Summary
"Sex Education" is primarily filmed in England and Wales, capturing the idyllic landscapes and unique locations that add to the show's British charm.
Moordale Secondary School, a fictional institution, is authentically portrayed on screen at the Caerleon campus in Newport, Wales, providing a realistic school atmosphere.
In Season 4, the show expands its setting to include Cavendish College in Cardiff and various quaint British towns, further exemplifying its dedication to capturing an authentic experience.
Filmed in idyllic English landscapes and featuring eccentric institutions, many may be wondering where Sex Education is filmed. The recently released fourth season on Netflix continues the show's trademark awkward hijinks, but what sets season 4 apart is the introduction of new locations, such as Cavendish College and the mall. These additions enhance the unique aesthetic of this British comedy.
When it comes to scenery, Sex Education showcases the very best. Right from the opening scenes, it's evident that Moordale is portrayed as a tranquil and beautiful place, yet also somewhat isolated from the outside world. Notable locations include Otis' house and the forest where Otis and Eric cycle to school. However, the show also incorporates less picturesque locales like Moordale Secondary School. Regardless of their varying attractiveness, all of Sex Education's locations are situated in England and Wales.
Caerleon Campus, Newport, Wales
Although Moordale Secondary School may seem like an authentic school, it is not. The fictional Moordale in Sex Education is actually filmed at the Caerleon campus in Newport, Wales. In its past, this campus was a part of the University of Wales but was closed down in 2016 due to a merger and has remained unoccupied since then. The vacant campus allows the Sex Education crew to easily transform it with decorations and details that give the show its distinctive look, including posters, lockers, and, of course, students. Unlike other TV series with unrealistic and fashionable school settings, Moordale genuinely resembles a real school because it once was.
Furthermore, Moordale's gym, which serves as a venue for school dances, assemblies, and other significant events, is actually located at the Paget Rooms in the Welsh town of Penarth. In reality, the Paget Rooms host numerous real-life events, further contributing to the authenticity of this unique filming location. While much of Moordale has an American feel, this specific setting in Sex Education emits a more British vibe. Creator Laurie Nunn has even mentioned that the general atmosphere of Moordale was inspired by John Hughes films. While this choice works well in most instances, the iconic assembly hall in the Paget Rooms gives the series the desired traditional English energy.
The England And Wales Border
Cardiff, Tetbury, And Abergavenny
Sex Education has utilized numerous locations throughout its four seasons, but the majority of the show is actually filmed in various neighboring towns and settings across England and Wales. For instance, the Milburn house can be found in Symonds Yat, a charming English village that offers beautiful views of the Wye River. In addition, the nearby Forest of Dean and the Wye Valley serve as prominent outdoor locations, creating the lush green forests and serving as the backdrop for Otis and Eric's bike path. The iconic bridge that they frequently cross on their way to and from school is known as the Tintern Wireworks Bridge in Wye Valley. By genuinely filming within small British towns, Sex Education successfully captures the essence of a tight-knit community.In Sex Education season 4, not only were new characters introduced, but also new locations. One notable location is Cavendish College, an elegant and fashionable institution situated in Cardiff, Wales. Interestingly, the college building is actually the modern reception building of St. Fagans National Museum of History, which is a famous tourist spot in the country. Additionally, the drive leading to the fictional Cavendish College is located in Cwmcarn on the Cwmcarn Forest Drive. This picturesque location is in close proximity to Newport, Wales, where scenes for Moordale Secondary School were also filmed.
The Moordale crew did not all relocate to Cavendish, resulting in more diverse settings in season 4. Despite rumors that Maeve moved to America to attend Wallace University, the school is actually situated in Tetbury, Gloucestershire, firmly located in the United Kingdom. Furthermore, the interior scenes of Wallace were filmed in the Wills Memorial Building on the campus of Bristol University. Additionally, Adam's apprenticeship on a farm takes place at Werngochlyn Farm in Abergavenny, which is a mere 20 miles away from the fictional Moordale school. Overall, Sex Education beautifully showcased various locations throughout England and Wales during its four seasons.