Admission

Entry Pathways at Oswestry School: A Guide to Academic Beginnings

Oswestry School prides itself on being a nurturing co-educational day and boarding institution nestled in the picturesque county of Shropshire, England. The school embodies a long-standing commitment to delivering a well-rounded education, emphasizing the importance of academic rigor alongside a vibrant co-curricular life. This comprehensive outlook informs the tailored entry requirements set for each educational phase, ensuring students embark on a journey well-suited to their age, abilities, and aspirations.

Age and Grade-Level Milestones

• Prep School Pathway (4-11 years): The educational voyage at Oswestry begins at Bellan House, catering specifically to the youngest learners, aged 4 to 11. This foundational phase prepares students for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
• Senior School Leap (11-16 years): Advancing to the Senior School signifies a pivotal shift, accommodating students from 11 (First Form) through to 16 years old (Fifth Form), heralding the next stage of educational growth.
• Sixth Form Ascent (16-18 years): The final rung, Sixth Form, welcomes students at 16, guiding them through to 18 years, focusing on A Level studies as a gateway to higher education and future career paths.

Academic Prerequisites and Examination Criteria

• Welcoming International Scholars: International students join the Oswestry community from age 11, undergoing Mathematics and English assessments to ensure compatibility with the school’s academic standards. English proficiency standards are set at CEFR Level B1 (for GCSE entry) and B2 (for Sixth Form), aligning with an IELTS score of 4.0 and 5.0, respectively.
• GCSE Entry Expectations: Prospective students should present a minimum of five GCSEs (or equivalent), with an accent on achieving grade 6 in subjects earmarked for A Level pursuit.
• A Level Academic Voyage: Tailoring their A Level curriculum, students are encouraged to select subjects that complement their academic strengths, with specific entry prerequisites varying by subject to underscore GCSE performance, especially in chosen A Level domains.

Beyond Academic Scores: Holistic Admissions

• The Interview Process: A dialogue with the Headmaster, either in person or digitally via Skype, forms a crucial component of Oswestry’s holistic admissions process, offering mutual insight.
• Life as a Boarder: For those opting for the boarding experience, Oswestry promises a supportive and enriching boarding life from the age of 10, underlining the school’s immersive educational ethos.
• Co-curricular Engagement: True to its philosophy, Oswestry School values active participation in a broad spectrum of co-curricular activities, viewing them as integral to the student’s holistic development and admissions considerations.

Conclusion: Crafting Future Pathways

Oswestry School stands as a beacon for students aged 4 to 18, seeking to blend academic excellence with a rich tapestry of co-curricular endeavors. The admission criteria reflect this blend, catering to various stages of a student’s growth and adapting to the needs of international members of its community. Through a combination of academic assessments, personalized interviews, and a keen eye on co-curricular capabilities, Oswestry School ensures that each student is well-placed to thrive, develop, and ultimately, succeed.