The Review 2025-26

2026 Exam Results Overview CELEBRATING ACADEMIC SUCCESS

University Destinations READY FOR THE ROAD AHEAD

Independent Reviews AN EXCEPTIONAL EDUCATION

REVIEW

2025-2026

THE

Our School Values are at the very heart of our ethos.

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INCLUSIVITY

SCHOLARSHIP

INTEGRITY

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.

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.

RESPECT

COURAGE

COLLABORATION

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 wellbeing, 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.

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.

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As soon as the sun finally emerges each year, the media are always quick to quote the summer of 1976 as one of the most remarkable and enduring in UK memory; it has become a benchmark against which hot, dry summers are measured.

Fast-forward 50 years and I have no doubt that 2026 will be uttered in the same breath. It was not only the temperatures, however, which proved record-breaking. Our students were truly exceptional as they flourished on the international stage in everything from pole vault to science Olympiads, while collectively our GCSE students achieved the most number of grade 9s ever achieved by an RGS year group when sitting GCSE examinations, 901 in total, and an astonishing 81% of all grades at either a Grade 8 or 9.

“If our students are happy then they have the potential to harbour the most ambitious of aspirations, and then to achieve their goals.”

As I reflect on the past year and the achievements celebrated in this edition of The Review, it is clear, however, that the success of the RGS stems not from any single measure, but from the totality of the experience we provide.

Examination results may secure a job interview, but they rarely secure the job itself. What truly shapes young people are the experiences, opportunities and relationships that develop character, confidence and resilience. Whether performing on stage, competing in sport, debating in Model United Nations, exploring new horizons on expeditions, or serving others through mentoring, volunteering and charitable work, every aspect of school life contributes to the development of the individual.

This commitment is rooted in the values that have defined the RGS for more than 500 years: inclusivity, scholarship, integrity, respect, courage

and collaboration. These principles have enabled generations of students to become confident yet humble individuals who think independently, care deeply about others and seek to make a positive impact on society. They remain as relevant today as they have ever been.

At the same time, great schools must never stand still. Educationalist Roy Blatchford describes the most successful schools as both secure in their values and restless in their pursuit of improvement. That philosophy resonates strongly at the RGS. We are proud of our heritage and traditions, yet we continually reflect, innovate and evolve to ensure we provide the very best education for our students.

Nowhere is this more evident than in our transition to co-education. While preserving everything that makes an RGS education distinctive, we are opening that opportunity to girls for the first time in our history. Girls will benefit from the same exceptional education that generations of boys have enjoyed: an academically ambitious environment, outstanding pastoral care, rich co-curricular opportunities and a culture built on respect, kindness and aspiration. Co-education represents not a departure from our values but an extension of them.

As I walk through the School each day, I am always struck by the energy, warmth and ambition of our students.

Their enthusiasm, laughter and sense of purpose create an environment in which young people can flourish. If this edition of The Review demonstrates anything, it is that the future of the RGS is every bit as exciting as its remarkable past.

Dr Jon Cox, Headmaster

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RGS Family In 5th-century Greece, the storyteller Aesop in his fable The Bundle of Sticks illustrated the moral that there is strength in unity. Motivational quotes on the power of togetherness abound: united we stand, divided we fall, being just one such example. A close-knit community has always been at the very heart of the RGS. Friendship and camaraderie, openness and honesty, shared values and ethos – all with a ready smile – mean students and staff, parents and governors all pull in the same direction. As Henry Ford once said, “Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is success.” #RGSTogether.

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"Kindness, tolerance and mutual respect pervade every aspect of school life."

- ISI Inspection

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Academic 6

Academic enrichment is about so much more than grades and exam percentages, never more so than in the current climate. The growth of intellectual curiosity, independence, creativity, habits of learning within a scholarly community are all at the heart of an RGS education.

World Book Week World Book Week, our largest to date and held during the National Year of Reading, provided an enriching programme of author visits, workshops and assemblies.

Award-winning writer, Simon James Green, led creative sessions for the Third Form, focusing on crafting authentic characters through detailed consideration of voice, relationships and personal traits. J.P. Rose inspired First and Second Form students through reflections on identity and representation, alongside workshops on conveying emotion through action and metaphor. The week concluded with Carnegie Medal winner Anthony McGowan, whose assemblies and workshops encouraged vivid description and imaginative storytelling, with students producing thoughtful and engaging work throughout.

Individual Highlights RGS students enjoyed outstanding success in national competitions. In the UK Biology Challenge, 56% of entrants earned medals, including 10 Gold Awards for students placed in the top 5% nationally.

In the Intermediate Biology Olympiad, taken by more than 16,000 students across the country.

Thomas and Oscar both achieved Gold, with four further students receiving Silver. In the International Biology Olympiad held in Lithuania, Daniel came 62nd out of 302 candidates securing a silver medal.

In the Cambridge Chemistry Challenge, involving 15,337 students nationwide, RGS students secured 9 Gold, 15 Silver and 7 Copper Awards. The national Physics Challenge also brought exceptional results, with RGS students earning 66 Gold, 84 Silver and 6 Bronze Awards.

200 Seconds An established part of our Scholarship for All programme, the 200 Seconds Competition gives students in the First and Second Forms the opportunity to present on a topic of their choice, inspired by a shared theme, within a strict 200-second time limit. This year’s theme, Journeys, inspired a fascinating range of talks, from the life of Winston Churchill to the remarkable achievements of British ultramarathon runner Jasmin Paris. Our four finalists – Jeremiah and Will from the First Form, and Elliot and Tom from the Second Form – captivated the audience with presentations delivered with exceptional maturity, confidence and enthusiasm.

"Pupils develop a breadth of knowledge and enthusiasm for scholarship. This is a significant strength of the school."

- ISI Inspection

Independent Learning Assignment The ILA/ORIS Celebration Evening was a highlight of our Scholarship for All programme, bringing together nearly 100 students, parents, staff and friends of the School. Guests enjoyed presentations from shortlisted Upper Sixth students showcasing exceptional work from the Independent Learning Assignment (ILA) and Original Research in Science (ORIS).

After an evening of confident and insightful talks, prizes were awarded to Joe (ILA STEM), Oscar (ILA Arts/Humanities) and Yuvan (ORIS) who undertook research with Professor David Hewett at University College London.

Our first Junior ILA Celebration Evening marked the end of a competition where Third and Fourth Form students, mentored

by Sixth Formers, presented impressive research at a lively science fair, showcasing strong inquiry and ambition.

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GCSE Results RGS students were rewarded for two years of impressive endeavour, disciplined application and rigorous preparation with an outstanding set of GCSE results.

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69 students achieved

ten or more grade 8 or 9s

Most common grade was 9

901

grade 9s were achieved

"

This year’s results were truly exceptional as the talented cohort achieved the highest number of grade 9s ever achieved by an RGS year group when sitting GCSE examinations. Our students can continue to find their own pathway through the School and achieve the very highest standards, irrespective of their individual passions and interests.

"

Dr Jon Cox, Headmaster

7% 57%

12% 24%

This information is correct as of 20.08.26

Grade 9 Grade 8 Grade 7 Other

A Level Results We could not be more impressed by the way our Class of 2026 have conducted themselves. Not only have they been excellent leaders and role models, they have also fully immersed themselves in the broader life of the School and been a thoroughly decent, humble and inspirational year group.

9%

19%

A*

34%

A B

38%

Other

This information is correct as of 13.08.26

"

They have developed themselves personally as leaders and collaborative team members; they have nurtured their passion and thirst for learning outside the classroom; they have performed admirably in the cocurricular spheres; most importantly, however, they have consistently conducted themselves with pride and determination.

Dr Jon Cox, Headmaster

"

34%

70 students

72%

of grades were

three or four

of grades were

A*s

achieved

A*s & As

A* or A

9

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University Destinations ED

TOP UNIVERSITY DESTINATIONS EX

University Exeter

BA Bath D Durham O C S N L W U ED

Oxford Cambridge Southampton Nottingham Leeds Warwick UCL Edinburgh Overseas

D

No. of students 21 18 17 10

L

9 7 7 6 6 5 5 1

N

W

O

Other common destinations for RGS students include Imperial College, Loughborough, King’s College London, Bristol, Leicester, St Andrews, Sheffield and York.

BA S

EX

92%

RUSSELL GROUP In 2026, 92% of all offers held to UK institutions were to a Russell Group or Times Top 20 Institutions; 56% were to a university ranked in the global top 100.

200

52%

students have received

have taken up places at

OXBRIDGE OFFERS

OXBRIDGE, DURHAM, BATH, EXETER AND BRISTOL

in the last 10 years.

FIRST CHOICE UNIVERSITY

OF STUDENTS

in the last 10 years.

In 2026, 111 students went to their first-choice institutions: securing places on the most competitive courses at the leading universities in the country.

TOP DEGREE COURSES Subject

C

U

No. of students

Economics

25

Sciences

23

Engineering

21

Philosophy

14

Business/Finance Management

13

Maths/Computer Science

12

Politics/International Relations

5

History

5

Medicine/Veterinary

4

Geography

3

Modern Languages

3

Music

3

Classics/Archaelogy

2

Joint or Combined Honours

2

Law

2

Theology and Religion

2

English

1

Real Estate

1

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ART “The RGS allows students to be creative and explorative when showing passion for their chosen subjects.”

- RGS Parent

The inspirational surroundings of the Art School,

together with the dedication, expertise and encouragement of its staff, once again helped to nurture work of exceptional quality and originality from our students. This was celebrated in the annual Summer Exhibition, which showcased the outstanding

achievements of the year. A rich variety of styles, techniques and media was on display, featuring work from both GCSE and A Level students, alongside entries for competitions such as the House Art Competition. Throughout the year, students demonstrated remarkable creativity, innovation

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and artistic maturity in a diverse body of work.

The annual House Art Competition attracted an impressive range of submissions from students across the School, working in a variety of media.

At its heart is The Smoothey Prize, which honours Ronald Smoothey MBE, a former student and Art

master whose enthusiasm, imagination and individuality continue to inspire young artists today. This year’s theme, Transformations, prompted a wealth of imaginative and thought-provoking responses, resulting in entries of exceptional quality and ingenuity.

Design & Technology 14

The John Brown Building houses our stunning Design and Technology Centre with state-of-the-art rooms and cutting-edge technology.

This environment allows students to continue to innovate, to refine and develop a range of practical skills and to realise their ambitious designs in various media: whether it is junior students participating in the Great Egg Race or older students completing more advanced projects and design.

Experienced, committed staff are always on hand to advise, support and inspire.

Gaming controller holder

Lithophane Headphone stand

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Electric buggy with a microcontroller Students engaged in a variety of challenging and rewarding DT projects, from designing and building microcontrollers and buggies to assembling Bluetooth speakers. Another project tasked students with creating products for teenage lifestyles, leading to ideas such as headphone stands, gaming controller holders and a cricket lithophane.

Throughout these projects, students developed a wide range of technical skills, including soldering, circuitry, 3D printing, laser cutting, coding, CAD design and the proficient use of workshop machinery.

Lamp made of repurposed materials

Bluetooth speakers

DRAMA 16

Drama saw a diverse range of plays being staged – from traditional classics to original productions – maintaining a commitment to provide access for all students to experience, and contribute to, every aspect of the creative process from page to stage, from acting and performing to lighting, sound and set. Close collaboration with local girls' schools continued to be the hallmark of many of the opportunities provided.

A Christmas Carol The production of A Christmas Carol captured the warmth, wonder and timeless message of Dickens’ classic tale.

Following the journey of the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge as he is visited by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future, the story explores the transformative power of kindness, generosity and redemption. A cast of 38 students brought Victorian London vividly to life through engaging performances, lively choreography and moments of both humour and poignancy. Atmospheric lighting, authentic costumes, creative staging and evocative sound effects helped create a festive world filled with Christmas spirit. Combining memorable storytelling with an uplifting message of community and goodwill, the production proved a heartwarming celebration of one of literature’s most enduring festive favourites.

"The combined cast delivered energetic performances, strong vocals and dynamic choreography."

Guys & Dolls The joint GHS/RGS production of Guys and Dolls brought together students from both schools for a hugely enjoyable evening of musical theatre. Set in 1950s New York, the story follows a colourful cast of gamblers, showgirls and dreamers as unexpected relationships challenge their ambitions and change their lives. The combined cast delivered energetic performances, strong vocals and dynamic choreography, capturing the humour, charm and heart of this much-loved musical. Popular musical numbers were performed with confidence and flair, while vibrant costumes and detailed staging brought the bustling world of Broadway to life. Full of heart, energy and infectious fun, this joint production was a resounding success and a testament to the hard work, creativity and talent of everyone involved.

Arabian Nights

Arabian Nights was a vibrant and entertaining celebration of storytelling, transporting audiences into a world of adventure, mystery and magic. The production followed a cruel king whose outlook is transformed through a series of imaginative tales, including the adventures of Ali Baba, Aladdin and a humble fisherman.

With a cast of more than 40 students, the show combined energetic performances, humour, music and inventive staging to bring each story to life. Atmospheric lighting, a versatile set and lively choreography created a colourful visual spectacle, while the themes of love, hope and the healing power of stories provided a heartwarming conclusion. The result was a joyful, enchanting production that delighted audiences throughout.

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Another inspiring year for music at the RGS incorporated performances

in settings from the intimate to the grand scale, from local to further afield, from the Recital Room, Holy Trinity Church, The Boileroom and Christ Church to Evensong in iconic locations. The quality of musicianship impressed appreciative audiences and further cemented the School’s established reputation for musicality at the very highest level.

Concerto Concert Our annual Concerto Concert with Southern Pro Musica at Holy Trinity Church showcased the exceptional talent, dedication and musicianship of 11 soloists and singers. The demanding and varied programme featured works spanning a range of styles and periods, with students demonstrating impressive technical skill, musical maturity and expressive artistry. Particularly memorable were the powerful vocal performances and ambitious concerto movements, all delivered with confidence and musical insight.

MUSIC

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St John Passion The March performance of Bach’s St John Passion was an exceptional artistic and educational achievement, of a scale and quality that very few schools nationally would be able to realise. The work’s considerable complexity was met with outstanding musicianship from a large student chorus, a predominantly student-led chamber orchestra and an extensive cast of student soloists.

Performed with remarkable precision, confidence and stylistic assurance, the concert was described as “incredibly moving and impressive”. Reflecting years of sustained musical training and commitment, it showcased both the depth of talent across the school and the exceptional musical opportunities available to students.

Musical Notes

Musician of the Year

A full and varied programme included a succession of highlights: the Joint Schools’ Chamber Choir, in conjunction with Guildford High School, made a return visit to sing Evensong at St Paul’s Cathedral on Remembrance Day as well as making their inaugural visit to sing at St George’s Chapel, Windsor.

Musician of the Year and the Concerto Concert with Southern Pro Musica remain firm favourites of the musical year and are fantastic opportunities to showcase the outstanding levels of musicianship in the School. Holy Trinity Church was not only the venue for the popular monthly Market Day concerts, but also for the Orchestral Concert in November, which featured works by both Ravel and Fauré . Other school concerts included the Ensembles Concert, the Junior and Senior Piano Concerts, and the biannual rock gig at The Boileroom.

For more than 25 years, RGS Musician of the Year has provided a platform for the School’s finest young performers. Following a fiercely contested preliminary round featuring 16 musicians, seven finalists delivered an evening of exceptional music-making, combining technical brilliance with impressive musical maturity.

This year’s competition was adjudicated by distinguished musician Joseph McHardy, who praised the outstanding standard on display. After careful deliberation, Joseph was awarded the Steynor Prize for his remarkable performance of the first movement of Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No. 3, becoming the first performer in the competition’s history to win the prize twice.

GALLERY

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21

Field Days

Over

70

clubs

11-10-25 12:30

104

DofE Awards

The range, number and diversity of Clubs and Societies continues to impress, catering to every interest and passion, for the active and the cerebral equally!

HIKING

5

22

27-03-26 09:00

Co-curricular

Every Monday afternoon, the co-curricular life of the School takes precedence during Period 8 activities; half the students are involved in the Combined Cadet Force and Outdoor Pursuits.

27-03-26 09:00

MOUNTAIN BIKING

11-10-25 12:30

During the last 12 months over 200 students have taken part in Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expeditions; we have also presented 58 Bronze, 26 Silver and 20 Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards.

CULTURAL DANCE

On our five Field Days each year, the normal teaching timetable is suspended; every single student and member of staff is involved in co-curricular pursuits.

BUSHCRAFT

DRA

MA

CLIM

BING 08-0

2-26

10:3

0 SUR

FING

23

27-0

3

CCF CADETS

THORP

E PARK

RAF CADETS

The exceptional range of co-curricular activities is one of the greatest strengths of the School. Such activities are central in developing the character of the students and in nurturing teamwork, leadership, independence and resilience. Equally importantly, the diversity and richness of experience allow each individual to find their passions and follow their own path, wherever that may lead them.

K LEY PAR BLETCH

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History Trip to France and Belgium

ip to Spain

Modern Languages Tr

TRIPS One academic year. Over a hundred and fifty trips. Academic, adventurous, cultural, sporting. All year groups. All corners of the globe. All unforgettable opportunities and experiences.

The following are just a few, very selective highlights.

Ski Trip to Les Deux Alpes

Music Tour to Italy with GHS

ip to France

Modern Languages Tr

25

Nepal Expedition

Ski Racing in Switzerland

with Tormead

Over 150 experiences

Classics Trip to Italy

Student Ambassador Tr

ip to Nanjing

Rugby Tour to South Africa

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Wide-spread participation, energy and passion, sportsmanship, fair play and diverse opportunity.

"

Major Sport The philosophy of Sport for All was very much in evidence throughout the year as over 20 teams regularly played competitive fixtures against other schools at weekends; a challenging fixture list saw the RGS students pitch themselves – and impress – against some of the very best schools in the south-east, gaining national recognition in the process. Wide-spread participation, energy and passion, sportsmanship and fair play, diverse opportunity, along with elite coaching and performance continued to be the hallmarks of RGS sport.

Notable achievements In another outstanding year of sport, the following highlights stand out both individually and collectively: the U15A rugby team reaching the Continental Tyres Schools Plate National Final as runners-up, the School’s first appearance in a national rugby

final for over 30 years; the U18A rugby team progressing to the Continental Tyres Schools Plate National Semi-Finals; the U16 VII side being crowned RGS Sevens Plate Winners; the introduction of U18 and U15 basketball teams competing in a league for the first time in RGS history; the U15A and U14A cricket teams both reaching the Surrey Schools Semi-Finals; the establishment of a regular RGS Golf Club; the School’s inaugural participation in U12 and U13 cricket sixes tournaments; 93 Under 12 students representing the School in the annual Super Judd rugby fixtures; an impressive 612 sports fixtures played across the Prep and Senior Schools; and representative honours for students in sports ranging from rugby to swimming, from hockey to fencing, from cricket to squash, from athletics to tennis, as well as football, badminton and cross-country.

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28

29

"

Every student belongs in sport where confidence, respect and a lifelong love of movement are nurtured.

Sport for All

As well as wide-spread participation, our philosophy of Sport for All encourages each individual to find their passion and nurture their talent, irrespective of which field that may be. Our impressive onsite facilities including the Sports Hall, modern fitness suite, astro pitch, shooting range and climbing wall are supplemented by our enviable 20-acre sports ground at Bradstone Brook in the picturesque Surrey Hills, as well as the use of state-of-the-art facilities in Guildford and the local area.

With supportive, inspiring and high-level coaching the opportunities for RGS students are extensive and exciting.

"

CHARITY

NOMINATED CHARITIES

With over 50 charities put forward by staff and students and over 700 votes, the genuine engagement in this year's charities spoke volumes for the desire of the whole community to make a difference to others. In addition to individual events which fundraised for charities including Transform Housing & Support, our nominated local, national, and international charities were as follows: Phyllis Tuckwell (local): Macmillan Cancer Support (national); and UNICEF (international).

SLEEP OUT

66 students and 8 staff took part in the annual sleep out in the Quads to raise money for Transform Housing & Support, a local charity based in Leatherhead. The sleep out itself was a stark reminder of how difficult life can be without the security of a warm bed and roof overhead.

Even with dry weather and the safety of a school setting, the experience was challenging. This was just one night - for many, it's every night. With over £10,000 raised, the event was a great success.

BAKE-OFF

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RGS students and staff continued to make an impact upon the world outside the RGS as they seized the initiative to involve themselves with humour, energy and enthusiasm in community and charitable events as well as volunteering and conservation projects. Collaboration, altruism, perspective, and generosity of time and spirit remained the hallmarks of students determined to make a difference.

For the ultimate test of tenacity, creativity, precision, imitation, independence and reacting positively to failure, the twelfth annual Great RGS Bake-Off once again proved to be the ultimate test of all of these and more! This year's theme was Colour Explosion! which was interpreted broadly and imaginatively – from paints to colourful animals and more! There were some very impressive bakes and, once again, the standard across the board from staff and students was extraordinary as the panel of judges rated the cakes on taste, presentation, originality and wow factor.

Over £130,000

EVENTS

has been raised over the past five years: a phenomental achievement.

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RGS students enjoyed getting involved in a variety of community projects as they gave generously of their time for the benefit of local residents. Initiatives included visits to Abbot’s Hospital and Pilgrim Wood, where students of all ages entertained residents through poetry, music, quizzes and conversation, helping to strengthen links across generations. Students also took part in conservation projects to support the local environment and wildlife. In addition, there were a number of charitable events including the House pancake races, non-uniform days, the Pilgrims' Challenge to raise money for Great Ormond Street and the Max Windle Memorial Trust, the Christmas Fair, the Stand-Up Comedy Night, the Family Charity Quiz, a plant sale, food bank collections, a book drive for local schools, and more!

ND

A

TS

TA

IS

IN

OU

We were delighted to win The Development Award for Outstanding Fundraising Achievement at the Independent Schools of the Year Awards 2025, recognising RGS Guildford’s commitment to philanthropy, outreach and community engagement. Among our many fundraising and outreach initiatives are the Road to 2035 Bursary Campaign, Giving Days, the Pilgrims’ Challenge, Sleep Out, support for local, national and international charities, and the RGS String Scheme, which provides free music tuition and instruments for local primary school pupils.

Together, these programmes create opportunities, strengthen communities and inspire a culture of service and giving.

G

OUTSTANDING FUNDRAISING ACHIEVEMENT

IN G FUND

R

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HOUSE The House system is a vibrant and central part of life at the RGS; students take immense pride in representing their House and sporting a House tie or colours.

Each of the six Houses, named after benefactors of the School, compete for the eagerly-contested, annual Hardy Cup. The focus is on

HARDY CUP 2025-26

The battle of the Houses saw representatives from each house participate in 26 events over the course of the year. Congratulations to Valpy House for securing this year's Hardy Cup.

participation and teamwork, respect and fun. This year’s competition was no different with students having the opportunity to compete in a range of events, designed to cater to all ages, interests and skill levels!

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International We are delighted that our international schools continue to grow in both size and in reputation as they firmly establish themselves in their regions.

Our students now number over 3,500 across our four international campuses and our Guildford school bringing the total number of RGS students to over 4,800.

The goals for our international schools remain to foster global cultural engagement, encourage partnerships, to enhance the School’s reputation and to generate income to support the Guildford school and its students.

An RGS Education in India In September, RGS Guildford announced a landmark partnership with the Ryan International Group to open four new schools in India, starting with RGSG Bengaluru in 2028. Combining RGS Guildford’s academic excellence with Ryan Group’s extensive educational expertise, the collaboration will deliver a values-led education that develops character, leadership and global outlook.

Student Ambassador Trip to Nanjing The inaugural Student Ambassador trip to RGSG Nanjing gave RGS Guildford students the opportunity to build global skills, develop leadership and form lasting friendships. Through joint study sessions, student council discussions, cultural activities and time exploring Nanjing and Shanghai, students showed resilience, empathy and collaboration. The experience strengthened links between the two schools and provided valuable opportunities for cultural exchange, learning and personal growth.

Commitment to excellence RGS Guildford International continues to strengthen collaboration across its global family of schools through the sharing of best practice, quality assurance and professional partnerships. Recent visits to Dubai, Qatar and Muscat provided valuable opportunities to engage with colleagues, students and parents, celebrate RGS Guildford Qatar’s QNSA Effective rating, and support ongoing school development. Across every campus, a shared commitment to excellence, student wellbeing and the RGS Guildford values remains at the heart of everything we do.

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Community 36

Our Bursary Programme is designed to support the brightest minds through either Entrance or Hardship Bursaries, ensuring that talent and potential are the only criteria for admission.

A community that reflects the broadest range of backgrounds enriches everyone. It brings different perspectives into the classroom and helps shape a better future for all. Many of our bursary recipients go on to make a lasting, positive impact on the world around them. We are proud of how the Bursary Programme contributes significantly to the School’s character as a place of scholarship and inclusion.

For more information and to support this cause, please visit rgsroadto2035.co.uk

Giving Days In October, our community came together for a two-day fundraising event to support life-changing bursaries, helping talented young people fulfil their potential through an RGS education. Thanks to the generosity of 319 families, we raised more than £72,000. Highlights included the cycling challenge, a special performance of the School hymn and the ever-popular House Captains’ egg-and-spoon race.

Our life-changing bursaries offer

80% or more fee remission, with 40 students currently receiving one - the highest number in our history

JOIN THE JOURNEY

ROAD TO 2035

Over £72,000 raised across two days to fund school places

68

students received financial assistance

Graduating from the RGS is the start of a lifelong connection. OGs, their families and staff generously give their time and experience to inspire and support future generations, while our reunions celebrate the friendships and community that begin at school.

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Class Reunions 'Class of' reunions saw friends return for a tour and dinner at the School. This is one of many events throughout the year, both in the UK and overseas, where we welcome back our former students as friends and learn about their life events and career successes.

Supporters' Reception An opportunity to thank our community for their commitment and generosity, and celebrate their collective efforts to provide an equal education to all our students through the Bursary Programme.

Headmaster’s XI vs. OG XI Cricket Match The annual Headmaster’s cricket match is a much-loved event that brings together students, alumni and staff for a day of friendly competition and camaraderie.

Undergraduate Drinks

Inspiring Alumni

Each year, Old Guildfordians and staff gather for a relaxed evening of conversation, reconnecting and sharing stories from university life.

It’s a great chance to catch up and hear how everyone is getting on.

Many of our successful alumni enjoy returning to share career insights with current students at our annual Careers Convention,

REVIEWS 38

In January 2025, we were inspected by ISI in which the School was recognised for having not one but two significant strengths in the educational experience.

We are one of just a small handful of schools in the whole country to receive two Significant Strengths, a rare distinction that is awarded if a school demonstrates a clear, measurable, and profoundly positive impact on its students.

1

2

"A school culture that actively promotes inclusion and mutual respect highly successfully. This is a significant strength of the school."

"Pupils develop a breadth of knowledge and enthusiasm for scholarship. This is a significant strength of the school."

What "Pupils develop social skills, confidence and self-esteem... they are well prepared for life."

says about us:

"Exciting lessons which challenge pupils."

"Tolerance, kindness and mutual respect pervade every aspect of school life."

"Pupils feel well-supported in school."

What RGS parents say about us: "Creates a strong culture of kindness between students."

"Quality of teaching, of extra curricular opportunities, of pastoral care have all impressed us deeply."

"Support for further education decisions has been exceptional."

"Fosters academic & personal development through its curriculum and co-curriculum."

FINAL WORD Previous school: Esher Church School Couldn’t survive without: Sport and good music.

Sporting highlight: Beating Cranleigh 26 - 24 away in the Under 16As in the final game of the season.

Proudest moment: The 1st XV rugby cup run in the national plate, reaching the semi-finals.

Most enjoyable aspect of being School Captain: Lunch queue chats/banter with students in the younger years.

Favourite meal at the RGS: Katsu curry.

Karaoke song of choice: Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey.

One thing that makes you proud of the RGS: The sense of community.

Favourite item from Sainsbury's: Chocolate Yazoo.

One thing people would be suprised to know about you: I’m highly competitive at board games.

Five people you'd invite to a dinner party: David Attenborough, Johnny Wilkinson, Louis Theroux, Brian Cox and Martin Degg.

Superhero power of choice: Teleportation — no traffic, no commuting and unlimited holidays.

Final nugget of wisdom: It costs nothing to be kind. Make the most of every opportunity while you're still at school – the years go by much quicker than you think.

Alex School Captain 2025-2026

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