Best Schools in Reading 2026 — Rankings, Ofsted Ratings & Reviews
Compare 57 schools and nurseries in Reading — Ofsted ratings, exam results & admissions data.
Reading has 57 primary, secondary and independent schools educating over 25,000 pupils. The town is part of the Berkshire education area and benefits from one of the strongest local economies in the UK outside London, attracting families seeking quality schooling. Reading is notable for retaining grammar schools within its state system, offering selective education alongside comprehensive options.
Reading's educational outcomes are generally above the national average, boosted by grammar schools and strong academy provision. The town's proximity to London means some families commute while their children attend local schools, adding to admissions pressure at popular schools.
Reading at a Glance
Top Primary Schools in Reading
| School | Area | Ofsted | KS2 RWM % | Reading | Maths |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| All Saints Junior School | Reading | Outstanding | 92% | — | — |
| Redlands Primary School | Reading | Good | 87% | — | — |
| Alfred Sutton Primary School | Reading | Good | 83% | — | — |
| The Heights Primary School | Reading | Outstanding | 79% | — | — |
| St John's Church of England Primary School | Reading | Good | 78% | — | — |
Top Secondary Schools in Reading
| School | Area | Ofsted | Progress 8 | 5+ GCSE % | EBacc % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kendrick School | Reading | Outstanding | +1.07 | 100% | 93% |
| Reading School | Reading | Outstanding | +0.89 | 100% | 96% |
| Highdown School and Sixth Form Centre | Reading | Good | +0.25 | 80% | 39% |
| Maiden Erlegh School in Reading | Reading | Good | +0.12 | 72% | 54% |
| Reading Girls' School | Reading | Good | +0.05 | 67% | 40% |
Admissions in Reading — Key Dates
Reading Borough Council coordinates admissions for state schools. For September 2026, the secondary deadline was 31 October 2025 with offers on 1 March 2026. The primary deadline is 15 January 2026 with offers on 16 April 2026. Reading has grammar schools that require the 11+ entrance exam, typically sat in September of Year 6. Apply through reading.gov.uk.
Tip: Classpot shows the applications-to-places ratio for every school so you can gauge how competitive admissions are before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best schools in Reading?
Reading School (boys' grammar) and Kendrick School (girls' grammar) are consistently among the top-performing state schools in the country. For comprehensives, Prospect School and The Wren School achieve solid results. At primary level, The Hill Primary and Caversham Primary are well regarded.
Are there grammar schools in Reading?
Yes. Reading has two state grammar schools: Reading School (boys) and Kendrick School (girls). Both are highly selective and require the 11+ exam. They are among the top-performing state schools nationally.
How do I apply for a school place in Reading?
Apply through Reading Borough Council's online admissions portal. For grammar schools, register separately for the 11+ exam. You can list up to six preferences. Classpot shows each school's admissions data.
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