Original Coverage & Source Attribution: www.readingchronicle.co.uk
The university has educated thousands of students since it was founded in 1892. Its former students include people who have become well known in politics, broadcasting, literature, music and sport.
Cullum studied English Literature at Reading before becoming an internationally known singer, songwriter, pianist and jazz musician.
His albums have sold millions of copies worldwide, and he remains one of Britain’s most successful jazz artists.
Penny Mordaunt competes against broadcaster Mark Pougatch ahead of the annual World Conker Championships at the Shuckburgh Arms in Southwick, Peterborough. Picture date: Sunday October 11, 2026. PA Photo. Photo credit should read: Jacob King/PA Wire (Image: PA)
Penny Mordaunt is another prominent former student. The former Conservative leadership contender became an MP after graduating and held several senior government positions. These included Secretary of State for Defence and Leader of the House of Commons.
Laura Tobin attending the Pride of Britain Awards at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London. Picture date: Monday October 20, 2025. PA Photo. Photo credit should read: Ian West/PA Wire (Image: PA)
Television weather presenters Laura Tobin and Tomasz Schafernaker also studied at the university. Tobin works for ITV, while Schafernaker is a BBC weather forecaster. Their television careers have made them familiar to viewers across the UK.
Reading has links to several notable writers. Michael Rosen, the author, poet and broadcaster, studied there before developing a career in literature, radio and television. He is best known for children’s books including We’re Going on a Bear Hunt.
Wilfred Owen studied botany at Reading before serving during the First World War. He wrote many of the poems that later established his reputation as one of Britain’s greatest war poets.
The university’s former students also include Julian Barratt, the comedian and actor who co-created and starred in The Mighty Boosh. Fashion entrepreneur Linda Bennett, founder of clothing brand LK Bennett, is another graduate.
Julian Barratt attending the Kill Jackie premiere at the Curzon Bloomsbury in central London. Picture date: Thursday September 24, 2026. PA Photo. Photo credit should read: Jeff Moore/PA Wire (Image: PA)
Sport is represented by Olympic rowers James Cracknell and Cath Bishop. Cracknell won two gold medals for Great Britain and became one of the country’s best-known athletes. Bishop won an Olympic silver medal before building a career beyond competitive rowing.
Reading’s alumni include Amina J. Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations.
Not every famous person connected with the institution studied there. Actress Kate Winslet received an honorary degree in recognition of her achievements, but was not a student at the university.
The University of Reading was established in 1892 and continues to attract students from around the world. Its alumni record covers public service, entertainment, sport, literature and business.
The range of former students reflects the different subjects taught at Reading and the careers pursued after graduation. Some became household names through work on television or in music, while others gained recognition through public office, international organisations or sporting success.
The university’s connection with Owen also links it to the country’s literary history and the writing created during the First World War.
Current students are continuing the institution’s long history, while its former students remain visible across British public life and beyond.
