Bedales School
Bedales School
Petersfield, England
Bedales is a proudly unconventional boarding school, where creativity is woven into every aspect of life. Its credo says it all: “an education for the head, the heart and the hand.” Art and music are particular strengths, but at its core lies an ethos: pupils are encouraged to develop their own personality, to think independently and to voice their opinions with confidence.
The Essentials
The Details
The Academics
Bedales consistently delivers strong exam results. In 2024, pupils achieved 65% grades 9–7 at GCSE/BAC and 31% A grades at A level – impressive outcomes for a school with no tough entry requirements.
Not a fan of the GCSEs (too restrictive!), Bedales introduced its own Bedales Assessed Courses (BACs) five years ago. Alongside traditional GCSE subjects, pupils can now take distinctive options such as Classical Music, Digital Game Design, Product Design and Sports Science.
Languages Taught
French, Spanish, Russian and Japanese.
The Boarding
Around 70% of pupils board seven days a week, with only about 8% from overseas – relatively few by UK boarding standards. Boarding houses are cosy, just a couple of minutes’ walk from campus, with shared rooms of two or more. Weekends are relaxed and sociable – think pizzas fresh from the school’s own pizza oven, or trips to the cinema and bowling.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
Bedales has an outstanding creative offer! Whether it’s music, dance, art, theatre or design, pupils receive inspiring, motivating teaching. The very best in the UK? Very possible!
A real highlight is the Design department, superbly equipped and specialising in areas such as product and furniture, jewellery and fashion. Courses are taught by practising experts, not just ordinary teachers – perfect preparation for anyone considering design at university.
Above all, Bedales places strong emphasis on each individual’s personal development. Pupils are encouraged to question, to think independently and to form opinions of their own.
Weaknesses
Some families feel that Bedales places a little too much emphasis on individualism – and we do occasionally hear of pupils taking advantage of the freedoms on offer. Thankfully, this seems to be the exception rather than the rule.
Location
Bedales School is set just outside the charming market town of Petersfield in Hampshire. Surrounded by rolling countryside, it offers the best of both worlds – a peaceful rural setting with the cafés, shops and train connections of Petersfield only minutes away. London can be reached in just over an hour by train, making the school both idyllic and accessible.
Heathrow Airport - 1hr 10 mins by car
Portsmouth - 30 mins by car
A beautiful school with a unique educational approach, where creativity and individuality take centre stage.
To see what Bedales is really about, take a look at the Enrichment Programmes – especially Outdoor Work and the Extended Projects. Here pupils create imaginative, hands-on work that goes far beyond the classroom, often showcased in exhibitions or performances open to the public.
Take a look at similar schools
Bryanston School
Frensham Heights School
Sidcot School
30 Years experience in the UK boarding school placements
For over 30 years, we have been guiding families in choosing the right British boarding school. This makes us one of the first and only agencies to specialise exclusively in this field. Our experience makes all the difference. Find out why that matters here.
Want to discuss any of the schools?
Please never hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. One of our consultants will be more than happy to talk to you and your child.