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School Name

Oundle School

Category

UK Senior Schools

Types

Senior school

Pupil type

Co-ed

Boarding-Day

Boarding

Day

Curriculums

A-Level

GCSE

Pupil age range

11-18

Location

Northamptonshire

Oundle School

Focus 

Opportunities for all 

Day fees 2024/25

$34,100–$44,900 (incl. VAT)

Boarding fees 2024/25

$52,200–$68,800 (incl. VAT)

Pupils 

1,121

Ages

11–18

Spear’s Review

Nestled in a charming market town to the north-west of Cambridge, Oundle School is a remarkable blend of history and modernity, with its buildings—both ancient and contemporary—scattered throughout the town. The school takes great pride in ensuring its students not only excel academically but also become responsible and engaged members of the local community.

Despite its relatively large intake, Oundle places a strong emphasis on pastoral care, ensuring that each student feels supported and valued. The house system is central to this ethos, providing a close-knit environment where pupils can thrive both personally and academically.

Founded in 1556, Oundle maintains a proud tradition of excellence while also looking to the future. The school boasts cutting-edge facilities, such as a state-of-the-art science and technology centre equipped with lasers, wind tunnels and large 3D printers, alongside prestigious academic scholarships that encourage students to reach their full potential.

Academics

74 per cent of GCSE results are grades 7–9.

67 per cent of A-Level results are A* or A.

University and college destinations

On average, around 10 per cent of Oundle students receive Oxbridge offers. More than 75% progress to Russell Group universities, while approximately 5 per cent go on to study at overseas universities.

Head teacher

As of September 2025, Dominic Oliver will assume the role of head of Oundle School. He was appointed in April 2024, succeeding Sarah Kerr-Dineen who has led the school since 2015. 

Oliver brings extensive experience in education, having served as head master of Lancing College since 2014. 

Admissions

Oundle School’s admissions process is designed to select students who will thrive in its academic and extracurricular environment.

For entry at 13+, candidates typically sit for the school’s entrance exams including tests in English, Mathematics and Science, followed by interviews.

For 16+, prospective students are assessed based on their GCSE results and personal achievements, with an interview also forming part of the process.

The school also considers references from current schools. Scholarships are available for academic, art, music, and sports excellence. 

Accessibility

Heathrow Airport: 1 hour 40 minutes

Location

Click for more information about the research process and expert insight behind the Spear’s Schools Index


Rank: Recommended

Recommended 2025, UK Senior Schools

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