MixedIndependentBoarding

Dragon School

Oxford, Oxfordshire, South East · OX2 6SS

Founded in 1877, the Dragon School has grown into one of Oxford's best-known prep schools, taking boys and girls from ages 4 to 13 as both day pupils and boarders. With around 796 children on roll, it sits in the medium-size band and offers families the flexibility to choose between day attendance and full boarding. The Independent Schools Inspectorate rated the school 'excellent' across the board, including for pupils' personal development, and confirmed that all compliance requirements were met. The school is led by Head Emma Goldsmith.

796

Pupils

excellent

ISI

£33,390

Day fees / yr

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Overview & data

Gender: Mixed
Type: independent (fee-paying) school
Age range: 4-13
Pupils: 796
Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire, South East
Website: https://www.dragonschool.org/
Telephone: 01865 315400

Headteacher

Head Emma Goldsmith

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Teaching & academics

The 'excellent' ISI judgement points to a strong academic standard across the prep years, preparing children for senior school entry at 11 and 13. Around 9.67 per cent of pupils receive some form of SEN support, suggesting the school is set up to accommodate a range of learning needs alongside its mainstream provision.

Learning support & SEN

SEN support: 9.67%
EHC plans: 0.13%

Ethos & heritage

Founded: 1877
Boarding: Yes

Money matters

Day fees (per year): £18,930 - £33,390
Boarding fees (per year): £49,770

Inspection reports

ISI rating: excellent
ISI personal development: excellent
Last inspected: 14 October 2025

Read the full inspection report ↗

The last word

A historic Oxford prep with a top inspection grade and genuine choice between day and boarding. Day fees run from £18,930 to £33,390, with boarding reaching up to £49,770, so families should weigh the cost against the flexibility on offer.

The Passmate verdict