Deputy Head Welcome

A Welcome from our Deputy Head

 

Welcome to Read School Senior School

Thank you for your interest in Read School. Choosing the right school for your child is one of the
most important decisions a family can make, and I am delighted to welcome you to our Senior
School community.

At Read School, we are proud to offer an education that combines academic ambition with
exceptional pastoral care. Set within a beautiful rural campus in the heart of North Yorkshire, our
school is renowned for its warm family ethos, strong community spirit and commitment to helping
every child fulfil their potential.

One of the greatest strengths of Read School is that every pupil is truly known as an individual.
Small class sizes, averaging around 12 pupils and never exceeding 18, allow teachers to build
strong relationships with young people, tailoring support and challenge to meet their needs. This
personalised approach creates an environment in which pupils feel confident, valued and
inspired to succeed.

Our Senior School provides a seamless educational journey from Year 7 through to Year 13,
preparing pupils for university, apprenticeships and future careers. We offer a broad and
balanced curriculum that combines traditional academic subjects with opportunities for creativity,
leadership, innovation and personal development.
Learning takes place in modern, well-equipped classrooms supported by excellent technology
across the school site. As part of our commitment to digital learning, every pupil from Year 6 to
Year 9 is provided with their own Chromebook through our 1:1 device programme. These
devices enable pupils to access resources, collaborate effectively, organise their work and
develop the digital skills required for success in an ever-changing world. Technology enhances
learning while complementing the excellent teaching and strong relationships that remain at the
heart of a Read School education.

Beyond the classroom, our 17-acre campus provides extensive opportunities for sport, recreation
and outdoor learning. Pupils benefit from outstanding facilities, including a sports hall, all-weather
Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) and expansive playing fields used for rugby, football, cricket,
netball and rounders. Whether competing at a high level or simply enjoying participation, every
pupil is encouraged to develop confidence, resilience and teamwork through sport.
Education at Read School extends far beyond the academic timetable. Our extensive co-
curricular programme offers opportunities in music, drama, art, cooking, leadership, sport,
academic enrichment and many other activities. Pupils are encouraged to discover new
interests, develop existing talents and build the confidence to explore opportunities beyond their
comfort zone.

Character development is central to our philosophy. Many pupils participate in the Combined
Cadet Force (CCF), joining either the RAF or Army section and taking part in activities ranging
from leadership exercises and fieldcraft to flying opportunities and adventurous training. Pupils
can also work towards the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, developing independence, perseverance
and teamwork while earning highly respected Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards.
The transition into Senior School is an exciting milestone and we work closely with families to
ensure pupils feel confident and supported from day one. We welcome children from our own
Prep School and a wide range of local primary schools, with outreach activities, induction events
and taster days helping pupils settle quickly into school life.

As Deputy Head, one of my most important responsibilities is overseeing the wellbeing and
pastoral development of our pupils. Our dedicated pastoral team is committed to ensuring that
every child feels safe, supported and able to thrive. We believe that happy pupils learn best, and
we take great pride in the strength of the relationships between staff, pupils and families.
Read School is also a genuinely diverse and internationally minded community. Pupils and staff
come from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures, with multiple languages spoken across the
school. Our thriving boarding community enriches school life, broadening horizons and helping
young people develop a global outlook while forming lasting friendships.

We are equally committed to supporting pupils with additional learning needs. Our experienced
Learning Support team works closely with families, teachers and pupils to provide personalised
support that enables every child to achieve success and grow in confidence.

Above all, Read School is a place where young people are encouraged to aim high, embrace
challenges and become the very best version of themselves. We combine academic excellence
with kindness, opportunity and a strong sense of belonging, creating an environment in which
pupils can flourish both in school and beyond.

I hope this introduction gives you a flavour of life at Read School. We would be delighted to
welcome you and your family to visit us and experience our community first-hand.