Welcome from the Headmaster
All parents want the best for their children. At this time, in particular, there is a greater need to have children supported and encouraged so they may develop into the best versions of themselves. Old Swinford Hospital does just this. It is a happy, vibrant and very distinctive state boarding school where traditions and values sit comfortably alongside innovation.
We are now approaching our 360th year. In 1667, the industrialist Thomas Foley founded a school where boys develop the skills and attributes required to go out into the wider world and make a difference. Today, boys and girls all benefit from his vision and his benefaction.
We are a Christian school and we are pleased to welcome children of any faith or, indeed, none at all. My colleagues are unwaveringly positive about the young people that live, study and breathe in the atmosphere that is OSH. They are rightly optimistic about who and what these young people can become.
As a state boarding school, we offer the academic and co-curricular facilities of private education at a fraction of the cost, allowing us to welcome a diverse selection of ambitious students.
We understand and respond to their individual and collective needs. We help each one to find and develop his or her own voice, and we watch with pride as they grow in confidence and self-esteem.
This website will give prospective parents and pupils a real sense of the community and experience that is OSH. The videos reflect pupils’ own thoughts rather than scripted views. Our latest news and social media offer an insight into everyday life, whilst the boarding section will give you an impression of the strengths of our boarding community. This website is now our school prospectus where parents and pupils will find admissions information and important documents.
Most importantly, I do hope that you will be able to visit us and I look forward to meeting you in person.
Paul Kilbride
Headmaster
“Pupils learn together, live together and thrive at Old Swinford Hospital.”
Ofsted, 2022
