What is the history of Oundle School?

Oundle was founded in 1556 by Sir William Laxton, then Lord Mayor of London and Master of the Worshipful Company of Grocers. Under the terms of Sir William Laxton’s will, the Worshipful Company of Grocers (the Grocers’ Company) has been supporting the School since its foundation.

Oundle has a longstanding reputation for academic excellence and a history of embracing innovation and change. Under the leadership of its most famous Headmaster, F.W. Sanderson in the early 20th century, the School expanded significantly, becoming a leader in science and engineering education - a legacy that endures today.

We are now one of the country’s largest and most respected co-educational boarding and day schools, with 1,140 pupils, including 820 boarders. Our boarding community draws from every corner of the UK, representing more than 120 different feeder schools. Around 20% of pupils come from overseas, representing over 30 countries and bringing with them a genuinely global outlook.

Find our more about our history here.