Extra-Curricular life at Sedbergh

Sport, performing arts, academic societies, CCF and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award give every pupil opportunities to discover interests, develop skills and contribute to school life.

At Sedbergh Senior School, extra-curricular life is an essential part of a full boarding education. Our seven-day rhythm gives pupils the time, facilities and encouragement to take part widely, whether they are pursuing an established strength or trying something for the first time.

Through sport, music, drama, academic societies, outdoor challenge, CCF and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, pupils learn to collaborate, lead, persevere and manage competing commitments. These experiences build confidence, broaden friendships and help young people discover interests that may stay with them long after they leave school.

The programme is shaped by Sedbergh’s setting in the north of England, on the edge of the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales, and by our values of Humility, Ambition, Resilience and Kindness. Participation matters, but so does what pupils learn about themselves and others along the way.

Sport for every pupil

Sport is a defining part of life at Sedbergh, with opportunities for pupils of every level to train, compete and take part. A broad programme, expert coaching and strong facilities support both high-performance athletes and pupils who participate for enjoyment, fitness and friendship.

The seven-day boarding rhythm creates time for regular training, fixtures and individual development, while the School’s landscape makes outdoor activity and fell running a natural part of the experience. Through sport, pupils learn teamwork, discipline, resilience and how to respond constructively to success and setback.

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Academic societies and intellectual life

Learning at Sedbergh continues beyond timetabled lessons. Academic societies, lectures, debates, competitions and pupil-led discussions give young people the freedom to explore subjects in greater depth and encounter ideas beyond the curriculum.

These opportunities help pupils develop curiosity, confidence and independent thought. They can test arguments, share interests with others and begin to understand how academic disciplines connect with the wider world.

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Performing arts

Music, drama and performance give pupils the opportunity to express themselves, work collaboratively and develop confidence in front of an audience. This extra-curricular programme is open to all pupils, regardless of whether they study drama or music academically, with opportunities to audition for productions, concerts and tours.

From major productions and concerts to House events, ensembles and individual performance, there are roles for experienced performers and complete beginners alike.

The performing arts bring together pupils across year groups and disciplines, creating memorable shared experiences while developing creativity, commitment and technical skill.

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Combined Cadet Force

Sedbergh’s Combined Cadet Force gives pupils practical opportunities to develop leadership, self-reliance and teamwork. Through fieldcraft, training, expeditions and shared challenges, cadets learn to take responsibility, make decisions and support one another.

CCF is not simply about military skills. It helps pupils grow in confidence, remain calm under pressure and understand the value of disciplined preparation and collective effort.

Discover the Combined Cadet Force

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award encourages pupils to challenge themselves through volunteering, physical activity, skills development and expeditions. Sedbergh’s location near the Howgill Fells, Yorkshire Dales and Lake District provides an exceptional environment in which to build confidence outdoors.

As pupils progress through the Award, they learn to plan, persevere, solve problems and contribute to others. The experience develops independence and resilience while giving pupils a recognised achievement beyond their academic studies.

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Participation that builds character

The value of extra-curricular life lies not only in what pupils achieve, but in the habits they develop. Taking part helps young people discover strengths, respond to challenge, build friendships and become more willing to contribute.

At Sedbergh, a full boarding education creates the time and community for participation to become part of everyday life. Whether pupils are performing, competing, debating, leading or exploring the outdoors, every experience contributes to Character that Counts.

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