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.
🎭 Rehearsals are in full swing!
Just over two weeks until Chitty Chitty Bang Bang takes flight, and our cast and crew are working hard (and having plenty of fun) perfecting every moment.
🚗 Tickets are flying - have you got yours? Book now with the link in our bio ☝️
🌟 A huge thank you to our incredible sponsors, @yeotown and @holroydhowe. Their generous support is helping us bring this very special musical to life, and we’re so grateful for their partnership.
🏐WBS U14 Netball
This week, our U14s travelled to Braunton for a friendly. It was great to see some excellent netball being played by both teams👏
Thank you to @brauntonacademype for hosting us.
Our U14 A team are now in the final stages of preparation as they travel to Bournemouth next weekend for regional finals. Best of luck, girls 💪🏼💙
#WBSSport #WBSNetball #RegionalNetball #RegionalFinals
🎤 Karaoke Night in Boyer House!
Our boarders had a fantastic evening of music and laughter trying out the new karaoke machine! 🎶
@bsaboarding
🎓 Finding a Passion for Theology - Isabella’s Route to Oxford
Taking Religion, Philosophy & Ethics A‑level at West Buckland School gave Isabella a completely new way of seeing the subject. Debating ethical issues and exploring the New Testament sparked a passion for theology that she wanted to pursue further.
With exceptional support from her teachers and the careers team, Isabella gained the confidence to apply to the University of Oxford. Weekly tutorial‑style discussions and guidance through the application process helped her develop her thinking and prepare for interviews - and ultimately secure her place.
She is now enjoying her first year studying Theology & Religion at Mansfield College, and the experience has been extraordinary - from matriculating at the Sheldonian to revising in the Radcliffe Camera, meeting inspiring speakers, learning Biblical Hebrew, and doing the subject she loves every day.
Well done, Isabella - we’re all incredibly proud of everything you’ve achieved!
🧪 New Blog Alert: Applied Science at West Buckland School
Looking for a hands-on alternative to A-levels? Applied Science is the answer! Read the full blog (link in bio ☝) and discover why it could be the perfect choice for you.
#ThursdayThrowback | It`s all about 2016!
For West Buckland School, 2016 was a year of showstopping performances, sports triumphs, boarding adventures, the iconic Exmoor Run, brilliant results, new friendships, Phoenix debates, OWBA fixtures, unforgettable trips, concerts, community - and plenty of West Buckland Spirit. Some things never change!
Were you here in 2016? Share your favourite memory with us 👇
@wbs_owba
🏉 Rugby lives at West Buckland School!
We are proud to offer development‑focused training for boys and girls in association with the Exeter Chiefs Community Coaches. Alongside outstanding coaching, our amazing facilities - including eight rugby pitches - provide the perfect environment to grow skills, confidence and passion for the game.
🔥 And exciting news for the 2026/27 academic year…
We will be launching an elite Rugby Player Development Pathway designed to complement both A‑levels and vocational study.
👀 WATCH THIS SPACE!
🌿 New Natural History ECA!
Calling all young nature lovers aged 11–18 🐝 Come and explore the wonders of the natural world and pick up real skills used by ecologists in the field. From wildlife tracking to habitat surveys, it’s hands‑on, curious and full of discovery.
🌟 Holiday Club at West Buckland School! 🌟
Join us for a curious and calm half‑term packed with fun activities! From Field Sports to Yoga, Bug Hotel building, Picnics, and more, it’s going to be an unforgettable week! 🌿⚽🧘♀️🐞🧺
📅 Monday 16th February – Friday 20th February
⏰ 08:30 – 17:00
🔗 Book now: tickettailor.com/events/wbs/1991433
Don’t miss out, spaces will go fast! 🎉
🔥 Celebrate 100 Years of The Phoenix Society at WBS!
Join us this Friday, 23rd January at 6.30pm in the Karslake Hall for a special anniversary debate hosted by the OWBA and the School.
We’ll be revisiting a motion first argued a century ago:
“This house believes that the USA is not a credit to modern civilization.”
Enjoy an evening of thought‑provoking discussion, cheese and wine, and the chance to reconnect with fellow alumni, former staff and parents.
🎟️ Tickets are just £5 - secure your place now by following the link in our bio.
Don’t miss this milestone celebration. Book today and be part of the next 100 years of Phoenix Society history.
@owbassoc
🎬 From the Directors - Meet the Minds Behind the Magic!
We caught up with our Director, Mrs Hurstwaite; Musical Director, Mr Carter and and Choreographer, Ms Varley to get the inside scoop on how rehearsals are shaping up - and what audiences can look forward to when Chitty Chitty Bang Bang lands at the Landmark Theatre, Ilfracombe on 11, 12 and 13 February.
Tickets are flying, so grab yours via the link in our bio! ☝️
💙 Incredible news from our partner school, Agoro Oyombe in Kenya!
Thanks to generosity of the West Buckland School community - from casuals‑day contributions to sponsoring Ben W’s squash marathon - we opened a girls’ boarding house at Agoro Oyombe in August 2024. The impact has been remarkable.
Recent exam results show a huge rise in the number of students achieving the grades needed to progress to university:
⭐ 21% of female boarders
⭐ 50% of the girls whose boarding places we fully funded
⭐ 18% of the entire year group
Boarding is giving the girls the space, stability and support they need to focus on their studies - and it’s transforming futures.
A heartfelt thank you to every family who contributed. Your support is changing lives, strengthening our partnership and and making an incredibly positive difference for the students at Agoro Oyombe!
And of course, huge congratulations to the students themselves - their hard work, resilience and determination are at the heart of this success.
🎓 A glimpse into Cambridge life with alumnus Zac!
We were delighted to welcome back former student Zac Johnson to speak with our Sixth Formers about life at the University of Cambridge. Zac shared valuable insights into the application process, interviews and what it’s really like studying Natural Sciences at St John’s College.
He encouraged students to be enthusiastic and authentic in their personal statements, to prepare thoughtfully for interviews, and not to be discouraged if the process feels challenging.
After achieving straight A*s in Maths, Further Maths, Physics and Chemistry, Zac is now specialising in Earth Science with a focus on Geology - all while playing hockey and making the most of Cambridge life.
A huge thank you to Zac for returning to inspire the next wave of potential Cambridge applicants. Your advice and experience make a real difference!
@wbs_owba
🌟 Well Done Year 9 Book and Poetry Club! 🌟
Our Year 9 Book and Poetry Club took part in a poetry competition inspired by “I Have a Dream.” Their creativity impressed the judges so much that their poems have been published in an anthology: "I have A Dream - A Pocketful of Inspiration"! 📖
A huge congratulations to our talented writers: Emelia C, Naomi C, Harry J, Matilda R, and Evie B!✍️
#wbsmiddle #ihaveadreampoetry
🎭✨ Coming September 2026! ✨🎶
We’re excited to introduce the UAL Level 3 Diploma in Performing & Production Arts at West Buckland Sixth Form!
This dynamic qualification is designed to power up your creative career, preparing you for onward study in Drama, Music, and Dance. Students can also choose to focus on more specialist pathways in Dance, Drama, or Music, tailoring the course to their passions.
Even better, it can be combined with A-Levels or with other vocational qualifications, giving you flexibility and expanding your future options 🚀
🎤🎬 Whether you dream of performing on stage or working behind the scenes, this course helps you build skills, confidence, and experience for the next step in your journey.
📩 Interested in learning more about this qualification or life at West Buckland Sixth Form?
Contact our Admissions Team today and start your creative journey!
🩺 Yesterday, we were thrilled to welcome former student Ella J back to West Buckland School!
Ella shared her journey studying Physiotherapy at the University of Birmingham with our Medical Society. Students from Year 10 and above gained valuable insights into what the course involved, how to prepare for university interviews, and what life at university is really like!
A huge thank you to Ella for inspiring the next generation of healthcare professionals!
🌍 KENYA 2027 – A Once in a Lifetime Adventure Awaits!
Current Year 10, 11 and 12 students - this is your chance to be part of something unforgettable. From 10–23 July 2027, join us on a transformational trip to our long standing partner school, Agoro Oyombe Secondary School.
Spend 10 days immersed in school life: join lessons, play sport and chess, support the neighbouring primary school and connect with students, teachers and families in the local community.
Then journey back to Nairobi through the breathtaking East African Rift Valley, visiting a tea plantation, the Thomson Falls and Lake Naivasha. You’ll also experience a safari at Lake Nakuru and the iconic Giraffe Centre.
This enriching partnership has been thriving since 2005, with joint projects in chess, poetry, tree planting, classroom building and more. Now it’s your turn to be part of the story.
✈️ Spaces are limited - don’t miss out. Sign up now and start your Kenya 2027 journey.
🚀 Thinking about Senior School? Come and try West Buckland School for a day!
If you’re in Year 5 or Year 6, this is your chance to step into real lessons, meet new friends and get a feel for the buzz of life at West Buckland School.
📅 Monday 22nd January
⏰ 08:45 – 17:00 (lunch included!)
📝 Sign‑up required: Link in bio or visit westbuckland.com/experience-day
See the school environment, meet the people and discover what makes our school such an exciting place to learn. We would love to welcome you ✨
✨ A sneak peek behind the scenes at our Chitty Chitty Bang Bang rehearsals ✨
Just over a month to go until we bring this fantasmagorical show to the Landmark Theatre in Ilfracombe - and we can’t wait!
Tickets are selling fast… have you got yours? Grab them now via the link in our bio ☝️
🎶 Chapel Choir Update 🎶
After their wonderful performance at last term’s Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, the Chapel Choir returned to rehearsals with renewed energy!
They’ve now begun preparing for one of this term’s major highlights: Choral Evensong at Exeter Cathedral on Wednesday 4 March.
#wbsmusic #wbsmiddle #wbssixthform
🎼 We are proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our students in Autumn`s ABRSM and Trinity music examinations:
🎶 5 students achieved Distinction
🎶 3 students earned Merit
These achievements reflect their countless hours of practice, perseverance, and love for music. Well done, everyone!
#ExcellenceInMusic #ABRSM #Trinity #wbsmusic
🎾 We’re thrilled to share some exciting news!
West Buckland School has been nominated for the Devon School of the Year Award 2025 by the Devon County Tennis Association - part of the first tier of the Lawn Tennis Association’s British Tennis Awards.
This nomination recognises the commitment, enthusiasm, and achievements of our students, staff, and wider tennis community. We’re incredibly proud of our tennis programme here at WBS and our coaches, who make everything possible through their dedication and love of the sport.
Tennis is thriving at WBS, with large participation across all year groups, and this nomination is a real reflection of the hard work and passion of everyone involved.
Winners will be announced later this month at the Devon Tennis Awards Evening.
A huge thank you to Devon Tennis for this honour, and congratulations to everyone who makes WBS tennis such a success.
@devontennis #DevonTennis #LTAAwards #SchoolOfTheYear #BritishTennisAwards #WBSSport #SchoolTennis #ProudMoment #TeamWBS
🏊♂️ Rise & Swim: Thursday Morning Club Returns!
Kick‑start your day the energising way - our early‑morning swim sessions with expert coach Paul Irwin are back from Thursday 15th January, starting bright and early at 7:10 AM in the school pool.
- 5‑week block (no session on 29th January)
- £12 per session including breakfast; £60 total, paid upfront via the portal
- Open to all ages and abilities
- Booking Code: J306 – SWI‑CLB
Make your Thursdays count - dive in, feel great, and secure your spot today!
#wbsswimming #MorningSwim #SwimTraining #TechniqueMatters #SchoolPool #StartSmart
🌈 Join us for Mini-Minds Meet – a series of FREE, fun-filled taster sessions designed especially for curious toddlers (ages 2–5) and their grown-ups!
Next up: The Very Hungry Caterpillar, a joyful session filled with music, movement and connection through performance, sound and song. 🐛
Meet new friends, explore playful themed activities, and enjoy a warm, creative atmosphere.❤️
📅 Tuesday 13 January
🕥 10:30 – 12:00
✅ Sessions are free
Places are limited, so don’t miss out - book now via the link in bio!
#LittleLearners #EarlyYearsFun #FamilyEvent #FreeSession #ParentAndToddler #CommunityConnections #SouthMolton #Barnstaple
✨ Wishing you all a fantastic term ahead! ✨
We’re excited to welcome students and staff back for the start of the Spring Term and hope everyone enjoyed a restful and joyful festive break.
A new term brings fresh opportunities, new challenges and plenty to look forward to across our school community. Here’s to a bright, energetic and inspiring start to 2026 - let’s make it a great one together.
🎉 Happy New Year from West Buckland School! 🎉
As we say goodbye to 2025 and welcome 2026, we would like to wish our incredible students, staff, parents, and alumni a very Happy New Year.
✨ Here’s to new opportunities, exciting challenges, and continued success in the year ahead!
#HappyNewYear2026 #wbsmiddle #wbssixthform #wbsprep
Our Year 7 students used the end of term to take time to handwrite letters to supporters of the Foundation within our alumni community, sharing updates on their experiences at West Buckland School and their transition into Year 7 ✉️
Each letter is thoughtfully matched by house, creating a more personal and meaningful connection across our community. A wonderful tradition that strengthens the bond between past and present students.
#WestBucklandSchool #BucklandCommunity #OWBA #Foundation #SchoolTraditions #StudentVoice #HandwrittenLetters #HouseSystem #Fortescue #Grenville #Brereton #Courtenay
🎄 Merry Christmas from West Buckland School! 🎄
From all of us here at West Buckland School, we want to wish you all a joyful holiday season filled with peace, happiness, and festive cheer.
Thank you to everyone who have helped make this year so special! 🌟
#MerryChristmas #wbsmiddle #wbssixthform #wbsprep
✨🎄Door Number 1 of our WBS Countdown to Christmas ✨🎄
We’ve saved something special for the final door…
To close our countdown, our Heads of School, Megan B and Ben W, share their Christmas message for the West Buckland School community. A moment of reflection, gratitude and festive cheer as we wrap up a wonderful term and look ahead to the new year.
Thank you for joining us throughout our countdown - we hope it’s brought a little sparkle to your December.
Wishing you all a joyful Christmas and a peaceful holiday break from everyone at West Buckland School.
✨🎄Door Number 2 of our WBS Countdown to Christmas ✨🎄
The most paw‑fect way to spread Christmas cheer… meet the real stars of West Buckland School!
From dogs and cats to rabbits, chickens and even a very festive praying mantis, our staff pets are here to wish you all a warm and wonderfully wiggly Christmas. Enjoy this adorable reel of our extended WBS family - guaranteed to make your day a little brighter and a lot fluffier.
And because Christmas is all about sharing joy, show us your own festive pets in the comments - we’d love to see them!
✨🎄Door Number 3 of our WBS Countdown to Christmas ✨🎄
Our Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols was a beautiful way to round off the Autumn Term and celebrate the season with the West Buckland School community. With stunning music and hymns from the Senior Choir, Chapel Choir and Junior Choir — including a piece composed by our own Mr Carter, Prep Head of Music — the service was a true showcase of talent and tradition.
Lessons and prayers were read by students, staff and dignitaries, including our Heads of School, Megan B and Ben W, and the Countess of Arran, President of the School.
A heartfelt thank you to Mr Smith, Director of Music, Mr Carter, Head of Prep Music, and Mr Birstow, Head of Academic Music, along with our wonderful choir singers, musicians, and everyone who joined us for this special occasion.
We are delighted to share that our Festival of Lessons & Carols performance is now available to watch via the MySchoolPortal platform!
👉 Watch Here: https://portal.westbuckland.com/page/305
#WBScountdowntoChristmas #wbssixthform
✨🎄Door Number 4 of our WBS Countdown to Christmas ✨🎄
🎟️ Last few days to grab our Early Bird discount for Chitty Chitty Bang Bang! Why not snap up our fantasmagorical VIP Theatre Package – the perfect Christmas gift. Tickets, bubbly, a souvenir programme, and our limited‑edition Toot Sweet pin badge… everything you need for a magical night out. Treat yourself (or someone special) and tick another present off your list.
Follow the link in our bio 👆
✨🎄Door Number 5 of our WBS Countdown to Christmas ✨🎄
The lead‑up to Christmas has been wonderfully musical here at West Buckland School. From informal concerts and jazz numbers to carols in the Quad and our Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols to round off the term, it’s been a joyful celebration of music and community. Enjoy a few snippets with us!
✨🎄 Door Number 6 of our WBS Countdown to Christmas! ✨🎄
As the term draws to a close, we asked our Sixth Form students to sum up their experience in just three words!
We’re incredibly proud of their hard work and achievements this term, and we wish them a joyful and well-deserved holiday break.
#WBScountdowntoChristmas #wbssixthform
📬 Postcard from Antarctica!
After 10 incredible years as our Head of Outdoor Learning, Mr Hathway is now living his dream as an expedition leader in Antarctica aboard the SH Minerva.
We were thrilled to receive a letter and photos recently, giving students and staff a glimpse into his extraordinary adventures. From Macaroni and king penguins to humpback whales, 10‑metre swells, soaring seabirds, baby elephant seals, leopard seals, and vast rolling icebergs - he’s experiencing the wildest classroom imaginable.
We miss him here at West Buckland School, but we’re so glad he’s having such an epic adventure!
#WBSCommunity #OutdoorEducation #AntarcticaAdventure #ExpeditionLife
✨🎄Door Number 7 of our WBS Countdown to Christmas ✨🎄Our marvellous wooden Christmas tree is made from recycled pallet wood and scrap metal and decorated with WBS Angels - all made by boarders from Boyer and Parkers. Special mention of the angel, crafted by our youngest boarder! #WBSChristmas #CountdownToChristmas #WestBucklandSchool #BoardingLife #SustainableChristmas #RecycledArt #ChristmasCrafts @bsaboarding
✨🎄Door Number 8 of our WBS Countdown to Christmas ✨🎄
We are delighted to share this lovely performance of Silent Night by our talented Prep String Group. This piece was practised for their appearance at East Buckland Church for the Prep Final Assembly.
Merry Christmas from the Prep String Group.
#WBScountdowntoChristmas #SilentNight #PrepStringGroup #wbsprep #wbsmusic
🎄 Retired Staff Christmas Lunch ✨
We had the pleasure of welcoming so many familiar faces back to school last week for our annual retired staff Christmas lunch, beautifully organised by the Old West Buckland Association.
It’s always a joy to bring together such a warm and engaged community who love reconnecting, sharing memories, and celebrating the spirit of West Buckland School. A real treat for our current staff and students to see much‑loved teachers from years gone by.
#WestBucklandSchool #OWBA #SchoolCommunity #RetiredStaffLunch #FestiveSeason #WBSFamily #SchoolSpirit #TogetherAgain #CommunityMatters @wbs_owba
✨🎄Door Number 9 of our WBS Countdown to Christmas ✨🎄
Today, we are celebrating our amazing dance students guided by Ms Varley, our Head of Dance and professional ballet dancer.
Ms Varley teaches students from Nursery to Year 12, covering ballet, contemporary, theatre, lyrical, and gymnastics. Our dance programme includes 1-to-1 sessions, twilight classes, and GCSE Dance during ECA time.
Well done to all our dancers for this brilliant piece of work! ✨
#WBSCountdown #CountdownToChristmas #WBSdance #ChristmasAtWBS
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.
