We became dissatisfied with GCSEs, believing they had become narrow, dull and unfit for purpose. 

Instead, we developed our own ambitious qualification programme – Bedales Assessed Courses (BACs) – to complement a core IGCSE programme of Maths, English, Sciences and Modern Languages. Designed by Bedales teachers, externally moderated and recognised by universities, BACs give students a say over what books they study, mainly involve coursework as opposed to exams, and focus on outdoors, Arts and Humanities subjects. 

A liberal education prioritises the individual and free expression. That doesn't mean 'anything goes', but it does encourage pupils to explore, contribute, consider alternative views, listen to others, and develop their own thinking and reasoning.

We believe that hard rules breed only obedience and disobedience, whilst freedom breeds insight - especially important in a world that is becoming less deferential and hierarchical, and with a greater emphasis on interaction and collaboration. 

We encourage our pupils to understand not only their subjects, but humanity and their place in the world, from as many different perspectives and experiences as possible.

A Bedales education is shaped by the individual. Our job is to help our pupils to work out where they want to go, and then to get there. When they leave us, we want them to feel comfortable in their own skins, to know their own minds, and to have found their voices.