Brief history

The Abbey School was founded in 1887 and named after the previous school at The Abbey Gateway in Reading where Jane Austen had been a pupil. The Abbey quickly established an outstanding reputation that has placed it at the forefront of girls’ education.

The Abbey School moved to its present site in 1905 under the visionary leadership of Miss Helen Musson (pictured above, seated centre). Since then there have been just five headmistresses through more than 100 years - ladies who have ensured that the school has continued to meet the constantly changing needs of education.

Substantial extensions have taken place over the years, most recently the new Jane Austen Wing which has transformed the front of the Senior School whilst retaining the character of the traditional buildings.

A History of The Abbey School 1887-2001 by Barbara M Laverack and Barbara C L Sheldon is available from the school at a cost of £5 plus £1 P&P. You may order a copy of the History using the downloaded document below.