Welcome to Padworth
I am delighted that you are considering Padworth College for your studies.
Each year, we welcome students who are striving for an outstanding education, where they develop as individuals, while enjoying the sense of belonging that all who live and work at Padworth feel.
Our students are united by one ambition: to enter leading universities across the UK and other key destinations.
Padworth is proud to have a vibrant and multicultural community that supports every individual to be the best they can be. Strong pastoral care ensures that we can support their individual educational journeys.
At Padworth, we provide the foundations for independent learning, and students develop a passion for life and education.
Our boarding and teaching staff are approachable, friendly, and supportive. It is our aim to provide a positive, caring, family-oriented, and safe environment in which each individual is valued and respected for who they are.
Today, we all live and operate in a global environment, and learning the skills to thrive in that environment is critical to the future success of young people. Pursuing your studies at Padworth will provide you with a fantastic international experience for life.
Please contact us to arrange a visit and experience Padworth College for yourself.
Crispin Dawson Principal
Study at Padworth
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 schoollevel education.
Padworth College strives to uphold the innovative vision of our founders to offer a truly unique educational experience –based on small tutorial style classes.
It is fundamental for our students to have a firm commitment to community values and teamwork, whilst being individuals who are open-minded, reflective and tolerant. We seek to be inclusive, respecting all faiths and promoting responsible and active citizenship
Our aims are to build self-discipline, selfconfidence, and to develop initiative and communication skills in our students.
The Padworth ethos is that we strive to unlock the academic and personal potential of each student and encourage them to reach their ambitions.
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 and foundation programmes to university.
A commitment to realising academic potential and finding the right career pathways for the individual.
Small class sizes (average 8-10) for optimum learning and to encourage student-teacher interaction.
A diverse international community, with the student body made up of up to 30 nationalities.
Personalised learning plans and subject combinations with regular testing, leading to focused target setting for each individual student.
Excellent track record of placing students in leading UK universities.
Set within an impressive and safe 12 acre campus, close to the university town of Reading and less than an hour from central London.
A vibrant, diverse and supportive Boarding community that encourages independence, fosters respect, and promotes personal growth.
Padworth’s Five Virtues
Our five virtues are: Padworth College is here to:
TO BE KIND
Develop outstanding people.
In a community of belonging.
To achieve individual excellence.
TO BE A TEAM PLAYER
TO BE ENGAGED
TO BE REFLECTIVE
TO BE SELF-DISCIPLINED
Academic Programmes
PROGRAMME
Padworth Preparation Programme
AGE
For international students; minimum one term and up to one year 14-17
Two year I/GCSE Course Years 10-11 From 14+
One year I/GCSE Programme Year 11 15-16
Two year A Level Course Years 12-13
Up to 4 subjects; September start 16-18
18-month, five term A Level Course Years 12-13
Up to 3 subjects; January start 16-18
Padworth Business Access Programme Year 13
For international students; September start 17-18
NCUK International Foundation Year Programme Year 13
For international students; September start 17-18
Study Abroad Programme
For international students; minimum 4 weeks and up to one term 14-17
Padworth Summer School
The summer of a lifetime; July - August 13-17
Padworth Preparation Programme
Our Padworth Preparation Programme consists of intensive English language tuition and study skills support for international students who need to improve their English before enrolling on our GCSE, A Level and NCUK International Foundation Year courses. Developed in conjunction with Bishopstrow College, this programme will develop all the key skills and learning needed before moving onto their next phase of education.
Dependent on your level of English language and academic ability, the Padworth Preparation Programme can be taught for one, two or three terms.
Alongside English as an Additional Language, you will study Mathematics, Science, Geography, History, Business, Sports and Personal Health and Education (PSHE).
FEATURES
Age: 14-17
Level 1: Minimum English Language Level
IELTS 3.5 (for September entry)
IELTS 4 (for January entry)
IELTS 4.5 (For April entry)
Level 2: Minimum English Language Level
IELTS 4 (for September entry)
IELTS 4.5 (for January entry)
IELTS 5 (For April entry)
Compulsory Subjects
English as an additional language, Mathematics, Science, Geography, Business, History, PE and PSHE
Academic Study
30 hours of academic tuition, plus 8 hours of supervised study (‘prep’) after the school day.
Padworth Preparation Programme
Two Year I/GCSE Programme
FEATURES
Age: From 14+
Minimum English Language Level: IELTS 4.5
Compulsory Subjects: English Language, English Literature (native English speakers), Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry and Physics (Double Science Award)
Optional Subjects: English as a Second Language or History, Art or Geography, Computer Science or Business Studies
Academic Study:
30 hours of academic tuition, including enrichment studies, plus 5-10 hours of supervised study (‘prep’) after the school day
Regular exam based assessments, leading to interventions to support student learning
GCSEs represent the first step on the pathway towards a UK university. Padworth College’s GCSE programme is taught over a one or two year period, commencing in September.
TWO YEAR I/GCSE COURSE
Students follow the standard curriculum, incorporating up to 10 different subjects.
At Padworth, the classes are small compared to other schools, so I feel more involved and it is easier to ask questions during lessons. The subject teachers and my classmates ensure a positive atmosphere, allowing me to focus on my studies and free time. This has enabled me to work hard and play hard!”
Sunny from China King’s College London – Biomedical Science
One Year I/GCSE Programme
Our One Year I/GCSE Programme provides excellent preparation for entry to A Level study either at Padworth College or other British schools.
Students study five I/GCSE subjects, following a Science Pathway or Humanities Pathway.
For both programmes, students also have five hours of sports and activities each week, as well as optional weekend excursions. Formal external examinations take place at the end of the Summer Term.
For international students, EAL lessons are built into the students’ timetable (included in fees).
FEATURES
Age: 15-16
Minimum English Language
Level
IELTS 5
Core Subjects
English as a First Language or English as a Second Language and Mathematics
Science Pathway Subjects
Chemistry, Physics and Biology or Art
Humanities Pathway Subjects
Business Studies, Geography and History or Art
Academic Study
30 hours of academic tuition, including enrichment studies, plus 7 hours of supervised study (‘prep’) after the school day
Weekly Assessment
Designed to ensure that revision is continuous and cumulative
A Levels
FEATURES
Age: 16-18
Minimum English Language Level
CEFR Level B2 (IELTS 5.5)
Subjects
Biology, Business Studies, Chemistry, Economics, English Literature, Fine Art, Further Mathematics, Geography, Graphic Communication, History, Mathematics, Physics, Politics, Psychology, Sociology
Academic Study
Individual subjects are offered at five hours per subject per week, with an additional five hours per week allocated to IELTS, if required. In addition, students must commit 5-10 hours each week to prep, after the school day
Weekly Assessment
Designed to ensure that revision is continuous and cumulative
Our A Level programme is taught over two years (September start) and 18-months (January start). There is also the option for students to transfer to Padworth for the final year of A Levels, provided there is alignment with subjects studied in Year 12.
All students take a ‘Study Skills’ course during the Autumn Term in Year 12 and they may also be able to pursue the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) in Year 12. External examinations take place at the end of the course.
The weekly timetable also includes the Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHE) programme and PE.
International students with an IELTS score below 6.5 overall must join the IELTS course for the duration of their first academic year. This is timetabled alongside A Level lessons.
Padworth Business Access Programme
The Padworth Business Access Programme is a one-year course with a focus on business studies, allowing fast track access to universities around the United Kingdom. During the course students will build the necessary business and study skills needed to secure entry into university.
The Padworth Business Access Programme aims:
To foster a more analytical and independent approach to learning in preparation for entrance to university.
To ensure that students attain the standards in English language and Mathematics required by UK universities.
Each student receives counselling to guide them through the university application process: choosing the right course, completing application forms, writing personal statements, providing references and dealing with offers.
FEATURES
Age: 17-18
Minimum English Language Level IELTS 4.5
Course Components
English for Academic Purposes, Business Foundations, Information Technology, Finance and Maths
Academic Study
20 hours per week during Weeks 1 to 5, with a focus on English language skills. 26 hours per week thereafter
End of Programme Assessment Assessment is done internally and takes place at the end of each term. The final grade is based on the coursework grade (40% weighting) and the written examination (60% weighting), both of which are assessed by the Course Coordinator
NCUK International Foundation Year
Padworth College is proud to be a fully accredited NCUK partner.
Commencing in September, the NCUK International Foundation Year (IFY) Programme is an intensive one-year course designed to enable international students, aged 17-18, to progress on to study at a range of top UK universities.
The IFY is a modular programme that prepares students for first-year undergraduate degree courses. Students study a combination of modules that fit with their degree destination, with four pathways available – Business, Engineering, Humanities and Science.
All NCUK qualifications also include a specialist English for Academic Purposes (EAP) module designed to give students the language ability and study skills that will give them a head start on their undergraduate degree in the UK.
Successful completion of the IFY provides guaranteed access to one of over 50 NCUK partner universities in the UK, the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
FEATURES
Age: 17-18
Minimum English Language Level IELTS 5.5
Academic Modules
Business Pathway: Business Studies, Economics and Global Studies
Engineering Pathway: Chemistry, Mathematics (for Engineering) and Physics
Humanities Pathway: Business Studies, Global Studies and Sociology
Science Pathway: Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics
Core Module
English for Academic Purposes
Academic Study
Overall teaching hours (including enrichment subjects) are 20 hours per week
End of Programme Assessment 20% coursework and 80% examination. All assessments are set and moderated by NCUK
NCUK Partner Universities
Study Abroad Programme
FEATURES
Age: 14-17
Minimum English Language Level
IELTS 4.5, depending on the programme of study
Academic Study
Academic tuition, including intensive English, exciting learning projects and a personalised timetable
Course Length
Minimum two weeks – maximum one term
Embark on a unique educational journey with our Study Abroad Programme, where international students have the opportunity to experience the essence of a British boarding school, engage in exciting learning projects, while immersing themselves in many cultural and social activities.
For those venturing far from home for the first time, our Study Abroad Programme is designed to provide a welcoming, secure, and nurturing environment, offering a true taste of life abroad.
Each experience is tailored to the interests and needs of every individual or group, from the academic courses, to the range of excursions — including visits to iconic sites in London and beyond, this will all be discussed and confirmed before your arrival.
Padworth Summer School
Padworth Summer School offers a highly personalised experience, enabling students to immerse themselves in academic pathways like Global English, Explore STEM and Discover Business, whilst enjoying an action-packed social and leisure programme.
The academic programme at Padworth Summer School provides an engaging opportunity for students to participate in project-based learning that they are truly interested in, alongside tours, workshops and networking at top UK university partners.
Students will experience a wide range of activities and excursions throughout London, Oxford, Reading, Basingstoke and Bournemouth. From iconic sightseeing, thrilling sports and adrenaline activities, shopping trips, movies, ice skating, bowling, leisure days and so much more – the students will leave with unforgettable memories and strong friendships.
FEATURES
Age: 13-17
Minimum English Language
Level
IELTS 3.5
Academic Pathways
Global English, Explore STEM or Discover Business
Course Length
Minimum two weeks – maximum five weeks
Padworth Summer School
University Preparation Support
Identification and development of areas of interest and aptitude is important to support the most appropriate subjects and career pathway.
From Year 10, students will receive dedicated guidance and support on their course and university destination goals through the Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHE) programme, UniFrog and their tutor groups.
All students enrolled in Years 12 and 13 will benefit from a targeted range of advice and support, from guidance on UCAS applications, interview practice from industry experts, regular check-ins and more.
We have an excellent track record of placing students in leading universities, especially in the UK. We are forever committed to giving every possible assistance to students in our care and former students should they require further support.
FEATURES
1:1 advice and support from Personal Tutor in relation to university admissions. Support with UCAS applications, including personal statement preparation and interview practice.
Advice in relation to securing work experience or internship opportunities during the holidays in Year 12.
Annual College University and Careers Fairs to help inspire and inform students.
Students and Parents
receive access to UniFrog, a leading platform that helps students explore university destinations and careers, whilst providing key information for each course and supporting students to submit the strongest university applications possible.
Results and Destinations
2024 A Levels
65%
Students enrolled at Padworth progress on to a range of Russell Group and other universities, including medical programmes and Oxbridge. Recent destinations have included:
Russell Group
• Cardiff University
• Durham University
• King’s College London
• Imperial College London
• London School of Economics
• Queen Mary, University of London
• University College London
• University of Bristol
• University of Cambridge
• University of Edinburgh
• University of Exeter
• University of Glasgow
• University of Leeds
• University of Liverpool
• University of Manchester
• University of Nottingham
• University of Oxford
• University of Sheffield
• University of Southampton
• University of Warwick
• University of York
Other Universities
• Anglia Ruskin University
• Arts University Bournemouth
• Aston University
• Bangor University
• Bath Spa University
• Birkbeck, University of London
• Bournemouth University
• BPP University
• Brunel University
• Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts
• City University
• Coventry University
• De Montfort University
• Glasgow Caledonian University
• Goldsmiths, University of London
• Heriot-Watt University
• Kingston University
• Lancaster University
• London College of Fashion
• London Metropolitan University
• London South Bank University
• Loughborough University
• Middlesex University
• Nottingham Trent University
• Oxford Brookes University
• Plymouth University
• Regent’s University London
• Royal Holloway, University of London
• St George’s Medical School, University of London
• St Mary’s University
• Sheffield Hallam University
• SOAS University of London
2024 GCSEs
• Solent University
• Swansea University
• Teeside University
• Ulster University
• University College Birmingham
• University of Aberdeen
• University of the Arts London
• University of Bath
• University of Bedfordshire
• University of Bradford
• University of Brighton
• University of Buckingham
• University of Central Lancashire
• University of Dundee
• University of East Anglia
• University of Essex
• University of Greenwich
• University of Hertfordshire
• University of Huddersfield
• University of Hull
• University of Kent
• University of Leicester
• University of Lincoln
• University of Portsmouth
• University of Reading
• University of Roehampton
• University of St Andrews
• University of Sussex
• University of Westminster
• University of the West of England
• University of Winchester
• Hotel Institute Montreux
• Manipal University, India
• University of Hong Kong
• University of Karachi
Medical School Preparation Programme
At Padworth College, we’re committed to nurturing the next generation of medical professionals through our specialised programs tailored to aspiring doctors, dentists, nurses, and medical professionals.
With a proven track record of placing students into prestigious medical and related degree programs, we offer a comprehensive pathway to success.
Our tutors are experts in their field and have considerable experience supporting medical school candidates through the application process.
Students on the Medical School Preparation Programme benefit from:
Weekly medical sessions, designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of what a medical career involves and the opportunity to discuss medical ethics and current medical issues.
Support to prepare for specialist tests, namely the UCAT.
Interview preparation, for both traditional interviews and MMIs.
Dedicated lecture series, with visiting speakers delivering a series of lectures.
Co-Curricular
Our Co-Curricular Programme includes a varied programme of academic, physical, creative, social, and recreational activities throughout the week and weekend.
The Programme is designed to foster the ability of students to work as a team, engage with one another, develop new interests and confidence and to provide opportunities for students to add value to their university applications.
The Programme offers students the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of activities on campus and off-campus. As well as supporting students’ academic activities, these clubs and trips extend their cultural development across the arts, music, and sports.
I have enjoyed pool tournaments, movie nights, making cakes, sushi and ‘rocky roads’ and relaxing walks around the campus.’’
Sports include basketball, football, fitness, golf, table tennis, running and yoga. There is also a Fitness Suite on site.
Padworth students are diverse and curious and take full advantage of the wide range of co-curricular activities and projects on offer throughout the week. In addition to sports, College-based activities include charitable work/volunteering, chess, conservation, cookery, debating, film, languages, leadership skills and S.T.E.M.
Off-campus activities include bowling, cinema, ice skating, climbing and many other experiences.
I have connected so much with my friends in my boarding house that we have actually become each other’s family.”
Valeria from Moldova Bournemouth University - Psychology
Boarding
Boarding is central to the ethos of the College, and the strong Padworth College community provides a home-from-home in a beautiful, calm setting.
There are two boarding houses on campus, with separate houses for boys and girls. All boarding houses are fitted with kitchen facilities and common room areas for the students to use and laundry facilities. Almost all students benefit from having their own single study bedroom, offering private space, whilst being part of the boarding house family. Bedrooms are clean, comfortable, and furnished to a good standard.
Healthy and nutritious meals provided by our onsite chefs are served and eaten together in our dedicated dining room. This ensures day students are just as much an integral part of our community and can build friendships too.
For each student, the academic, social, and co-curricular demands of the school day
are substantial, and it is essential that the boarding houses provide a compassionate and supportive environment where students can relax in a family atmosphere and feel they belong.
This is shown through the warm and welcoming relationships between students and house staff, in the boarding activities
and the social relations between our students.
All students need autonomy, belonging and belief in their developing competences if they are to thrive in school, and the boarding houses are critical to that sense of belonging.
Living at Padworth is more than just boarding; it’s about being part of a vibrant, diverse community that encourages independence, fosters respect, and promotes personal growth. We pride ourselves on creating a warm, supportive environment where students feel safe, valued, and part of a close-knit family.”
Laura Piggott Head of Boarding
Location and Directions
Padworth College is ideally located in the hamlet of Padworth, close to the university town of Reading. With 12 acres, our students are surrounded by beautiful countryside and clean air.
Housed in a former historic country estate with majestic view of the natural landscape of West Berkshire, the College is the perfect setting for a calm learning environment.
Padworth College is easily accessible by road or rail. The nearest train stations are Aldermaston (7 minutes) and Theale (10 minutes). Trains from these stations travel directly to Reading (15 minutes) or to London Paddington (30 minutes), where connections are available to multiple destinations.
By road, the College is accessed via the M4 motorway and then the A4.
The closest airport is London Heathrow, about 40 minutes by car, although other airports are well connected.
Admissions
We encourage prospective students, parents and agents to visit the College and discover the true essence of Padworth.
We require all applicants to have an interview (either online or in-person) with a member of the academic team, during which we will offer expert and honest advice on programme and university selection. Applicants may also be required to sit an entrance test.
For further information about the College, including College policies, exam results, inspection reports, or to arrange a visit to the College, please contact Clare McNally, Registrar:
Email: admissions@padworth.com Telephone: +44 (0)118 983 2644
For additional information, including term dates and fees, please visit our website: www.padworth.com
