RGS Gives

YOUR SUPPORT MAKES A DIFFERENCE

SUPPORT A BRIGHTER FUTURE

While we are convinced of the infinite potential of young people from the North East, the social mobility statistics are some of the worst in the country, with these challenges compounded by the pandemic and cost of living crisis. Too many children are missing opportunities afforded to others born elsewhere.

The North East region is currently grappling with an educational crisis marked by shortages of teachers and disappointing academic outcomes, particularly evident in GCSE results. According to the Office for National Statistics, there exists a notable gap in the performance of state schools between the North and other regions. This divergence is most pronounced at the secondary level, where Ofsted’s evaluations reveal that 79% of schools in the South of England have received ratings of “good”or “outstanding,” in contrast to only 68% in the North and Midlands.

In all likelihood, the North East’s underwhelming academic performance contributes to its dauntingly high national unemployment rate of 4.7% (Office for National statistics 2023) and the highest child poverty rate, surpassing all other English regions. Specifically, 35% of children in the North East are living in relative poverty, compared to the national average of 30% (figures published from the coalition of poverty charities, End child poverty 2022).

This disparity has been compounded by lower household incomes and the inflated cost of living.

It is important to note that children from these families possess the academic potential, aspirations, and capabilities akin to their peers, they require the necessary support afforded to others born in other regions to fulfil their true potential. Similarly, hardworking teachers in state schools operating in challenging circumstances require proportionate support to improve student outcomes. Education is a powerful tool for upward social mobility.

An individual’s life chances are profoundly shaped by the ambition and the opportunities they are exposed to; their educational achievements and employment prospects are particularly impacted by the level of support and careers advice they garner at secondary school level. This is particularly true of children with a passion and aptitude for academia. By furnishing intellectually curious and capable young people with academic stretch and challenge, we can open opportunities to further education, enable them to fulfil their potential in professional careers and entrepreneurship. We need such young people from the North East to do well, to stay in our region and to create prosperity and further employment. Your support can benefit one or more young people, each becoming individual catalysts, each propelling generational and community-wide social mobility.

WHAT CAN RGS DO?

The Royal Grammar School has stood as a beacon of educational excellence for nearly half a millennium, with its rich history and unwavering commitment to academic brilliance, RGS has not only shaped minds but also transformed lives. At the heart of this legacy lies a remarkable initiative – the Bursary Campaign. This campaign, established in response to changing governmental fee assistance in 1997, has been a lifeline for countless bright minds from challenging backgrounds, ensuring that financial constraints are not a barrier to pursuing an academic education and aspirations.

With a history spanning five centuries, RGS is the oldest learning institute in Newcastle. This legacy has been meticulously nurtured, resulting in RGS being consistently recognised as The Sunday Times North East Top Independent Secondary School for academic performance. Additionally, the school proudly holds the esteemed title of Sunday Times North East Independent School of the Decade. And most recently named as Independent School of the Year at the Independent School Parent awards, a testament to its unwavering commitment to fostering and sharing academic excellence.

“ We want to champion schools that are doing wonderful work. We want our children to be well-nurtured and well-taught.”

– Helen Davies, the editor of The Sunday Times Parent Power guide

The heart of RGS’s impact lies not only in its academic achievements but also in its dedication to inclusivity. In 2002, the Bursary Campaign was established as a response to evolving government policies. This campaign, fuelled by the generosity of bursary benefactors, aims to provide exceptional young individuals with means-tested bursaries. These bursaries, designed to support families facing financial challenges, enable deserving students to access the transformative education offered by RGS.

Over 20 years later the impact of RGS Bursaries are nothing short of remarkable. By targeting students with proven academic potential and financial constraints, RGS Bursaries are breaking down barriers to education. On average, bursary awards cover an astounding 95.8% of the annual fees, ensuring that these bright minds not only dream of attending RGS but can also turn these dreams into reality.

RGS Bursaries are not just about financial support; it’s about empowering young individuals to overcome challenges and seize opportunities. By providing bursaries to students from disadvantaged backgrounds, schools contribute to breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering individuals to improve their own lives and the lives of their families. Some of the brightest minds from the most challenging backgrounds are now able to step through the doors of RGS, thanks to our visionary approach.

This initiative doesn’t just provide an education; it offers a chance at a brighter future, enabling students to become the best versions of themselves.

While the impact of the RGS Bursaries is undeniable, the high demand for bursary places underscores the urgent need for continued support. Year after year, RGS receives applications from exceptional students, many of whom face financial hardships. However, due to limited funds, some deserving applicants are left disappointed. The collective support of the community is crucial to ensuring that these bright minds are not held back by financial constraints.

We aim to be a shining example of how education can break down barriers, ignite dreams, and transform lives. This initiative, built on a legacy of excellence, reflects RGS’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and promising future. By rallying behind the Bursary Campaign, we can ensure that the brightest minds, regardless of their financial circumstances, can embark on a journey of education, empowerment, and limitless possibilities. Together, we can make dreams come true and shape a better tomorrow for all.

“The more that you read, the more you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.”

– Dr Seuss

RGS is an independent, fee-paying school, yet we have a long history of providing a large number of fee-assisted places. RGS is passionately committed to ensuring access to its fast-paced, challenging academic curriculum for students from the widest possible range of backgrounds. We believe that the first-class education that our students receive can be transformational to their lives.

“From the Penrith generation of 1939–1944, to the current day, Old Novocastrians provide valuable support to RGS Bursaries, along with current and former parents and staff, local charitable trusts and North East businesses. We are grateful for every donation which we spend with great care. Please join us.”

– Nigel McMinn, Governor and Chair of RGS Bursary Campaign

By generously contributing to the RGS Bursary campaign, you hold the power to alter the trajectory of a young individual’s life. Your benevolence can grant them the invaluable opportunity to benefit from in the RGS experience and realise their fullest potential.

We extend our gratitude for any level of contribution, be it a portion or the entirety of the fees.

Your contributions can take various forms, including one-time donations, standing orders, grants from charitable trusts and foundations, corporate donations, and legacies. Your support truly makes a difference.

If you are inspired to support our mission, we’d love to hear from you.

Please contact:

development@rgs.newcastle.sch.uk

To give a one off donation now please scan this QR code

“Without the bursary campaign we could have never given our son the opportunity to enter the new world in which he’s found himself in. Receiving the letter to say he’d been selected felt like a lottery win to us and has continued to feel this way throughout his journey.”

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I am so humbled and indebted to those who have invested in my daughter’s future. If I can ever repay RGS then I will, and I know Ella will honour our family’s gratitude by making an indelible mark on the world.”

– Sarah Bannister, RGS parent (2019–2021)

The academic support I received both from the knowledgeable teachers and the resources available at RGS was absolutely critical, but it was the encouragement of teachers and staff who helped me apply to study Classics at Oxford. Being able to immerse myself in both the academic and extra-curricular activities not only developed my ability as a student, but it also gave me opportunities to connect with people who have varying interests and make truly wonderful friends. The kindness and immense generosity of the donors whom I have never met are particularly inspiring to me, and always endeavour to pass on this kindness to others and continue their generosity. I will be forever grateful to all those involved with the RGS Bursary Campaign and for the immeasurable help they have given me.”

– Christina Chui (2007–2018)

“I am extremely fortunate to have been accepted here, and appreciate not just the academic facilities provided to me, but the social and introspective skills that I have developed solely on account of this unique venture in my education. I am grateful to the bursary program, not for telling me that I was the same as everyone else, but for showing me why that

does not mean I can’t flourish just the same as anyone.”

“ I am so grateful to all of you who support the RGS Bursary Campaign, as I really believe that my time at RGS has changed my life and set me on the lifepath I am on.”

– Katy Silverman (2006–2008)

“We are 100% sure that without achieving the bursary, my daughters school life and her future would not be so promising and exciting. The RGS is a wonderful school and we are extremely proud and grateful for everything it has given, and continues to give.”

RGS remains committed to delivering inspirational partnership sessions to over 100 state primary and secondary schools in our region. Our primary goal is to cultivate curiosity and a love for learning, aiming to enhance academic achievement and elevate the aspirations of students throughout our region.

The utilisation of specialist teachers in areas like robotics, mathematics, physics, and computer science not only enables students to deepen their understanding of these subjects but also fosters collaboration among teachers in designing and implementing teaching and learning activities. Simultaneously, it supports the ongoing professional development of the educators involved. During the 2022-23 academic year over 750 teachers from our partnership schools benefited from teacher CPD.

Our partnership initiatives have four key areas of focus: enhancing primary literacy, elevating cultural capital, improving STEM outcomes, and fostering teacher development. In the academic year 2022-23, we successfully delivered more than 50 diverse partnership projects spanning STEM, computer science, robotics, sports, languages, classics, debating, UCAS mentoring, and more. Our reach extended to over 10,000 individual students and involved more than 750 teachers from 105 schools, covering the geographical expanse from Berwick to Middlesbrough.

We firmly believe that every child, regardless of their background, should celebrate intellectual achievement. Addressing existing barriers to this goal necessitates collaboration and partnership. Together, we can achieve more. With the capacity and influence of RGS, we are committed to making an impact beyond the school gates, viewing it as both our moral and civic duty.

We welcome discussions with individuals, corporate organisations, trusts and foundations interested in collaborating with us to further expand our partnerships and enhance our lasting impact on the region. If you are eager to learn more, please feel free to contact us at development@rgs.newcastle.sch.uk

To give a one off donation now please scan this QR code

“...the sessions have been going well and they have found them super helpful and have really enjoyed them, so thank you so much for all of your hard work it is much appreciated by both me and the students.”

– St. Mary’s Primary School

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“The children have gained invaluable experience throughout this project and it has had such a positive impact on the children’s education. The passion and enthusiasm for their work has been great and to see the children work as a team, communicate and support one another; this is such a rarity for these children due to the life they have outside of school so thank you!”

– Rainbird Excelsior

Just wanted to say a big thank you for your lesson today. A lot of positive work came from the session. The children were very motivated and enjoyed themselves enormously. Great to see that level of concentration over an extended period.”

– Newburn Primary

RGS’s co-educational school educates some 1,350 students, over 350 of whom are in the Sixth Form, one of the largest in the independent sector. The school has educated over 10,000 Old Novocastrians, who have gone out to make a positive impact on the world, many shaping the economic, cultural and societal landscape of the North East. Our work and credibility to continue RGS Bursaries and RGS Partnerships relies on us continuing to deliver an exemplar education in our school, and through RGS Gives, supports can make an indelible impact on current and future students, which in turns strengthen our platform from which we build impact beyond the gates of Eskdale Terrace.

Supporters have, can and do make a difference from funding small equipment to large scale capital projects, as well as additional opportunities and experiences for our students. Support can take many forms, from charitable gifts through to sponsorship arrangements with mutual benefit to the donor. Our ambition for projects in RGS School is limitless, so please do get in touch if you would like to direct your support to the School.

OUR IMPACT

RGS is well known for our highly academic education; our students are bright and go on to achieve some of the best exam results in the region, many go on to highly selective courses at top Universities. We are equally dedicated to the outstanding pastoral support of our young people, as well as incredible opportunities to access sport, performing arts and a wide breadth of co-curricular activities in our first-class facilities.

87 students at RGS during the 23/24 academic year will benefit from transformative means-tested RGS Bursaries.

95.8%

is the average bursary awarded, focussing our finite funds where we can make the most transformational difference.

426 bursary students have been proudly supported since RGS Bursaries were established in 2002.

When passionate colleagues from all kinds of schools and organisations work together towards the twin goals of raising attainment and aspirations of our young people, amazing things can happen.

105 different schools across the region were involved in Partnership activity in 2022/2023.

Over 750 teachers received CPD or collaborated on curriculum development.

10,000 individual students in local state schools benefited from RGS Partnership activities.

If