Red Balloon Learner Centre Reading
Reading, Berkshire · RG1 4JJ
Red Balloon Learner Centre Reading is a specialist alternative provision for young people who have struggled with mainstream education, offering a therapeutic, small-group learning environment with flexible delivery options. The school prioritises creating a safe, supportive space where each student's individual needs are met through personalised learning pathways. With only 23 pupils on roll, the centre operates as part of the wider Red Balloon Educational Trust network, focusing on re-engaging disengaged learners and building confidence.
- →Highly personalised, small cohort environment (23 pupils) reducing anxiety and enabling tailored support
- →Therapeutic ethos combining learning with pastoral care for students who have experienced educational failure
- →Flexible delivery including online and blended options to accommodate individual learning profiles
Who thrives here
Young people aged 11–18 who have struggled in mainstream schools due to anxiety, behavioural challenges, SEND, or emotional needs; students who benefit from smaller class sizes, therapeutic environments, and individualised pacing.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
220-222 Kings Road
Reading, Berkshire
RG1 4JJ
Nearest stations
Frequently asked questions
What are the fees at Red Balloon Learner Centre Reading?
Day fees at Red Balloon Learner Centre Reading are approximately £22,500 per year (2024/25).
How do you get into Red Balloon Learner Centre Reading?
Red Balloon Learner Centre Reading admits pupils at 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by Interview, Assessment. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
What are Red Balloon Learner Centre Reading's exam results?
At Red Balloon Learner Centre Reading, 0% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is Red Balloon Learner Centre Reading a boarding school?
Red Balloon Learner Centre Reading is a day school in Reading and does not offer boarding.
What is Red Balloon Learner Centre Reading's latest inspection rating?
ISI rated Red Balloon Learner Centre Reading “Good” (2020).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Creates a genuinely safe, non-judgmental learning environment for vulnerable students
✓Listens to individual student needs and adapts provision accordingly (online, self-paced options)
✓Rebuilds confidence and re-engages learners who have failed in mainstream schools
Common concerns
!Very small cohort (23 pupils) limits peer group diversity and breadth of co-curricular activity
!Not yet Ofsted inspected, so independent quality assurance currently unavailable
!Fees not published; specialist provision typically costly and bursary data unknown