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
Academic excellence is the heart of a West Buckland education because it opens doors in pupils’ lives. Our pupils challenge their knowledge and develop as balanced, accomplished individuals who can make a difference.
Our pupils gain the confidence to believe in their abilities to tackle the future, to make sound judgements and to resist the temptation to play safe. Through Christian values they learn to respect others, to be ambitious with a clear sense of purpose and to develop a balanced view of life. They are encouraged to be trail-blazers and to change expectations.
Community life can rarely be captured on a website. The only way to get a genuine feel for what we believe in and what we do is to visit, and meet the people who are the beating heart of the school.
Phillip Stapleton, Senior School Head
PERSONALISATION
We aim to nurture students and staff so that they are celebrated and leave having achieved their personal bests.
INNOVATION
We want to be leaders in offering an education which is forward thinking, extending beyond classroom constraints.
EXCELLENCE
We strive to be the school of choice for outstanding, holistic, co-education in the South West.
Behind the scenes: A day in the Life of a School Caretaker
You might have seen him during drop-offs and pick-ups. He is clearly visible in his high-vis jacket, managing traffic and ensuring our students can cross the road safely, always with a big smile and a high five. It’s not for nothing that our pre-preps have nicknamed him ‘Mr. Kind Man’.
Read More
The Phoenix Society
Founded in 1901, the Reading and Debating Society disbanded in 1926, giving rise to the Phoenix Society. This century-old institution persists, combining contemporary discussions with structured debates, influencing the intellectual development of our Sixth Form students.
Read More
Life in a British Boarding School
This week is National Boarding Week, an excellent initiative created by the Boarding Schools’ Association (BSA) that champions all the wonderful aspects associated with boarding. We would like to celebrate this week with an essay written by Viktoriia (Year 12). Her essay was shortlisted in the
Read More
The First Greenpower Car Race of the 2023 Season
In an exciting display of teamwork and determination, the WBS Flyer, our Greenpower car, took part in a remarkable race at the RMB Chivenor event this weekend. Overcoming various obstacles and challenges, the team’s relentless efforts resulted in a well-deserved victory.
Read More
North Devon’s first-ever Junior Triathlon hosted at West Buckland School
North Devon’s first Junior Triathlon at West Buckland School was a blast! Kids aged 8 to 17 took on swimming, biking, and running challenges. With awesome support and tons of fun, it was a huge success. We can’t wait for next year’s event!
Read More
International Society pitch well-being and learning projects to Kenyan Colleagues
The students in the International Society pitched two ideas for projects to support learning and well-being to our Kenyan colleagues at Agoro Oyombe, the school that we have been partners with since the early 2000s.
Read More
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 90 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
DCIM101MEDIADJI_0521.JPG
West Buckland School. Picture by Justin Beckley
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.
