Royal High School Bath Review, Rankings, And More
Nestled within the historic city of Bath, the Royal High School stands as a beacon of academic excellence and tradition. In this detailed review, we delve into the heart of this esteemed institution, offering an in-depth analysis of its educational prowess, rankings, and distinctive attributes. With a legacy that spans generations, the Royal High School combines its rich history with a commitment to nurturing young minds. Join us as we embark on a journey to uncover the unique facets that make the Royal High School a distinguished seat of learning and personal growth.
Table of Contents
Key Features of Royal High School Bath
- Boarding: Yes
- Local authority: Bath and North East Somerset
- Pupils: 500; sixth formers: 140
- Religion: Non-denominational
- Fees: Day £15,882 – £16,578; Boarding £32,097 – £37,731 pa
- Ranking: 59
Royal High School Bath Results
2023: 65.4% 9-7 at GCSE; 42.2% A*/A at A level (65.2% A*-B). Average of 34.8 at IB.
2022: 77% 9-7 at GCSE; 66% A*/A at A level (84% A*-B). Average of 37 at IB.
2019: 67% 9-7 at GCSE; 46% A*/A at A level (75% A*-B). Average of 36 at IB.
Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects of the school’s teaching and learning approach:
1. Balanced Academic Approach: The school adopts an academic curriculum that strikes a balance between rigorous learning and an enjoyable educational experience. This ensures that students engage with their studies in a way that fosters both knowledge and a passion for learning.
2. Strength in Languages: The Royal High School places a strong emphasis on languages. In Year 7, students are exposed to three modern languages: French throughout the year, and half-year segments of German and Spanish. In Year 8, Mandarin is introduced as an enrichment option. This approach encourages linguistic diversity and cultural understanding.
3. Classics and Language Options: The school offers a comprehensive classics programme. Latin is taught until Year 9, after which students who are less inclined towards languages can transition to classical civilisation. Meanwhile, accomplished linguists engage in ‘Gratin,’ an advanced linguistic program combining Latin and ancient Greek.
4. Versatile Arts and Technology Options: The Royal High School provides students with a broad array of creative subjects. Until the end of Year 9, girls have the flexibility to explore art, design technology (DT), food technology, and textiles before making a focused choice. This approach encourages well-rounded development.
5. GCSE and Beyond: The GCSE choices are thoughtfully structured, with expectations that include double science and at least one modern language. Students usually study nine subjects. High-achieving students have the opportunity to undertake ‘extension’ GCSEs, such as Italian or creative i-media. The Aspire programme supports these students with additional opportunities for growth, including lectures and discussions.
6. Sixth Form Choices: In the sixth form, students can choose between A levels or the International Baccalaureate (IB), a unique offering among Bath schools. The IB program tends to attract academically inclined students due to its high academic standards and versatility. The range of subjects on offer is extensive, and the option for single-student classes showcases the school’s commitment to tailored education.
7. Digital Learning and Innovation: Recognising the importance of digital literacy, the school operates a ‘bring your own device’ policy. This approach encourages students to engage with digital learning tools and fosters an environment of innovation. The school’s recognition by Microsoft as a showcase school underscores its commitment to excellence in digital education.
Boarding Experience in Royal High School Bath
Here’s an overview of the boarding experience at the Royal High School:
Innovative Dormitory Design: The boarding experience at the Royal High is characterised by imaginative and innovative dormitory design. The upper floors of the main building have been transformed into split-level dorms, some featuring mezzanine-style beds. This creative approach not only optimises space but also offers students stunning views of Bath and its surroundings. The cosy and inviting ambience at the top of the house is enhanced by the use of vibrant colours in common rooms and kitchens.
Dining and Catering: Dining at the Royal High School is a communal experience that fosters a sense of togetherness. All students below sixth form eat in the dining hall, enjoying a variety of nutritious and appealing meals provided by catering firm Holroyd Howe. The smart card payment system not only simplifies transactions but also helps monitor students’ choices, contributing to a healthy dining environment. The range of menu options, including dishes like chicken and butternut squash curry and vegan moussaka, reflects the school’s commitment to balanced and diverse dietary offerings.
International Boarders and Community: The Royal High School embraces diversity, with around 20 percent of boarders hailing from overseas. Mrs Custodio, affectionately known as the overseer of the small number of younger boarders, ensures their well-being and integration into the school community. The mix of boarding and day students fosters a positive and inclusive environment, enriching students’ social interactions and cross-cultural understanding.
Extra Curricular Activities in Royal High School Bath
The Royal High School’s commitment to fostering artistic talent is evident through its vibrant extracurricular offerings. The music department flourishes with state-of-the-art facilities, including the impressive Steinway music school, recording studio, and recital space. The school has a strong musical legacy, with past students like Amy Lyddon making waves in the industry.
Drama enthusiasts find their creative haven in the converted chapel turned drama and dance studio, where a variety of productions take place. The light-filled art school boasts dedicated spaces for sculpture and textiles, showcasing the students’ artistic prowess. In design and technology (DT), students benefit from well-equipped spaces and engage with modern technologies like laser printers, contributing to their success in this field.
While the school’s campus may be compact, it maximises its facilities to offer a rich array of sports and fitness activities. Tennis and netball courts, an Astro for hockey, sports hall, and fitness suite provide opportunities for physical engagement. The Royal High School collaborates with excellent city facilities, including Lansdown Tennis Club and Bath University, for additional sporting resources.
The school’s approach to sports is inclusive and well-structured, with each year group, including sixth form, allocated dedicated time for sports activities. Fixtures with other schools and the GDST network provide opportunities for competitive play, particularly in hockey, netball, and cricket. Additionally, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) and Ten Tors team activities offer avenues for outdoor exploration and personal development.
Admissions Process: Entering Royal High School Bath
Overall, the admission process at the Royal High School in Bath encompasses a combination of assessments, interviews, and academic prerequisites depending on the entry level. It’s important for prospective students and their families to carefully follow the guidelines outlined by the school for the specific year of entry they are considering.
Year 7 Entry: For students seeking admission to Year 7, the primary entry point, the school conducts its own entrance assessment, which includes a creative writing component. This assessment is required for candidates coming from local primaries and other preparatory schools. Additionally, an interview is conducted where applicants are asked to bring along something they are proud of.
Year 7 Entry (Prep School Students): Girls transitioning from the prep school to Year 7 have assured entry. However, for the very few who might not thrive at the prep school level, discussions about alternative options may begin as early as Year 4.
Year 9 and 10 Entry: Some students may join the school in Year 9 or 10. These candidates are required to undergo assessments, including a science assessment, in addition to an interview.
Sixth Form Entry: For admission to the sixth form, candidates are expected to have achieved a minimum of six GCSEs at grade 6 or above. This should include at least grade 4s in English and Maths. Furthermore, subjects intended to be taken at A level or at a higher level for the International Baccalaureate (IB) should have achieved a minimum grade of 7 at GCSE. As part of the admission process, candidates are required to undergo assessments in key subjects and participate in an interview.
SEN Support
Here is a list of special educational needs that the school supports:
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders
- Dyslexia
- Specific Learning Difficulty
Royal High School Bath Testimonials and Reviews
An amazing and cheerful school which enjoys a good relationship with their followers and which takes great pride in everything they do, particularly in sports and music. I hope they reach their target for the music studio soon
Fabulous all girls school providing a rounded education that helps girls make their mark on society now and in the future.
Helping girls to achieve their potential
Artistic building for high school at Landsdown
Frequently Asked Questions about Royal High School Bath
The school is an independent day and boarding school for girls aged 3-18 years. It provides an outstanding, girl-centred, contemporary education as individual as the students in our school.
It is a leading independent boarding and day school for girls. Its an all-through, all-encompassing, all-girls education that delivers outstanding academic results and nurtures self assured, courteous and articulate young women who are aware of, and who can achieve, their full potential.
Royal High School Bath is an independent day and boarding school for girls and in the city of Bath, Somerset, England, catering for up to 650 pupils and part of the Girls’ Day School Trust.
On 24 August 1865, the doors opened to the first cohort of Royal School girls, who would live and receive their education.
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