Families moving to the Southern Highlands quickly discover they’re spoiled for choice when it comes to education, with an impressive range of schools catering to different needs and learning styles.
And while each school has its own strengths, one name kept popping up time and time again: Oxley College.
Recently, The Fold Southern Highlands team had the chance to visit and experience the school firsthand, and it turns out, Oxley is far more than just a pretty face. Yes, the Burradoo campus is undeniably beautiful. Yes, the welcome is genuine. But what really stood out was the depth of purpose, the clear values, and a strong, enduring community spirit that shines through in everything they do.
It’s something you feel as soon as you step onto the grounds. And once you’ve felt it, it’s hard to forget.
Founding vision and legacy
Oxley College is a school with strong local roots, an incredible vision and a founding story worth telling.
It all began when a group of local families, unsatisfied with the existing education options, set out to create something better. Something they genuinely believed in.
They wanted an inclusive, forward-thinking school that offered academic excellence, personal growth, creativity and a deep connection to community, without needing to send their kids off to a Sydney boarding school in order to get it.
So they set out to build it, right in the heart of the Southern Highlands, in Burradoo.
Determined to bring their vision to life, they made extraordinary sacrifices. Some families quite literally footed the bill, mortgaging their homes to make the school a reality. Others rolled up their sleeves and got their hands dirty, helping to build the playing fields. Their determination paid off. Oxley College opened its doors in 1983 with just 24 students. Today, it welcomes more than 800! [Anyone else humming ‘from little things big things grow’?].
This is a school built by the community, for the community. And it shows.
A distinctive identity
Oxley stands apart, and proudly so. It’s non-denominational, co-educational and truly independent. Free to make decisions that serve the needs of its students without being bound by external systems or red tape.
That freedom translates into genuine innovation. After staff noticed some students felt a bit lost in Year 8 after the structured support of Year 7, the school introduced tailored electives to reignite engagement. Electives like Outdoor Education, Musical Theatre, and Ceramics, are now keeping the students engaged and connected.
Hands-on learners now have access to wood techniques, as well as a study skills program designed to build academic confidence through the middle years.
And that spirit of innovation has long been part of the school’s DNA. Years ago, a former Head of School introduced a student-run café on campus. And it’s still going strong. Every morning, students make coffee for students and teachers, creating a relaxed, informal space where connection thrives beyond the classroom. So cool!
One of the most refreshing aspects of the school? It’s co-ed by design!
Co-education wasn’t an afterthought, it was a founding principle. The families who built this school believed in the power of boys and girls learning side by side, shaping confident, empathetic individuals ready to engage with the world as equals.
A lovely place to grow – a true sense of community sets it apart
The grounds of Oxley are something special. Seven hectares of lush, rural, parkland-style space, which means there’s loads of room for kids to learn, explore and simply enjoy being kids.
At the heart of it all lies Elvo Lawn, a playful anagram of “Love”. And standing proudly in its centre is a magnificent 70-year-old Pin Oak Tree. More than a beautiful centrepiece, it’s a true gathering point for the school community. As the seasons shift, so too does the tree. Its fresh spring blooms arriving just in time for graduation, as if it somehow knows the students are blossoming too, ready for their next adventure.
In terms of numbers, Oxley is smaller than many schools in the region. But that’s one of its greatest strengths. It’s big enough to offer rich opportunities, yet small enough that every student is seen, supported, and truly known.
Here, friendships stretch across year levels, with no strict divides between age groups. Shared spaces, house systems, mentor and peer groups foster a sense of family. It’s a school where every child is free to grow in their own way.
A broad and balanced curriculum
In Years 7 to 10, students have access to an impressive broad curriculum. But it’s not about having more for the sake of it. It’s about giving students the chance to explore their interests, try new things and build confidence along the way.
The curriculum balances core academic subjects like English, Mathematics, Science, History and Geography, with a wide range of electives including Music, Visual Arts, Drama, Physical Activity and Sports Studies (PASS), Food Technology, Design and Technology, and Languages.
It’s a comprehensive approach that not only prepares students academically, but also helps them develop well-rounded skills and the confidence to take on whatever life throws their way.
They’re making good world citizens
At Oxley, experiential education is at the heart of everything.
Yes, academic excellence is a priority, but just as important is raising kind, curious and courageous kids who are ready to step confidently into the world. With a strong focus on character, inclusion and global awareness, Oxley is preparing students to make a positive contribution wherever they go.
Oxley supports students to stretch beyond the classroom and find a greater sense of purpose in a whole range of activities.
Like their renowned Outback program, which is a two-week journey through remote Australia that builds resilience, leadership and lifelong bonds, it’s almost a coming-of-age experience for Year 11 students. From hiking the landscape around Uluru to cooking and cleaning as a team, it’s an adventure that shapes and connects students for the year ahead and beyond.
In Year 9, students take part in Oxley’s Rites of Passage program, a 10-day adventure in Sydney designed to help them step into the next stage of their school journey. There are group-led scavenger hunts across the city, uni visits, live shows, and big conversations. It’s the beginning of their shift into senior school, and a brilliant way to explore identity outside the classroom. It’s a jam-packed experience built around the idea of “Telling Your Story”, helping students stretch their independence, build solid friendships and start thinking about what’s next. It’s bold, brilliant and very Oxley.
Meanwhile, the school’s Centre for Ethics delivers the “Cornerstone” program. Taught in Years 7 to 10, it explores ethical and philosophical ideas, helping students think critically, ask big questions and build a strong moral compass.
As a candidate school for the Round Square global network, Oxley is extending its reach internationally. Students have already experienced life and other cultures in countries like Japan, England, Kenya and Colombia. Creating opportunities for students to experience life beyond the Highlands through exchange, service, and leadership. The students come home with more than just awesome stories, they make new friends from around the globe.
And Oxley’s just as committed to bringing the world in, too. Hosting a great line-up of community events with inspiring guest speakers who spark big conversations and give students a platform to ask questions and share their voice.
Past guests have included Leigh Sales and Jennifer Robinson, with Stan Grant, Professor Peter Greste and history communicator and satirist David Hunt, all set to take the stage next. It’s smart, spirited conversation at its best.
So much to love about Oxley, isn’t there?!
So, what’s on the horizon?
The focus is firmly on enhancing the student experience, with thoughtful, long-term improvements that reflect the needs of the Oxley community.
Six new architecturally designed modular classrooms are on the way. Each ready for more learning and fun.
Hoskins Hall which is home to the school’s many theatre productions is also set for a glow-up, with upgrades planned to create a performing arts and lecture space that will spark even more creativity and expression. It’s already a favourite spot for school performances and these changes will make it an even more enjoyable venue for students and the local community alike.
Sustainability remains a priority, with further initiatives building on existing solar infrastructure. And to improve accessibility, new bus routes, including one via Wilton, will better connect students across the region.
Plenty to look forward to, so watch this space!
Oxley’s motto is BE CHALLENGE READY, and they don’t just say it – they live it.
They’ve embraced the challenges, and the students are growing into confident, well-rounded individuals, ready to make a difference.
So, why not see it for yourself? Visit Oxley College, meet the team and experience firsthand what makes this school truly unique. Whether it’s an Open Morning, a personal tour or simply exploring online, there are plenty of ways to get to know the school.
Reach out today and take the first step toward discovering what Oxley College has to offer.
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