Best Schools Guide 2025

Earlier this month, we were delighted to welcome Muddy Stilettos to Cundall Manor School. Following their visit, we’re proud to share that we’ve been featured in their Best Schools Guide 2025—a glowing write-up that captures the spirit, values, and vibrant day-to-day life of our unique North Yorkshire school.

In their words, “Cundall pupils enjoy an idyllic Enid Blyton-esque childhood, crammed full of tree climbing, baking, musicals, sport and, of course, learning.” As a co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 2 to 16, set in 28 acres of beautiful parkland between Ripon and Thirsk, our small class sizes (typically 12–18) and immersive outdoor learning environment allow children to flourish.

Muddy Stilettos highlighted our strong ethos, grounded in the original vision of our founder Lt. Col. Dr. Harry Beckhough: to equip children with the tools to thrive in life, not just in the classroom. Our Character Curriculum, which remains central to school life, ensures that children are challenged in meaningful ways, both academically and personally—be it in our Wild Wood, during our now-famous Go-Kart Race, or in public speaking debates.

The article also praised our outstanding facilities, from the heated pool and tennis courts to “The Meadow,” chicken coop, and meditation teepees, where pupils build resilience, curiosity, and joy beyond the traditional classroom setting. The breadth of our offering was clear—from competitive sports and creative arts to enrichment activities like astronomy, musical theatre, debating, and bushcraft.

Boarding, while flexibly offered, is described as a warm, homely experience full of fun evenings, themed sleepovers, and weekend adventures. The personal, family atmosphere of Cundall Manor was something the review returned to time and again—with pupils described as “very happy, organic, free-range children.”

Of course, no school would be complete without its leadership, and Muddy Stilettos were full of praise for our new Headteacher, Simon Weale, whose international experience, love of history and cricket, and commitment to holistic education promises to take Cundall from strength to strength.

We’re incredibly proud of this recognition, which reflects the passion, hard work, and joy that define a Cundall education. As Muddy Stilettos put it: “Children are lavished with attention and have the freedom to be creative and develop resilience, confidence and kindness.”

To read the full feature, visit Muddy Stilettos’ Best Schools Guide.

To find out more about Cundall Manor or book a visit, please contact us at 01423 360200 or explore www.cundallmanorschool.com.