The Royal School

The Royal School is an independent, co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 11 to 18. While we embrace modern ideas, we also have a deep connection to tradition and history.

The original Royal Naval School was established in 1840 and has since proudly enjoyed the royal patronage of Queen Victoria, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and has had HRH The Princess Royal as President since 1975.

The school is located in the charming market town of Haslemere, Surrey, nestled between wooded hills on a picturesque 26-acre site. It is conveniently situated within a short distance of all major London airports and benefits from a direct train to Central London in just 50 minutes.

We believe in bringing out the best in everyone and developing the character of our young people. Our commitment is to foster the development of our pupils beyond academics, focusing on their relationships, identity, emotional skills, and overall well-being.

Our robust academic progress, value-added education, and high individual achievement ensure that most pupils secure places at leading universities. Pupils who wish to apply to Oxford and Cambridge are provided with specialist preparation and a personalized programme.

Our boarding environment provides a happy, home-from-home setting where each child is known and nurtured, fostering community and belonging. The rapport between staff and pupils is excellent, and many of our boarders establish lifelong friendships across the globe.

Key Facts:

• United: The Royal School is part of United Learning, the largest educational trust in the country, with over 100 schools in the independent and maintained sector and more than 70,000 pupils and 10,000 staff.
• No ‘compulsory’ exeat weekends : Our boarders can stay with us over the weekends (except holidays and half terms) to enjoy a range of weekend activities led by our experienced Head of Boarding.
• Recognition & Awards: Shortlisted for the Independent School of the Year for International Student Experience and the TES Boarding School of the Year.
• Diverse Community: The Royal is home to a community of 40+ boarders representing over ten nationalities’
• Inclusive Admissions Policy: Our admissions process considers not only a pupil’s academic ability but also their potential and whether they will be happy here. We believe the process is fair and sensitive to individual needs.
• Short Stay Programmes offered: Pupils can choose from different Short Stay Programmes ranging from short immersion, two weeks, to a whole academic year.
• One-Year GCSE course offered: The course is suitable for those international pupils who wish to study A levels and BTECs but first need an introduction to the British curriculum.
• First-Class EAL programme: Pupils with English as a second language are fully integrated into the school’s curriculum and life. They are encouraged to speak English with their peers in various situations to develop their language skills. Co-curricular activities like sports, music, and drama help pupils improve their communication skills. The EAL department works with subject staff to support pupil progress.