Magdalen College School, situated within the historic city of Oxford, stands as a testament to academic excellence and holistic development. As an independent day school with a Church of England affiliation, it caters to boys aged seven to 18 and girls from 16 to 18 in its co-educational sixth form. The school’s ethos is deeply rooted in fostering intellectual curiosity and personal growth, supported by a robust academic framework and a plethora of extra-curricular opportunities.
The school’s academic prowess is reflected in its impressive rankings and exam results. In the Times 2024 Parent Power Rankings, it holds the 19th position, a slight dip from its 7th place in 2023. Despite this, the school’s A-level performance remains commendable, with an A* rate of 41.7% and an A*/A rate of 80.5%. The GCSE results are equally noteworthy, with 77.7% achieving A*/9/8 grades and an overall A*/A/9/8/7 rate of 91.5%. These figures underscore the school’s commitment to academic excellence and its ability to nurture high-achieving students.
Under the leadership of Helen Pike since 2016, the school has continued to thrive. Pike’s diverse background in education, coupled with her passion for history and creative writing, brings a unique perspective to her role as headmaster. Her approach is characterised by careful analysis and bold initiatives, such as the recent push for increased bursary funding. Pike’s open-door policy and regular interactions with students foster a supportive environment where pupils feel valued and heard.
The introduction of girls into the sixth form has been a significant development, doubling applications at this level. This change has enriched the school’s dynamic, offering a more diverse educational experience. The school’s inclusive culture ensures that all students are supported in their academic pursuits and personal development.
Magdalen College School’s curriculum is designed to challenge and engage students across various disciplines. At GCSE level, students study ten subjects, including core sciences and modern foreign languages. The sixth form offers twenty A-level subjects, with popular choices being Maths, Further Maths, Sciences, Economics, English, and History. The Waynflete Studies programme provides an invaluable opportunity for lower sixth pupils to undertake personal research projects under the guidance of university academics, enhancing their subject knowledge and preparing them for university interviews.
Beyond academics, the school excels in providing a rich array of extra-curricular activities. Music holds a special place at Magdalen College School, with over sixty concerts annually featuring choirs, orchestras, jazz bands, and more. The school’s choral tradition dates back to its founding in 1480 and continues to thrive today. Drama is also actively pursued through after-school clubs and productions at prestigious venues like the Oxford Playhouse.
Sport is another area where the school shines. Despite its city-centre location limiting space for extensive sports facilities, the school makes excellent use of nearby university amenities. Sports like tennis, cricket, hockey, football, and rugby are popular among students, with over 80% representing the school in various competitions. Unique to Magdalen College School is Kingball—a game derived from fives with complex rules that evolve with each new cohort.
Pastoral care is a cornerstone of the school’s ethos. Staff are attuned to students’ wellbeing and provide support through various initiatives such as buddy systems for new pupils and access to mental health resources. The school’s house system fosters camaraderie among students who share similar commutes, further enhancing their sense of belonging.
The school’s history is rich with notable alumni who have excelled in various fields. This legacy continues as current students are encouraged to pursue their passions both academically and personally.
In conclusion, Magdalen College School offers an exceptional educational experience that combines rigorous academics with diverse extra-curricular opportunities. Its commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals is evident in its outstanding pastoral care and inclusive community spirit.
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