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Celebrating 500 years!
Half-term seems a distant memory already; Sedbergh has roared back to life with a week packed full of achievement, inspiration and well-earned recognition. We've celebrated Upper Sixth pupil Archie signing his first professional deal with Northampton Saints. Academy Head Coach Charlie Reed called him “a fantastic role model… someone who will add a great deal to the senior environment”—praise that speaks volumes about Archie’s work ethic and team spirit.
On campus, assembly brought appreciation for Phoenix, who received a coveted Brown Blazer for his contribution to school life spanning drama, music, sport and—crucially—pupil welfare. A Diana Award counter-bullying ambassador, Deputy Head of School and tireless advocate for kindness, Phoenix embodies every one of our core values.
Years 9 and 10 met Dr Ripley, who returned to deliver a hands-on CPR masterclass—before the week rounded off with Commendation Drinks in the Headmaster’s Study, celebrating the academic performance of pupils who are excelling in their exams as we near the end of the year.
Last, but not least, our equestrian team delivered an unforgettable performance to be crowned Reserve National Schools Champions in the 80 Eventers Challenge at Hickstead!
If this whirlwind of success is any indication, the second half of term promises plenty more headlines.
View the Sports Report and Performing Arts Report. The programme for our May Gala Weekend can now be viewed online.
Image: Sedbergh School Equestrian team photo in the sunshine!
2025 Tatler Schools Guide Awards
Tatler is now gathering votes for its 2025 Schools Guide, and every parent voice counts. If Sedbergh has made a difference to your child’s life—through its full-boarding spirit, exceptional teaching or unrivalled pastoral care—please take a moment to nominate us. Your vote helps showcase our community’s achievements to a wider audience and secures the recognition Sedbergh deserves.
9Inspire Day
On Thursday 22 May, our PE Department ran 9Inspire Day—a half-day carousel of workshops and talks that showed pupils sport is far more than competition and physical fitness. In addition to inspiring talks by two Olympians (see below), groups moved between three hands-on sessions: Psychology & Mental Strength, Nutrition & Recovery and Motor Skills Under Pressure, each session linking classroom theory to real-world performance.
Nick Gleeson (bobsleigh and Parachute Regiment) spoke about discipline, teamwork and the military pathway into elite sport, while Mica Moore (bobsleigh and former international sprinter) shared her story of adaptability, identity and breaking barriers in dual careers.
History of Sedbergh School in 50 Objects #21: Knowles Pavilion 1913
Knowles pavilion is one of the real jewels of Sedbergh School. The building has remained the heart of cricket at Sedbergh, the lower floor dedicated to celebrating the history of the sport, with photographs, honours boards and a display of artefacts on view. This iconic building is home to our longest played sport - Cricket has been played at Sedbergh since 1841 - and holds memories for so many in our community.
The donor of Knowles pavilion, Eric Walter Knowles (S 1901 – 05) was himself a keen cricketer at School making the first team, as well as appearing on the XV and in frequent athletics fixtures.
Don't miss object #20, the first Brown Book!
Sedbergh Crowned Reserve National Schools Champions at Hickstead
Over the half-term break Sedbergh School delivered an unforgettable performance to be crowned Reserve National Schools Champions in the 80 Eventers Challenge at Hickstead, a marathon class that stretched over ten hours.
The triumphant line-up—Elsie, Sophie, Lily and Izzy—delivered a sparkling display of composure, teamwork and athletic flair.
The Midsummer Night Party
Join the Headmaster for a spectacular evening on Midsummer Night, Saturday 21st June.
Overlooking Winder, we will celebrate five centuries of tradition, excellence, and community, and you will have the opportunity to take part in an exclusive occasion involving:
- Headmaster Dan Harrison will deliver a message from the King in recognition of our 500th anniversary. Mr Harrison will carry this special message 90 miles in a run from York to Sedbergh.
- A champagne reception with canapes, followed by a 3-course dinner in a beautiful marquee on Buskholme.
- A torchlit procession up Winder with the School (optional).
- Singing ‘O Valiant Hearts’ back at the Cloisters.
- Sign the Scroll, replicating the one signed by those taking part in the 1925 ceremony, which will be displayed as a permanent feature on the School site.
To attend this unique day, we ask people to subscribe to paying £15.25 per month for 5 years (£30.50 per couple for 5 years) or a one-off payment of £800 per person.
Learn more or join us.
