Founded in 1889 by Dr Cecil Reddie, the originator of a movement which led to the foundation of Bedales, Gordonstoun and similar schools; the pioneering methods have since been widely adopted. In 1969 it was one of the first boys’ schools to become fully co-educational. Its handsome and well-equipped buildings lie in a beautiful 140 acre estate on the banks of the River Dove, in rural Derbyshire close to the Peak District. Facilities include a working farm, equestrian centre (BHS-approved), a multi-purpose sports hall, art, music, design and IT centres and a purpose-built studio theatre. A small, friendly school, with a progressive approach based on balance – an educational philosophy where academic, personal and social developments are given equal standing. It aims to give all pupils knowledge to facilitate success and achievement, commitment to nurture and care for the environment, challenges to build strength and test courage, cultural enrichment to widen perspective and responsibility for the needs of others. Boarding is in small friendly homes run by resident house parents as family units until the sixth form, when boarders live semi-independent lives in a log cabin complex in the school grounds. A staff:pupil ratio of about 1:8 ensures small classes and individual attention so that, by the sixth form, pupils have a solid foundation of independent study. Examination results are good and most sixth-form leavers go on to degree courses. Music, drama and art are all vigorously supported. A comprehensive range of activities is integral to the curriculum, including an outstanding outdoor education programme, which has taken pupils to all corners of the world. Membership of the Round Square provides a strong international perspective.