Compare International Schools in Oakham, United Kingdom

Location

Oakham School is located in Oakham, Rutland, England. The address is Chapel Close, Market Place, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6DT. The campus sits in the town centre with a setting described as close to Rutland Water in rural England.

Stages

Lower School (ages 11–13); Middle & Upper School (ages 13–17); Final Year (Year 13)

Type

The school is independent, co-educational, day and boarding.

Additional learning support

SEN and EAL (English as an Additional Language) provision is available.

Country affiliation

England

Religious affiliation

Christian foundation; Christian ethos; all pupils attend Chapel during the week; inclusive of other faiths.

School day structure

Roll Call begins at 08:15; the day includes tutor time, assemblies, and Chapel; lessons 1–6 with a morning break at 10:45 and lunch at 13:05; Supper is 18:00–19:15; Prep and social time follow; Saturdays include activities and fixtures.

Bus service

Pupil Bus Services operate routes from Leicester, Foxton, Rothley, Stamford, Long Bennington and other points to Oakham. Morning pick-ups range from around 07:15 to 08:05; evening returns run from Oakham to the same points, typically around 18:15–19:05.

Application / registration fees
- Registration fee: GBP 180, payable with the online Registration Form.

Tuition and boarding fees (termly amounts and annual totals — Academic Year 2026/27)
- Middle & Upper School (Years 9–13):
- Boarding: GBP 16,235 per term; VAT GBP 3,247; total per term including VAT GBP 19,482. Per year (3 terms): GBP 58,446.
- Weekly Boarding: GBP 14,160 per term; VAT GBP 2,832; total per term including VAT GBP 16,992. Per year (3 terms): GBP 50,976.
- Day (includes breakfast, lunch, supper plus morning and evening wraparound care): GBP 9,590 per term; VAT GBP 1,918; total per term including VAT GBP 11,508. Per year (3 terms): GBP 34,524.

- Middle School (Year 9) flexible options (fees shown per term, totals include VAT at 20%):
- Flexible Boarding — 2 nights: GBP 10,390 per term; VAT GBP 2,078; total per term GBP 12,468. Per year (3 terms): GBP 37,404.
- Flexible Boarding — 3 nights: GBP 10,640 per term; VAT GBP 2,128; total per term GBP 12,768. Per year (3 terms): GBP 38,304.
- Flexible Boarding — 4 nights: GBP 11,270 per term; VAT GBP 2,254; total per term GBP 13,524. Per year (3 terms): GBP 40,572.

- Lower School (Years 7 & 8) (fees shown per term, totals include VAT at 20%):
- Boarding: GBP 12,330 per term; VAT GBP 2,466; total per term GBP 14,796. Per year (3 terms): GBP 44,388.
- Weekly Boarding (6 nights): GBP 11,525 per term; VAT GBP 2,305; total per term GBP 13,830. Per year (3 terms): GBP 41,490.
- Flexible Boarding (5 nights): GBP 11,380 per term; VAT GBP 2,276; total per term GBP 13,656. Per year (3 terms): GBP 40,968.
- Flexible Boarding (4 nights): GBP 10,910 per term; VAT GBP 2,182; total per term GBP 13,092. Per year (3 terms): GBP 39,276.
- Flexible Boarding (3 nights): GBP 10,135 per term; VAT GBP 2,027; total per term GBP 12,162. Per year (3 terms): GBP 36,486.
- Flexible Boarding (2 nights): GBP 9,430 per term; VAT GBP 1,866; total per term GBP 11,316. Per year (3 terms): GBP 33,948.
- Day (includes breakfast, lunch, supper plus morning and evening wraparound care): GBP 7,865 per term; VAT GBP 1,573; total per term GBP 9,438. Per year (3 terms): GBP 28,314.

What the fees cover and optional / supplemental charges
- Core fees include tuition, textbooks, the majority of activities options, meals (day pupils: Monday morning–Saturday lunchtime; boarders: all meals in term time), access in term time to the Medical Centre, Sports Centre and library, and boarding and laundry charges for full and weekly boarders. A small number of variable expenses and optional extras are charged separately on the School Account.
- Typical supplemental charges (billed separately) include trips and expeditions, external public examination fees, individual Learning Support (where required beyond the standard provision), and individual music and drama lessons. One‑to‑one SEN learning support is charged per lesson; current published charges (from January 2025) include GBP 64.92 per 50‑minute one‑to‑one lesson (including VAT) and specific charges for assessments and invigilation.
- Textbooks not returned by departmental deadlines are charged to the School bill; such charges are added to the account and are not refundable once incurred. Personal possessions insurance cover is available at a published cost (example: GBP 8.31 per term under the Marsh scheme referenced in the School finance information). Visa/CAS compliance management for international pupils is charged (published fee examples vary in recent booklets; a published charge of GBP 750 for CAS processing appears in the 2025 finance information).
- Uniform and sportswear are supplied through Schoolblazer; full uniform lists are provided in the School handbooks and uniform orders are placed via the supplier. Uniform costs are not included in the core termly fee and are paid separately to the supplier.

Billing schedule and payment terms
- Tuition and boarding fees are charged termly in advance and are payable on or before the first day of the relevant School term. Payment of fees is due on the first day of the relevant School term.
- Direct Debit: the core termly fees may be paid by Direct Debit (available for UK bank accounts only) and may be split into four equal monthly instalments each term. Extras can either be collected with the first instalment or spread across the four monthly instalments for families on Direct Debit.
- Alternative payment methods: bank transfer, cheque; for extras the School accepts debit/credit card, bank transfer or cheque as they fall due. The School publishes its bank details for bank transfers and requests that the invoice reference be quoted on payment. Childcare vouchers may be applied to the boarding (pastoral care) element where eligible.
- Late payments attract interest and administration charges as set out in the School's finance information. The School may refuse attendance or withhold references while fees or supplemental charges remain unpaid.

Acceptance deposit and registration outcomes
- An Acceptance Deposit is payable when accepting an offered place. The deposit is treated as set out in the Parent Contract: the deposit is not refundable if the pupil does not take up a place (subject to the limited exception where the School fills the specific vacancy), and, unless otherwise specified, the deposit is credited (without interest) to the final invoice on the pupil's leaving. A full term's written notice is required in order to avoid further charges when withdrawing a pupil; failure to give the required notice will normally result in a term's fees being charged.

Fees in Advance (prepayment) scheme
- A Fees in Advance (prepayment) scheme is available under which a lump sum may be paid to cover future day or boarding fees; this scheme operates under its own terms and conditions and sets out how refunds and allocations are handled if a pupil does not start or leaves early. Refunds of unapplied prepayments are governed by the FIA Terms & Conditions and will be adjusted for any amounts owing to the School; prepayments may only be accepted after registration, deposit and acceptance. Any termly refund due to parents under the FIA scheme will be held on account unless immediate repayment is requested.

Refunds and notice on withdrawal (brief summary)
- If a parent withdraws acceptance before the child joins, written notice must be given by the first day of the term immediately preceding the start term to avoid further charges; if one term's notice is given the deposit is lost (subject to the narrow repayment exception) but no further fees are payable; if insufficient notice is given a term's fees become payable and the deposit will be credited against that liability. These provisions are set out in the School's Parent Contract and govern the handling of the Acceptance Deposit and fees on withdrawal.

Other practical notes on charges and accounts
- The School issues termly accounts showing core fees and any supplemental charges; queries about fees or extras should be directed to the Billing Officer / Pupil Accounts. The School charges for one‑to‑one Learning Support, assessments for access arrangements and certain examination-related costs; all one‑to‑one lessons are charged in arrears and missed lessons are chargeable unless properly cancelled in line with the Learning Support Terms.

(End of fee overview.)

Boarding Arrangements

Boarding is organised around a House system with Housemasters/Housemistresses, Tutors and Senior Pastoral Assistants/Matrons providing daily care within each House. Nearly every member of teaching staff is involved in House life to support pupils, who are encouraged to take on increasing responsibility for the care and leadership of others. The Medical Centre is staffed 24 hours a day with mental health practitioners and a team of trained staff to support pupil wellbeing.

Uniform Requirement

All pupils wear the Oakham School uniform. Lower School Girls' uniform requires 6 white blouses, 2 kilts, 1 black V-neck pullover (2 for boarders), 1 Oakham School blazer, 1 plain dark coat, 1 House badge, 6 pairs black socks or 6 pairs black tights, 1 pair sturdy black shoes, and 1 plain black bag or Oakham crested rucksack. Games kit includes an athletics vest, 2 black games shirts, a sweatshirt, a tennis shirt, a waterproof top, a black games skort, and a tennis skort if required, plus tracksuit bottoms and swimming kit as needed.

Food Options

Meals are served in Barraclough Dining Hall. The Catering Manager is responsible for ensuring that food purchased for use in the school is suitable for consumption and that high hygiene standards are maintained.

House System

The heart of Oakham pastoral care is based upon a House system. Houses provide a sense of belonging and opportunities to connect with the School and wider community; Housemasters/Housemistresses, Tutors and Senior Pastoral Assistants/Matrons support pupils with ongoing care and guidance, helping them develop leadership through House life.

Governance and Ownership

The Trustees of Oakham School govern the school, including the Directors of Oakham School Enterprises Ltd (OSEL). The school is a registered charity (No 1131425). Trustees oversee health and safety and set the governance framework, with day-to-day management led by the Head and Chief Operating Officer.

Curriculum

A connected curriculum guides learning across the school, emphasising the explicit teaching of knowledge, skills and values and the development of healthy habits. In Forms 4 and 5 pupils choose GCSE/IGCSE subjects, typically taking 9–10 GCSEs, with the option to take 8 GCSEs. Subjects are organised in Blocks A–E with options across languages, humanities, sciences, arts and technology. In Forms 6 and 7 pupils may choose the IB Diploma Programme or standalone courses including A-levels and BTECs, with most opting for the equivalent of three A-levels; since September 2023, each A-level and BTEC course has seven lessons per week to allow greater extension and support. Wider Curricula, PSHE and Careers are integrated, with elite programmes and opportunities such as Extended Projects (EPQs) to support pupils' broader development and aspirations.

Exam Results

Pupils achieve high standards in examinations in disciplines including performing arts and other subjects, with national-level successes in competitions.

Higher Education Progression

Careers provision provides impartial and broad advice and information to help pupils access post-school options, including higher education, and includes targeted support for elite pupils aiming for Oxbridge or other competitive institutions.

Gifted and Talented

There are elite programmes and extension opportunities for high-ability pupils, including EPQs and department-based opportunities; some pupils are guided toward Oxbridge or other competitive pathways.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Oakham School places strong pastoral care at its heart. The House system creates a sense of belonging and a framework for support, with tutors and staff guiding pupils throughout their time at Oakham. The school aims to foster care, courage, contribution and connection, and to provide an environment free from intimidation, harassment and bullying. Regular communication with parents and opportunities for pupil leadership support social and emotional development. A Medical Centre and mental health practitioners, together with staff trained in Youth Mental Health First Aid, underpin wellbeing support for pupils.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Specialist support is provided by the Learning Support Department. Pupils are profiled and receive individual support plans and speech and language assessments as part of a tailored approach. The school offers early intervention and targeted support to help pupils achieve their potential, with differentiation and in-class support where needed. The provision is aligned with the IB programmes and includes specialist profiling and language-related assessments.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

EAL is supported by qualified teachers in a dedicated EAL department. Initial screening determines English language ability on entry, with ongoing assessment to identify needs. Small-group teaching, one-to-one lessons and in-class support are provided as necessary. In Forms 1–3, EAL provision may replace or complement some language study as appropriate. The school provides access to language-learning resources and cultural activities to support language development, including mother tongue support where available.

Mental Wellbeing

Oakham is committed to promoting and safeguarding the physical, mental health and emotional wellbeing of pupils. The pastoral system is supported by a Medical Centre open 24 hours a day and by mental health practitioners to provide timely care. A significant portion of staff are trained in Youth Mental Health First Aid to support wellbeing needs. The school emphasises early intervention and supportive relationships to help pupils manage stress and wellbeing matters.

Safeguarding

Safeguarding is at the heart of Oakham's ethos. The school encourages an open, accepting attitude toward safeguarding and invites pupils and parents to raise concerns. There are designated safeguarding leads and a clear structure for reporting and escalation, backed by safeguarding training and policies aligned with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) and related guidance. The policy covers staff responsibilities, pupil welfare in and out of school, information sharing and working with parents and external partners.

History

Oakham School was founded in 1584 by Archdeacon Robert Johnson. It is a co-educational day and boarding school in Oakham, Rutland for pupils aged 11 to 18, with a 50:50 split of girls and boys and of boarders and day pupils. The school's history is preserved in the Oakham School Archives, which include works such as The Book of Oakham School and a monograph detailing the school's foundation and development. The Oakham School Foundation has supported the School since 2001 by funding buildings and bursaries, reflecting ongoing community involvement.

Community

Oakham uses a House system; Each House runs regular socials, house family activities and inter-house competitions. House events include pizza nights, bowling trips, house singing contests and sporting competitions, designed to help pupils build friendships across year groups and feel part of a supportive community. The Oakham School Foundation and the Oakham School Parent Prayer Group (OPPG) support the wider community and chaplaincy. Upper School information for new joiners describes social life in House and community-building within the campus.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

Oakham School has a Parent/Teacher Committee (PTA) that facilitates collaboration between parents and staff. Minutes from the committee show meetings held in Old Hall, with items discussed and reports documented. There are historical references to a Johnsons Parents Association, indicating longstanding parental involvement. The committee has addressed matters including school rules and activities such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme. Minutes and records from the PTA are preserved in the Oakham School Archives, reflecting a long-standing tradition of parental engagement.

Facilities Overview

Oakham School sits on 47 acres of grounds in Oakham, Rutland, with a mix of traditional buildings dating back to 1584 and modern facilities. The Mehra Science Facility and The Johnson Building anchor on‑site learning spaces, and the Queen Elizabeth Theatre and rehearsal spaces support performing arts. The campus features extensive sport and leisure facilities, including a full‑size swimming pool and a large sports hall. The site also hosts the Oakham Swim School and a Leisure Club for the local community.

Sports Facilities

Sports facilities include a full-size Sports Hall with markings for basketball, badminton, indoor cricket nets, a tennis court, volleyball and netball. There is a 25‑metre indoor swimming pool with four short course lanes. The campus includes three squash courts, a well‑equipped gym and 21 Astroturf flood‑lit tennis courts, plus flood‑lit outdoor hard courts and grass pitches for hockey, rugby, football and cricket. The Swim School operates on site, and the Oakham Leisure Club provides additional community facilities.

Academic Facilities

Academic spaces include the Mehra Science Facility and The Johnson Building. The Music School offers 15 individual practice rooms and two professional music studios, with a soundproof drum and percussion studio. Art and Design spaces comprise six Art studios and six Design Technology studios.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Oakham offers more than 125 activities each week, including 30 sports, 20 academic societies and clubs, 80 music concerts annually and five major drama productions a year. There are six Art studios and six Design Technology studios to support creative pursuits.

Academic & Intellectual

The Connected Curriculum integrates academic, pastoral and co-curricular learning to develop knowledge, skills and values. The Connected Curriculum maps five key skills across our curricula to ensure pupils embed and master these competencies: Communication, Social, Self-management, Research and Thinking. In the Upper School, pupils may choose between the IB Diploma Programme or standalone A-level/BTEC courses, with Extended Projects (EPQs) and other department-based opportunities. Since September 2023, each A-level/BTEC choice has seven lessons per week to provide greater extension, expansion and support; Careers provision offers impartial guidance on post-school options.

Arts & Creative

Creative and Performing Arts are a core subject area in the Lower School, including Creative and Performing Arts as part of the curriculum. In the Upper School, Theatre+ is offered as an IB Diploma Programme subject, alongside Music and Visual Arts; Drama and Dance are also available as GCSE options. The Arts are integrated within the curriculum and are supported by the broader Connected Curriculum framework.

Cultural & Language

Modern foreign languages offered include French, German and Spanish. Latin and Greek are available, including Greek and Latin (Gratin) as part of the options; Classical Civilisation is also offered within the curriculum. Music is part of the arts offerings and appears within the timetable alongside language and Classics studies as part of the broader curriculum.

Social & Hobbies

Community projects provide opportunities to work outside the classroom, in teams, and to develop communication and leadership skills. Sport, Music and Activities are part of the weekly co-curricular timetable, underscoring the school's commitment to broadening pupil interests beyond the classroom. The Connected Curriculum supports a range of clubs, societies and informal groups as part of a holistic education.

Community & Service

Community Project offers opportunities to work outside the classroom and tackle problems in teams, developing communication and leadership. Service and Leadership are central components of the Connected Curriculum, reflecting the school's emphasis on interpersonal skills as part of learning. The broader co-curricular and pastoral framework supports pupils' service-oriented engagement within the school community.

Leadership & Professional

The School's Careers provision provides impartial advice and information to help pupils access post-school options. The Connected Curriculum foregrounds Service and Leadership as core learning components, encouraging leadership opportunities across activities and projects. Community Project experiences contribute to developing leadership and collaborative skills.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

The Connected Curriculum emphasizes healthy habits and the development of both emotional and physical wellbeing throughout a pupil's education. The curriculum supports mental health and wellbeing as part of its holistic approach. Sport and physical activity are embedded in the weekly co-curricular timetable to promote physical well-being.

Admissions

1) Registration and expression of interest. Prospective families register interest by submitting the Oakham Registration Form. A registration fee of £150 is payable and the fee is non-refundable. Early registration is recommended and registrations are considered in the order in which they are received. Admission is not guaranteed and is subject to the School's Admissions Policy and Parent Contract.

2) References and entrance assessments. Admission is dependent on a satisfactory reference from the pupil's current school and on satisfactory performance in the appropriate Entrance Examination. For forms of entry, the entrance assessment may be the Oakham Entrance exam or the Common Entrance exam. Entry requirements are outlined in the current Admissions Policy.

3) Offers and acceptance. If a place is offered, it is subject to the current Admissions Policy and the Parent Contract. Acceptance of the place binds the family to the Parent Contract and its terms. The school may request information from the pupil's current school and may conduct other checks as part of the admission process. These terms for provision of educational services apply if the place is accepted.

4) Visa considerations for international applicants. Any pupil who does not hold a British passport or who does not have settled or pre-settled status must have a visa to study at Oakham. The School is a registered Child Student visa sponsor and will provide a CAS after a place is accepted. For international entry, a six-month lead time before the course start is required to apply for a visa. The School may use Fragomen to issue the CAS, and a visa compliance management fee is charged (the latest published figure is £750) and is applied to the first fee invoice after the CAS is issued. Further information on Child Student visas is available from UK government sources.

5) Documentation and next steps after offer. Place offers are sent to the family along with the required documentation; the completed form and registration fee are sent to the Admissions Office. The Admissions Office details and the official address are provided on the registration materials. Fees and payment options are described in the Bursary/Finance documentation and related communications.

6) Data protection and terms. Admission and related processes involve the processing of personal data about the family and pupil for registration, admissions, and communications. The School's privacy notice and the Parent Contract govern these terms and may be updated from time to time.

Scholarships

1) Sport scholarships. The School offers 13+ Sport Scholarships as part of its admission options.

2) Bursaries and financial assistance. Limited bursary funding is available to support with the costs of lessons in particular cases, and details are available through the Bursary Office. Contact the Finance Bursar or the Accounts team for information.

3) Music-related financial support. The School provides limited bursary funding to assist with music lessons in certain circumstances; further details can be discussed with the Director of Music.