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 Kate Corbin, Acting Head and Deputy Head Pastoral
βThe highest reward for your toil is not what you get for it but what you become by it.β John Ruskin
Welcome from Kate Corbin, Acting Head of School
Celebrating our rich history while embracing the future is at the heart of my vision for our school.
Our school is a place where innovation and enterprise thrive, empowering our pupils to make their mark in whatever field they choose to excel in.Β As a proud former pupil, I reflect on the years I spent at West Buckland, making lifelong friends, building essential skills for my future, and exploring a wide range of academic, sporting, and co-curricular opportunities.
We are leaders in school sustainability and work diligently to minimize our impact on our beautiful campus and the wider North Devon area. Our location offers safety, abundant opportunities, and endless inspiration, all of which are crucial in shaping the young people we are privileged to work with.
Words and pictures can only convey so much, so I warmly invite you to visit us and experience first hand our kind, innovative, and vibrant community.
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.
Kate Corbin, Acting Head of School
Laura’s Testimonial: A Term at West Buckland School
Laura, a student from Spain, spent a term at West Buckland School and described it as life-changing. She formed lasting friendships, gained independence and enjoyed exciting weekend activities like surfing and quad biking. Find out what made her experience so unforgettable!
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CCF Mess Dinner
West Buckland CCF proudly hosted its first Mess Dinner in nearly three years, bringing together cadets, parents and special guests for a memorable evening. With inspiring speeches, promotions and awards, the event celebrated the dedication, achievements and teamwork of our cadets in style.
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South West Computational Thinking Cup
On 22nd November, over 100 students from across the South West gathered at Millfield to flex their problem-solving muscles in the South West Computational Thinking Cup. West Buckland School proudly entered six teams showcasing teamwork, determination and creativity in tackling a range of challenging puzzles.
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Boarding Activities
This term has been an exciting whirlwind of activities for our boarders at West Buckland School. From adventurous outdoor pursuits to cosy evenings of creativity and connection, our students have embraced every opportunity to bond, grow and make lasting memories. Here’s a snapshot of the incredible experiences that have defined this term for our boarding community.
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Strengthening Educational and Business Ties
As the 170th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and the U.K. approaches, and following the recent encouragement from Thai Commerce Minister Khun Pichai Naripthaphan for U.K. businesses to invest in Thailand, it was both an honour and privilege for Rob Paler, Director of Education and Global Partnerships at West Buckland School, to participate in the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) mission to Southeast Asia.
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Crafting Nutritious, Seasonal Meals at West Buckland School
At West Buckland School, weβre 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
Oscarβs 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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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 Β£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
π Our Year 9 Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) embraced adventure and showed resilience by completing their bronze DofE practice through either walking, paddles sports or horse riding.
They enjoyed exploring new places and facing fresh challenges while making memories with their friends.
#wbsmiddle #DofE #outdoorlearning
π₯Help your child discover their passion with a West Buckland Prep School education.
Our broad and innovative extracurricular programme offers learning beyond the classroom, as Sarah Phillips, our Acting Head of Prep, explains - check out the video in our bio.
π£ Next Open Day - Monday 5 May, 9:30-12 noon. Sign up on our website!
#wbsprep #learning #primaryeducation #independentschool #openday2025
πΊ Swing at the Sands `25
Join us for an unforgettable evening of music with West Buckland Jazz. Saunton Sands Hotel`s elegant ballroom is the perfect setting for a delicious buffet supper accompanied by a mix of classic and contemporary jazz and swing tunes. We can`t wait!
ποΈ Get your tickets now: https://westbuckland.com/swingatthesands25
#sauntonsands #wbsmusic #WestBucklandJazz
β Our Prep School nurtures a love of learning from an early age. Small class sizes and high quality teaching allow our curriculum to go into greater depth and support a personalised education.
Find out what makes West Buckland Prep School so special; Sarah Phillips, our Acting Head of Prep, explains more - check out the video in our bio.
π£ Next Open Day - Monday 5 May, 9:30 - 12 noon. Sign up on our website!
#wbsprep #learning #primaryeducation #independentschool #openday2025
ποΈ Congratulations to our 28 Year-9 cadets for completing 3 months of CCF BASIC training! The cadets gave their Promise to be loyal, dutiful, honest and hard working to their Contingent and to the Cap Badge which they represent.
Cadets joined either the Army Section (6 Rifles Reserve Battalion cap badge) or the RAF Air Cadet Section. The cadets explored various syllabus topics, including drill and uniform, radio communication, navigation, leadership, and team-building. Our Air Cadets programme expands into learning airfield layouts, flight simulator experiences and the history of flight. Our newest Air Cadet recruits can now sign up for Air Experience Flights and Gliding Induction Flights at Predannack Airfield, Cornwall.
With the highest level of Y9 cadet retention for over 3 years, we are positive that our inspirational programme has instilled a promising future for our cadetsβ personal development and leadership qualities.
#wbsmiddle #wbsixthform #CCFBASICStraining #resilience
πΎ Summer term is in full swing which means our courts are buzzing with activity!
The West Buckland School Tennis Academy provides a top-tier, year-round tennis programme designed to cater to players of all levels and giving the opportunity to play for around seven hours per week.
With two highly qualified and experienced coaches - our Head of Tennis being a Level 5 Master coach, PCA, Registered Pro - seven hard courts and twelve astro courts available during the summer, our facilities are second to none.
From Prep all the way through to Sixth Form, our comprehensive programme includes school, squad and performance tiers, ensuring every player has the opportunity to develop their skills and compete at the highest level.
π₯ Find out more about our Tennis Academy by following the link in our bio
π₯ Or see the facilities for yourself by signing up to our Open Day on the 5th of May - link also in bio!
@westbucklandsport #mayopenday #yearroundtennis #wbsprep #wbsmiddle #wbssixth
Today on Earth Day we want to recognise our Grounds Team and celebrate the wonderful work they do to maintain our outdoor spaces including our wildflower meadow, wildlife habitats, hedge management and tree planting.
We`re proud to be an Eco School - find out more about our sustainability work here at West Buckland School: https://westbuckland.com/sustainability/
#EarthDay2025
πΌ Wishing everyone a happy Easter! πΌ
We look forward to welcome our students - including our new international students - back to school very soon.
From the moment they set off, runners are dreaming of the finish line π
It`s always great to see crowds of spectators and finishers cheer on each runner as they complete their Exmoor.
For the top 3 runners of each race, there are medals and silverware. And this year every runner that completed their race was awarded a commemorative Exmoor pin badge or keyring π
That`s a wrap for Exmoor 2025 ππ½ββοΈππ½ββοΈ
#wbssport #ExmoorRun2025 @willhp.studio
π Still to confirm your childβs primary school? Discover excellent education without exception at West Buckland School.
Setting the highest standards for early years learning, West Buckland School Prep offers the perfect start to your childβs education. With extensive facilities and state-of-the-art technology, our small class sizes and specialist teachers allow a personalised experience to suit each child.
β Lifelong excellence, our unique difference.
Learn more at www.westbuckland.com or use the link in our bio
See it for yourself at our May Open Day on Monday 5th May. Reserve your place now: www.westbuckland.com/may-open-day/
Speak to us today β call our Admissions Team on 01598 760000 or email [email protected]
#wbsprep #learning #primaryeducation #independantschool
π Year 11 GCSE Drama Play (7 of 7): `The Memory of Water`
Our final GCSE play showcased Caitlin B, Beatrice C, and Scarlett N in their brilliant rendition of Shelagh Stephenson`s Olivier Award-Winning comedy, `The Memory of Water`.
Each actor delivered mature, sensitive, and hilarious performances, portraying three uniquely different sisters who reunite for their mother`s funeral. The sisters` wildly contrasting personalities caused sparks to fly and havoc to ensue!
#wbsdrama #GCSEDrama
π¦Ί It takes over 50 marshals to guide our Exmoor runners back to School β so letβs hear it for this yearβs marshals!
Spread out across the course in 11 groups and always ready with a high five and a cheer, our marshals are an essential part of Exmoor Day. And this time, year 6 joined the team as βThe Angelsβ, looking after the first section of the Kinsford Full on the highest point of the race over the Fyldon Common.
Thank you to all our marshals, helpers and the staff team behind Exmoor 2025! ππ
Still to come - pics of the finish and prize giving...
#wbssport #ExmoorRun2025 @willhp.studio
π’ Join us on Bank Holiday Monday, May 5th for our Whole School Open Day.
Discover excellent education, without exception. Explore our state-of-the-art facilities and meet our passionate staff and brilliant students.
If you`re curious about a West Buckland School education, register now at: westbuckland.com/may-open-day
#wbsprep #wbsmiddle #wbssixthform
π What a week for DofE assessed expeditions in the Brecon Beacons! π
Last week, our Gold DofE hikers spent 4 days on their expedition while Silver DofE hikers spent 3 days on theirs. All showed great comradery, team work and navigational skills, coming home tired and happy after a truly memorable trip.
Our Y9 were also able to practice tent skills for their upcoming DofE training and assessments later in the year. Well done, everyone! π
#dukeofedinburghsaward #golddofe #silverdofe #breconbeacons #OutdoorLearning
We`re always happy to include alumni and members of the West Buckland School community to run for the OWBA on Exmoor Day πββππΎ
This year we had a record number of entries, impressive run times and - most importantly - smiles all round!
Congratulations to our OWBA runners ππ
None of this would be possible without our squad of marshals - photos coming soon!
#wbssport #ExmoorRun2025 @willhp.studio @wbs_owba
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.
