Browse Oxford schools by age

 Abingdon Prep is a happy, friendly independent day school for boys aged 4 to 13. We foster a culture of exciting opportunity and seek to inspire a life-long love of learning. Our high academic standards, broad curriculum and ‘Other Half’ extra-curricular programme enable our boys to make the most of their time with us. True to the School’s founding values, we provide a nurturing community in which boys gain confidence and develop their potential.

Boys flourish at Abingdon Prep and happy boys make very good learners.

Prep main entry points are at 4 and 7 (assessed)

 Carrdus School is an independent co-educational day prep school for children aged 3-11. Situated just outside Banbury, Oxfordshire, our school offers academic rigour with adventure, and our aim is to give every child a happy and confident start to school life. Carrdus was graded ‘Excellent in all areas’ following the 2019 inspection, conducted by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI). The Carrdus Pathway is the beating heart of the school and instils a range of attributes in every child. Confidence, Imagination, Resilience, Independence, Aspiration and Empathy are embedded in every lesson, resulting in our curious young minds to discover and thrive..

At Chandlings Prep School, children don’t just learn in the classroom. Learning happens everywhere. Chandlings educate boys and girls aged 2-11 within 60 acres of beautiful grounds just five miles from Oxford. Indoors or outside, children are always learning. They practise team-building on the low-rope course or cooking in the food tech room. They’re creating in the DT room and acting in the mini-amphitheatre. Children are happy at Chandlings and 100% (2020) of our leavers got into their first choice of highly acclaimed secondary schools.

 Founded by Henry VIII, Christ Church Cathedral School Oxford, has a thriving Co-ed Nursery and Prep School for boys aged 3 - 13. With specialist teachers in all areas of the curriculum, our school prepares pupils for entry and scholarships to local independent schools and major boarding schools. Our grounds on Christ Church College Meadows gives plenty of opportunities for Woodland School, Games, and Outdoor Activities. The School is acclaimed for its musical achievements and supplying choristers to Christ Church College's internationally-renowned choir. A safe and happy School with a family atmosphere - we take care in getting to know our boys as individuals.

Cothill House is an all-boys' day and boarding preparatory school which houses approximately 220 boys aged 8-13. The school centres on and hopes to inspire in their pupils the core values of courage, originality, teamwork, humour, integrity, love of learning and love of life. Cothill boasts a wide range of spaces in which pupils can learn - from traditional classrooms to extensive grounds and woodland, as well as a skate park and climbing wall!

 Emmanuel Christian School aim to educate heart, soul, mind and strength. They encourage holistic learning which creatively meets and exceeds any national standard through seven contours which are embedded in the curriculum and practice: promoting the Christian faith, nurturing a Christian conscience, developing confidence, fostering curiosity, encouraging creativity, expecting contribution and celebrating growth.  The aim at Emmanuel is "every child, rooted in the unchanging love of God, develops healthy relationships of trust with adults, relationships marked by love with their peers, a relationship of wonder at and care for the world around them, and confidence and trust in their unique gifts."

 Situated in Abingdon, the Manor Preparatory School is an independent co-educational day school that welcomes children aged 2-11. The Manor’s most recent ISI Inspection saw the school receive the highest possible rating of ‘Excellent’ in all areas. Inspectors commented that: “Pupils approach every day with an overwhelming passion to learn and develop.” This is in part due to the exceptionally caring and invigorating tone of the school, where laughter is an essential part of the school day. Every child is encouraged to push themselves to new challenges and fulfil their potential, resulting in outstanding results academically, on the sports field, and in the creative and performing arts.

Moulsford is a thriving independent Prep School of 370 boys aged 4 - 13 years, set in picturesque grounds on the banks of the River Thames in South Oxfordshire. 

We aim for our boys to receive the broadest possible education, while remembering that they will learn best when happy and settled. Our down-to-earth, family-focussed approach embraces the fact that boys of this age should be having fun at the same time as learning. 

Boys progress, many with scholarship awards, to leading senior independent day and boarding schools.  Extra-curricular opportunities include judo, fencing, stand-up paddle boarding, sailing, kayaking, clay pigeon shooting, and photography. 

 Founded as part of New College in 1379 and situated at the heart of the University of Oxford, New College School is one of the country’s leading pre-prep and prep schools, feeding to top independent senior and boarding schools.

The School has a reputation for academic excellence, nurturing pastoral care, and dynamic creative arts, while it takes its musical lead from its world-famous choristers.  NCS pupils from the age of four have unrivalled access to stunning educational and cultural facilities and resources - from medieval manuscripts to iPads. Emphasis is placed on educating the whole child, balancing high academic achievement with personal growth in sport, art, drama and music. 

Oxford Montessori School embrace freedom and creativity, believing that this  alternative environment and approach is what best enables their young pupils to thrive and develop. Their pupil-led approach, which emphasises happiness and wellbeing, aims to minimise stress and in turn allow students to thrive.  Students at OMS are actively encouraged to take responsibility for their own learning and ensure that they use all resources and support available to them effectively to aid success. Students are also encouraged to contribute their views and make informed decisions about their education. 

 Located in the heart of the beautiful riverside town of Henley-on-Thames, Rupert House is a happy and high-achieving prep school for boys and girls aged 3 to 11. From the moment children arrive they are encouraged to adopt a Growth Mindset, learning the values of creativity, respect, courage and resilience that will enable them to stand tall in the world. Pupils develop their own individual pathway and are inspired to reach their full potential within our supportive, caring and nurturing environment. In 2021, 100% pupils were offered places at all the independent schools they applied for, with many achieving academic, sports, art and music scholarships.

 Rye St Antony School is an independent day and boarding school for girls aged 3 to 18 years and boys aged 3 to 11. Rated ‘Excellent’ by the Independent Schools Inspectorate, Rye now boasts 91 years of outstanding education and exceptional pastoral care. We offer an ambitious and exciting school experience, all from the heart of Oxford, and are committed to giving every child every opportunity available to become who they want to be. Our inspiring staff work with each individual pupil to ignite their curiosity for learning and to build their confidence to take on new challenges.  

 St Hugh's School is a preparatory school with approximately 350 pupils aged 3-13. The school is co-educational, day and boarding, offering both weekly and flexi-boarding. The school describe themselves as "an exceptionally happy and nurturing place to be at school, where opportunities abound for children to discover and develop their talents." The school is founded on six core principles: kindness, respect, independence, collaboration, courage and curiosity, which they hope will aid their pupils in becoming successful,  well-rounded, considerate and friendly young people.

 St John’s Priory School is an ‘Excellent’ rated small and successful co-educational day prep school and Nursery for boys and girls from 3 – 11 years. Set in the heart of Banbury town, SJP offers a tradition of academic excellence through a vibrant all-round education. The Family First approach ensures a nurturing environment and offers flexible before and after school provision. Small class sizes enable the children to develop into adventurous, confident and engaging learners and our teachers to tailor the curriculum to the individual needs of each child. SJP strives to provide opportunities for all children to flourish and to develop their individual talents. Whether through music, art, sport or academia, there really is something for everyone! 

The Oratory Prep is a co-educational day and boarding Catholic school for children aged 2-13, as well as  a nursery. Set within 65 acres of South Oxfordshire countryside located 20 minutes from Reading.  They maintain the motto of their founder, ‘Cor Ad Cor Loquitur’ ('Heart Speaks to Heart') with an emphasis on being courteous and respectful, showing kindness, consideration and compassion with a willingness to forgive and be open to change. This is reflected in the relationships between the children and their teachers and they whole school community.

 Windrush Valley School located in Oxfordshire prides itself on providing an inspiring and stimulating curriculum for children aged 3 – 11. Its high standard of education combined with nurturing and supportive teaching allows the children to build their self-esteem and independence that they can rely on for the rest of their lives. This affordable school offers small class sizes which enables a positive learning environment where children are challenged to achieve their full potential socially, academically and emotionally to become resourceful innovators and leaders of the future. 

 Abingdon is a leading independent day and boarding school for boys aged 11-18 (full and weekly boarding from 13).  

Abingdon enjoys the very best in academic standards, music, sport and the arts in a caring and supportive environment where students are motivated to succeed. They aim to teach and develop the resources, skills and resilience that students need to feel confident in embracing their future. Students are encouraged to seize opportunities and to appreciate their responsibilities to each other and to society; and we promote a culture of mutual respect and equality, and we celebrate diversity.

Senior school main entry points are at 11, 13 and 16 (School's own exam; or transfer process from Abingdon Prep School)

Bloxham is a co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 11-18. As a small school with around 500 students, Bloxham pride themselves on a holistic focus where every child is known and can flourish. The school's challenging academic programme is complemented by a broader curriculum which inspired curiosity, rigour and ambition. Christian values are embedded into the school, aiming to nurture a compassionate spirit so that students can "become a force for good in an ever-changing world".

 Bruern Abbey School is distinct from other schools as they focus their attention on boys with learning difficulties such as dyslexia, dyspraxia and dyscalculia. The school has a unique offering to boys, aged 8 to 16, and covers Common Entrance exams, GCSEs and other nationally recognised qualifications. Alongside the timetable there is a full and varied sports programme with co-curricular offerings to enhance the school experience. At the heart of what Bruern Abbey School stands for is the mission to offer bespoke and expert teaching coupled with a broad appreciation of the values of an all-round education. Boys can decide to be a day pupil or boarder 

 Cranford School is a co-educational private day school for students aged 3-18 in Moulsford, a village in South Oxfordshire. In September 2020, a sixth form was added and boys were admitted into years 7–12, with a view to the school gradually becoming fully co-educational. The school's core values are happiness, confidence, motivation, challenge and generosity of spirit.  These values permeate all aspects of school life, from teaching and learning, broad curriculum and strong pastoral care through to the respectful and supportive relationships pupils, staff and parents develop with each other. 

 d’Overbroeck's is an independent, co-educational day and boarding school for students aged 11–18. The school  is made up of three school sites; Years 7-11, The International School and the Sixth Form. Rated 'Excellent' by the ISI, d'Overbroeck's strive to continue to perform at the top by maintaining the right mix of challenge and support,  and an emphasis on fun, student self-expression, and truly personalised learning. The Principal, Patrick, Horne, says: " at d’Overbroeck’s, teaching excellence and individual support inspire our students to be their best. Our holistic approach will ensure your child develops the skills to succeed in the future, too."

 Situated a mile from Oxford city centre, Headington School, a day and boarding school for girls, occupies a secluded 23-acre site. Headington School is a selective school with outstanding academic results at GCSE and A Level and is among the top performing schools in the UK, benefiting from top-calibre teaching staff and academic and extra-curricular choice. With key entry points at 11, 13 and 16, Headington also offers flexible boarding options, superlative facilities and an exciting programme of extra-curricular activities. Headington prepares girls for the future, whatever it may hold, and helps them explore and develop the core values of creativity, confidence, collaboration, compassion, courage and curiosity.

 Kingham Hill School is a Christian co-educational private day and boarding school for children aged 11–19, located near the village of Kingham in Oxfordshire.  Helping every pupil fulfil their academic potential is the hallmark of Kingham Hill, although their view of success in education extends beyond academic success. The wide range of experiences and co-curricular provision on offer, in sport, music, drama and elsewhere, combined with excellent facilities, make for cheerful and self disciplined pupils who have an appetite for discovery, and an ambition to make their mark. 

 LVS Oxford is a specialist school, offering day placements to young people with autism aged 11-19.

With a structured educational environment and an approach that focuses on developing young people’s independence and confidence, we equip students with the skills needed for academic success, employment and dealing with everyday life. LVS Oxford students gain confidence, make meaningful progress and achieve their ambitions.

All applicants are carefully considered to ensure that the school is suitable for the young person’s age, ability, aptitude and special educational needs and that the placement is compatible with the provision of efficient education for other pupils already attending the school.

 Magdalen College School is a private day school for boys aged 7-18 and for girls in the sixth form. It was founded by William Waynflete about 1480 as part of Magdalen College, Oxford. MCS not only draws on the global University city in which they are located, but also collaborates with local communities through community service, the arts, personal and professional development, supporting pupils to become confident and excel in all areas.

 Our Lady's Abingdon is a Catholic, co-educational day school for pupils aged 7–18. The school's mission statement:  “Whatever you do, do it well” encapsulates  their ethos of individualised attention and support. Small class sizes allow children to receive individual attention, and our fun and innovative learning ensures they are fully engaged and achieving excellent academic results. The outstanding system of pastoral care is at the centre of everything they do: "each child is a unique person, with talents to be nurtured. 

 Oxford High School GDST is an energetic and diverse day school for girls aged 4 to 18 years, where each student is empowered to be whoever they want to be. Those who find their way here are curious, outward-looking and sparky; they delight in learning and questioning, they care about the world in which we live in, and are fearless in the pursuit of their passions. Our vision is for a pioneering and student-led education, and each pupil is immensely supported to go beyond academics, in self, and pastorally to equip them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed in whatever path they forge for themselves.

 Established in 1988, Oxford Sixth Form College is a co-educational day and boarding college for students aged 15-19. Oxford Sixth Form College offer a range of programmes  across A-Level, GCSE and BTEC. Very small classes (maximum of 8 at A-Level), expert tuition and dedicated mentors provide students with excellent support. Despite the small size, there are students from over 35 nationalities, creating a warm, vibrant and diverse community who support and celebrate one another.  

 Rye St Antony School is an independent day and boarding school for girls aged 3 to 18 years and boys aged 3 to 11. Rated ‘Excellent’ by the Independent Schools Inspectorate, Rye now boasts 91 years of outstanding education and exceptional pastoral care. We offer an ambitious and exciting school experience, all from the heart of Oxford, and are committed to giving every child every opportunity available to become who they want to be. Our inspiring staff work with each individual pupil to ignite their curiosity for learning and to build their confidence to take on new challenges.  

 Sibford School offers an inclusive ethos where the individual really matters. Small class sizes and knowing each pupil well means individuals are supported and encouraged to achieve their aspirations. Two boarding houses offer full, weekly and flexi-boarding packages and, with no Saturday lessons, pupils can enjoy boarding activities and weekend pursuits. Sibford’s Sixth Form (refurbishment Summer 2022) offers A Level and vocational subjects, a supportive careers department, excellent sporting facilities and a wide ranging extra-curricular program. Underlying all of this is a community guided by Quaker principles: equality, peace, integrity and stewardship.  

 St Clare's, Oxford is an independent, co-educational day and boarding college located in Oxford. They have been offering the International Baccalaureate Diploma for over 40 years, longer than any other school or college in England. They are also an IB World School. Students from over 45 countries study at St Clare's. The atmosphere is informal and friendly, with an equal emphasis on hard work and developing personal responsibility. The average point score is 39 (world average 33) and the school is ranked highly for results. Students regularly gain the maximum 45 points placing them in the top 1% of students globally. 

 St Edward's School, Oxford is an independent, co-educational, boarding and day school for ages 13-18. Known as 'Teddies', St Edward's occupies extensive 100 acre grounds and historical buildings. Pupils at St Edward's excel across the board, with 90% achieving the top grades at A Level or IB. The school say it is their  mission to prepare our pupils for the rest of their lives by encouraging their passions and talents, enabling them to discover new ones and supporting them to achieve their own potential. 

 St Helen and St Katharine is a leading independent day school for girls aged 9–18 with enquiring minds, based in Abingdon, six miles south of Oxford. We support every student to get where she wants to go. No matter if you have known you want to be an astronaut since you were six or see your future as an empty path ready to be filled with ideas, there is space at St Helen’s for every kind of ambition and every kind of girl. Opening in 2022, our brand new Sixth Form Centre will provide students with the space and opportunity to grow their academic and extracurricular interests in readiness for their future.

 The Unicorn School is a specialist, independent day school for children, aged 7-16 years, who have Specific Learning Differences; dyslexia, dyspraxia and dyscalculia, and those who need support with Speech, Language & Communication.  We are a small, nurturing school and we offer education up to GCSE. We help pupils to build self-confidence, and our unique approach bridges the gap between our pupils’ current performance and their potential achievement. Our goal is for every child to flourish, leaving with the confidence to learn, the appetite for study, and the desire to continue to succeed in their education and beyond.

Tudor Hall is an Independent day and boarding school for girls aged 11-18. Tudor Hall is nestled within the heart of the Oxfordshire countryside. Individuality is encouraged and valued, resulting in strong, ambitious, and determined young adults. A plethora of diverse co-curricular opportunities complement the academic provision allowing each girl to find something that can become their passion. Whether a day pupil or boarder, each Tudor Hall student is immersed into a world of possibilities and opportunities, enabling them to grow personally and academically. Tudor Hall students live by the school motto ‘Habeo ut Dem’ (I have, that I may give’), and are ready to embark on the challenges of modern society.

 Wychwood School is a day and boarding school for girls aged 11-18. The girls achieve academic excellence through creativity of thought and leave school with the wisdom and courage to find their place and space in the world. Wychwood focuses on innovation, collaboration, creativity and life skills to deliver added value to all its pupils. The girls have every opportunity for success across academics, music, the arts, drama, sports and beyond. The highly dedicated staff empower all girls to discover their passion and skills while providing first class education.