Education & Training
Discover news and stories from across Oxford and Oxfordshire’s diverse education and skills landscape — from world-renowned institutions and leading state and independent schools to forward-thinking professional training providers and specialist skills academies
-
Aureus School shines with magical production of Aladdin the Musical Jr.
Aureus School students delivered a dazzling performance of Aladdin the Musical Jr., combining energetic choreography, strong vocals and months of preparation. With more than 700 people attending across four shows, the production showcased growing talent both on stage and behind the scenes.
-
Oxford University part of NatWest’s new partnership drive to boost UK innovation
NatWest has partnered with four UK universities, expanding its Accelerator network with new hubs and strengthened support for innovation-led businesses. The bank has exceeded its 2025 growth target as new data shows exceptional turnover and survival rates among participating companies.
-
University of Oxford OpenSAFELY team awarded Queen Elizabeth prize
Oxford’s OpenSAFELY platform has been awarded a Queen Elizabeth Prize for Higher and Further Education, celebrating its pioneering approach to NHS data access and privacy-preserving research with global impact.
-
Monkey Music to launch new early childhood classes for Banbury families
Monkey Music is bringing its award-winning early childhood classes to Banbury, offering free trials from January 2026. Designed for babies and toddlers, the sessions support development, connection and community.
-
Canada’s former deputy PM Chrystia Freeland named next Warden & CEO of Rhodes Trust
Chrystia Freeland, former Canadian Deputy Prime Minister and Rhodes Scholar, has been appointed the next Warden and CEO of the Rhodes Trust. She will begin the role on 01 July 2026.
-
Inspectors confirm effective progress in Oxfordshire’s SEND services
Ofsted and the CQC have praised Oxfordshire’s progress in improving SEND services, highlighting stronger leadership, better communication and improved support for children and families. Inspectors said effective action has been taken but noted continued work is needed to maintain improvements.
-
Primary school application process opens in Oxfordshire
Parents of children born between September 2021 and August 2022 can now apply for primary school places in Oxfordshire for September 2026. Officials urge families to list four schools and apply before the 15 January deadline.
-
Oxfordshire rugby coach nominated for national award
Oxford’s Darren Rea has been shortlisted for the 2025 UK Coaching Inclusive Coach of the Year Award for creating transformative SEND rugby opportunities across Oxfordshire, now supporting more than 100 children each week.
-
Taylor Wimpey sponsors Didcot Primary Academy’s Railway Centre trip
Taylor Wimpey has funded Didcot Primary Academy’s Year 2 trip to Didcot Railway Centre, giving pupils the chance to explore GWR history, ride a steam train and take part in hands-on workshops celebrating the town’s rich railway heritage.
-
Aureus School marks culture week with colourful celebration of diversity
Aureus School in Didcot celebrated its second Culture Week with food, music, and traditions from around the world. Students wore traditional dress and football shirts, took part in creative projects, and celebrated the diversity that makes their school community so special.
-
Oxford University Press launches AI and Education Hub as pupils struggle to spot AI misinformation
Less than half of UK pupils can identify accurate AI content, with many wanting clearer guidance from teachers, according to new Oxford University Press research. In response, OUP has launched an AI and Education Hub to support schools in developing AI literacy.
-
Curiosity Cube brings hands-on science to Oxford to inspire the next generation of scientists
Greyfriars Oxford Catholic School welcomed Merck’s Curiosity Cube — a travelling mobile lab — for a day of hands-on science, introducing students to real-world experiments in artificial intelligence and inspiring curiosity in the next generation of scientists.
-
St Edward’s School announces plans for new sports centre open to community
St Edward’s School has revealed plans for a new sports centre and outdoor pitches in Oxford, to be shared with local schools and charities. The scheme includes a rowing tank, cricket field, amphitheatre, and athletics track, with work starting in 2026.
-
Merck’s Curiosity Cube brings hands-on AI science to Greyfriars Oxford Catholic School
Oxford pupils will explore AI when Merck’s Curiosity Cube visits Greyfriars Catholic School this September. The interactive mobile lab offers hands-on experiments to spark curiosity in STEM and encourage the next generation of scientists.
-
Kings Education announces the launch of Kings Oxford School of Sciences
Kings Oxford will relaunch as the Kings Oxford School of Sciences in 2026. Timed with the college’s 40th anniversary, the new school will provide science-focused A-levels, degree pathways, and a programme to prepare students for top universities worldwide.
-
GCSE students offered guidance in Oxfordshire County Council after receiving results
Your GCSEs are just the beginning. Discover where to find guidance on college, training, and career options across Oxfordshire.