Dolphin School
Reading, Wokingham, South East · RG10 0FR
A small independent school near Reading in Wokingham, Dolphin School educates a mixed intake from age 3 through to 13, with just 181 pupils on roll. That intimate scale shapes much of its character, allowing children to be known well as they move from the early years towards senior school entry. The Independent Schools Inspectorate rated the school excellent for both the quality of pupils' education and their personal development. Parents should note, however, that the same inspection found the school did not meet all of its regulatory compliance requirements, an area worth raising directly with the school.
181
Pupils
excellent
ISI
£21,870
Day fees / yr
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Open in Google Maps ↗Overview & data
- Gender
- Mixed
- Type
- independent (fee-paying) school
- Age range
- 3-13
- Pupils
- 181
- Location
- Reading, Wokingham, South East
- Website
- https://www.dolphinschool.com/
- Telephone
- 0118 934 1277
Headteacher
Head Mr Adam Hurst
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Teaching & academics
The ISI's top rating of excellent for the quality of pupils' education points to strong teaching and learning across the 3-13 age range. A notably high proportion of pupils receive SEN support, around 27 per cent, suggesting a school accustomed to identifying and responding to individual learning needs. The non-selective, broad age span means children are prepared steadily for the next stage of their education.
Learning support & SEN
- SEN support
- 26.67%
- EHC plans
- 0%
Ethos & heritage
- Religious character
- None
- Boarding
- No
Money matters
- Day fees (per year)
- £15,966 - £21,870
Means-tested bursaries from year 5
Inspection reports
- ISI rating
- excellent
- ISI personal development
- excellent
- Last inspected
- 4 December 2025
The last word
A small, nurturing prep school with excellent ISI ratings for education and personal development, suited to families who value being well known. The compliance shortfall flagged at inspection is one to ask about before applying.
The Passmate verdict
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Dolphin School 11+: frequently asked questions
Where is Dolphin School located?
Dolphin School is located at Waltham Road, Hurst, Berkshire, RG10 0FR, Reading, RG10 0FR.
What type of school is Dolphin School?
Dolphin School is an independent (fee-paying) school in South East.
How many pupils attend Dolphin School?
Dolphin School has approximately 181 pupils on roll.
What is Dolphin School's inspection rating?
Dolphin School is inspected by the ISI and was judged "excellent" at its inspection on 4 December 2025.
Compiled from public data. Last checked June 2026.