Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai has reached a new milestone. The school was rated Outstanding across all categories in its first British Schools Overseas (BSO) inspection. This follows last year’s ‘Very Good’ rating from KHDA and cements its position as one of the top British curriculum schools in the UAE.
Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai Sets the Benchmark for British Education
The BSO inspection—aligned with UK standards—evaluated the curriculum, teaching quality, student experience, and leadership. Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai earned top marks across all areas. Inspectors praised the school’s academic rigour, future-focused learning, and commitment to excellence. The curriculum integrates British educational traditions with modern, personalised learning models.
The BSO report commended RGSGD’s curriculum for its exceptional breadth and personalised approach, seamlessly integrating the best of British education with forward-thinking initiatives. Notable initiatives include the Russell Group, Oxbridge, Scholarship, and Employment (ROSE) project, which provides pupils with tailored guidance and support for future academic and career opportunities.
Personalised Learning and Pastoral Care
The quality of teaching and assessment at RGSGD was another standout feature of the report, with educators implementing highly effective strategies that personalise learning, engage pupils, and foster academic achievement. Innovative teaching methodologies ensure that pupils receive a dynamic and enriching educational experience, equipping them with the skills needed to excel both in school and beyond.
Beyond academics, the school places a strong emphasis on pupils’ personal development, encouraging leadership, resilience, and character-building. The expansion of the house system further enhances opportunities for personal growth, healthy competition, and continuity of pastoral care. Pupils take on leadership roles such as House Captains and Diversity Champions, reinforcing RGSGD’s ethos of inclusivity and empowerment.
Pupil welfare, health, and safety remain a top priority, with the school promoting a secure and nurturing environment where every child feels valued and supported. A strong pastoral framework, including a full-time counsellor, therapy dog, and peer-led support initiatives, has contributed to a positive school culture. The report also noted RGSGD’s strong home-school partnership, with high attendance rates (94%) surpassing the average in England.
Visionary Leadership Driving Excellence
The school’s leadership was recognised for its clear vision and dynamic approach. Staff retention is high, and teachers describe the school as inspirational and collaborative.
Matthew Pearce, Principal of RGSGD, expressed his pride in the achievement:
“Joining RGSGD as Principal this year has been an incredible privilege, and I am honoured to lead such a dynamic and ambitious school. Achieving an Outstanding rating in our first BSO inspection reflects the collective effort of our dedicated staff, ambitious pupils, and supportive parents. At RGSGD, we strive to create an environment where every pupil is encouraged to excel, explore their potential, and develop into well-rounded individuals. This milestone highlights our ongoing commitment to academic excellence and an enriching learning environment for every pupil.”
As part of the esteemed Royal Grammar School Guildford family, RGSGD remains dedicated to upholding the values of respect, scholarship, inclusivity, integrity, courage, and collaboration. The school continues to set the benchmark for outstanding British education in the region, ensuring that each pupil benefits from an enriching and future-focused learning experience.
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