St Hugh's School

St Hugh’s School, located in the picturesque Oxfordshire countryside, offers a nurturing environment for children aged three to 13. Established in 1906, the school moved to its current location at Carswell Manor in 1945. The setting, a charming Jacobean house surrounded by 45 acres of well-maintained grounds, provides an idyllic backdrop for learning and play. The school is co-educational and affiliated with the Church of England, welcoming children from all faiths.

The school is non-selective, and early registration is advised as priority is given based on the date of registration. However, the school strives to accommodate families whenever possible. Prospective pupils can experience taster days, which include assessments in English and Maths for entry into year 3 and above. While most students join in reception, with 28 places available, integration throughout the year is possible if space permits. Weekly boarding is an option from year 3, offering flexibility for families.

St Hugh’s School is renowned for its excellent advice on progression to senior schools, with a broad spectrum of over 20 destination schools. In 2023, popular choices included Cokethorpe, St Edward’s, and Radley, with 12 scholarships awarded. Approximately 60% of students continue to board at their next school.

The school prides itself on its strong sense of community and family. Parents frequently describe it as a kind and supportive environment where children are encouraged to reach their full potential. The teaching is exceptional, with a well-organised timetable led by outstanding practitioners. The relaxed atmosphere, compared to the hustle and bustle of London, allows students to thrive without unnecessary pressure.

The facilities at St Hugh’s School are impressive, with modern buildings complementing the historic manor house. The grounds include well-manicured playing fields, a forest school, and an adventure playground, encouraging outdoor activity. The school places a strong emphasis on physical education, with at least one hour of sport per day. Core sports are complemented by activities such as basketball, tennis, lacrosse, synchronised swimming, and water polo. The equestrian team is particularly strong, with many students competing at county and national levels. Trips abroad, including popular cricket and netball tours to Barbados, are offered to students in years 7 and 8.

The school also excels in the arts, with 80% of pupils playing a musical instrument. Numerous choirs and orchestras provide opportunities for performance, while the light and airy art block inspires creativity. The performing arts and debating are particular strengths, seen as key skills in building confidence. The enthusiasm and enjoyment of the pupils are evident, with songs from musicals echoing across the grounds.

The Cottage Nursery, the first step in the St Hugh’s journey, offers two sessions per day for 20 children each. The vibrant classroom environment is stimulating and fun, with specialist teaching in music, PE, and ICT. French is introduced in a playful manner, and a rest room is available for time out. The pre-prep department, housed in the adjacent stable block, offers cross-curricular teaching with an average class size of 15. The school has achieved model status for its phonics programme, with a high ratio of qualified teaching assistants.

Years 3 and 4 enjoy lessons mainly taught by form teachers, while the upper school from year 5 benefits from specialist subject teaching. The provision of online learning during the pandemic reassured parents of the quality of education provided. The school prioritises keeping IT provision up to date.

Wellbeing is integrated into the curriculum, with initiatives such as campfire sessions in the forest school and a one-minute pause for silence at the start of every lesson. The school has a policy of no mobile phones, recognising the importance of reducing screen time for children’s development.

Boarding at St Hugh’s School is highly flexible, with a range of options available. The recently refurbished dorms and sitting rooms offer a cosy, home-from-home feel. House parents are well-regarded by boarders, who enjoy fun activities such as movies and popcorn nights.

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