Rupert House School is an independent pre‑preparatory and preparatory school situated in Henley‑on‑Thames, Oxfordshire, England. The school provides education for boys and girls aged 3 to 11 and occupies premises at 90 Bell Street, RG9 2BN.
History
The school was founded in 1924 under the name St Joan’s School, initially enrolling ten pupils. Following a relocation from New Street to its present Bell Street site, it was renamed after Prince Rupert of the Rhine. Over the ensuing decades the institution expanded its facilities, including the acquisition of playing fields on the Fairmile and the construction of an all‑weather sports pitch, opened in 2018 by former Olympic hockey player Jo Ellis.
Organisation and Curriculum
Rupert House School operates as a co‑educational independent school without a religious affiliation. It follows the National Curriculum framework, supplemented by a broad range of extracurricular activities in sport, arts, and academic competitions. The school’s enrolment is approximately 160 pupils, and it emphasizes small class sizes to support individualized learning. The school colours are blue, white, and yellow.
Facilities
The campus includes dedicated classrooms for early years and preparatory stages, a library, art and music spaces, and extensive outdoor areas. Sporting facilities comprise the Fairmile playing fields, an all‑weather pitch, and access to local community sports amenities.
Notable Alumni
Among its former pupils is Tina Brown, the journalist and former editor of the United States edition of Tatler magazine.
Governance
The head teacher is N. A. Armitage. The school is inspected by the Independent Schools Inspectorate and is listed with the UK Department for Education under URN 123276.
Affiliations
Rupert House School is a member of the Independent Schools Council and participates in regional events such as the Henley Youth Festival junior proms.
References
- “Rupert House School”, Wikipedia, accessed 12 April 2026.
- The Good Schools Guide; Independent Schools Council; Henley Standard articles on school facilities and events.