Reading School 11 Plus Guide
At a Glance
Assessment: FSCE
Fees Type: Free
Boarding: Day school, Boarding
Admissions: Boys Only
Places per year: 150
Competition: Medium
Ofsted Rating: Outstanding
Reading School
Reading School is a prestigious grammar school for boys aged 11 to 18, based in Reading, Berkshire. Founded in the 12th century, it is one of the oldest schools in England and is renowned for its academic excellence, strong traditions, and close-knit community.
The school places equal importance on scholarship, leadership, and character development. Pupils are encouraged to excel academically while also exploring a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sport, music, debating, coding, and community service.
Reading School regularly ranks among the top grammar schools in the UK, with many students progressing to Russell Group universities, including Oxford and Cambridge. Each year, 150 Year 7 places are available, with admission based on performance in the Reading School 11 Plus entrance exam.
Location & Contact Info
Contact details, address and parking information for Reading School
Ofsted Report
Ofsted report breakdown for Reading School
Exam Format
Learn about the 11 Plus exam format at Reading School
Preparing for the 11 Plus
Help your child prepare with tips, exam papers, and featured tuition agencies
Key Dates
All key dates and application information for Reading School
How to Apply
Information on the application process for Reading School
FAQs
Frequently asked questions and answers for Reading School
Schools Nearby
Search for other schools in the local area
Reading School Key Information
At 11 Plus Hero, we believe that finding the right information at the right time is essential for smooth exam preparation. Therefore, we have compiled everything you need to know about the admissions process, entrance test and key contacts to make it easier for you to plan effectively.
School Address
Full Address:
Reading School41-43 London Road
Reading
RG1 5BN
Contact Information
Parking in the school
There is limited on-site parking. Public transport or nearby on-street parking is recommended on test days and open events.
Additional parking off site
- Royal Berkshire Hospital, Multi-Storey car park (480 spaces), Craven Road, Reading, RG1 5AN.
- Street parking available at Erleigh Road, Reading, RG1 5PG.
Reading School Ofsted Report
Quick Summary
Overall rating: Reading School is rated Outstanding in all areas, reflecting exceptional standards throughout.
Academic strength: Pupils achieve excellent results, supported by expert teaching and high expectations.
Teaching and curriculum: The curriculum is broad, ambitious and expertly taught, encouraging deep learning and curiosity.
Behaviour and culture: Behaviour is exemplary. Pupils are respectful, motivated and show strong leadership and character.
Leadership and safeguarding: Leadership is inspiring and highly effective, with strong safeguarding and a caring school culture.
Reading School Exam Format
The Reading School 11 Plus is set by FSCE and includes four different papers.
Test Overview
The Reading School 11 Plus, set by FSCE, includes four papers covering Art & Design, Computing, Design & Technology, English, Geography, History, Languages, Maths, Music, Physical Education, Science. The papers could be sat in any order and only test content taught up to the end of Year 5.
Adventure Paper
Any subject listed above, with Multiple Choice Answer options.
Beacon Paper
Any subject listed above, where you respond with Short Written Answers.
Compass Paper
Any subject listed above, with Multiple Choice Answer options.
Discovery Paper
A paper which will require a Creative Response.
Reading School 11 Plus Assessment Criteria
| English | Maths | Verbal Reasoning | Non-Verbal Reasoning | Additional |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Pass Mark
All tests are age-standardised to ensure fairness across applicants of different birth months. There is no published pass mark, but higher overall scores increase the chance of securing a place.
Catchment Area
For day students, the catchment area priority is based on home location and distance from the school. There is no catchment area requirement for boarding applicants. The designated area covers specific postcodes in and around Reading. If two or more applicants achieve the same score, distance from the school is used as a tie-breaker.
Additional Eligibility
To be eligible for a place, candidates must reach the required standard across all papers. When more applicants qualify than there are 150 available places, the following oversubscription criteria apply:
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Looked-after and previously looked-after children who meet the qualifying standard.
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Applicants eligible for Pupil Premium, living within the designated area.
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Other applicants within the designated area, ranked by total standardised score.
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Applicants living outside the designated area, ranked by score.
Click here to view the full Reading School admissions policy.
Preparing for the 11 Plus Test at Reading School
Because the Reading School exam is school-set, preparation should go beyond standard GL or CEM practice. Recommended strategies include:
Useful Tips
Start Early
Begin preparation in Year 4 or the start of Year 5. This allows plenty of time for steady progress without creating too much pressure.
Use Exam Papers
Work through timed exam papers together to build familiarity with the question style and develop exam technique.
Target Weak Areas
Keep track of their performance and focus extra time on any topics or question types they find more difficult.
Encourage Daily Reading
A regular reading habit helps expand vocabulary, improve comprehension and boost analytical thinking – all vital for the 11 Plus.
Make Use of Online Resources
Digital learning tools can provide personalised practice and clear feedback to make study time more effective and engaging.
Best Chance of Success
Keeping preparation steady, organised and encouraging will help your child feel confident and well-prepared when exam day arrives.
11 Plus Mock Exams in Your Area
We’re currently working on setting up a network of local test centres to offer in-person 11 Plus mock exams that closely match the format used by Reading School. These sessions will provide a valuable opportunity for your child to practise under real exam conditions, helping to build confidence and improve performance. Although this service isn’t available just yet, you can register your interest by completing the form below. We’ll get in touch as soon as mock exams become available in your area.
Key Events for Admission to Reading School
It is essential to be aware of key dates and deadlines which relate to entry to Reading School. 11 Plus Hero understands the importance of this and is here to help. Listed below are the dates of events which prospective parents need to be aware of to give your child the best chance of entry.
Registration Opens
Registration Closes
Sporting aptitude assessment
11+ exam date
11+ results released
CAF Application Deadline
National Offer Day
Reading School Application Process
To apply for a Year 7 place at Reading School, families need to complete both the school’s registration form and the local authority’s application process.
Admissions Policy 2026
Make sure you read the Reading School Admissions Policy PDF to ensure you and your child understand the process and eligibility criteria.
View Admissions PolicyEntrance Test Entry Form
Complete the online registration form on the school’s website between April and June 2025. This is required for your child to take Stage 1 of the entrance exam.
Visit School WebsiteCommon Application Form (CAF)
This form must be submitted to your local authority, with Reading School listed as one of your preferences. The CAF deadline is 31st October 2025. Both forms must be completed, failure to submit either will result in an incomplete application.
Reading School FAQs
Apply through your local authority’s Common Application Form and register for the FSCE 11 Plus via the Reading School website before the deadline.
The exam includes three FSCE papers: two covering English and Maths, and one Creative Writing paper, which is only marked if candidates meet the required standard in the first two.
Entry is extremely competitive, with far more applicants than the 150 available Year 7 places. Only top-scoring candidates in the entrance test are offered places.
Yes. Reading School has a defined priority area based on local postcodes. Applicants living within this area are given preference when scores are equal.