Leighton Park School
Reading, Berkshire, England
Leighton Park School
Reading, Berkshire, England
Overview
Leighton Park is a co-educational school for boarding and day students set in over 60 acres of beautiful parkland just south of Reading town centre and within 30 minutes of Heathrow. Founded in 1890 as a Quaker establishment, the school maintains an ethos and values that instill a deep understanding of what it means to be part of a community based on equality and respect, whilst inspiring its pupils to become creative, active and independent learners.
At a glance
Academic
The broad curriculum offers 20+ GCSE options and a choice between A Levels and the IB Diploma in the Sixth Form. The Sciences, Mathematics and the Creative Arts are popular strengths of the school. Teaching staff build strong relationships with pupils and support is given for EAL and IELTS exams. On average 60% of A Level results are A*/B and half of IB students achieve 35 points or more. Typically 95% of students go on to higher education with half progressing to Russell Group Universities.
Boarding
The 5 boarding houses, each led by a housemistress/master and ably supported by a team of tutors and staff, provide a relaxed 'home' where international cultures are shared by well-integrated boarders and day pupils. Younger pupils share rooms and Sixth Formers have single study-bedrooms whilst girls and boys share social and recreational spaces. House spirit is strong, with regular competitions. Weekend activities range from sports clubs to shopping trips or skiing.
Sports
All pupils are given opportunities in sport and are encouraged to embrace the values of teamwork, communication and well-being. Facilities include an all-weather pitch, 22 tennis courts, a swimming pool, a weights room and new cardiovascular and strength/conditioning studios. Teams and individuals compete in a wide range of county, regional and national fixtures whilst 12 specialist coaches assist the passionate in-house staff. An Advanced Performer Programme (APP) supports talented athletes.
Creative arts
Music and Drama flourish with over 260 individual weekly music lessons and many ensembles to join, as well as 2 annual productions and numerous smaller-scale concerts in the Main Hall theatre. The Art Department has facilities for textiles, pottery and painting whilst Design Technology boasts a laser cutter, a CNC router and a 3D printer. A new Music & Media Centre will include a 'live lounge' for recording and broadcasts alongside a media room with a green screen and cinema system.
Did you know?
- Following the fundamental Quaker value of equality and mutual respect, pupils refer to the teaching staff by their first names at all times.
- With just 4 boys in the school when it opened in 1890, the headteacher was still keen to have a school football team. Staff members played on the team for the next 10 years!
