Visiting
Bedford School
Nothing beats seeing Bedford School in action for yourself. Meet our pupils and our teachers and explore the estate. You are welcome to visit us at any time for a Private Visit—or join us at one of our many Open Events.
Book your place for
Your next opportunity to visit
Sixth Form Opening Evening
Date: Wednesday 23 September 2026
Time: 18:00 to 20:30
Join us for our Open Evening and discover a Sixth Form journey shaped around you.
At Bedford School, you are encouraged to discover where your talents can take you, supported by exceptional teachers, outstanding opportunities and a community that takes the time to understand your strengths, interests and ambitions.
Hear from Michael Sloan, our Head Master, speak directly with teachers from the subjects that interest you most, and meet current Sixth Form pupils to discover what life at Bedford is really like.
Open Morning
Date: Saturday 3 October 2026
Times: 09:00 Years 3-8, 10:00 Years 9-13
Join us for our autumn Open Morning to hear from our new Head Master Michael Sloan or Prep Headmaster Ian Silk. Meet senior staff, subject specialist teachers and our Admissions Team.
Learn about our extensive scholarship and bursary programmes, enjoy a comprehensive tour of either the Upper School or Prep School, and get a true sense of what makes Bedford School special.
Private Visit
If you are unable to attend any of our open events or would simply like to come sooner, or even just experience the school without too many other visitors around, we would be delighted to welcome you and your family for a private visit. Tours of our boarding houses are also open to families considering boarding, whether flexi, weekly or full.
“It was wonderful to see all the facilities available but most striking was the genuine joy and interest the pupils had in showing us their classrooms and work.”
Prospective parent
Open Event FAQs
Yes, advance registration is required to help us plan your visit and ensure you have the best possible experience. You can book your family’s place via the booking form for each event.
No, our open events are always free.
You’ll enjoy a guided tour of the school estate (including one of our boarding houses), meet members of staff and current pupils, and hear from either the Head Master, Michael Sloan or Prep Headmaster, Ian Silk, about our school ethos, academic approach, pastoral care and co-curricular opportunities. There will also be plenty of time for questions and informal discussions.
Our Admissions Team is on hand during our open events to answer questions and explain the application process, entry requirements and key dates. You can also find full details on our Joining Us page.
Absolutely. Our Open Mornings are designed to allow parents interested in the Prep School to also visit the Upper School. We recommend booking a place on the Prep Open Morning; at the end of the morning, we can arrange for you to hear from the Upper School Head Master and enjoy a tour of the Upper School. Just let us know when you arrive, and we’ll get this set up for you.
Absolutely! You are very welcome to bring your child to experience the school first-hand or, if you’d prefer, you can come for a first visit without them—we’d be very happy to welcome you back for another visit with them in the future.
Yes, light refreshments are available during open events.
Bedford School is situated in the heart of Bedford just off De Parys Avenue.
Please use MK40 2TT for accurate directions to the main entrance.
Yes, free parking is available on-site.
Yes, we have accessible parking spaces and facilities. Please let us know in advance if you require assistance by emailing communications@bedfordschool.org.uk.
Yes, absolutely. You’re very welcome to visit as many times as you wish. You may wish to consider a private tour, which is a great way to explore the school in more depth, especially the areas most relevant to your child.
That’s no problem. We offer private tours throughout the year, and there will be more open events in the future. Please contact our Admissions Team for more information or keep an eye on this page for future events.
Private Tour FAQs
In the Upper School, private tours feature a pupil‑led tour, which is a brilliant way to find out about school life from the pupils themselves, and an informal meeting with the Head Master, Michael Sloan. Families considering flexi, weekly or full boarding are invited to tour one the boarding houses as part of the visit.
Because every private tour is tailored to you and your family, we can adapt the schedule to ensure you see all areas of school life that interest you. We can also arrange informal meetings with additional staff where helpful.
- Term time: Monday to Friday, 8.30am–4.15pm, and Saturdays, 8.30am–12.00pm
- School holidays: Monday to Friday, 8.30am–4.00pm
You can request an appointment here using the booking form on this page or contact the Admissions Team directly by emailing admissions@bedfordschool.org.uk or calling +44 (0)1234 362216.
