The Rugby School Group has announced plans to establish Rugby School Nigeria, a new educational institution set to open in the heart of Lagos. The prestigious British school, known for its rich academic heritage, will extend its world-class learning experience to Nigerian students.
According to an official statement on the institution’s LinkedIn page, Rugby School Nigeria will commence operations in September 2025, initially offering Year 12 day placements for A-Level studies. By 2026, the school will expand to accommodate Years 7 to 13, providing both day and boarding options for students aged 11 to 18.
A Global Model for Education
Rugby School Nigeria aims to uphold the distinguished academic and extracurricular standards of its parent institution, Rugby School UK, which has a longstanding history of excellence. Speaking on the launch, Neil Hampton, CEO of Rugby School Nigeria, emphasized the significance of the expansion.
“Rugby School Nigeria is the latest addition to the Rugby School Group. Rugby School has a tradition of welcoming Nigerian students, and this new development will bring that experience closer to home,” Hampton said.
Nick Bacon, Chairman of Governors at Rugby School Group, described the initiative as a milestone in the institution’s history.
“This is a historic moment for Rugby School,” Bacon stated. “Since our founding in 1567, we have been pioneers in education. From the invention of Rugby Football on our playing fields in 1823 to Dr. Arnold’s 19th-century education reforms that influenced global education, we have remained committed to excellence. Rugby School Nigeria continues this legacy.”
Student Perspective and Vision for the Future
The decision to open a campus in Nigeria has been met with enthusiasm, including from current Rugby School students. Jade, the school’s Deputy Head Girl, expressed her excitement about the new development.
“Now that Rugby School is moving to Nigeria, especially for Sixth Form, I definitely would have considered staying there,” she said. “The same quality of education will be available, and that’s fantastic.”
Rugby School Nigeria will be the third international sister school of the Rugby School Group. Located within the world-class Eko Atlantic development in Lagos, it aims to merge the excellence of the British education system with the cultural richness of Nigeria and Africa.
The school’s mission is to provide a transformative learning environment that nurtures academic excellence, leadership, and global perspectives. With its launch, Rugby School Nigeria is set to become one of West Africa’s leading institutions for secondary education.
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