When the Sisters of St Marie Madeleine Postel founded St Joseph's Convent School in 1894 in Bracknell, their aim was simple: to provide a good education in a warm and loving atmosphere. That mission remains remarkably intact today, though the school has evolved significantly. Relocated to Upper Redlands Road in 1910 and transformed into a co-educational institution in September 2010, St Joseph's College now serves approximately 550 pupils aged three to 18 as a seamless all-through day school. The school is distinguished by modest fees relative to comparable independent schools in South East England, accessibility to families of varied backgrounds, and a deliberately mixed-ability intake. The ISI inspection in 2022 confirmed that pupils achieve good progress, behavior is excellent, and the school maintains strong safeguarding standards. In 2024, 47% of GCSE grades achieved top levels (9-7), and 77% of A-level students secured A*-B grades. The school ranks in the top 10% in England for A-level outcomes (FindMySchool ranking) and sits comfortably within the top 25% for GCSE performance (FindMySchool data), placing it among Reading's most successful selective independent schools.
St Joseph's College occupies a single campus on a substantial estate, with Victorian and Edwardian architecture coexisting with purposefully designed modern extensions. The current College Theatre originated from extensions built in 1928; a modernised Chapel, consecrated in 1967, serves the Catholic life of the school; and a dedicated Prep School, constructed in 1988, houses the younger pupils in a purpose-designed setting. St Joseph's College, Reading in Redlands, Reading has a clear sense of identity shaped by its setting and community. Children from three years old through to 18 share the same grounds, contributing to what parents and staff consistently describe as a family atmosphere where older students mentor younger ones and transitions between phases occur without jarring change.
Head of School Mrs Laura Stotesbury has led since September 2021, arriving from Prior Park College in Bath where she held the position of Deputy Head (Academic). A teacher of Economics and Business, she brings experience from selective independent schools and has articulated her vision of education that develops not merely academic excellence but kind, generous citizens engaged in creative and physical pursuits. Under her leadership, the school has increased to over 550 pupils from approximately 300 at the time of co-education, representing genuine growth in community and resource.
The Catholic identity of the school is visible and lived, yet explicitly welcomes families of all faiths. The school's motto, Optima Deo (My Best for God), reflects the De La Salle educational philosophy that has underpinned teaching since the Sisters' founding. Daily life includes prayer, regular Masses, and explicit religious teaching, yet parents report that the school's approach is inclusive rather than exclusive; Catholic values are translated into universal human virtues of service, respect, and integrity. The house system, reorganised in 2019 to mark the 125th anniversary, comprises four named houses: Dixon, Hummel, Jennings and Richardson. These houses create identity and friendly competition, with a House Cup awarding points across academic, artistic, and sporting achievement.
St Joseph's College ranks 464th in England for GCSE outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), placing it in the top 10% and 9th among Reading's selective schools. This represents genuinely strong performance within the independent sector. In 2024, 47% of all GCSE entries achieved top grades (9-7), compared to 54% in England; 47% achieved grades 7 or above. The school saw particular strength in Mathematics, Geography, History, Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science and Music, where 60% or more of pupils attained top grades. Progress 8 measures remain a school strength, indicating that pupils progress significantly from their starting points in Key Stage 2.
The school's selective admissions mean intake ability is higher than average, yet the breadth of results demonstrates that achievement spans the full range of candidates. Pupils join at Year 7 following entrance examinations in English, Mathematics, and cognitive reasoning; the school explicitly avoids tutoring-dependent tests and maintains that entrance is achievable through genuine ability rather than coaching.
A-level performance sits notably above GCSE, with the school ranking 252nd (FindMySchool ranking), placing it in the top 10% in England. In 2024, 77% of grades attained A*-B, with 18% achieving A* and 29% achieving A. This profile indicates strong progression from GCSE to sixth form, whether through internal progression or external intake. The school offers a full range of A-level subjects and has particular strength in humanities, sciences, and creative subjects including Drama and Music.
64% of the 2023-24 leaver cohort (48 students) progressed to university. One student secured a Cambridge place, demonstrating pipeline to elite institutions. The practical focus on preparation for university is evident in the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), which sixth-form students undertake as independent research, and careers guidance that emphasises both Russell Group and specialist institutions.
England ranks and key metrics (where available)
A-Level A*-B
77.4%
% of students achieving grades A*-B
GCSE 9–7
46.95%
% of students achieving grades 9-7
Teaching across the college follows the National Curriculum in primary and GCSE years, with specialist teachers introduced progressively. In the Acorn Centre (Pre-Reception), teaching follows the Early Years Foundation Stage with specialist input in Music and Physical Education. The Prep School curriculum spans primary subjects with increasing specialism as pupils move toward Year 6. From Year 7 onwards, pupils study a broad curriculum including Modern and Classical Languages, Sciences (taught separately), History, Geography, Religious Studies, Design and Technology, Food and Information Technology, Music, Drama, and Physical Education. A specialised electronics laboratory provides hands-on learning in electronics from Year 9.
Teachers demonstrate secure subject knowledge and clear pedagogical structures. The 2022 ISI inspection noted that pupils achieve strong exam results surpassing expectations and demonstrate good progress. The school's approach balances traditional academic rigour with contemporary pedagogical methods; pupils are actively engaged in their learning rather than passive recipients. Class sizes in the Prep School range from 12 to 16; in the senior school, typical class sizes are 14-18 for core subjects and smaller for A-level sets. This allows meaningful teacher-pupil interaction without creating cloistered environments.
Learning Support provision identifies pupils requiring intervention and provides targeted assistance, including reading recovery programmes for those transitioning with weaker literacy backgrounds. The school's learning support team works collaboratively with classroom teachers to differentiate provision, ensuring pupils of all starting points make progress. Approximately 15% of pupils receive some form of additional learning support.
Of Year 11 students, approximately 75-80% progress into the school's sixth form, with additional external candidates joining. Entry to sixth form is contingent upon GCSE performance, typically requiring grade 6 (strong pass) in subjects intended at A-level, though negotiation occurs for pupils showing determination and growth. The sixth form numbers approximately 100-110 students across Years 12 and 13, creating a substantial cohort sufficient for breadth of subject choice whilst remaining small enough for pastoral attention.
In 2024, 79% of leavers progressed to university, with the remainder entering employment (10%) or further education (0%). The cohort size was 48, suggesting strong but not universal progression to higher education. The school works with a careers lead to prepare students for competitive applications, and university visits, guest lectures, and UCAS guidance are structured elements of sixth-form life. One student secured a Cambridge place in the measurement period, indicating access to elite institutions, though the school's primary focus is securing appropriate fit for individual pupils across the full spectrum of universities.
Notable recent destinations include University of Exeter (including music scholars), University of Warwick, and other Russell Group institutions. The arts feature prominently in leavers' choices, reflecting the school's strength in Drama, Music, and English. Students have secured places on specialized courses including Acting & Theatre Studies, Politics & International Relations, and Engineering.
Total Offers
1
Offer Success Rate: 50%
Cambridge
1
Offers
Oxford
—
Offers
The extracurricular programme is deliberately comprehensive and genuinely inclusive, with distinct offerings for participation, competition, and elite development.
Music is exceptionally well-resourced and embedded in school life. The Music Department provides instrumental or vocal tuition to over 120 pupils, with many preparing for ABRSM or other recognized qualifications. The school is itself an ABRSM examination centre, enabling pupils to sit examinations on-site. In the Senior School, four formal concerts are held annually, plus six informal lunchtime concerts; the Prep holds a teatime recital each term, an annual concert, and a Carol Service.
The biennial choir tour has visited internationally; in recent years, tours to Tuscany and Rome included performances at St Peter's Basilica in the Vatican and Florence Cathedral. The school supports multiple choral ensembles including the College Choir, Chamber Choir, and vocal groups at various levels. A Barbershop Quartet demonstrates the breadth of musical styles; individual voice lessons are offered throughout the school. Instrumentally, the school maintains a Brass Group, Wind Band, Jazz Band, and orchestral ensembles. The Music Department's investment in inclusive approaches means beginners are welcomed into performance groups from their first lessons, building confidence alongside technical skill.
Over 160 pupils across the college participate in Speech and Drama lessons through the LAMDA (London Academy for Music and Dramatic Arts) syllabus. The school is a registered LAMDA examination centre, with exam days held three times per year. Speech and Drama lessons develop public speaking, articulation, vocal modulation, and acting skills; pupils progress through graded qualifications from entry to advanced level.
Two major drama productions occur annually, with recent productions including Footloose (over 100 participants), Wendy and Peter (90 pupils), and a professional-standard adaptation of Twelfth Night set in New Orleans with double casts performing over four nights. The production processes include live orchestral accompaniment, professional lighting and scenic design, and involve specialists alongside student technicians. Year 1-6 pupils participate in termly showcases. The school's 1928-built College Theatre serves as the venue, adding atmospheric heritage. The Director of The Arts, Mandy Kesel (recently retired), shaped performing arts into a distinctive strength; her legacy continues through committed staff. Additionally, a Musical Theatre qualification combines Drama and Music teaching in a cross-disciplinary pathway.
Sport is central to school identity, with professional coaching staff including former professional athletes and international players. The main team sports are Rugby, Football, Netball, and Cricket, with additional options including Hockey, Athletics, Basketball, Badminton, Tennis, Gymnastics, and Squash. The Rugby programme is led by Rowland Winter (Director of Rugby), professional coach Mike Haywood, and Josh Sharp (Rugby Development Officer), supported by specialist coaches developing all ability levels. The Football programme is directed by a former professional (formerly playing for Ipswich Town, Bristol City, and Colchester United); Netball is headed by an internationally capped player (86 caps for Fiji, recent World Cup captain). Cricket, Hockey, and Athletics complete the core provision.
The school's approach emphasizes participation for all whilst supporting elite athletes. A Performance Sports pathway develops county and in England recognized players; a Dual Career programme allows ambitious athletes to balance sport with academic study; an Excellence in Sport scheme recognises achievement. Fixtures occur regularly, with inter-school competitions for all age groups and periodic international participation. The school hosts major festivals in Rugby, Netball, and Cricket, attracting teams from across the region. Physiotherapy services and pioneering return-to-play protocols underpin injury management. Several former pupils have progressed to county or professional sport.
The Art Department provides weekly clubs including Art Club, Sign Writing Club, and Set Design (Senior) and Drawing Club (Prep). Pupils compete to design the official St Joseph's Christmas Card and Drama production programme covers. Young Enterprise schemes encourage entrepreneurial thinking; recently, student companies competed at Young Enterprise Fair events with commercially viable products.
The school offers UK Mathematics Trust challenges and competitions; STEM-related activities and Science Week competitions engage the wider cohort. A specialized electronics laboratory enables practical physics learning. Computer Science is taught as a distinct subject from Year 7, with coding and robotics clubs available.
The house system provides leadership opportunities through House Captains; a Head Student team (five pupils) leads whole-school initiatives, including legacy projects such as the 130th-anniversary art installation. Student Council provides formal channels for pupil voice. Duke of Edinburgh Award participation extends from Bronze (GCSE-age) through Gold (sixth form), with expeditions to destinations including the Alps (biennial ski trips) and outdoor education embedded in PE provision.
Young Enterprise, Model United Nations (MUN), debating, book clubs, and reading groups appeal to academically-focused pupils. The school explicitly states that comprehensive participation is encouraged; approximately 80% of pupils engage in at least one regular extracurricular activity. Trips and expeditions diversify experience: overseas destinations in recent years include Uganda, Italy, Iceland, and New York; residential trips occur at Year 6 and sixth form.
Fees for 2025-26 are transparent and positioned as modest relative to the independent sector:
All fees are inclusive of VAT and payable termly or in ten monthly installments. Registration fees are £100 (Pre-Reception) or £120 (Reception-Year 13). The school manages costs to maintain fees below market rate for comparable independent schools in the region.
Means-tested financial assistance is available for entry into the Senior School (Years 7-13), with the school typically offering approximately 25% of families some level of support. Applications are assessed independently by Bursary Assessment Associates. Deadlines for September 2026 entry are 21 November 2025 (Years 7-10) and 31 October 2025 (Year 12). The school also provides fee assistance for families experiencing financial difficulties after a child has begun.
Families with three or more children at the school receive 15% discount on fees for the youngest child (while all siblings remain enrolled).
Up to 15 hours of government-funded nursery hours are available for three and four-year-olds on eligible days (Tuesday and Thursday). The school participates in childcare voucher schemes and Tax-Free Childcare.
*Bursaries may be available for eligible families.
Basis: annual
Key entry points are Pre-Reception (age 3), Reception (age 4/5), Year 7 (age 11/12), Year 9 (age 13/14), and Year 12 (age 16/17). The school operates a selective admissions policy with oversubscription at all levels, though no formal catchment boundary exists; pupils are drawn from across Reading and beyond.
For Year 7 entry, the process begins with registration by October of Year 6. A non-refundable registration fee of £120 (including VAT) is required. Candidates then complete entrance examinations in English, Mathematics, and reasoning (InCAS assessment), typically administered in January. The school emphasizes that these tests assess genuine ability rather than coachability; whilst some external tutoring occurs, the school explicitly states that intensive preparation is not necessary. Following examinations, satisfactory school references are required. Offers are issued by February, with acceptance by March.
For Year 9 and Year 12 entry, similar processes apply with slightly adjusted timings. The school offers flexibility for mid-year entry subject to place availability. Open mornings occur throughout the academic year; prospective families can schedule personalized visits with pupil guides and one-to-one conversations with the Head, Mrs Stotesbury.
Entry to Year 12 typically requires a minimum grade 6 in intended A-level subjects, though the school negotiates flexibly for pupils demonstrating commitment and growth trajectory. The Head of Sixth Form, Mrs A Maxwell, oversees transition and pastoral oversight of sixth-form life.
With approximately 550 pupils across the entire school and age cohorts of 60-70 pupils in primary and secondary years, the school is considerably smaller than large comprehensive secondaries, reinforcing the family atmosphere and individual attention described by pupils and parents.
The 2022 ISI inspection confirmed that pupils show excellent responsibility for their own behavior and support peers positively; welfare and safety standards are met. Parents consistently describe exceptional pastoral care as a defining feature.
Pastoral oversight is structured through form tutors who know pupils individually and provide daily contact. The house system creates secondary pastoral support; house staff oversee pastoral wellbeing and liaise with academic staff. A dedicated pastoral team, led by designated leads, handles safeguarding, bullying prevention, and pupil concerns. A school counselor visits weekly, providing confidential support for pupils navigating emotional or personal challenges.
For pupils requiring learning support, a SENCO coordinates assessment and intervention. The school works collaboratively with external agencies (speech and language therapists, educational psychologists, etc.) to ensure pupils with identified needs receive appropriate support. The school is inclusive in approach, welcoming pupils with diagnosed disabilities and learning differences.
8:50am to 3:20pm (Senior), with variations for Prep and Acorn Centre.
Extended day provision operates from 7:45am (breakfast club) until 6:00pm (after-school club). Holiday clubs run during all school holidays for primary-aged pupils (ages 3-13).
The school's estate includes specialist teaching spaces: science laboratories, food technology suites, design and technology workshops, art studios, music practice rooms, and a gymnasium. An indoor heated swimming pool is available for PE and swimming tuition. The College Theatre (1928 origins) hosts drama and musical productions. Outdoor space includes playing fields and tennis courts.
The school operates a minibus service for families; pupils can also access Reading's public transport network. The school is centrally located within Reading, making accessibility reasonable from across the town and surrounding areas.
Modest but Genuine Fees: At £19,047 per annum for Years 7-13, fees are reasonable relative to comparable independent schools but represent a significant commitment for most families. Financial assistance is available but limited; families should verify affordability and explore bursary options early in the admissions process.
Selective but Not Highly Exclusive: Entry is selective, meaning pupils arrive with demonstrated ability in English, Mathematics, and reasoning. However, the school explicitly welcomes pupils from state primaries and maintains a genuinely mixed-ability intake within this higher starting point. Families should be realistic about entrance likelihood, but the school is not restricted to those coached for entrance.
Catholic Identity: The school's Catholic character is genuine and pervasive. Daily prayer, regular Masses, explicit religious education, and service in Catholic communities are integral. Families of other faiths are genuinely welcome, but should understand that children will participate in Catholic practices and teaching. The school's approach translates Catholic values into universal virtues, but religious observance is non-negotiable.
Size and Community Feel: At approximately 550 pupils, St Joseph's is small by secondary standards. For families valuing individual attention and close-knit community, this is a strength. For families wanting anonymity or vast extracurricular choice, larger schools may suit better. The single-site all-through model is distinctive and appeals to families seeking seamless transitions; some parents prefer separation of primary and secondary phases.
Distance and Catchment: No formal catchment exists. Pupils are drawn from across Reading and beyond. Families should verify accessible travel routes and commuting time, as distance to school can be variable.
St Joseph's College is a genuinely good independent school offering solid academic outcomes, exceptional pastoral care, and a remarkable breadth of extracurricular opportunity within a small, family-oriented community. The admission to sixth form confirms the strength of academic provision; the professional standards of music and drama production evidence serious institutional commitment to the arts; the coaching expertise in sport reflects significant investment. For families seeking selective independent education with strong values, explicit Catholic identity, and modest fees relative to the independent sector, St Joseph's merits serious consideration. The school will suit families comfortable with Catholic practice, valuing community over anonymity, and seeking a school that develops the whole person, academically rigorous, creatively alive, athletically engaged, and morally grounded. The main challenge is securing a place; competitive entry means careful planning and realistic assessment of entrance likelihood. For families who are admitted, the educational experience is generous, the pastoral care is demonstrably strong, and the community is one in which children and families genuinely flourish.
Yes. The ISI inspection in 2022 rated the quality of pupils' academic and other achievements as good. Pupils achieve results surpassing expectations from their starting points. GCSE grades placed 47% in the top band (9-7) and A-level saw 77% achieve A*-B grades. The school ranks in the top 10% in England for GCSE and top 10% for A-level (FindMySchool rankings). One student secured a Cambridge place in 2024. The school is distinguished by exceptional pastoral care, strong safeguarding, and excellent behavior and attitudes among pupils.
Tuition fees for 2025-26 are £14,624-£15,828 per annum for primary (Years 3-6) and £19,047 per annum for secondary (Years 7-13), inclusive of VAT. Pre-Reception (Acorn Centre) fees range from £9,281-£12,190 depending on sessions. A non-refundable registration fee of £100-£120 applies. Government-funded nursery hours (15 hours per week) are available for three and four-year-olds. The school is committed to keeping fees below market rate; approximately 25% of families receive some means-tested financial assistance. A sibling discount of 15% applies for third and subsequent children.
Entry is selective at all points (Pre-Reception, Reception, Year 7, Year 9, Year 12), with admissions determined by entrance examinations, school references, and availability of places. For Year 7, candidates complete papers in English, Mathematics, and cognitive reasoning; the school emphasizes that genuine ability is assessed rather than coachability. The school attracts strong candidates from across Reading and beyond; families should verify they are comfortable with selective entry and realistic about individual chances. Open mornings and personalized visits allow families to assess fit before committing to the application process.
Music is exceptional. Over 120 pupils receive instrumental or vocal tuition (ABRSM or other recognized qualifications). The school holds four formal concerts annually plus six informal lunchtime concerts (senior); multiple choirs including College Choir and Chamber Choir; Brass Group, Wind Band, Jazz Band, and orchestral ensembles. The biennial choir tour visits international destinations including Italy (Tuscany, Rome, Vatican). Speech and Drama is followed by 160 pupils through LAMDA qualification, with exams held three times yearly. Two major drama productions annually feature professional standards of production, design, lighting, and sound, with recent shows including Footloose (100+ participants) and Twelfth Night. A Musical Theatre qualification combines Drama and Music teaching.
The main sports are Rugby, Football, Netball, and Cricket, coached by former professional athletes and international-level coaches. Additional sports include Hockey, Athletics, Basketball, Badminton, Tennis, Gymnastics, and Squash. The school offers participation opportunities for all abilities alongside elite pathways for aspiring county and professional athletes. A Performance Sports programme develops ambitious players; a Dual Career pathway allows balancing sport with academics. The school hosts major festivals in Rugby, Netball, and Cricket. A trained physiotherapist is available; return-to-play protocols are pioneering. Several alumni have progressed to county or professional sport. Inter-school fixtures occur throughout the year.
The school campus houses the Victorian and Edwardian original buildings alongside modern extensions. Key facilities include specialist science laboratories, food technology suites, design and technology workshops, art studios, music practice rooms, and a gymnasium. An indoor heated swimming pool is used for PE and swimming tuition. The College Theatre (dating to 1928 extensions, originally a chapel) hosts drama and musical productions. Outdoor space includes playing fields and tennis courts. The Prep School is a purpose-designed 1988 building. A dedicated Early Years Centre (Acorn Centre) provides learning environments for Pre-Reception. The estate is spacious, allowing separation of year groups and movement between buildings without congestion.
St Joseph's College is an explicitly Catholic school, founded by the Sisters of St Marie Madeleine Postel in 1894. The school's motto, Optima Deo (My Best for God), reflects the De La Salle educational philosophy. Daily prayer, regular Masses, explicit religious education, and integration of Catholic values throughout the curriculum are integral features. However, the school is genuinely welcoming to families of other faiths; the school's philosophy explicitly states that Catholic values are embraced by "families of all faiths and backgrounds." Non-Catholic pupils participate in school Masses and religious education, understanding the Catholic perspective. Families uncomfortable with this level of religious observance should consider alternatives; for families comfortable with Catholic practice, the faith integration is a strength, not a burden.
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