Surrey Schools Shine Bright: Celebrating Excellence in Education
In a remarkable display of educational excellence, three schools from Surrey have been honored in the prestigious Independent Schools of the Year 2025 awards. Their recognition not only highlights their unique educational approaches but also showcases a commitment to fostering student growth in multifaceted ways.
St Christopher’s School & Nursery: A Magical Place for Young Learners
Walking away with the title of Independent Pre-Prep School of the Year is St Christopher’s School & Nursery located in Epsom. This institution, catering to children from the age of two-and-three-quarters, impressively integrates specialization in subjects such as PE, Music, French, Art, and Forest School into its curriculum. Judges praised its forward-thinking methodology, emphasizing that pupils of all ages acquire knowledge and skills at an excellent rate due to well-planned activities and the outstanding encouragement they receive from teachers. Headteacher Mrs. Bronia Grehan remarked that this recognition validates the exceptional environment that St Christopher’s nurtures, where joy, care, and ambition are paramount.
St James Senior Boys’ School: Where Education Meets Adventure
Another remarkable accolade was awarded to St James Senior Boys’ School in Stanwell, which received the School Trip of the Year award. Celebrating a unique educational style that combines traditional subjects with creative explorations, the school promotes a holistic learning experience. Rick Clarke, the head of St James, expressed pride in the school’s ability to provide transformative school trips, which have included expeditions to the Alps and cultural visits to Spain and Greece. This commitment to a well-rounded education stands as a testament to the school's values laid out by Aristotle—that educating the mind must be coupled with educating the heart.
The Royal Grammar School: A Legacy of Community Engagement
The Royal Grammar School (RGS) Guildford received the Development Award for Outstanding Fundraising Achievement, showcasing over 500 years of tradition in community collaboration. Underlining the importance of volunteer work, the school encourages its students to engage with local, national, and international charities, enhancing their educational experience through real-world contributions. Mrs. Rathmell, head of charity and volunteering at RGS, highlighted the school's collective effort in achieving this award, reflecting a deep-seated culture of community involvement.
The achievements of these Surrey schools illustrate the dynamic and supportive educational landscape in the region. Their unique characteristics not only exemplify excellence in teaching and learning but also create inspiring environments for the next generation of learners. As these institutions continue to foster growth, they set a benchmark for others to follow, proving that outstanding education goes far beyond the classroom.
