The Oratory Preparatory School

The Oratory Preparatory School, located in Goring Heath, Reading, Oxfordshire, is a Catholic co-educational institution catering for pupils aged 2 to 13 years. Owned by Bellevue Education, the school provides both day and boarding options, with a current enrollment of 348 pupils, including 11 boarders. The school emphasizes a holistic approach to education, aiming to nurture each child's individual talents and foster a strong partnership between children, parents, and the school community. The school’s mission is to develop pupils intellectually, morally, socially, spiritually, aesthetically, and physically, while also encouraging a personal relationship with God through prayer and worship.

The school has faced challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to temporary closures and a shift to remote learning. During the lockdowns, the school provided educational materials for all pupils, ensuring continuity in learning. The inspection process during this period was adapted to include both remote and on-site evaluations to minimize contact.

The regulatory compliance inspection conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate confirmed that The Oratory Preparatory School meets all the required standards set forth in the Education (Independent School Standards) Regulations 2014 and the National Minimum Standards for Boarding Schools. The inspection focused on various aspects, including the quality of education, spiritual and moral development, welfare and safety of pupils, staff suitability, premises, information provision, complaints handling, and leadership quality.

The quality of education provided at the school is commendable, with a well-documented curriculum that supports pupils' progress. The teaching methods employed are effective, and the school has established a suitable framework for assessing pupils' performance. The school offers relationships education in the junior school and relationships and sex education in the senior school, adhering to statutory guidance and consulting parents on its policies.

Pupils at The Oratory Preparatory School demonstrate excellent academic achievements, with strong performance across various subjects. The school emphasizes the development of information and communication technology skills, which pupils use effectively to enhance their learning. The pupils exhibit outstanding attitudes towards learning, taking initiative and demonstrating high levels of self-confidence. Their sporting skills are also noteworthy, with many pupils achieving success in various sports at county and national levels.

The personal development of pupils is a key focus, with the school promoting social skills, collaboration, and moral integrity. Pupils are encouraged to work together, participate in school council activities, and engage in community service. The school fosters a supportive environment where pupils feel confident to express themselves and take on leadership roles. The emphasis on teamwork and cooperation is evident in the way pupils interact with one another, both in academic settings and during extracurricular activities.

The welfare, health, and safety of pupils are prioritized, with appropriate measures in place to safeguard their well-being. The school maintains a strategic approach to risk assessment and ensures that pupils are properly supervised. The boarding provision is well-managed, with suitable accommodations and support for boarders' medical and health care needs. The school has established effective communication channels for handling parental complaints, ensuring that concerns are addressed promptly and appropriately.

The leadership and management of the school are effective, with the proprietor ensuring that the standards are consistently met. The leadership team actively promotes the well-being of pupils and maintains high expectations for staff performance. The school’s governance supports a teaching style that challenges and engages pupils, contributing to their overall success.

In terms of personal development, pupils at The Oratory Preparatory School exhibit outstanding social skills and a strong understanding of right and wrong. They demonstrate empathy and respect for others, contributing to a positive school culture. The school encourages pupils to lead healthy lifestyles, providing ample opportunities for physical activity and promoting mental well-being. Pupils are aware of the importance of online safety and understand the measures in place to protect them from unsuitable content.

The school community is diverse, with pupils from various backgrounds and nationalities. This diversity is embraced, and pupils are taught to respect and appreciate different cultures. The curriculum includes lessons that promote understanding of diversity and inclusion, helping pupils develop a broader perspective of the world around them.

Overall, The Oratory Preparatory School provides a nurturing and supportive environment that fosters academic excellence and personal growth. The school’s commitment to developing well-rounded individuals is evident in its approach to education, ensuring that pupils are prepared for the next stages of their lives. The positive feedback from parents and pupils alike reflects the school’s success in achieving its mission and values.