Ripon Grammar School has been honoured with two major awards in the Sunday Times's 2026 Parent Power guide.
The school has been named the North’s Best State Secondary School, as well as coming top in the State Secondary School of the Year for Academic Excellence in the North category.
Headmaster Jonathan Webb said the news was a ‘wonderful early Christmas present’ for staff, students and the whole RGS community at the end of a busy term.
It is the twelfth year the school has claimed the top-performing state school in the North accolade after students achieved 81.7 per cent A*-B and 53.3% A*-A at A-level.
Mr Webb said:
“These awards reflect the commitment and hard work of our students, the expertise and passion of our dedicated staff, and the valuable support we receive from parents and carers.
“In addition to RGS’s academic success, we are particularly proud that The Sunday Times has recognised all the exceptional work that goes on beyond the classroom.
“As well as remarkable music, drama and sporting opportunities, students enjoy a wide range of clubs and societies, school trips, expeditions and enrichment activities which expand their horizons and encourage them to embrace challenges.
“Underlying all of this, we pride ourselves the strength of our community and on nurturing a supportive culture of caring and kindness, with initiatives such as charity fundraising and local volunteering encouraging our students to go out into the world as good citizens and active members of society.”
Ripon Grammar School has day and boarding places available for Year 9 and Sixth Form 2026 entry (apply by January 16 and February 6). Sixth Form Open Afternoon, Wednesday, January 28, 2pm-3.30pm. Visit www.ripongrammar.co.uk for more information

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