St Bees School was founded in the 16th century, the same time as the discovery of the New American Continent and the beginning of the exchange in technology and culture between the East and the West.

The 18th century saw a period of rapid growth.  The excellent academic results and high quality of students’ character made St Bees one of the leading schools in the UK.

In the 19th century, School House was completed and welcomed boarding students from all over the country.

During the 20th century, the school became fully co-educational.  Prince Edward VIII, Princess Anne and Prince Charles visited the school and witnessed school milestone developments.

St Bees School enters a new era of development in the 21st century by signing the strategic partnership agreement with Full Circle Education Group during a visit to China of the former Prime Minister Theresa May in 2018.  With strong support from Full Circle, St Bees became the first school in the UK to offer a Fusion curriculum.  This concept is underpinned by the twin St Bees campuses in Shijiazhuang and Dongguan.