Head’s Welcome

A very warm welcome to Saint Felix School. Whether you are a prospective family, a current parent, or a friend of the school, I am delighted to share a little about who we are and what we believe in.

Saint Felix is a vibrant and nurturing community with heart. From Nursery through to Sixth Form, our students are continually encouraged to grow in confidence, to be curious, and to demonstrate kindness. Our beautiful coastal and rural setting provides unique opportunities, while our small class sizes ensure that every child is known and valued as an individual.

We are proud of our diverse boarding community, which brings together students from across the UK and around the world. This global outlook enriches daily life and fosters an atmosphere of openness, respect, and understanding.

Our approach is guided by the Saint Felix Learner Profile and our School Values, which provide a moral compass and are woven into every aspect of school life. They help our students to develop as independent thinkers and as rounded, resilient young people, ready to embrace opportunities both within school and beyond.

We provide a holistic education that balances academic ambition with a wealth of opportunities beyond the classroom. Sport, music, drama, outdoor adventures, clubs, and the arts all play a vital role in school life, enabling students to discover their passions and celebrate their achievements. Just as importantly, we place great emphasis on pastoral care — ensuring that every child feels supported, cared for, and prepared for life in an ever-changing world.

Above all, Saint Felix is a community built on positive relationships. It is a place where students are both challenged and nurtured, where staff, students, and parents work together in an atmosphere of warmth, encouragement, and mutual respect.

A Little About Me

I joined Saint Felix as Head in September 2023, and it has been a joy to become part of this very special community.

I grew up in Cambridge and was educated at The Perse School before reading History at St Edmund Hall, Oxford University. I went on to complete my PGCE at Keble College, Oxford University, and began my teaching career at Bryanston School in Dorset, where I also served as an Assistant Housemaster. From there, I moved to Wellington College and spent 25 fulfilling years in a wide range of roles — from Director of Sport and Head of Sixth Form to twelve years in senior leadership as Deputy Head (Academic) and then Senior Master.

Alongside my role here, I have worked as an ISI inspector for the past ten years and have previously served as a governor at both a Prep School in London and a State Academy Secondary School in Wiltshire.

Beyond school, I am married to my wife, Rossana, whom I met in Buenos Aires, and we share our home with two much-loved cats. I am a keen sportsman — equally happy playing or watching — and I also enjoy reading whenever I can.

Above all, I believe education should open doors, spark curiosity, and help young people to discover who they are and what they can achieve. At Saint Felix, I see those values in action every day, and I very much look forward to welcoming you to our school.

Mr Matthew Oakman

Head of Saint Felix School

Matthew Oakman, Head of Saint Felix School in Southwold, Suffolk
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