Reigate Grammar School Review 2026: Excellence and Belonging Since 1675

The bells in the chapel have been ringing for over three centuries. Founded in 1675 through the generosity of Henry Smith, an Alderman of London, Reigate Grammar School has occupied the same Surrey hillside ever since, educating roughly 1,100 students aged 11 to 18. Under Headmaster Shaun Fenton's leadership since 2012, the school has evolved into one of England's most recognised independent institutions, combining its grammar school heritage with a distinctly contemporary educational philosophy. The defining belief here is simple: happy students achieve exceptional results. Recent accolades include being named Independent School of the Year 2025 by The Sunday Times and recognised as the top co-educational day school in Surrey for nine consecutive years. Students consistently achieve elite results; in 2024, 90% of GCSE entries graded 7 or above, whilst A-level outcomes place the school 22nd and second in England for combined academic performance. The atmosphere balances academic rigour with genuine warmth. Students describe feeling known, supported and genuinely valued. This is a school where excellence is pursued, but not at the expense of wellbeing or joy.

Reigate Grammar School in Reigate, Reigate has a clear sense of identity shaped by its setting and community. Students move between lessons with focus, yet there's an ease to the environment that distinguishes it from more intensely competitive schools. The Victorian buildings frame grassed quads; the chapel dominates the skyline with unmistakable presence. The modern facilities sit alongside period architecture without dominating it, a physical expression of the school's philosophy: rooted in tradition but genuinely forward-looking.

Headmaster Shaun Fenton arrived in 2012 with a reputation for transforming schools. At RGS, he established a culture centred on what he terms "intellectual freedom" and "mutual respect." His letter to parents captures the tone: a commitment to knowing each child as an individual, believing in them, and helping them "reach their full potential." This is not mere marketing language; it appears consistently in how students and parents describe the school. The house system distributes students across four houses, each with distinct character but equal standing. Common rooms provide spaces for genuine community. Sixth formers mentor younger students through a formal programme.

The school proudly maintains its Christian heritage, with assemblies held in the historic chapel. Most students are Christian or from other faiths; the school describes itself as non-denominational but warmly Christian in character. This matters to some families; others appreciate a school that takes values seriously without enforcing theological conformity.

One notable distinction: girls were first admitted to the sixth form in 1976 and the whole school became coeducational in 1993. This history shapes the school's identity. It is neither aggressively feminist nor traditionally male-dominated; it feels genuinely balanced, with girls and boys represented equally in leadership and achievement.

GCSE Performance

In 2024, 90% of GCSE entries achieved grade 7 or above. Expressed differently: 74% of all grades were 9 or 8. This places the school in the elite tier of independent schools in England. The attainment is particularly striking when considered against the school's selective but not ultra-selective admissions process. Unlike some grammar schools, RGS does not aim to be an exam factory. The curriculum offers breadth alongside depth. Students here study classical languages alongside computing, history of art alongside engineering. Results suggest this balanced approach works powerfully.

The school ranks 42nd in England for GCSE performance (FindMySchool ranking), placing it in the elite tier. This represents the top 1% of schools in England.

A-Level Performance

The sixth form delivers results that rival the strongest traditional boarding schools. In 2024, 45% of all A-level grades were A*; a further 29% were A. Expressed as a single metric, 94% of entries achieved A*-B. This is genuinely outstanding and consistent year on year.

The school ranks 22nd in England for A-level performance (FindMySchool ranking), also placing it in the elite tier. Combined GCSE and A-level performance ranks the school 21st in England across both qualifications.

University Progression

The pathway to leading universities is well-established. In 2024, 11 students secured places at Oxford or Cambridge from 38 applications, representing a 29% offer rate and 100% acceptance rate once offered places. Beyond Oxbridge, leavers regularly progress to Russell Group institutions including Imperial College, UCL, Durham, Edinburgh and Bristol. Medicine remains a popular choice; 18 students secured medical school places in 2024. The school also publishes data on leavers' destinations: 75% progressed to university in 2024, with a further 14% entering employment.

Teaching at RGS follows traditional principles executed with contemporary energy. Class sizes average 18 students in lower forms, dropping to 8-10 for A-level specialist sets. Teachers are qualified specialists; many hold advanced degrees in their subjects. The school invests significantly in professional development, and staff turnover is notably low, suggesting genuine professional satisfaction.

The curriculum balances traditional academic disciplines with modern innovation. Pupils study Latin from Year 7 onwards; Greek is offered from Year 9. Simultaneously, the school prioritises computing, digital literacy and problem-solving. GCSE offers 40+ subjects; A-level includes 26 options ranging from Classics to Environmental Science. The three-year GCSE programme (Years 9-11) allows greater depth than the compressed two-year model at many schools.

What distinguishes teaching here is the emphasis on independent thinking. Teachers consistently highlight developing curiosity, critical analysis and intellectual confidence rather than mere exam technique. The school's own "learning and skills framework" emphasises resilience, independence and reflection alongside subject mastery. This philosophy translates into lessons observed as genuinely engaging rather than rote.

The sixth form entry pathway is selective but not restricted to internal progression. Many places go to external candidates. Entry typically requires Grade 7 minimum across key subjects, though this is not an absolute barrier. Approximately 25-30 places each year go to new students joining from other schools.

Upon leaving at 18, the progression to elite universities is well-established. The school has particularly strong outcomes in Oxbridge, Russell Group universities, and competitive degree programmes including medicine, engineering and law. The Careers department provides comprehensive support, including mock interviews, university visit programmes, and mentoring from alumni in various professions. Students also benefit from the school's extensive network; many parents and governors work in professional sectors that create internship and mentoring opportunities.

The co-curricular programme at Reigate Grammar represents a defining strength. With over 200 weekly clubs and activities, this is genuinely not the domain of a few enthusiasts but a central pillar of school life. The school describes its approach as "Sport for All" alongside "striving for excellence," and this duality is evident across every category of activity.

Sports: Championship Calibre and Inclusive

The school benefits from exceptional facilities, anchored by Hartstwood, a dedicated 32-acre sports campus. On the main campus, students access multiple sports halls, courts, a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, and cricket squares. The commitment to sports breadth is remarkable. Over 70 weekly sports clubs operate, spanning rugby, hockey, rowing, cricket, football, netball, basketball, tennis, badminton, swimming, athletics, golf, squash, climbing and yoga.

The flagship partnership with Chelsea FC has transformed football provision. Students access coaching from professional Chelsea development staff at school, plus opportunities to train at Cobham and visit Stamford Bridge. This is not limited to elite players; the partnership explicitly emphasises "Sport for All," with beginner and advanced groups for both boys and girls. House competitions in 10+ sports ensure that participation matters beyond inter-school fixtures.

Elite pathways exist for talented athletes. The High-Performance Hub provides strength and conditioning coaching, nutrition advice, mental skills training and personalised development plans. National representation comes regularly in hockey, rugby, cricket and swimming. Sports scholars receive mentorship, access to physiotherapy, and tailored coaching. Yet the culture explicitly values character development and participation equally with winning. Coaches emphasise resilience, leadership and teamwork.

Music: Excellence Embedded

Music at RGS occupies a central position in school life. The Chapel Choir is the school's most visible musical ensemble, performing at chapel services and external venues. Beyond choral music, the school supports a symphony orchestra, jazz band, wind band, smaller chamber ensembles and numerous informal groups. Over 50% of pupils learn at least one instrument, many through school music lessons included in the broad co-curricular offer. The school has a designated Music Scholar Programme awarding recognition and fee support to musicians of exceptional talent.

The Rosalind Franklin Music Wing provides dedicated rehearsal and teaching spaces. Practice rooms are well-maintained and accessible throughout the week. Concert performances happen regularly; the RGS Box Office manages a rich calendar of student and staff performances throughout the year. Music lessons are available across all instruments and voice through school staff or visiting specialists. The musical culture extends beyond traditional classical music; contemporary ensembles, folk groups and student-led bands flourish.

Drama: Creative Expression at Scale

Drama at RGS is not peripheral but celebrated. The school produces multiple theatrical productions annually: a major main school play in autumn, a second production in spring, and a sixth form production. Recent productions have included ambitious works spanning Shakespeare, contemporary pieces and musicals. Cast sizes range from 30+ student performers to technical crews managing lighting, sound and set construction. The productions happen on professional-standard stages equipped with appropriate technical capacity.

Drama students also participate in student-led performances, devised pieces and the annual Shakespeare festival. GCSE Drama focuses on both performance and design elements, giving students experience in multiple theatrical disciplines. The Drama Scholar Programme provides additional mentoring and performance opportunities for those with advanced creative ambitions.

STEM: Innovation and Hands-On Learning

STEM provision extends well beyond standard science teaching. Computer science programming clubs include robotics teams, coding clubs focused on Python and game design, and competitive programming societies. Engineering students access CAD software and practical making spaces. The school supports student-led STEM initiatives; recent examples include a model rocketry club, a debating team competing in national Model United Nations tournaments, and an emerging ethics philosophy group exploring technology's societal impact.

The junior school's recent merger with the main campus has introduced expanded STEM facilities and mentoring relationships. Upper school students lead after-school STEM clubs for younger pupils, building confidence and creating pipelines of interest.

Student-Led Initiatives and Character-Building

Many of the school's most active clubs were launched by students themselves. The school actively encourages young people to propose new clubs; this entrepreneurial approach means the menu constantly evolves. Model United Nations teams attend regional and national competitions. Duke of Edinburgh Awards schemes progress from Bronze through Gold, with expeditions including the Brecon Beacons. The Combined Cadet Force provides military education and leadership training. The school magazine, The Castle, continues as a student-run publication.

This breadth of opportunity serves a clear purpose: building confidence, resilience, friendships and life skills. The school's philosophy articulates this explicitly: exam results open doors, but the character, confidence and connections developed in co-curricular life equip students to enter those doors effectively.

Termly fees from September 2025 are £9,265 for Years 7-8 and £9,515 for Years 9-13. These fees include tuition, most co-curricular activities, and day trips. Additional costs include music lessons, residential trips, exam entry fees, coach transport and certain insurances, billed separately.

The school operates an enhanced Fee Assistance Programme offering means-tested bursaries and merit-based scholarships. Bursaries can cover up to 100% of fees, plus assistance with uniform, meals, IT equipment and travel. Approximately 15% of the student body receives some form of financial support. The 1675 Bursary Fund, named after the founding year, specifically supports families who would not otherwise access independent education. The Gershon Scholars programme offers sixth form bursaries for STEM-focused students with additional mentoring.

Families with multiple children at RGS or partner schools (Reigate St Mary's, Chinthurst or Micklefield) receive sibling discounts: 5% for the second child, 10% for subsequent children. A Fees in Advance scheme offers discounts for families paying a lump sum. Payment options include monthly instalments through an approved plan.

Headmaster Shaun Fenton holds an OBE for Services to Education, awarded in 2020. He has served as Chairman of the Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference and previously led both independent and state school sectors. His personal educational philosophy emphasises that every student merits individual recognition and belief in their potential. Under his leadership, the school has been recognised for exceptional pastoral care; multiple national awards reflect this.

The teaching staff includes specialists with advanced qualifications and, notably, professionals who have worked in their respective fields. Former engineers teach physics; former journalists advise the school magazine. Class sizes and staff ratios support individual attention. Many teachers have been at RGS for 10+ years, suggesting genuine professional satisfaction and stability.

Entry points are at 11+ (Year 7), 13+ (Year 9) and 16+ (Sixth Form). Approximately 50% of Year 7 intake comes from the school's junior prep schools; the other half from local state primaries and other independent schools. All applicants sit entrance assessments in English, mathematics and reasoning. No tutoring is officially recommended, though the selective nature of admissions means some families pursue preparation independently.

The school aims to identify academic potential and intellectual curiosity rather than coaching-dependent aptitude. Interview panels assess character, motivation and fit alongside assessment performance. Scholarship candidates complete additional subject-specific papers. For sixth form entry, internal students typically progress automatically if they achieve Grade 7 in subject areas. External applicants face similar standards.

The school is not ultra-selective; many capable students with strong primary or GCSE records gain entry. The emphasis is on identifying students who will thrive in the specific culture and demands of the school.

Pastoral care sits at the foundation of RGS's identity. Each student has a form tutor responsible for their pastoral welfare, plus a dedicated house system within which all major pastoral decisions are made. House staff include teachers and dedicated pastoral leaders. Lower school students are assigned sixth form mentors and second form buddies to ease transition.

The school recognised early the critical importance of mental health provision. It was one of the first UK schools to launch its own wellbeing festival. A dedicated wellbeing centre on campus provides a calming space where students can access support. Visiting counsellors are available; the school's learning support team includes specialists in autism, dyslexia, ADHD and other specific needs. Educational psychologists and occupational therapists work with the school on complex cases.

The broader wellbeing culture emphasises that academic achievement and mental health are intertwined. Teachers recognise stress; the school explicitly discusses the balance between ambition and burnout. The house system creates community; many students describe lifelong friendships formed here. Students consistently describe feeling known, valued and genuinely cared for.

The school is located on Reigate Road in Reigate, Surrey, approximately 15 miles south of central London. A coach service operates to multiple local destinations including London Bridge, Victoria and various suburban catchment areas, managed through a subscription service. The town is well-connected by rail; Reigate railway station provides direct services to London Victoria and south coast destinations.

School hours are 8:30am to 3:35pm for lower school, with sixth form finishing at 4:00pm. The school day includes two breaks and a lunch period. Most clubs operate after school until 4:45pm or 5:00pm, allowing students to participate and still access coach services home.

Highly selective admissions. While the school is not ultra-selective, entrance remains competitive. Approximately 8-10 applicants pursue each place at 11+ entry. This means gaining entry is not guaranteed, even with strong primary school records. Families should approach applications with realistic expectations and identify alternatives.

Independent school fees. At £9,265-£9,515 per term (£27,795-£28,545 per year), fees place this in the upper-middle tier of independent school pricing. Financial assistance exists, but only limited places carry substantial bursaries. Families should carefully consider affordability before committing to the admissions process.

Travel commitment for external families. Whilst coach services are available, families living far from Reigate or main coach routes may find daily travel logistically challenging. Some families, particularly those north of the Thames, require significant journey times.

Moderate competitive culture. The school balances excellence with wellbeing genuinely well. However, students here are capable and ambitious. The peer group is academically strong, which some thrive in and others find slightly pressuring. It is not an extreme hothouse, but neither is it a relaxed environment.

Reigate Grammar School represents one of England's finest independent day school experiences. The combination of elite academic results, exceptional co-curricular breadth, genuine pastoral care and an ethos centred on individual development creates a compelling educational environment. The 350-year continuity, the recent independent school of the year accolade, and the consistent recognition as top co-educational day school in Surrey reflect an institution operating at a genuinely high level across multiple dimensions.

The school is best suited to capable, intellectually curious students who thrive in a structured yet intellectually free environment. It suits families who value breadth of opportunity alongside academic excellence; students are expected to engage across sports, arts, academics and service. The pastoral care is genuinely excellent, particularly benefiting students who respond well to individual attention and house community. The school's Christian heritage appeals to some families; others are comfortable with its soft Anglican tone.

The main barrier is admission. With only approximately 150 places per year group and several thousand applications in England, many strong candidates do not gain entry. Financial cost is substantial, though meaningful bursary support exists for qualifying families.

For families who secure a place, the education provided represents exceptional value. The results are elite, the opportunities are extensive, and the culture balances achievement with joy in a way many schools struggle to achieve.