Reigate Grammar School Surrey Hills Overview
Reigate Grammar School Surrey Hills (RGS Surrey Hills), formerly known as Box Hill School, is now a proud member of the renowned Reigate Grammar School family—one of the UK’s top-performing independent school groups. Catering to students aged 11-18, the school offers a complete educational journey from Year 7 through Year 13, in both day and boarding environments.
The curriculum encompasses GCSE, A-Level, and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, supplemented by tailored programmes such as the One-Year GCSE, Pathway Preparation Programme, and English Preparation Programme to meet diverse student needs.
Nestled in the beautiful Surrey countryside, the school boasts an exceptional location. It is conveniently situated just 40 minutes from Heathrow Airport and a mere 50-minute journey from central London.
RGS Surrey Hills maintains an intimate learning community with a maximum capacity of 450 students. The student body comprises 70-80% local British students and 20-30% international pupils, creating a truly immersive English language environment. With approximately 20 Chinese students, it offers an ideal setting for deep cultural immersion and authentic English language acquisition.
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RGS Surrey Hills Academic Programmes
The carefully structured curriculum in Years 7 and 8 ensures breadth and balance, covering a wide range of subjects, including English, Mathematics, Sciences, History, Geography, French, Spanish, Art, Drama, Music, Design Technology, Physical Education, and PSHE.
The GCSE programme commences each September. Students follow a balanced curriculum, selecting between 6 and 10 subjects from core disciplines (English, Mathematics, Natural Sciences) alongside options from Humanities, Languages, and the Arts.
Available subjects include English Language, English Literature, ESL/EAL, Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Combined Science, and optional choices such as Business Studies, Computer Science, Creative Arts (Art, Craft and Design), Creative Arts (3D Design), Dance, Drama, French, Geography, History, Music, Religious Studies, Spanish, and Sports Science.
This intensive one-year programme provides excellent preparation for international students before progressing to A-Levels or the IB Diploma. Students typically study 6 core subjects.
The curriculum includes English (First Language or ESL), Mathematics, and four optional subjects from Biology, Chemistry, Physics, History, Geography, French, Spanish, and Art. Additional tutoring is available for First Language German and Latin.
This rigorous two-year pre-university course involves the study of three or four subjects. A-Level students benefit from a dedicated Sixth Form Centre with modern study facilities, shared with IB Diploma students.
Subjects offered include Art, Craft and Design, Biology, Business Studies, Chemistry, Computer Science, 3D Design, Economics, English Literature, English IELTS, French, Further Mathematics, Geography, History, Mathematics, Media Studies, Music, Photography, Physical Education, Physics, Politics, Psychology, Spanish, and Theatre Studies.
The IB Diploma encourages global awareness and academic breadth through the study of six subjects plus core elements. IB students enjoy a dedicated Sixth Form Centre with modern facilities, shared with A-Level students.
This intensive programme, lasting one to three terms, focuses on rapid language improvement to prepare students for entry into mainstream education.
Through EAL and comprehensive learning support, every child develops the tools for success.
Subjects include English as an Additional Language, Mathematics, Sciences, Geography, History, and Art.
This foundational programme, spanning one to three terms, prepares students for entry into RGS Surrey Hills’ GCSE, IB, and A-Level programmes.
Whatever pathway they choose, students benefit from expert teaching, personal guidance, and strong support.
The curriculum covers English as an Additional Language, Mathematics, Sciences, plus taster courses in Business Studies, Economics, Geography, History, and Art.
RGS Surrey Hills Co-curricular Activities
At RGS Surrey Hills, the belief is firmly held that education extends far beyond academic achievement in the classroom. The school’s commitment to holistic development ensures students gain lifelong benefits. Dedicated time for activities is embedded within the regular weekly timetable, with students signing up for new choices each term.
This approach not only helps students discover their passions but also builds a strong sense of community and belonging while fostering essential skills, enthusiasm, and lasting friendships.
Sports: Football, Rugby, Netball, Basketball, Cricket, Tennis, Athletics, and more.
Arts: Drama, Dance, LAMDA, Music Ensembles, Art, and Design.
Adventure: Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Mountain Biking, Climbing, Expeditions, and International Trips.
Leadership & Service: Model United Nations, Student Committees, Charity Projects, and Round Square Initiatives.
🌟High Performance Football Programme: A focus sport with links to local clubs and national coaches, offering professional training, match guidance, and dedicated development for girls’ football.
RGS Surrey Hills Boarding Life
Boarding is central to the identity of RGS Surrey Hills. Its six boarding houses are dedicated to creating a warm, home-like atmosphere where boarders can thrive, successfully balancing academic commitments with engaging activities.
The school provides a vibrant and active boarding programme seven days a week, with extensive evening and weekend offerings, including sports, cultural activities, and external trips.
Student health and wellbeing are paramount. The onsite Medical Centre, staffed with qualified nurses, nutritious meals, and clear routines ensure physical wellbeing. Additionally, the Wellbeing Hub offers a calm, welcoming space for guidance and reflection, supporting mental health throughout a student’s boarding experience.
RGS Surrey Hills Pastoral Care & Wellbeing
At RGS Surrey Hills, pride is taken in the quality of pastoral care and unwavering attention to the wellbeing of every student. This commitment is at the heart of everything they do.
Upon joining the school, each student is assigned a personal tutor, while boarders receive additional support from both a Housemaster/Housemistress and a tutor. Personal tutors are teaching staff who support both academic and personal development. The tutor groups include students of mixed ages, fostering friendship, mutual support, and responsibility. All residential Housemasters/Housemistresses are supported by assistants, providing continuous guidance and a listening ear throughout a student’s time at the school.
Recognising that changing schools can be both exciting and daunting, the experienced pastoral team is always on hand to ensure transitions are as smooth as possible. They understand the importance of supporting mental health, actively providing students with the knowledge and skills to maintain a positive mindset. Furthermore, a series of wellbeing talks for all parents has been developed, creating a collaborative support network dedicated to student growth and wellbeing.
RGS Surrey Hills Contact Information
- Official website: https://rgs-surreyhills.org/
- Location: London Rd, Mickleham, Dorking RH5 6EA, United Kingdom
- Email: reception@rgs-surreyhills.org
- Phone: +44 (0)1372 373382
