Support for Military Families at The Oratory Prep School
At The Oratory Prep School, we understand the unique demands that forces families face. We’re proud to offer a school experience that supports the well-being and continuity of education for your children, helping them feel settled and confident, regardless of where your next chapter may take you.
A Place to Belong
We know that life for military families often brings sudden changes and periods of transition. At The Oratory Prep School, we aim to make this as smooth as possible by offering a community that welcomes and supports pupils through every stage. Our small class sizes, attentive pastoral care and close-knit boarding house mean your child will quickly feel part of our school family.
Continuity of Education Allowance (CEA)
For families claiming the Continuity of Education Allowance (CEA), we offer a reduced parental contribution, ensuring that you only pay the minimum required by CEA guidelines. For a full boarding place, forces families currently contribute £1,318 per child each term and £1,115 for a weekly boarding place. This covers all meals and laundry. Most after school activities are free of charge. Weekend activities for forces boarders are provided free of charge.
For those opting for day places (Reception and above), we offer a 10% discount on fees.
Conveniently Located for Military Families
The Oratory Prep School is well placed for military families serving across the South East. Situated in South Oxfordshire, we are easily reached from a number of Army and RAF bases, with excellent road and rail connections making school drop-offs and weekend travel straightforward.
We are just:
- 20 minutes from Reading
- 20 minutes from Oxford
- Around an hour from London Paddington by rail
- Within easy reach of the M4, M40 and A34
Nearby military locations include:
- RAF Benson – 15 minutes
- RAF Brize Norton – 35 minutes
- Shrivenham (Defence Academy) – 40 minutes
- RAF High Wycombe (RAF High Wycombe Headquarters) – 35 minutes
- MOD Abbey Wood – approximately 1 hour 20 minutes
Whether your child is joining us as a day pupil or boarder, our location makes it easy for families to stay connected throughout the school year.
