School Life & Traditions

At the heart of every school are the traditions and daily practices that shape its identity, influencing the character of both students and staff. 

Though we have evolved significantly over our five centuries, many aspects of our school life have remained strikingly familiar to those who attended in, say, 1925. These traditions, deeply woven into the fabric of RGS, continue to connect us across generations.

For our Old Novocastrians, the memories of walking the iconic Main Hall corridors or proudly wearing the RGS uniform still evoke a profound sense of shared experience. 

Join us as we journey through the rich history of some of RGS’s most cherished traditions and the enduring elements of daily life that give our school its unique spirit and character. 

Explore RGS School Life

Read more about the every-day aspects of school life at RGS, from our coat of arms to our house system:

Uniform
Uniform

At RGS, wearing the school uniform is an integral part of daily life, a tradition that helps students feel a sense of belonging to our community. 

Read More about Uniform
Prefects
Prefects

RGS has had student prefects since the 16th century. They would have been called ‘præpositors’ originally and were a common role in English grammar schools.

Read More about Prefects
Houses
Houses

The house system is a cornerstone of life at RGS, deeply rooted in tradition. It provides both a support network and an outlet for friendly competition.

Read More about Houses
The Coat of Arms
The Coat of Arms

The RGS Coat of Arms is one of our most iconic and instantly recognizable symbols, proudly displayed across our school buildings, uniforms, and website.

Read More about The Coat of Arms
RGS & Co-Education
RGS & Co-Education

One of the most transformative moments in the history of RGS Newcastle was the decision to become a co-educational school in 2001.

Read More about RGS & Co-Education
Watermark

RGS500 Gives

As part of the RGS Family, there are lots of ways you can give back during our 500th year. Explore our exclusive giving clubs below, as well as our sponsorship and advertising packages.