The Oratory School
11+ Admissions Guide 2026

The Oratory School is an independent day and boarding school for pupils aged 11 to 19. Founded in 1859 as a boys' school, it has welcomed both male and female pupils since September 2020. It is a Roman Catholic school governed by the Oratory Schools Association, a registered charity, and admits pupils of all faiths and none. Boarding pupils are accommodated in five houses, all close to the main school buildings, with separate provision for younger and older pupils, and for female pupils. The school aims to develop the whole person — intellectually, morally, socially, spiritually, aesthetically and physically — working in partnership with parents. As a Catholic school, it seeks to nurture a sense of community and encourage personal faith, whilst preparing confident young people to succeed and contribute meaningfully to society. The school supports a broad range of needs and abilities. It has identified pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities, a number of whom receive additional specialist support, as well as pupils for whom English is an additional language. The school also recognises pupils with particular talents and adapts the curriculum accordingly.

First to fifth form day students: Must hand phones in first thing and get them back when they go home. No mobile phone should be out or used throughout school day. Teachers will confiscate phones from students using them during school day. Boarders: May have phones after activities each evening, after matches on Saturdays and after Mass on Sundays. Must hand in all devices at bedtime. Sixth form: Expected to manage their mobile phone usage during school day and ensure phones are turned off and out of sight during academic classes.