Sedbergh School is one of England’s oldest and most respected boarding schools, founded in 1525 by Roger Lupton, Provost of Eton. Set in the town of Sedbergh in Cumbria, the school grew from its early days as a Chantry School into a major grammar school and eventually into the modern independent school it is today. Its long connection with St John’s College, Cambridge helped the school survive the dissolution of the chantries under Henry VIII, anchoring its academic legacy for centuries.
Through the 19th and 20th centuries Sedbergh expanded rapidly, building new houses, a chapel, academic facilities and a strong house system that still defines school life. Known for its unique traditions, the school hosts the famous Wilson Run, a ten mile fell race that has been a hallmark of Sedbergh for over a century. The school also maintains extensive heritage features including its chapel, historic cloisters and memorials recognising Sedberghians who served in major conflicts.
Today Sedbergh is a co educational boarding and day school with a junior school and an international campus in China. It has a powerful reputation for sport, particularly rugby, producing England captains and international athletes across multiple codes. Alongside sport, Sedbergh is known for high academic standards, outdoor education, musical and cultural life and a strong pastoral environment. Despite its age, the school has adapted well to modern education while holding onto the values and traditions that define its identity.