Exceptional facilities, resources & extra curricular activities

Ripon Grammar School boasts exceptional sixth form facilities, including a purpose built Sixth Form Centre, enabling students to get the best out of their studies and the most enjoyment from school.

Academic

Facilities include a dedicated and purpose-built Sixth Form Centre along with school subject-specific facilities, state-of-the-art science laboratories, engineering suites and an art studio. 

Study Areas

A variety of specific sixth form study areas support students’ academic excellence during the day. The dedicated learning centre within the Sixth Form Centre is where students can work in a silent environment and access A-level resources, and is open from 8.00am-5.00pm. Alternatively, the two downstairs study rooms offer a more sociable working environment.

The sixth form use the school library facilities independently throughout the day for study and to obtain assistance with their academic work. The librarians work with students in class groups, and on an individual basis, to direct them towards the most appropriate resources for their individual academic and personal needs.

The librarians work with students in class groups, and on an individual basis, to direct them towards the most appropriate resources for their individual academic and personal needs.

Higher education and career guidance

At Ripon Grammar School we aim not only to provide an outstanding teaching and learning environment, but also to guide students as they plan for the next stage in their lives. This has been recognised by Ofsted, who, in a letter to students, said: “The sixth form is excellent; you attain high grades at A-Level and leave school very well prepared for further study or training.”

Outstanding support, guidance and encouragement is provided throughout a student’s time in the sixth form, especially during the all-important period of university application. The sixth form team and careers staff are on-hand to offer individual guidance on personal statements and the application process.

The school careers department offers information and advice on every possible route after leaving the sixth form. Our well-resourced careers library is open daily for students from 8.30am to 4.30pm during term time. Sixth form students are welcome to use the resources and arrange individual guidance appointments during free periods.

For more information on the full range of post 18 routes  click here.

Sport

The school has very attractive and extensive playing fields, including a full size rugby pitch and cricket square. An Astroturf pitch, brand new 3G pitch and four tennis courts complete the outdoor facilities. The school also has its own newly refurbished heated indoor swimming pool.

The recently built sports centre boasts a six badminton court size sports hall, climbing wall and fitness suite providing opportunities for a wide range of clubs and team training.

Music

The music block provides specialised rehearsal spaces for a variety of musical ensembles and a fully equipped recording studio. Using the latest technology and software, students can learn recording, arranging and composing skills.

The music department runs regular practices and supports a wide range of music groups catering for many styles and abilities, including choirs, ensembles, big band, orchestra, brass band and jazz group.

The school regularly hosts and enters local and national music competitions and festivals such as Harrogate Festival, National Festival of Music for Youth and The Battle of the Bands. Along side this we have our Autumn and Summer Concerts and perform in the Christmas Carol Service in Ripon Cathedral