Royal Grammar School Newcastle: A Parent's Guide
Founded in 1525 and celebrating 500 years in 2025 — everything you need to know about Newcastle's oldest school, now fully co-ed and based in Jesmond.
The Royal Grammar School is one of Newcastle's most prominent institutions — and one of England's oldest. Founded in 1525 by Thomas Horsley, then Mayor of Newcastle, it has occupied its Jesmond campus on Eskdale Terrace since 1906. The 2025 academic year marked the school's 500th anniversary.
Here's what parents considering RGS need to know.
History
Thomas Horsley established the school in 1525, and it later received its royal charter from Queen Elizabeth I. Over its five centuries, the school moved several times around Newcastle before settling on its current Eskdale Terrace site, formally opened in January 1907 by the 7th Duke of Northumberland.
For nearly 500 years, RGS was an all-boys school. That changed in 2008, when it became fully co-educational — a significant shift that broadened its intake and changed the character of the school. Today it educates boys and girls on equal terms across all year groups.
Who It's For
RGS takes pupils from age 7 to 18, across a Junior School (Years 3–6) and Senior School (Years 7–13). The Junior School has over 250 pupils and shares the main Jesmond campus. The Sixth Form is one of the largest in the independent sector, with more than 330 students.
Total enrolment is around 1,300 pupils. The school draws from across the region — not just Jesmond — with families travelling from Northumberland, County Durham, and North Tyneside.
Best for: Ages 7–18. Over 1,300 pupils including 250+ in the Junior School and 330+ in the Sixth Form.
Academic Reputation
RGS regularly leads all northern schools in national league tables. It was named the top-performing school in the North of England by the Sunday Times Schools Guide in both 2012 and 2015, based on A-level and GCSE results.
The school's most recent ISI (Independent Schools Inspectorate) rating is Excellent — the highest available grade. Academic expectations are high, and students progress to selective universities and competitive courses. The school's motto is Discendo Duces — "By Learning, You Will Lead."
Campus and Facilities
The Eskdale Terrace campus has been substantially developed over the years. Key facilities include:
- Science and Technology Centre (opened 1997)
- Sports Hall (1996)
- Performing Arts Centre (2006) including the Miller Theatre
- Modern learning spaces, art studios, and computing facilities
The campus has excellent transport links, with Jesmond Metro station a short walk away and bus routes along Osborne Road.
Beyond the Classroom
RGS has a strong co-curricular programme. Highlights include:
- Combined Cadet Force (Army, Navy, and RAF sections)
- Debating — the school regularly competes at national level
- Sport: rugby, hockey, cricket, athletics, and more
- VEX Robotics — the school qualified for the 2025 World Championships
- Music, drama, and a wide range of clubs and societies
Notable Alumni
RGS has produced a remarkable range of former pupils over its five centuries. Among the most notable:
- Admiral Lord Collingwood — Nelson's second-in-command at Trafalgar
- Lord Eldon — Lord Chancellor of Great Britain
- Sir Greg Winter — Nobel laureate in Chemistry (2018)
- Fraser Forster — professional footballer (Southampton, Newcastle United)
- Cardinal Basil Hume (attended the Junior School before moving to Ampleforth)
Admissions and Fees
RGS is a private day school — there are no boarding places. Entry points are at Year 3 (age 7) for the Junior School, Year 7 (age 11) for the Senior School, and Year 12 (age 16) for the Sixth Form, though places may be available in other year groups.
Admissions are managed through the school's own entrance assessments. The school offers bursaries for families who could not otherwise afford the fees — something it actively promotes as part of its commitment to widening access.
Prospective families can arrange private tours or access virtual campus tours through the RGS website.
Practical Information
- Address: Eskdale Terrace, Jesmond, NE2 4DX
- Ages: 7–18 (Years 3–13)
- Type: Independent co-educational day school
- ISI Rating: Excellent
- Approximate roll: 1,300 pupils
- Nearest Metro: Jesmond (5-minute walk)
- Founded: 1525
Considering RGS for your child? Get in touch — we're happy to help families exploring their options in Jesmond.