A Noble History

The school had humble but visionary beginnings, being founded by Charles Read, a local philanthropist, who offered free education to children of the parish without any entrance qualifications.

In 1667 this was a wonderful plan and over the following centuries the concept has proved reliable and powerful.  Read School has grown over the last 354 years and has seen successful former pupils spread around the world.

There have been times of growth and consolidation, experiences of war and hardship, periods of independence and state involvement, developments for teaching of boys and girls.  Through all these years of change and progress the school has always remained true to the original concept of the founder Charles Read: that all children have access to the school without academic restrictions. Within this inclusive environment, Read School strives to enable each pupil to grow in confidence to the best of their ability and on leaving take a positive personal career path within the demanding world.

There have been others since Charles Read, who have also greatly contributed to the success of the school, either from a teaching capacity or as external benefactors and Old Draxonians are now found around the world in many walks of life.

Roll of Honour