The Oratory School, located at the heart of South Oxfordshire, offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity, making it a compelling choice for families seeking a well-rounded education for their children. Established in 1859 by Saint John Henry Newman, this co-educational secondary school is steeped in Roman Catholic ethos, yet warmly welcomes pupils of all faiths or none. With its picturesque 100-acre estate just an hour from London, the school provides an idyllic setting for learning and personal growth.
Operating from a smaller scale compared to many independent schools, The Oratory prides itself on fostering a close-knit community where each student is known and valued as an individual. This approach is reflected in their strong pastoral care system, encapsulated by the school motto: ‘Cor ad Cor Loquitur: Heart Speaks to Heart’. The emphasis on individual attention ensures that students are set challenging targets tailored to their strengths and weaknesses, supported by teachers who are deeply invested in their success.
The school’s commitment to academic excellence is evident in its impressive exam results. In 2022, 14% of GCSE grades were 9s, with 29% falling within the 9-8 category. At A Level, 39% of students achieved A*-A grades, with a remarkable 100% pass rate. These results underscore the school’s ability to nurture academic potential while maintaining a broad intake. The Oratory’s art department stands out nationally, consistently receiving top accolades for both A Level and GCSE Art and Design.
Beyond academics, The Oratory offers an extensive array of extra-curricular activities that cater to diverse interests. The school’s commitment to holistic development is evident in its vibrant arts programme. Drama and Music departments collaborate closely, producing successful performances such as One Man, Two Guvnors and Matilda. The art department is described as bold and dynamic, with students encouraged to explore creative expression through various mediums.
Sport plays a significant role in school life, with opportunities for students to excel in cricket, hockey, football, netball, rowing, rugby, and tennis. The school’s sporting tradition is bolstered by facilities like a boathouse on the River Thames and a real tennis court—one of only five schools in the country to offer this sport. Notably, the girls’ hockey team has achieved significant success in recent years, winning the U18s Berkshire league twice consecutively.
The introduction of co-education has been met with enthusiasm from both staff and parents. Now in its third year of welcoming girls alongside boys aged 11 to 18, the school reports that 30% of its student body is female. This transition has enriched the school community and expanded opportunities for all students. The new Sixth Form Centre further supports this growth by providing dedicated space for academic and personal development.
The Oratory’s strategic location near Reading allows it to draw students from a wide catchment area while maintaining strong ties with local communities. This connection is strengthened through initiatives like the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), which thrives with recruits across all divisions.
The school’s leadership remains committed to its founding principles while embracing change and innovation. As Dr Julian Murphy steps down as Head in April 2025 to focus on family priorities, Mr Matthew Fogg will take over as Headmaster. Mr Fogg brings extensive experience from his tenure as Deputy Head since 2018 and shares a deep commitment to ensuring student wellbeing remains central to all decisions.
In conclusion, The Oratory School offers an enriching educational experience that balances academic rigour with personal growth opportunities across various disciplines. Its nurturing environment encourages students to explore their passions while preparing them for future success at university or beyond.
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