SIBFORD IS A CO-EDUCATIONAL INDEPENDENT SCHOOL IN OXFORDSHIRE, UK, FOR PUPILS AGED 3–18.
We warmly welcome International boarders from Year 6 to Year 12, offering flexible courses including short-term stays, one term, or a full academic year.
Central to our ethos is ensuring that every child is known and valued, and this underpins the strong pastoral support and rich cultural experiences we offer to help International students become confident during their UK school life.
Sibford
BOARDING AT SIBFORD
From the moment they arrive, boarders become part of a warm, inclusive community shaped by our Quaker values of kindness, respect and care.
Boarding at Sibford is about more than where students live — it is about how they grow. With strong pastoral support and dedicated House Parents living on site, students are nurtured to develop independence, confidence and resilience.
Alongside academic guidance and high expectations, boarding at Sibford helps young people prepare for life beyond school, equipping them with the skills, character and compassion to take their place in the world with confidence.
SIBFORD AT A GLANCE
GCSE and A Level pathways delivered to high academic standards
Boarding houses are nearby, on campus, so no travelling off site
EAL lessons supporting a range of EAL qualifications
Students make excellent progress; BTEC outcomes are ranked within the top 5% nationally
Boarders and day students fully integrated, sharing activities throughout the week
Regular contact with House Parents
‘Boarders feel safe and are confident that there is a trusted adult they can speak to, if they have any concerns.’ ISI, 2024
Specialist art offer in pottery, textile screen printing and traditional drawing and painting
14 different sports including rugby, cricket, football, netball and badminton
Careers and university guidance tailored to each student
A safe, secure campus set within 50 acres of countryside
Lessons in 14 different musical instruments
Dedicated horticulture area for hands-on, outdoor learning
Fast, easy access to Heathrow, Gatwick and Birmingham airports
Just 20 minutes to Oxford and 55 minutes to London by train
A rich programme of evening and weekend activities and trips
FINDING YOUR PLACE AT SIBFORD
Sibford welcomes pupils aged 3–18, including International students joining as boarders from Year 6 to Year 12.
ACADEMIC PATHWAYS AT SIBFORD
Sibford offers a broad and flexible curriculum designed to support different strengths, interests and future ambitions. International students follow pathways carefully matched to their academic background and level of English, with personalised support throughout.
We offer a flexible range of boarding options to suit different educational journeys and family needs. These include full boarding for students completing a British education, one-term or one-year placements for overseas students, and short-term immersion programmes lasting 2–4 weeks.
Each student is considered individually to ensure the right balance of academic challenge, pastoral care and support for a successful experience at Sibford.
INTEGRATED BRITISH CURRICULUM FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS FROM AGE 10.
International pupils may join us from age 10, entering a broad lower secondary programme within our integrated British curriculum, with EAL support, before progressing to established GCSE and A Level pathways. Our academic provision offers a clear, supportive route to leading universities in the UK and worldwide.
GCSE (YEARS 10–11)
Students in the GCSE years follow a balanced programme of academic subjects alongside creative and practical options. Small class sizes allow teachers to support each student closely, helping them build strong foundations for future study. For International students, English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is available alongside GCSE courses to ensure confidence in both academic and everyday English.
SIXTH FORM (YEARS 12–13)
Students choose from A Levels and BTEC qualifications, developing independence and preparing for university and future careers, with EAL and IELTS support where required.
COURSES ON OFFER
Sibford offers a range of academic and language courses designed to support International students at different stages of their education and English language development.
INTENSIVE ENGLISH
For: students needing to strengthen their English before joining Year 10 (pre-GCSE) or Sixth Form (pre-A Level).
This is an opportunity for them to enhance their grammar and vocabulary while developing essential reading, writing, speaking and listening skills for studying and living here in the UK.
• Additional subjects include Maths, with possible GCSE entry depending on ability
Progression: GCSE with IGCSE in ESL or Sixth Form with A Levels/BTECs plus IELTS preparation
GCSE/A
LEVELS WITH SUPPORT
For: students ready to follow the British curriculum who want to develop language skills.
An opportunity for students to expand their vocabulary and grammar understanding by taking part in activities focused on communication. In Year 11, they can take the IGCSE in English as a Second Language.
Details:
• For Years 7-11
• Start date: September
Progression: GCSEs with IGCSE in ESL or Sixth Form for A Levels/BTECs with IELTS preparation
IELTS PREPARATION
For: Sixth Form students on A Level or BTEC courses.
We equip them with the language skills and techniques needed to achieve strong results in the International English Language Testing System – essential for university applications.
Details:
• Two-year course with sufficient practice time before A Level examinations
• Designed for Years 12-13 (Sixth Form)
• Start date: September
Progression: University
SHORT STAY AT SIBFORD
International students in Years 6–10 and Year 12 may join Sibford for one year, one term or for a short-term stay of 2–4 weeks at various points throughout the year. This programme offers an ideal introduction to British education and boarding school life, allowing students to experience Sibford’s academic, pastoral and community ethos in a shorter timeframe.
Students follow elements of the British curriculum while fully immersing themselves in life at Sibford.
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
• A warm induction to our campus, facilities and community
• Cultural trips and activities shared with boarders
• Comfortable boarding accommodation and all meals
• A personalised progress report at the end of the programme
• EAL support if appropriate
Coming to stay at Sibford has been an incredible experience. The studying was fun and we had fantastic outings.
Living with people my age from different countries was amazing. “ “
PASTORAL CARE AND SUPPORT
Pastoral care sits at the heart of life at Sibford. Our boarding environment responds sensitively to individual needs, with considered pastoral support rooted in our Quaker ethos of kindness, respect and community. House Parents and boarding staff are always available, keeping a watchful eye to ensure every student feels comfortable, supported and truly part of our school family.
We understand that living away from home is a significant transition. Like parents, we stay closely informed about each student’s academic progress and wellbeing, while providing a secure, calm space away from classroom pressures. This careful balance allows students to feel safe, valued and confident as they grow in independence.
Boarders feel safe and are confident that there is a trusted adult they can speak to if they have any concerns. ISI, 2024 “ “
HOLISTIC EDUCATION
At Sibford, learning and personal development extend well beyond the classroom. Students benefit from a rich programme of activities that includes both timetabled co-curricular opportunities during the school day.
HORIZON – CO-CURRICULAR AND ENRICHMENT
Horizon is Sibford’s unique co-curricular programme and an integral part of the school timetable. It allows every pupil to explore new interests, develop confidence and build essential life skills. Activities reflect pupil voice and staff expertise, creating a dynamic programme that evolves each year.
Students may take part in activities such as pottery, drama, Amnesty International, e-sports and community service, alongside many other options. Pupils work towards the Horizon Honours Award, which recognises commitment, achievement and how well students demonstrate Sibford’s core values of Endeavour, Respect, Community and Kindness.
ACTIVITIES AND TRIPS
Boarding life at Sibford offers a lively and balanced programme outside the school day. Weekday evenings combine supervised homework with a varied programme of activities chosen by our boarders.
EVENING ACTIVITIES
Typical weekday activities include Boarders’ Bake Off, multi-sports, Reading Club or prep sessions, and creative options such as Design Technology and jewellery making. These activities allow students to relax, develop new skills and spend time together after the school day.
WEEKENDS
Weekends at Sibford offer International students the perfect blend of cultural discovery, personal adventure and time to relax. Each weekend is designed to help students experience life in the UK beyond the classroom, build friendships and feel truly at home.
ACTION-PACKED SATURDAYS
Saturdays are lively, energetic and full of opportunities to explore British culture firsthand. Our programme is pupil-voice led, ensuring students help shape the activities they want to experience. Each week brings something new – whether it’s a cultural visit, city trip, or a thrilling adventure.
Students enjoy regular excursions to major UK destinations such as Oxford, London, Birmingham, Cheltenham and Stratford-upon-Avon, where they can discover historic landmarks, world-famous universities, theatres, museums, shops and restaurants. Adventure and team-building activities are also a popular part of Saturdays, with options such as climbing, outdoor challenges, adventure parks, golf and collaborative group experiences that strengthen friendships across the boarding community.
Sporting experiences are another highlight, giving students the chance to immerse themselves in British sporting culture by attending football, rugby and ice hockey matches. Evening socials, meals out, cinema trips and bowling add fun and variety to busy Saturdays.
PEACEFUL, RECHARGING AND REFLECTIVE SUNDAYS
Sundays offer a calmer pace – an important chance for students to look after their wellbeing, rest and prepare for the week ahead. Activities on campus are relaxed and social, giving students time to unwind while still staying engaged and connected.
Typical Sunday options include creative workshops, inhouse sports, cooking sessions, nature walks, wellbeing activities and shared time in the boarding houses. This balance between adventure and relaxation helps students feel refreshed, grounded and ready for the week of learning.
CREATIVE ARTS
Our purpose-built Art School is a vibrant hub of creativity, housing studios for painting, textiles, ceramics and sculpture.
Whether experimenting with colour or shaping clay, pupils are encouraged to explore a range of materials and techniques. Work is regularly celebrated in our on-site gallery, giving students the experience of exhibiting in a professional space.
In Design & Technology, ideas are brought to life through a fully equipped suite that supports work in wood, metal and plastics. Our Food and Nutrition facilities also inspire creativity – with eight self-contained kitchens and a live demonstration space, pupils learn the art of cooking in a space that mirrors a professional environment.
SPORT
Encouraging Every Student to Thrive
At Sibford, sport is inclusive and accessible to all. Whether students are discovering a new activity or developing existing strengths, our approach encourages enjoyment, confidence and lifelong wellbeing. Sport plays an important role in boarding life, helping students stay active, build friendships and develop resilience.
OUR SPORTING APPROACH
Our philosophy is built around the Three Ps: Participation, Progression and Performance. Students are encouraged to take part, improve at their own pace and perform to the best of their ability. This balanced approach ensures sport remains positive, motivating and rewarding for every student.
FACILITIES
Set within our 50-acre countryside campus, students benefit from excellent facilities, including:
Students enjoy two PE lessons per week, with activities including:
• football
• basketball
• badminton
• tennis
• swimming
• table tennis
Weekly games afternoons focus on team sports and fixtures, helping students develop teamwork and school spirit. Swimming and cross-country run throughout the year, and from Year 9 onwards, students can choose from a wider range of options.
SPORTS SCHOLARSHIPS
Students entering Years 7, 9 and 12 may apply for a Sports Scholarship. Scholars demonstrate commitment, leadership potential and a positive attitude, acting as role models within the school community.
WHERE DO STUDENTS LIVE?
Our two boarding houses sit within Sibford’s 50-acre countryside campus, providing a safe, peaceful environment and a true sense of home.
PENN HOUSE
Our boys’ boarding house for Years 6–13. It has a homely dining area, a games room with pool table and consoles, a cinema room, and a mix of shared bedrooms with space for private study.
FIELDING HOUSE
Our girls’ boarding house for Years 6–13. It offers comfortable twin bedrooms, welcoming common areas with sofas, a TV room, pool table, dedicated study spaces, and a well-equipped kitchen where students can prepare snacks under supervision.
OUR BOARDING TEAM
Our boarding team is made up of House Parents, Assistant House Parents and Graduate Assistants, all of whom play an active role in daily boarding life. Academic staff also spend time in the Houses each day, allowing them to build strong relationships with boarders, offer additional academic support and take part in activities.
The Head and Deputy Head live on site and regularly spend time with boarders, reinforcing the close-knit and supportive nature of our community.
Victoria Hall Head of Boarding
“I have over 25 years’ experience in education and pastoral leadership. I am committed to creating a warm, inclusive boarding community built on respect and shared responsibility, where diversity is valued and pupils are supported to thrive academically and personally.”
Sibford School instantly struck me with its warmth, friendliness and genuine care for every student’s wellbeing. “ “
Luke Cannon Assistant Head of Boarding
“I joined Sibford in 2025 as Assistant Head of Boarding. Before joining Sibford, I spent six years as a Housemaster. I am passionate about creating vibrant boarding experiences that support student wellbeing, encourage adventure and promote personal growth.”
BOARDERS’ DAILY ROUTINE
BOARDERS’ VOICES
Sibford has been my whole childhood and teenage life. I’ll take away so many good memories from this school. A memory I treasure is celebrating boarders’ birthdays and eating chocolate cake with them – it really helped me settle into school life.
I will certainly miss everything about Sibford; the culture, the school, my friends.
Keishi, Year 13
I have found Sibford to be a really nice place. The students and teachers are friendly too. My tutor, Sam, helped me settle in well, and Stephen, the Head of Key Stage 3, was also very kind and supportive. Sam encouraged me to take part in school sport, and Stephen helped me understand and develop in rugby, which gave me the confidence to play.
Jo, in the EAL Department, has helped me improve my English speaking and writing. RPM, a student in my tutor group, was my buddy when I first arrived. He waited for me at the end of lessons and showed me around the school. I felt comfortable joining Sibford because I knew I had support in place to help me navigate life at the school.
Oliver, Year 9
ADMISSIONS
International students interested in joining Sibford are asked to complete an English language assessment and are invited to meet online with Rebecca Evans, Head, along with a member of our boarding team. This meeting is an opportunity for students and families to learn more about life at Sibford, ask questions and understand how we support each student’s academic and personal development.
Applications to Sibford are made by completing our online application form and paying a non-refundable registration fee. Once an application has been submitted, students are invited to take part in a friendly online conversation with a member of our EAL Department, designed to help us understand their English level and to explain how our language support works in practice.
Following this process, our Admissions Registrar will be in contact to confirm whether a place has been offered and to guide families through the next steps, ensuring a smooth and supportive admissions journey.
