We are delighted to announce that planning permission has been granted for a major extension to our Sports Centre, marking a significant milestone in the School’s long-term investment in sport, wellbeing and performance. This state-of-the-art gymnasium will strengthen Oakham’s position as a school where sport is not only a tradition, but a vital part of its modern, holistic and innovative education.
Sport has long shaped Oakham pupils’ confidence, character and resilience, and this development secures continued opportunity and excellence for future generations of Oakhamians.
A Vision for Performance, Participation and Wellbeing
The approved plans set out an ambitious and inclusive vision for a new gym facility designed to meet the needs of every pupil. Carefully conceived to support both high-level athletic development and lifelong fitness, the extension will provide modern, flexible spaces that reflect Oakham’s sporting philosophy: excellence for those who aspire to it, and inspiration for everyone.
At the heart of the development will be a dedicated performance gym, equipped to support athletic development from fundamental movement skills through to advanced strength and conditioning. Alongside this, a spacious first-floor fitness suite will offer a comprehensive range of cardiovascular and resistance equipment, ensuring accessibility for pupils of all abilities and ambitions.
Complementing these areas will be a purpose-built spin studio, designed to create an immersive and motivating group fitness environment, as well as flexible studio spaces for activities such as yoga, Pilates, boxercise and high-intensity interval training. Together, these facilities will significantly enhance Oakham’s co-curricular and games provision, while promoting positive physical and mental wellbeing.
Designed to Inspire Every Pupil
Steve May, Director of Sport at Oakham School, explains:
“This new gym reflects our commitment to providing the very best opportunities for our pupils. It has been designed not only to support high-level performance, but also to encourage every pupil to enjoy the benefits of being physically active. With areas dedicated to athletic development, fitness training and group activities, it will significantly enhance our provision and ensure that all pupils can find a space that inspires them.”
Flooded with natural light and thoughtfully integrated into the existing Sports Centre, the extension will also improve accessibility, circulation and supporting facilities, ensuring that the building works seamlessly for pupils, staff, spectators and the wider school community.
Investing in Oakham’s Sporting Future
This planning approval represents an important step in Oakham School’s continued programme of investment in its campus and facilities. Although construction timing is not set yet, the planning permission enables the School to move forward with confidence to the next development phase. Looking ahead to Oakham’s 450th anniversary, this project stands as a powerful symbol of the School’s commitment to honouring its heritage while embracing the future with ambition and purpose.
Building a Lasting Legacy For Our Community
Oakham School now invites members of its extended family, including alumni, parents and friends of the School, to be part of this exciting journey. Through philanthropy and leadership support, there is an opportunity to help bring this vision to life and to create a lasting legacy for generations of Oakhamians to come.
We warmly invite members of our community who are interested in learning more about the project, or in supporting the future of sport at Oakham School through philanthropy, to get in touch with the Oakham School Foundation team: Contact foundation@oakham.rutland.sch.uk or call 01572 758599.
For families who would like to find out more about sport and life at Oakham School, we warmly encourage you to contact our Admissions team to book your place at our next open event, arrange an individual tour or chat to us about the opportunities for your child at Oakham. Contact admissions@oakham.rutland.sch.uk or call 01572 758758.
