Ripon Grammar School

A Sense of Place 

Ripon Grammar School has been a place of learning since its re-foundation in 1555 but records suggest that the school can trace its origins back to at least the 14th Century.  While rooted in tradition, we are very much a forward looking school.  ‘Helping shape the future’ is our unofficial motto. Set in extensive and beautiful grounds in the heart of the historic city of Ripon, the school possesses a strong 'sense of place'. Boarding inevitably contributes to the vibrant nature and diversity of the School. It adds to the feeling of belonging that students so often display.  

A Place of Learning 

As a maintained, selective, co-educational boarding and day school, Ripon Grammar School holds membership of a small group of schools in the country. As a place of learning and as a community of individuals, it is unique. Academic results and 'value added' are exceptionally strong at both A Level and GCSE - a testimony to the hard work of students and the high calibre of teaching. There is an emphasis on inspiring and challenging students to think both independently and collaboratively. The strength of the student body in turn engenders a powerful work ethic. Recent Progress 8 measures put us in the top 100 schools nationally and we have topped The Sunday Times Parent Power Survey for the North for the last seven years. The large majority of our students leave school to pursue further study at university- many to the prestigious Russell Group of universities including Oxford and Cambridge.  In addition to the classroom, Ripon Grammar School is proud of its rich co-curricular life. Sport, music and drama are also exceptionally strong and the extensive activity and trips programme all contribute to producing well-rounded individuals ready for life beyond school.  

A community of Individuals 

At just over 900 students we are big enough to challenge, but small enough to know each student individually. The values of humanity, kindness and integrity are held as highly as personal responsibility, ambition and confidence. Above all else, we expect our students to be leaders in whatever capacity they find themselves – in essence to take the right decision at the appropriate point. In short we are a happy school where excellent staff and student relationships ensure outstanding outcomes.    

Jonathan M Webb 

Headmaster