Matthew March

Royal Hospital School

Set in 200 acres of Suffolk countryside overlooking the River Stour, the Royal Hospital School is a thriving HMC boarding and day school for around 700 boys and girls aged 11 to 18 years. The School was founded in 1712 by Royal Charter to ‘improve navigation' through education, preparing boys for service in the Royal Navy. Today discovery, exploration and challenge remain at the heart of our educational values. We encourage our pupils to discover their passions and strengths. We also challenge them to be ambitious inside and beyond the classroom. Legacies of our seafaring heritage help make the School unique, including the exceptional provision for sailing, the spectacular whole-school ceremonial parades, the commemoration of key naval events and traditions, and our continued royal patronage. However, we are also recognised for the distinctive, modern education we provide. We empower young people to learn and develop in a changing world, giving them the knowledge, skills and personal qualities to navigate their way confidently through university and beyond. Our most recent ISI inspection report states: "The School has clear aspirations for its pupils. It seeks to promote the attributes of inspiration, challenge and leadership in its pupils. Pupils are encouraged to strive for academic excellence and to endorse the values of service, loyalty and commitments whilst upholding the School's unique and rich heritage. The School encourages leadership and a sense of adventure and self-discovery. A high priority is the promotion of service both within the School and to the wider community. The School aims to foster creativity and imagination within a civilised, caring, Christian community, based on high standards of behaviour, mutual respect, trust and courtesy between staff and pupils. The School cultivates a global outlook and sense of environmental responsibility. It aims to encourage pupils to develop fitness, wellbeing and enter into healthy competition."