Colchester Royal Grammar School (CRGS) has been ranked 4th best state secondary school in England and 24th overall nationally, when State and Private schools combined in The Times and Sunday Times Parent Power Schools Guide 2026, published in partnership with Parent Power.
Adding to this success, the school has also been named State Secondary School of the Year for Academic Excellence in East Anglia, cementing its reputation as one of the country’s leading schools.
The Parent Power Schools Guide is widely recognised as the most authoritative ranking of UK schools. It draws on the latest examination results and performance data to identify the highest-achieving schools across the country.
This year’s rankings reflect resilience and ambition across education, making CRGS’s achievement even more significant.
Colchester Royal Grammar School, part of the Thinking Schools Academy Trust, is steeped in history, with origins dating back to before 1128.
While proud of its heritage, the school embraces a modern outlook on education, combining academic excellence with a strong commitment to personal development. As one of only 29 state boarding schools in England, CRGS offers a unique and diverse environment where students thrive both academically and personally.
Headmaster, John Russell shared: "We are delighted, indeed honoured, to receive this Sunday Times Parent Power award. “We have spent much time developing the students more widely and ensuring that they really enjoy their education; this is a testament not only to a wonderful and committed set of students, but to an excellent set of staff and a very supportive parental and alumni body. Importantly, this award is not only a celebration of the outstanding academic outcomes our students achieve but it also acknowledges our ongoing commitment to supporting each student's enrichment and personal development, preparing them for life beyond CRGS. John continued to praise the student’s ambition and the destinations of the school’s leavers, stating: “The students achieve much here and move on to the best institutions across the world.”
Headmaster, John Russell shared: "We are delighted, indeed honoured, to receive this Sunday Times Parent Power award.
“We have spent much time developing the students more widely and ensuring that they really enjoy their education; this is a testament not only to a wonderful and committed set of students, but to an excellent set of staff and a very supportive parental and alumni body. Importantly, this award is not only a celebration of the outstanding academic outcomes our students achieve but it also acknowledges our ongoing commitment to supporting each student's enrichment and personal development, preparing them for life beyond CRGS.
John continued to praise the student’s ambition and the destinations of the school’s leavers, stating: “The students achieve much here and move on to the best institutions across the world.”
Stuart Gardner, CEO of the Thinking Schools Academy Trust, added: "This is a phenomenal achievement and a proud moment for the entire Trust. Colchester Royal Grammar School exemplifies what it means to combine tradition with innovation, delivering world-class education while nurturing well-rounded individuals. “We are delighted to see their hard work and commitment recognised nationally and regionally."
Stuart Gardner, CEO of the Thinking Schools Academy Trust, added: "This is a phenomenal achievement and a proud moment for the entire Trust. Colchester Royal Grammar School exemplifies what it means to combine tradition with innovation, delivering world-class education while nurturing well-rounded individuals.
“We are delighted to see their hard work and commitment recognised nationally and regionally."
Being recognised for academic quality reflects the school’s commitment to excellence and its role as a cornerstone of education in East Anglia. By combining its historic legacy with a forward-thinking approach, Colchester Royal Grammar School aims to inspire future generations and strengthen its impact locally, nationally, and globally.