Oakham School
Oakham School
Oakham, England
Oakham is the perfect school for down-to-earth pupils who enjoy learning without putting much emphasis on outward appearances. The campus might not sparkle with classic boarding school glamour, but Oakham more than makes up for it with excellent teaching, a strong creative programme in music, art and drama, and really good sports. Pupils can choose between A Levels and the IB.
The Details
The Academics
Oakham offers an unusually broad range of subjects – with iGCSEs, A Levels, BTECs and the IB, pupils have all academic pathways open to them. The school is not particularly selective academically, making the current results all the more impressive: 45 percent A grades at A Level, 50 percent GCSEs in the 9 to 7 range, and an IB average of 34.7 points – more than four points above the global average.
We are particularly impressed by Oakham’s successes in art and design. Both subjects enjoy an excellent reputation, are very popular and taught at a high level – with great facilities and inspiring teacher support.
Languages Taught
German, English as a Foreign Language, French, Greek, Latin and Spanish.
The Boarding
More than half the pupils board. Most share rooms in twos or threes – a good balance between community and personal space. In total, there are ten boarding houses, all of which have been comprehensively renovated in recent years – modern, homely and well cared for.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
Oakham School is refreshingly down-to-earth and remarkably cosmopolitan – a combination rarely found in such a successful school. The atmosphere is characterised by genuine enthusiasm and natural warmth. The IB programme, in particular, attracts many international pupils who actively contribute to the school’s open and tolerant culture.
Oakham lives up to its commitment to holistic education. The extracurricular programme is exceptionally diverse – whether sport, music, theatre, art or numerous clubs and activities, every pupil can find their own stage here.
The support is noticeably strong – both inside and outside the classroom. The tutoring system, with regular weekly check-ins, ensures pupils receive targeted support, find their way and learn to prioritise.
Sport is a true flagship of the school. Over 30 sports are available – from sailing to fencing. Rugby, tennis and hockey stand out in particular, with Oakham traditionally very strong in these areas.
And last but not least: the school’s creative offerings are outstanding. Oakham is nationally renowned for its music. The Jerwood School of Design offers unique opportunities for those passionate about product design and engineering. The QE Theatre hosts five major productions each year – a real highlight of the school year.
Weaknesses
Visually, Oakham School may not be the most glamorous, but as the English say: do not judge a book by its cover!
Location
Oakham School is located in the charming town of Oakham in the county of Rutland.
Peterborough - 35 mins by car
Oakham School is ideal for curious, versatile pupils who don’t just want to “go to school” but are eager to actively shape school life – both in the classroom and beyond.
If you’re lucky, you’ll meet Simone Lorenz-Weir on campus. She’s one of the kindest, most capable teachers and IB experts we know!
Take a look at similar schools
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Gresham's School
St Edward's School
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