Outdoor Pursuits

Blundell’s School is perfectly situated for outdoor pursuits, surrounded by national parks, Bodmin Moor, Exmoor, and Dartmoor, the latter being the largest open countryside in southern England. Dartmoor's 368 square miles of moorland, granite tors, forests, rivers, and waterfalls offer endless adventure opportunities. The school collaborates with multiple activity providers to offer diverse pursuits, including hiking, canoeing, coasteering, scuba diving, surfing, sailing, climbing, horse riding, shooting, and mountain biking. Blundell’s also utilises nearby outdoor adventure centres for additional activities. Pupils participate in renowned challenges like Ten Tors and the Duke of Edinburgh Award at all levels, maximising their experience of the rich and varied terrain while taking full advantage of the school’s extensive arrangements and location.

I love how we get to explore so much at Blundell’s! We go on amazing hikes on Dartmoor, camp under the stars, and even try surfing on the coast. It’s so much fun being outside with friends, learning new skills, and having adventures – it makes school really exciting!

Culture

Our school's location provides an exceptional cultural advantage, enriching students’ artistic and intellectual experiences. Through close ties with Falmouth University, our art scholars gain invaluable exposure to higher-level artistic practices, while our theatre students benefit from regular trips and workshops in Bristol, Bath, and Exeter—renowned hubs of performance and creativity. Music plays a vital role in our cultural life, with the chapel choir maintaining strong connections to Exeter Cathedral, where they perform regularly, alongside appearances at Bath Abbey. Additionally, our partnership with Exeter University’s chapel choir fosters advanced musical development, ensuring students are immersed in a vibrant and inspiring cultural environment that nurtures their talents and broadens their artistic horizons.

Performing at Exeter Cathedral during our Christmas carol service was an unforgettable experience. The grandeur of the cathedral and its rich history made our music feel even more special. It's incredible that Blundell's location allows us to be part of such meaningful traditions in these historic settings.

Boarding

One of the great advantages of boarding at Blundell’s is our stunning location in the heart of Devon, one of England’s most beautiful counties. Our boarders are exceptionally fortunate to live in close proximity to some of the finest countryside and coastline England has to offer, while also enjoying access to a remarkable array of activities.

From surfing at the renowned beaches of North Devon to exploring the wild beauty of Dartmoor and Exmoor, there is no shortage of adventure. Meanwhile, trips to vibrant cities like Exeter and Bristol provide cultural and social opportunities, as well as a chance for pupils to spend quality time with their friends.

We are privileged to offer our pupils not just an outstanding education, but also an environment that inspires, enriches, and makes their time at Blundell’s truly unforgettable.

Being a full boarder at Blundell’s is so much fun! I love our Sunday trips, especially surfing at Westward Ho! It’s amazing to be out on the waves with friends, and it’s just a short trip from school. Living in the heart of Devon means we can explore so many incredible places – it makes boarding life really exciting!

Activities

Set within over 100 acres of idyllic countryside, our school offers unparalleled opportunities for outdoor pursuits and sporting excellence. With extensive on-site facilities, including sports pitches, an athletics track, squash courts, and an all-weather pitch, students enjoy a diverse and high-quality activity programme. The school's proximity to Exmoor and Dartmoor National Parks enables participation in adventurous activities such as Duke of Edinburgh expeditions, hiking, orienteering, and the renowned Ten Tors challenge. Nearby waterways, including the River Exe and the Devon coastline, provide excellent locations for kayaking and sailing. Additionally, access to equestrian centres and golf courses allows students to pursue specialised sports. Excellent transport links, including the M5 motorway and nearby airports, further facilitate travel for competitions, fixtures, and international sporting exchanges.

Being a day pupil at Blundell’s means there’s always something exciting to be part of! From sports matches and House competitions to CCF, drama rehearsals, and after-school clubs, every day is packed with opportunities. I love that I can get involved in all these activities while still heading home in the evening. There’s always something to look forward to, whether it’s a big school event or just spending time with friends.

Academic

Blundell’s pupils are fortunate indeed to be surrounded by so many natural resources to bring aspects of their academic learning to life. Pupils are taken to explore rock formations and geological points of interest on the amazing Jurassic Coast, which runs from Exmouth in East Devon to Studland Bay in Dorset. Pupils also love fossil hunting in this stunning area. The picturesque River Exe and Exe Estuary offer great opportunities to study rivers and flood relief channels. 6th Form Biologists are treated to an annual day trip to Lundy Island, situated just off the north coast of Devon. There are also various trips to some of Devon’s glorious beaches to study biological life in rockpools and the distribution of species on the seashore.

Learning at Blundell’s goes beyond the classroom! Our fossil-hunting trips to Lyme Regis are amazing – we get to explore the Jurassic Coast, search for real fossils, and see history come to life. It’s incredible to study something in lessons and then experience it for ourselves in such a famous location!