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.
🎭 Theatrical Masterclass for Our A-level English Literature Students
On Thursday, our Sixth Formers headed to the Barnfield Theatre in Exeter to watch A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams. Before the performance, they took part in an exclusive workshop led by the show’s director - and former West Buckland pupil - Tim Isaac.
Tim arrived proudly holding his original A Level copy of the play and talked students through his creative choices, from set design to prop selection. He also answered a wide range of questions, including insights into his favourite scenes and how he brought the production to life.
A fantastic opportunity for our students to deepen their understanding of the text and see it performed on stage.
@wbs_owba @barnfield_theatre
🌿 Year 8 Outdoor Learning 🌿
To kick off this year’s Outdoor Learning programme, our Year 8s had the fantastic opportunity to learn from Darren Sherwood of Exmoor Game School. Darren introduced the students to the rich variety of wildlife found in our local area and helped them explore where our food really comes from.
Students also got a unique hands‑on experience preparing food themselves. These sessions have been a huge hit, with Year 8 thoroughly enjoying the chance to learn outdoors and connect with nature.
#wbsmiddle #ExmoorGameSchool @theexmoorgameschool24
📅 Next Week at WBS Sport
Another busy week ahead with a full schedule of fixtures and events. Hockey, rugby, netball, football, tennis, basketball, and Barnstaple Parkrun all on the calendar.
Good luck to everyone involved 💪
#WBSSport #SchoolSport #WeeklyFixtures #GameWeek #StudentAthletes #TeamWBS #YouthSport
🎭 The 150 Theatre Performing Arts Festival 2026 🎤
Huge congratulations to everyone involved in this year’s festival! It was fantastic to see so much talent on display across Public Speaking (Year 8), Musical Solos (Years 3-12), Modern and Devised Drama (Year 11), Classical Solo Drama (Year 11), plus a brilliant range of Classical Duologues, Devised Drama, and Poetry Speaking.
A big thank you to Gail Ratcliffe, returning by popular demand to adjudicate the festival. 🌟
🌟 The Importance of Mindset
A huge thank you to OWB Emma Lee, Mindset Coach, who delivered an inspiring session to our Sixth Formers this week on why mindset matters - especially at this crucial point in the year.
In this interactive and thought‑provoking workshop, Emma explored the power of a growth mindset, the ways our beliefs can build or limit us, and shared her practical Mindset Micro Practices - brilliant tools to help students mentally prepare for challenging situations such as exams, interviews, and big decisions.
Thank you, Emma, for empowering our Sixth Form with such valuable insight!
@emmalee_mindsetcoach @wbs_owba
🏃♂️🏃♀️Senior House Run
Well done to everyone who took part in yesterday’s Senior House Run! 👏
There were some excellent performances, giving a strong warm-up ahead of the Exmoor, which is just a few weeks away.
#SeniorHouseRun #WBSsport #ExmoorChallenge #SchoolSport #ExmoorRun
An Inspiring Evening of Academic Discovery
Our recent academic dinner brought together a rich programme of ideas, insight and inspiration. Mr Lowe, a Cambridge graduate with a Master’s in Organisational Behaviour who has worked with clients including the NHS, BP and Goldman Sachs, opened the evening with a dynamic session on leadership and making a positive impression, sharing clear strategies and real-world examples.
Mateo H-P followed with an engaging presentation of his mathematical research, analysing his own running performance to show how athletics and analytical thinking can meaningfully intersect.
Dr McKerrow then introduced guests to The Epstein Files, unpacking recent developments in an accessible and intriguing way. The evening concluded with Cambridge astrophysicist Alicja Brzezowska, who shared her cutting‑edge research and offered a fascinating glimpse into the world of astrophysics.
The event sparked lively discussion and was a memorable celebration of curiosity, scholarship and the joy of learning - an evening that reminded us just how inspiring academic exploration can be.
🏉 Dedication Rewarded: Luke Selected for Exeter Chiefs U15s
We are thrilled to share that Luke S has earned his place in the Exeter Chiefs U15s squad. A fantastic milestone and a well‑deserved reward for his effort and passion on the pitch. Huge congratulations Luke 👏
@exeterchiefsacademy
🎶 Chapel Choir Sings Choral Evensong at Exeter Cathedral
This week, the Chapel Choir made their annual pilgrimage to Exeter Cathedral to sing the age-old service of Choral Evensong. After weeks of dedicated preparation, our singers rose to the occasion beautifully, performing a demanding repertoire with confidence and musical maturity.
A standout moment was their performance of Edward Bairstow’s Though I Speak with the Tongues of Men, set to text from St Paul’s letter to the Corinthians - a challenging and deeply expressive piece that they delivered with real poise.
We are incredibly proud of every member of the choir for their hard work, focus and commitment. They represented the school wonderfully in such a historic and inspiring setting.
🤝 Celebrating International Women’s Day at West Buckland School 🤝
We’re proud to support International Women’s Day. This year’s theme, Give to Gain, reminds us that when we give - knowledge, opportunity, support, guidance, kindness and encouragement - we all gain.
Across our West Buckland community, women and girls contribute strength, creativity and leadership every day, and today we celebrate them. We stand with them, we champion them, and we continue to build a school where they can thrive.
Together, let’s #GiveToGain
🙌 Rolling into the Weekend!
Our boarders from Boyer and Parkers headed to Stoppers Roller Rink for an afternoon of fun last weekend. There were plenty of wobbles and a few tumbles, but the determination paid off and everyone improved on the skates. Julio wowed the group with his skills and encouragement, and it was great to see all ages joining together for a long conga line around the rink.
Jubril, Ziqi and Oliver were our most improved skaters, and after a well‑earned milkshake or soda, the group returned happy, a little sore, and with stories to tell and great memories.
@boardingschoolsnetwork @stoppersrollerrink
🎬 Sebastian Makes His Screen Debut!
Huge congratulations to Sebastian SW (Prep 4), who made his screen debut on Sunday night as an extra in BBC’s Call The Midwife. Although the scene was filmed back in October, it was exciting for him - and all of us - to finally see it on screen!
Sebastian loved getting to know the cast on set after a very early call time and was fascinated to see how everything works behind the scenes. He said everyone was wonderful, especially Jenny Agutter, who was incredibly kind during their takes.
A brilliant experience and a very proud moment - well done, Sebastian!
Image credit: BBC & Oliver SW
✨ Year 12 Young Ambassadors ✨
Inspiring work from our Year 12 Young Ambassadors at the Children`s Hospice South West training days!
Carys, Emily and Scarlett delivered presentations and got stuck into the team‑building activities around planning events. We’re so proud of their enthusiasm and the difference they’re helping to make. Well done!
@childrenshospicesw
📍 Year 12 Geography Field Trip to Manchester
Over the half‑term break, our Year 12 Geographers headed to Manchester to investigate urban change as part of their A Level studies. They explored the city centre, visited the Museum of Science and Industry, and spent time at the Lowry Art Gallery - gaining valuable insight and a real sense of place in one of the UK’s most dynamic cities.
This experience strengthens their A Level understanding by bringing urban theory to life through real‑world fieldwork and first‑hand observation. A great display of learning in action - superb work, everyone!
🎉 We are proud to be celebrating National Careers Week! 🎉
As we add the final touches to our careers event happening ✨tomorrow✨, make sure to keep an eye on our Stories today 👀. We will be sharing helpful links, resources, and insights on all things careers!
Stay tuned and get inspired for your next step 🚀✨
@careersweek
🎓 New School, New Adventure!
Looking for a Year 7 place for September 2026? We still have a few spaces available, and now is the perfect time to book a tour and discover what makes a West Buckland School education truly extraordinary.
Come and explore our campus, meet our community, and see first-hand how we help every pupil thrive.
Our Admissions team would be delighted to arrange a personalised tour at a time that suits you. Get in touch today! Please email [email protected] or call 01598 760179.
The countdown is on for West Buckland School’s legendary cross country run - The Exmoor. A highlight of the school calendar, students will take on the Kingsford Long and the Heasley Short on Tuesday 31 March.
Alumni and parents are invited to join the challenge too. Follow the link in our bio to sign up now to secure your spot!
✒️ World Book Day Visit - Chris Vick 📚
Today, we were delighted to welcome author Chris Vick (Shadow Creature, Sky Dancer), who ran a mixture of creative writing workshops throughout the day in celebration of World Book Day on Thursday.
Students from Years 5 to 10 explored storytelling and the craft of writing, with Chris sharing valuable insights from his life as an author. He even had the chance to meet our Reading Ambassadors!
A huge thank you to @chrisvick321 for an engaging and motivating visit!
#wbsmiddle #wbsprep #WorldBookDay2026 #ChrisVick
🏃♀️ BREMCO Cross Country Final
Sunday’s BREMCO Cross Country final at West Buckland School was a fantastic way to close the season. A huge well done to everyone who competed - the commitment and sportsmanship shown across all age groups, from the U9s through to the seniors, was brilliant to see.
Individual highlights include:
🥇 Nyla R – 1st, U17 Girls
🥈 George H – 2nd, U15 Boys
🏅 U15 Girls: Ellie S (10th)
🏅 U13 Girls: Matilda P (3rd), Isabella G (4th)
🏅 Finn B (9th) & Oliver J (11th)
🏅 U11 Girls: Coco W (4th), Emily J (7th)
🏅 U9 Girls: Pheobe L (3rd), Lulu G (5th), Lucy G (8th)
To round off a brilliant day, both our U9 and U11 girls’ teams finished 2nd overall and both secured the overall points trophies - a fantastic achievement and a wonderful way to end the season! 💚
#BREMCO #CrossCountry #TeamSuccess #WBSSport
🎓 Medicine in Action! 🩺
Our Year 12 A‑Level Biology students were joined by Mr Luke Brunton and Mr Michel Kenaan for an inspiring session with the Dissection Club. Students got a real taste of life in surgery by learning how to suture wounds and repair bone fractures using screws and plates.
👩⚕️ These hands‑on experiences give our aspiring doctors and biomedical scientists a valuable insight into the skills and precision needed in medical careers.
#wbssixthform
🤝 £500 Raised for Movember!🤝
A big well done to our school community for raising £500 for #Movember, with support from our Charity Tuck Shop and our Sixth Form boys who took part in Grow a Mo last November. Movember funds vital work to tackle the men’s health crisis worldwide.
Today, our Sixth Form boys also attended an important talk on testicular cancer delivered by Richard Bullard of `It’s in the Bag`, a South West charity raising awareness and supporting early detection.
A strong community effort for an important cause.
🎉 Well done to the WBS Reapers! 🎮
A huge shoutout to our eSports team for their hard work in their recent match against the LVS Lancers (LVS Ascot) yesterday.
It’s wonderful to see our players growing in confidence and supporting one another in the game. Well done, Reapers!
🎶 Celebrating Our Talented Young Musicians! 🎶
Well done to Mason O (Yr9), River P (Yr7), Thomas B (Yr7) and William S-W (Prep 6), who are members of the Devon Youth Wind Orchestra and took part in a fantastic music residential weekend at Blundell’s School.
🎼 Throughout the weekend, they dedicated themselves to rehearsing a range of challenging pieces, ending with a brilliant concert on Sunday 15th February to family and friends.
🏊♂️ Thursday Morning Swim Club Is Back - Dive In!
Start your Thursdays feeling strong, focused and energised. Our early‑morning swim sessions with expert coach Paul Irwin return from Thursday 26 February, kicking off bright and early at 7:10 AM in the school pool.
⭐ 5‑week block
⭐ £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 mornings matter. Build technique, boost fitness and join a brilliant community of swimmers. Secure your place and make a splash this term.
#wbsswimming #MorningSwim #SwimTraining #TechniqueMatters #SchoolPool #StartSmart
✨ Welcome Back, Everyone! ✨
We`re so thrilled to see our students returning refreshed and ready from their half-term break. Already the school has come to life with everyone diving into a brand new week!
🚣 West of England selection for Harry!
Following the JIRR trials in Totnes, Harry W has been selected to represent the West of England competing in Nottingham at the Junior inter-regional regatta this April - a significant and well deserved achievement.
Next month, Harry will also race at the prestigious Head of the River in London, representing his club, Bideford Reds ARC, in their Men’s 8. This iconic race, rowed in reverse of the Boat Race course, celebrates its 100th anniversary this year.
An exciting period of racing ahead - congratulations to Harry on this outstanding selection! 👏
#WestOfEnglandRowing #JIRR #Nationals #HeadOfTheRiver #Rowing @bideford_reds
🐈 A Half‑Term Heart-Warmer
Our big‑hearted domestic team has been looking after a very timid stray who appeared on our school grounds a few months ago. She was a nervous little lady at first, only brave enough to take a bit of food and shelter from a distance.
With kindness and plenty of gentle coaxing, the team earned her trust. Eventually, she felt safe enough for them to take her to the local vet for a check‑up and to see whether she was microchipped. To everyone’s surprise, the vet discovered she was chipped and managed to contact her owners. It turns out our sweet visitor has been missing for four years and had somehow found her way a very long distance from home.
Her incredibly grateful owners are collecting her from the vet today, and we couldn’t be happier that she’s finally being reunited with her family. We’ll miss her gentle presence here at school but knowing she’s going home makes it all worthwhile.
📸 #ThrowbackThursday
We are looking back to February 2023 and an unforgettable school ski trip! ⛷️❄️
After a safe arrival, following a long 24‑hour journey, our students wasted no time hitting the slopes for a fun first day of skiing. They wrapped up the day with delicious homemade pizzas, the perfect reward after hours of fresh mountain air! 🍕⛷️
And of course… the iconic Spangled Hat and Duck of the Day awards made their appearance - a daily tradition that always brought plenty of laughs! 🦆🎩
🌍✨ What is life like as an international boarder? ✨🌍
Meet Jonathan, who joined us from Germany and immediately threw himself into every opportunity West Buckland School has to offer! From quad biking, coasteering, and climbing to becoming part of the wonderfully welcoming Parkers family, he’s embraced WBS life with energy and enthusiasm.
Over the past six months, Jonathan has discovered what it truly means to live, learn, and adventure within our vibrant international community, and we could not be prouder of how fully he’s made West Buckland his home‑from‑home.
We wish him the very best of luck as he heads back to Germany. He will always be part of the WBS family!💙
#WestBucklandSchool #InternationalBoarding #BoardingLife #GlobalCommunity #StudentStories
✨ That’s a wrap! ✨
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang 2026 is officially done — and what a ride! 🚗💨✨
Three incredible nights of outstanding performances at @landmarkdevon. We are so unbelievably proud of our entire cast and crew for bringing this magical show to life. 🌟
A huge thank you to our wonderful families and our amazing sponsors for your support — we could not have done it without you! 💛🎭
⚽ Boarders Bring the Energy in Football Tournament!
Just before half term, four boarding teams hit the pitch for our second football tournament of the year - and the competition was fierce.
The plate was decided on penalties and an intense match in the final saw it all come down to a last kick that had everyone on the edge of their seats.
Huge credit to both the Wilson Wonders and West Buck Wanderers goalkeepers, who pulled off some brilliant saves throughout the evening.
A fantastic display of teamwork, determination and boarding spirit.
Photo credit: Alan C
@boardingschoolsnetwork
🧧 🐎 Parkers Boarding Gets Ready for Lunar New Year - Year of the Horse!
Our international boarders have been busy filling the house with festive Lunar New Year spirit! The decorations are up, the Karslake has prepared a special celebratory menu and boarders wrote traditional good‑luck messages and shared their culture with the community. Plus red envelopes were handed out on Wednesday morning and were received with huge excitement!
It’s been a wonderful opportunity for everyone to learn, connect, and celebrate together❤️ Wishing all who celebrate a joyful and prosperous Lunar New Year! ✨
#LunarNewYear #BoardingLife #InternationalCommunity #CulturalCelebration #YearOfTheHorse #SchoolLife #CommunitySpirit #ParkersBoarding
🌟 Happy Half-Term Break! 🌟
Today marks the end of a very busy and truly wonderful half-term. We are so proud of everything our pupils have achieved and the energy they’ve brought to school each day.
Wishing all our families a restful, fun, and well-deserved break! 💛
🏐🏆 U13 North Devon Netball Tournament Winners!
Our U13 A Team took a moment to celebrate their fantastic achievement with Mrs Lowe after being crowned North Devon Netball Tournament champions. They delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 56 goals and conceding just 8 across six matches - an incredible display of teamwork and determination.
Huge congratulations as well to our U13 B Team, who secured a brilliant second place, losing only one game by a single goal 🥈
A thrilling season so far - well done everyone 👏
#Netball #TeamWBS #U13Netball #TournamentWinners #WBSSport
🏑 Charlie Joins England Hockey Exeter Talent Academy!
Huge congratulations to Sports Scholar Charlie T, who has been selected for the England Hockey Exeter Talent Academy after being nominated by Devon County Hockey last spring.
Charlie showed incredible resilience - managing his GCSEs while recovering from a hip injury - and still rose to the challenge with determination and optimism. He impressed coaches throughout a demanding, months‑long trial process and has earned his place among an elite group of just 25 players aged 15–18.
He now looks forward to embracing the incredible opportunities the England Hockey Talent Academy offers.
A truly outstanding achievement - well done, Charlie! 🌟
@englandhockey
🏉 Year 8 Rugby Masterclass – Free Event! 🏉
Calling all keen Year 8 rugby players!
Join us on Friday 27 February, 16:30–18:30, for an action‑packed free Rugby Masterclass.
✔️ High‑quality rugby training (parents welcome to watch!)
✔️ Strength & Conditioning session to build power and confidence.
✔️ Q&A with the Head and Head of Rugby – your chance to ask anything about training, sport, and school life.
This is a brilliant opportunity to sharpen your skills, meet our coaches, and experience top‑level training.
👉 Register by 25 February using the link: https://forms.office.com/e/eaVN9x7ZBE Don’t miss out – spaces are limited! 🏉🔥
📜 History at West Buckland School
At West Buckland School, we believe history is far more than a subject - it is a powerful lens through which students learn to interpret and understand the world around them. From exploring the origins of democracy to studying the rise and fall of empires and the evolving nature of conflict, our students are encouraged to question, analyse, and think critically. 🔍🌍
Curious to learn more about how we bring history to life in the classroom?
📝 Read our latest blog post: https://westbuckland.com/blog/
🍭🍬 Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Soars on Opening Night 🚗
The cast and crew lit up a packed theatre with outstanding performances, incredible singing and dancing, seamless set changes, brilliant sound and lighting, and a superb live band adding energy to every scene.
Last night`s reviews are in - `Absolutely phenomenal! So much great talent` ⭐ `Fantasmagorical!` ⭐ `The spies were amazing` ⭐ `It was absolutely incredible – massive congratulations to the whole cast and crew!!` ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
There are only a small number of tickets left for tonight’s performance - grab yours while you still can! Use the link in our bio ☝
Photos: @howaboutdavephotography
🔢 Fantastic Maths Challenge Results! 🎉
We`re celebrating the excellent results in the UK Intermediate Mathematical Challenge, in which 64 pupils from Years 9–11 took part.
🥇 Congratulations to Fin G, Dylan P and Jack L who achieved Gold Certificates. All three have qualified for the Kangaroo follow‑on round!
We`d also like to give a big well done to:
🥈 16 pupils who achieved Silver Certificates
🥉 20 pupils who achieved Bronze certificate
The Intermediate Mathematical Challenge is aimed at the top third of pupils in Year 11 or below in England in Wales. The top 40% of students national receive gold, silver or bronze certificates.
✨ Well done to everyone who took part, and best of luck to Fin, Dylan and Jack in the Kangaroo round on Thursday 19th March!
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.
