Douai School is an independent school for 210 boys and girls (day, boarding and weekly boarding) aged 10 to 18. It is situated 1 mile north of the A4 at Woolhampton, 10 miles west of Reading, and 5 miles from Junction 12 of the M4.
The school aims to provide a caring Christian environment in which pupils are inspired to work hard and to prepare for the demands of the modern world. They are also encouraged to enjoy sport, to explore the arts and to develop other skills and interests.
Two of the five Pastoral Heads of house are members of the monastic community. The Head, Deputy Head, three Pastoral Heads of house and Heads of Dept are lay men and women. Most of the pupils are Roman Catholics but Christians of other denominations are also welcome.
Douai is up-to-date in the provision of academic facilities, such as computer rooms and science laboratories. There is also generous provision for sports (indoor swimming pool, squash court, multi-gym and two large areas devoted to 4 all weather tennis courts and pitches). Drama, Music and Art are flourishing activities. If necessary, help is available for pupils with learning difficulties as a chargeable extra, and this department is well resourced with 6 part-time, specialist teachers.
ASSISTED PLACES AND SCHOLARSHIPS
The school and abbey have always had close ties with the local area but Douai has recently sought to increase this involvement by responding to the growing demand for day places. Scholarships are also available for pupils who are outstanding in academic work, in music or in art; there is also a generous scholarship for pupils entering the sixth form, available to both internal and external candidates. Government Assisted Places Scheme awarded at age of 11 subject to academic ability.
Buses operate a pick-up and drop-off service for day pupils on routes from Hewbury and Basingstoke. Recently the School has developed closer links with local business and commerce.
