Oakham School Review: Rankings, Fees, And More
Discover what sets Oakham School apart in the UK boarding school scene. From academic excellence to a strong co-curricular culture, this review breaks down everything parents need to know—fees, facilities, results, and real student life. Looking for the right fit? Start here.
Table of Contents
Oakham School Summary
- Type of school: Co-educational
- Age range: 10-18
- Pupils: 1044
- Boarders: 50%
- Full Boarding Fees: £13,878 – £17,688 (inclusive of VAT)
- 2024 GCSE Results: 50% 9-7
- 2024 A Level Results: 45% A*-A
- 2024 IB results: 34.7 point average
Oakham School Overview
Founded in 1584, Oakham School delivers academic success through a synergistic blend of tradition and modern ambition. Located in the market town of Rutland, it’s one of the first schools in the UK to fully embrace co-education, now home to over 1,000 pupils with an equal mix of boys and girls. Academically, Oakham offers both A-levels and the International Baccalaureate Diploma—giving students options based on their study goals. Its academic approach emphasises critical thinking, creativity, and real-world relevance, with a broad subject offering that ranges from Languages to Computer Science. Recent leavers have secured places at top universities in the UK and overseas, including Oxbridge and Ivy League institutions.
Beyond the classroom, Oakham is known for its outstanding co-curricular programme, with over 30 sports, 80 music concerts each year, and a vibrant drama scene. The school’s 16 boarding and day houses foster strong pastoral care and community spirit. Facilities include a modern sports centre, a music school with a recording studio, and a state-of-the-art Design and Technology department. Fees are affordable, with flexible options for younger pupils.
Whether your priority is academic excellence, holistic development, or a nurturing environment, Oakham offers a compelling case for families seeking a well-rounded British boarding experience.
Oakham School Courses
Now, let’s look at some of the popular courses offered at Oakham.
In Years 10 and 11, pupils follow a wide-ranging GCSE curriculum that balances core subjects—English, Mathematics, Sciences—with a rich choice of electives such as Latin, Drama, Music, Computer Science, and Design & Technology. The emphasis is on developing intellectual curiosity, strong foundations, and independent thinking—preparing students not just for exams, but for success beyond school.
Oakham provides a flexible and broad curriculum designed to suit different learning styles and academic goals. At Sixth Form level, students can choose between A-levels and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. This dual-track system gives students the freedom to tailor their education: those who prefer subject specialisation often opt for A-levels, while those looking for breadth and global recognition may choose the IB.
Oakham School Fees
For families seeking a full boarding experience in the Middle and Upper School (Years 9–13), the termly fee is £14,740, with VAT bringing the total to £17,688 per term. This includes tuition, textbooks, all meals during term time, use of the school’s medical and pastoral services, sports centre, and laundry.
For younger students in Forms 1 and 2 (Years 7–8), full boarding is priced at £11,565 per term (total: £13,878 with VAT). Weekly and flexible boarding options are also available—for example, three-night boarding costs £9,740 per term before VAT (£11,688 total). Even students in Lower 1 (Year 6) can access boarding, with full boarding at £10,575 per term, or flexible arrangements starting from two to five nights a week.
Oakham’s fees are inclusive of most extras—meals, academic materials, access to co-curricular activities, and facilities. Optional charges may apply for trips, exams, music or drama lessons, and one-to-one learning support. This transparent pricing model helps parents plan with confidence while ensuring students enjoy a full and enriching boarding experience.
Oakham School Rankings and Results
Oakham School continues its track record of academic strength across GCSE, A-level, and IB qualifications, reinforcing its position as a well-rounded, high-performing independent school. Oakham School was ranked 208th in the 2024 national GCSE league tables, reflecting steady upward momentum in academic outcomes.
In the 2024 examinations, at GCSE, 50% of all grades awarded were 9–7, while at A-level, 45% of students achieved A–A grades*— showing the school’s ability to prepare pupils for top university entry.
Meanwhile, those taking the IB Diploma earned an average of 34.7 points, significantly above the global average—an achievement that highlights both the depth of the curriculum and the strength of academic support provided.
Oakham Schooll Boarding Experience
Boarding at Oakham isn’t just about where students sleep—it’s about how they grow. With a 50:50 mix of boarders and day pupils and an equal split between boys and girls, Oakham offers a balanced, down-to-earth community. Each pupil belongs to a House—more than just a place to live, it’s a tight-knit support system with its own identity, traditions, and spirit. Speaking of traditions, boarders can experience over 60 interhouse competitions across sport, music, and more— building friendly rivalry and lifelong friendships.
Care is personal and constant. Each House is led by a Housemaster or Housemistress, backed by tutors, matrons, and senior students. Around-the-clock medical care, a full-time Chaplain, and a dedicated catering team ensure students are well-supported in every way. From structured routines to shared meals and weekend activities, the boarding ethos encourages independence, responsibility, and belonging—giving students a home where they feel seen, safe, and supported
Oakham School Pastoral Care
Oakham School’s pastoral is evident—day after day—through the small, steady routines that make young people feel safe, understood, and ready to face the world.
Each pupil is anchored in a House, where a team of adults—Housemaster or Housemistress, tutors, and a matron—know them as individuals, not just names on a roll.
But care at Oakham goes further. The on-site Medical and Pastoral Centre is open 24/7, staffed by nurses and mental health professionals who are there when it matters. There’s also a Clinical Psychologist, access to counselling, and a clear pathway of support. Conversations about wellbeing aren’t hidden—they’re built into daily life through PSHE, tutorials, and open-door policies.
At its best, pastoral care isn’t about crisis management. It’s about noticing when someone’s not quite themselves. At Oakham, that’s part of the culture.
Oakham School Application Deadline
Boarding applications must be submitted by September of the year before the intended start date. For example, students applying for the next academic year must complete their applications by September.
Oakham School Extracurricular Activities
Oakham offers over 125 activities beyond the classroom—giving students real opportunities to explore, lead, and discover what drives them. Whether on the field, on stage, in the workshop, or out in the community, pupils are encouraged to get involved and push their own boundaries.
Sport
From casual participation to high-level competition, sport at Oakham is for everyone. Students can train and compete in over 30 sports, supported by expert coaches and a full-time Strength and Conditioning team. The facilities are first-class: a 40-acre playing field, floodlit all-weather pitches, an indoor pool, squash courts, five tennis/netball courts, a modern gym, and a fully equipped fitness centre. Students learn more than technique—they develop discipline, teamwork, and confidence through sport.
Creative Arts
Creativity is taken seriously at Oakham. Whether it’s Art, Drama, Music, or Design & Technology, pupils are given room to experiment, express, and excel. In Art, six dedicated studios offer access to painting, sculpture, textiles, printmaking, digital photography, and more. Visiting artists, gallery trips, and workshops enrich the experience. Many students go on to top creative universities to study subjects from Architecture to Fashion.
In Drama, productions bring pupils of all ages together—building confidence on and off stage. Music is a powerhouse at Oakham, with nearly 40 music staff, 80+ concerts annually, and regular international tours. The music department includes two tech rooms, multiple practice spaces, and a chapel known for its acoustics. Pupils can join choirs, orchestras, chamber groups, and compete nationally.
Community, Leadership & Service
Oakham’s co-curricular life isn’t just about skills—it’s about character. Students take part in charity fundraising, with events led by pupils and over £20,000 raised annually for local and global causes. Service options include the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Combined Cadet Force, and Voluntary Action, all designed to build resilience, leadership, and social responsibility.
Societies such as Model United Nations, Matthews Society, and the Freddie Groome Enterprise Challenge provide academic stretch and space for deeper thinking. Whether it’s lifesaving, sailing, cooking, or debating, Oakham encourages students to try something new—and make it their own.
Oakham School Reviews
“I chose Oakham School for my children primarily for the small class sizes and the family atmosphere – I wanted them to receive individual care and not be ‘invisible’ children who are overlooked because they are quiet and well behaved. I think Oakham School’s two greatest strengths are its ethos and its staff. The school offers so many ways for children to develop as individuals beyond the classroom; it isn’t just an exam factory where getting an A* is the be-all and end-all. I have three children with very different personalities and interests but I am confident that Oakham will bring out the best in each of them. I think the staff are extremely caring and supportive of the children; the teachers do so much more than just teach their subject.”
Oakham School Contact Information
- Official Website: https://www.oakham.rutland.sch.uk
- Location: Chapel Close, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6DT
- Email address: enquiries@oakham.rutland.sch.uk
- Phone: +44 (0)1572 758500
Frequently Asked Questions
Applications must be submitted by September of the year before the intended start date.
Oakham offers both A-levels and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma in Sixth Form, along with a broad GCSE programme in earlier years—allowing students to choose a path that suits their strengths and ambitions.
Boarding fees cover tuition, textbooks, all meals during term time, access to sports and medical facilities, laundry, and most activities. Extras like trips, music lessons, or exam fees may be charged separately.
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Apply To Oakham School Today!
Speak to us today for free application assistance and education advice. Our expert consultants are more than happy to help!