d’Overbroeck’s Reviews, Rankings, Fees, And More

Here’s what it’s like inside a boarding house only for sixth formers:

• Global Diversity: Approximately half of the 400-strong sixth form cohort chooses to board, with an impressive 80% of boarders hailing from various international backgrounds. The boarding community is a vibrant blend of cultures, resembling a cosmopolitan university atmosphere.

• International Boarders: The boarding community reflects the school’s international character, with 52 nationalities represented. Notably, China, Russia, Ukraine, and Turkey contribute significant numbers to this diverse mix.

• Co-ed Boarding Houses: Two co-ed boarding houses cater to lower sixth form students. Islip House, a modern and well-equipped facility built in 2017, provides a comfortable and contemporary boarding environment. The rooms are mainly twin occupancy, creating a social and interactive atmosphere.

• St Aldates House: Another boarding option, St Aldates House, offers single rooms and is located across the city. While it offers privacy, students enjoy a vibrant student life with a convenient 20-minute ride on public transport to the school.

• Upper Sixth Options: Upper Sixth students can opt for new single-occupancy bedsit accommodations, managed by on-site boarding staff. Alternatively, they have the choice to reside with local families. While some parents find this arrangement acceptable, room for improvement is suggested, with potential for better matching of students to host families.

• Home Boarding Dynamics: Students have a degree of agency in selecting both their host family and a friend to home board with, contributing to a comfortable and supportive environment.

• Flexibility and Harmony: While roommates are assigned for lower sixth formers, the school allows adjustments if needed. This flexibility, along with the generally homely and harmonious atmosphere, promotes a positive living experience.

Vibrant Extracurricular Landscape: d’Overbroeck’s School boasts a dynamic extra-curricular programme that embodies the values of choice, engagement, and fun. The approach to enrichment is designed to provide students with opportunities beyond the classroom, encouraging them to explore their passions and interests. For students in years 7 to 9, the school dedicates two periods off-timetable each week to a wide array of activities. These offerings are constantly evolving to cater to the changing preferences and passions of different year groups, ensuring a fresh and engaging experience.

Debating and Public Speaking Excellence: At d’Overbroeck’s, the culture of debating and public speaking stands out as a hallmark of the school’s extra-curricular prowess. The school consistently excels in these domains, participating in prestigious competitions like the Oxford Youth Parliament and making its mark on a broader stage. This commitment not only hones students’ communication and critical thinking skills but also empowers them to become confident and articulate individuals.

Lower Sixth Enrichment: For lower sixth formers, a distinctive enrichment programme awaits, providing a range of options that extend beyond mainstream sports. This programme, scheduled for two afternoons a week, offers a diverse array of activities that cater to both traditional and unconventional interests. From sports to creative pursuits like knitting, psychology, film, polo, and aerial silks, d’Overbroeck’s ensures that there is indeed “something for everyone.”

Broadening Horizons with the ‘Plus’ Programme: The school’s commitment to broadening horizons extends to A-level students through the ‘Plus’ programme. This initiative encourages students to expand their academic pursuits and explore subjects beyond their chosen A-level curriculum. By providing opportunities to delve into different disciplines, d’Overbroeck’s nurtures well-rounded individuals with a holistic understanding of the world.

Enrichment Beyond the Classroom: The school values external engagement and invites a plethora of guest speakers to share their insights with the students. These speakers range from esteemed university professors and admissions tutors to accomplished writers, scientists, and entrepreneurs. Their contributions not only complement classroom learning but also inspire students by exposing them to a diverse range of perspectives and experiences.

Music, Drama, and Artistic Expression: In the realm of music and drama, d’Overbroeck’s maximises its resources by utilising unique performance venues like the Sheldonian Theatre. Despite lacking large performance spaces, the school leverages its connections to create memorable experiences for its students. The music scene is vibrant, with peripatetic lessons, ensembles, and a diverse range of musical genres. Drama serves as a unifying force, focusing on quality performance and creativity. Despite challenges, the absence of a dedicated performing arts centre fosters ingenuity and strong links with professional theatre.

A Holistic Approach to Sport: While d’Overbroeck’s may not be known for a traditional focus on sports, the school ensures that students remain active and engaged through a diverse range of physical activities. With access to facilities at Oxford University and Oxford Brookes, the school offers opportunities for students to participate in activities such as football, basketball, rugby, netball, handball, and lacrosse. The emphasis is on participation, inclusivity, and promoting a sense of well-being.