Watch Harrow: A Very British School

Harrow: A Very British School is a documentary series that takes you on a behind-the-scenes journey into one of the UK's most prestigious boarding schools, Harrow School. The show follows the day-to-day operations of the school, from the morning wake-up call to lights-out at bedtime, giving viewers a rare glimpse into the world of privileged education.

Narrated by comedian and actor Miles Jupp, the series consists of three episodes that focus on different aspects of the school. The first episode, titled "Tradition and Turning Points", introduces viewers to the history and traditions of Harrow School, which was founded in 1572. We see the boys dress in their traditional tailcoats and top hats, attend chapel services, and take part in the school's signature sport, fives. Throughout the episode, we also meet several boys who attend Harrow and learn about their experiences.

In the second episode, "The Harrovian Spirit", we learn more about the academic and extracurricular pursuits of the school. We follow the boys as they attend classes, take exams, and participate in activities such as debating, drama, and music. We also meet some of the school's esteemed alumni, including Winston Churchill and Lord Byron, and hear about their time at Harrow.

The final episode, "Making a Harrovian", takes a closer look at the school's unique approach to character development. We see the boys participate in team-building exercises, take on leadership roles, and engage in community service projects. The episode also explores the school's emphasis on mental health and well-being, as well as its commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Overall, Harrow: A Very British School is a fascinating look at a world that few of us will ever experience. While the show certainly highlights the privileges that come with attending a school like Harrow, it also strives to show the challenges and pressures that the students face. And while the focus is on the boys of Harrow, the series also offers a glimpse into the lives of the teachers, staff, and administrators who help shape the school's culture and values.

One of the most impressive aspects of the show is its cinematography. Filmed over the course of a year, the series captures the stunning beauty of Harrow's campus, from its historic buildings to its sprawling playing fields. The camera work is in sharp contrast to the traditional perception of a boarding school, and visually demonstrates the modernity and technological excellence of the school.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the series offers a thought-provoking commentary on the education system. While Harrow is one of the top boarding schools in the UK, it is also a microcosm of the country's broader education system. The series explores issues such as the role of standardized tests, the pressures of school rankings, and the challenge of promoting individuality.

Finally, Miles Jupp's narration is a standout feature of the series. His witty and wry observations bring a light-heartedness to the serious subject matter, and the show would not be the same without his narration.

In short, Harrow: A Very British School is a must-watch for anyone interested in education, class, or the inner workings of boarding schools. It is a nuanced and thought-provoking look at one of the UK's oldest and most prestigious institutions, and it provides a rare glimpse into a world that is often inaccessible to outsiders.

Harrow: A Very British School is a series that ran for 1 seasons (8 episodes) between September 4, 2013 and on FilmRise