Downe House

Cold Ash, Thatcham, Berkshire, RG18 9JJ

Key facts

Mrs Emma McKendrick Headteacher

Girls Gender

542 Total Pupils

Town Location

Day & Boarding Type

11 - 18 Age Range

Mainstream Mainstream/Special

Church of England Religious Ethos

About Downe House

Set within the picturesque surroundings of Berkshire, this all-girls school is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and personal growth. With a strong emphasis on developing confident and capable young women, the school offers a rich blend of traditional values and modern educational practices. A diverse range of extracurricular activities complements a rigorous curriculum, ensuring that every student can explore her passions and talents. The supportive community fosters lifelong friendships and a sense of belonging, making it an ideal environment for nurturing future leaders.

Pupil information

Roll size, gender split and SEN provision.

Total Pupils

542 pupils

The total number of pupils enrolled at the school.

Girls

542 / 100.00%

With SEN Support

148 / 27.31%

With SEN EHCP

1 / 0.18%

Fees per term

Indicative termly fees including VAT where shown.

Day Fees

£11,196 (inc. VAT)

Boarding Fees

£15,108 – £20,304 (inc. VAT)

Downe House, South East, Berkshire, RG18 9JJ

A-level performance

2025

Value-added and attainment indicators for sixth-form students (England). Figures are for context; always confirm with the school.

Progress Score

0.22

Above Average

These figures tell you how much progress students who studied A levels at this school or college made between the end of key stage 4 and the end of their A level studies, compared to similar students across England. These scores are also known as 'value added' scores.

The scores are calculated by comparing the A-level results of students at this school or college with the A level results of students in schools and colleges across England who started with similar results at the end of the previous key stage – key stage 4.

A score above zero means students made more progress, on average, than students across England who got similar results at the end of key stage 4. A score below zero means students made less progress, on average, than students across England who got similar results at the end of key stage 4.

Average Result

A-

This tells you the average grade that students achieved per A level entry.

AAB (with ≥2 Facilitating Subjects)

39.60%

Facilitating A levels are ones that are commonly needed for entry to leading universities. They are: biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, further mathematics, geography, history, English literature and classical or modern languages.

Inspection report

Read the latest report from the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI).

Inspected by ISI. Independent schools in England are regulated through statutory inspection.

View inspection report

Frequently asked questions about Downe House

What type of school is Downe House?

Downe House is a girls' independent mainstream school for pupils aged 11 to 18, located near Thatcham in Berkshire. The school offers education from Prep through to Sixth Form, with pathways leading to GCSEs and A Levels.

How do I apply to Downe House?

Applications typically begin 1–2 years in advance and may include registration, assessments and interviews. Families can explore the UK private school admissions timeline to understand key dates and entry points.
https://schoolscout.uk/posts/uk-private-school-admissions-timeline

What are the fees at Downe House?

Fees for Downe House vary by year group, with typical termly costs around £11,196–£20,304.

Is Downe House a day or boarding school?

Downe House offers day and boarding options. Where boarding is available, this may include full, weekly or flexi arrangements.

Is Downe House a single-sex or co-educational school?

Downe House offers a girls' learning environment.