At West Buckland School, we proudly stand among the leading independent schools in the UK, for boys and girls aged 3 to 18. Our ethos distinguishes us, as we prioritise shaping the school experience around each child. With a commitment to exceptional teaching, we place the child at the heart of all we do. Our ultimate goal is to empower every individual to discover their unique excellence.
A Welcome from Helen Lowe, Head
โThe highest reward for your toil is not what you get for it but what you become by it.โ John Ruskin
Welcome to West Buckland School
Tradition and Innovation Combined
Founded in 1858 for the children of local farmers, West Buckland School is an exciting and special place. It is rich in tradition, its links to its past so well guarded and celebrated through its Foundation and President, Lady Arran, yet it also boasts a future-driven agenda to ensure it remains wholly relevant and forward-thinking in the education and opportunities it provides. West Buckland is a school with a buoyant future.
The school is one of an increasingly small number of truly independent schools. We do not have to bow to private investorsโ agendas and so can focus fully on what is best for our pupils without any external pressures. Though funding is, of course, key to schools, the idea that a schoolโs provision of scholarships and bursaries is in place just to increase numbers, rather than add value to the pupils involved, is not something which West Buckland, or I, could ever support. A school is not just getting the children through the doors โ it must deliver for those pupils once they are there. Sitting at Speech Day in July, it was clear that the traditions of the school and the depth of feeling it engenders in all those who are part of it are evident for all to see. If you want a school where there is a heart and soul, West Buckland is the place.
We are no longer living in a world where the imparting of knowledge is what a school does; knowledge for our young people is everywhere at the click of a button. With continued technological innovation and the growth in AI, I believe that adaptive teaching, kindness, intellectual discussion and debating skills are more important than ever. We blend the underpinning motto of Read and Reap with our character values, innovation, sustainability, playing a meaningful part in the local community and of course excellent teaching and pastoral care.
This school has a staff body, governors, parents, a foundation, trustees and fantastic pupils who want to ensure that this happens.
I am proud to be leading West Buckland School, and I look forward to welcoming you to our wonderful campus, whether you are a current or a prospective parent, to find out more about us.
Please keep an eye out for upcoming events and opportunities to visit the school. Or contact the school to make an appointment to come in to meet me; I can promise that you will be made most welcome.
Helen Lowe, Head of School
Our remarkable campus
Described as “a gem of a school in an outstanding location” by the Good Schools Guide, West Buckland School, founded in 1858, is set on 100 acres of stunning countryside near the Atlantic coast. Recent investments of over ยฃ14 million have transformed our campus, blending traditional charm with modern facilities. This environment inspires students to excel academically, culturally, and athletically, revealing their unique excellence
Latest News
Follow West Buckland School on social media for our latest news and pupil achievements.
๐โโ๏ธ๐โโ๏ธInter House Cross Country
Our first Inter House Cross Country races of the year took place this week, with both our Junior and Senior students taking to the course to represent their Houses.
From our youngest Senior students through to our oldest, it was great to see so many students getting involved and giving their best for their House ๐๐โโ๏ธ๐โโ๏ธ
Well done to everyone who took part - some great running from all involved!
Next Monday, itโs the turn of the Inters Cross Country ๐ช๐ผ
#WBSSport #TeamWBS #InterHouse #CrossCountry
๐ Girlsโ 1st VI - Indoor Hockey
A great day of indoor hockey for our Girlsโ 1st VI, who travelled to Taunton School yesterday for a day of fast paced and competitive hockey.
๐ฅCongratulations to the girls on finishing 2nd overall and qualifying for the next round! ๐๐
Well done to the whole team on a strong performance, and the very best of luck for the next round! ๐ช
#WBSSport #TeamWBS #IndoorHockey #WBSHockey #Hockey
๐ Every Sixth Form journey is different. Where could yours take you?
As we look ahead to our Sixth Form Open Evening on Wednesday 7 October from 6.30pm, hear directly from four current Sixth Form students about their experiences at West Buckland.
From pursuing ambitious goals and discovering new interests to building confidence for life beyond school, their stories offer an authentic insight into Sixth Form life at WBS.
Read their experiences, find out why West Buckland could be the right choice for you, and register to join us at our Open Evening.
Find out more - follow the link in our bio โ
๐๐ฅWest Tournament - Indoor Hockey
Yesterday, our U18 boys travelled to Clifton College for Round 1 of the West Tournament Indoor Hockey.
A fantastic afternoon of indoor hockey, with WBS finishing 3rd overall!๐๐
The team secured a win against Queenโs College, drew with Prior Park and were narrowly beaten by just one goal by Clifton College and a loss to King Edwardโs School, Bath.
Some really strong performances throughout the afternoon and plenty to be pleased with. Well done to all the boys! ๐ช๐
#WBSSport #TeamWBS #IndoorHockey #WBSHockey
๐๐ฎ๐ชAoife Represents Netball Ireland
Earlier this year, Aoife was selected for the Netball Ireland U19 long squad and has been travelling to Dublin every 3-4 weeks for training.
This weekend, Aoife travelled to Glasgow for a two day representative camp at the Glasgow International Arena, where she took part in training matches against Scotlandโs U19 and U21 squads.
Well done, Aoife, and congratulations on representing Netball Ireland. We are very proud of you! ๐
#WBSSport #TeamWBS #Netball #NetballIreland #GirlsInSport @netballireland
๐โโ๏ธ๐โโ๏ธNorth Devon Cross Country League
Yesterday morning saw the first race of the North Devon Cross Country League, held at Kingsley School.
There was a strong representation from our Prep School, with our runners putting in a fantastic effort across the races. Well done to all our Prep pupils who took part, with some excellent performances and a fantastic effort from everyone ๐คฉ
We also had runners representing WBS in the Senior races, with Sam A and Matilda P both winning their age categories๐
Well done to everyone who represented WBS, and good luck for the next round at Shebbear College!
#WBSSport #TeamWBS #CrossCountry #NorthDevonCrossCountry #WBSPrep
๐ WBS Boarding Diaries
There has been plenty for our boarders to enjoy recently, with a packed programme of activities bringing everyone together both on and off campus.
The past few weeks have included a lively karaoke evening in Boyer, where boarders took to the microphone and sang the night away alongside Mrs Lowe, as well as a drama trip to London to see some fantastic productions.
Over the weekend, boarders represented the School in rugby and hockey fixtures, while others enjoyed a trip to Braunton for Paint a Pot, followed by fish and chips at the famous Squires and a browse through the town`s independent and charity shops. Sunday brought a trip to Barnstaple before a relaxing evening back in boarding.
This week also saw the welcome return of a boarding favourite: Wacky Wednesdays in Parkers. These much-loved evenings give boarders the chance to take a break from busy schedules, spend time with friends and enjoy some friendly fun together. The first event of the term was one of the most eagerly anticipated, Build Your Own Pizza Night, with the wood-fired ovens fired up and plenty of creative toppings on offer.
Most importantly, it has been another wonderful few weeks filled with friendship, laughter and the shared experiences that make life in boarding so special.
@bsaboarding @boardingschoolsnetwork
โจ Moments That Made This Week โจ
From British Eventing brilliance and inspiring success in the saddle, to getting stuck in at Gardening Club and exploring new stories at the Appledore Book Festival, it`s been another fantastic week at West Buckland.
And that`s only the beginning! From classrooms and sports fields to creative spaces and outdoor adventures, our students have been making the most of every opportunity. ๐
#WestBucklandSchool #MomentsThatMadeThisWeek #SchoolLife #OpportunityAdventureSuccess
โจ Discover Prep at West Buckland School! โจ
Is your child currently in Years 4-6? Join us on 13th October for our exciting Prep Experience Day and discover what makes life at West Buckland so special.
Pupils will enjoy a fun-filled day of engaging lessons, hands-on activities, new friendships and plenty of opportunities to explore our beautiful campus and outstanding facilities.
๐
13th October
๐ 08:45 - 16:00
๐ West Buckland School
Give your child the chance to experience our welcoming community, inspiring teachers and the exciting opportunities that await.
๐ Spaces are limited, so book your place today via the QR code or click the link in our bio.
#WestBucklandSchool #PrepSchool #ExperienceDay #Years4to6 #NorthDevonSchools #IndependentSchool #FutureStartsHere #WestBucklandPrep
๐
Fixtures for the Week Ahead
Another busy week for WBS Sport!
๐ Indoor Hockey rounds begin
๐ Senior & Junior House Runs
๐ U14 North Devon Schools Netball Tournament
Looking ahead to Super Saturday next weekend, weโll be hosting the North Devon Clubs Rugby Festival, while our girlsโ hockey teams take on Shebbear College.
๐ Barnstaple parkrun โ meet Miss Rickard at Rock Park, 8:45am.
#WBSSport #TeamWBS #WBSWeeklyFixtures #Hockey #Rugby #Netball #CrossCountry #IndoorHockey
๐ Devon Cricket Awards Evening
The annual Devon Cricket Awards Evening marked the close of the 2026 Devon Cricket season, where Issie was nominated for U18 Girls Bowler of the Year.
She also received special recognition for her outstanding achievements this season, which included two impressive five-wicket hauls.
Well done, Issie! ๐๐
#WBSSport #TeamWBS #DevonCricket
๐ Year 7 Assessment & Activity Day ๐
Thinking about joining West Buckland School for Year 7?
Come and spend the day with us on 28 October from 10am, experiencing life at West Buckland first-hand. Meet future classmates, take part in our Year 7 assessment activity, explore our beautiful campus, and enjoy an afternoon packed with exciting and engaging activities.
A fantastic opportunity to discover what makes West Buckland such a special place to learn, grow and belong.
๐
28 October 2026
โฐ 10:00 - 15:30
Sign up using the link in our bio.
Want to find out more? Contact our admissions team: [email protected]
๐ South West Winter League | Round 2
Our 1st team travelled to Wells Cathedral School last night for their second game of the South West Winter League.
A close and highly competitive match, which was physical from start to finish. WBS stayed composed under pressure, particularly in the final stages, to come away with an 8 point win.
Well played to the team on a hard fought match, and thank you to Wells Cathedral School for hosting us.
Next up is Round 3, with the team travelling to Millfield.
#WBSSport #TeamWBS #Basketball #WBSBasketball #SouthWestLeague
๐ Huge congratulations to Emily on an outstanding eventing season!
At just 12 years old and in her first year competing in British Eventing, Emily qualified for the British Eventing Regional National Qualifier at 90cm, a remarkable achievement in itself.
Competing against a large field of predominantly adult riders, all of whom had qualified to be there, Emily finished on her dressage score to secure an impressive 9th place, with only four points separating 1st and 12th.
This success follows a fantastic 2nd place finish at the Pony Club Regional Eventing Championships at Bicton in August, and an incredible season that has seen Emily place in the top 10 at every event she has participated in.
We are immensely proud of everything she has achieved. Well done, Emily!
#BritishEventing #EquestrianSuccess #Eventing #TeamWBS @britisheventing
๐ Midweek Hockey Fixtures
A busy couple of days for WBS hockey.
Last night, our 1st and 2nd teams were both in action against Blundellโs, with our 1st team travelling away and our 2nd team playing at home. Two competitive matches and great games to watch. Well played to all the girls.
Today, our U12 and U13 teams welcomed Blundellโs to WBS. Some really positive performances from all four teams, and it was particularly pleasing to see pupils who are new to hockey this term continuing to develop and grow in confidence as they play more matches.
Well played, girls! ๐
#WBSSport #TeamWBS #Hockey #WBSHockey
๐โโ๏ธ๐โโ๏ธ First Gala of the Term!
Our U13, U15 and U18 swimmers travelled to Exeter School on Monday for their first gala of the term.
For many of the swimmers, it was their first experience of competitive swimming for the school, making it a great opportunity to put their training into practice. The team have been working hard in PE and co-curricular sessions, making the most of our on site pool for regular training.
There were some excellence performances across all age groups.
Well done to everyone who represented the school - weโre looking forward to the next round!
#WBSSport #TeamWBS #WBSSwimming #Swimming
A huge thank you to everyone who visited us on Open Day! It was wonderful to welcome so many families to West Buckland School.
Interested in Sixth Form? Our Sixth Form Open Evening takes place on Wednesday 7 October from 6.30pm. Book your place now via the link in our bio โ
Big ambitions start here.
Whether your goal is university, an apprenticeship, a professional career or something entirely unique, West Buckland Sixth Form provides the support, opportunities and encouragement to help you achieve it.
Come and meet our students, explore our facilities and discover what makes Sixth Form at West Buckland so special.
โจ Register now for our Sixth Form Open Evening. Your Future Starts Here.
๐
7th October 18:30
๐https://westbuckland.com/wbs-sixth-form/ or find the link in bio.
#WestBucklandSixthForm #AspireAchieveSucceed #OpenEvening #SixthFormLife
โจ A brand-new Christmas tradition is coming to North Devon!โจ
Join us for the West Buckland Christmas Drone Spectacular featuring: ๐ A breathtaking festive drone show hosted by Afterglow!
๐ถ Live performances from the Chivenor Military Ladies Choir
๐ Charity Christmas Tree Festival supporting The Royal Marines Charity
๐๏ธ Festive market stalls
๐ Delicious food and drink
๐จ Arts, crafts and family activities
๐
Meet Santa, wreath making, face painting and more!
An unforgettable evening of Christmas magic for the whole family.
๐โจ Early Bird Tickets Now Available! โจ๐
๐๏ธ Book your tickets today: www.tickettailor.com/events/wbs/2442232 or click the link in our bio.
#ChristmasDroneSpectacular #NorthDevon #ChristmasInDevon #festivefun
@militaryladieschoirofficial @afterglowdroneshows @thermcharity
Would you like to showcase your business at one of North Devon`s most exciting new festive events? DM us for an information pack.
๐Building Bright Futures
Our Year 13 students enjoyed an inspiring Careers Day, gaining valuable advice and practical skills as they prepare for university, apprenticeships and employment.
From a practical workshop with Mr Lowe on interview skills, personal statements and self-presentation, to invaluable insights into international prospects from Cristina Bain of The University Guys and an inspiring talk from Pamela Woolcock on embracing unexpected career opportunities, students gained valuable advice and encouragement as they prepared for their next steps beyond Sixth Form.
A huge thank you to our guest speakers and staff for helping make the day such a success.
Curious about Sixth Form at West Buckland School? Join us for our Open Evening on Wednesday 7th October from 6.30pm - sign up with the link in our bio now โ
๐๐ A Busy Weekend of WBS Sport
Another busy weekend for WBS Sport, with over 150 students representing WBS across Friday and Saturday.
Friday Night Lights saw our girlsโ 1st team take on Exeter, before Saturday brought more hockey against Exeter, both home and away. Our boys also had rugby fixtures against Mount Kelly and Shebbear College, with teams from our 1st XV through to U12s taking to the field.
Well done to everyone who represented WBS at the weekend! ๐
#TeamWBS #WBSSport #FridayNightLights #SuperSaturday
๐ WBS Boarding Diaries: Sea Safari Adventure!
Last weekend, our boarders headed to Ilfracombe for an unforgettable sea safari, exploring North Devonโs spectacular coastline and uncovering the stories and history behind its dramatic cliffs. Bathed in September sunshine, it was the perfect day to take to the water and experience the beauty of our local area.
#WBSBoardingDiaries @boardingschoolsnetwork @bsaboarding
WBS Edge โ Behind the Game.
Meet Mr Carr, Head of Athletic Development at West Buckland School, as he shares his approach to building strong, capable and confident young athletes. Working with students from Prep through to Sixth Form, his focus is on developing the physical foundations that support sporting success, lifelong fitness and overall wellbeing.
At WBS, athletic development is about more than performance. Through expert coaching and age-appropriate training, students build strength, resilience, movement skills and self-confidence, gaining the tools they need to thrive in sport and beyond.
You have the Edge.
#WBSSport
โจ The Moments That Made This Week โจ
๐Open Day. ๐งโ๐ซ Maths Olympiad. ๐น Sinfonia Concert. ๐ซ Barbecue. And so much more!
These are just some of the moments that made this week at West Buckland School. A week full of achievement, creativity and opportunity. Roll on next week!
#ThisWeekAtWBS #WestBucklandSchool #MomentsThatMatter
๐ต Calling all little music lovers! ๐ต
Join us for a very special Mini Minds Meet: Musical Madness!
Led by our wonderful Head of Music, Mr Carter, this fun-filled session will be packed with music, singing, movement and musical discovery, giving little learners the chance to explore rhythm, sound and creativity in a relaxed and friendly environment.
๐
Tuesday 6th October
โฐ 10:30 - 12:00
๐ง For children aged 2-5
๐๏ธ FREE to attend
Come along, make some noise, and enjoy a morning of musical fun!
Book your place today: westbuckland.com/mini-minds-meet
#MiniMindsMeet #WestBucklandSchool #EarlyYears #NorthDevon #MusicalMadness #PreschoolActivities #ToddlerFun #LittleLearners ๐ถ๐น๐ฅ
๐
Fixtures for the Week Ahead
Another busy week ahead for WBS Sport, with teams in action across hockey, rugby, basketball and netball.
We wish all our players and coaches the very best of luck for the week ahead.
#TeamWBS #WBSSport #WBSWeeklyFixtures #Fixtures #Hockey #Rugby #Basketball #Netball
Hola. Bonjour. Guten Tag. Ciao. ๐
Our linguists are getting ready for The European Day of Languages on 26th September and have a special Languages Challenge lined up.
Students will take on a series of language-themed challenges over the weekend, putting their linguistic skills and cultural knowledge to the test. The most impressive entries will be rewarded with House Points from the MFL Department!
How will you celebrate the power of languages?
#EuropeanDayOfLanguages #LanguageChallenge #Linguists #GlobalCitizenship @britishcouncil
๐ Excellent results are expected. Exceptional opportunities make the difference.
Join us at our Sixth Form Open Evening at 6.30pm on Wednesday 7th October and discover how West Buckland combines academic success with inspiring teaching, outstanding facilities and a wealth of opportunities beyond the classroom.
Meet our students, talk to our teachers and discover a Sixth Form that opens doors, broadens horizons and prepares students for successful futures.
Book your place via the link in our bio now โ
๐ถ A wonderful evening celebrating music, community and a much-loved local tradition.
It was a pleasure to see so many members of the West Buckland School community involved in the North Devon Sinfonia`s Last Night of the Proms concert at Barnstaple Pannier Market on Saturday evening.
With WBS staff and students among the performers, and Head of Music Mr Carter conducting, the evening was a fantastic showcase of musical talent and community spirit. From much-loved classics to the stirring finale, the concert provided a fitting start to the Barnstaple Carnival weekend and brought audiences together in celebration.
Congratulations to everyone involved in making this cherished annual event such a success. We are incredibly proud to see members of our school community involved in one of North Devon`s most popular musical traditions.
#NorthDevonSinfonia #LastNightOfTheProms #Barnstaple #Community #MusicEducation #ProudToBeWBS @northdevonsinfonia @northdevoncouncil @barnstaplepanniermarket
โฝ๏ธU8 & U9 Mixed Football
It was great to see our U8 and U9 boys and girls take to the football pitch yesterday for a friendly fixture against Shebbear College.
There were some impressive skills on display throughout the afternoon, alongside excellent teamwork and plenty of enthusiasm from all involved. It was fantastic to see the players growing in confidence and enjoying the opportunity to represent WBS.
Well done, everyone! ๐
#WBSSport #TeamWBS #Football #GirlsFootball #WBSPrep
๐๐East Devon Netball Success
A huge congratulations to Summer and Frannie, who were both successful at the East Devon Netball Academy trials in June!
After earning their places through a highly competitive selection process, the girls have begun their Academy training journey at Exeter College.
This is a fantastic achievement and a testament to their hard work, dedication, and commitment to netball.
Well done, Summer and Frannie! ๐๐๐
#WBSSport #NetballSuccess #TeamWBS #EastDevonNetball #NetballAcademy
๐๐U11 Hockey & Rugby Festival
On Saturday, we hosted our U11 Hockey and Rugby Festivals, welcoming teams from Collegiate School, Queenโs College and Wellington School.
It was a busy morning of match play, with plenty of opportunities for the pupils to get involved, enjoy their sport and put their skills into practice.
A big thank you to all the visiting teams for joining us - we hope you enjoyed the morning as much as we did! ๐คฉ
#WBSSport #TeamWBS #U11Hockey #U11Rugby #WBSPrep
โต Success on the Water for WBS Sailors!
Over the summer, several WBS students took part in Pelican Week at the North Devon Yacht Club, an annual three-day dinghy racing event for under-18s.
There was plenty to celebrate, with Jack L (Year 9) finishing runner-up in the Open Class after nine fiercely contested races. In the Second Class, Ross L and Rory O`C (Year 7) delivered a dominant performance, winning every race to secure first place. Meanwhile, Kit L was recognised for his outstanding contribution as Best Crew for the Week.
Congratulations to all our sailors for representing WBS so brilliantly and taking part in what was a fantastic week of racing, teamwork and achievement on the water.
@northdevonyachtclub
What a fantastic start to the year for our boarding community! ๐
A competitive `Minute to Win It` challenge, trips exploring Lynmouth, shopping in Exeter, before catching waves at Croyde Bay, our boarders have been making the most of every opportunity.
Midweek fun continued with a well-supported bingo night!
There`s plenty more for our Boarders to look forward to, including a Sea Safari and a trip to Barnstaple. Here`s to another exciting term ahead! โจ
โจ The Moments That Made This Week โจ
๐จ Art Attack. ๐ Basketball. ๐ Rugby. โต Sailing success. And so much more!
These are just some of the moments that made this week at West Buckland School. A week full of achievement, creativity and opportunity. Roll on next week!
#ThisWeekAtWBS #WestBucklandSchool #MomentsThatMatter
๐๏ธ Weekly Fixtures
Another busy week of sport at WBS, with a number of midweek fixtures taking place for our prep school pupils.
We also have Friday Night Lights hockey to look forward to, followed by another Super Saturday with our rugby and hockey teams in action.
Good luck to all our teams!
#WBSSport #TeamWBS #FridayNightLights #SuperSaturday #Hockey #Rugby
๐ WBS Basketball | Winter League Begins
Last night saw our WBS Basketball Team take to the court at home for their first game of the South West Winter League.
A fantastic start to the league, with some outstanding individual performances and a strong team display throughout. A special mention to Wayne, Hayden and Louis, who were our top scorers on the evening.
Well led by captain Hayden, the team came away with a well earned win and plenty of positives to take forward๐
Best of luck to the team in two weeks time when they head away to Wells Cathedral School for their next league fixture.
#WBSSport #TeamWBS #Basketball #SouthWestWinterLeague
๐ Our strongest GCSE results in four years are just one part of the story.
Behind every grade is exceptional teaching, individual support, extraordinary opportunities and a school community that encourages every pupil to thrive.
Join us at our Open Day on Saturday 19th September and discover what makes West Buckland different. Book your place now via the link in our bio โ
๐๐ฅTwo Touch Challenge!
After the boys took on the challenge last year, it was the girlsโ turn as our Senior Girlsโ Hockey players get their season underway!
The girls (and their coaches) stepped up to showcase their hockey skills, with some fantastic attempts along the way! ๐๐
We look forward to seeing our 1st and 2nd Hockey teams in action this season, competing across both Astro and Indoor Hockey.
A promising season ahead! ๐๐
#WBSSport #TeamWBS #Hockey #TwoTouchChallenge #GirlsHockey
A thriving coeducational independent day and boarding school in Devon for boys and girls aged 3-18, located on a beautiful rural campus between Barnstaple and Exmoor.
