The Oratory School
· RG8 0PJ
The Oratory is an independent Catholic boarding and day school near Henley-on-Thames serving ages 11–18 with a deliberately balanced ethos that emphasizes both academic excellence and character formation. The school's stated philosophy—'Be you. Become more'—signals a commitment to wholeness alongside qualification, with particular emphasis on groundedness, kindness and service. Rooted in Catholic tradition but welcoming to all denominations, it offers boarding and day flexibility and targets families seeking a rigorous yet pastoral independent education in the Berkshire commuter belt.
- →Strong Catholic ethos and explicit commitment to character formation alongside academics
- →Flexible boarding and day options with supportive pastoral environment
- →Location in affluent Henley area with access to London and reading catchment
Who thrives here
Boarders and day pupils seeking a balanced, values-led education with strong academics and robust pastoral care; families attracted to Catholic or faith-based schooling; pupils who benefit from structure and community-focused pastoral systems.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
Woodcote, Reading, South Oxfordshire
RG8 0PJ
Nearest stations
Frequently asked questions
What are the fees at The Oratory School?
Day fees at The Oratory School are approximately £28,500 per year (2024/25). Boarding fees are higher.
How do you get into The Oratory School?
The Oratory 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 The Oratory School's exam results?
At The Oratory School, 9.4% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 29.1% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is The Oratory School a boarding school?
The Oratory School offers boarding as well as day places.
What is The Oratory School's latest inspection rating?
ISI rated The Oratory School “Excellent” (2021).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Strong values-based education with emphasis on character and kindness
✓Supportive pastoral care and boarding environment
✓Catholic ethos and spiritual development clearly valued by families
Common concerns
!Not yet inspected by Ofsted, so external validation of standards pending