Downe House

Senior Boarding School for Girls in Thatcham, Berkshire

Downe House is a world-class all-girls’ boarding school in the UK, offering a traditional full boarding education with a modern twist. With a focus on excellence and the individual, girls are encouraged to make the most of the exceptional academic, co-curricular and enrichment opportunities on offer and to create their own paths, authentic to themselves.


Supported by a personal tutor, girls excel not only in their studies but in sport, creative and performing arts and music, going on to study at the top universities around the world. A Microsoft Showcase School, girls are equipped with outstanding digital skills, including VR, AR and AI assisted learning, preparing them for a fast-developing, modern workplace. With a strong global outlook, Downe House prepares young women to be world-ready, offering them opportunities to study and work abroad.


In Year 8, all girls spend up to a term at our school in France, and in years 10 and 12, girls can take part in our Global Exchange Programme, with 16 schools across five continents. The Sixth Form takes this further, offering global internships with leading companies around the world, a Mini MBA and the Ivy House Leadership Award. Students leave us with confidence, empowered with the knowledge and skills to succeed.

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“Downe House was everything we hoped for. The School has done a wonderful job of creating the right environment to foster achievement and happiness.” (Current parent)
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Downe House Logo
Head Mrs Emma McKendrick
School Type Senior school for girls
Senior Age Range 11 - 18
Academic GCSE: Yes
Alevel: Yes
Int'l Baccalaureate: No
Vocational Mini MBA, Ivy House Leadership qualification.
Total Students 585
Youngest Boarder 11
Int'l Students 56