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
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!
Growing up is inevitable, but how you do it is a choice. At West Buckland, we believe in nurturing our studentsโ 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 studentโs true potential. Our inclusive and ever-exploring community provides the perfect environment for them to flourish.ย 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
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, weโre 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
Oscarโs 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.
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Mike Reed – New Lead House Parent Parker’s
We are thrilled to welcome Mike as the new Lead Houseparent at Parker’s, our Sixth Form Boarding House. With 23 years of experience in education, Mike brings a dynamic blend of pastoral care, academic focus, and a passion for fostering independence. His commitment to creating a supportive and vibrant community promises an exciting and enriching experience for all our boarders.
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Testimonial from an international parent
We received a testimonial from a mother who visited her daughter here at West Buckland School for our Speech Day. She praised our green campus, modern facilities and supportive teachers. Her daughter, far from home due to the war in Ukraine, has thrived here over the past two years.
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 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
A Bi-ennial Inspection was held on Monday 25 November 2024 for West Buckland School Combined Cadet Force (CCF) to review the achievements and progression of the Contingent.
On the crisp and colourful autumnal afternoon, 57 cadets paraded smartly in Open Order outside the front of the school, ready for their first Bi-ennial Inspection in 3 years. The parade was commanded by SSgt Noah C (Y13) under the guidance of School Staff Instructor, Flight Sergeant RAFAC Zoe Hill.
Greeted and inspected by Colonel Robert Guest TD ACF, Colonel Cadets South West, the cadets were asked about their favourite experiences so far and their future aspirations as a cadet at West Buckland School.
Accompanying Colonel Rob Guest along the inspection lines, were Service Helper, Colonel Gary Candlish (Army Regular) and Commodore RN, Andy Nelstrop, broadening the insight of the Tri-services. The Inspectors had the pleasure of meeting and chatting with cadets from both Army and RAFAC service sections, from Y9 up to Y13.
The inspectors enjoyed a buffet lunch and a presentation by Flying Officer RAFAC Liz Cwilewicz, Contingent Commander, followed by tour of the Facilities, Estate and Outdoor & Indoor Ranges.
Finally, the Inspectors had a flavour of the Best of the Cadet Experience on site, with Laser Tag command tasks, Indoor Range, Fieldcraft and the new Flight Simulator kit in the ESports suite.
Overall, the Inspectors were impressed and offered their support for the Contingent with upcoming Rifle Training courses for Bisley and Senior Cadet Instructor Courses in 2025.
๐
Save the Date!
Looking to provide your child with additional support as exam season approaches?
Then look no further! Our Easter Revision Course is back for the fourth consecutive year, open to external Year 11 students as well as our own students.
๐ Led by experienced and qualified teachers, this course covers a range of subjects, including English, Maths, Chemistry, Biology, Physics, History, D.T, Art, Business and RS, helping students assess and plug gaps in their knowledge, prepare for exams, learn strategies to improve revision techniques and boost their chances of securing the grades they deserve.
๐ We will be offering residential and day options from 7th โ 10th April 2025.
๐ New this year: Weโre also introducing an A-level Revision Course, exclusively for West Buckland School students, to support advanced preparation.
๐ Last bookings close on 7th February 2025, so donโt miss your chance to secure a spot.
๐ Register your interest today via the link in our bio โจ
#GCSERevision #ExamSuccess #EasterRevision #WestBucklandSchool
November may be over, but there`s still time to support our Sixth Form boys, led by Noah C, in raising money for Movember! Pictured here on the last day of November with their moustaches, the team has already raised an impressive ยฃ1,200 through their hard work running the "Cornershop."
Weโre just ยฃ50-ยฃ100 away from reaching their targetโevery little bit helps! ๐ Donate today and help them hit their goal via the link in our bio ๐
#Movember #WestBucklandSchool
๐โจ Join us for a magical evening of music at the West Buckland School Christmas Concert! ๐ถ๐
๐ Date: Thursday, 5th December
โฐ Time: 7:00 PM
๐ Location: Memorial Hall, West Buckland
This festive celebration will feature the amazing talents of:
๐ค WBS Choirs
๐ถ WB Choral Society
๐ป Chamber Orchestra
๐บ Concert Band
๐ท String Quartet
๐ท West Buckland Jazz
Admission is FREE! Come and enjoy an unforgettable night of holiday cheer, incredible performances and community spirit. ๐๐ถ
Singing at Christmas is like spreading a little extra joy in the air โ and we have plenty to share! ๐ถ๐ซ
See you there!โจ
#WBS #HolidayConcert #CommunityMusic #FestiveFun #Christmas
On Thursday evening, the Chapel Choir took a break from rehearsing for tomorrow`s Advent Service to record two beautiful pieces for their application to the prestigious Barnardo`s Choir of the Year Competition.
A special thank you to Ben W in Year 12, who showcased his exceptional Music Technology skills by expertly recording the session. Well done to everyone involved! ๐คโจโจ
#WestBucklandSchool #ChapelChoir #BarnardosChoirCompetition #wbsmusic
๐ A heartfelt thank you from Revd. Tandy ๐
To every student and parent who lovingly packed a shoebox for a child in need, your generosity is truly inspiring. ๐ Your thoughtful donations will bring joy and hope to children who might not otherwise receive a gift this Christmas. ๐โจ
Thank you for your kindness and for making a meaningful difference this holiday season. โค๏ธ
#CommunitySpirit #GivingBack #ChristmasJoy#wbsprep
๐ Stars of the Week ๐
A huge congratulations to our Stars of the Week who have gone above and beyond in their studies, demonstrating dedication, creativity and kindness. You are an inspiration to us allโwell done! ๐
๐ Sportsperson of the Week ๐
A big shoutout to this week`s Sportsperson of the Week, Kacper, for his outstanding effort, sportsmanship and determination both on and off the field. Keep shiningโyouโre a champion! ๐ช
#StarOfTheWeek #SportspersonOfTheWeek #WestBucklandSchool #proudmoments #wbsprep
๐ South West Computational Thinking Cup ๐งฉ
On 22nd November, over 100 students from across the South West gathered at @millfieldschool 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.
From pattern matching to debugging algorithms, the day was packed with exciting tasks designed to test logical reasoning, algorithmic thinking and teamwork. Our students embraced every challenge with enthusiasm and skill!
๐ A special congratulations to Team 6โTilly, Martha and Evelynโwho emerged victorious in the B team competition!
Read all about the event and the amazing puzzles our students tackled in our latest blog via the link in bio โจ
โจ Second star to the right, and straight on to an incredible performance! โจ
Break a leg!
#WestBucklandSchool #WendyAndPeterPan #TheatreMagic #wbsdrama
We couldnโt be prouder of the incredible cast and crew of Wendy & Peter Pan! Last nightโs opening performance was nothing short of spectacular, showcasing the immense talent of our students and the dedication of our amazing Drama department. โจ๐ญ We canโt wait to see the magic continue in the next two shows. Break a leg, everyone! #WendyAndPeterPan #DramaAtWestBucklandSchool #TheatreMagic#wbsdrama
Join us for our Sixth Form Open Evening on Tuesday, 28th January, at 6:30 pm.
Discover how West Buckland School empowers students to achieve their ambitions with outstanding academic results, dedicated pastoral care and exciting opportunities beyond the classroom.
๐ Meet our expert teachers
๐ Explore our exceptional facilities
๐ Learn about scholarships and personalised pathways
โจ At West Buckland School, education goes beyond the classroom. From international trips and Duke of Edinburgh awards to eco-sustainability projects, leadership programmes and creative arts performances, our Sixth Form students are encouraged to develop life skills, leadership qualities and confidence to stand out in the world.
๐ฏ Our dedicated careers advice service helps students explore their aspirations, gain valuable work experience and prepare for top university applications, apprenticeships and future careers.
๐ Save the date and sign up via the link in our bio.
We can`t wait to welcome you! ๐
#SixthForm #OpenEvening #WestBucklandSchool #DiscoverYourFuture #Leadership #BeyondTheClassroom #CareersAdvice #EducationForLife#wbssixthform
๐ญ๐ Break a leg to our talented staff and students as the curtain rises on the premiere night of our sold-out school production of Wendy & Peter Pan tonight! ๐โจ We can`t wait to see the magic unfold on stageโgood luck to everyone involved! ๐งโโ๏ธ๐ช #WestBucklandSchool #WendyAndPeterPan #SchoolProduction #BreakALeg #wbsdrama
๐ถ Afternoon of Music ๐ถ
Today, our talented students transformed lunchtime into a musical showcase, filling the school with beautiful performances. ๐น๐ป๐ท
Thank you to everyone who performed and supported โ what a perfect way to break up the day! ๐
#WestBucklandSchool #DiscoverTheExtraordinary #MusicMatters #StudentTalent #wbsmusic
This past Wednesday, Boyer and Bamfylde House hosted a delightful evening filled with laughter, teamwork, and delicious pizza!๐ฅ๐ฅณ
Our boarders came together to celebrate the end of the Year 11 mock exams by making and cooking around 100 pizzas using our brand-new wood pellet fired pizza ovens. The event was a fantastic way to unwind and enjoy the fruits of their hard work.
Here`s to more memorable moments and mouth-watering pizzas! ๐๐#wbs #Teamwork #PizzaParty #BoardingLife #MakingMemories
Sushi Night Success at Parkers!
Last Saturday evening, our Sixth Form students enjoyed an incredible Sushi Night at Parkers, thanks to the culinary expertise of Mrs. Boyle.
Under her guidance, the students finely chopped fresh ingredients๐๐ฅ and mastered the art of rolling and presenting beautiful plates of sushi. It was a night of learning, creativity, and delicious food, making it an unforgettable experience for everyone involved. ๐ฃโจ #WBS #boardingschoolsuk #sushi
๐ญ It`s been an incredibly exciting week as we watch all the magical elements of our show come together! A Huge thank you to our #WBSFoundation for their help in funding our stunning new star cloth, which will no doubt create a wonderous backdrop for many future productions in our beloved 150 Theatre. ๐
๐๏ธ Tickets for our upcoming performance of `Wendy and Peter Pan` are officially sold out! We can`t wait to share this enchanting show with you all!
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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.
