Oundle School: Reviews, Rankings, Fees, And More

2023: 74% 9-7 at GCSE; 62.9% A*/A at A level.

2022: 85% 9-7 at GCSE; 65% A*/A at A level (87% A*-B).

Evidently, teaching and learning has been and will be a top priority in Oundle School. Here’s a sneak peak into their operations that have led to their stellar performance over the years: 

• Inclusive Approach: Oundle School welcomes a diverse intake, accommodating students with varying academic abilities, even while maintaining a high standard of achievement. The school’s commitment to nurturing all students is reflected in its retention of GCSE underperformers.

• Diverse A-level Subjects: A wide range of A-level subjects are offered, with a focus on core disciplines such as maths, chemistry, history, biology, physics, English literature, and geography. Modern foreign languages, including French, Spanish, and Latin, enjoy strong participation and impressive results.

• Engineering and STEM Excellence: Oundle School boasts a remarkable engineering heritage and a state-of-the-art Patrick Engineering Centre within its STEM campus. The centre’s advanced facilities, including 3D printing capabilities with diverse materials, inspire creative problem-solving and hands-on learning. Pupils engage in practical applications, from welding to innovative engineering projects like model racing vehicles.

• Holistic Science Education: The school’s commitment to science education is reflected in well-equipped facilities and practical learning experiences. Students are encouraged to put theoretical knowledge into practice, as evident in extension work such as creating analgesics. The EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) allows students to conduct their experiments.

• Language Excellence: Oundle School takes a unique approach to language teaching, offering seven languages, including Russian, Arabic, and Chinese, as two or three-year courses up to GCSE level. The modern languages department stands out for its inspirational teaching, challenging the language decline trend at A level. Students engage in wide reading, lateral thinking, and public debate through courses like the Quadrivium.

• Engaging Learning Environment: The school’s focus on practical skills is exemplified in the Engineering Centre, where students start with artisan techniques before delving into advanced technologies. This approach extends to language studies, where classroom engagement and teaching quality play a pivotal role in students’ language choices.

Of course, academics is only 1 part of the academic journey. Extracurricular activities are also an important component of each pupil’s experience here at Oundle School. Here are some of the activities you can find in the school:

• Yarrow Gallery: The Yarrow Gallery stands as a tribute to former pupil Eric Yarrow and serves as a space to showcase both student and visiting artist exhibitions. A diverse range of artworks, from intricate paper cuts to lifelike sculptures, reflect the astonishing maturity and skill of students’ creations.

• Vibrant Arts Scene: Oundle School boasts a thriving arts scene, with A-level art and Pre-U art history offerings. Fine art disciplines, including drawing, painting, and sculpture, take centre stage. Students have the opportunity to engage in various artistic mediums, including textiles and photography within the art A-level curriculum.

• Choral Excellence: Choral singing is a longstanding tradition at Oundle, involving all students in four choirs and weekly congregational practices. The school’s rendition of iconic pieces like “Jerusalem” adds a spirited element to events, fostering a sense of unity and friendly competition.

• Musical Diversity: Oundle’s musical landscape is rich and diverse, featuring multiple orchestras, ensembles, and chamber groups. Students benefit from numerous performance opportunities, including lunchtime concerts and even participation in the annual Oundle International Festival, celebrating music, film, and theatre.

• Theatrical Productions: The Stahl Theatre, a converted chapel, hosts school plays alongside performances by national touring companies. Pupils gain professional experience in all aspects of theatre production, guided by a dedicated director, technical team, and support staff.

• Community Engagement: Oundle School values community involvement, offering a community action programme as an alternative to compulsory drill sessions. Pupils contribute to special needs schools, sports coaching, environmental projects, museums, and more, fostering a sense of responsibility and making a positive impact on the local community.

• Diverse Afternoons: Tuesdays and Thursdays are dedicated to Voluntary Afternoon Sessions (Vols), where pupils explore their interests through activities and societies. With nearly 50 options available, including debating, climbing, engineering, and running the school’s radio station, students have ample opportunities for self-expression and skill development.

• Sports and Wellbeing: Oundle School’s dedication to sports and physical wellbeing is evident in its Sports MasterPlan. While excelling in rugby, cricket, hockey, swimming, and netball, the school is committed to expanding into activities such as rowing, dance, and cycling. The focus extends beyond competition, encouraging lifelong physical activity and challenging gender stereotypes in sports.