University of Reading

History

We are proud of our long and fascinating history at the University of Reading. Our tradition of academic excellence dates back to the late nineteenth century and owes much to the vision and generosity of several notable individuals.Our origins lie in the Schools of Art and Science established in Reading in 1860 and 1870. These became part of an extension college opened in 1892 by Christ Church, Oxford. The college thrived, receiving its first treasury grant in 1901. Three years later the local Palmer family, of the famous biscuit manufacturer Huntley & Palmers, donated our London Road site. Their continued support helped to fund expansion, including the opening of Wantage Hall in 1908 and The Research Institute in Dairying in 1912. We received a Royal Charter in 1926, the only university to do so between the two world wars. At the same time, Dr William M Childs became the University’s first Vice-Chancellor.

Description

The University of Reading is ranked as one of the UK’s 10 most research-intensive universities and as one of the top 200 universities in the world. We enjoy a world-class reputation for teaching, research and enterprise. Established as an extension college of Christ Church, Oxford in 1892, we received a Royal Charter in 1926, the only university to do so between the two world wars. Important achievements include being the first university to win the Queen’s Award for Export Achievement (1989) and twice receiving the Queen’s Anniversary Prize for Higher Education (1998 and 2006).The quality and diversity of our research is recognised nationally and internationally, with a number of our researchers receiving awards for their work. We are home to several centres of excellence and conduct world-class research across a broad range of disciplines. The Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) 2008 results confirm the standing of the University of Reading as a research-intensive university. ...