The Oratory School
Woodcote, Nr Reading, RG8 0PJ
Pupils
372
Ages
11 - 18
Gender
Boys
Type
Secondary
Head Teacher
Dr Julian Murphy
Boarding / Day
Day, Weekly/Flexible Boarding and Full Boarding
Fees
£6,625 to £9,185
ISC Associations
HMC, AGBIS, ISBA
Religion
Roman Catholic
Bursaries
Available
About The Oratory School
The Oratory School, located in the picturesque South Oxfordshire countryside, offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. As a co-educational Catholic boarding and day school, it caters to students aged 11 to 18, welcoming pupils of all faiths or none into its supportive community. The school is known for its strong pastoral care, ensuring that each pupil is known and valued as an individual, with teachers and tutors providing personalised support throughout their educational journey.
Academically, the Oratory School is gently selective, offering 30 places at 11+, 45 at 13+, and 20 at 16+. The admissions process is thorough, involving online tests, written assessments in Maths and English, and interviews for older applicants. The school maintains a focus on academic excellence, with a curriculum that includes a wide range of subjects such as Computer Science, Latin, and Ancient Greek. The school is proud of its holistic approach to education, balancing academic rigour with a broad range of extra-curricular activities.
The Oratory School’s commitment to the arts is evident in its vibrant Art and Design Department, which has been recognised for its bold and creative approach. The department offers a variety of disciplines, including Photography and 3D Design, and encourages students to explore their artistic talents. Music also plays a significant role in school life, with numerous peripatetic lessons and choirs that perform regularly. The school’s drama productions are well-received, with recent performances showcasing the talents of both students and staff.
Sport is a cornerstone of life at the Oratory School, with a wide range of activities available to students. The school has a strong tradition in sports such as rugby, cricket, and hockey, and offers unique opportunities in real tennis, coached by the reigning ladies’ world champion. The school’s facilities include a boathouse on the River Thames, and plans are underway to further enhance its sporting infrastructure. The emphasis on sport is not just about competition; it also fosters a sense of community and wellbeing among students.
Boarding at the Oratory School is flexible, with options for day, weekly, and full boarding. The boarding houses are well-organised, providing a comfortable and welcoming environment for students. The school has embraced co-education, with girls now making up a significant portion of the student body. This transition has been smooth, with both boys and girls benefiting from the diverse and inclusive atmosphere.
The school’s ethos is deeply rooted in its Catholic heritage, yet it remains open and welcoming to students from all backgrounds. The chapel, with its charming old beams and wooden pews, is a central part of school life, and the presence of two priests on staff provides spiritual guidance and support. The school’s patron saint, St Philip Neri, known as the apostle of joy, reflects the school’s commitment to creating a positive and nurturing environment.
Parents and pupils alike appreciate the sense of community at the Oratory School. The school fosters a welcoming atmosphere, with a strong emphasis on inclusivity and respect. The Parent Association, known as FOS, is active and engaged, organising events that bring families together. The school’s approach to discipline is balanced, focusing on positive reinforcement and celebrating student achievements.
In conclusion, the Oratory School offers a well-rounded education that combines academic excellence with a rich array of extra-curricular opportunities. Its commitment to pastoral care and inclusivity ensures that every pupil is supported and encouraged to reach their full potential. With its strong leadership and dedicated staff, the Oratory School is well-positioned to continue thriving in the years to come. To receive updates about this school including exam results, senior staff changes and open days please bookmark it using the button at the end of this review.
ISI Review
The Oratory School, an independent day and boarding institution located in Woodcote, Reading, Oxfordshire, caters to students aged 11 to 19. Established in 1859 as a single-sex boys' school, it transitioned to a co-educational environment in September 2020. The school operates under the governance of the Oratory Schools Association, a registered charity, and welcomes pupils from all faiths and backgrounds. It accommodates boarders in five houses, with specific arrangements for different age groups and genders.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the school adapted its operations, remaining open for key workers' children and providing remote learning materials for all pupils. The inspection process was modified to include both remote and on-site evidence gathering to ensure safety. The school aims to foster individual respect among pupils, enhancing their confidence and self-esteem while promoting holistic development—intellectually, morally, socially, spiritually, aesthetically, and physically. The institution emphasizes a Christian community experience, encouraging personal relationships with God through prayer and worship.
The pupil demographic reflects a broad range of abilities, with standardized test data indicating that the overall ability level aligns with national averages. The school has identified 79 pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, and 44 pupils for whom English is an additional language. The curriculum is tailored to support both those with specific needs and those identified as particularly talented.
The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) conducted a focused compliance inspection, confirming that The Oratory School meets the standards set forth in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014 and the National Minimum Standards for Boarding Schools. The inspection highlighted the school's commitment to safeguarding, promoting good behavior, preventing bullying, and ensuring health and safety. The school maintains appropriate supervision of pupils and has a strategic approach to risk assessment.
The quality of education provided at The Oratory School is commendable, with teaching enabling pupils to make good progress. The curriculum is well-documented and supported by effective plans and resources. Pupils receive comprehensive relationships and sex education, and the school has consulted parents regarding its policies. The standards related to the quality of education, spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, and welfare, health, and safety of pupils are all met.
The educational quality inspection revealed that pupils achieve excellent academic results, demonstrating ambition and a clear understanding of how to excel in their studies. Their communication skills are well-developed, and they engage effectively in a variety of activities beyond the classroom. The school encourages a culture of learning, where pupils are motivated to take initiative and engage in discussions. The leadership and management of the school are effective, ensuring that the required policies and records are maintained.
Pupils' personal development is also rated as excellent. They exhibit high levels of self-awareness and confidence, valuing the school's strong Catholic ethos, which influences their moral development. The school fosters respect for diversity and encourages pupils to reflect on their actions and decisions. The community service program is integral to the school's philosophy, with pupils actively participating in various charitable activities and mentoring younger students.
The Oratory School promotes a culture of inclusivity and respect, where pupils from different cultural backgrounds integrate seamlessly into school life. The curriculum has been reviewed to reflect contemporary issues, ensuring that pupils gain a comprehensive understanding of diversity and social responsibility. The school emphasizes the importance of physical and mental health, providing ample opportunities for exercise and promoting healthy lifestyle choices.
Overall, The Oratory School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education that nurtures both academic and personal growth. The school's ethos, combined with effective leadership and a supportive environment, enables pupils to thrive and develop into responsible, well-rounded individuals. The inspection findings affirm the school's dedication to maintaining high standards and continuously improving its educational offerings.
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Last Updated: 8 October 2024