Royal Grammar School
High Street, Guildford, GU1 3BB
Pupils
1314
Ages
11 - 18
Gender
Boys
Type
Secondary
Head Teacher
Dr Jon Cox
Boarding / Day
Day
Fees
£4,389 to £7,524
ISC Associations
HMC, IAPS, AGBIS, ISBA
Religion
Non-denominational
Bursaries
Available
About Royal Grammar School
The Royal Grammar School in Guildford is a distinguished educational establishment that has long been recognised for its academic excellence and commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals. With a history dating back to 1509, the school has evolved to offer a balanced approach to education, combining traditional values with modern teaching methods.
The entry process is highly competitive, with candidates from approximately 140 different schools vying for one of the 150 available places. The selection process is rigorous, involving the ISEB common pre-test and a creative writing task, ensuring that creativity is not overlooked. The school seeks students who demonstrate an eagerness to engage in the learning process, focusing on how they think rather than just what they know. This approach is reflected in the school’s ethos, which prioritises character and potential over mere academic performance.
Parents and teachers agree that tutoring is not always beneficial, as the school values independent thinking and problem-solving skills. The admissions team is dedicated to identifying students who will thrive in the school’s environment, offering second interviews to those with borderline results in maths or English. This thoughtful approach ensures that the school selects students who will be happy and successful in their studies.
The school’s academic standards are exceptionally high, with impressive GCSE and A-level results. In 2023, 89% of GCSE grades were between 9-7, and 75% of A-level results were A*/A. The school offers a broad curriculum, including a range of practical and emotionally intelligent subjects such as Drama and PE. Students are encouraged to explore a variety of subjects, with a strong emphasis on languages, including French, Spanish, Latin, and optional studies in Arabic, Mandarin, Japanese, and Russian.
The teaching and learning environment is a blend of traditional and modern methods, with an average class size of 15-20. Students are required to bring a Microsoft Surface to school, although handwriting remains the primary means of working. The school is praised for its diverse and talented teaching staff, who are committed to extending students’ learning and challenging their ideas.
The school is also renowned for its extra-curricular activities, offering over 75 clubs, including sailing, Model United Nations, and photography. The arts are a significant focus, with an impressive music programme and regular drama performances. The school’s sporting facilities are excellent, with a strong emphasis on rugby, hockey, and cricket. The school has achieved national success in athletics, tennis, swimming, and shooting, dispelling any old notions that its students are not sporty.
Pastoral care is a priority, with a dedicated team meeting bi-weekly to plan student support. The school offers a range of wellbeing initiatives, including independent counsellors and drop-in sessions. The school’s approach to discipline is proactive and understanding, with a focus on addressing the root causes of behavioural issues.
The Royal Grammar School is committed to inclusivity and diversity, challenging societal issues such as misogyny and homophobia through teaching and discussion. The school has a strong sense of duty towards its students and their families, offering financial assistance to ensure that a good education is accessible to bright local boys, regardless of their financial circumstances.
In conclusion, the Royal Grammar School in Guildford is a leading educational institution that combines academic excellence with a strong pastoral focus. Its commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals is evident in its broad curriculum, diverse extra-curricular activities, and inclusive ethos. To receive updates about this school, including exam results, senior staff changes, and open days, please bookmark it using the button at the end of this review.
ISI Review
The Royal Grammar School, Guildford, is an academically selective day school for boys, established in 1509 and granted a royal charter in 1552. It comprises a preparatory school for pupils aged 3 to 11 and a senior school for those aged 11 to 18. The school is located near the center of Guildford and is a registered charity and limited company overseen by a board of governors. Following a merger in 2021, the preparatory and senior schools now operate as a single entity. The school aims to provide an excellent education that fosters character and intellect in a supportive environment, encouraging intellectual curiosity, creativity, and essential life skills through a variety of extracurricular activities.
The student body is diverse, with pupils coming from various professional backgrounds predominantly within Guildford and its surroundings. The school reports that its pupils generally possess above-average academic abilities compared to national standards. Among the 1,290 pupils enrolled, 209 are identified as having special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), with 107 receiving specialized support. Additionally, 204 pupils have English as an additional language (EAL), with four receiving extra assistance from EAL teachers. The school emphasizes the importance of catering for the needs of all pupils, including those who are most able and those with specific talents.
The inspection report highlights that the school meets all regulatory compliance standards set by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI). The inspection process included a focused compliance inspection combined with an educational quality inspection. The findings indicate that the school effectively safeguards and promotes the welfare of its pupils, maintains good behavior, and prevents bullying. Health and safety requirements are met, and appropriate first aid provisions are in place. The school has a strategic approach to risk assessment and maintains accurate admission and attendance records.
In terms of educational quality, the school provides a curriculum that is well-documented and supported by appropriate plans and schemes of work. Teaching enables pupils to make good progress, and the school has established a suitable framework for assessing pupils' performance. The quality of education is further enhanced by the provision of relationships education in the preparatory school and relationships and sex education in the senior school, with policies developed in consultation with parents.
The report emphasizes the excellent academic achievements of pupils, who display exceptional attitudes towards learning. Pupils consistently achieve outstanding results in public examinations, with a significant proportion attaining top grades. The school’s performance in A-levels has been particularly strong, with over three-quarters of results at A* or A grade. The majority of pupils gain admission to universities with demanding entrance requirements. The school also fosters a strong sense of personal development, with pupils demonstrating high levels of self-esteem, resilience, and a commitment to collaborative work.
Pupils are encouraged to develop their communication skills, which are evident in their articulate discussions and presentations. They engage in various extracurricular activities, including music, drama, and sports, achieving notable success in these areas. The school promotes a culture of respect and inclusivity, with pupils demonstrating a mature understanding of cultural diversity and tolerance.
The report recommends that the school further empower pupils in the senior school to maximize their potential by enhancing existing tracking, monitoring, and assessment systems in conjunction with the preparatory school. This recommendation aligns with the school’s commitment to continuous improvement and ensuring that all pupils receive the support they need to excel.
Overall, the Royal Grammar School, Guildford, is characterized by its strong academic performance, commitment to personal development, and a supportive and inclusive environment. The school’s ethos emphasizes the importance of character development alongside academic achievement, preparing pupils not only for academic success but also for their future roles as responsible and engaged members of society. The school’s leadership and management demonstrate effective governance, ensuring that the standards are consistently met and that the well-being of pupils is prioritized. The positive feedback from parents and the community further underscores the school’s reputation as a leading educational institution.
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Last Updated: 8 October 2024