School to admit girls for first time in 474 years

A public school will admit girls for the first time since it was founded in 1552.

The Harpur Trust, which has managed Bedford School since 1764, said it would become co-educational from September 2027 as part of an investment it will make in its schools over the next 12 months.

Plans also include upgraded facilities at Bedford Girls' School, campus improvements at Bedford Modern School and expanded childcare funding at Pilgrims Pre-Preparatory School.

The trust said: "The investment will ensure that each school continues to offer an outstanding and distinctive educational experience into the future."

It added that changes to Bedford School, an independent day and boarding school, would make "education available to more young people, while enhancing the experience of those already part of the school community".

A new music centre and recital space will be developed at Bedford Girls' School, alongside investment in its sports programme and a new wellbeing hub.

Bedford Modern School will get a revamped reception area and multi-faith prayer room as part of an ongoing refurbishment programme.

Families with children at Pilgrims Pre-Preparatory School will also be able to access 30 hours of free childcare a week.

David Steadman, the trust's chief executive, said: "The world of education is changing rapidly, and we continually review how our schools can best meet the needs of current and future generations.

"We are confident that these plans will enable our schools to continue delivering an outstanding educational experience for generations to come."

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