Aiming higher, with heart: a new chapter at The Oratory Prep School

With a new Headmaster, a fresh vision and 65 acres to explore, The Oratory Prep School is looking ahead to an exciting new chapter – helping every child aim higher, discover their strengths and make the most of childhood.

Set in 65 acres of beautiful South Oxfordshire countryside, The Oratory Prep School is a co-educational day and boarding school for children aged 2 to 13, with plenty of space for children to learn, grow and enjoy their childhood.

This September marks an exciting new chapter for OPS as Will May joins as Headmaster. His vision is one of Ambition, with Heart: encouraging children to aim higher and make the most of every opportunity, while making sure they are known, supported and valued as individuals.

At OPS, being ambitious is not just about academic results. Of course, excellent teaching and high expectations matter, but so does giving children the confidence to have a go, discover what they enjoy and find out what they are capable of. Success will look different for every child and the aim is to help each one become the best version of themselves.

The size and setting of the school play an important part in this. A day at OPS could include lessons in the classroom, swimming in the 25-metre indoor pool, rehearsing in the theatre, creating in the Art Department, playing sport or heading into Forest School, all within the school’s extensive grounds.

There is a lot for children to get involved in and plenty of opportunities to discover something they love. Sport, music, drama and art are all a big part of school life, alongside a broad academic curriculum. Children are encouraged to try new things, challenge themselves and understand that they will not always get everything right first time.

Just as importantly, OPS is a school where children are genuinely known. Teachers understand their pupils: what motivates them, where their strengths lie and when they might need a little more support or encouragement. That individual approach was recognised by the Independent Schools Inspectorate, which awarded OPS a Significant Strength for the way leaders prioritise pupils’ academic and personal growth, creating a culture where children have faith in themselves.

There is plenty to look forward to at OPS. With a new Headmaster, growing demand for places and clear ambitions for the future, the school is continuing to develop while holding on to the things that families value most.

Community is a big part of that. Parents are encouraged to be involved in school life and there is a real sense that families are part of OPS too. Wraparound care, school bus routes and day, weekly and flexi-boarding options also help to make school life work for busy families.

Ultimately, OPS wants children to leave ready for whatever comes next: confident in themselves, excited by what they can achieve and willing to aim higher.

With the Open Day coming up on Friday 2nd October 2026, families have the opportunity to see OPS in action, meet Headmaster Will May and discover what makes the school such a special place for children to learn, grow and thrive.

In partnership with The Oratory Prep School

The Oratory Prep School is a co-educational day and boarding school for children aged 2 to 13, set in 65 acres of South Oxfordshire countryside. With a strong focus on ambition, character and individual growth, OPS gives every child the confidence to thrive.

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