Shebbear's success comes from focusing on each individual pupil. Set in more than 100 acres of glorious Devonshire countryside and easily accessed from 3 regional airports, railways and new fast-link roads, Shebbear has an enviable three year 'A' Level pass rate of 97.3%.
The College, founded in 1841 enjoys success in art and sport, with 12 Duke of Edinburgh Gold Awards in the current year and a succession of sporting caps for Devon, the South West and England.
One of the factors helping Shebbear's students achieve so much is the small class size, which is usually around 15 students. Another factor is the real community atmosphere, fostered by dedicated staff and centred around beautifully landscaped grounds which makes pupils feel secure and at home.
A pottery workshop, theatre and drama groups with full stage and auditorium facilities, combined Cadet Force, modern craft and design and technology workshop and sailing club are just some of the opportunities available to students. The college orchestra plays regularly in the locality and the choir, who are also active in the community, recently sang at Westminster Palace. A large, well-equipped sports hall with separate gymnasium and squash courts are popular with all ages in addition to the all weather tennis courts, 3 cricket squares, and several hockey and rugby pitches.
Apart from the normal school life facilities such as the indoor climbing wall, the largest in the West of England, and often used for competitions. Frequent visits to the theatre, art galleries and museums are enjoyed by pupils of all ages. Overseas trips are regular events and can range from 5 days in Brittany for 10/11 year olds, 3 weeks in Canada for the 1st XV Rugby Tour to a 3 week expedition to Borneo as part of a Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award scheme.
Shebbear's success is best judged by it's pupils, and it is the aim of everyone at the College to not only help students to discuss and develop their own abilities and confidence but also to nurture tolerance, understanding and kindness. It is through these qualities that Shebbear gives it's pupils 'A foundation for life'.
