If you’ve ever watched Netflix’s hit series Sex Education, you’ve likely asked yourself, “Where Is Sex Education Filmed?” With its lush green hills, charming riverside homes, and a unique school that feels both British and American, Sex Education’s world has captured millions of hearts. But here’s the twist — the setting is fictional, yet the places are very real!
This blog takes you behind the scenes of Sex Education — from Otis’s idyllic wooden chalet to the dramatic school exteriors of Moordale and Cavendish. And whether you’re a fan, a traveler, or a curious student wondering about TV production, you’re in for a deep dive that’s both cinematic and educational.
At The Tutor Bridge, we help students not just with academics, but with developing a global perspective — and that includes learning through pop culture. Shows like Sex Education are more than entertainment; they spark interest in foreign languages, cultures, and even social education — much like how learning Korean through K-dramas or exploring digital marketing courses via YouTube trends has become the norm.
✨ Want to boost your academic focus while you binge-watch your favorite Netflix shows? Don’t miss our expert guide on how to improve concentration and study effectively.
As you scroll through this blog, you’ll uncover:
- The exact filming locations across Wales and the UK
- How the creators designed a setting that feels both familiar and exotic
- Why the show looks like it’s set in the US (but really isn’t)
- FAQs answered with clarity for fans and students alike
- A travel-friendly infographic map and planning tips
Whether you’re preparing a pop culture presentation using AI tools, planning a study trip abroad, or simply want to know if Moordale High is real — this guide is for you.
📌 Spoiler Alert: You might just be inspired to study abroad after seeing these jaw-dropping locations.
The Real-Life Locations Behind Sex Education: A Cinematic Tour 🎥🌲
One of the most fascinating parts of Sex Education is how the setting feels like it’s both British and American — at the same time. From riverside chalets to lush valleys and retro-style schools, every scene is packed with natural beauty and production magic.
But where exactly were these scenes shot?
Here’s your filming location breakdown — starting with the most iconic place of all:
📍 1. Wye Valley, Monmouthshire (Otis’s Chalet)
Welcome to Otis’s house — the heart of the show and the backdrop for countless emotional moments. This wooden chalet perched on a hill actually exists in Symonds Yat, Wye Valley, right along the border of England and Wales.
It overlooks the River Wye and is even available for vacation rental — yes, you can stay there!
🧠 Want to explore this location for a geography or creative writing project? Combine it with presentation skills using AI and make your assignment unforgettable.
📍 2. Moordale Secondary School – Caerleon Campus, South Wales
The fictional Moordale High School might remind you of a typical American high school, but it was actually filmed at the former University of South Wales campus in Caerleon.
Its red brick walls, gothic windows, and vintage corridors made it the perfect filming set — even though the school doesn’t exist in real life.
Tip: Students interested in film studies or architecture may want to explore how historical university buildings get repurposed for cinema.
📍 3. Penarth, Cardiff, and Newport (Season 3 & 4 Additions)
In later seasons, the show moved to:
- The Paget Rooms in Penarth – for school assembly scenes
- St. Fagans National Museum in Cardiff – to represent Cavendish Sixth Form
- Newport International Sports Village – used for various student activity scenes
These areas added a modern, vibrant twist to the show’s overall tone.
Inside the Show’s World: Wallace University and More Hidden Filming Gems 🎓🏞️
As the series progressed, Sex Education introduced even more dazzling backdrops — especially in Season 4. A big highlight? The mysterious Wallace University, where Otis, Maeve, and other students start a new chapter.
Let’s explore where those scenes were actually shot:
📍 4. Wallace University – University of Bristol, Clifton Campus
You might recognize the arched libraries, ivy-covered walls, and prestigious vibes of Wallace University. But it’s not in the U.S. or even a real place called “Wallace.” In reality, these scenes were filmed at the University of Bristol’s Clifton Campus.
- The Wills Memorial Building was featured in several interior and exterior scenes.
- Nearby Royal Fort Gardens provided some of the peaceful, open-air shots.
🎓 Students dreaming of studying abroad can explore real-life institutions like these. Start by learning about post-secondary education and community colleges to understand your global options.
📍 5. Eric and Otis’s Bridge – Bigsweir Bridge
If you remember those heartwarming conversations between Otis and Eric while biking home, they were filmed on the striking Bigsweir Bridge, which crosses the River Wye.
This Grade II-listed bridge connects Gloucestershire and Monmouthshire and is one of the most Instagram-worthy places in the show.
Fun Fact: This bridge became so popular after the show aired that it led to a small tourism boom in the Wye Valley!
📍 6. Maeve’s Caravan Park – Sterrett’s Caravan Park, Symonds Yat
Maeve Wiley’s tough exterior and private lifestyle are reflected perfectly in her humble caravan home. This location was shot at Sterrett’s Caravan Park, just minutes from Otis’s chalet in Symonds Yat East.
It’s a working caravan site that fans can visit or even stay at for a full-on Sex Education location tour.
🧳 Love the idea of studying and traveling? Discover high salary courses after 12th that can fund your global adventures.
📍 7. Forest & Cliff Scenes – Tintern and Brecon Beacons National Park
Many iconic outdoor scenes — especially reflective moments with Otis, Maeve, and Jean — were filmed across Tintern and the Brecon Beacons National Park.
Expect sweeping views, dense forests, and dramatic cliffside paths. These are great examples of how cinematography turns real-world nature into a narrative experience.
🌿 Want to write an essay on how environment influences storytelling? Combine it with how to top board exams for creative writing and film studies students.
Student-Centric Tips: Visiting Sex Education Locations for Learning, Vlogging, and Creative Projects 🎒📸
If you’re a student who dreams of visiting film locations, creating cinematic content, or even vlogging your journey — Sex Education’s filming spots are a fantastic place to start.
Why? Because they’re accessible, affordable, and offer the perfect blend of nature, culture, and pop-culture relevance. Plus, you can turn your fandom into a field trip or content opportunity — especially if you’re studying filmmaking, English, geography, digital media, or even social sciences.
Here’s your practical guide to visiting these iconic places like a student creator (and not just a tourist):
🎓 1. Plan Your Trip Like a Study Tour
Start by grouping nearby locations:
- Wye Valley: Otis’s Chalet, Maeve’s Caravan, Bigsweir Bridge
- Cardiff & Penarth: Cavendish College, assembly halls, modern city scenes
- Bristol: Wallace University (University of Bristol)
- Brecon Beacons: Forest scenes and nature shots
You can use your trip for:
- A school presentation using AI
- Vlogs/short documentaries
- English or geography assignments
- Writing a high-scoring essay based on pop culture
📸 2. Cinematic Angles: What You See vs. What’s Shown
Let’s bust a myth: The show isn’t filtered with heavy CGI — the beauty is real! But here’s what creators do differently:
- They shoot at golden hours (early morning or late evening) for soft light
- They use long lens compression to make locations feel closer/more dramatic
- They isolate locations (like Otis’s Chalet) to create mood and space
🎥 Tip: Try recreating these scenes with your phone and add AI edits to match the Netflix look. This is a great content idea for social media or YouTube.
💸 3. Budget-Friendly Stays for Students
You don’t need to break the bank to explore these areas. Check out these student-friendly options that keep you close to the locations:
| Location | Budget Stay Option | Avg. Cost/Night | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Symonds Yat | Otis’s Chalet (actual rental) | £120–£160 | Stay where Otis and Jean lived! |
| Wye Valley | Blistors Farm Guesthouse | £40–£60 | Near Maeve’s caravan + bridge scenes |
| Penarth | Local Homestays / B&Bs | £35–£55 | Close to Cavendish scenes |
| Bristol | University Dorm Guest Rentals | £25–£40 (off-season) | Stay near Wallace University |
✈️ Planning to go international? Read our guide on average cost of college and how to pass exams without studying — because budgeting is about brains too!
📝 Bonus: Turn Your Trip into a College Portfolio Project
- Create a blog or travel journal
- Use photos with captions comparing real locations vs. show scenes
- Turn your vlog into a short documentary
- Use it for scholarship applications or study abroad essays
Want inspiration? Read about students who made viral content using just their phones and smart editing. You can do it too — just study smarter with 5 proven strategies to focus.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sex Education Filming Locations (and Real-World Sex Ed Too!)
❓Where are the filming locations for Sex Education?
Sex Education was filmed primarily in the Wye Valley, Monmouthshire, and surrounding areas in South Wales and West England. Major spots include:
- Otis’s Chalet – Symonds Yat, Wye Valley
- Moordale School – Caerleon Campus, South Wales
- Wallace University – University of Bristol
- Cavendish College – Penarth and Cardiff
You can see the full list and travel tips above in this blog.
❓Was Sex Education shot in Nigeria?
No, Sex Education was not filmed in Nigeria. Despite its diverse cast and globally relatable themes, all known filming locations are in the UK, especially Wales and England.
❓Where is the university in Sex Education located?
The fictional Wallace University scenes were filmed at the University of Bristol, primarily at the Clifton Campus. The iconic Wills Memorial Building is seen in several interior and exterior shots.
🎓 If you’re considering studying abroad, explore what post-secondary education really looks like in the UK and US.
❓Is Sex Education set in a private school?
Moordale Secondary School looks like a private school with its retro American vibe, lockers, and cafeteria scenes — but it’s meant to be a fictional UK comprehensive school. The show blends UK and US styles to appeal to a global audience.
❓Is sex education given in Indian schools?
Yes — but it’s limited. Sex education in Indian schools is still considered controversial in many regions. Some schools offer it under health science or life skills classes, but there’s no nationwide standard.
Learn more about how students can access vital education online in our article on why online tutoring is the future.
❓Is Sex Education British or American?
Sex Education is a British series created by Laurie Nunn, produced by Netflix UK, and features a British cast and setting. However, it uses many American high school tropes — lockers, prom, letterman jackets — to give it universal appeal.
❓Can I visit Otis’s house?
Yes! Otis’s chalet in Symonds Yat is a real rental property available for vacation stays. You can book it via White House on Wye.
❓Can visiting these locations help with student projects?
Absolutely. Students studying:
- Media studies
- Creative writing
- English literature
- Geography
- Or even AI content creation
can benefit from real-world location analysis, photography, and comparisons with on-screen adaptations.
Check out how students can make AI-powered presentations and turn your visit into a top-grade
🎒 Educational Takeaways: What Sex Education Teaches Beyond the Screen
While Sex Education entertains with its witty characters and dramatic plotlines, it also sheds light on critical issues facing students globally — from identity and mental health to communication, peer pressure, and the dire need for honest education.
Let’s unpack some key lessons students and educators can take from the show — and how to apply them in real life.
📘 1. Importance of Real Conversations Around Sexual Health
The core message of the show revolves around open communication — not just about sex, but about feelings, boundaries, trauma, and self-respect. These conversations are often missing in real classrooms.
In India, sex education is still taboo in many schools. But the show encourages:
- Respectful dialogue
- Scientific understanding of the human body
- Consent and boundaries
📚 Want to speak with clarity and confidence? Improve your knowledge base with practical subjects like how to calculate percentage or learn computer basics — they build confidence in everyday decision-making too.
🧠 2. Mental Health Is Academic Health
Characters like Otis, Maeve, Aimee, and Eric navigate anxiety, bullying, parental pressure, and trauma — issues deeply relevant to real students. The series shows that mental health should be prioritized just as much as grades.
Tips for students:
- Practice mindfulness or journaling
- Talk to a school counselor
- Learn how to improve concentration
- Use study strategies that reduce burnout
🌍 3. Every Student’s Journey Is Unique
Whether it’s Maeve coming from a difficult background or Eric balancing faith and freedom — the show celebrates non-linear learning journeys.
It reminds us that:
- Academic excellence doesn’t always mean perfect scores
- Career paths are not one-size-fits-all
- And identity exploration is a healthy part of growing up
✨ Not sure what to do after school? Explore high-salary courses after 12th or consider unconventional fields like digital marketing.
🎥 4. Creative Careers Are Valid — and Thriving
Sex Education itself is a product of writing, acting, editing, and location scouting — creative fields often ignored in rigid academic systems. If you felt inspired watching the show, maybe that’s your sign to pursue:
- Filmmaking
- Photography
- Screenwriting
- Content creation
Use tools like AI for presentations and online tutoring to amplify your skills from anywhere.
🎓 Final Thought: Combine Entertainment with Education
When students watch shows like Sex Education, they’re not just “wasting time.” They’re absorbing visual storytelling, emotional nuance, and critical thinking. The trick is to channel those experiences into growth.
Turn binge-watching into brainstorming. Use what you see to fuel what you say — in essays, debates, videos, and more.