OIC Celebrates Positive 2026 ISI Inspection Report

The report confirms that OIC meets all five applicable regulatory areas, covering leadership and governance, quality of education, physical and mental health and wellbeing, social development and safeguarding.

The findings mark an important milestone in the college's continued development under the leadership of Principal Dr Sarah Watson, reflecting a clear focus on academic ambition, personalised student support and strengthening the overall student experience.

Inspectors recognised this commitment to progress, highlighting a “culture of active review and improvement” and noting that “leaders and governors know the school well and discharge their responsibilities effectively.”

Academic Excellence and A Level Success at Oxford International College

As a specialist A Level college in Oxford, OIC combines ambitious academic teaching with personalised guidance to prepare students for competitive university courses in the UK and internationally.

The ISI report recognised the strength of the college's academic curriculum, stating:

“The curriculum is ambitious and prepares pupils well for examinations, higher education and future careers, particularly in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) fields.”

Inspectors also recognised the college's approach to academic support, noting that targeted interventions help students succeed in external examinations and that their A Level performance supports their ambitions to attend research-led universities with the highest entry requirements.

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Personalised University Preparation for Leading UK and Global Universities

OIC's university preparation programme is designed to help students navigate competitive admissions processes, including applications to Oxford, Cambridge, Russell Group universities and leading international institutions.

Through personalised academic pathways, specialist university advisers and opportunities for research and enrichment, students develop the knowledge, skills and confidence required for their next steps.

The ISI report highlighted the expertise of OIC's university guidance team:

“Specialist advisers understand different admissions systems in both the UK and overseas and help pupils make realistic choices. Pupils appreciate the guidance they receive.”

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A Supportive International Boarding School Community in Oxford

Beyond academic achievement, inspectors recognised the positive culture and supportive environment at Oxford International College.

The report observed:

“Pupils behave well. They are courteous, focused and strongly motivated to learn.”

The inspection also highlighted the importance of boarding and pastoral care in supporting students' academic progress, emotional wellbeing and preparation for independent living.

Safeguarding arrangements were confirmed as effective, while inspectors recognised students' contributions to the local Oxford community and wider society through volunteering and social-impact initiatives.

These findings reflect OIC's commitment to developing academically ambitious, compassionate and independent young people within a supportive international school community.

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Strong Leadership and a Commitment to Continuous Improvement

Under Dr Sarah Watson's leadership, OIC continues to build on its academic strengths while developing its boarding, pastoral and wider educational provision.

Reflecting on the findings, Dr Watson said:

“We are incredibly proud of these findings, which recognise the dedication of our staff, the ambition of our students and the positive progress being made across the college.

“Our focus is on creating an environment where academic excellence goes hand in hand with personalised support, wellbeing and a strong sense of community. This report is an important recognition of that commitment and a foundation on which we will continue to build.”

The college will also address the report's recommendation to increase regular participation in physical activity among students, as part of its ongoing commitment to improvement.

With all five regulatory areas met, the September 2026 ISI inspection provides independent reassurance of the quality of education, care and support at Oxford International College.

As OIC looks ahead, its commitment remains unchanged: defining futures through expert teaching, personalised pathways and an inspiring international community in Oxford.

Read the Full Oxford International College ISI Inspection Report 2026