What people say about us

‘I've really improved my organisation and time management skills at d'Overbroeck's. The teachers are really professional: they know a whole range of techniques to use in the classroom and they really know how to approach the exams and how to get good results.’

Stanislav Derev, Russia

‘It's the first time I've studied so hard in my life – because the teachers encouraged me so much.’

Anastasia Butakova, Russia

‘I most enjoyed the science lessons: I feel I can ask questions when I don't understand, and that really helps ... and I did lots of experiments in the laboratory, which I did not have as much chance to do in my own country.’

Varin Virachjarassin (Fon), Thailand

‘The atmosphere is informal and cosy. I loved it. Everybody is happy and friendly. I only realised this now – but in my previous school it was very strict and here I think the students learn in a better atmosphere, because they enjoy it.’

Alima Boranbayeva, Kazakhstan

‘The teachers are really different. They are like friends. In my own country, Azerbaizan, they are not as close to the students. I was afraid to ask questions. Here I'm never afraid to ask for help and I learned a lot of new things.’

Tunjay Baghirov, Azerbaizhan

‘I was surrounded by intelligent students and I had the opportunity to talk to them about things in different fields. It was a real incentive for me!

The atmosphere is so friendly and vibrant. Everyone knows each other so well, and we were always together which means a lot for me as I made many friends I really cherish.’

Yuko Ishibashi, Japan

‘I'd say that this year will be one of the most impressive periods of time in my life, as I've learned a lot and built up my confidence as well. I have higher expectations for myself because of your encouragement. I love this school so much that I feel a bit sad to leave. I will miss you all. Thank you indeed!’

Ja Q Li (Sissi), China

‘The staff don't only care about the subjects and your academic achievement. They also care a lot about your personality, helping you to form ideas about your future and giving exceptionally useful advice.’

Kira Tritenko, Russia

‘There are lots of sports and activities at d'Overbroeck's. I went ice-skating for the first time in my life, and I performed in a pantomime. I have never learned dancing, singing and acting before. I also learned how to make sushi, Thai green curry and other international dishes in cookery club.’

Varin Virachjarassin (Fon), Thailand

‘One of my most memorable moments is the pantomime at Christmas. From my point of view this is something I would never do at home – so it was a real challenge to my attitude.’

Stanislav Derev, Russia

‘I've learnt to be independent and communicate with others to solve problems for myself. At home in China I would rely on my parents to deal with any problems, but I've learnt to deal with them myself here.’

Yan Han (Henry), China

‘I feel like I really use my brain now. And I think I developed many qualities that I didn't know I had. For example, I can handle a lot of hard work and be patient about accepting it. I didn't know I could work that much! I wasn't a lazy student before – but I wasn't an enthusiastic one – because I was labelled a 'non-scientist' at my last school.

But here, with the support and encouragement of the teachers I really enjoyed my studies and I proved to myself I can do science. I really enjoyed my studies here a lot – and when you enjoy something you are successful.’

Anastasia Butakova, Russia

‘My host family are really nice – we chat a lot at dinner time and watch TV together too. Sometimes their grand-daughters come over at the weekend and we eat a family meal together.’

Mana Nakada, Japan

‘[I have] an excellent host parent. We talk about absolutely everything – what's happening in the world, what happened at school, things on TV – all sorts. My English really improved because I watch television and talk with [my host parent] a lot. I think I'm more confident about speaking English with people than before and I can even act as a translator for my parents on holiday.’

Zhang Qi (Sam), China

‘Living with a host family was an experience worth having. It is the surest way to really 'feel' what it's like to live in Britain. I learned to negotiate and accept differences, which I reckon very important when I live abroad without my family.’

Yuko Ishibashi, Japan

‘I wasn't scared when I first arrived here, because I knew there would be a lot of people to help me. My House Parent took me to school on the first day, and one of the teachers took me to the city centre to show me round Oxford and introduce life here. The biggest problem I faced was to remember the way to school and the bus stops – but the teachers showed me this, too.’

Luli Liu (Catherine), China

‘The school is responsible for the students if they want to go somewhere out of Oxford. We need our parents' or guardian's permission. This policy make my parents and me feel the school really cared about our safety.’

Angi Gu (Angie), China

‘There might be parents that really worry about their son or daughter having free time at the weekend. However, when you want to go anywhere, you need permission and to tell the school who you are going to visit, what their contact details are, and when you will come back. The tutors also help us with transport – the coach or the train. So it's very safe and I really enjoyed being able to visit other places.’

Ji Soo Won, Korea