TWO independent Worcester schools have been named in The Sunday Times' prestigious 'Parent Power Guide'.

The UK’s highest-achieving secondary schools are ranked in the 31st edition of The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide 2024. 

RGS Worcester and The King's School were the only two schools in the city, and the greater county, to rank in the top 10 independent schools in the West Midlands.

RGS Worcester was placed at sixth, and The King's School was placed at seventh on the list. 

John Pitt, headmaster of RGS Worcester, said: “We are delighted to have been named the top independent school in Worcester and across Worcestershire and placed in the top ten in the West Midlands. 

"This recognises the hard work of our pupils, the inspiration of our staff and the commitment and support of our parents.

"We continue to review and increase the choice and opportunities available for our pupils. With so many achievements across all areas of school life, we are really excited about the future at RGS.”

Gareth Doodes, headmaster at The King's School, was also delighted with the school’s prestigious achievement.

He said: “To be ranked for the third year running as one of the Top 10 Independent Schools in the West Midlands is fantastic news.

"It is excellent recognition for the hard work put in by pupils, and the ongoing inspiring teaching here at King’s.

"It is a testament to the rounded education and inclusive ethos we have at King's and a real boost for the King’s Foundation of Schools.

"We’d like to congratulate RGS on joining us this year in the league table. This a wonderful accolade for the strength of the educational offering in our great city and county.”

Helen Davies, editor of Parent Power, said: “The educational landscape continues to be challenging across both the state and independent sectors, and this is the first true assessment of post-pandemic exam results.

"We believe these rankings – and all the additional information on offer in Parent Power – provide parents with a more reliable guide to academic achievement in schools today. 

“The guide showcases academic excellence but also celebrates schools who may not be right at the top but are rising, innovating and helping pupils flourish."

The fully searchable national database of over 1,000 schools by name, local authority, town and postcode, is available online from Friday, December 1 and as a print supplement with The Sunday Times on Sunday, December 3. ​