Co-Curricular
At Bedford School, you are encouraged to explore the world and everything it has to offer—not just in lessons, but in every corner of school life.
Clubs and Societies
From sports and science to music, drama and everything in between, you can choose from over 120 co-curricular activities. Whatever your interests, there is something here for you.
Every club is supported by a dedicated member of staff—but the real energy comes from you and your peers. You help shape, lead and drive the direction of each society.
“Boys feel they know what is expected of them, confident to take advantage of the new opportunities, to decide things for themselves.”
Jo Reid, Independent Researcher
Just a few of our clubs…
Community Partnerships
No matter where you are from, you will play a meaningful role in the local community during your time in the Lower Sixth through our Community Partnership Programme.
It is a chance to go beyond the school gates and make a real difference. You might choose to help in a local primary school, spend time in a care home, support a charity or work with an organisation that protects and improves the local environment. How you get involved is up to you.
By taking part, you will learn what it means to be a responsible citizen—someone who gives back and supports the community they live in. And the impact you can make is hugely beneficial, not just to others, but to you as well. It is an opportunity to learn new skills, grow in confidence and feel more connected to the world around you. It is a chance to be part of something bigger, and to find the joy and fulfilment that comes from helping others.
Charity and Community
At Bedford School you will have the opportunity to actively support national and international causes that matter to you. Through fundraising and volunteering, boys here learn the value of giving back and making a meaningful impact.
Our boy-led Charities Committee plays a key role in organising House fundraising events—from cake sales and own clothes days to creative challenges and events.
Every year, boys from across the school unite to support Movember. As one of our ‘MoBros’ you will have the chance to be part of a team that regularly raises over £25,000 for the men’s mental health charity—consistently placing Bedford at the top of the schools’ fundraising leaderboard.
Combined Cadet Force
As a Sixth Former, you will be able to join Bedford School’s Combined Cadet Force, choosing from the Royal Navy, Army or Royal Air Force.
Our CCF is a proud partnership between Bedford School, Bedford Girls’ School and the Ministry of Defence, which sees cadets training together weekly and taking part in national camps, competitions and adventurous activities throughout the year.
New recruits follow a core programme in drill, weapon handling, first aid and navigation. Each section offers its own traditions and skill sets, shaped by its parent service:
- Royal Navy cadets dive into sailing, powerboating, navigation and adventure training
- RAF cadets take to the skies in gliders and light aircraft, while mastering ground-based aviation skills
- Army cadets focus on fieldcraft, including map reading, shooting and tactical exercises
Through the CCF, you will build real skills in leadership, teamwork and resilience. You will face physical and mental challenges, learn to support others, and grow into a confident, capable young man who is ready to take the lead.
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) offers you the opportunity to build skills for life and work through a nationally recognised programme. The three levels, Bronze, Silver and Gold, each offer a unique challenge and rewarding experience.
At Bedford School, you can create your own journey by choosing activities across four sections (five for Gold):
- Volunteering
- Physical
- Skills
- Expedition
- Residential (Gold only)
From hiking through rugged landscapes to learning new talents and giving back to the community, every step of the DofE builds confidence, resilience and independence.
And the benefits go far beyond the award. You will gain skills in leadership, teamwork and decision-making, all of which are highly valued beyond school, as well as forging lasting friendships along the way.
Trips and Tours
You will have the chance to take part in a wide range of trips—from inspiring educational visits to unforgettable sports tours. Each one is designed to spark your curiosity, build your confidence, and help you develop the life skills you will need to succeed in a fast-changing world.
These journeys will give you a broader understanding of the world—and your place in it.
