Why Is Bedford School Going Co-Ed? The Harpur Trust CEO Finally Explains

David Steadman, Chief Executive of The Harpur Trust, joins YouthTV's Urban Judge to discuss a major new investment programme across Bedford's four independent schools. The conversation covers Bedford School's move to become co-educational from September 2027, the new girls' boarding house and Sixth Form Centre planned to support the change, and the petition launched by parents opposing the decision. Steadman also addresses whether financial pressures facing independent schools nationally, including VAT on fees, have influenced the Trust's wider strategy. The wider investment touches all four schools under the Trust, including new facilities at Bedford Girls' School, continued campus development at Bedford Modern School and expanded childcare funding at Pilgrims Pre-Prep.