At Dragon School our distinctive approach encourages enquiry, confidence and enthusiasm in a vibrant and quintessentially English Prep school environment. Recognised as individuals, children are encouraged to try everything and express themselves. Highly qualified staff foster a culture of learning which promotes academic, sporting and creative excellence.

Intellectual and philosophical challenge underpins an expansive academic curriculum, a wonderful programme of sport and an extraordinarily creative programme of music, drama and art. Our superb facilities, first-class teaching and open space for both sport and play allow children to develop their unique gifts and talents. Weekends are now even more exciting thanks to the launch of Dragon QUEST – a Saturday morning enrichment programme. Pupils can choose deep dive sessions from a wide variety of options including Film making, cultural outings in Oxford and Paddle boarding on the beautiful River Cherwell which runs past the School’s playing fields.

Boarding remains at the very heart of the school with a flexible range of boarding options starting from age 8. There are ten Junior and Senior boarding houses each with its own unique character and run by dedicated Houseparents who create a real ‘home from home’ for the children. Boarders enjoy evening and weekend activities with their friends including external speaker events and a busy afternoon of sports fixtures on Saturdays. In addition to the exeat bus service, there is a new weekly Sunday evening Dragon bus service from London.

Our pupils win numerous scholarships and awards to leading senior schools and families benefit from the bespoke advice and guidance of the Future Schools department. Destination schools include Eton, Harrow, Cheltenham Ladies College, Headington, Dulwich College, Marlborough College, Radley, Rugby School, St Edward’s, Wellington College and Winchester.

Alumni, known as Old Dragons, go on to be successful in many fields – Sir John Betjeman, Emma Watson, Tim Henman, Dame Cressida Dick and Tom Hiddleston to name but a few.

Pastoral Care

We pride ourselves on providing a safe and happy environment in which to learn.  An informality and nurturing ethos build trust and children develop a sense of responsibility and respect for others and become well-rounded, confident, independent and motivated individuals. The Dragon recognises that, pastoral care is not merely a complementary practice. This care is inextricably linked with teaching and learning and the structural organisation of the school, promoting pupils’ personal and social development and embedding positive attitudes.