Pocklington is an inclusive, family focused and academic school that offers incredible experiences inside and outside the classroom. We believe in encouraging pupils to seize opportunities from the broad range of activities we offer. Along with our personalised approach to teaching and learning, these help to form our young Pocklingtonians’ character and grow the qualities that support our values of Courage, Truth and Trust. Our sense of community, care for each other and pride in the school is tangible. This is no more evident than in our outstanding boarding provision. At the heart of this ethos lies our Values and Virtues. They guide us at Pocklington and mean our pupils leave with a deep sense of social responsibility and the ability to shape their own future.
Nestled 12 miles east of York, on the edge of a vibrant, friendly market town, Pocklington School’s expansive 50-acre campus has excellent public transport links and its own dedicated bus service. Founded in 1514, the school blends strong traditions with forward-thinking innovation and adaptability, encouraging pupils to have the courage to take chances with their learning journeys to achieve the best that they can.
Each day, until 5.00pm, numerous co-curricular activities are available for both day and boarding pupils, each one designed to foster individual interests and cultivate the depth of character and self-awareness necessary to navigate life’s challenges. Our state-of-the-art facilities include a 300-seat theatre, a sports hall, strength and conditioning suite and a swimming pool, alongside 21 acres of grass sports pitches and two brand new full-sized synthetic pitches which are poised to transform our sports provision and inspire our pupils’ athletic performance.
From the early years in Prep School, where the Curiosity Project curriculum enhances critical thinking through structured and imaginative enquiry, to the Sixth Form, where independent thought is highly valued, we encourage our pupils to become resilient and resourceful learners. To support our strategic objectives of further enhancing academic performance, fostering pupil independence, and catering to the needs of contemporary life, our pupils engage in a 5-day academic week from Monday to Friday. There are sports fixtures on a Saturday and boarders also enjoy a comprehensive weekend programme of activities and excursions.
We utilise the finest educational tools and cutting-edge technology to ensure pupils are captivated and motivated by the wealth of knowledge accessible to them. Our impressive Art and Design Technology Centre is fully equipped to support the pursuit of traditional arts and crafts, as well as offering modern resources and equipment for digital and computer design, and manufacturing technology. Our flexible learning platforms and personalised approach allow each pupil to progress at their own pace, thereby enhancing their confidence and self-esteem, often leading them to surpass their own expectations.
Our Health and Wellbeing Centre is staffed by a dedicated team of professionals. Alongside pastoral house teams, teachers and support staff, pupils can access support from our chaplain, medical team, and independent clinical psychologists. Our house system promotes community and belonging, with inter-house challenges fostering teamwork across different year groups. Sixth Form students are encouraged to assume responsibilities and leadership roles.
Our Sixth Form offers an engaging and varied education, blending challenge and support for students. With 28 subjects and a wide-ranging enrichment programme, students can customise their studies to align with their passions, skills, and career aspirations. Spacious common areas, a well-equipped study centre, and a vast library encourage both collaborative and independent work, preparing students for university and professional success.
One of our most notable former pupils is William Wilberforce, a British politician and philanthropist, who played a crucial role in the movement to end the slave trade. Additionally, we are proud to have among our eminent alumni a Davis Cup winner, Kyle Edmund, England Rugby star Rob Webber and world-renowned concert pianist Alexandra Dariescu.
Our mission is to embed the Pocklingtonian Values and Virtues in all our pupils, actively engage with their families to support the growth of the Pocklingtonians of tomorrow and remain receptive to innovation whilst being mindful of our traditions.
Tuition and boarding fees. For up-to-date information on day and boarding fees and boarding options, please visit the Pocklington School website www.pocklingtonschool.com/fees.
Governors & Staff:
Chair of Governors: Mr J V T Tilsed, MB, BS, MS, FRCS Eng, FRCS Gen Surg, FEBS EmSurg
Headmaster: Mr T Seth, MA Cantab
Head of Pocklington Prep School: Ms S Ward, LLB PgDip