Oakham School: Oakham, Rutland, UK

At the Lower School all pupils study English, Mathematics, French, Science, History, Geography, Religious Education, Information and Communication Technology and a series of Creative Arts courses. Most pupils of this top UK boarding school also take Latin. In the second year, pupils experience half a term each of German and Spanish before opting for one of the languages in the summer term. Teaching is by forms in all subjects, except Mathematics and French where pupils are grouped by ability into sets. Although pupils of this boarding school in England take a full range of examinations in the summer term, there are no public exams, so we are able to tailor a curriculum that is not only stimulating but also flexible giving space for a wide range of learning experiences. About six hours’ prep is set each week and specific time is allocated, Monday to Saturday, for all subjects except PE and Creative Arts.

At the Middle School 13-15 years all pupils follow a broad and balanced curriculum right through to GCSE. There is no pressure on them to specialise early, but the options system does allow pupils to study the subjects that interest them. Most pupils of this private boarding school take a full range of GCSE examinations, comprising English Language and Literature, Maths, Co-ordinated Science (Physics, Chemistry and Biology), History, Geography, two foreign languages and a Creative Arts subject. The option system allows variations on this pattern, but the emphasis on breadth and balance remains. Pupils are divided into teaching groups called „sets”. Fifth formers are set work in all subjects; a total of around 12 hours a week. We encourage them to become increasingly responsible for organising their own work and to make full use of the Smallbone Library, which provides outstanding facilities for self-motivated study.

Fifth Form pupils of this great boarding school take mock GCSE examinations in the first week of the Spring Term. Most GCSE examinations take place in the summer term of the fifth form. We make pupils aware of their timetable in good time and encourage effective revision during the Easter holidays. Results are usually published on the Thursday of the third full week of August. The Examinations Officer distributes full information on how to collect results in the early part of the summer term.

Pupils at secondary boarding school ( Upper School 16+ ) choose between the International Baccalaureate and AS/A2 Levels Oakham offers a choice of either A Levels or the International Baccalaureate Diploma (the IB). As pupils approach the Sixth Form, we provide comprehensive guidance in the form of seminars and an „Upper School Guide” both to pupils and to parents to help with choices. Whichever route, IB or AS/ A2, is chosen, there are a wealth of curriculum enhancement opportunities. While progress in the Upper School may be measured primarily by results – and rightly so – we also place great importance on equipping every student with the ability to think independently, to entertain and explore new ideas, and to be confident in their own abilities. Alongside excellent examination results, this helps to create a sense of direction for young people as they enter the challenging worlds of higher education and careers.