P R E PA R AT O R Y S C H O O L • AG E S 8 - 1 3
There’s one motto we live by at King’s, and that’s simply ‘Work hard, play hard and look after each other’ no matter what age you are...
Welcome to KING’S SCHOOL ROCHESTER King’s Preparatory School is a stimulating, purposeful and caring community, within which children are able to discover their talents and develop as well-rounded and thoughtful individuals. Our broad and balanced curriculum enables children to build towards excellent academic achievement, whilst ensuring that their broader skills of communication, teamwork and leadership are explored through the sporting, musical, dramatic and extracurricular opportunities available. The Preparatory School is large enough to provide an exciting range of opportunities with excellent facilities, but small enough to foster a nurturing and caring atmosphere. Our Christian community welcomes children from a wide variety of backgrounds and faiths, and as a Cathedral Choir School our aim is that all pupils will grow happily in their understanding, knowledge and confidence, underpinned by the positive values which shape our School. My talented Staff and I will do all that we can to see that your child settles quickly, and fully embraces life in the Preparatory School; we look forward to welcoming you.
Tom Morgan Head of King’s Preparatory School
W ELCO M E TO K IN G ’ S S CH O O L R O CHE S T ER 1
VALUES & ETHOS The latest “Excellent in all areas” ISI inspection rating is a testament to the warm and nurturing ethos of our School. Outstanding specialist teaching, small class
whether it is by experiencing the wonder of
sizes and individual care and guidance enable
music in the Cathedral or learning teamwork on
all pupils to prosper in both their academic and
the sports pitch, pupils at King’s develop into
personal development.
polite, well-rounded individuals.
We teach our pupils the importance of charting
During their time in the Preparatory School our
their own course, and the value of discovering
pupils become enquiring, ambitious and
their inner passions. To have a sense of purpose
conscientious, and generations of parents have
and self-awareness are vital character traits for
delighted in the real sense of achievement their
success in today’s fast-changing and sometimes
children have experienced here. We take great
challenging world.
pride in the fact that our young people finish
Academic, sporting, dramatic and musical experiences permeate the curriculum, and
2 VA LU E S & E T H O S
Year 8 furnished with the skills and experiences to forge happy and successful lives.
VA LU E S & E T H O S 3
PASTORAL CARE Small class sizes and our high pupil-staff ratio creates more one-on-one contact time. At King’s the caring atmosphere of mutual respect permeates all aspects of daily school life. We know pupils respond when their individual needs and concerns are addressed quickly and effectively. Individual well-being is something we take very seriously and promote actively. We have a designated Well-being Centre, where a qualified counsellor runs group well-being sessions for all pupils as well as individual counselling sessions for those who need a little extra support. Our Well-being Centre is the hub for our school-wide well-being activities. Pupils throughout the school follow a PSHEE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education) programme, with teaching and learning based around Personal, Social and Emotional Development. In the Preparatory School, the first point of contact for our pupils is their form tutor who has oversight of their progress. In addition to this, the Headmaster, Deputy Pastoral, Deputy Academic, Medical Centre and Chaplain are also available to pupils and parents at any time.
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PA S TO R A L C A R E 5
A broad & innovative CURRICULUM We provide a stimulating and progressive curriculum in preparation for future academic success at GCSE and A Level, whilst equipping our pupils for life in a fast-changing and globalised world. From the start of the Preparatory School in Year 4, all of our pupils are taught by subject specialists who have extensive knowledge and experience within their given subject field. We are also fortunate in having dedicated learning facilities to support subjects. For example, Art and Design lessons take place in our superb Art Studio, Drama in our purpose built Drama Studio, and Science is taught in our fully equipped labs. This differs from the traditional set up in primary schools, where there is normally one teacher for all subjects and only one learning environment. At King’s our broad curriculum focuses on educating rather than testing. We believe in giving our pupils a broad education and our pupils do not sit Key Stage 2 National Curriculum tests (SATs). This enables us to have a wide range of subjects and allows us to teach additional topics such as life skills. We maintain a strong emphasis on language education, building upon the foundation laid during our Pre-Preparatory School years. In Year 4, our pupils continue with French, and in Year 7, they are introduced to Spanish. At this point, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics are introduced as separate disciplines, along with the opportunity to explore Latin. In Years 7 and 8, our pupils follow the King's Diploma programme. Through innovative enquiry days and a focus on sustainability, our pupils tackle authentic real-world problems. This approach nurtures informed, empathetic, and self-aware citizens equipped with the skills sought after by both industry and universities. The Preparatory School curriculum aims to excite and extend the intellect of every pupil, all the while striving to build confidence and self-esteem. We want our children to develop strong academic skills, and grow into kind, caring and respectful young adults.
6 CURRICULUM
Prep. (Homework) at King's We think that giving children homework is a great way to encourage independent learning, as well as helping to consolidate the learning pupils do in the classroom. The amount of homework that the pupils receive increases as they move through the School and is carefully balanced.
P R E P. H O M E W O R K A T K I N G ' S 7
SETTLING IN Our top priority is for all new joiners to feel at home whilst at School. A happy child means a happy learner. Being a small school, with small class sizes,
from other schools in September. This includes
creates an intimate, friendly experience where
Year 3 pupils coming up from the Pre-Preparatory
everybody knows and supports one another.
School to experience Year 4 - an important
Children settle in quickly and soon feel valued as
opportunity to help with the transition into
important members of the school community.
the Preparatory School.
From the start, everyone is encouraged to take part in the many activities and events that happen every week, and this really helps pupils settle in to school life.
Those joining the School from elsewhere are given a buddy and each new pupil will receive a friendly welcoming letter before they arrive. Once here, their buddy will show them around
Each year we run a Familiarisation Day where all
the School, and help them to make friends
year groups move up a year for one day. They are
and settle in.
also joined by the children who are joining King’s
8 SETTLING IN
Tracking Progress at King’s It’s really important to us that each child gets the best out of their education. To support this, pupils in the Preparatory School sit end of year exams, the number of which increases as the pupils move through the School. Pupils also take progress tests to ensure that they are making expected progress.
TR ACKING PROGRESS 9
10 THE ARTS
MUSIC Music is a cornerstone of life at King’s with countless opportunities for pupils of all abilities to get involved. King’s provides the unique opportunity for pupils to become choristers of Rochester Cathedral from Years 4 to 8, and in addition to this prestigious opportunity, our musical offerings are diverse and versatile. Pupils can engage in a wide array of fantastic ensembles including choirs, orchestra, rock band, wind and brass band. Thanks to our extensive team of subject specialist and peripatetic music teachers, we are able to teach all orchestral instruments, drum kit, guitar (acoustic and electric), piano and voice. Alongside our daily music making we run an impressive programme of regular musical events, which includes workshops with professional musicians. Many pupils gain confidence by participating in our frequent formal and informal concerts, and some even progress to performing solos in the Cathedral. Our Christmas and Summer concerts, held in the School Hall and celebration services in the Cathedral, are truly exceptional and incredibly popular occasions. The entire Prep School community - including staff! - get involved in the House Music competitions.
DRAMA Skills pupils learn in Drama provide the bedrock for their future success in life. Many pupils eagerly take the stage in front of large audiences with our muchadmired Prep School musicals and plays. The dramatic and performing arts curriculum is seamlessly integrated with the co-curricular program, ensuring a cohesive experience for those aspiring to perform on the larger school stage. Weekly Drama classes, workshops and school drama productions provide numerous opportunities for all our pupils to develop their creativity and acquire valuable performance skills. Class and year group performances are also held, and each pupil has the opportunity to perform in their class assembly. LAMDA Acting and Public Speaking coaching and examinations are offered to all pupils, building confident communication skills and public speaking abilities. Additionally, there are regular opportunities for pupils to read in our Cathedral Services. To broaden horizons and enhance creativity, we organise regular visits to professional theatre productions and offer the opportunity to partake in practical workshops conducted by professional theatre companies such as Trestle Mask Company and the Unicorn Theatre. THE ARTS 11
ART & DESIGN The Art and Design department is buzzing with creativity and inspiration. The creativity of young minds is extraordinary,
help them build an in-depth understanding of
and it is a privilege to nurture the artisitc
the breadth of creative and design options. Our
potential of each and every pupil. Pupils have a
project-based approach enables many pupils to
strong visual sense, and they love to explore and
achieve a level of artistic skill beyond their age.
discover new things.
We take art and design teaching beyond the National Curriculum, and this lays the foundation
We teach our pupils history of art and design,
for future success at GCSE and A Level.
and they learn about the different techniques to
Scholarships at King’s School Rochester Across music, art, drama , sport and academic, we offer scholarships to those who demonstrate particular skill and ability. Scholarships are awarded into Year 7 to both internal and external candidates. Successful recipients are expected
12 ART & DESIGN
to contribute not just to the area of their award but also to the general activity of the Preparatory School. Further information on scholarships is available on our website, within the Admissions section, or by contacting our Admissions team.
SPORT Our exceptional seasonal sports programme gives pupils at least four hours of games lessons each week. Sport is a truly dynamic and fun experience at King’s. Pupils throw themselves enthusiastically into our enriching programme of activities, building their confidence and ability to work as part of a team. All children benefit from expert specialist sports coaching, and this is vital to support each pupil, regardless of individual ability or level of experience. There are numerous opportunities to represent and compete for the School both as part of a team or as an individual and have fun!
SPORT 13
Co-Curricular CLUBS & ACTIVITIES Our diverse co-curricular options are impressive and naturally complement the immersive educational programme. Pupils benefit from many opportunities to take
The majority of clubs and activities are at no extra
part in a variety of activities. Our children are
cost and take place on-site during lunchtime and
encouraged to broaden and extend their skills
after school. Swimming takes place in our on-site
of communication, teamwork and leadership.
indoor heated swimming pool.
Clubs available include: Art, Athletics, Ballet, Chess, Cricket, DT, Ecology and Gardening, Film Club, Hockey, LAMDA, Lego, Maths, Minecraft, Needlecraft, Netball, Photography, Puzzle Club, Rugby, Running, Soccer and Swimming.
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There are also numerous fun House competitions that take place throughout the year, including House Tiddlywinks and House Conkers.
CO - CURRICUL AR CLUBS & AC TIVITIES 15
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BOARDING Boarding at King’s School Rochester is a true home-from-home experience. Our boarding community is small enough so that it has a real family-like atmosphere, where everyone knows one another and feels supported and cared for. At King's we offer boarding to both domestic and international pupils from Year 7 through to Sixth Form. We have two boarding houses: School House for boys and St Margaret’s House for girls. Rooms in both boarding houses are light and airy with modern furnishings, and equipped with the latest high-speed, age-appropriately filtered Wi-Fi, meaning that a video call home or quick online game with friends is always an enjoyable experience. Depending on the age-group, boarders have access to either an en-suite or communal bathroom close by. Both boarding houses have shared common areas that include facilities for making food and playing games, from relaxed card games to console thrillers. This gives many opportunities for making friends and enjoying each other’s company. Boarders in Year 7 and 8 have their own dedicated area in each House called the Prep Suite, for sole use by our Preparatory School pupils. Our very own Italian chef serves bespoke two course meals with a wide variety of salads at lunch and dinner. The two boarding houses come together every evening for a shared dining experience, a highlight of the school day where pupils and staff share a delicious meal and catch-up on the day’s events. Each boarder is supported upon arrival with a bespoke induction and familiarisation programme. For international pupils, this includes sessions on British culture and how to excel in a UK classroom setting. Each House has several staff members on hand including a Head of House, Tutor and a Houseparent to ensure that pastoral support is available 24/7 so that every King’s boarding pupil has a happy and exciting boarding experience. B O A R D I N G 17
Before and after SCHOOL CARE At King’s, it’s not just our pupils that we care for and support our parents are always at the forefront of our minds too! We understand the challenges balancing work
‘Prep Club’ is available free of charge from
with school drop off and pick up times and so
4.15pm to 5.30pm, for pupils to complete
we have a wraparound care system that helps
homework ("prep") or do quiet reading. We
support our parents.
also offer an ‘After School Supper Club’ which
Wraparound care is offered to support working
runs each day from 5.30pm to 6.30pm.
parents at a supplementary charge. We have
Thanks to our extensive co-curricular programme,
a ‘Breakfast Club’ which runs from 7.30am and
there are also clubs after school most nights.
playground supervision begins at 8.10am.
These are emailed to parents on a termly basis.
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MOVING ON UP King’s ‘One School’ ethos makes the transition to the Senior School seamless. What do we mean by King’s ‘One School’ ethos?
part of the School so they get to know staff and
Essentially the close and natural collaboration
become familiar with the buildings. Teaching staff
between all years and departments creates a
also work very closely with Heads of Department
stress-free and better experience for our pupils
across all three Schools and they meet regularly to
on their journey through the School.
ensure continuity of curriculum and pastoral care.
As many of the Preparatory School lessons are
Although we are always sad to see our pupils
taught in parts of the Senior School by Senior
go, we are confident they leave us well set to
School staff, the transition from Preparatory to
achieve fantastic results in the Senior School
Senior is seamless. From Years 6, 7 and 8, pupils
and Sixth Form!
start to experience more lessons in the Senior
MOVING ON UP 19
FURTHER INFORMATION We work with families to ensure that the admissions process supports you and your child every step along the way. To find out more information or to schedule a visit to the School, please contact us on +44 (0) 1634 888590, or email admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk
Our School Day 7.30am - 8.25am
Breakfast Club
Visit Us
8.10am
Playground supervision begins
to visit us. We offer private tours and taster days
8.25am
Registration
during term time and hold two whole school
8.50am - 10:50am
Lessons
10.50am - 11.15am
Break
11.15am - 1.25pm
Lessons
1.25pm
Lunch
annually, with additional charges kept to a
2.15pm - 4.15pm
Lessons
minimum. Further information about fees and
4.15pm
End of School
4.15pm - 5.30pm
Prep Club
5.30pm - 6.30pm
After School Supper Club
The best way to get a real sense of the School is
Open Mornings each year.
School Fees Fees are charged in advance and reviewed
charges are available on our website within the Admissions section.
Scholarships King’s School Rochester is pleased to offer a range of scholarships in both the Preparatory School and Senior School to internal and
For more information on admissions, fees, scholarships, bursaries and term dates, scan the QR code...
external pupils in Year 7, Year 9 and Year 12. Pupils with a proven talent in sport, music, drama, art or academic attainment are encouraged to apply.
Bursaries We offer means-tested financial support to pupils who otherwise would be unable to attend. Bursaries may be offered in addition to the award of a scholarship to increase the value of the award. .
2 0 F U R T H E R I N F O R M AT I O N
Parking Due to the central and historic location of our School, there is very limited parking during drop off and pick up. Instead, if you are arriving by car, there are numerous car parks nearby which can be found at en.parkopedia.co.uk.
Come and experience our School for yourself. Meet our pupils, talk with our staff, and feel the welcoming and inspiring atmosphere that makes King’s School Rochester so unique.
PREPAR ATORY SCHOOL St Nicholas’ House • King Edward Road • Rochester • Kent • ME1 1UB Telephone +44 (0)1634 888577
www.kings-rochester.co.uk