Padworth College

Welcome from the Principal

Padworth College was founded in 1963 by Oxford University tutor, Peter Fison and a group of Oxford dons whose vision was to bring Oxford’s educational philosophy of tutorial teaching to school-level education.

At Padworth, we provide the foundations for independent learners who develop a passion for life and learning.  Every student is an individual, but it is also important for them to work as a team player, whether it is on the sports field, during a walk in the countryside, in the classroom, or participating in drama or music.  Our classroom at Padworth operates in every environment and every day of the week.

The staff at Padworth are committed and caring.  They strive to support each and every student to achieve the very best.  Today, we all live and operate in a global environment.  Padworth provides a fantastic international experience for life.

I look forward to welcoming you to the college.

Lorraine Atkins
Principal

About Padworth

Founded in 1963 by Oxford university graduates, Padworth College specialises in GCSE, A Level and University Foundation programmes.  Padworth is located close to the city of Reading and just 50 miles from central London.

Set within an impressive 12 acre campus, the College welcomes both boarding and day students, giving all students the opportunity to develop independence and self-confidence within the security and care of our outstanding boarding community.

Padworth College offers a unique educational experience and provides a stepping stone between traditional school education and university studies.  Students are closely supervised and supported, but also learn how to study independently and to develop study skills that will allow them to thrive in a university environment.

  • A strong focus on the development of independent learning to facilitate the transition from A Level to university.
  • A commitment to realising academic potential and finding the right career pathways for the individual.
  • Small class sizes, average 8-10.
  • A diverse international community – the student community is made up of up to 30 nationalities.
  • Subject combinations are flexible, with students offered advice on optimal study plans at the point of admission.
  • Oxbridge tutorial style education with Personal Tutors supporting university applications.
  • Medical and Oxbridge Preparation Programmes provided at no extra cost.
  • A traditional British curriculum with a modern approach and global outlook.
  • The opportunity to board on a full-time, weekly or flexible basis with high quality pastoral support promoting independence and aiding the transition to university.
  • A high level of contact between staff, parents, and students.
  • Personalised learning plans with regular testing, focusing on each student’s individual talents and strengths.
  • Extensive sports and extra-curricular activities.
  • Excellent track record of placing students in leading UK universities.

The College offers a range of study options, including:

  • One year I/GCSE
  • Two year I/GCSE
  • Two year A Level
  • 18 month A Level
  • The NCUK International Foundation Year programme, with guaranteed progression.  Pathways include; Business, Engineering, Humanities and Science
  • Study Abroad Programme, which provides an opportunity for international students to experience boarding for up to one term.

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