As the festive season approaches, I want to take a moment to reflect on what has been a remarkable year at Sedbergh School. From academic achievements to artistic triumphs, sporting successes, and countless moments of kindness and camaraderie, our community has once again shown the strength of its spirit and the depth of its talent.

Christmas is a time to pause, to give thanks, and to look forward with hope. It is also a time to remember those less fortunate than ourselves. I am immensely proud of the generosity shown by our pupils, parents, and staff through the many fundraising initiatives and acts of service this term—true reflections of the values we hold dear as a school.

As we prepare to enter 2025, a landmark year in our history, I am filled with gratitude for all that Sedbergh has achieved and excitement for the future ahead. Our 500th anniversary celebrations will provide wonderful opportunities to honour our heritage, strengthen our community, and inspire the next generation.

To our pupils and families, staff, alumni, and friends around the world, I wish you a peaceful, joyous Christmas and a New Year filled with happiness and success. Thank you for being part of the Sedbergh story.

With warmest wishes, Dan Harrison, Headmaster

Countdown to Bridgewater Hall (BOOK) begins... 

December - the festive round up

And that's a wrap! We can't possibly do justice to the full range of activities that our pupils have enjoyed in the lead-up to the end of term. We hope that you'll enjoy reading the list of highlights below - although we apologise in advance that it is not, and cannot be, complete!  

As part of the 9 Inspire curriculum, Year 9 pupils summited Winder in the company of Old Sedberghian and Everest climber Matt Dickinson.

Junior and Senior House rugby was a muddy affair, creating extraordinary challenges for the laundry team, showcasing heroic displays of skill from many—and culminating in ultimate triumph for Sedgwick juniors! The Senior final is yet to be played.

House hockey, although thankfully less muddy, was just as fiercely contested! Congratulations to this year's winners: Robertson seniors and Lupton juniors!

If you were able to join us, you'll already know that our extraordinary music department once again delighted us with stunning performances at the Ceremony of Carols and the Carol Service.

Excursions to London and Edinburgh provided A Level Drama and Art students with invaluable opportunities: seeing Guys & Dolls at the Bridge Theatre and gaining inspiration for their work, respectively.

View the Sports Report and Performing Arts Report. 

Sedbergh Gives Back 2024

Chicago!

An Evening with Great British Chefs, Jason ‘Bruno’ Birkbeck and Nina Matsunaga

As Storm Darragh raged outside, our pupils were treated to a sublime gastronomic lesson from two of the nations finest chefs; Nina Matsunaga and Jason ‘Bruno’ Birkbeck. Pupils enjoyed a discussion about environmental sustainability in the context of the food we eat, each individual chef's personal journey and philosophy.... and, of course, a taste of the meals prepared! 

Last chance to buy Wolfberry Gin for Christmas!

Priced at £50, including P&P, all profits go towards supporting the Roger Lupton Scholarships and Bursaries Fund.

Wolfberry Gin is a special collaboration of the Sedbergh School Foundation with Three Wrens Cheshire Distillery to mark the 500th anniversary of Sedbergh School in 2025. The warm flavours of this gin make it a wonderful addition to every Sedberghian's Christmas drinks cabinet. Limited Edition: 400 bottles (less than 100 bottles remaining).

Please drink responsibly. www.drinkaware.co.uk 

Kirkby Lonsdale fire

Old Sedberghians and members of the School may have seen the news of a major fire that has damaged the centre of Kirkby Lonsdale, just ten miles from Sedbergh. Tragically, one man lost his life in the blaze, and another was injured.

While the town centre is gradually reopening as the affected area is made safe, the fire could not have come at a worse time for traders in this historic market town. The busy Christmas period has been brought to a halt as the High Street remains closed.

At Sedbergh School, we have many connections to Kirkby Lonsdale, including an Old Sedberghian who recently opened a jewellery store there.

If you’re looking for inspiration for special gifts, haven’t yet finished your Christmas shopping, or even if you have, please consider supporting the local businesses in Kirkby Lonsdale. You can explore their websites here: https://www.kirkbylonsdale.co.uk/shop/ - for jewellery at Josh Redmayne’s (H) store visit www.jtrjewellery.co.uk.