Cothill House

Cothill is a small school, but a big family. Our scale allows us to ensure each boy is treated as an individual, nurtured and encouraged to find his strengths and develop his foundations. Whether as a boarder, a day boy or a combination of the two, boys are given the foundations to overcome the challenges they will encounter at the next stage of their education and beyond.

Cothill was first established in 1870 by C W Carles, a graduate from Lincoln College, Oxford, in the grounds of Darlaston Hall in Meriden, Warwickshire. In 1879, larger accommodation was needed so the school moved to the current site we know today. Cothill was originally the parsonage occupied by the first Vicar of Dry Sanford, the Rev H C Adams, who had founded Dry Sandford Village/Church School in 1870. C W Carles bought the property for £2,900. He expanded the school by building six dormitories, the dining hall and the big schoolroom. The annual fees were £100 (80 guineas for boys under 13), with a termly £1 charged for washing and £2 for Music. The boys started school when they were old enough to commence the Latin Grammar. In 1879 there were 29 boys in the school; by 1881 the number had risen to 40.

The dedicated staff instil a love of discovery and learning among the boys, both in the classroom and beyond. We see ourselves as the protectors of childhood while giving our boys the skills they need for a bright future

Cothill House is globally recognised as one of the UK’s leading prep schools set in wonderful grounds just a short drive from central Oxford. Our pupils enjoy inspirational teaching and an amazing range of opportunities outside the classroom – not to mention proven preparation for entry to some of the country’s top schools. They leave us as confident, happy young men who know and embrace the value of hard work, integrity, teamwork and decency – young men of whom we are always incredibly proud, and who we know will forge a place and make a difference in the world.

Our Values
Cothill House gives day and boarding boys an inspirational education and unrivalled opportunities in the heart of the Oxfordshire countryside - yet only a short drive from the centre of Oxford. Central to this are the Values that guide us through everything we do.