A Culture Shaped
by Our IB Ethos
At St Clare’s, Oxford, we believe the value of education extends beyond academic achievement; it is a powerful tool that shapes curious, open-minded, and compassionate global citizens. As an IB World School with nearly 50 years of expertise, our mission is to nurture both intellect and character so every student can thrive in an interconnected world.
We are committed to:
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Our Approach:
Why St Clare's?
1. Academic Excellence and Recognition |
We are a top UK IB school, with 90% of students scoring above the world average and we regularly have students achieving the maximum 45 points (top 1% globally). Our international reputation for excellence is built on high expectations, academic challenge, and personalised support. |
2. Nearly 50 Years of IB Expertise |
As the oldest IB World School in England, St Clare’s offers unmatched IB expertise. Our teachers have unrivalled experience and teach IB teachers, ensuring a high-quality, globally aligned learning experience. |
3. International and Inclusive |
Internationalism is a core part of our mission, reflected in our diverse student body of over 45 nationalities, and our IB curriculum. An inclusive culture of mutual respect, intercultural dialogue, and open-mindedness fosters globally minded, confident young people. |
4. Holistic Wellbeing |
Our students stand out as happy, fulfilled young people readying themselves for the world. We foster a safe and kind environment where every student feels supported, with strong relationships and a dedicated pastoral system, creating a sense of belonging rooted in mutual respect. |
5. Personalised Learning for Life |
With an average class size of just 9, every student receives individualised support. Our personal tutor system provides tailored academic and pastoral guidance, helping students grow in confidence and take ownership of their learning. |
6. Oxford: Academic Challenge |
Being located in the academic city of Oxford, gives students unique opportunities: to attend public university lectures, get involved in research projects, and learn from Oxford-affiliated faculty. Our university-level library (link to Campus and Facilities page under About Us), academic clubs, and global competitions stretch thinking far beyond the curriculum. |
7. Independence and Autonomy |
Students are empowered to manage their own time, balance commitments, and make meaningful decisions about their learning. This trust builds resilience, independence, and maturity, skills essential for life after St Clare’s. Our alumni feel well-prepared for university and beyond. |
8. Future Global Leaders |
Our Leadership Programme is integrated into student life, with students developing skills in decision-making, teamwork, ethical leadership, and initiative, to become future influential changemakers. |
9. Unmatched University Guidance |
Our University and Careers Counselling team provide individual support and a rigorous careers programme to help our students reach the best university, internship, or gap year experience for them. About 90% attend their first-choice university, including leading international institutions, and competitive courses around the world. |
10. Global Impact, Guided by Purpose |
Founded after World War II, St Clare’s is driven by our mission to “advance international education and understanding.” Students are encouraged to think critically, challenge ideas, collaborate across cultures, and engage with real-world issues – graduating ready to make a positive difference in the world. |
Start your journey
with the right programme
Find the right programme for you - and discover your potential at St Clare’s, Oxford. Whichever path you take, you’ll be supported to excel academically and develop confidently within a vibrant, international learning community.
You can take a virtual tour of our campus & facilities
Shaping lives for a lifetime
Our students consistently tell us that three key aspects of St Clare’s shape their lives long after they leave:
International Understanding
Life at St Clare’s transforms perspectives. Students develop confidence, broaden horizons, and graduate ready to thrive in an international future.
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ITALY, IB 2024
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Trust and Independence
We treat our students as young adults, trusted to make decisions, manage their time, and take ownership of their learning. Our college culture is based on carefully balancing bespoke pastoral and academic support alongside opportunities for independence. Alumni regularly highlight how well-prepared they felt, academically and personally, for the challenges of university and life after Oxford.
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ITALY, IB 2024
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Memorable Experiences
Students love their time at St Clare’s. With a strong sense of community, friendships across cultures, and unforgettable shared experiences, it’s no surprise that around 50% of students join us through personal recommendations from alumni.
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HONG KONG, IB 2024
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Our students. Their stories.
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“The college offer excellent preparation for the IB for students from predominantly affluent but forward-thinking international families. First-class teaching, supportive pastoral care, very high-calibre careers advice and the nurturing of independent learning create a unique offering for future global citizens.”
The Good Schools Guide is an independent organisation, and the UK’s number one school guide, trusted to provide unbiased and candid school reviews. Uniquely, each school is selected on merit alone and the Guide retains full editorial control. Their writers visit and interview the Principal and key staff, speak to pupils and parents, analyse academic performance and verify marketing messaging to provide a clear picture, so prospective parents can gain an impression that, perhaps, a website cannot fully offer.
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