The Harpur Trust Announces Major Investments Across Its Schools

The Harpur Trust Announces Major Investments Across Its Schools

The Harpur Trust today announces major investment across its outstanding independent schools in Bedford over the next twelve months, as part of a programme of developments at Bedford Girls’ School, Bedford Modern School, Bedford School and Pilgrims Pre-Preparatory School.

The Trust is introducing these developments to meet the evolving needs of families, while strengthening educational provision for future generations, following extensive research, consultation with parents and careful consideration of the changing landscape for independent education. The investment will ensure that each school continues to offer an outstanding and distinctive educational experience into the future.

Bedford School, currently a boys’ school, will become co-educational. Girls will be welcomed throughout all year groups from September 2027, supported by significant investment including a new dedicated girls’ boarding house and a state-of-the-art Sixth Form Centre. The changes will make a Bedford School education available to more young people, while enhancing the experience of those already part of the school community.

At Bedford Girls’ School, investment will further enhance its dedicated provision for girls with the development of a new music centre and recital space; a new Wellbeing Hub to enrich pastoral care; increased investment in its sports programme; the launch of a new careers Pathways Programme for Years 10 to Upper Sixth and the introduction of additional Sixth Form subjects.

Bedford Modern School, already a co-educational school, continues its major campus development programme already underway with the refurbishment and reopening of a significant suite of classrooms, a new multi-faith prayer room, a site-wide Wi-Fi upgrade and a refreshed reception area. These improvements will further enhance the day-to-day experience of students and the wider community.

At Pilgrims Pre-Preparatory School, eligible families can now access up to 30 hours per week of childcare funding. This expanded provision supports children from nine months to four years old, helping more families access high-quality early years education and giving children the very best start to their educational journey.

David Steadman, Chief Executive of The Harpur Trust, said: “We are excited about this new chapter in the evolution of The Harpur Trust’s schools in Bedford.

“The world of education is changing rapidly, and we continually review how our schools can best meet the needs of current and future generations. Following careful research these plans help us respond to the changing education landscape, while remaining true to the distinctive strengths and values of each of our schools.

“Across Bedford Modern School, Bedford School, Bedford Girls’ School and Pilgrims Pre-Preparatory School, new facilities and opportunities will enhance the experience of pupils and families, while ensuring our schools remain successful and distinctive for the future.

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