Royal Hospital School
Royal Hospital School
Holbrook, Ipswich, England
Shaped by a unique maritime heritage and well equipped for the modern world, this exceptional co-educational day and boarding school sits on a 200-hectare estate in the beautiful Suffolk countryside – overlooking the River Stour. The school proudly preserves its more than 400-year naval history, evident in traditional parades in naval uniforms (“Divisions”) and the active Combined Cadet Force. Its sailing academy is outstanding, reflecting the close ties to seafaring. Alongside impressive buildings and spacious grounds is a strong, supportive community. Anyone seeking a school with character, tradition and a strong identity will find the perfect fit here.
The Details
The Academics
At Royal Hospital School, pupils can take GCSEs and A Levels – supplemented by practical BTECs in areas such as entrepreneurship, media and sports science. The school is not highly selective academically but delivers solid results: in 2024, 39.7% of pupils achieved A grades at A Level, and 50.5% of GCSEs were in the 9–7 range – absolutely respectable.
A particular highlight is the modern approach to learning: all pupils use iPads in lessons, and Google Classroom is used effectively and consistently – a real plus for digital learning skills.
In addition to lessons, the school offers two exciting programmes: RHS+ teaches important life skills, career guidance and topics like mental health. RHS Xtra broadens pupils’ horizons with inspiring talks by external speakers – a highlight for many.
Languages Taught
English as a Foreign Language, French and Spanish.
The Boarding
About 60% of pupils board. The accommodation is functional, well maintained and community oriented – mostly in twin or triple rooms, with single rooms available in the final year.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
Royal Hospital School stands out especially for its modern, forward-thinking educational approach. This goes beyond the thoughtful integration of digital technologies like iPads and Google Classroom to include a consistent focus on real-world skills: teamwork, public speaking, interview training and wellbeing are integral parts of everyday school life – all skills that have impact far beyond the classroom.
The school also excels in sport: on its expansive 96-hectare campus, outstanding sports facilities include several fitness suites, a climbing wall, a golf course and equestrian facilities. Pupils have access to nearly 70 sports. The classic focuses are rugby (for boys), netball (for girls), as well as hockey, cricket and athletics for all.
The true sporting flagship, however, is the sailing academy. With around 70 school-owned sailboats and four motorboats used on a nearby reservoir, sailing is deeply embedded in the school’s identity. Pupils can earn sailing certificates, take part in regattas and even undertake international voyages – a genuine unique selling point.
Musically, the school scores top marks: over 50% of pupils play at least one instrument. The music department is excellently equipped – with a lovely concert hall, 25 practice rooms and a brand-new recording studio. The school choir enjoys an excellent reputation and regularly tours nationally and internationally.
Weaknesses
A bit off the beaten track! But it’s well worth it. This secluded location creates a calm, focused learning environment that gives pupils space for personal growth.
Location
Royal Hospital School is located near the charming town of Holbrook in Suffolk. The nearest international airport, London Stansted, is about 1 hour and 20 minutes away by car.
Royal Hospital School is refreshingly unpretentious – open, friendly and delightfully free of snobbery.
The Royal Hospital School offers fascinating behind-the-scenes insights in its podcast “Sit Down With RHS” – covering everything from success stories of former pupils to topics like global responsibility, sustainability, and the impressive co-curricular programme.
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