Frequently Asked Questions

Do children need to speak English to be admitted to school?
Whilst knowledge of English is a great advantage, children applying for places in Nursery, Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 (2-6 years old) do not have to have previous knowledge of English. Children from Year 3 onwards (7 years) sit a series of entrance tests to determine if they would be able to follow the lessons comfortably or not. Applicants also do a “taster day” prior to being admitted to school. Further information and details are available via Admissions or by contacting the office.

Are all the lessons in English?
All the teaching is in English and follows the British curriculum. The Spanish curriculum is taught in Spanish and those who need Spanish as an additional Language support will have specific support classes.

When does my child learn another language?
From Year 5 (9/10years) children start to learn German and French. In Year 7 they select one of the two and study this until at least Year 11 when they sit a GCSE in French or German.

Would my child be able to continue his/her further education in Britain, Spain, Europe or the United States?
Yes, Oakley College is recognised by both the British and Spanish authorities as a formal teaching centre. Students can apply for university places in Britain, Spain, United States as well as other university institutions around the world. Please see the webpage Sixth Form for more information on university options.

How do I apply for a place for my child?
Complete the forms from Admissions, arrange a visit to see the school and meet the Director. Complete the testing process, (from Year 3 onwards) and on successful completion of tests you can formalise registration by completing the relevant paperwork.

Is there a school uniform?
Yes, children from 2yrs to 6yrs (Early Years to KS1) wear the school tracksuits only. From Year 3 children wear a uniform. Sixth form (Year 12/13) 16-18 year olds do not wear a school uniform. Details can be found on the web page.

Is there school transport?
Yes, we have various bus routes with Moreno bus. More details are on the website.

Is there a lunch service?
Yes, the lunch menu is prepared by a dietician and prepared freshly daily, using local produce, by our qualified and award winning chefs. We cater for special diets and there is a vegetarian menu.

Are there after school activities?
Yes, there are many after school activities offered. More details are on the webpage.

Is there a facility for early morning drop offs and late collection?
Yes, school has an early morning drop off from 7.30 to 8.00 and an afterschool service to 17.15.

What are the school hours?
Early Years (2-4yrs) 8.45 to 15.30.
KS1 (5-7yrs) 8.45 to 15.45.
KS2 (8-11yrs) 8.45 to 15.45.
KS3/4/5 (11yrs to 18yrs) 8.35 to 15.45.

What communication is there between school and home?
We encourage fluid communication within the school community. There are bi monthly newsletters and information updates on the webpage. All children have a message book /diary for communication with home. There are 3 reports evenings per year and parents can arrange meetings with the child’s teacher whenever necessary. As many of the children are collected by parents there is also a daily opportunity to talk with teachers when necessary.

What support is there for children?
Our school is a happy school. We value the welcome and inclusiveness our children and staff provide to other children and parents.We have specific support structures for new students. Our staff and school student counsellor/physiologist work together to ensure that children are happy, learning and thriving. There is also a mentor system in both Primary and Secondary where older students act as mentors for younger students guiding and advising them.