Dr D Burnett, BA PhD NPQH
Founded by Royal Charter in 1608, The Royal School Dungannon (RSD) is one of Ireland's oldest schools. Situated in its own spacious grounds in the market town of Dungannon, it enjoys excellent road links to Belfast and Dublin and their three airports. A recent rebuilding and renovation programme has provided modern classroom facilities across all subjects as well as excellent sporting facilities.
Academic excellence is at the centre of what RSD is about and around 95% of RSD Sixth Formers go to university, including many of the UK and Ireland's leading universities. We value intellectual development in the broadest sense and pupils are encouraged not only to learn about their subjects and be successful in public examinations but also to find out about the world around them and about themselves.
RSD pupils are well-supported by their subject teachers, pastoral staff and specialist staff. There is a commitment to seeing each pupil as an individual and helping every pupil to enjoy school and to reach their potential. The range of extra-curricular activities and the House system provide opportunities for pupils to contribute to a team, take on responsibility and lead.
Our School motto, 'Perseverando', translates from the Latin as "by persevering" and it reminds us that if we want success then we have to work hard and never give up. Central to RSD's ethos is the idea of facing up to failure along the way to success. This is not a school where being right first time, all the time is what matters but a school where working hard to improve is prized greatly. Pupils are encouraged to seek excellence with a sense of resilience and integrity.
RSD offers five and seven day boarding. The Boarding houses have recently been refurbished to offer high-quality, modern accommodation which creates a home-from-home atmosphere. Boarders are looked after by a dedicated Boarding team of teachers, matrons, chaplain and tutors. There is a strong focus on both academic achievement and enjoying school life. Weekends are a busy time with many boarders involved in school sports or taking part in trips and activities, often with a local day pupil's family. For pupils whose first language is not English there is support from the TEFL teacher. There is a great sense of community and working together to support one another and boarders are amongst the highest achieving pupils at RSD at GCSE and A Level.
