sixth Form “SIXTH FORM PUPILS ARE SEEN AS OLDER BROTHERS. Moving into the Sixth Form is challenging. PUPILS ARE OPEN, FRIENDLY AND CONSIDERATE OF It is a time of transition when boys are ONE ANOTHER, OF TEACHERS AND OF VISITORS.” encouraged to take increased personal Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) Report responsibility, both in their working environment and their personal lives.

To allow for individual choice, we offer both A Levels and the highly regarded International Baccalaureate (IB). With an emphasis on academic success, our combined A*-B rate We encourage boys to (or equivalent) is invariably well in excess of 80%. develop independent minds and personal aspirations. At A Level, we offer boys flexibility in their subject options, ensuring the broadest choice of potential degree courses. Boys also benefit from an excellent and wide-ranging skills programme that will stand them in good stead for university life. Alternatively, the internationally recognised IB Diploma challenges boys to evaluate information critically, emphasising in-depth study 10 across a breadth of disciplines with a global perspective. We guide boys through their choices ensuring that they make informed decisions, taking into account their abilities and preferences together with higher education and career aims. We strive to enhance boys’ future opportunities to enable them to be confident and creative builders of their own futures.

Map ref 10: Our impressive library provides a superb resource for boys. 10 Bedford School

Creative Arts

The Creative Arts pervade school life at Bedford. In the theatre, in the Music School, in our Art studios and beyond, we offer boys the opportunity to explore their individual creativity and hone their many talents.

Our dedicated Music School is home to one of the largest Music departments in the country and a high proportion of boys learn to play one or more instruments. Boys can choose to study any orchestral or band instrument together with piano, organ, guitar – even harp. Our performance programme is full and varied. Musicians perform throughout the year, culminating in a series of concerts at the end of each summer term. The senior music groups are the School First (symphony) Orchestra, a Second Orchestra and Chamber Orchestra, as well as a large number of chamber groups. In addition, the School Band, two Brass Ensembles, Dance Band, Jazz and Rock groups as well as the 150-strong Choral Society and Chapel Choir, give every boy an opportunity to find the style and level that is right for him. Drama also thrives and our splendid new £6.5 million theatre is an Sport impressive addition to performing arts at Bedford. Each year boys produce and perform a wide range of exciting and ambitious shows, and experience first-hand some of the best in touring theatre. In our specialist Art studios, boys are encouraged to explore their Bedford School has a proud sporting individual creativity and to work with confidence and ambition. tradition and our enviable reputation We strive to inspire boys and impart a lifelong appreciation of Art. for success in rugby, cricket, hockey and rowing is well deserved.

Boys benefit from a superb twin AstroTurf complex with floodlights, indoor swimming pool, sports hall, tennis and Map ref 7: squash courts, climbing wall, well-equipped recreation The award- centre and acres of immaculate playing fields. winning Music School provides At the top end, our sportsmen compete at the highest level, regularly 7 an inspirational winning national trophies. There are many professional sportsmen setting for our amongst our recent old boys. Yet our aim is to inspire all boys with talented musicians. a lifelong interest in sport, whatever their ability – we aim to find “PUPILS’ EDUCATIONAL at least one team or individual sport that each of them will love. EXPERIENCE IS GREATLY Our staff share our sporting ethos, with almost all of them involved ENHANCED BY A RICH AND at some level, and there are many opportunities to represent the VARIED EXTRA-CURRICULAR School in a wide range of sports. As well as forging strong links PROGRAMME OF THE HIGHEST with major local clubs, including Northampton Saints Rugby Club and Woburn Golf Club, we employ high profile professional QUALITY, WHICH IS coaching staff, a physiotherapist and sports psychologist. UNDERPINNED BY DEDICATED STAFF AND COACHES.” Above: We value sport not only for the health and fitness benefits From beginner to elite athlete, we offer every boy the it offers but also for the value of great camaraderie, Independent Schools opportunity to participate in a wide range of sporting activities. teamwork and self-motivation it instils. Inspectorate (ISI) Report Bedford School 13 Future

From their earliest years at Bedford School, boys develop the skills that will take them confidently into ‘THE QUALITY OF PUPILS’ higher education and future careers. PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT IS EXCELLENT. THEY THRIVE IN A HAPPY, CARING AND As they prepare to move on, each boy receives close support and PURPOSEFUL ATMOSPHERE. guidance to make an informed decision on the best university PUPILS GROW IN CONFIDENCE course for them. The vast majority choose to go to university AND THE SCHOOL BUZZES and attend their first choice institution, with over 70% of boys annually offered places at Russell Group Universities. WITH ACTIVITY.’ During their time here, boys face challenges, extend their Independent Schools experience and discover much about themselves, achieving more Inspectorate (ISI) Report than they ever thought possible. They emerge as thoughtful, energetic and personable young men, independent thinkers and effective communicators. They are ambitious to move forward and make the most of the opportunities that life will offer. The friendships forged at School stay with them for life. The Old Bedfordian Club, with a current membership of 8,000, is one of the All boys receive largest and most successful in the country. Old boys have established information, advice careers throughout the world and form an incomparable network and guidance through of contacts. With their expertise and experience, they continue, a comprehensive Above: even long after they have left, to contribute to the richness of life careers and Higher Boys enjoy links with Bedford Girls’ at Bedford School; and we love to stay in touch with them too! Education programme. School, a single sex school that Activities is also part of The Harpur Trust.

Bedford seeks to develop a sense of adventure in all our boys.

We want boys to leave the School well-equipped to take responsibility for their own lives. The skills we develop outside the classroom help boys thrive in a fast-changing world, think dynamically, take the initiative and work in a team with respect for others. Our programme of extracurricular activities allows boys of all ages and backgrounds to come together, broaden their horizons and build new friendships. Our 70 clubs and societies offer a diverse and eclectic mix of activities from astronomy to dancing, poetry to weight training, from Duke of Edinburgh to Young Enterprise. Life “EXCELLENT SOCIAL outside the classroom is busy and full of possibility. AWARENESS. THEY ARE We’ve developed close relationships and collaboration with Bedford Girls’ School, giving boys and girls the chance to spend time together FINE AMBASSADORS in a variety of activities. From the ever popular, 160-strong, Combined FOR THE SCHOOL.” Cadet Force to Music, debating and joint theatre productions, boys enjoy a full range of opportunities in a mixed setting. Independent 3 Schools Inspectorate We hope also that boys will take a genuine passion for the (ISI) Report activities discovered at Bedford with them into adulthood.

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3 Pemberley 1 Find us 4 Study Centre 5 By road Pavilion 2 from London and the M1 Motorway 4 6 Chapel Leave the M1 motorway at junction 14 and join the A428 which leads to the edge of town. 7 Music School 3 from the North – Wellingborough and the A6 8 Science Enter the town along the A6, turning left into Roff Avenue at Playing Fields 9 Burnaby the roundabout with Tavistock Street and Union Street. 5 10 Library from the East – Cambridge and the A1 6 Turn off the A1 onto the A421, later joining the A428 at the 11 Memorial Hall roundabout on the outskirts of Bedford. The A428 runs 7 12 Main Building Car park into Goldington Road, turn right into Polhill Avenue. 8 13 Dining Hall BURNABY RD 9 Satellite navigation information 14 Talbots 11 12 10 13 Please enter the following postcode 15 Recreation Centre MK40 2TT & Swimming Pool 14 15 By rail 16 Eagle House 17 Erskine May Building It is just 35 minutes from St Pancras International 16 17 to Bedford train station. 18 Prep School & DT 18

19 Art School 19 By air 20 The Inky 22 21 Stansted airport is just 45 minutes away by road, and 20 Luton airport 30 minutes. Bedford is also ideally positioned 21 Nash’s & Palmer’s for easy access to Gatwick and Heathrow airports. 22 Theatre Bedford School, De Parys Avenue, Bedford MK40 2TU Tel: +44 (0)1234 362216 Fax: +44 (0)1234 362283 Email: [email protected] www.bedfordschool.org.uk

Bedford School is part of The Harpur Trust: a company limited by guarantee Registered in England: Company No. 3475202 Registered Office: Pilgrim Centre, Brickhill Drive, Bedford, MK41 7PZ Registered Charity No. 1066861