Schools

Reading offers a strong and varied education landscape for families, with a wide choice of high-quality state and independent schools, including some of the best performing secondary schools in the country such as 900 year-old Reading School, which saw almost 90 per cent of students achieving A-level results in the A* to B grade (2025).

Whether you're looking for a nurturing environment for early years, a technology-focused secondary school or a private school with an abundance of extracurricular choices, Reading provides educational opportunities to meet every child’s needs. With a track record of strong leadership, community engagement, and a passion for student success, Reading is a great place for families to grow and learn. 

State primary schools in Reading

Reading is home to a broad range of well-regarded state schools that cater to children from diverse backgrounds and support every stage of learning and providing a high-quality start in life. There are 36 primary schools for ages 4-11 years (providing infants and junior schools), two infant schools (4-7 years old) and two junior schools (7-11 years old).

Schools like New Town Primary School, Coley Primary School, and Katesgrove Primary School provide welcoming environments where student well-being is at the heart of learning. Civitas Academy and St John’s Church of England Primary School offer strong student-teacher ratios and nurturing settings, while Ranikhet Academy also stand out for their commitment to safe and supportive learning. 

Top ranked by Ofsted are All Saints, west of the city centre, Redlands and Alfred Sutton primaries near the University, the Heights, St Martin's and Caversham primaries in Caversham and St John's in Newtown. 

State secondary schools in Reading

State secondary schools in Reading range from co-ed and single-sex comprehensives, to state selective grammar schools, academies and a University Technical College (UTC). On the secondary level, Reading offers a range of high-performing and specialised schools.

The two state grammar schools, Reading School (boys) and Kendrick School (girls) are ranked in the top 100 schools in the UK (Daily Mail).  Reading School was also named the Southeast State Secondary School of the Year in The Sunday Times Parent Power Schools Guide for 2024 and 2025. Entry is via the competitive 11+ entrance examination. 

UTC Reading (ages 14 to 19) delivers a future-focused education in technology and engineering, preparing students for careers in innovation-led industries. The Maiden Erlegh Academy Trust now has six secondary schools in the Reading area offering strong academic outcomes within respectful, supportive environments. This includes the Hamilton School, a SEMH (Social, Emotional, and Mental Health) Special School in Reading catering for up to 64 students with Education, Health Care Plans (EHCP). The WREN School and Prospect School provide vibrant learning cultures focused on inclusivity and achievement. Highdown School and Sixth Form Centre is an academy school serving Caversham respected for its inclusivity. 

Independent secondary schools

For families seeking independent education, Reading offers a selection of well-established private schools with diverse strengths and specialisms. 

Schools like The Abbey School (Independent Girls School of the Year 2024) and Queen Anne’s School (both all-girls institutions) combine academic excellence with rich histories. Reading Blue Coat School and Leighton Park School offer co-educational options with a strong emphasis on extracurricular life and values-based education. St Joseph’s College is known for its focus on individual development, behaviour and achievement. Meanwhile, Padworth College provides an international learning environment with both day and boarding options, ideal for students seeking global pathways.

Further Education in Reading

For further education, there are a number of colleges in and around Reading such as Reading College, as well as sixth forms attached to state secondary schools such as Maiden Erlegh, Forest and Highdown. 

The world-renowned University of Reading and Henley Business School provide avenues for those looking to continue their studies into higher education in Reading.

Visit Reading Borough Council, Wokingham Borough Council and West Berkshire Council for full lists of schools in and around the Greater Reading area.