Sibford School Review 2026: Quaker Co-educational Day & Boarding

Set within 50 acres of rolling Oxfordshire countryside, Sibford School offers a distinct alternative to the high-pressure academic hothouses often associated with the independent sector. Founded in 1842, it remains one of only seven Quaker schools in England. This heritage shapes a philosophy where kindness, integrity, and the search for individual talent take precedence over league table positioning. It is a place where silence is valued as much as debate, and where the advice to "live adventurously" drives the curriculum.

The drive through the village of Sibford Ferris reveals a campus that feels open and breathable. Stone buildings blend with modern additions, housing a community that prides itself on knowing every student. Rebecca Evans, appointed Head in 2023, leads with a vision that respects the school's deep-rooted Quaker principles while ensuring it remains relevant for modern families.

The atmosphere is noticeably calmer than many schools. Morning Meeting, a time for silent reflection, replaces some traditional assemblies. This is not a religious imposition but a pause in a busy week, allowing students of all faiths and none to centre themselves. Relationships between staff and students are built on mutual respect rather than rigid hierarchy, creating a relaxed but purposeful environment.

Sibford is academically inclusive and does not select purely on raw ability. Consequently, results reflect a broad range of starting points rather than a narrow elite.

In the most recent A-level examinations, the school achieved an England Rank of 1212 (FindMySchool ranking). This performance places it in the 'national typical' band, reflecting solid performance in line with the middle 35% of schools in England (25th to 60th percentile). The percentage of grades at A*-B stood at 49%, indicating that nearly half of all papers were awarded top grades.

At GCSE, the school ranks 2724th in England. This also sits within the national typical band. While not topping local league tables, the school focuses heavily on value-added, ensuring students often exceed the grades predicted from their baseline assessments.

The curriculum is broad, catering to academics, creatives, and those with practical talents. Class sizes are small, typically ranging from 12 to 18, allowing for individual attention. The Support for Learning (SfL) department is a recognised strength, providing specialist help for students with dyslexia and other learning needs within the mainstream setting.

Teaching is structured but flexible. In the Junior School, the focus is on outdoor learning and curiosity. By the time students reach Sixth Form, the approach shifts to seminar-style learning. The school offers BTECs alongside A-levels, particularly in subjects like Sport and Countryside Management, acknowledging that intelligence comes in many forms.

Leavers progress to a diverse range of destinations, reflecting the school's emphasis on finding the right individual path. In the 2024 reported cohort of 18 students, the Department for Education data records that 17% moved directly to university, while 44% entered employment. It is important to note that this specific dataset captures a small cohort and may reflect a high number of gap years or creative foundation courses common among Sibford students.

Qualitatively, students regularly secure places at creative institutions and traditional universities. The Oxbridge pipeline is present for the most academic; in the most recent cycle, one student secured a place at Cambridge.

Sibford is non-selective in the traditional sense, looking for potential and character rather than just high test scores. Entry points are typically at Reception, Year 7, Year 9, and Year 12.

The process begins with a visit, followed by a taster day where the prospective student shadows a current pupil. For Senior School entry, applicants sit an assessment to determine setting and support needs, but this is not a pass/fail entrance exam. The school seeks families who align with its ethos of holistic development.

Pastoral care is the backbone of Sibford, deeply informed by Quaker values of equality and peace. The House system provides a family structure within the school, but it is the tutor groups that offer daily touchpoints.

The school is well-regarded for supporting students who may have found larger, more aggressive environments difficult. The focus on mental health is proactive, with 'wellbeing' integrated into the timetable. Boarding houses are homely, led by House parents who live on-site, creating a supportive community for the mix of full, weekly, and flexi-boarders.

The call to "live adventurously" is taken literally. The 50-acre campus includes a climbing wall, a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, and extensive sports pitches. Use of these facilities is high.

Creative arts are a major pillar. The art studios are rarely empty, and the music department hosts regular concerts ranging from classical ensembles to rock bands. Drama productions are inclusive, often involving large casts.

Horticulture and outdoor education are central to school life, linking back to the Quaker stewardship of the earth. Students can be found tending the school gardens or managing the on-site beehives. The school also runs a successful equestrian programme.

Fees & Financial Aid

For the 2024/2025 academic year, senior day fees range from £7,769 to £7,923 per term (£23,307 to £23,769 per year). Full boarding fees are £15,100 to £15,403 per term (£45,300 to £46,209 per year). Junior School fees are lower, starting at £4,936 per term for Reception to Year 2.

Bursaries are available but limited. The deadline for bursary applications for September 2026 entry is typically in January 2026; families should contact the school well in advance as funds are allocated early. Scholarships are awarded for academic excellence, art, drama, music, and sport, offering a reduction in fees and a structured programme of development.

The school day runs from 8:40am to 4:00pm, with buses serving Banbury, Stratford-upon-Avon, and Chipping Norton. Wraparound care is available for Junior School pupils. Boarding is flexible, with options for occasional stays to support busy family schedules.

Fees are significant. While competitive for the boarding sector, they remain a major investment. Families should review the fees and financial aid section carefully.

Not an academic hothouse. Families seeking a pressure-cooker environment focused solely on A* statistics may find the pace here too gentle. The focus is on the whole child.

Rural location. The countryside setting is idyllic but isolated. Students rely on school transport or parents for travel, as there is no immediate train station in the village.

Sibford School offers a humane, grounded education that values kindness as much as algebra. It provides a sanctuary for students to grow at their own pace, supported by a genuine community ethos. Best suited to families who want a supportive, non-selective environment where their child's character is nurtured alongside their qualifications. The main challenge is ensuring the relaxed pace matches your academic ambition.