Bedales School
Petersfield, Hampshire · GU32 2DG
Bedales is a distinctive co-educational day and boarding school founded in 1893, set on a 120-acre rural campus in Hampshire. The school embraces a progressive ethos centred on creativity, intellectual curiosity, and individuality, balancing academic rigour with ambitious imaginative expression. It pioneers innovative assessment methods and emphasises whole-person education through collaborative learning, environmental stewardship, and real-world experience, guided by its founding motto 'work of each for weal of all'.
- →Progressive, pupil-centred approach that values creative expression and personal agency alongside academic challenge
- →Innovative assessment and curriculum design (Bedales Assessed Courses), avoiding traditional exam pressure
- →Exceptional creative and expressive arts provision with RIBA award-winning facilities and a strong arts culture
- →Rural 120-acre campus offering outdoor exploration, working farm, and holistic development
- →Inclusive, warm community ethos where diverse talents are celebrated and every pupil has a meaningful role
Who thrives here
Bedales suits intellectually curious, creative, independent-minded pupils who thrive in a progressive, non-pressurised environment and value personalised learning pathways. It particularly attracts families seeking alternatives to traditional exam-focused schooling and those prioritising arts, environmental values, and self-directed learning.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
Church Road, Steep
Petersfield, Hampshire
GU32 2DG
Nearest stations
Notable alumni
James Herriot
Veterinary surgeon and author (All Creatures Great and Small)
Edward Woodward
Actor (The Equalizer, Callan)
Johnny Ball
Mathematician, broadcaster and presenter
Recent investment
Frequently asked questions
How do you get into Bedales School?
Bedales School admits pupils at 3+, 4+, 7+, 8+, 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by 11+ Selective Examination. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
What are Bedales School's exam results?
At Bedales School, 17.8% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 46.7% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is Bedales School a boarding school?
Bedales School offers boarding as well as day places.
What is Bedales School's latest inspection rating?
ISI rated Bedales School “Excellent” (2022).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Nurturing, inclusive community ethos where individuality is celebrated
✓Exceptional creative arts provision and facilities; strong expressive culture
✓Progressive, child-centred approach that fosters independent thinking and genuine love of learning
✓Beautiful, inspiring rural campus and innovative learning spaces
✓Staff accessibility, warmth and genuine care for whole-child development
✓Diverse student body with multiple pathways to success beyond academics
Common concerns
!Limited traditional exam preparation focus may disadvantage pupils later seeking highly competitive academic routes
!Rural location and boarding-skewed culture may isolate day pupils or those seeking urban proximity
!Fee levels and boarding costs prohibitive for many families despite bursary availability
!Innovative assessment model less familiar to universities, potentially requiring additional explanation of achievement