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The Duke of York's Royal Military School

A co-educational boarding school for students aged 11-18

Pastoral Support

Boarding lies at the heart of the School, and we are committed to creating a Dukie family; home away from home, a comfortable environment, and a friendly close-knit community.

Our Pastoral Team comprises the following:

  • Vice Principal (Pastoral) & DSL - Mr Edward Pallant
  • DSLs - Miss Sarah Fox and Mr Stu Hall
  • Housemasters and Housemistresses
  • Deputy Housemasters and Housemistresses
  • Pastoral Leaders (Matrons)
  • Tutors
  • Administrative support provided by Mrs Maria Major

Parents can have peace of mind knowing that house staff, know and understand their students well. Students quickly feel a sense of belonging, they mature and develop in a nurturing environment, rise to new challenges and are able to confidently embrace every opportunity in a safe and secure environment.

Housemasters, Pastoral Leaders and Tutors are caring, well-trained and build positive relationships with students.  They are approachable and are always able to help with issues, both pastoral and academic.  There is always someone to go to at the Duke of York’s, whether it be the house staff, other teachers, peer listeners, our independent listener or counsellors.


Assistant Principal – Mr Jolyon Marsh

House life is caring, encouraging and safe, but it is also fun and exciting. Houses compete in music, sports, assemblies and charity events. All Houses have day rooms, kitchen areas, and leisure facilities. Students are encouraged to make these areas their own, with personal touches such as family photos and posters. Communal areas are bright and cheerful, with comfy sofas, large televisions and a range of other recreational facilities. There are cosy quiet corners for a peaceful read, and larger spaces for shared activities and fun with friends. DOYRMS has 12 boarding houses that have been named after famous military figures from the Army, Navy, and RAF.

Every child is encouraged to find and develop their strengths, be it in the classroom, on the sports field, in the music room or in the Boarding House. They learn about leadership and loyalty, tolerance and healthy competition, and they understand that they have to work hard and be fully committed to achieving their personal goals. Our pupils leave here as well-rounded individuals, ready to tackle life head-on.

Students enjoy constructive and positive relationships with the staff around them. They reported how they had developed trust with house parents and felt that they could talk to them about anything.

One student said, “The new housemaster is so awesome. He really listens to us.” Other students said, “Being “Dukies” is like being in a big family that always looks after you.‟

Ofsted (April 2018)