Co-curricular
We support and encourage boys to explore the world and all that it has to offer, and importantly that extends beyond the classroom.
Clubs and Societies
We actively encourage boys (though most need little encouragement) to participate in a new activity each term to discover new interests or unsuspected talents.
From sports and science to music, drama, and everything in between, boys can choose from a huge variety of co-curricular activities. With over 120 clubs and societies, there is something for every interest and every boy.
Every club is supported by a dedicated member of staff, but the real energy comes from the boys themselves.
They help shape, lead and drive their direction.
“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…
Charity and Community
Boys at Bedford School actively support national and international causes that matter to them. Through fundraising and volunteering, they 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. Together, they regularly raise over £25,000 for the men’s mental health charity—consistently placing Bedford at the top of the schools’ fundraising leaderboard.
Combined Cadet Force
From Year 9, boys can 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, boys develop leadership, teamwork and resilience. They take on physical and intellectual challenges, learn to support others and grow into confident young men with a strong sense of purpose.
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) offers boys 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, boys create their 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.
The benefits go far beyond the award. Boys gain leadership, teamwork and decision-making skills that are highly valued beyond school and forge lasting friendships along the way.
Trips and Tours
We offer boys a wide variety of trips— from inspiring educational visits to unforgettable sports tours. Each experience is carefully chosen to spark curiosity, build confidence and nurture the life skills essential for success in today’s ever-changing world. Through these journeys, boys gain a broader view of the world and their place in it.
Recent examples include a Rugby and Hockey tour to South Africa, volunteering in Malawi, exploring bio-diversity in Mexico and a Chapel Choir residency at Gloucester Cathedral.
