Royal Russell School: Explore Reviews, Rankings, Fees, And More
Welcome to the gateway of Royal Russell School – a prestigious institution renowned for its academic excellence, vibrant community, and unwavering commitment to nurturing young minds. As you embark on this journey with us, prepare to uncover a wealth of insights into what sets this school apart. From shining reviews to notable rankings, we’ll navigate through the essence of Royal Russell, exploring its enriching environment, transparent fee structures, and so much more.
Table of Contents
Key Features of Royal Russell School
- Local authority: Croydon
- Pupils: 1,226; sixth formers: 265
- Religion: Christian
- Fees: Day £13,332 – £22,560 pa; Boarding £44,592 pa
Royal Russell School Results
Here are the latest GCSE and A Level results for Royal Russell School:
- GCSE Results (2023): 48% achieved grades 9-7.
- A Level Results (2023): 47% attained grades A*/A, with 70% achieving A*-B.
- GCSE Results (2019 – Pre-pandemic): 53% achieved grades 9-7.
- A Level and Pre-U Results (2019 – Pre-pandemic): 25% attained grades A*/A.
Boarding Experience in Royal Russell School
At Royal Russell School, boarding isn’t just about living away from home – it’s a vibrant adventure filled with friendships, fun activities, and personal growth. Picture this: weekends buzzing with go-karting thrills and mesmerising fireworks displays. And let’s not forget the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting from that swanky coffee machine in the dining hall – a cozy spot where stories are shared and bonds are formed.
Sure, homesickness may creep in now and then, but here, they’ve got each other’s backs. The friendly staff are on hand 24/7, ready to lend a listening ear or provide a comforting word. And when it’s time to unwind, the boarding houses offer a warm and welcoming retreat, where personal belongings are cherished, not hidden away.
Girls find a home-away-from-home in the modern house nestled next to the junior school, while boys thrive in our two vibrant houses – Oxford and Cambridge – where independence and camaraderie go hand in hand.
But what truly sets Royal Russell apart is the diverse community. From British locals to students hailing from China, Russia, and beyond, these halls echo with laughter and chatter in multiple languages. So, whether you’re Bogdan from Romania or Yizhou from China, you’ll find a warm welcome and a world of opportunities waiting for you at Royal Russell School.
Extracurricular Activities in Royal Russell
At Royal Russell School, students are encouraged to explore their passions and talents outside the classroom, creating a vibrant and enriching experience for all. From the youngest pupils in the junior school to the bustling corridors of the senior school, extracurricular activities play a vital role in shaping their school journey.
In the junior school, young musicians showcase their talents in informal concerts, while adventurous spirits embark on exciting residential trips starting from Year 3. With over 40 activities on offer, including coding club, swim squad, and media club for aspiring filmmakers, students are spoiled for choice and often pack their weeks with up to five activities.
While there may be the occasional critique of recent productions, the enthusiasm for the arts is palpable. From trips to London’s West End to the bustling streets of New York, students are exposed to a world of theatrical wonders. Lavish facilities, including a state-of-the-art auditorium in the performing arts centre, serve as the stage for regular productions such as “The Importance of Being Earnest” and “The Wind in the Willows“. And for the musically inclined, the school boasts a wealth of opportunities, with pianists among the 200 musicians enjoying practice sessions on new Bechstein pianos.
When it comes to sports, Royal Russell School leaves no stone unturned. With 110 acres of sprawling grounds, students have ample space to run, jump, and cartwheel to their heart’s content. From nursery pupils tackling the cross-country circuit to boarders enjoying a brisk pace for fun, the facilities cater to all levels of athleticism. While there may be the odd frustration with weather-dependent surfaces, such as the all-weather field, the recently constructed pavilion – complete with a gym and physio suite – provides a hub for sports enthusiasts.
Admissions Process: Entering Royal Russell School
For entry into the junior school, children typically join in September after their third birthday. The assessment process is gentle, focusing on observing children in small groups to gauge their development, communication skills, and ability to interact. There are no formal interviews or tests at this stage.
As students progress through the junior school, more formal assessments may be conducted, particularly for those joining in years 3 to 6, who are considered shoo-ins for the senior school. While around 90% of students transition to the senior school, places are offered to junior school pupils in year 6, with exams required only for those seeking consideration for awards, such as scholarships.
For entry into the senior school, the primary intake occurs in year 7, with 96 places available. Roughly half of these places are secured by junior school pupils, while external candidates undergo entrance exams in maths, English, and VR. Additionally, 24 places are available in year 9, with varying numbers in year 12. Entrance into year 12 is based on GCSE performance rather than an entrance exam.
While the school is selective due to its popularity, it strives to understand each child individually and assess their potential contributions to the school community. Assessments are important, but equally valued are traits that reflect the school’s values, such as openness, ambition, courage, and distinctiveness. This holistic approach ensures that every student admitted to Royal Russell School has the opportunity to thrive and make their mark.
SEN Support in Royal Russell School
While there are not many pupils in the school with special educational needs, the school does have experience with pupils with autism, ADHD, and other specific needs.
Royal Russell School Testimonials and Reviews
A fantastic medium sized multi cultural school . Selection process is broad and fair, giving less academic children a chance to shine in other areas. I have found no discrimination/bullying at this school whatsoever and the bursary/scholarship system makes it accessible to everyone. The teachers are dynamic and make lessons interesting, without sacrificing the pursuit of the best grades possible for your child. The headmaster knows each child by name and takes an active interest in every aspect of the school. The sport and co curricular activities are of a high level. My children all love this school and I would highly recommend it.
Excellent secondary school, with great opportunities. The staff make every effort to get to the bottom of pastoral issues and support students to mature and resolve their own issues. The school is not about league tables it is about training young people to take on their role as independent, well-informed citizens. The single-sex house system gives both the girls and the boys space to be themselves; and the mixed classes ensure that all pupils develop as rounded individuals at ease with each other. There is a strong ethical and moral ethos; there is a distinctive international spirit which at its best offers a long-term apprenticeship in international affairs, public speaking and debating through the MUN and other activities. Academically it offers huge stretch to those who are very able, and support to those who are not.
Amazing school and very good staff.
It is a lovely school!
Frequently Asked Questions about Royal Russell School
French is taught from Nursery to Year 6 by the school’s specialist teacher. In Years 4, 5 and 6 their pupils also receive specialist teaching in Spanish.
Registration is from 8:30am for all children with supervision in the playground from 8:15am. Lessons for Lower Juniors finish at 3:15pm and for Upper Juniors at 3:30pm.
All meals and snacks are included. They believe in the importance of a healthy diet. All their children eat lunch in the dining halls where they can choose from a full range of hot food with meat and vegetarian options, pasta, jacket potatoes with a choice of fillings, fresh vegetables, fruit, dessert and water or squash served every day. All food is prepared from fresh ingredients, every day by the team of 32 chefs and assistants. Their Catering Manager is always pleased to meet with parents to discuss individual dietary needs.
They are a relatively small school with approximately 340 children in Nursery through to Year 6. They are a family school with a caring and supportive community and their small size means that they are able to get to know all their children very well.
Apply To A UK Boarding School Today!
Speak to us today for free application assistance and education advice. Our expert consultants are more than happy to help!
Subscribe For Our FREE Insider UK Study Advice
Apply To Your Favourite Boarding School Today!
Speak to us today for free application assistance and education advice. Our expert consultants are more than happy to help!