Nestling in the heart of a leafy corner of academic Oxford, close to the colleges and the science faculties, New College School has the air of something special.

Perhaps it is the family atmosphere, in which parents and even grandparents join in the life of the School, the international reputation of the New College Choir, or the way the school nurtures high-level individual talent in sport or in art or drama.

Or perhaps it is the way in which small boys feel welcomed into one of Oxford’s colleges as they take their first steps along a lifelong journey of learning.

“Having worked in several bigger schools, I really enjoy knowing all of the boys and their families very well”, said headmaster Robert Gullifer.

“The boys are all exceptionally keen to learn and have a breathtaking range of interests, which they love to talk about.”

The headmaster has lunch with the boys every day and strongly believes that boys and teachers can learn much from each other in a friendly community.

Rosemary Cox, head of pre-prep, whose own sons are New College School pupils, says that boys make rapid progress from an early age. “It is great to teach in a place where they love coming to school and have so many opportunities. There is never a dull moment in pre-prep!”

The school has an enviable reputation for obtaining scholarships and awards to prestigious senior schools, but work and play sit happily together and boys pack a lot into the day.”

My son’s teachers know him nearly as well as I do,” commented one parent. “They are specialists in understanding boys and inspiring them to achieve.”

Music, of course, abounds. A large number of boys play one or more musical instruments, and everyone has the opportunity to be involved in plays and in sports teams.

Games take place on New College’s field and there are plenty of fixtures against local schools. New College School has been part of Oxford life since 1379 when boys slept on straw mattresses in the college and served at table. It is rather different now. The handsome new building accommodates a sports hall, music technology centre and a new art room.

“But in the end, it is the pupils and teachers who make New College School particularly special,” said Mr Gullifer.

“I must have one of the best jobs in Oxford.”