Designed to meet the challenges of our dynamic society, 9 INSPIRE goes beyond traditional subject titles, fostering a blend of skill and topic-based learning to equip pupils with the essential tools for success.

Mrs Abby Stubbs, Deputy Head Academic at Sedbergh School, expressed her excitement about the INSPIRE initiative, saying, “At Sedbergh, we believe in preparing our pupils not just for academic excellence but for life beyond the classroom. 9 INSPIRE is a testament to our commitment to instil confidence, passion for learning, and crucial life skills in our pupils.”

The 9 INSPIRE curriculum focuses on cultivating indispensable skills such as teamwork, project management, and problem-solving. It integrates Sedbergh’s core values of humility, ambition, resilience, and kindness into every subject, emphasising the importance of personal success and happiness.

The INSPIRE curriculum leverages cutting-edge facilities, collaborative spaces, and the integration of Xello, a careers-based platform. The comprehensive use of technology ensures that pupils are not only prepared for their academic journey but are also inspired to think innovatively about their future paths.

Year 9 at Sedbergh serves as a crucial juncture in the progression of pupils from prep to senior school. Beyond academics, the curriculum provides opportunities for social growth, new friendships, and the exploration of individual strengths, acting as a springboard for the impending GCSE phase.

 Mr Dan Harrison, Headmaster at Sedbergh School, stated, “Year 9 is a pivotal stage in a pupil’s journey, and this new programme is crafted to provide them with a holistic set of values and skills and keep them younger for longer. We want our pupils not only to excel academically but also to become positive forces in society, contributing meaningfully to the well-being of others. At Sedbergh we are very fortunate to be located in one of the most beautiful areas in the UK, enabling us to take lessons outside and give our pupils the opportunity to discover hidden talents in a safe, familial, full boarding environment.” 

The 9 INSPIRE curriculum is appropriate to pupils coming to Sedbergh from any traditional Year 8 course. As with learning across all years at Sedbergh, it includes opportunities to challenge and extend our most talented pupils, ensures pupils achieve required learning targets and will access the early stages of our Pathways programme.