Academic Review 2026

RGS ACADEMIC REVIEW 2026

R

94%

90%

98%

of A Level grades A*– B

of GCSE grades 9–7

offers from world-class universities

The Sunday Times School of the Year

R E I G AT E G R A M M A R S C H O O L

If you are looking for a school to really get the best out of your child, it’s a fantastic environment to be in. As a parent, I really don’t feel he could have been anywhere better.

Parent

Families do not have to choose between academic ambition and wellbeing at RGS, they get both. The combination of leading academic outcomes alongside genuine pastoral strength is our guiding ethos: that happy kids leads to great results.

My message to my teachers is that you’ve done an amazing job, and I am so grateful for everything you’ve done.

I just know that in the future you are going to help so many more students just like me.

Teddy, Fifth Form student

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ACADEMIC REVIEW 2026

GCSE RESULTS 2026 Students achieved the school’s bestever GCSE Results

74% OF ALL GRADES WERE 9 - 8 (A*)

90%

98%

Almost half

GRADES 9-7

FURTHER MATHEMATICS GRADES 9 - 7

OF ALL GRADES WERE GRADE 9

RGS students achieved the school’s best-ever GCSE results in 2026, with nearly half of all grades awarded at Grade 9, almost three quarters (74%) at Grades 9–8 and 90% at Grades 9–7.

The results reflected exceptional achievement across the breadth of the curriculum, with students excelling in STEM subjects, languages, humanities and the creative arts.

Mathematics and the sciences delivered particularly strong outcomes. Almost half of all grades in Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Biology and Physics were awarded at Grade 9, while Further Mathematics achieved an exceptional 98% Grades 9–7.

The breadth of achievement was particularly striking. Alongside outstanding results in Mathematics and the sciences, students achieved 100% Grades 9–7 in Art, Photography and Design Technology, demonstrating excellence across both creative and academic disciplines.

Watch our GCSE Results Day video here:

These are our strongest-ever GCSE results, but what is particularly pleasing is the breadth of their achievement.

Our students have excelled across the sciences, mathematics, humanities, languages and creative subjects, reflecting the many different talents and interests within this year group.

Headmaster, Shaun Fenton

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R E I G AT E G R A M M A R S C H O O L

Key Stage 4: Three-year GCSE programme Reigate Grammar School students benefit from a three-year GCSE programme, a system which has proven results for enhanced academic attainment and increased depth of learning.

RGS students are already working at a level ahead of national expectations. For those students who join us in the First Form (Year 7), we help them work quickly through the important foundation stage in the first two years. This allows us to support students to begin working at the higher level of GCSE study from the start of the Third Form (Year 9), a full

year earlier than at most other schools.

Having three years to work at GCSE level means students have three years to do what other schools rush through in just two years. The extra time supports higher attainment and higher GCSE grades that will open up additional opportunities as students apply to top universities.

The extended three-year GCSE course also enables RGS students to enjoy significantly greater breadth and depth in their learning.

Electives Programme The extra time available in the Upper School means that we are able to offer an electives programme. This innovative programme of modular options is a key component of our Upper School curriculum and contains a wide range of studies and life skills that are valuable and form part of a great education. Students in the Third and Fourth Forms will spend a double lesson each week in their chosen elective which rotates every half term.

Students may choose to try something new, such as film studies or stand-up comedy, alternatively they may prefer to develop further an existing interest

e.g. website design or photography. The elective courses give students the ability to choose what they learn without the pressure of an examined course. A small number of elective choices offer accreditation for the work undertaken.

Whilst the electives available will vary over time, examples might include starting a new language, an art related elective in clay modelling or special effects prosthetics, a programme of enterprise and entrepreneurship, linguistic challenges, stop frame animation, film appreciation or forensic psychology.

Model United Nations (MUN) All students have the opportunity to participate in MUN, which gives a platform to engage further in areas of interest. First to Third Formers join the Junior Committee, where they are mentored by Sixth Formers and staff, and Fourth to Upper Sixth Formers make up the Senior Committee.

MUN allows students to explore a diverse range of issues: from History and Politics, to Geography, Science and Technology. During meetings students simulate United Nations by debating and discussing a number of different issues, allowing them to be exposed to and engage in a worldwide view of relevant events. MUN helps students grasp complex issues from multiple perspectives and promotes consensus building, a key diplomatic skill.

Students attend MUN conferences, where our delegations meet with other students from a variety of schools to try to solve real world issues through the lens of their designated country. They also prepare for, and host, our highly anticipated annual ReiMUN and Junior ReiMUN conferences.

In addition to the academic gains, MUN provides valuable experience for university applications and employment, and serves as a stepping stone towards qualifications like the Extended Project Qualification.

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The electives programme also encompasses the RGS Outreach and Social, Moral, Spiritual and Cultural (SMSC) provision encouraging and enabling students to be involved with and create benefits for the local community. Every student will undertake a rotation of Physical, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHEE) as one of their elective choices. Upper School students will also continue with PE and games lessons each week alongside their academic studies and electives choices.

Beyond the Classroom RGS students enjoy numerous opportunities to extend their academic studies, delving more deeply into favourite subjects and exploring beyond their GCSE choices.

Weekly clubs in school include fascinating talks by staff and Sixth Form students, opportunities to strengthen language skills through discussion and film analysis, advanced programming workshops and enterprise projects.

There are also frequent visits outside of school, with day trips ranging from STEM lecture days in London and Brighton to walking tours to explore cultures and evolution of places. Students also enjoy opportunities to head overseas to expand their understanding, from investigating glacial and volcanic forces in Iceland to exploring the ancient sites of Greece.

ACADEMIC REVIEW 2026

GCSE SUCCESS STORIES Anastasia K Anastasia achieved Grade 9 in every one of her GCSEs, an exceptional accomplishment made even more remarkable by the fact that she joined RGS in the Second Form, just over a month after moving to England from Ukraine. Faced with a new country, culture and school, she credits the warm welcome and support of her teachers and classmates with helping her to settle and flourish.

A gifted linguist, Anastasia speaks three languages fluently and is also learning Mandarin and German. She took her Mandarin GCSE two years early and has volunteered to help Ukrainian children learn English, an experience she found particularly rewarding.

Beyond the classroom, Anastasia completed her Bronze and Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards and performed in productions including A Christmas Carol, Peter Pan and Anything Goes.

Teddy S Teddy also achieved Grade 9 in every one of his GCSEs. He joined RGS in the First Form from Chinthurst and has particularly valued the friendships and connections he has formed during his time at the school.

Music has been an important part of Teddy’s RGS experience. Through guitar lessons, he has developed his playing and explored the musical genres that interest him.

Completing his Duke of Edinburgh’s Award was another memorable experience, helping him to build confidence and develop his leadership skills while taking on new challenges alongside his friends.

Teddy will continue into the RGS Sixth Form to study Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and Geography. He is looking forward to concentrating on the subjects he enjoys most and embracing the greater independence and freedom that come with Sixth Form study.

She will study Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics and German in the RGS Sixth Form and is looking forward to exploring these subjects in greater depth, contributing to a committee and meeting new people.

Joimaia B

Hugo J

Joi joined RGS in the First Form from Burstow Primary School and has embraced opportunities across academic study, sport, creativity and service. A committed sportswoman, she has represented RGS in netball, hockey and swimming, developing resilience, teamwork and close friendships through training, fixtures and tournaments.

Hugo joined RGS in the First Form from Kew College and has made the most of the academic, musical and cultural opportunities available to him. Music has been central to his school experience: he has sung in choirs and concerts, including the annual Unplugged concert, and achieved a Distinction in his Grade 7 Musical Theatre examination.

Her Duke of Edinburgh’s Award was another highlight, allowing her to develop her volunteering, musical and physical skills. Through the Electives programme, Joi also volunteered at Loveworks, helping to organise and pack stock while learning more about the charity’s support for the local community. The experience inspired her to continue volunteering beyond school.

Hugo has also enjoyed taking his learning beyond the classroom. Trips to Valencia, Greece and Iceland provided unforgettable experiences, from practising Spanish in Valencia to walking on a glacier in Iceland. He has spoken at RSM during Neurodiversity Week for three consecutive years and, through his Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, volunteered at RSM’s MTech club.

Joi is particularly proud of finding her creative voice and developing the confidence to express her ideas, including through the Spoken Poetry Contest. Following her excellent GCSE results, she will study Biology, Chemistry, Psychology and Mathematics, providing a strong foundation for her ambition to pursue Medicine. She is looking forward to greater independence, contributing to Sixth Form committees and societies and preparing for her future beyond RGS.

Hugo particularly values the friendships he has formed and the support he has received from his teachers and the Learning Support department. He will study Spanish, Classical Civilisation and Geography in the RGS Sixth Form and is looking forward to devoting more time to the subjects he enjoys — as well as morning matcha in the Sixth Form café.

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R E I G AT E G R A M M A R S C H O O L

A LEVEL & BTEC RESULTS 2026 Exceptional results opened doors to world-class universities, prestigious apprenticeships and scholarships.

76% OF ALL GRADES AT A* OR A

94%

38%

15%

OF ALL GRADES A* - B

OF ALL GRADES A*

OF STUDENTS ACHIEVED STRAIGHT A*s

From medicine to astrophysics, to blue-chip degree apprenticeships and careers in elite industries, from finance and law to media, management and entrepreneurialism, students at Reigate Grammar School celebrated record-breaking results and headed to employment, world-class universities and extraordinary futures.

The grades were amongst the best in the country, with 94% of A Level grades

at A*–B and 76% at A or A*, while an exceptional 38% of all A Level grades were awarded at A*.

Dozens of students achieved A*s in every one of their A Level subjects, while 77 students achieved standards of A* or A in every subject they studied.

There were many examples of exceptional success, such as 97% of BTEC results awarded at Distinction and every Art student achieving an A*.

These exceptional results open doors of opportunity, but a great education is about enjoying childhood while developing the qualities of character and the futureready skills for a happy and successful adult life.

Headmaster, Shaun Fenton

BTECs at RGS: Bespoke Routes to University As part of our commitment to offer bespoke learning pathways which enable students to thrive, RGS offers the BTEC extended diploma in Business and Sport.

at university, including Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience, Business & Management, Finance, Sport Management and Computer Science.

This highly regarded qualification is equivalent to three A Levels, and students typically complete a BTEC and an A Level, allowing them to explore a second subject of interest.

Students achieved exceptional outcomes in 2026, with 97% of BTEC results awarded at Distinction. These results enabled every student to continue onto their chosen universities, with world-class destinations including Bristol, Exeter,

BTECs open the door to a diverse range of highly competitive subjects

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Nottingham, Bath, Manchester, Newcastle and Loughborough.

Parents are overwhelmingly positive about the BTEC pathway, sharing that they are thrilled that their child had the opportunity to study courses that resulted in excellent outcomes and that offer brilliant preparation for both further study and the world of work.

Watch our A Level Results Day video

ACADEMIC REVIEW 2026

SIXTH FORM SUCCESS STORIES Sarah P Sarah achieved three A*s and will study Medicine and Surgery at Newcastle University. Her interest in medicine developed through a combination of academic research, clinical experience and work with young people. During work experience at The Royal Marsden, she gained insight into acute oncology and the importance of combining scientific knowledge with compassionate patient care.

Sarah’s EPQ explored treatments for neuroblastoma, including the potential of emerging personalised therapies.

This allowed her to investigate how advances in medical research can improve outcomes for children with cancer and strengthened her interest in both cancer research and clinical practice.

Alongside her academic achievements, Sarah was a senior chorister for five years and performed in numerous concerts and school drama productions, including leading roles. She completed the Bronze, Silver and Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards, volunteered with children and worked as a Youth Worker at the YMCA. These experiences developed the communication, responsibility and empathy she will take into her medical studies.

Nathan T Nathan is heading to the University of Bath to study Mechanical and Automotive Engineering, combining his academic strengths with a long-standing passion for Formula One. His fascination with motorsport has inspired him to explore the engineering principles behind the performance, efficiency and innovation of modern racing cars. As co-leader of the RGS Engineering Society, he has shared this enthusiasm with other students and investigated the science shaping the future of the industry.

Nathan has also achieved success in national Physics competitions, including the Isaac Physics Senior Physics Challenge and the British Physics Olympiad. These experiences have strengthened his interest in applying mathematics and physics to complex engineering problems.

Music has been equally important throughout Nathan’s time at RGS. He studies the viola and sings at the Royal College of Music Junior Department and was named RGS Young Musician of the Year 2026. He has performed as a soloist, conducted ensembles and appeared at venues including Battersea Arts Centre and The O2. Nathan credits the discipline, precision and creativity developed through music with supporting and complementing his scientific studies.

Laith B Laith achieved four A*s and will study Aeronautical Engineering at Imperial College London. Having joined the RGS Sixth Form from Kuala Lumpur, he pursued his fascination with how aircraft can fly faster, further and more efficiently. A visit to see Concorde at Aerospace Bristol prompted him to explore the principles behind aircraft design, supported by wider reading including Jet Man and Understanding Flight and online courses in aeronautics.

For his Gold CREST Award, Laith designed and built a wind tunnel to investigate whether biomimetic riblets could reduce drag. He used a load cell to collect measurements and adapted his approach when torque affected the accuracy of his results. He also explored hydrogen propulsion and sustainable aviation fuels, presenting his findings to the Engineering Society. Beyond his academic studies, Laith completed his Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, played football and led a coding competition through the School’s Digital Committee.

Lilla H Lilla joined RGS in the First Form from Reigate St Mary’s and continued her journey through the RGS Sixth Form. She is now heading to Durham University to study Biochemistry, a subject that captured her interest after a gym injury prompted her to consider the biological processes involved in damage, recovery and repair.

This developed into a wider fascination with how biochemical mechanisms influence human health and how scientific research can contribute to new treatments.

At RGS, Lilla shared her enthusiasm for science by leading the Junior Science Club, helping younger students explore scientific ideas through practical activities. She also held significant leadership responsibilities as a Senior Prefect and House Captain, contributing to the wider life of the school.

Alongside her academic studies, Lilla represented RGS in hockey and completed her Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. She also raised more than £5,600 for the Motor Neurone Disease Association by completing a sponsored wing walk. This achievement reflected both her personal courage and her determination to support research and people affected by life-changing conditions.

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R E I G AT E G R A M M A R S C H O O L

LEAVERS’ DESTINATIONS AND CAREERS AMBITIOUS PATHWAYS TO WORLD-CLASS UNIVERSITIES 98% of students received offers from world-class universities Cambridge, Oxford, Imperial and UCL among university destinations Degree apprenticeships in global industries and US sports scholarships

UNIVERSITY DESTINATIONS 2026

Careers Every member of the Fifth Form (and their parents) has a meeting with a senior member of staff to discuss their individual progress, A Level choices, university and career options. Careers and Higher Education profiling is available, including interviews from external experts for our Fifth Form and Sixth Form students.

Scotland Edinburgh 3

North East Durham 16 Leeds 12 Sheffield 5 Newcastle 4

North West Manchester 5 Liverpool 2 Lancaster 1

Midlands Warwick 10 Nottingham 5 Loughborough 3 Birmingham 1

Wales Cardiff 4

East Cambridge 5

All students are invited to careers talks, academic extension societies and careers evenings, all featuring external experts in their field.

There are careers lessons within the PSHEE programme for every year group, with Fourth Form and Lower Sixth students attending a compulsory careers course designed by the Head of Careers.

South West Bath 15 Exeter 12 Bristol 11 Bournemouth 1

South East Southampton 5 Oxford 1 Brighton 1 Surrey 2

London UCL 5 Imperial College 3 King’s College London 3 Queen Mary University 3

Most popular university courses: Law Engineering Biochemistry Accounting & Finance Geography & Earth Sciences History, Politics & International Sport Relations Psychology Buisness Management & Mathematics Marketing Biology Economics Physics/Astrophysics

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Careers specific information evenings include: Art and Design, Health, Accounting and Finance, Engineering, Law and Green careers. We also hold a careers convention and higher education evening and include apprenticeships and degree apprenticeships.

All year groups have access to Unifrog and numerous careers activities.

Careers/UCAS lessons are provided in the Sixth Form, as well as a presentation from experts in university admissions.

Former students come in to take questions from Lower Sixth Form students about their chosen paths.

Dedicated members of staff advise on alternatives to university, applications overseas, interview preparation and Oxbridge applications.

ACADEMIC REVIEW 2026

RGS FOUNDATION Reigate Grammar School has always been about forging strong bonds, and the RGS Foundation continues to build and develop these connections through the Reigatian Hub, an innovative online platform. Designed to support RGS students in their career choices and foster networking among Reigatians worldwide, the Reigatian Hub offers opportunities for all Reigatians to reconnect, grow professionally, and stay engaged with the RGS community.

The Professionals Hub Central to the Reigatian Hub is the Professionals Hub, a space dedicated to helping Reigatians navigate their professional journeys with the support of our global community. The Professionals Hub includes: • Mentor/Mentee Platform: Whether offering guidance as a mentor or seeking advice as a mentee, these connections provide invaluable support through every career stage.

• Work Experience and Jobs Board: Whether entering the workforce or considering a career change, the Professionals Hub platform is a valuable resource to gain experience, share skills and find employment.

• Business Directory: Listing Reigatian-owned businesses across various industries enables those looking to hire, collaborate, or support fellow Reigatians in their professional ventures.

• Resources: The Professionals Hub also shares a variety of professional development materials to help you stay informed and advance in your career.

The Community Hub Beyond professional development, the Reigatian Hub nurtures the personal connections that make the Reigatian community unique. Over time, the Community Hub will offer spaces for Reigatians to connect based on shared experiences, interests, and passions, from sports and the arts to volunteering and travel. In celebration of 350 Years of Reigate Grammar School, we have launched an online archive where you can find photos and publications throughout the school’s history.

Global Reigatian Network From New York to New Zealand, we have ambassadors around the globe who are happy to be a point of contact, offer advice or even provide job opportunities for recent RGS leavers who are taking a gap year or moving abroad.

Please contact us if you think we may be able to help: foundation@reigategrammar.org RGS Foundation events are held all over the world and offer opportunities to network, reconnect, and simply have fun with fellow Reigatians. Always well-attended, these gatherings are not just social events but also chances to create meaningful opportunities. Registering with the Reigatian Hub will enable online booking for events, such as reunions, golf days, sport, music and drama.

After connecting with a recently retired Reigatian through the Reigatian community, I received invaluable advice and guidance ahead of my interviews, which played a key role in securing a position at his previous firm. It really reinforced how powerful the Reigatian network can be not only in offering support and mentorship, but also in fostering a strong sense of connection.

Staying involved with the Reigatian community after leaving RGS is a fantastic way to stay connected, give back, and be part of a network of alumni who genuinely want to see each other succeed.

Jack Grant (Former student)

Please register for the Reigatian Hub using the QR code.

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R E I G AT E G R A M M A R S C H O O L

ACADEMIC MATTERS HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2026 ISI INSPECTION The latest inspection highlights a culture in which pupils are supported to grow as independent thinkers, responsible leaders and active members of their community.

LEADERSHIP WITH PURPOSE

Leaders place the development of pupils’ leadership skills at the centre of their ambitious vision.

They have created a carefully structured programme that develops such skills systematically across all year groups.

“THIS IS A SIGNIFICANT STRENGTH OF THE SCHOOL.”

INSPIRED TO THINK

SUPPORTED TO THRIVE

READY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

The RGS curriculum is ambitious, broad, interesting, rich, dynamic, very flexible; very responsive to pupil feedback and meets the needs of the pupils.

The school’s values are reflected by pupils in a supportive environment of mutual respect and trust.

The programme teaches pupils that leadership has a moral purpose and is about service, responsibility and making a positive difference to others…

This is a significant strength of the school.

Teachers demonstrate high levels of subject knowledge… and develop pupils’ independence of thought There is an embedded coherent programme of leadership development across all year groups; ensuring pupils develop a secure foundation to make informed decisions about their future pathways.

Pupils know how to seek help from adults when they require it… As a result, they feel well cared for.

A rich programme of enrichment activities enables pupils to develop new skills and extend their interests.

Pupils contribute responsibly to the local community.

The RGS vision is to form great people through sport; to develop who they are, values and healthy choices.

READ MORE...

2026 ISI Inspection Report Source: Independent Schools Inspectorate, 2026

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ACADEMIC REVIEW 2026

BEYOND THE GRADES

THE SUNDAY TIMES SCHOOL OF THE YEAR 2025 WINNER

THE SUNDAY TIMES TOP 5 INDEPENDENT CO-ED DAY SCHOOL 2026 FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

PEARSON NATIONAL TEACHING AWARDS HEADTEACHER OF THE YEAR 2026 WINNER

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2026

TES SCHOOL AWARDS 2026 HEADTEACHER OF THE YEAR SHORTLISTED

PRIVATE EDUCATION AWARDS 2026 INDEPENDENT SECONDARY SCHOOL OF THE YEAR WINNER

STUDENT WELLBEING COMMENDED

TALK EDUCATION AWARDS 2025 EQUITY, DIVERSITY & INCLUSION WINNER

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS OF THE YEAR 2025 TES SCHOOL AWARDS 2025 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL OF THE DIVERSITY, EQUALITY, INCLUSION & YEAR JUSTICE SHORTLISTED FINALIST

PRIVATE EDUCATION AWARDS 2026 MUDDY’S BEST SCHOOLS AWARDS EXCELLENCE IN HOLISTIC STUDENT AWESOME SIXTH FORM DEVELOPMENT HIGHLY COMMENDED WINNER

PRIVATE EDUCATION AWARDS 2026 MOST ENRICHING LEARNING ENVIRONMENT WINNER

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Reigate Grammar is the sort of school that will pause lessons for snowman-building and install a fairground in the summer term to ease exam-season anxieties.

Tatler Schools Guide 2025

Reigate Grammar School, Reigate Road, Reigate, Surrey RH2 0QS 01737 222231 admissions@reigategrammar.org reigategrammar.org