Pangbourne College

About Us

With almost 30 years of co-educational experience, Pangbourne College is an independent day and boarding school for girls and boys aged 11-18 years, set in over 230 acres of Berkshire’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with the best four mile stretch of rowing river in the country.

At Pangbourne College, we are guided by our past whilst fully embracing the hope and opportunity of the future. It is this which allows our students to leave us as well-rounded and compassionate individuals, able to flourish in a complex world.

There are four pillars that develop and sustain a Pangbourne education: Academic Rigour, Exploration, Community and Leadership. 

Providing a challenging academic curriculum, we also offer plenty of co-curricular opportunities for sport, music, art, drama and adventurous training, so that each individual fulfils their potential and develops confidence, values and skills to make a positive difference to the world.

Ideally located

Pangbourne College's stunning 230 acre campus is located in the heart of West Berkshire’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The College is a short distance away from the village of Pangbourne, peacefully nestled on the banks of the River Thames, approximately 6 miles from Reading and 40 miles from London. 

Pangbourne is remarkably well connected with its own train station and easy access to the M4 and M40. Pupils come to the College from a wide area, both daily, and to board. There are a range of transport options for getting to Pangbourne College, including a network of bus routes and complimentary shuttle bus service from Pangbourne and Reading stations.

Highly rated

During our full ISI Inspection in January 2024, Pangbourne was judged in every section as meeting all statutory Independent School Standards and other applicable regulatory requirements. The Report stated: 
"A broad and balanced curriculum is supported by a suitably challenging programme of co-curricular activities and sports. As a result, pupils thrive and participate with enthusiasm. They develop new skills and confidence."

In 2024, we were shortlisted as a finalist in the Independent Schools of the Year 2024 Award for Student Wellbeing.

The Good Schools Guide describes us as: ‘A small, distinctive, grounded and family-oriented school that puts huge emphasis on self-discipline, teamwork and leadership. Caring and supportive, Pangbourne buzzes with activity and encourages every pupil to have a go.’

Admissions

We welcome applications from children from a variety of backgrounds and educational experience, who demonstrate the potential to make the very best of the opportunities that Pangbourne offers. We want our community to be inclusive and reflect the world outside of school.

We are not an academically selective school, but we are discerning in our selection process. Therefore, our assessment process is designed to identify your child’s core strengths and skills, both inside and outside of the classroom. 

Visit us

The only way to experience the authentic Pangbourne is to visit us and enjoy a tour of the College and speak to pupils and staff here. They will give you real insight into what Pangbourne is today. We would encourage you to join us on one of our Open Mornings, held in Autumn and Spring, or one of our popular Head's Introduction to Pangbourne events.

Parents say…

‘As we looked at other schools it became really clear to us that Pangbourne educates and nurtures your child as an individual, for who they are. Pangbourne really sees your child and understands and nurtures them, both academically and pastorally, in a way that works for them and for the wider family.’

Abi Williamson, A Parent