Sedbergh School Launches Innovative Year 9 Partnership with David Coleman
Sedbergh School is delighted to announce an exciting new initiative with leadership expert and Royal Marines Commando veteran, David Coleman, to introduce a pioneering programme for Year 9 pupils as part of our renowned Year 9 Inspire Programme. Launching in August 2025, this initiative replaces the existing John Muir Award and Year 9 Adventure Programme, while seamlessly integrating the School’s Combined Cadet Force (CCF) and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, ensuring a holistic and cohesive approach to personal growth.
A Dynamic Learning Experience
This new collaboration builds on Sedbergh’s long-standing tradition of encouraging personal development through outdoor education, leadership, and service. David Coleman’s Civvy 2 Commando methodology—emphasizing resilience, determination, and teamwork—perfectly aligns with Sedbergh’s guiding values of Humility and Service, Ambition, Resilience, Kindness and Compassion. By combining the best elements of outdoor challenge, academic enrichment, and community engagement, pupils will graduate the course having earned their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award and gained membership within our venerated CCF regiments.
Embedding Sedbergh’s Core Values
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Yorkshire Dales and within reach of the Lake District, Sedbergh’s unique location fosters an adventurous spirit and a profound appreciation for the natural environment. This new Year 9 programme will leverage the landscape to cultivate essential life skills—ranging from teamwork and problem-solving to self-reflection and leadership—all while remaining closely tied to the core philosophy of the Year 9 Inspire Programme: to spark curiosity, confidence, and resilience in young learners.
“We are thrilled to join forces with David Coleman to craft a unique, transformative experience for our Year 9 pupils,” said Dan Harrison, Headmaster. “This programme underscores Sedbergh’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded, principled young people who are prepared to excel both within the School community and in the wider world.”
David Coleman added:
“My approach focuses on challenging young people to discover their potential, build resilience, and grow in confidence. Sedbergh’s dedication to adventure and character-building is second to none, and I’m excited to bring my experience to help Year 9 pupils thrive.”
Shaping the Future
With its innovative blend of outdoor adventure, leadership training, and character development, Sedbergh’s newest offering stands out as a one-of-a-kind programme rooted in the School’s heritage and unparalleled surroundings. By harnessing the power of nature, structured mentorship, and active service, it promises to shape the next generation of Sedberghians into leaders who are prepared, compassionate, and imbued with a strong sense of responsibility.
For more information on the Year 9 Inspire Programme and Sedbergh School’s broader co-curricular opportunities, please visit: