By Geoffrey Stanford, Headmaster, RGS Newcastle
The Royal Grammar School (RGS) Newcastle Quincentenary takes Centre Stage.
There are moments in the life of a school that feel timeless. The RGS 500 Choir and Orchestra Concert, which was held at the North East’s iconic Glasshouse International Centre for Music, was one of those rare, unforgettable moments. It was not just a performance – it was a celebration five centuries in the making; a spectacular showcase of musical talent, unity and pride that brought together generations of the RGS Newcastle community.
To stand on the cusp of half a millennium is no small thing. It is hard to overstate the significance. Ours is a school that predates Shakespeare’s writings, the formation of the United Kingdom, and even the invention of the steam engine. Yet, here we are – still learning, still leading, still celebrating, and what better way to mark such an extraordinary milestone than with music which has played a key role in the school since our founding?
From the very first note played on Wednesday 19 March 2025 there was an electricity in the air. The Glasshouse, with its world-class acoustics and panoramic views over the River Tyne, proved a fitting stage for such an historic evening. The energy and anticipation were palpable as students from across the school – some performing in a venue of this stature for the first time – took their places with poise and purpose. What followed was a joyful, powerful, and deeply moving evening of music that lit up the night and left a lasting impression on students, families, staff, alumni, and special guests.
His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Tyne & Wear, Ms Lucy Winskell OBE, opened the concert with a powerful reflection on RGS’s rich legacy and enduring commitment to education and the arts. “For five centuries, RGS has stood as a pillar of education, inspiring young minds and shaping future leaders,” she remarked. “What better way to launch these celebrations than through music – a universal language that unites us all.”
The newly commissioned RGS 500 Fanfare, composed by senior student Alissa L (Year 12) provided a rousing introduction to the evening. The bright and brilliant voices of our Junior School Choir followed with their stirring rendition of Swing Low and a medley of traditional North East songs that had the whole crowd signing (and dancing) along.
A special mention must go to our young Junior Choir soloist, Scarlett K (Year 6), who stepped into the spotlight with poise far beyond her years. “It was amazing to have the chance to perform at The Glasshouse – a once in a lifetime opportunity!” she said afterwards. That sense of wonder and pride echoed throughout the night, as performers of all ages brought their very best to the stage.
The Senior ensembles followed with a rich, textured programme that beautifully reflected both our history and our future. From classical masterpieces including the Senior Choir’s Tudor-inspired set, to stirring contemporary works including the Chamber Choir’s own take on the Spice Girls’ pop-culture classic Wannabe, which proved a big hit with the crowd.
A particular highlight was the massed performance of Gloria with the school choir and the RGS community choir being accompanied by the school orchestra. This was followed by a revised and reorchestrated version of our school song Triumphans, conducted with boundless energy and passion by our incredible Director of Music, Mr Smith, and supported by his team of dedicated music staff including Mrs Clappison, Ms Bolt and Ms Fisher. As one Old Novocastrian audience member observed: “It was moving to see the school achieve something so ambitious with such spirit, enthusiasm, and fun.”
The atmosphere in the auditorium was electric, and as the final notes rang out there was a palpable sense of pride and achievement shared by performers and audience alike. For me, the night was a true testament to the strength of our community and the legacy of this remarkable school. The performances were outstanding, and I am incredibly proud of our students and staff for creating such a memorable occasion.
As we continue to mark our 500th anniversary over the coming twelve months, through 2025 and into early 2026, there is so much more to look forward to – events that will bring us together again in celebration of our heritage, our achievements, and our future. I warmly invite every member of the RGS family – past and present – to join us in marking our historic milestone.
To stay up to date with all our anniversary plans, I encourage you to explore our newly launched RGS 500 microsite. It is a digital home for our treasured artefacts, beloved stories and a place to reflect how far we’ve come, and where we’re headed next.
www.rgs.newcastle.sch.uk/500th