Queen Anne’s School: Explore Reviews, Rankings, Fees, And More
Embark on a journey of discovery as we delve into the world of Queen Anne’s School. With a rich tapestry of reviews, rankings, and insights, we invite you to uncover the essence of this esteemed institution. From its storied history to its modern-day achievements, join us as we navigate the intricate landscape of Queen Anne’s School.
Table of Contents
Key Features of Queen Anne's School
- Local authority: Reading
- Pupils: 430; sixth formers: 140
- Gender: Girls
- Age: 11-18
- Religion: Church of England
- Fees: Day £26,886; Boarding £43,530 – £44,949 pa
- Open days: March, May
Queen Anne's School Results
GCSE Results (2023):
- 60% achieved grades 9-7.
A Level Results (2023):
- 49% attained grades A/A*, with 74% achieving A-B*.
GCSE Results (2019, pre-pandemic):
- 60% achieved grades 9-7.
A Level Results (2019, pre-pandemic):
- 44% attained grades A/A*, with 68% achieving A-B*.
Boarding Experience in Queen Anne's School
For junior boarders in years 7-9, Mitchell, the former sixth form house, has been transformed into a junior ‘retreat’. Here, girls enjoy comfortable sleeping arrangements in single, double, or triple rooms, providing a cosy and homely atmosphere. The boarding houses feature numerous communal spaces, including ‘sits’ and snugs, with highlights such as the Big Sit, a bright and tastefully decorated gathering area for house meetings or casual gatherings. In addition, the Zen Zone offers relaxation with comfortable sofas and a pool table, catering to various leisure interests.
The boarding experience is enhanced by the presence of houseparents, who themselves have a deep connection to the school, with two daughters having gone through Queen Anne’s. Additionally, the presence of up to 20 well-behaved teachers’ dogs adds to the homely atmosphere, making the school feel like a welcoming environment for boarders.
For older boarders in years 10-13, accommodation is based in three mixed-age houses conveniently located in the heart of the school. These houses provide a sense of community and are equipped with ensuite facilities in Holmes rooms for added comfort. Boarders in these houses enjoy well-appointed kitchens and prep rooms, with access to computers for study purposes.
Weekend activities add to the boarding experience, with opportunities for trips to London and local entertainments. Boarders also have the option to explore Reading on Sundays or participate in various outings such as theatre visits, trampolining, cinema trips, or bowling.
Extracurricular Activities in Queen Anne's School
At Queen Anne’s School, the range of activities available caters to diverse interests and talents, ensuring every student finds opportunities to flourish and excel.
Music:
- The music department is celebrated, with over 50% of girls learning at least one instrument, often achieving remarkable standards.
- From choirs to string orchestra and jazz ensembles, there are numerous opportunities for musical exploration.
- State-of-the-art facilities include two recital halls, a recording studio, and 16 practice rooms, fostering a conducive environment for musical development.
Performing Arts:
- The purpose-built Performing Arts Centre hosts four productions annually, showcasing the school’s commitment to theatrical excellence.
- Drama is integral to the curriculum, with many students opting to study it at GCSE and A level, and nearly 100 girls participating in LAMDA examinations.
Fine Art:
- The school boasts well-equipped art studios, including a textiles room and a kiln, nurturing creativity in various mediums.
- Students regularly exhibit their work, with entries to prestigious exhibitions such as the Royal Academy’s Young Artists’ Summer Show.
DofE (Duke of Edinburgh’s Award):
- A significant proportion of students engage in the DofE programme, with an impressive track record of achievements, including numerous gold awards.
Sport:
- Queen Anne’s is renowned for its sports facilities and prowess on the field, with lacrosse being a particular strength.
- The school’s commitment to sports development is evident through ongoing improvements to facilities, including plans for a levelled lacrosse pitch and resurfaced tennis courts.
- Beyond lacrosse and netball, the school competes in rowing, football, tennis, cross-country, athletics, swimming, cricket, and trampolining.
- Dance enthusiasts also thrive, with offerings ranging from extracurricular clubs to A level study, including ISTD dance lessons in ballet, tap, and modern styles.
Admissions Process: Entering Queen Anne's School
At Queen Anne’s School, the admissions process varies depending on the entry point:
11+ Entry:
- Assessment takes place in October before the year of entry.
- Components include a written English paper, online maths and reasoning papers.
- The assessment day also incorporates interactive activities to acquaint prospective students with the school environment.
13+ Entry:
- Girls undergo traditional Common Entrance (CE) papers in maths, English, science, and reasoning.
- These examinations assess readiness for entry into the school at this stage.
Sixth Form Entry:
- Entry into the sixth form involves November entrance exams in maths and English.
- Additionally, prospective students must meet a minimum requirement of six GCSEs at grade 6 or above.
- These GCSEs should include any subjects intended to be studied at Queen Anne’s School.
Overall, the admissions process at Queen Anne’s School aims to evaluate academic aptitude while also providing opportunities for prospective students to engage with the school community and its ethos.
SEN Support in Queen Anne's School
At Queen Anne’s School, support for students with special educational needs (SEN) is tailored to individual needs, ensuring a personalised approach. While approximately 15% of pupils have some form of SEN, there are no students with statements, indicating a proactive approach to meeting diverse needs within the mainstream setting. For those requiring additional assistance, one-to-one support from specialist teachers is available, albeit at an extra charge, underscoring the commitment to providing comprehensive support.
Moreover, the school demonstrates inclusivity through physical accessibility, with lift access in designated boarding houses and flexibility in room allocations and timetabling to accommodate students with mobility issues. Additionally, the provision of English as an Additional Language (EAL) courses, facilitated by an ESL coordinator, ensures that non-native English speakers receive targeted support in small group settings, fostering language proficiency and integration within the school community.
Queen Anne's School Testimonials and Reviews
Had the pleasure of attending Lower School Concert that was superbly organised and well presented. The popular music pieces were played, by very talented pupils, on Cello, Piano, Violin, flute, and many more. This was a great evening of great performance!
A very special place indeed! Queen Anne’s is a school with so much tradition but yet it is modern and forward-thinking. After only one term, the change in my daughter was quite exceptional: she grew in confidence and made huge strides in her learning! The vast range of activities on offer meant she could try her hand at everything and find out what her passions are. This is a school where girls are stretched, nurtured and given every opportunity to thrive.
I was immediately impressed with the whole architecture and ambience as I entered to work, by my agency, as an Assistant in the school canteen or kitchen. Kitchen Manager Steve, is such an honourable gentleman. I quietly observed him while working there and I can easily say he’s a noble man. He was actually helping with clearing up the dishes and also cleaning up while IN A SUIT, even though he didn’t have to. If all managers had this kind of positive attitude towards work like Steve has, the world would be a better place. Chefs work very hard and diligently. Kudos to the whole kitchen team for your selfless dedication, great interpersonal relations & communication skills and of course your tasty meals. A million thanks for being so super!
Just had Parents Evening and thrilled with the progress and care taken of my daughter. Staff clearly know my daughter and their stuff. Fantastic pastoral care in amazing facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ms Elaine Purves took on Headship at Queen Anne’s School in January 2022.
£8,962 per term Includes tuition, lunch, morning and afternoon snack, ordinary medical care and use of books which are provided below Sixth Form.
In 2017, 66% of the graduates achieved A*-B in A-Level, and 36% of them achieved A*-A. And most students can secure a place in the top 20 UK universities. Also, Queen Anne’s offers some unique courses like Latin, Chinese and Music Technology for students. Boarding life at Queen Anne’s is immense fun.
Boarding schools prioritise the safety and well-being of their students. They have trained staff, supervision protocols, health services, and designated staff members to address students’ emotional and social needs.
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