Oakham School
Oakham, Rutland · LE15 6DT
Oakham is a major co-educational boarding and day school in rural Rutland, educating 973 pupils aged 11–18 across a distinctly structured house system. The school articulates a philosophy centred on a 'Connected Curriculum' that deliberately weaves academic, co-curricular and pastoral learning together, rather than treating them as separate domains. Known for breadth, opportunity and a culture that values both traditional academic rigour and dynamic enrichment, Oakham draws families seeking a full boarding experience or day education in a close-knit, rural setting.
- →Genuine 'pastoral learning' culture—not just duty of care, but deliberate character and resilience development woven into daily life
- →Exceptionally strong co-curricular offer (music, drama, sport, adventurous learning, DofE) with real depth and participation, not tokenistic
- →Unique house structure providing close pastoral oversight and a strong sense of belonging across the school
Who thrives here
Pupils who thrive in a structured boarding or full-participation day environment, with intellectual curiosity balanced by a desire for breadth beyond academics. Suits families valuing character development, outdoor learning and close pastoral relationships as much as exam results.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
Chapel Close
Oakham, Rutland
LE15 6DT
Nearest stations
Notable alumni
Jeremy Clarkson
Television presenter and journalist
Celia Imrie
Actress
David Miliband
Politician and international relations figure
Recent investment
Frequently asked questions
What are the fees at Oakham School?
Day fees at Oakham School are approximately £34,524 per year (2026/27). Boarding fees are higher.
How do you get into Oakham School?
Oakham School admits pupils at 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by Interview, Assessment. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
What are Oakham School's exam results?
At Oakham School, 25.8% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 46.5% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is Oakham School a boarding school?
Oakham School offers boarding as well as day places.
What is Oakham School's latest inspection rating?
ISI rated Oakham School “Excellent” (2019).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Exceptional pastoral care and genuine investment in each pupil's wellbeing and development, not just exam results
✓Outstanding breadth of opportunity (music, drama, sport, expeditions) with real depth and quality of provision
✓Strong sense of community and belonging; house system creates close relationships between staff and pupils
✓Beautiful rural location and boarding experience builds resilience and independence
✓Academic rigour balanced with encouragement of curiosity and intellectual play
Common concerns
!Rural location may feel isolating for some families and limits spontaneous external engagement
!Boarding culture strong; day pupils sometimes feel slightly peripheral to the main community
!Fees and travel logistics can be prohibitive for some UK families (as with all HMC day/boarding)
!Ofsted not yet inspected; some parents value external validation beyond school's own claims