Independent SeniorCo-educationalISI · Excellent
Reading Blue Coat School logo

Reading Blue Coat School

Berkshire · RG4 6SU

AAB+ A-level

27.3%

9–7 GCSE

83.7%

Day fees

£26k

Inspection

Excellent

Read report
School website

Reading Blue Coat is a coeducational independent day school for ages 11–18 set on the banks of the River Thames in Sonning, Berkshire. The school articulates a values-driven approach centred on Aspiration, Compassion, Courage, Integrity, and Service, aiming to develop intellectually curious, grounded young people. With strong recent A-level results (84% A*–B) and a focus on both academic ambition and pastoral care, it positions itself as a supportive yet rigorous alternative to selective grammar schools in the region.

  • Strong A-level and GCSE results without selective 11+ entry; accessible excellence
  • Explicit values-led pastoral model with wellbeing centre and house system
  • Riverside location and facilities; adventure education and co-curricular breadth
  • Coeducational ethos and visible commitment to diversity and inclusion

Who thrives here

Motivated, collaborative learners who value a rounded education and community spirit; students seeking strong academics without the intensity of ultra-selective schools; those attracted to values-based leadership and service-oriented culture.

Strengths at a glance

Exam results50th pctSports50th pctCo-curricular50th pctValue vs peers50th pctPastoral & wellbeing100th pct

Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.

At a glance

School typeIndependent Senior · Day
Founded1646
Number of pupils791
Sixth form251
Pupils with SEND21
Age range11–18
GenderCo-educational
Day fees£26.1k/yr
AssociationsHMC, ISC
Settingsuburban
LocationSituated in Sonning village on the Thames; served by local bus routes and accessible from Reading mainline station via bus or car.

Contact & visit

Holme Park, Sonning Lane, Sonning-on-Thames

Berkshire

RG4 6SU

www.rbcs.org.uk
01189441005
Mr Pete Thomas, Headteacher

Nearest stations

Reading15 min
Sonning5 min

Frequently asked questions

What are the fees at Reading Blue Coat School?

Day fees at Reading Blue Coat School are approximately £26,100 per year (2026/27).

How do you get into Reading Blue Coat School?

Reading Blue Coat School admits pupils at 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by 11+ Selective Examination. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.

What are Reading Blue Coat School's exam results?

At Reading Blue Coat School, 27.3% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 83.7% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.

Is Reading Blue Coat School a boarding school?

Reading Blue Coat School is a day school in Berkshire and does not offer boarding.

What is Reading Blue Coat School's latest inspection rating?

ISI rated Reading Blue Coat School “Excellent” (2019).

What parents say

Frequently praised

Strong academic results without selective entry; accessible to a wider cohort

Genuine values-driven ethos and pastoral care; visible wellbeing investment

Inclusive, coeducational environment with commitment to diversity

Co-curricular breadth and adventure education; riverside setting and facilities

Supportive approach to learning and individual development

Common concerns

!Day-only model may not suit families requiring flexibility or those preferring boarding options

!Not yet inspected by Ofsted; limited external validation of quality

!Fees and financial aid structures not transparently detailed on public website