HISTORY:
d'Overbroeck's was founded in 1977 as a sixth form by Malcolm van Biervliet D'Overbroeck. He taught French and Spanish at the school for 30 years until 2007 when he retired. The college was first based at van Biervliet's house.d’Overbroeck’s takes day students from Years 7-11 (age 11-16) and international students from 13 years of age as either boarders or day students.d’Overbroeck’s International School is located at The Swan Building, in close proximity to Oxford city centre. Formerly home to the Sixth Form, the school has been recently refurbished and includes well-equipped classrooms, two science laboratories, a drama and music room, an art room, a library, extensive gardens and a student medical centre. Students have the option of living in one of the school's two International School boarding houses, St Philip’s and St Aldate’s.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR:
Much like their academic programme, their co-curricular programme is founded on the values of choice, engagement and enjoyment.With an extensive range of activities, clubs and societies, it’s important to them that our students can find something that suits them, whilst also being encouraged to ‘have a go’ no matter what their ability level. Some clubs run throughout the whole year, whilst others are termly. Students can choose to take part in whichever option they prefer, whether these be sport, creative or academic pursuits.Music and Drama are two of our busiest departments at d’Overbroeck’s. Whether students are natural performers or musicians, enjoy the energy backstage creating costumes or building sets, would like to take up or continue instrumental tuition, or play their instrument with like-minded people, there’s something for everyone.Taking the Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award at d’Overbroeck’s is a fantastic way for adventurous students to develop through activities and service in the community. Moreover, it is flexible in what students can choose for the volunteering, skills, and physical components, giving them the opportunity to express their individuality.
ENGLISH SUPPORT:
EAP provision is offered to students to gain confidence in their spoken and written English. Students leaving the Sixth Form go on to secure places at top universities including UCL, LSE and Kings College London as well as the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge.
SIZE:
There are almost 600 students in the whole school, with the Sixth Form being the largest part, at around 350 students. In the Sixth Form, around half the students are day, half are boarding and the UK: International student ratio is 60:40.
POST-16 QUALIFICATIONS:
The new Sixth Form building is located in a residential area of Oxford, Summertown, close to Parkway Station, which leads directly to London.d’Overbroeck’s Sixth Form offers 35 subjects at A level and gives students the flexibility to choose the combination of subjects that best fits their strengths, interests and future aspirations. d’Overbroeck’s also offers every student in the Sixth Form the opportunity to pursue an Extended Project (EPQ), in addition to studying for their three main A levels.
PRE-16 QUALIFICATIONS:
d’Overbroeck’s International School offers 4 courses: Pre-IGCSE (new course for entry in 2019), One-year IGCSE, Two-year IGCSE, and Study Abroad. The curriculum offered is broad and prepares students for entry into UK sixth forms, including d'Overbroeck's or other international schools. The international school typical class size is 10 students.The school has also introduced a new Pre-IGCSE course for students aged 13+. This provides an introduction into UK education and a preparation year before IGCSEs. It is also a valuable high school experience for those wanting to study in the UK to gain a global perspective before continuing studies in their own country.
ACCOMMODATION:
Boarding houses and host families are located in close proximity to the school.
The teaching building includes drama and art spaces as well as five new science labs and a large common room. Cohen Hall is used for dining as well as for events and performances. A recently built boarding house for Sixth Form students, Islip House, is directly across the road. The option of boarding with a Host Family is also available to students of all ages.
PASTORAL:
Whilst at d’Overbroeck’s, students have access to various support options to meet their needs. If a student becomes unwell, they are cared for by their School Nurse in their medical room and can receive treatment at their local doctors’ surgery. In any rare case of serious illness, Oxford has some of the best hospitals in the world. Positive mental health and maintaining a healthy wellbeing are key parts of their Personal Development (PD) curriculum. At the start of the year, they focus on helping students to adjust to school life and living in the UK and address topics such as dealing with culture shock, managing personal finances, and health and wellbeing. Students also have access to School Counsellors who are available for appointments to discuss any greater worries or concerns. Each of our boarding houses are managed by a Head of House. They are on hand to support students 24 hours a day and will make sure they are eating and sleeping well, getting regular exercise and enjoying their leisure time.