Headington Rye Oxford
Oxford, Oxfordshire · OX3 7TD
Headington Rye Oxford is an independent day and boarding school in central Oxford combining co-ed provision in the nursery and prep (ages 3–11) with girls-only senior and sixth form education (11–18). Known for a progressive, values-driven ethos emphasising curiosity, creativity, collaboration and courage, the school attracts families seeking a vibrant, cosmopolitan community with strong pastoral foundations and intellectual rigour. With 1,075 pupils, broad co-curricular choice (120+ clubs) and a track record of 84% first-choice university destinations, it positions itself as a modern, inclusive independent school with serious academic ambition.
- →All-through education from age 3 with seamless transition and strong pastoral continuity
- →Inclusive, cosmopolitan ethos explicitly welcoming children from diverse backgrounds and cultures, plus international boarding
- →Exceptional breadth: 30+ GCSEs, 120+ co-curricular clubs, and flexibility in pathway-building through sixth form
- →Co-ed prep followed by girls-only senior, allowing single-sex focus during adolescent years without early separation
Who thrives here
Intellectually curious, independent-minded girls who thrive in a girls-only environment from age 11 onwards, particularly those valuing breadth over early specialisation and families seeking day/boarding flexibility. Well-suited to internationally minded families and pupils seeking strong pastoral care alongside rigorous academics.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
Headington Road
Oxford, Oxfordshire
OX3 7TD
Nearest stations
Frequently asked questions
What are the fees at Headington Rye Oxford?
Day fees at Headington Rye Oxford are approximately £23,364 per year (2025/26). Boarding fees are higher.
How do you get into Headington Rye Oxford?
Headington Rye Oxford admits pupils at 3+, 4+, 7+, 8+, 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by 11+ Selective Examination. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
What are Headington Rye Oxford's exam results?
At Headington Rye Oxford, 47.1% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 72.7% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is Headington Rye Oxford a boarding school?
Headington Rye Oxford offers boarding as well as day places.
What is Headington Rye Oxford's latest inspection rating?
ISI rated Headington Rye Oxford “Excellent” (2023). This grading is no longer issued — both inspectorates have since changed how they report outcomes.
Further reading
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Strong pastoral care and safeguarding; pupils feel known and supported
✓Genuine inclusivity and celebration of diversity; welcoming culture for international families
✓Excellent breadth and flexibility, especially in sixth form; pupils encouraged to pursue individual interests
✓Vibrant co-curricular offer with genuine choice and pupil agency
✓Modern, forward-thinking ethos balancing rigour with wellbeing
Common concerns
!Not yet inspected by Ofsted; lack of independent inspection report may deter some families unfamiliar with the school
!Girls-only provision from age 11 onwards may not suit all families; less experience of mixed sixth forms
!Boarding fee premium may limit accessibility despite bursary schemes