Since announcing the change that Saturday lessons will be non-compulsory from September 2021, Bedstone College has seen enquiries reach an unprecedented level.

Bedstone College’s Headmaster, Mr Toby Mullins, has seen enquiries reach an unprecedented level for this time of year, including a large number of new pupils who will be joining at the start of the Autumn Term.

Mr Mullins believes there are three main reasons for the interest from parents and pupils alike: “Firstly, the change to our timetable means more family time at weekends. Secondly, Bedstone’s traditional values and rural location blend academic achievement and extra-curricular activities, from National Maths Challenges to hosting the annual ISA Midlands Cross-Country.”

“Thirdly, both international and UK parents see our idyllic setting in South Shropshire as a safe haven in the current climate, with large school grounds and surrounding countryside being seen my many as the ideal combination for their children to relax and enjoy their education.”

“We always want to build on Bedstone’s strong reputation, with an exciting set of opt-in Saturday activities, flexi-boarding options, expanded Sixth Form Programme, and working with CReSTeD to be a Learning Support Centre school.”

In place of Saturday lessons, there will be a new and exciting programme of 5 categories of activities for boarders to take part in, which day students can also choose to attend as well:

1. Enrichment – activities away from Bedstone’s campus, including the Theatre, Arts, Community/Volunteering and attendance at a variety of match day sports events
2. Talent Identification and Employability – masterclasses in life and career skills, high value experiences, role play (such as Dragon’s Den), presentation skills and language development
3. Sports – school and community fixtures, skills development, links with local clubs and the opportunity to take part in new initiatives (e.g. Martial Arts and Gymnastics)
4. Well-Being and Recuperation – consciously taking time out, whether yoga, dance, walks, biking, running or just down time
5. Academic Extension – as demand requires, there will be options for extra classes, Top-ups, new qualifications, national school challenge events and external speakers  

Designed to complement Bedstone’s existing academic focus, the new programme will develop students’ abilities, interests and passions, as well as provide an opportunity to discover new skills. The intent is also to enable new activities to be added and apply a level of flexibility which means the experience for all students will be engaging and of value.

The innovative approach is not limited to current students, as there will be 2 Open Days each term, allowing prospective students and parents to attend a Saturday Morning offering activities, tour and the opportunity to meet current students and parents. It’s a change from the usual approach, with a choice of activities for students to take part in, building on the success of the School’s Saturday Academy model which was introduced in the previous Summer Term and delivered over 400 hours of learning time for local Year 5 and 6 Primary School students, including Science, Music and Cricket.

Bedstone is a co-educational day and boarding school committed to supporting every pupil to be the best they can be, and the school’s commitment to tailored learning and all-round education is at the forefront of what is provided, at all times.

By Mr Toby Mullins, Headmaster of Bedstone College

Bedstone’s doors are open to new registrations and prospective parents can contact the Admissions Team at admissions@bedstone.org or call 01547 530961 for more information to secure your child’s place to enjoy the Bedstone experience.