Aims & Ethos

The Duke of York’s Royal Military School stands as a beacon of excellence in education, blending tradition with innovation to provide a unique and enriching experience for its students. Established in 1803 by His Royal Highness Frederick Duke of York, the school has a rich history rooted in serving the children of military personnel. In 1909, it relocated to its present site in Dover, Kent, where it continues to thrive as the country’s only state full boarding school.

We are committed to nurturing the potential of each student, fostering academic achievement alongside personal growth and character development. Our ethos is steeped in military tradition, instilling values such as discipline, integrity, and resilience, while also embracing a forward-thinking approach to education.

Academically, we maintain high standards, consistently surpassing national averages in GCSE results. Despite being a non-selective school, our students excel, benefiting from small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a dynamic learning environment. Beyond academics, we offer a rich array of co-curricular activities, providing students with opportunities to explore their interests and talents outside the classroom.

As the first full state boarding academy, we are proud to offer a comprehensive educational experience at an affordable cost, welcoming families from diverse backgrounds. Our commitment to excellence, coupled with our strong military heritage, sets us apart as a school of choice for those seeking a quality education in a supportive and inclusive environment.

The School remains deeply connected to its military roots, maintaining strong ties with the armed forces while also adapting to meet the needs of today’s students. As we look to the future, we are dedicated to building on our legacy of excellence, preparing students to succeed in an ever-changing world with confidence, resilience, and pride.

Our School Patron

The School consistently achieves outstanding academic results and prioritises exceptional pastoral care for all its students, a quality highly esteemed by the military families entrusting their children to its care. I am confident that this commitment to excellence will resonate equally with our new parents. I am pleased that the School will maintain its strong military connections and will continue to uphold the ethos cultivated over two centuries.

Having been associated with the School for 36 years, I have deeply valued our partnership and eagerly anticipate my continued role as its Patron. I am certain that the School will continue to thrive and evolve.

To the students, staff, and parents of the Academy, I extend my best wishes for the upcoming academic year and the exciting journey ahead.

HRH the Duke of Kent, KG