The Royal Grammar School, Newcastle (RGS) has been shortlisted in two categories at the 2025 Tes Schools Awards – often referred to as the ‘Oscars of Education’.
The Senior School is a finalist for Independent Senior School of the Year, in recognition of its ongoing commitment to educational standards, pupil wellbeing and its core values: Belief in Each Other, Love for Learning, Sense of Belonging and Ambition to Succeed.
Mr James Miller, head of RGS Junior School, has also been named a finalist for Headteacher of the Year (Independent). Known for his warm and thoughtful leadership, Mr Miller has overseen a culture where kindness, emotional literacy and curiosity are central to daily life. His approach includes introducing tools such as the Zones of Regulation, encouraging creativity, and promoting inclusive learning.
RGS headmaster Geoffrey Stanford said: “Our place on these shortlists, alongside the UK’s very best schools, reflects the passion, creativity and care that define the RGS Newcastle school community – from the Junior School through to Sixth Form. Mr Miller’s shortlisting is richly deserved. His leadership embodies everything we value at RGS: kindness, curiosity, ambition and a strong belief in young people.”
Mr Miller’s inclusion is also notable in a regional context, with half of the nominees for Headteacher of the Year coming from the North East – reflecting the area’s strong reputation for educational leadership.
The Tes Schools Awards celebrate excellence across UK state and independent schools, from early years through to secondary education. This year’s shortlist includes 22 categories, with North East schools nominated in six:
- James Miller, Royal Grammar School (RGS), Newcastle Junior School – Headteacher of the Year
- Royal Grammar School (RGS), Newcastle – Independent Senior School of the Year
- Cragside Primary School, Heaton – Excellence in Creative Arts
- Ashbrooke School, Sunderland – Specialist Provision School of the Year
- Rebecca Turner, Durham High School – Subject Lead of the Year (Secondary)
- North East Learning Trust, Northumberland and County Durham – Trust Team of the Year (10 or more schools)
The winners will be announced on June 20 at a ceremony at the Grosvenor Hotel, Park Lane, London.
