Pathways: Where Sedbergh Pupils Go

Equipping pupils not simply to move on, but to move forward — with direction, confidence and the freedom to pursue pathways as individual as they are.

Different paths, different strengths

Every pupil’s journey beyond Sedbergh is different. Our role is not to steer pupils toward a single destination, but to equip them with the information, insight and confidence to choose the pathway that best matches their strengths and ambitions.

Through structured guidance, one-to-one conversations and access to digital platforms such as Xello, pupils explore university routes, degree apprenticeships, professional training, overseas scholarships and alternative pathways. Our programme of visiting speakers, alumni events and Pathways Fairs exposes pupils to a wide range of careers and experiences, helping them make informed, independent decisions. Whether a pupil’s ambition lies in the UK or overseas, in academia, industry, the Armed Forces or the creative sector, we provide the support and encouragement needed to pursue it with clarity and purpose.

The university pathway

Most Sedbergh pupils choose to continue their education at university, progressing to a wide range of courses across the UK and overseas. In 2025, 54% of leavers accepted places at Russell Group universities, while others pursued specialist pathways including the performing arts, business, sport and degree apprenticeships. A small number go directly into the Armed Forces or professional training programmes.

University preparation at Sedbergh begins well before applications are submitted. Through academic mentoring, early guidance on subject choices and informed conversations with tutors and the Careers team, pupils are supported to identify their strengths, refine their ambitions and make confident, realistic decisions about their next steps. Clear communication with families ensures that aspirations are ambitious, informed and achievable.

Russell Group Universities

In order of number of pupils:

  • Newcastle University
  • University of Exeter
  • Durham University
  • Cardiff University
  • University of Edinburgh
  • University of Liverpool
  • UCL (University College London)
  • University of York
  • Imperial College London
  • University of Cambridge
  • University of Glasgow
  • University of Leeds
  • University of Nottingham
  • University of Oxford
  • University of Sheffield
  • University of Southampton

Other Universities & Colleges

In order of number of pupils:

  • Oxford Brookes University
  • Northumbria University, Newcastle
  • Leeds Beckett University
  • University of Bath
  • Cardiff Metropolitan University
  • Harper Adams University
  • Hartpury University
  • Lancaster University
  • Nottingham Trent University
  • Liverpool John Moores University
  • Loughborough University
  • Manchester Metropolitan University
  • Royal Agricultural University
  • University of the Arts London
  • Syracuse USA
  • ABAC Thailand
  • Bangor University
  • Bath Spa University
  • Bristol, University of the West of England
  • Buckinghamshire New University
  • City, University of London
  • Heriot-Watt University
  • Liverpool
  • Sheffield Hallam University
  • Swansea Uni
  • University of Netherlands
  • University of Nicossia Cyprus
  • University of St Andrews
  • University of Stirling
  • University of Surrey

All of my teachers at Sedbergh played such an important role in my journey. They were always supportive and encouraging, and each of them left a lasting impact on both my academics and my personal growth. I’m truly grateful for their guidance and will always carry their influence with me. Zainab, Class of 2025

Learn About Zainab’s Path to Computer Science at the Georgia Institute of Technology

6 November 2025

Ella celebrates A level success as she begins Psychology at the University of Exeter

20 October 2025

Zainab: Results, Ambition and a Global Mindset

28 March 2025

Fleur’s Academic Growth at Sedbergh

The professional pathway: apprenticeships and degree apprenticeships

Apprenticeships are a powerful option for pupils who want to combine learning with real-world experience and earning from day one. Some of our pupils progress into highly competitive degree apprenticeships, securing places with leading organisations in fields such as finance, technology and professional services. Others follow excellent non-degree apprenticeship routes, gaining practical skills and immediate career momentum in sectors ranging from sport to creative industries.

Apprenticeships demand ambition, resilience and preparation, and our Pathways programme supports pupils every step of the way — from research and applications through to interview confidence and decision-making. By integrating personalised guidance, access to alumni insights, and targeted support, we help pupils explore apprenticeship opportunities that align with their strengths.

 

Learn About Tilly’s Path to Financial Services

I’ve never been a hundred percent sold on uni. I’ve obviously gone to open days and really enjoyed the day, but I’ve always thought, what if there was something else that could be a bit faster or maybe get me earning as well as I’m learning? Liam, Class of 2024

Learn About Liam’s Path to Finance

The student athlete

Some Sedbergh pupils combine outstanding academic commitment with elite sporting talent, earning opportunities to continue their development through international sporting scholarships at leading universities or by joining professional teams. These pathways celebrate both athletic excellence and the academic strength required to succeed in highly competitive environments — whether that’s a place at Princeton University through hockey, or similar opportunities across other sports and disciplines.

With personalised guidance, pupils receive support from coaches and exposure to high-performance environments that encourage them to explore pathways that align with their aspirations. Sedbergh’s holistic programme helps talented young athletes balance sport and study, equipping them to thrive at top universities worldwide.

I wanted to look for something that gave me the sport yet with the good standard of university. I knew of people in America and so I looked over there. … I decided that’s probably going to be the best option if I want to keep playing a high level of hockey and keep that same high level with my education. Pru, Class of 2024

Learn about Pru’s Path to Princeton

The creative pathway

For some pupils, creativity is not simply an interest — it is a vocation. At Sedbergh, we support young performers, musicians and artists who combine talent with discipline and academic commitment, enabling them to pursue places at leading conservatoires, elite universities and specialist performing arts institutions in the UK and overseas.

Whether securing competitive music scholarships, navigating applications to world-class universities, or following professional performance pathways, our pupils demonstrate that creative ambition demands resilience, courage and sustained hard work. Through expert teaching, performance opportunities and personalised guidance, we help pupils refine their craft while developing the confidence and intellectual depth needed to thrive in highly competitive artistic environments.

Learn about Archie’s pathway to Cambridge

Academics

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