WB

ISIDay & boardingChurch of England

Barnstaple, United Kingdom Day & boarding · Co-ed Age range 3–18 603 pupils Founded 1858

West Buckland School

Situated in the picturesque countryside of North Devon, West Buckland School offers a nurturing and inspiring environment for children to thrive academical...

Founded 1858 by the Earl Fortescue — 168-year historyCo-educational since 1979≈603 pupils with substantial boarding populationSet on a 100-acre rural campus on Exmoor National Park, DevonHMC and BSA memberSubstantial bursary programme

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About West Buckland School

West Buckland School was founded in 1858 by the 2nd Earl Fortescue as a Church of England boys' boarding school in the Devon countryside. The school operates today on a 100-acre rural campus on the edge of Exmoor National Park, in north Devon. West Buckland became co-educational in 1979 and today educates around 603 pupils with a substantial boarding population. The Headmaster is Phillip Stapleton. The school is a member of the HMC and the Boarding Schools Association. The Exmoor National Park location supports a strong outdoor pursuits programme. The school operates a substantial bursary programme.

Programmes & strengths

SciencesMathematicsModern languagesMusicDramaSport

University destinations

OxbridgeRussell Group (Exeter, Bristol, Cambridge)Medical schoolsRoyal Naval College Dartmouth

Memberships & accreditations

HMCBSAISI

Pupil breakdown

Boys: 316 (52%)
Girls: 287 (48%)
SEN support: 190 (31.5%)
SEN EHCP: 4 (0.7%)

Notable alumni

Old West Buckland pupils active in West Country professions and the Royal Navy

Address

West Buckland, Barnstaple, EX32 0SX

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Contact

Frequently asked questions

What type of school is West Buckland School?

West Buckland School is a co-educational independent mainstream school for pupils aged 3 to 18, located near Barnstaple in Devon. The school offers education from Nursery through to Sixth Form, with pathways leading to GCSEs and A Levels.

How do I apply to West Buckland School?

Applications typically begin 1–2 years in advance and may include registration, assessments and interviews. Families can explore the UK private school admissions timeline to understand key dates and entry points. https://schoolscout.uk/posts/uk-private-school-admissions-timeline

What are the fees at West Buckland School?

Fees for West Buckland School vary by year group, with typical termly costs around £3,370–£15,351.

Is West Buckland School a day or boarding school?

West Buckland School is a day and boarding school.

Is West Buckland School selective?

Entry to West Buckland School is based on overall fit and, where relevant, academic assessment.