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
“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!
Growing up is inevitable, but how you do it is a choice. At West Buckland, we believe in nurturing our students’ 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 student’s true potential. Our inclusive and ever-exploring community provides the perfect environment for them to flourish. 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
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, we’re 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
Oscar’s 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.
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 £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
🏆 Ashmoor U18 Indoor National Finals Victory! 🏑
A huge congratulations to Luke S and the Ashmoor U18 team for their amazing performance in the Indoor Hockey National Championships this weekend! 🎉
The team was unbeaten throughout the competition and triumphed with a 5-2 victory over Epsom in the final!
Well done to Luke and the entire team for their win! 🙌
#AshmoorU18 #NationalChamps #IndoorHockey #wbssport englandhockey
South Lambs Trials at Sherborne School 🏉
On Sunday, Sam B, Semesa Q, Will B, and Henry C represented West Buckland at the South Lambs trials held at Sherborne School. The boys had the opportunity to train and compete alongside other talented pupils from independent schools across the South.
A special congratulations to Semesa and Will, who were both selected to represent the South in matches against other regions at Harrow School this coming Sunday! 🎉
We are incredibly proud of all 4 boys for their dedication and effort. Best of luck to Will and Semesa for this weekend🤞🏼
#SouthLambsTrials #TeamWork #RugbyJourney #wbssport lambsrugby
🌟 Easter Revision Course 2025 🌟
Whether you’re a student at West Buckland School or another school, we’re excited to invite you to an intensive 4-day learning experience designed to boost your exam prep and give you that extra edge as you head into your final exams.
📅 Dates: 7-10 April 2025
🏠 Options: Boarding or Day
📍 Location: West Buckland School
🎯 Goal: Focused revision, expert tuition, and interactive workshops to build your confidence and knowledge in key subjects.
This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow students across the region, receive targeted support, and refine your skills in a dynamic, collaborative environment. Whether you`re looking to deepen your understanding or get those last-minute tips, we’ve got you covered!
🔗 Sign up now: Tap the link in our bio for more!
#GCSEPreparation #HotHouseLearning #GCSE2025 #wbsmiddle
Ready to unlock your future?
Find your perfect fit at West Buckland School —a place where learning is innovative, tech meets creativity and every student receives the support they need to thrive. From an exciting curriculum, creative clubs and careers advice, it’s all here.
📅 Curious? Join us at our Sixth Form Open Evening on 28th January and discover how we can help you reach your goals.
We have a few remaining sports scholarships!
🔗 Sign up today! Click on the link in our bio!
#SixthForm #FutureReady #TechInEducation #CareerSupport #OpenEvening
A Future of Possibilities Starts Here!
📚 Curious minds flourish in the right environment—one that nurtures discovery, creativity, and growth. Join us for the Year 7 Assessment Morning on 18th January and make the move to West Buckland School, where students are encouraged to explore their passions and embrace new opportunities.
Give your child the chance to thrive in a supportive and inspiring school community.
🔗 Sign up today: https://westbuckland.com/year-7-assessment/
#FutureOfLearning #Year7 #AssessmentMorning #ExploreYourPassion #WestBucklandSchool #InspiringEducation #GrowthAndDiscovery #CuriousMinds #EducationalOpportunities #SupportingSuccess #NewBeginnings
🌟 JOIN OUR TEAM: 🌟
West Buckland School are looking for an Exams Officer to join this well-established independent school set in the foothills of Exmoor and the North Devon coastline.
The main purpose of the role is to administer all aspects of the examination process; knowledge of JCQ and awarding body regulations required.
This is mainly a part-time appointment in term time, with full-time work required at key times of the academic year.
💼 Further information and application process can be found through Linktr.ee in our bio under `Vacancies`!
🎶 Exciting News! 🎶
We’re thrilled to announce a new choral project at West Buckland School! Starting in the Spring term, we’ll begin rehearsals for the world premiere of Requiem Aeternam, a stunning new composition by our very own Mr Dominic Carter.
The premiere performance will take place on Saturday, 5th July, and we’d love for you to be part of this historic event!
📅 First Rehearsal:
🗓️ Wednesday, 15th January
⏰ 7:00 PM
📍 Memorial Hall
This project is open to all singers—whether you’re an experienced vocalist or a beginner, we’d be delighted to welcome you! Copies of the composition, published by Halstan & Co, are available for purchase.
For more details or to sign up, please contact our Director of Music at [email protected].
Let’s make history together! 🌟 #WestBucklandMusic #ChoralProject #RequiemAeternam #MusicAtWBS #wbsmusic
🎓 Ready to Ace Your Exams?
Join our Easter Revision Course from 7th–10th April and give your GCSE preparation the boost it deserves!
📚 What’s on offer?
Expert-led sessions in key subjects.
Small group sizes for personalised support.
Study in the stunning surroundings of our North Devon campus.
💬 Don’t just take our word for it:
"The small group sizes meant I could ask questions and really understand tricky topics. It made such a difference!"
📅 Limited spaces available—book your spot today!
🔗 Click the link in our bio to register.
#EasterRevision #GCSEExams #ExamSuccess #WestBucklandSchool #StudySmart
📣 Last Call for Year 7 Entries!
Join us on Saturday, 18th January, for our Year 7 Assessment Morning at West Buckland School.
This is your chance to explore a school where independence, creativity and ambition thrive!
📩 Don’t miss out – email [email protected] to secure your place.
#wbsnn
Join us for West Buckland School`s Sixth Form Open Evening! 🌟
📅 Tuesday, 28th January, 6:30 pm
Discover how we empower students to achieve their dreams with:
✨ Outstanding academic results
✨ Expert teaching and pastoral care
✨ Exciting opportunities beyond the classroom
🔍 Explore our facilities, meet our teachers and learn about scholarships and personalised pathways.
From international trips and leadership programmes to creative arts and eco-projects, West Buckland Sixth Form prepares students for life and success beyond school.
🎯 With dedicated careers advice, we help students achieve their aspirations from top universities to future careers.
📆 Save the date and sign up via the link in our bio – we can’t wait to welcome you! 🚀
#wbsnn
Discover why Laura, a Year 10 student from Spain, describes her term at West Buckland School as life-changing. From forging lasting friendships with students from around the globe to enjoying action-packed weekend adventures like surfing and quad biking, Laura’s journey highlights the excitement, independence and sense of belonging that boarding at WBS offers. Read her full story via the link in our bio ✨.
🎄 Spreading Festive Cheer with West Buckland School 🎁
A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful community for supporting this year’s Gift-Giving Tree initiative in aid of North Devon Hospice.
📸 Look at this amazing collection of thoughtful gifts! Your generosity will bring joy to patients and families spending Christmas at the hospice. From lavender eye masks to miniature Christmas trees, each gift is a symbol of care and kindness.
💖 Together, we’ve made this festive season brighter for those who need it most. Thank you for making a difference!
#wbscommunity
This week, our Prep School students performed Christmas carols in the historic East Buckland Church, filling the space with festive spirit and song. A wonderful way to celebrate the season! ✨
#WestBucklandSchool #PrepSchool #ChristmasCarols #FestiveSeason #wbsprep
✨ On Monday, 9th December, the Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW) hosted their Welcome Event for the new team of Young Ambassadors, featuring talented Year 12 students.
We’re thrilled that 11 students from West Buckland School applied for this prestigious programme, excelling in their interviews and making us incredibly proud with how they represented themselves and the school.
As a charity, volunteers are a critical part of the organisation and help with the work in many varied ways. Their time as a Young Ambassador will make a valuable contribution to the work of CHSW and they will support many of the fundraising activities which will enable care to be provided to children, young people and their families across the South West.
The Young Ambassadors will attend training events and may visit Little Bridge House, on occasions. The training will take place during January and will include presentation skills, fundraising codes of practice, learning about CHSW as an organisation and organising events. The Young Ambassadors will be asked to represent CHSW as a volunteer in various fundraising events.
#wbssixthform
🌟 A huge congratulations to our fabulous Stars of the Week! 🎄✨Keep up the fantastic work ✨
#wbsprep
Our Year 10 and 12 students are off to a strong start on Dartmoor with Ten Tors! 🏞️They’ve already completed a Silver/Gold Practice weekend, with Year 12 wild camping and Year 10 staying in a bunk house. Both groups have also finished the Mountain Training Hill Skills course. 👣
Last weekend, they took part in a 6-hour outdoor first aid course. 🚑
This year, we’re aiming to enter 4 teams: two 35-mile and two 45-mile teams, plus some independent students tackling the 55-mile challenge! 💪 #WBS #TenTors #OutdoorAdventures #Year10 #Year12 #Dartmoor #MountainSkills
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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.
