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Read's History

Founded on Vision in 1667

Read School owes its origins to the legacy and generosity of Charles Reade, whose will in 1667 declared an endowment to establish a free school in the parish of Drax.

His founding vision was ambitious yet grounded: to provide local children with a comprehensive education, teaching them to “read, write and cast accounts,” alongside foundational instruction in Latin, Greek, Hebrew, and modern languages as needed.

The Drax Grammar School Era (1902–1967)

For over six decades in the 20th century, the institution operated as Drax Grammar School, a voluntary aided grammar school serving generations of families across the Selby and Goole areas.

In 1967, following local educational restructuring, the school Governors faced a critical turning point: to close the historic institution or embrace self-determination. Choosing the path of independence, the school recommitted to its founding principles and reclaimed its name: Read School.

Pride in Tradition & Service

Over the centuries, Read School pupils have built a proud tradition of service and citizenship:

  • Cadet Heritage: Founded in 1914, the Read School Combined Cadet Force (CCF) is one of the oldest contingent cadet forces in the United Kingdom, instilling leadership, discipline, and outdoor resilience.

  • Remembrance: Our vibrant School History Club keeps our local heritage alive, while annual Remembrance ceremonies honour the 51 former pupils who made the ultimate sacrifice in World War I and World War II.

Read School Today

Centuries after Charles Reade’s founding gift, Read School remains a respected cornerstone of the local community. Today, we are a thriving, co-educational independent day and boarding school welcoming pupils aged 4 to 18.

  • Academic Excellence: Broad curriculum offering a wide array of GCSE and A-Level disciplines.

  • Holistic Development: Extensive co-curricular programmes spanning competitive sports, music, drama, CCF, and outdoor adventure.

  • A Thriving Community: A close-knit cohort of 240 pupils, preparing to celebrate 360 years of educational heritage in 2027.

Key Historical Milestones

 

Year     Event / Milestone
1667     Founded through the endowment of Charles Reade in Drax
1914     Read School Combined Cadet Force (CCF) established
1902–1967     Operated as Drax Grammar School
1967     Governors vote for independence; school re-named Read School
2027     Celebrating 360 years of continuous education

 

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