Kendrick School
Reading, Berkshire · RG1 5BN
Kendrick School is one of England's highest-performing state selective schools for girls, located in central Reading and consistently rated Outstanding by Ofsted. Its ethos centres on the trio of 'Lead, Inspire, Make a Difference', fostering academically driven young women who are also encouraged to be kind, socially aware and community-minded. The school draws exceptionally able girls from across Berkshire and beyond through the super-selective 11+ process, producing results that rival many fee-paying schools. Despite its academic intensity, Kendrick has a notably warm and inclusive culture, with strong student voice structures and a genuine commitment to wellbeing.
- →Consistently Outstanding Ofsted rating and top-tier A-level and GCSE results placing it among the best state schools nationally
- →Free at the point of entry — offering a grammar school education of independent-school quality without fees
- →Strong student leadership, wellbeing and community culture that goes beyond pure academics
Who thrives here
Highly academic, intellectually curious girls who enjoy being stretched and challenged but also want to belong to a close-knit, supportive community. Girls who thrive on structured ambition but also want space to lead, create and contribute beyond the classroom will flourish here.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
London Road
Reading, Berkshire
RG1 5BN
Nearest stations
Notable alumni
Theresa May
Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
Rachel de Souza
Children's Commissioner for England
Recent investment
Frequently asked questions
How much does Kendrick School cost?
Kendrick School is a state grammar school, so there are no tuition fees — places are free and allocated by the 11-plus exam and the school’s admissions criteria.
How do you get into Kendrick School?
Kendrick School admits pupils at 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by 11+ Selective Examination. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
What are Kendrick School's exam results?
At Kendrick School, 51.4% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 88.8% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is Kendrick School a boarding school?
Kendrick School is a day school in Reading and does not offer boarding.
What is Kendrick School's latest inspection rating?
Ofsted rated Kendrick School “Outstanding” (2022).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Exceptional academic standards and teaching quality that genuinely stretch able girls
✓Warm, supportive community culture — parents frequently note the school produces 'well-rounded, kind human beings' not just high achievers
✓Outstanding value as a free selective school delivering results comparable to top independent schools
✓Strong student voice and leadership opportunities that build confidence and character
Common concerns
!The super-selective admissions process and competitive academic culture can create pressure; some parents note anxiety levels can be high particularly around exam periods
!Limited on-site sports and arts facilities compared to well-resourced independent schools
!High demand for places means the 11+ process is extremely stressful for families across Reading