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 the Head
“The highest reward for your toil is not what you get for it but what you become by it.” John Ruskin
Welcome to West Buckland School!
Growing up is inevitable, but how you do it is a choice. At West Buckland, we believe in nurturing our students’ growth through exploration and generosity, helping them become the leaders of tomorrow.
Learning at the Heart of Our Education
At West Buckland, learning is at the core of everything we do. Our curriculum is designed to help students discover more about their subjects, their environment, and themselves. We value who your children become during their time here, not just what they achieve. Our students are encouraged to challenge their knowledge and dreams through a variety of ambitious cultural, intellectual, sporting, outdoor, and service programmes. This holistic approach allows them to develop into balanced, accomplished individuals who can make a difference in the world.
Unlocking True Potential through core values
By embracing resilience, honesty, kindness, respect, and curiosity, we aim to unlock each student’s true potential. Our inclusive and ever-exploring community provides the perfect environment for them to flourish. We emphasize the importance of having a sense of duty, an awareness of right and wrong. We encourage our students to be ambitious, with a clear sense of purpose and a balanced view of life. They resist the temptation to play it safe or follow the crowd. Instead, they dare to blaze new trails and, through reflective appraisal, change expectations. Our students are not just preparing for jobs that have yet to be invented; they are poised to create and lead those jobs.
Visit Us
You are warmly invited to visit West Buckland School and meet the inspiring individuals who are shaping the future. We look forward to welcoming you to our community.
Phillip Stapleton, Head
Laura’s Testimonial: A Term at West Buckland School
Laura, a student from Spain, spent a term at West Buckland School and described it as life-changing. She formed lasting friendships, gained independence and enjoyed exciting weekend activities like surfing and quad biking. Find out what made her experience so unforgettable!
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CCF Mess Dinner
West Buckland CCF proudly hosted its first Mess Dinner in nearly three years, bringing together cadets, parents and special guests for a memorable evening. With inspiring speeches, promotions and awards, the event celebrated the dedication, achievements and teamwork of our cadets in style.
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South West Computational Thinking Cup
On 22nd November, over 100 students from across the South West gathered at Millfield to flex their problem-solving muscles in the South West Computational Thinking Cup. West Buckland School proudly entered six teams showcasing teamwork, determination and creativity in tackling a range of challenging puzzles.
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Boarding Activities
This term has been an exciting whirlwind of activities for our boarders at West Buckland School. From adventurous outdoor pursuits to cosy evenings of creativity and connection, our students have embraced every opportunity to bond, grow and make lasting memories. Here’s a snapshot of the incredible experiences that have defined this term for our boarding community.
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Strengthening Educational and Business Ties
As the 170th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and the U.K. approaches, and following the recent encouragement from Thai Commerce Minister Khun Pichai Naripthaphan for U.K. businesses to invest in Thailand, it was both an honour and privilege for Rob Paler, Director of Education and Global Partnerships at West Buckland School, to participate in the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) mission to Southeast Asia.
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Crafting Nutritious, Seasonal Meals at West Buckland School
At West Buckland School, we’re proud to offer nutritious, delicious meals prepared by our head chef, Andy, and the team at Holroyd Howe. With over 10 years of experience, Andy is passionate about using local, seasonal ingredients and creating inclusive menus that cater to all dietary needs. Student feedback plays a key role in our menu planning, ensuring every meal is enjoyed.
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From West Buckland School to UCSD
Oscar’s time at West Buckland School gave him the tools to succeed at UC San Diego, from academic rigour to the independence needed for university life. His story reflects how WBS equips students for life beyond school, opening doors to global opportunities and challenges.
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Congratulations to Dasha on her exceptional A-level results
Dasha, one of our outstanding international students, joined us in Year 12 after fleeing the conflict in Ukraine. Despite the challenges of adapting to a new country and language, she excelled in academics and leadership, earning top A-level results and several prestigious awards.
Read MoreOur 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 £14 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
Midweek Action! ✨
Last night, our U14 and U15 teams had the pleasure of travelling to Kingsley School for a friendly midweek match. A fantastic opportunity for some valuable matchplay!
A huge thanks to kingsleyschool for hosting us.
#Netball #MidweekMatch #U14 #U15 #WBSAchievers #WBSSport #TeamSpirit
🎉 West Buckland Challenge: Junior Quiz for Year 7 & 8 Students 🎉
On Friday, our young scholars showcased their academic prowess in the West Buckland Challenge! 🏆 The atmosphere was electric as Sixth Form quiz masters Ed, Charlie, Ryan, Bella, Chloe, and Amy led the event with enthusiasm.
Final Standings:
1st - Grenville
2nd - Brereton
3rd - Fortescue
4th - Courtenay
🌟 Congratulations to all participants and a big thank you to our quiz masters and Mrs. Hamilton for organizing this fantastic event!
The Intermediate Challenge for Year 9-11 is to be held on Friday 14th February! 📚
🏎️ Our West Buckland boarders had a blast at the Haynes Motor Museum!
They loved the Red Room with the Lamborghini Countach, though Mr. Boyle fancied the Dark Blue V12 E-Type Jaguar instead! A day of history, innovation, and fun!
#HaynesMotorMuseum #ClassicCars #wbsboarding
🎶 Excitement is building here at West Buckland School as we prepare to welcome the incredible musical talent that is Stuart Pendred!
Stuart’s talent is diverse and impressive. Having appeared in Les Miserables and other musicals, he also has an impressive reputation singing opera.
He has performed with Sting, Lionel Richie, Beyonce, Mariah Carey and Westlife and has sung in numerous venues around the world. He was part of the trio "Tricolore" who were competitors in 2005 to be the United Kingdom`s Eurovision entry with their song "Brand New Day" which Pendred co-wrote.
🎟️ Tickets are available now for his performance at West Buckland School, happening this Thursday 24th Jan.
🏆 A huge congratulations to Luke S for his tremendous achievement in hockey!
Last Sunday, Luke played with the Ashmoor U18 hockey team in an intense and gruelling pool of matches with Epsom HC in National Finals. Epsom had a team with six International players.
Despite the challenges, Luke and the Ashmoor team showed true grit and determination, and triumphed to become National U18 Champions!
Congratulations to Luke and the whole Ashmoor team!🥇
#wbssport #AshmoorHC #resilience #courage #teamwork
South Lambs Trials at Sherborne School 🏉
On Sunday, Sam B, Semesa Q, Will B, and Henry C represented West Buckland at the South Lambs trials held at Sherborne School. The boys had the opportunity to train and compete alongside other talented pupils from independent schools across the South.
A special congratulations to Semesa and Will, who were both selected to represent the South in matches against other regions at Harrow School this coming Sunday! 🎉
We are incredibly proud of all 4 boys for their dedication and effort. Best of luck to Will and Semesa for this weekend🤞🏼
#SouthLambsTrials #TeamWork #RugbyJourney #wbssport @lambsrugby
📢 Join us for the Annual OWBA vs WBS Phoenix Society Debate!
🗓️ Date: Friday, 24th January
🕡 Time: From 6:30 PM
📍 Location: Karslake Hall
Current Phoenix Society members, their families, and OWBs are warmly invited to this exciting event. Enjoy delicious cheese boards and refreshments while engaging in stimulating debates.
🎟️ Book your tickets now: https://owba.westbuckland.com/event/owba-vs-wbs-phoenix-society-debate-2
🎶 The acclaimed baritone/bass Stuart Pendred will be giving a series of masterclasses and choir workshops at WBS next week and we are fortunate enough that he will be giving a recital with Caroline Clipsham (piano) on Thursday 23 January in the Memorial Hall at 18:30.
PLEASE NOTE: No ticket required for WBS students and staff!
🎟️ Use the URL or the QR code to purchase your ticket in advance.
Join us in celebrating the success of these amazing students for their outstanding sporting performance in fencing at the weekend! 👏
🏅 As dedicated members of the Barnstaple Fencing club, they took part in the Devon Junior Fencing championships last Sunday held in Exeter and walked away with a clutch of medals:
Harriet: Silver in Girls U15 Foil
Matilda: Gold in Girls U13 Sabre
Arthur: Gold in Boys U15 Sabre
Esme: Silver in Sabre
Congratulations on your achievements!
#barnstaplefencingclub #barnstaplefencing #devonjuniorfencing #westbucklandschool #fencing #juniorfencing
If you missed it in the Newsletter last week, please don’t miss this:
⛷️ There is limited time to sign up for the Ski Trip that is happening in February 2026. Excitingly, it is now open to Year 7 students, as well as Years 8 and 9.
If your child is in Year 7-9 now, sign-up is through the Parent Portal.
🗓️ This will close on 24th January, in just over one week! Sign up now to secure your child’s place.
Previous students say:
💬 ‘I traversed one mountain and was racing the instructor, which was great fun. The instructor was really nice.’
💬 ‘On the first day, we started on training slopes. Then after lunch, we went onto the mountains in our groups. I loved it!’
#wbsmiddle #SkiTrip2026 #snowday
🌟 Easter Revision Course 2025 🌟
Whether you’re a student at West Buckland School or another school, we’re excited to invite you to an intensive 4-day learning experience designed to boost your exam prep and give you that extra edge as you head into your final exams.
📅 Dates: 7-10 April 2025
🏠 Options: Boarding or Day
📍 Location: West Buckland School
🎯 Goal: Focused revision, expert tuition, and interactive workshops to build your confidence and knowledge in key subjects.
This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow students across the region, receive targeted support, and refine your skills in a dynamic, collaborative environment. Whether you`re looking to deepen your understanding or get those last-minute tips, we’ve got you covered!
🔗 Sign up now: Tap the link in our bio for more!
#GCSEPreparation #HotHouseLearning #GCSE2025 #wbsmiddle
Ready to unlock your future?
Find your perfect fit at West Buckland School —a place where learning is innovative, tech meets creativity and every student receives the support they need to thrive. From an exciting curriculum, creative clubs and careers advice, it’s all here.
📅 Curious? Join us at our Sixth Form Open Evening on 28th January and discover how we can help you reach your goals.
We have a few remaining sports scholarships!
🔗 Sign up today! Click on the link in our bio!
#SixthForm #FutureReady #TechInEducation #CareerSupport #OpenEvening
A Future of Possibilities Starts Here!
📚 Curious minds flourish in the right environment—one that nurtures discovery, creativity, and growth. Join us for the Year 7 Assessment Morning on 18th January and make the move to West Buckland School, where students are encouraged to explore their passions and embrace new opportunities.
Give your child the chance to thrive in a supportive and inspiring school community.
🔗 Sign up today: https://westbuckland.com/year-7-assessment/
#FutureOfLearning #Year7 #AssessmentMorning #ExploreYourPassion #WestBucklandSchool #InspiringEducation #GrowthAndDiscovery #CuriousMinds #EducationalOpportunities #SupportingSuccess #NewBeginnings
🌟 JOIN OUR TEAM: 🌟
West Buckland School are looking for an Exams Officer to join this well-established independent school set in the foothills of Exmoor and the North Devon coastline.
The main purpose of the role is to administer all aspects of the examination process; knowledge of JCQ and awarding body regulations required.
This is mainly a part-time appointment in term time, with full-time work required at key times of the academic year.
💼 Further information and application process can be found through Linktr.ee in our bio under `Vacancies`!
🎶 Exciting News! 🎶
We’re thrilled to announce a new choral project at West Buckland School! Starting in the Spring term, we’ll begin rehearsals for the world premiere of Requiem Aeternam, a stunning new composition by our very own Mr Dominic Carter.
The premiere performance will take place on Saturday, 5th July, and we’d love for you to be part of this historic event!
📅 First Rehearsal:
🗓️ Wednesday, 15th January
⏰ 7:00 PM
📍 Memorial Hall
This project is open to all singers—whether you’re an experienced vocalist or a beginner, we’d be delighted to welcome you! Copies of the composition, published by Halstan & Co, are available for purchase.
For more details or to sign up, please contact our Director of Music at [email protected].
Let’s make history together! 🌟 #WestBucklandMusic #ChoralProject #RequiemAeternam #MusicAtWBS #wbsmusic
🎓 Ready to Ace Your Exams?
Join our Easter Revision Course from 7th–10th April and give your GCSE preparation the boost it deserves!
📚 What’s on offer?
Expert-led sessions in key subjects.
Small group sizes for personalised support.
Study in the stunning surroundings of our North Devon campus.
💬 Don’t just take our word for it:
"The small group sizes meant I could ask questions and really understand tricky topics. It made such a difference!"
📅 Limited spaces available—book your spot today!
🔗 Click the link in our bio to register.
#EasterRevision #GCSEExams #ExamSuccess #WestBucklandSchool #StudySmart
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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.
