Reading Blue Coat is an independent day school with almost 800 students aged 11-18, set in an attractive 46-acre site reaching down to the banks of the River Thames in the village of Sonning-on-Thames in Berkshire. The School was founded in 1646 by Richard Aldworth, a merchant of London and Reading, and a Governor of Christ’s Hospital. In September 2023, the School extended the long-established co-education of the Sixth Form and welcomed girls into Year 7 and will be fully co-educational in all years by 2027.
Aims. The School aims to provide a stimulating and friendly atmosphere in which each student can achieve their full intellectual, physical and creative potential. Students are encouraged to be self-reliant and adaptable and we hope that they will learn the basis of good citizenship founded on honesty, fairness and understanding of the needs of others. At Reading Blue Coat, students have access to extensive co-curricular opportunities including music, drama, public speaking and sport, as well as in the community – all of which celebrate our values of aspiration, compassion, courage, integrity and service. To be kind and engaged is what we expect of every member of our community. Kind to one another and to ourselves, and engaged with learning and the wealth of opportunities that can be enjoyed in and away from the classroom.
Pastoral Care. At Blue Coat, our philosophy is that every student should be known and cared for as an individual. Good relationships are everything. Our focus in getting to know young people, enjoying their company, and finding out what makes them tick. With our low staff-to-student ratio, expert teachers, and individualised tutoring, we care for our students deeply and thoughtfully. That could be experienced in a House Family meeting, a one-to-one with a tutor, or just a good chat with a friend. What makes Blue Coat special is the personal touch.
Academic. The academic life of the School is defined by its commitment to excellence and sharing of high expectations. The learning habits of our students, and the development of their curiosity, knowledge and creativity are all considered to be essential elements of our academic curriculum. Expert staff help to unlock the potential in every student, seeking to instil a love for learning and develop flexible, independent thinkers.
Curriculum. In Years 7 to 9, students study core subjects of English, mathematics and sciences along with a broad range of subjects, including Classics, modern foreign languages and philosophy, religion and ethics. In Years 10 and 11, students follow courses in mathematics and sciences and also opt to complete four further courses in a wide range of additional subjects, such as history, geography, geology and physical education. A wide range of subjects is offered at A Level, including Psychology, Economics, Business, Politics and Drama, with nearly every student going on to university, including Oxford and Cambridge. Adventure Education has also been introduced as a compulsory part of the curriculum and is providing students with opportunities to flourish away from the classroom.
Sixth Form. The co-educational Sixth Form Centre accommodates more than 250 students. Students choose from a range of 26 subjects, including subjects most will not have studied before, such as business, economics, government and politics, drama and psychology. The Extended Project Qualification option is much valued in Higher Education. In addition to A Level courses, all Sixth Formers follow compulsory careers and enrichment programmes.
Sports and Activities. Competitive sport plays a key part in developing a Blue Coat student’s potential, no matter at what level, nor in which sport. Respect, belief, commitment, and sportsmanship are the characteristics we aim to nurture in each student. Main sports are athletics, cross country, cricket, football, girls’ hockey, netball, rowing, and rugby. All our main sports have a highly competitive and extensive fixture list and compete both at local and national level. Other popular competitive sports include badminton, basketball, golf, rugby sevens, swimming, table tennis, tennis, and touch rugby. Our highly qualified, experienced and enthusiastic coaching team, encourages every student to maximise their potential, as well as enjoy their experience regardless of ability.
The Combined Cadet Force includes Army, Royal Air Force and Royal Navy sections and The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, provide many opportunities for expeditions, trips, community service and leadership.
In our time-tabled Adventure Education and Activities programmes, students enjoy time away from the classroom to learn valuable lessons in leadership, communication, and resilience, as well as exploring the wider world in a variety of ways.
The arts. Music, Drama and Dance enjoy a high profile in the life of the School. Well over a third of the students receive individual instrumental lessons and are encouraged to join in activities such as the choir, Chamber Choir, Piano Trio, String Ensemble, Concert Band, Saxophone Group, Brass Group, Swing Band, Wind Band, Junior Strings, Treble Choir, rock bands, Senior Brass Group and Blue Coat Big Band. Concerts, drama productions and musicals are presented regularly throughout the academic year. The popular drama productions are all supported by a strong student technical theatre team.
Location and Facilities. The School is situated in the Thames-side village of Sonning-on-Thames, 10 minutes from Reading and close to the Regatta town of Henley-on-Thames. School House, originally built in the eighteenth century, stands at the heart of the School. The School’s facilities have undergone a continuous programme of improvement over the last decade, including a new IT Centre, a new Design Technology Centre, a new Geology and Psychology block and a Grounds, Maintenance and Activities Centre, which provides a shooting range and CCF and Adventure Education facilities. The three-classroom Coach House was also opened in 2021, and provides space for pupils to work collaboratively. The School has recently expanded its facilities for the Sixth Form and has plans for further development of a Performing Arts Centre. Our extensive sports facilities include an on-site boathouse, eight outstandingly maintained rugby and football pitches, six cricket squares, four netball courts, three tennis courts, a swimming pool, a multi-use Sports Hall, a multi-use games area (MUGA), an athletics track with a dedicated jumping area and a fitness suite. We also share facilities with Reading RFC, Reading Hockey club, Sonning Cricket club and Berkshire County Sports Club.
Admissions. The three main points of entry in September are at 11+, 13+ and 16+. 11+ entry is by assessments taken in the previous autumn term, and 13+ assessments take place during the autumn term of Year 7. Entry at other levels is by assessment and interview and is subject to vacancies. Entry to the sixth form for girls and boys is by formal letter of application, interview and conditional on GCSE results. From September 2023, the School extended its co-educational provision to welcome girls into Year 7.
Scholarships and Bursaries. The award of scholarships and bursaries, including academic scholar, art, dance, drama, music and sports awards, are based on merit and need. Foundation Scholarships up to 100% of fees are available according to financial need.
Fees per term (2023-2024). £6,655.
Charitable status. Reading Blue Coat School is a Registered Charity, number 1087839.