The Duke of York's Royal Military School

The Duke of York’s Royal Military School is a mixed, non-denominational, state secondary boarding school with sixth form situated in Dover, Kent. It is a sponsor-led academy supported by a single-academy trust. A smaller than average secondary school, it provides 500+ places for students between the ages of 11 and 18 when fully subscribed.

The Duke of York’s Royal Military School has roots going back to the early 19th century. It was first built in 1801 by the Duke of York in Chelsea, before relocating to its current Dover site in 1908. The school reopened as an academy in September 2010, becoming the first full state boarding academy. Both the current school and its predecessor have links with the military.

Principal

Alex Foreman

Values and vision

The Duke of York’s Royal Military School prides itself on being a unique establishment rooted in military traditions. The military ethos helps students to develop character and life skills, supporting them to become resilient, skilled, well-educated young people. 

The Duke of York’s Royal Military School was previously only open to children whose parents were members of the armed forces in the UK, but entry was extended to civilian families when the school converted to academy status.

Ofsted report

“Students grow up to be confident leaders. They are courteous and well behaved. They feel safe and work together very well, supporting and challenging each other appropriately. They are rightly proud of their school and their achievements, including those derived from their military activities. The school integrates academic and pastoral care well, ensuring students’ social and academic needs are supported well in both environments.”

View The Duke of York's Royal Military School’s latest Ofsted report