An independent day and boarding school based in West Cumbria has introduced a dynamic new sport for it's students.
St Bees School has launched a fencing programme, becoming the first British Fencing-affiliated school in the region through the national body’s We Are Forging Futures scheme.
To mark the launch, Team GB Olympian and fencing champion Beth Cranston-Selby visited the school to lead a training session for six staff members, equipping them to deliver the sport to students.
Mr Simpson, Lead PE Teacher and Director of Pastoral at St Bees School, said: "Introducing fencing to St Bees School is a phenomenal step forward for us and for sport in West Cumbria.
"It’s a sport that naturally develops confidence, resilience, and creativity — qualities we nurture every day in our students.
"It also embodies our school virtue of fortitude: having the courage and determination to face challenges and persevere."
The training covered key elements of the sport including footwork, bladework, safety, and coaching principles.
Staff described Ms Cranston-Selby’s session as inspiring and energetic, and are now prepared to introduce fencing to the school’s community of just under 100 students.
The programme marks a milestone for West Cumbria, with St Bees becoming one of the only schools in the region to offer fencing as part of its sports programme.
The school said the move reflects its commitment to providing exceptional, diverse, and world-class opportunities both inside and outside the classroom.
A spokesperson for the school said: "Fencing’s emphasis on precision, composure, and respect aligns perfectly with the school’s vision to develop the next generation of global leaders.
"Through its fusion of East and West, St Bees balances academic excellence (IQ) with character development (EQ) — nurturing virtues such as compassion, fortitude, and integrity to help students thrive in every arena, both now and in the future."
Students are set to begin taking part in fencing sessions in the coming weeks, with plans to expand the programme to include competitions and regional events.
St Bees School said the introduction of fencing is part of its broader drive to offer students 'extraordinary opportunities that build confidence, character, and curiosity.'
The school said it believes the new sport could help identify and nurture future champions, while giving every student the chance to develop new skills in a unique and challenging discipline.
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