'We believe we are a leading school because we develop inquisitive thinkers with a love of learning who cherish independent thought. Bedales' founder, John Badley, believed that involving "head, hand and heart" was the key to growth and development. This is still the cornerstone around which our innovative education system is built. Relationships are important at Bedales; students and staff shake hands after assembly as a way of formalising mutual respect, which, along with co-operation, trust and tolerance, knit our community together.'
Together with its junior school (Dunhurst) and pre-prep (Dunannie), Bedales has been providing an innovative co-educational boarding school education for over 100 years at its stunning location on the edge of the South Downs in Hampshire.
If you wish your child to grow up as a name rather than a number, Bedales may be the right choice for you. We are a school willing to stand up to the educational establishment, encouraging children to be themselves in a creative and stimulating environment, which means we are constantly changing and responding to meet their needs. Many schools have mourned the gradual devaluation of GCSEs, but few have come up with a solution. In September 2006, Bedales introduced the innovative Bedales Assessed Courses (BACs) to complement GCSEs and to stimulate students and staff to pursue their interests and
areas of expertise.
We have a wonderful oak-beamed library and theatre, where craftsmanship and engagement with the beauty of materials and form, embody our founder's ideal of developing 'head, hand and heart'. A Bedales education encompasses not only 'brain work'
(as in academic study), but also 'hand work' (as in work on our farm, perhaps with the animals, or in the forge or the bakehouse). A strong ethical thread runs through the school;
a huge variety of fundraising events - many of which are organised by the students - take
place throughout the year.
The community at Bedales is distinctive, defined by individuals who are at ease with themselves and relaxed with others. Our 'no fear' culture reigns both in and outside the classroom. Students speak up without worrying about making a mistake. We actively encourage them to ask lots of questions. This expansive approach opens their minds and stimulates independent thinkers who are well prepared for life beyond Bedales. Our students arrive at similar destinations to those in more formal educational settings. They have just taken a different route. Universities warm to Bedalians because they have a fearless non-conformity of thought, and an ability to cope with the freedom which some students from more formal schools can find overwhelming.
School Criteria
Independent private co-educational day/boarding school in Hampshire, England. 13 to 18, 451+ pupils, Non-denom.
For further related information, including Inspection Reports, Reviews, Alumni, Recruitment, Academic Results, School Website, Local Roadmaps, Aerial Photos, School News and Area Information, see the Independent Schools Directory entry for Bedales School.
