The Royal Grammar School Newcastle has been named Independent School of the Year 2023. The school were presented with the accolade at the annual awards ceremony in London on 10th October. 

The awards celebrate and recognise the achievements and academic performances of the more than 2,500 independent schools nationwide. 

Originally shortlisted alongside 600 other schools, RGS triumphed, rivalling some of the most prestigious private schools in the country.

Headmaster Geoffrey Stanford said: “We are thrilled that this award recognises RGS’s leadership in this space and the role that all independent schools can play in raising standards for all.” 

The headmaster added: “We are also proud that this award highlights the collaborative work of Northeast schools, together we really can achieve more.” 

David Moncrieff, chairperson of the editorial advisory board of the Independent School Awards, said: “We have long believed that independent schools should receive greater recognition for the enormous and often under-valued contribution.”

The awards were judged by a panel of judges which includes leading head teachers and representatives of professional teaching associations. The judges were chaired by six-time judging panel member, Dr Helen Wright – an international education advisor and past vice chair of the Independent Schools Council (ISC).

She said: “It has been truly wonderful to receive so many nominations, which demonstrate the impact that independent schools are having in so many parts of the UK – and indeed the world.” 

At the London awards ceremony, RGS were presented with custom rosettes, as well as awarded the highly desired ISOTY trophy. 

The victorious school said togetherness is at the forefront of what they do, giving back to the north east community to support ambitions. RGS also says it collaborates with “businesses wishing to invest in the education and training of young people in this region.”

The ISOTY awards highlight the excellence of the student experience offered by the amazing independent schools in the UK. Alongside this, RGS has also been ranked first for academic results in the north east this year.