School that fits around the child

AS headmaster of The Oratory Prep School, I see myself first and foremost as the head learner. I bring to this role headship experience from both the state-maintained and independent sectors, but it’s my daily interactions with children, staff and families that continue to teach me the most.

The Oratory Prep School is set within 65 acres of woodland — an extraordinary setting for childhood. Here, we believe in an education that nurtures children emotionally, socially and academically. Rooted in a tradition dating back to 1859, our school is guided by the virtues of curiosity, wisdom and kindness.

Education at The Oratory Prep School fits around the child, not the other way around. Our facilities are designed to inspire and support: Forest School, a 25m indoor swimming pool, a theatre, full-sized artificial grass and tennis courts. But what truly sets us apart is not the scale of our grounds or the breadth of our resources, it’s the quality and commitment of our staff.

Don’t just take my word for it — read our recent inspection report. As a prep school for ages two to 13, we offer children the chance to enjoy childhood for longer.

In a world shaped increasingly by technology, we use it wisely to enhance learning but we know that it will never replace human connections that are so essential to a child’s development.

When our pupils leave us at the end of Year 8, they move on to a wide range of leading senior schools including Eton, Radley, Wellington, Marlborough, Downe House and Bradfield to name a few.

But what matters most to me is that each child finds the right school for them. I warmly invite you to discover more about The Oratory Prep School and with our new Henley bus route starting this September, it’s now even easier to join our community.

Andrew De Silva