Exeter School Secures Planning Permission for New Padel Courts

Exeter School is delighted to announce that planning permission has been granted for the construction of new padel courts, with work due to begin shortly. Located adjacent to the school’s astro pitches and Pavilion car park, the new facility will comprise two open-air courts, creating an exciting addition to the school’s sporting provision. Construction is expected to be completed by early October 2026.  


Padel is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, with more than 35 million players across 150 countries and participation in Britain now exceeding one million players. Combining elements of tennis and squash, the game is easy to learn, highly sociable and suitable for players of all ages and abilities. As well as providing an enjoyable way to stay active, padel offers significant physical and mental health benefits, improving cardiovascular fitness, coordination and wellbeing, while fostering social connection and community participation.  

The courts will be used by Exeter School pupils as part of the school’s extensive sporting and co-curricular programme, further enhancing opportunities for participation and enjoyment. Outside school hours, the facility will also be available for community hire during evenings and weekends, broadening access to the sport and strengthening Exeter School’s commitment to serving the wider community.  

Miles MacEacharn, Bursar at Exeter School, said: 'We are thrilled to have received planning permission for this exciting development. Padel is an inclusive and rapidly growing sport that brings people together, and these new courts will enhance the sporting experience for our pupils while also creating opportunities for members of the wider community to enjoy the game. We are proud to continue investing in facilities that benefit both the school and the city of Exeter.'  

The development has been designed to complement the school’s existing facilities and will make use of the ample parking already available on site, ensuring convenient access for pupils, staff and visitors.  



Further details about community bookings and court hire will be announced closer to completion. Those interested in learning more are invited to register their interest by emailing lettings@exeterschool.org.uk. The addition of the new padel courts represents another significant enhancement to Exeter School’s sporting facilities and reinforces the school’s commitment to promoting health, wellbeing and lifelong participation in sport for both its own community and the wider city. 

July 2026