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Learning

The Reading Way is appropriate to our students’ needs and ambitions. It intends to be broad enough to develop the character traits needed so that no child is left behind beyond the school gates, yet deep enough to be unashamedly subject-oriented, whereby objectives are grounded in disciplinary appreciation beyond grades. Our curriculum encompasses both the academic and non-academic provision, with Reading School having several distinctive features which set it apart from others:

  • timetabled (outside of tutor time) fortnightly PSHE sessions for all students from Years 7-11
  • timetabled weekly Floreat (character and leadership) sessions for all students from Years 7-11
  • timetabled weekly Elective sessions for all students from Years 7-10, encompassing Design & Technology, STEM, Cooking and Bushcraft among others
  • single Sciences (Chemistry, Physics and Biology) from Years 7-11
  • Humanities taught separately from Year 7 (Geography, History, Theology & Philosophy)
  • all students in Year 9 complete the Higher Project Qualification (HPQ)
  • weekly Chapel and Assembly
  • Multiple Languages from Year 7 (French, German, Spanish, Latin, Mandarin)
  • Summer Belonging Week with educational visits for all of Years 7-10
  • New subjects added for Year 9 (Photography, Economics, Electronics, Ancient History)

Key Stage 3 (Years 7-8) is a foundation upon which future academic excellence is built. The broad base provides ample opportunity to develop the necessary skills and appetite for GCSEs whilst simultaneously giving the space for enrichment both within and outside of academic subjects. A strong sense of community is built within form groups, and a healthy sense of competition encourages excellence.  

Key Stage 4 (Years 9-11) empowers students in making 4 of their own subject choices alongside a rich core curriculum to create a personalised programme that purposefully exceeds EBacc requirements. The resultant smaller group teaching enables teachers to give the individualised support necessary in a school where we recognise that there is no linear path or timescale to academic progress. Boys begin to take leadership roles within and beyond the House system, giving them the opportunity to demonstrate integrity and excellence within the pastoral community.       

Key Stage 5 (Years 12-13) has a clear focus on scholarship. Through wider reading and vibrant intellectual discussion with subject specialists, a culture of aspiration means students are endowed with the power to rethink, challenge and create, leaving them best equipped for further education and employment. The continued SMSC and Games programme equips Reading School students, in particular those successfully elected to Senior Student Leadership Roles, with the knowledge and skills they need to become active, responsible and engaged men.