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
“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
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 investors’ 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 school’s 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 – 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 £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
Latest News
Follow West Buckland School on social media for our latest news and pupil achievements.
🌟 Good luck, Matt! 🌟
Matt, a valued member of the wider West Buckland School community, is taking on an extraordinary challenge in aid of three cancer charities: @cr_uk, @theurologyfoundation and @braintumoursupport.
Matt is running 500 miles around the entire Devon and Cornwall South West Coast Path – an epic journey involving a total ascent of more than three times the height of Mount Everest!
This remarkable challenge is in memory of two much-loved colleagues who were both tragically lost to cancer after courageous battles, leaving behind young families. Matt has already raised an incredible £50,000+ for these important causes.
We wish Matt every success as he embarks on this inspiring feat of endurance, determination and fundraising.
If you would like to support Matt or read more about his story, please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/team/matt-field
#WestBucklandSchool #Community #Fundraising #CancerResearch #SWCoastPath
⛵ Congratulations to James!
Year 8 James C has successfully completed an RYA course and assessment, qualifying as an Assistant Sailing Instructor.
This summer, he is looking forward to working at North Devon Yacht Club, where he will help teach both adults and children how to sail.
What a fantastic achievement and an exciting opportunity. We wish James every success as he shares his passion for sailing and inspires the next generation of sailors! 👏
Join the West Buckland School Team!
We are currently seeking a Cleaner / Porter to join our friendly and hardworking team.
Set within our beautiful North Devon campus, this is an exciting opportunity to play an important role in ensuring our school environment remains welcoming, safe and well-presented for pupils, staff and visitors.
If you take pride in your work and enjoy being part of a supportive community, we would love to hear from you.
📍 West Buckland School, North Devon
🔗 westbuckland.com/about/vacancies/
#ThrowbackThursday
This week, we’re not looking back very far at all: just to the final day of term and our wonderful Speech Day, where we celebrated the fantastic achievements of our students.
We were delighted to welcome our West Buckland School Archivist, Mr Berwick Coates, as our Guest of Honour. He delivered a thoughtful and inspiring speech, and the clip above shares just a small glimpse of his reflections.
Missed Speech Day or would like to watch it again? Head over to MSP to rewatch the full event and celebrate the moments that made the day so special.
#SpeechDay #WestBucklandSchool #WBSMiddle #WBSSixthForm #SchoolCommunity
A huge congratulations to Bode, who recently completed his first-ever @croyde_ocean_triathlon ! 🏊🚴🏃
Bode took on this amazing challenge to raise money for @barnstaplerfc🏉, helping to fund next season`s rugby tour, while also supporting the fantastic environmental charity @earthactionnorthdevon 🌍💚.
Not only did Bode conquer this mammoth challenge, but he was also awarded:
🏅 Youngest Competitor
🏅 Raised over £1,000 for these two fantastic causes!
We are incredibly proud of Bode`s determination, resilience, and community spirit. 👏✨
If you would like to learn more about Bode`s inspiring journey or support his fundraising, please visit:
💙 justgiving.com/page/bode-burrows-1
Well done, Bode!
#NorthDevon #MakingADifference #WellDoneBode 🏊🚴🏃💙🌍
📋Geography River Investigation
Our Year 8 geographers headed to the beautiful River Barle at Simonsbath on 2nd July to investigate the characteristics of the upper course of a river.
Students carried out a range of fieldwork activities while observing how the river channel and surrounding landscape change along its course. They demonstrated excellent teamwork and applied classroom learning to a real-world environment, developing valuable geographical enquiry and data collection skills.
A fantastic day of fieldwork in Exmoor, with students showing enthusiasm, curiosity and resilience throughout the investigation.
🏑 Percy Represents the South West in National Hockey Showcase
Congratulations to Percy F, who was selected to represent the South West as part of the West Panthers Regional Championship Team.
Recently, Percy travelled to Nottingham to compete in the U13 Regional Hockey Festival, where the team enjoyed an outstanding tournament, losing just two matches throughout the competition.
Representing the South West at a regional festival is a fantastic achievement, and the event provided a great opportunity to compete against some of the country`s top young hockey players while gaining valuable experience.
Well done, Percy - a brilliant achievement and an experience to be proud of! 👏
🎉 Final boarding round-up of a brilliant year in Boyer House!
Year 10 boarder Augustin H introduced his fellow boarders to the card game Flip 7, which quickly evolved into a Boyer House competition, complete with a prize for the winner. Demonstrating impressive skill and strategy, Augustin swept aside the competition and claimed victory himself!
A spontaneous karaoke session also proved to be a highlight, with some surprise guest appearances from Mr and Mrs Lowe and Mrs Connelly, who couldn’t resist joining in. Their participation delighted the boarders and added plenty of laughter to the evening.
The term ended on a memorable note, with Year 10 pupil Grace B sharing her piano talents on the final morning in Boyer House before everyone headed off to school and Speech Day.
A wonderful way to round off another fantastic year of boarding!
@boardingschoolsnetwork @bsaboarding
🏏 Celebrating an Outstanding Achievement for Issie O! 🌟
In a recent Devon Under-18 Girls Cricket match, Issie produced a sensational display of spin bowling. After Somerset had made a steady start and looked well placed, she showcased excellent control and variation, claiming a superb five-wicket haul against a strong batting line-up.
Her landmark fifth wicket was a fitting reward for an exceptional performance, completing a memorable five-for and cementing her place as one of the standout performers of the competition. While the game didn`t go their way overall, there was still much to be proud of.
👏 A fantastic individual achievement and a spell to be proud of. Congratulations, Issie!
☀️🎉 That’s a wrap on another fantastic year at West Buckland! 🎉☀️
From classrooms to playing fields, performances to adventures, thank you to our pupils, parents, staff and wider community for making it so special. Wishing everyone a wonderful summer filled with fun, relaxation and new memories.
We can`t wait to welcome you back in September! 💙
#WestBucklandSchool #SummerHolidays #SeeYouInSeptember #SchoolCommunity
🏄♂️🌊 The Perfect End to a Busy Term of Boarding Adventures
On the final weekend before our boarders headed home for the summer holidays, we enjoyed one last exciting outing with a trip to Westward Ho!
From catching waves during an exciting surfing session to friendly beach games on the sand, there was plenty of fun, teamwork and laughter throughout the day. Boarders also tried their hand at kite flying - definitely harder than it looks, but great fun as they worked to keep their kites soaring in the coastal breeze!
Of course, no visit to Westward Ho! would be complete without a Hockings Ice Cream, before rounding off the day with delicious food and stunning seaside views.
A wonderful way to finish the term - filled with fresh sea air, friendship, adventure and memories to last the summer. We wish all our boarders a happy, relaxing and well-deserved holiday! ☀️
#BoardingLife #WestwardHo #SeasideAdventure #StudentLife #MakingMemories #SurfingFun #BoardingCommunity #HockingsIceCream @bsaboarding @boardingschoolsnetwork
🎉 What a fantastic first year for our KS3 Research Projects!
For the first time, students in Years 7, 8 and 9 completed independent research projects on:
📚 Year 7 - Black History
🍃 Year 8 - Sustainability
🤖 Year 9 - Artificial Intelligence
The results were exceptional, with 127 projects completed, including 84 Merits and 16 Distinctions, showcasing the hard work, curiosity and dedication of our students.
We are incredibly proud of all involved and look forward to seeing these research skills continue to flourish in the years ahead.
🏆 Rudy Wins SLS Event in Newquay!
We`re delighted to share some fantastic news – Rudy took first place in the Under 15s Board Race at Fistral Beach, Newquay, in June!
The event formed part of the World Ocean Series, with Newquay serving as the opening stop before the tour heads to France, California, Australia and New Zealand. It is also included in the new SLSGB UK Tour, featuring events in Porthcawl, Newquay and Portreath.
Unless you`ve witnessed surf lifesaving competition firsthand, it`s difficult to appreciate the incredible surf skills, fitness and determination required to compete at this level. The standard of competition, especially in Rudy`s age group, is exceptionally high, making this achievement even more impressive.
Huge congratulations to Rudy on this outstanding accomplishment.
🧪 Cambridge Chemistry Challenge Success!
Congratulations to our Year 12 Chemistry students who recently took part in the Cambridge Chemistry Challenge.
We are delighted that three students achieved award success:
🥈 Carys D – Silver Award
🥈 Milo S – Silver Award
🥇 Ethan W – Gold Award
These impressive results reflect their hard work, dedication and excellent problem-solving skills in Chemistry. Well done to all three students on this outstanding achievement!
🏆✨ Celebrating Sporting Success!
Our Junior Sports Awards Evening was a fantastic celebration of the dedication, teamwork and achievements of students across Years 7–10, as well as recognising the contributions of every young athlete and celebrating this year`s award winners.
From a beautifully decorated Karslake Hall and a fun-filled raffle to delicious build-your-own burgers from Holroyd Howe, it was a memorable evening filled with recognition, laughter and plenty of sporting pride.
Want to find out who took home the evening`s top honours? Read the full blog to see all the award winners and highlights from a fantastic night of celebration - link in comments 👇
A huge thank you to our Sports Team, Grounds Team, Mrs Friend for the photos, North Devon Party Celebrations and everyone who helped make the evening such a success.
Join the West Buckland School Team!
We are currently seeking a Cleaner / Porter to join our friendly and hardworking team.
Set within our beautiful North Devon campus, this is an exciting opportunity to play an important role in ensuring our school environment remains welcoming, safe and well-presented for pupils, staff and visitors.
If you take pride in your work and enjoy being part of a supportive community, we would love to hear from you.
📍 West Buckland School, North Devon
🔗 westbuckland.com/about/vacancies/
🌍🍰 Geography Gets Creative!
Year 8 have been exploring how river drainage basins work, culminating in a fantastic `Make or Bake` Challenge!
From intricately crafted models to brilliantly decorated cakes, students showcased their geographical understanding in some truly creative ways. The result? A lesson that was both stimulating and delicious!
Well done to all our budding geographers for their imagination, effort and attention to detail.
🎭 Edge-of-your-seat theatre: this is A Level Drama at WBS.
Our Year 12 Drama students created and performed a powerful original piece of dystopian theatre, showcasing exceptional creativity both onstage and behind the scenes. Devised and produced by one half of our A Level Drama cohort, the production highlighted the imagination, collaboration and theatrical skill at the heart of the course.
Meredith M, Jess P and Rafe A delivered gripping performances, while Bella H’s atmospheric lighting design heightened the tension throughout. A Theatre Design Scholar and young director/designer with the National Youth Music Theatre (NYMT), Bella brought remarkable creative vision and professionalism to the production.
A huge achievement for everyone involved, and a brilliant example of the bold, ambitious theatre-making our A Level Drama students produce year after year.
#StudyDrama #ALevelDrama #WBSDrama #TheatreMakers #CreativeArts #StudentTheatre
✨ One week ago today, Sandy Cove provided the perfect setting for our magical Year 13 Ball.
Staff, parents and - most importantly - our Year 13 students gathered in their finest attire to celebrate their hard work, achievements, friendships and the countless memories made throughout their time at school. It was an evening to remember and a wonderful opportunity to come together before their next chapter begins.
A truly special night, and a wonderful way to celebrate all that you have achieved ❤
🎭 Cabaret Night 2026 – Years 10–13
Audiences were treated to an exceptional evening as our senior students took to the stage for Cabaret Night, delivering a programme packed with standout performances. From moving solos to show-stopping ensemble numbers, each act showcased not only impressive talent, but also real confidence and stage presence.
It’s a pleasure to see our students grow into such accomplished performers. A special thank you to our fantastic live band, whose energy and flair added that extra je ne sais quoi to every performance.
@howaboutdavephotography_life
🚜 Surprise Delivery Just in Time for Sports Day! 🏃♀️🏃♂️
Mrs Lowe had a lovely surprise this afternoon as Bucky the Buggy arrived, kindly loaned to us on demo by OHG Quads. She`s already putting it to good use, heading off to check the athletics fields ahead of tomorrow`s big day.
We can`t wait to see everyone at Sports Day tomorrow! ☀️🏅
#SportsDay #BuckyTheBuggy #ReadySetGo @ohg_quads
⭐ Cabaret Night 2026 – Years 7–9 ⭐
What an incredible evening of entertainment from our talented Year 7–9 performers! From powerful vocals to entertaining dance numbers, our junior students lit up the stage with enthusiasm and sparkle.
For many, this was their first opportunity to perform in front of a live audience, and they absolutely rose to the occasion. We are so proud of all the students who took part; the future of Performing Arts at WBS is certainly bright!
Finally, a huge thank you to our amazing live band, who provided fantastic support for our performers throughout the evening.
#CabaretNight #PerformingArts #StudentTalent #Years7to9 #SchoolCommunity
@howaboutdavephotography_life
✨ A Stunning Night at Saunton Sands
Our Year 11 Prom was a truly wonderful celebration of everything our students have achieved, marking the end of their exams in style.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Saunton Sands Hotel, it was a night full of pride, friendship and achievement - and everyone looked incredible. It was so special to see so many families there to raise a glass and celebrate together.
Well done, Year 11 - we’re so proud of all you’ve accomplished. Now enjoy a brilliant, well-deserved summer! 💫
Moth Biodiversity Study 🦋
Our Year 12 A-level Biology students have been exploring moth biodiversity - Mr Shawcross’s favourite lesson of the year!
An incredible 23 different moth species were recorded, giving students the highest biodiversity index they’ve ever achieved. Standout favourites included the small elephant hawkmoth, privet hawkmoth, poplar hawkmoth, and the brilliantly camouflaged buff tip.
A memorable session in the field, spotting species you don’t often see up close.
☀️ Make This Summer Unforgettable at West Buckland School! ☀️
Our Holiday Club is back for Summer 2026 – packed with fun, creativity and adventure for children from Nursery to Prep 4.
🎨 Arts & Crafts
🍰 Baking
⚽ Sports
🚌 Day Trips
🦸 Superhero Disco
… and so much more!
✅ Open to both West Buckland School pupils and external children
✅ Flexible booking – join us for the full summer or choose specific days/weeks that suit you!
📅 Running from 9th July – 19th August
Whether it’s keeping active, getting creative, or making new friends, there is something for everyone.
👉 For pricing and full programme details, follow the link, check our bio, or scan the QR code: tickettailor.com/events/wbs/2248444
#WestBucklandSchool #HolidayClub #Summer2026 #NorthDevon #SchoolHolidays #SummerFun
Psychology Trip • Shepton Mallet Prison
Our Year 12 students recently had an unforgettable day at Shepton Mallet Prison! From a thrilling escape-room challenge in a real cell to the `haunted` gate keepers residence and an eye-opening tour led by the very knowledgeable Officer Jason, they explored the realities of prison life past and present.
Students discovered historic cells, harsh routines and debated key issues like justice, rehabilitation, and the death penalty - bringing their studies to life in a truly immersive way.
A fantastic experience all round!
🏰🗡️ WELL DONE, YEAR 10!
What a brilliant evening of medieval mystery!
Huge congratulations to our Year 10 cast and crew for a fantastic performance of Who Killed T`Duke? Full of laughs, twists and Yorkshire charm, the show was a huge success. The audience laughed, gasped and played detective right up until the final moments.
A special shout out to Josh S for creating and operating the sound effects, helping to bring the intrigue and mystery to life.
We`re delighted that the performance helped raise £600 and counting for Pete`s Dragons and Devon Air Ambulance.
Thank you to everyone who supported the event—and, most importantly, well done to Year 10. You were absolutely fantastic! 🎭👏✨
#WhoKilledTDuke #Year10Drama #PetesDragons #DevonAirAmbulance #Proud #SchoolTheatre @petesdragonscharity @devonairambulance
WBS Edge – Behind the Game. Meet Mr Gill, Head of Tennis at West Buckland School, as he shares his approach to developing skilled, poised players, while nurturing resilience, focus, and a lifelong love of the game - a philosophy reflected in consistent success on the court.
At WBS, tennis offers a high-quality programme that supports ambition at every level - giving all students the opportunity to build confidence, pursue excellence, and realise their full potential on and off the court.
You have the Edge.
#WBSSport
All the flowers at tonight’s Sixth Form Ball at Sandy Cove Hotel have been grown right here in the school garden 🌿🌸
Led by the Charities Committee and WEBS, they are raising money for the Butterfly Conservation (Devon Branch) 🦋 - with bouquets available to buy at the end of the evening!
@savebutterflies
🗡️🏰 Break a leg, Year 10
Tonight, our fantastic Year 10 students take to the stage for their hilarious medieval murder mystery charity performance of Who Killed T`Duke? Set in the heart of medieval Yorkshire, this whodunnit is packed with suspicious nobles, dodgy alibis, Yorkshire wit and more twists than a castle staircase!
We`re incredibly proud of all the students who have worked so hard to bring this production to life, all while raising money for two incredible charities: ❤️ Pete`s Dragons 🚁 Devon Air Ambulance
Please join us in wishing the cast and crew a huge BREAK A LEG! 🎭
#WhoKilledTDuke #BreakALeg #Year10Drama #MurderMystery #MedievalYorkshire #SchoolProduction #CharityPerformance #PetesDragons #DevonAirAmbulance #DramaDepartment
Last night’s private view of our Art Show 2026 was a stunning celebration of creativity — our students’ talent lit up the 150 Studio. If you missed it, don’t worry… you’ve still got one more chance.
Join us on Speech Day, Wednesday 8 July, 1–2pm, in the 150 Studio.
Don’t miss it!
A huge thank you to our wonderful staff for going above and beyond during the recent hot weather 🌞
From our caretaking team keeping our additional hydration stations topped up, to our dedicated grounds staff creating shaded spaces and maintaining our beautiful campus. And, of course, to our teaching staff who have adapted lessons with creativity and care ensuring students could continue to enjoy a rich programme of activities, from adaptive sports to shaded outdoor learning.👏
🌿🌾 Fieldwork Adventures in a UNESCO Biosphere!
Our Year 12 A-level Biology students spent time exploring the stunning UNESCO Biosphere Reserve at Braunton Burrows last week as part of their studies.
They investigated the conservation and management of succession within this unique and diverse ecosystem - bringing classroom learning to life in an inspiring real-world setting. A fantastic opportunity to develop their practical skills while appreciating one of our incredible local environments!
WBS Edge – Behind the Game. Meet Miss Rickard, Head of Athletics at West Buckland School, as she shares her passion for empowering athletes, fostering grit, and unlocking potential.
At WBS, our athletics programme is designed to help every student find their stride - supported to develop, motivated to excel, and inspired to go further than they thought possible.
You have the Edge.
#WBSSport
🏆 Incredible achievement for Zak!
During half term, Zak represented the South West at the International Regional Tetrathlon Championships at Moreton Morrell, competing in the first year senior boys class.
He delivered an outstanding performance across all disciplines:
🎯 A 940 shoot – taking Top Shot in his class
🏊♂️ A personal best swim
🏃♂️ A solid run in challenging heat
On the final day, Zak faced a tough cross-country course and was the only competitor in his class to achieve the maximum 1400 ride score. With these incredible results combined, Zak was crowned champion 🥇
An especially rare accomplishment – holding the Junior Boys title and then winning the First Year Senior International Championship in the same year!
All of this achieved alongside his GCSEs, Zak`s success reflects his dedication and determination, with valued support from his teachers and the school recognised by his family.
👏 Massive congratulations, Zak – what a performance!
✨ National Boarding Week Celebrations
We’re proudly taking part in the BSA MasterChef Challenge - and our boarders have certainly risen to the occasion!
Alongside the fantastic food from our catering team, Holroyd Howe, our boarders love getting creative in the kitchen, regularly cooking up a storm of their own.
It’s about so much more than food – building confidence, learning new skills, and creating memories that last a lifetime. We’re always so impressed by their creativity (and very tempted by the results too!).
A special thank you to Ziqi and friends for this creative glimpse into cooking in Parker’s 🍛
#iloveboarding #NationalBoardingWeek #BSAis60 #BSAMasterchef
🖌Art Show 2026
Join us for this year’s Art Show in the 150 Art Studio, showcasing the incredible work of our talented students, including GCSE and A Level pieces.
Private View: Wednesday 24th June, 5–7pm
Speech Day Opening: Wednesday 8th July, 1–2pm
We would love to see you there as we celebrate the imagination, skill and dedication of our students, reflected in every piece on display.
🌿🔬 Biology in the Field at RHS Rosemoor
Our Year 10 GCSE Biology and Combined Science students swapped the classroom for the outdoors with a fantastic trip to RHS Rosemoor. During the visit, students took part in hands-on workshops exploring:
🌲 Woodland ecology – comparing broadleaved and coniferous habitats
🐝 Pollinator surveys – discovering the vital role insects play in ecosystems
🌱 Plant reproduction – seeing theory come to life
They also explored RHS “Award of Garden Merit” trials, investigating different varieties of potatoes and chard. A brilliant day of real-world science, helping bring key topics to life ahead of their exams!
Thank you to RHS Rosemoor for having us!
@rhsrosemoor
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.
