Grafton has its aim set on nurturing and produce young gentlemen of the highest calibre. The House values and expects good behaviour and manners from its boys, with a strong House spirit driving plenty of successes in inter-House competitions. Grafton is a place where effort and success are celebrated in equal measure.
Grafton is led by Housemaster Will Judd, who teaches DET as well as coaching rugby and cricket and being involved in the CCF army section. He joined Oundle in September 2023 from Monkton Combe School in Bath, where he had been a boarding Houseparent for five years. He had previously been Head of Design Technology and a boarding Tutor in two different boarding Houses at Framlingham College. Will, his wife and and their three children have quickly become an important part of the Oundle community. Will is supported by Deputy Housemaster, Simon Whitmore, and Matron Iline Denny, along with a team of dedicated Tutors.
Will Judd, HousemasterI encourage you to give everything a go – put aside any fear of failing and engage fully. Grafton is a place where we celebrate effort and success in equal measure.
Front Lawn
Front Lawn
Daily life in Grafton reflects the rhythm and richness of Oundle’s full-boarding ethos. Boys live, learn and grow together in a community that is both busy and balanced – shaped by shared routines, strong relationships and a deep sense of belonging.
Common Room
Common Room
Boarding Life
Courtyard
Dining Hall
Common Room
Dining Hall
Grafton places a strong emphasis on ‘esprit de corps’. We value teamwork, resilience, kindness and honesty. At the start, more than ever, it is important to remember these values. Our advice is to find friends, both in House and around the School, whilst throwing yourself into the extra-curricular activities that are on offer.
Grafton House was established in 1902, and was initially based in Cottesmore House on West Street, until it moved to one of the new Field Houses in 1906.
Grafton is named after Sir Richard Grafton, Grocer and Printer who was tasked with the job of printing the first authorised English translation of the Bible, Henry VIII’s Great Bible. His coat of arms inspired the use of the barrel for the House emblem.