The Oratory School was inspected in January 2026. Three areas of the school’s provision were inspected: the quality of its Catholic life; its Religious Education, and its Collective Worship. The school was graded 'Outstanding' for its Catholic Life and Mission; 'Good' for its Religious Education and its Collective Worship; and 'Good' overall.

Highlights include:

• “The Oratory School is an inclusive and welcoming community which values and respects individuals, truly living out the charism of its founder, St John Henry Newman.”
• “The school’s charism, expressed in the motto ‘Cor ad cor loquitur’ (‘Heart speaks unto heart’), is lived out widely.”
• “The strength of all relationships between staff and students embodies the school’s motto.” 
• “Students and staff show generous commitment to charitable outreach and service within the wider community.”
• “Parents comment on the school’s ‘nurturing, family-like environment’.”
• “The school is an inclusive community; students show great respect for others and for themselves.” 
• “Staff value the mutual respect between staff and students of all faiths and world views.”
• “Attractive displays of students’ work promote the creative talents of individuals as part of the school’s charism.”
• “Staff report that they feel well-supported.”
• “There is frequent engagement with parents through newsletters, social media, and invitations to be involved in charitable fundraising, and parents respond generously, reflecting their engagement and understanding of the school’s work.”

Matthew Fogg, Head Master, says "We are delighted that the inspectors recognised the outstanding Catholic Life and Mission of the school and how this is reflected in the strong relationships, the lived charism of St John Henry Newman, and the culture of respect and service. It is also pleasing to see such positive comments about leadership, chaplaincy, prayer, and the quality of Religious Education. The inspectors commented “The Oratory School is an inclusive and welcoming community which values and respects individuals, truly living out the charism of its founder, St John Henry Newman”.

There are some helpful areas for further development and I will continue to work with my colleagues to enhance this fundamental aspect of our school's identity."

Read the full The Oratory School's Catholic Inspection Report here.