St. Bede's takes pride in the variety of its students; they ensure that the community lacks an unhealthy academic 'hot-house' atmosphere. However, the large (180+) successful sixth-form delivers Oxbridge success each year, sends virtually all to University and, at the same time, gains remarkable results for those who entered the school with very limited academic horizons. A staff student ratio of 1:8 and imaginatively organised courses explain why this happens.
It provides a quite exceptional range of courses and extra-curricular activities through which it is possible for all boys and girls to feel that they are special and, therefore, it is a school in which morale is exceptionally high. All members of staff are involved in the extra-curricular programme. The School has a fine sporting tradition and has proved a place where those with ambitions on the national, or international, stage can flourish. Facilities include a championship-sized indoor pool, riding stables and practice golf course. It does not, however, let it be felt that sport is anything more than any of the other aspects of life at which it is possible to excel. Thus in Art, Music, Drama, and in such diverse matters as farming, engineering and literary endeavours there is a high standard of performance.
That a boy or girl can be different and at ease is helped greatly by the fact that many nations are represented in the School and this is believed to be a vital element in modern education. All our students are aware that everyone they meet is superior to them in a number of ways and that they, themselves, are people who are met and thus equally blessed; if they are not so aware then they will hear that message loud and clear.
St. Bede's is an open-minded, challenging school blessed with a lovely physical setting and, we believe, is right up-to-date in its thinking, both materially and spiritually.
Alumni - St Bede's Former Pupils' Association has been set up to allow 'networking' to take place between former pupils. Several clubs are run by members such as football, squash, tennis and mixed hockey. Each year there is a reunion at the School and a Yearbook published.
