Oundle Boarding Houses

[Seagull22]

Hi. First ever Mumsnet post as I’m keen to find out from any parents with boys at Oundle, particularly any info about Crosby House. We were very late applying and toured a Field House but not Crosby. My son has been allocated a place there. Very grateful for any insight about the feel/culture/ethos of this house and House Master.

Hi Seagull22, my DS is in a similar situation. He has been allocated a place at Crosby house for next year. Really keen to find out what your experience has been so far with Oundle in general and Crosby house. Also have you had any concerns with pastoral care? I have seen previous threads where concerns were raised. Although looking at the date of your post it may be too early to tell, but I would really appreciate any insights you may have based on your experience.

I’ve asked my son (who is there) and he struggles to pick a “best” or “worst” house. Every year group seems to have a mixture of types of boys - although it’s the day house Laxton that tends to win the inter house sports events! (But then it’s is one massive house rather than the smaller 7 boys boarding houses).
We have definitely chosen the right school for my son and he thrives in the atmosphere there. It’s hard work so not for shirkers or those who prefer a wilder side of life, I would say. Pastorally, everything is just how it should be for us. Great housemaster and a tutor who takes an interest in my ds and makes sure he stays focussed and getting the most out of school life. Probably the biggest key to having the best time is enjoying full boarding and being independent as a result of parents not being there to find your stuff and chivvy things along. The boys have to sort themselves out and generally “be on it” at all times.

leftandaright, many thanks for your feedback and insight. Very much appreciated.
How often does your ds meet with his tutor? Does the HM provide feedback to you (parents), whether good or bad, regularly?

The tutors are attached to Houses so all their tutees are in one House. They have meals there and are around lots. So yes they see their boys frequently. Plus there are set tutor/tutee meetings. They deal with all day to day matters. The Housemaster is more from a pastoral only viewpoint and the amount of contact with parents depends on how much the boy needs it and whether there is anything of note to discuss with parents. Plus they do general email House updates to all parents. They are on “loco parentis” too don’t forget / so you’re not going to get a blow by blow account of what’s happening - but anything they need to discuss they are quick to speak to you. We have had a great experience so far. My son couldn’t be happier and thriving anymore than he is. He is the “ideal” Oundle full boarding candidate though; diligent, independent and with interests he spends time doing in free time.

Thanks again leftandaright. This is very helpful.