RGS Dodderhill

The school’s educational philosophy blends traditional values with a modern, innovative approach, aiming to foster active, independent, and lifelong learners. It emphasizes the development of personal qualities such as confidence, resilience, curiosity, and kindness, alongside academic achievement. The school strives to ensure each pupil is cared for individually and is well-prepared for their future career pathways.

The school provides a wide and balanced curriculum, with a focus on core subjects including English, Mathematics, Sciences, and Modern Foreign Languages in the Lower School (Years 7–8). Year 9 allows for increased focus on core subjects while maintaining breadth through creative arts, Latin, Classics, or Computer Science. The GCSE years (10–11) offer a personalized curriculum, and the Sixth Form provides a transition to A Level study, supported by an Extended Project Qualification and an extensive careers programme. Digital learning is integrated throughout the academic programme.

RGS Worcester has a long tradition of academic excellence, with students consistently achieving high results at GCSE and A Level. The school reports that over 80% of students secure their first-choice university place each year. In 2026, the school was named the Independent Senior School of the Year at the Tes Awards, recognizing its combination of academic success, pastoral care, and innovation.

The school prioritizes individual care and development, with a focus on creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Pastoral care is structured through a House system, and the school employs dedicated staff to oversee learning development and additional care needs. The school’s approach to pastoral care and leadership was highlighted as a 'Significant Strength' in the January 2025 ISI inspection.

The admissions process for RGS Worcester involves six key stages: a personal visit or Open Event, registration, a Taster Day, receipt of school references, entrance examinations and scholarship assessments, and the final offer of a place. Registration is recommended in the September of the year prior to entry, though applications are accepted at any time. Entrance examinations and scholarship assessments for 11+ and 13+ entry typically occur in November and December. The school also offers a dedicated admissions process for Sixth Form entry.

The academic year is divided into three terms: Michaelmas, Lent, and Trinity. The Michaelmas term typically begins in early September, followed by a half-term break in October and concluding in mid-December. The Lent term runs from early January to late March, and the Trinity term spans from mid-April to early July. Staff INSET days are scheduled throughout the year, and specific dates for upcoming academic years are published on the school website.

RGS Worcester is located in the city centre and features historic buildings alongside modern, state-of-the-art facilities and spacious grounds. The campus includes dedicated spaces for academic departments, sports, and the arts. The RGS Family of Schools also includes RGS The Grange (prep school), RGS Dodderhill (all-girls school), and nurseries at RGS Springfield and RGS Dodderhill, which provide bright, secure play spaces, outdoor learning areas, and forest school facilities.

The school offers a wide range of co-curricular activities designed to develop teamwork, leadership, and resilience. These include the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), debating, various clubs and societies, and extensive trips and expeditions. The sports programme is comprehensive, featuring athletics, cricket, cross country, football, hockey, netball, rowing, rugby, and tennis, supported by an Athlete Development Programme (ADP). Arts provision includes music, art, drama, and textiles.