Schooldays are to be cherished. This time is to explore, to learn, to grow.
At RGS Guildford, every young person is encouraged to become their own extraordinary self. Our school is a place where each student is offered an exceptional education within a community shaped by warmth, identity and shared purpose.
As we become a co-educational school, we are excited to welcome students into an environment where they can learn and flourish together. We are immensely proud of our 500 year heritage, yet equally proud of our inclusive, forward-looking culture. Together, these qualities create an environment that prepares students for a world that is continually evolving.
Students flourish here because they are in a place where they are known, supported and challenged in thoughtful, balanced ways. They join a close-knit community of curious, like-minded learners who genuinely enjoy discovering more about the world and about themselves. This shared enthusiasm creates the vibrant academic energy felt by students and teachers alike.
Our hope is for RGS students, strengthened by their broad achievements and rooted in the values we have upheld for centuries, to carry the distinctive RGS spirit into the world. We want them to be recognised not only for their knowledge and talents, but also for their respectful intelligence and compassionate character, qualities that enrich their own lives and the lives of others.
RGS Guildford. Timeless values shared futures.
I am often asked what it is that makes the RGS so special?
For me, it is the way we bring together young people from many backgrounds into a closeknit, supportive community that celebrates individuality and where kindness, compassion and good humour shape daily life.
Our students are polite and understated, yet sparky and relentlessly inquisitive, qualities that create the atmosphere behind our students’ exceptional levels of achievement and the genuine enjoyment of learning that runs through the school.
Our dedicated staff are integral in shaping our students' experience, bringing expertise, warmth and unwavering commitment to each interaction. By fostering curiosity and encouraging students to think courageously and creatively, our teachers ensure that learning is not only rigorous but inspiring. It is this combination of academic ambition and genuine care that enables every student to belong and to flourish, both within school and far beyond it.
This sense of belonging extends far beyond our grounds and we are proud of our place in the local community, where joint activities with many local schools and our town-centre location ensure learning and collaboration are experienced within a wider context. For generations, the RGS has nurtured a generosity of spirit that inspires students to make a positive difference in their own lives and in the lives of others; a spirit that continues far beyond their schooldays.
Our students look back on their time at the RGS with genuine fondness. We encourage every individual to immerse themselves in school life and explore every opportunity on offer throughout each term and year they spend with us. By doing this, students discover their abilities, their interests and their passions, allowing them to develop into the wellrounded young adults they become.
We hope you enjoy finding out more about our school and we look forward to welcoming you soon.
DR JON COX
"Pupils develop social skills, confidence and selfesteem, ensuring they are well prepared for life.”
ISI Inspection, 2025
Built on heritage, inspired by the future.
With more than 500 years of history, the RGS carries a deep sense of identity. Yet while our past strengthens us, we remain focused on the needs of today’s young people.
We balance evolution and change with a steady commitment to our core values. You can see this juxtaposition of past and present in the modern teaching of classical subjects and the blend of contemporary and historic spaces that form an inspiring backdrop to learning.
Ultimately, this timeless quality is reflected in our students: they respect tradition while bringing a distinctly fresh perspective and energy to everything they do.
At RGS, inquisitive students meet teachers who bring both deep subject knowledge and genuine warmth to the classroom.
Relationships are built on mutual respect, creating a positive environment where questions are welcomed, new avenues are explored and learning flourishes. This is the “magic ingredient” that makes the RGS experience more than the sum of its parts. For our students, their journey with us through their education is truly as rewarding as the results they will achieve.
Academic rigour and outstanding results are the hallmark of an RGS education, as are the Learning Habits that we integrate throughout the curriculum and cocurriculum to nurture independent, lateral thinkers who approach challenges with flexibility, resilience and self-belief.
Enthusiastic learners, passionate educators.
"The mentoring, volunteering and leadership opportunities provided have been outstanding.”
RGS Parent
We support our students in embedding scholarship and embodying our values.
The rounded nature of an RGS education ensures that students grow into both academically capable and emotionally confident young people.
Each individual knows that their wellbeing and personal growth are at the heart of every decision the School makes, and they feel a strong sense of belonging within the RGS family.
Throughout the community, there is an expectation and willingness to look out for one another. This is consistently demonstrated by both staff and senior students, nurturing a shared set of values that endure for life.
"The quality of teaching, of extra curricular opportunities, of pastoral care have all impressed us deeply.”
RGS Parent
THIS IS OUR HOME
The origins of the RGS can be traced back to 1509.
Our history dates back over 500 years when Robert Beckingham left provisions in his will to found a “free schole” in Guildford for bright local children without means.
Much has changed since then, but we have remained faithful to decency, integrity and service and to our commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.
"A wonderful provider of a learning environment in which the pupils are very happy and conduct themselves in an exemplary manner.”
RGS Parent
Founded on Christian principles, we are non-denominational and welcome students of all faiths and none, celebrating diversity and individuality at every level.
IS OUR HOME
The RGS has been a central part of life in Guildford for over 500 years.
Both in location and spirit, we are rooted in a sense of community, and we place high importance on collaboration, service and partnership as values to be nurtured in school, in our town and in the world.
Our students gain an appreciation of their potential to enrich the lives of others. Charity, volunteering and philanthropy are woven into school life alongside a concern for sustainability and the environment. From donating time and resources to local conservation projects, to fundraising via sleep outs, and spending time with residents at local care homes, students recognise their ability to contribute positively to both the local and wider community.
Our educational partnerships broaden students’ appreciation of the world beyond the school gates. These experiences offer perspective and allow them to put into practice values such as empathy, compassion and collaboration. We live in a time where co-operation and openmindedness have never been more important, and RGS students are both equipped with a sense of their responsibility and driven to make a tangible difference.
"Strong academic culture leads to pupils who readily engage in critical thinking and deep learning and display intellectual curiosity.”
ISI Inspection, 2025
THE RGS EXPERIENCE
The RGS is a kind, inclusive, tolerant community where diverse opportunity, personal development, high achievement and collaborative partnership define who we are, and where our values underpin all we do.
Our School Values are at the very heart of our ethos.
Inclusivity
We remain loyal to our founding principles to educate bright local students, irrespective of background or financial circumstances, and we inherently believe in establishing a culture of diversity and acceptance, and in educating our students in a welcoming, tolerant community where each individual is valued and enjoys a deep sense of belonging.
Integrity Scholarship
We encourage the growth of intellectual curiosity, independence, creativity, innovation and habits of learning within a scholarly community through inspirational subject specialists who provoke and stretch the students’ minds and inculcate a lifelong love of learning.
We promote the development of self-discipline and responsibility, spirituality and a personal moral code, and cultivate an ethos where enduring qualities of decency, honesty, courtesy, humility and good humour are celebrated.
Courage Respect
We nurture an atmosphere of mutual respect between all members of our community, and foster self-respect and selfesteem in terms of physical health, emotional maturity and personal well-being, while establishing lasting friendships in a positive, happy environment.
We develop leadership, teamwork, resilience and life skills through a diverse range of activities where all students, regardless of their talents and attributes, are encouraged to challenge themselves, take appropriate risks and work hard to fulfil their potential.
"Kindness, tolerance and mutual respect pervade every aspect of school life.”
ISI Inspection, 2025
Collaboration
We work closely with others for mutual enrichment, and encourage a spirit of generosity and service, a sense of perspective, and a firm belief that we can work in partnership with others, locally and internationally, to make a difference and have a positive impact on society.
Every individual that joins the RGS has an enviable capacity to learn. Our focus is to realise that potential through inspirational teaching and by building confidence and ambition.
Lessons are stimulating, creative and challenging; debate and discussion are encouraged; digital learning sits alongside traditional methods; healthy competition is balanced with support and friendship.
Academic ambition and outstanding results are hallmarks of an RGS education. Our Learning Habits are integrated across the curriculum and co curriculum to nurture independent, lateral thinkers who approach challenges with flexibility, resilience and self belief.
THE RGS EXPERIENCE
There is no questioning the academic potential within each student.
Wellbeing and pastoral care are at the heart of the RGS experience.
Students flourish when they feel happy and confident. Our pastoral approach is patient, compassionate and carefully aligned with the needs of students throughout their school journey.
Students can turn to Form Tutors, Heads of Year, Section Heads, the
School Counsellor or the School Nurse. Our Special Educational Needs team provides tailored plans to help overcome barriers to learning. The House system and peer mentoring reflect strong relationships and a culture of openness, ensuring students have space to breathe.
Together, this network of care empowers every student to feel valued, supported and ready to thrive both academically and personally.
THE RGS EXPERIENCE
"Pupils develop a breadth of knowledge and enthusiasm for scholarship.”
ISI Inspection, 2025
WHAT WE INSPIRE
Our inclusive philosophy allows participation and enjoyment to sit alongside elite coaching and competition at county, national and international level. Whatever the level, students embrace the rewards that sport can bring.
We have an enviable reputation in our major sports: rugby, hockey, cricket and football with netball becoming a major sport as we become co-educational. We enjoy an enviable reputation in more specialist pursuits including tennis, athletics, judo, sailing and shooting. Facilities include an on-site Sports Hall, gym, shooting range, astroturf pitch and climbing wall, as well as 20 acres of picturesque grounds at Bradstone Brook in the Surrey Hills.
Dedicated coaching staff nurture talent, supported by regular fixtures against leading schools and overseas tours. Guidance on nutrition and training complements a holistic focus on a healthy body and mind.
WHAT WE INSPIRE
Sport is central to daily life.
The creative arts are prized as a way of developing artistic skill, self-expression and joy.
Our performance spaces, including a 180 seat Auditorium and Drama Studio offer students the perfect stage to perform in front of their peers, families and the whole school community.
Regular productions with impressive sets, costumes and musical scores ensure that every student has the opportunity to build their confidence, collaborate creatively and experience the excitement of live performance.
In Art and Design & Technology, bright, airy, dedicated studios and professional standard workshops inspire students to develop their skills and master techniques. With opportunities to learn and practise sculpture, mixed media, woodwork, metalwork and 3D printing, as well as more traditional art forms, students are given a broad appreciation of all areas of art and design.
Learning is a balance of projectbased work and problem-solving. This encourages students to both conceive a concept and plan its development and to adapt to their work as the project evolves.
Imagination and practical skills go hand in hand and our corridors and displays are a living gallery that celebrate students' creative vision and practical talent.
WHAT WE INSPIRE
Music and drama are as much about energy and expression as they are about artistry and skill.
Music thrives at RGS. Walking through the Old Building, you might hear any of our many choirs and ensembles in rehearsal.
Over 300 one-to-one lessons take place each week, and students showcase their musicality in concerts and recitals at inspiring venues, from historic school spaces to St
Mark’s Basilica in Venice. These touring opportunities and collaborative projects further broaden horizons, fostering confidence and a lifelong love of performance.
Performance is also at the heart of our drama studies. Recent productions range from Oliver!
and Ernie's Incredible Illucinations to A Christmas Carol and John Godber's Bouncers. LAMDA and professional workshops help unlock talent, while opportunities in lighting, sound, costume and make up, set construction and stage management develop technical skills and ensure everyone has a valued role.
WHAT WE INSPIRE
Every individual will enjoy opportunities to embrace a wide variety of interests and new experiences.
Students can rest assured they will be inspired, encouraged, challenged, and supported through our vast co-curricular programme.
By pushing at the edge of their comfort zone, students can build self-confidence and self-belief, whether they are learning to cook a curry from scratch, tackling a muddy assault course or giving a talk to their peers about a sensitive topical issue.
A choice of more than 70 clubs and societies gives every student plenty of opportunity for discovery. From the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award to the
Combined Cadet Force, and from mastering ceramics to becoming an articulate debater or budding entrepreneur, there is truly something for everyone.
We also ensure students have plenty of opportunity to apply themselves to co-curricular activities through dedicated space in the timetable as well as five Field Days in the year and the provision of regular local and overseas trips. Beyond the chance to simply participate in an activity they enjoy, it’s a valuable way of learning something new about themselves while standing shoulder to shoulder with their friends.
WHAT WE INSPIRE
Joint Schools’ Chamber Choir ● Young
Enterprise ● Sailing Club ● Athletics Club ●
Film Society ● Badminton ● Spanish Debating ●
Fencing Club ● Big Band ● Philosophy Discussion
Group ● CAD Club ● Photography Society ●
Swimming Club ● Ukulele Club ● Ceramics Club ●
Star Wars Society ● Card Society ● RGS Pride
Society ● Chamber Music ● Warhammer ● Chess
Club ● Choir ● Quest ● Symphony Orchestra ●
Scientific Society ● Concerto Consort ● Christian
Union ● Cross Country ● Strings ● Jumping
Fleas ● Squash Club ● Junior Classics Society ●
Air Rifle Club ● Drama Club ● History Society ●
Judo Club ● Lit Quiz Club ● Drone Club ● Brass
Quartet ● Philosophy Society ● Science Club ●
Table Tennis Club ● Amnesty ● Wind Ensemble ●
Drama Society ● Languages Society ● Maths
Club ● Senior Classics Society ● Magic Society ●
Concert Band ● Manga and Anime Club ● Code
Breaking ● Medical Society ● Model United
Nations Society ● Puzzle Club ● Seymour
Society ● Robotics Club ● Basketball ● Ski
Racing Club ● Sceptics Society ● Schola
Cantorum ● Wind Quartet ● Robotics ● String
Quartet ● Swing Band ● Technical Theatre
Club ● Charity and Volunteering ●
"We can't ask more from a school! You have set them up well for the future.”
RGS Parent
A BRIGHT FUTURE
Our Sixth Form is the stepping stone to a bright future.
With smaller classes and seminar-style teaching, Sixth Form students focus on the subjects they love and take greater ownership of their learning.
Almost all progress to leading higher education institutions including Oxford, Cambridge, Russell Group and Ivy League universities and top medical schools as well as apprenticeships and other post-18 opportunities.
Dedicated mentoring, enrichment lectures and leadership opportunities further challenge students to deepen their expertise and grow in confidence as independent thinkers.
We support students at every stage of their journey beyond school, ensuring choices reflect their strengths and ambitions. We keep an eye on the world beyond our gates, helping students develop entrepreneurial awareness, critical and creative thinking, problem solving and teamwork; the habits of mind they will need for the future.
University Destinations:
The strength of our community sits at the heart of the RGS philosophy. We are deeply proud of our Old Guildfordians (OGs), whose values of respect, integrity and courage help them thrive wherever life takes them.
We encourage students to think independently and to have confidence in their convictions; it is no surprise that many OGs become leaders in their fields.
Our relationship with OGs and their families continues to flourish long after they have left the school. We enjoy a longstanding connection with our alumni through regular communications and events, and with OGs generously giving time to support current students, our network helps with the journey from school to higher education and work.
Indeed the statement “You’ll always be part of the RGS” couldn’t be more accurate, a reality of which we are incredibly proud.
A BRIGHT FUTURE
A lifelong community.
Admissions
Our main entry points are: 11+ & 16+
Entry into other year groups may be possible if spaces become available.
The admissions process at RGS is exemplary, with a dedication to customer service at each stage of the journey.
- Independent review by RSAcademics
Students apply to us each year at 11+ from over Approximately
120 different schools
50% State Primary
50%
Prep School
students register to sit our 11+ assessments.
Your exciting and inspiring Open Day won our child’s heart from the moment they stepped in. Everyone could not have been more welcoming or more friendly.
- Prospective parent
Scholarships
are available at both 11+ & 16+ in:
Academic
Art Drama Music Sport
Means-tested financial assistance of up to 110% fee remission
is available.
Thank you so much for making this process painless and even enjoyable.
- Prospective parent
The majority of our students travel on public transport, using the regular bus and train links to Guildford.
It has been an incredibly smooth process: your personal touch and attention to detail, kindness and patient support set you apart from other schools.
- Prospective parent
Our students come predominately from throughout Surrey but also the borders of Sussex & Hampshire
Travelling to School
We do not have a designated catchment area for prospective students; students travel to the RGS from throughout Surrey and also from the borders of Berkshire, Hampshire and Sussex.
Located in the heart of the busy town of Guildford, we benefit from excellent transport links. The vast majority of our students take public transport and we also encourage our pupils to throw themselves into the extra-curricular life of the RGS, some of which takes place after school. As such, we recommend that a travel time of approximately 30 minutes is sensible to allow students to have a good home-school balance.
Trainlines
Time by train
09-12 minutes
21-40 minutes
33-36 minutes
42-60 minutes
Esher Addlestone
Camberley
RGS Guildford
Dorking
Epsom
Leatherhead
Godalming
Haslemere
Clandon London Road (Guildford)
Farnham Woking
Alton
Surbiton
Wimbledon
Crowthorne
Cobham
Blackwater
Guildford
Some AI generated images are used in this document for illustrative purposes.
"My children absolutely adore school life at RGS. They have wonderful friends, feel happy, secure, supported academically and respect their teachers.”
RGS Parent
This prospectus describes the broad principles on which the school is presently run and does not form part of any contractual agreement between parents or guardians and the school. Royal Grammar School Guildford is a company limited by guarantee incorporated in England and Wales. Company Number 10874615. Registered charity number 1177353.
