K ING’S SCHOOL ROCHESTER
A SCHOOL FOR life
Welcome from THE PRINCIPAL King’s is a remarkable school with a rich and diverse heritage, where pupils have been educated for over 1,400 years under the watchful gaze of Rochester Cathedral and Rochester Castle. Whilst a sense of place is bound to have an impact on the development of our pupils learning here, we believe in preparing them for the 21st century through educating the whole child. It is the skills, experiences and opportunities both inside and outside the classroom that will enable them to thrive in, and make a difference to, a fast-changing and globalised world. Our core values of Happiness, Endeavour, Aspiration, Roundedness and Teamwork (the HEART of King’s) provide a framework around which individual pupils are nurtured and empowered to explore their passions, whilst developing an inner confidence and a deep sense of community. With a warmth of welcome guaranteed, the best way to experience all that we have on offer here at King’s is to come and visit us. With over a thousand years of experience and a world of potential ahead, you will discover that King’s School Rochester is truly a School for Life.
Ben Charles Principal
W ELCO M E TO K IN G ’ S S CH O O L R O CHE S T ER 1
OUR SCHOOL At King’s School Rochester, we proudly proclaim to be a ‘School for Life’ dedicated to nurturing and preparing pupils not just for exams, but for the lifelong pursuit of knowledge, character development and personal growth. King’s is an exceptionally warm and caring learning environment. We nurture the individual and celebrate diversity of talent - there truly is no typical King’s pupil. Each and every one is unique, and is treated as such. With a rich heritage as our foundation, we provide a dynamic and forward thinking environment where pupils embark on a transformative journey that equips them with the skills, values, and resilience they need to excel in the ever-evolving landscape of life beyond our walls. Welcome to a place where learning transcends the classroom and becomes an enduring companion throughout life’s remarkable journey.
2 OUR SCHOOL
Exceptionally warm and caring. - The Good Schools Guide
OUR SCHOOL 3
Whilst we may be the second oldest school in the world, our vision is modern and resolutely forward-looking. 4 HI S TO R I C & TIMELE S S
HISTORIC & TIMELESS Steeped in history and surrounded by breath-taking heritage, King’s School Rochester has moved with the times for over 1,400 years. Our School lies in the shadow of Rochester Castle, nestled within the Cathedral precinct. Countless pupils have passed through the School over the centuries, leaving their mark and creating a tangible sense of history. With our one-of-a-kind setting, our pupils understand what has gone before them and consequently their role in shaping the future. Whilst we may be the second oldest school in the world and the oldest Cathedral Choir School, our vision is modern and resolutely forward-looking. Our pupils are given the mindset, knowledge and self-belief they need to step out, flourish, and emblazon their own positive mark on the world.
HI S TO R I C & TIMELE S S 5
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HI S TO R I C & TIMELE S S 7
MAJESTIC & WELCOMING From Nursery all the way through to the Sixth Form, our School is a home from home, and provides a safe and nurturing environment in which our children grow and develop as part of a supportive community. The best kind of learning environment is a happy one which inspires and provides both the mental and physical space for development. Our majestic Cathedral and grounds are tranquil spaces to learn and live, setting the tone for an enjoyable school life. Happiness and well-being are key to our School’s success, enabling individuals to thrive. Whether boarding or day, each pupil belongs to a House, which provides a sense of security, friendship and belonging. We promote close and supportive relationships between parents, children and teachers, ensuring a seamless educational experience is created, with strong links between home and school. Our pupils’ parents or guardians are an integral cog in the success of the School, and we encourage parents to be as involved as possible in school life. 8 M A JE S T I C & W ELCO M IN G
Our mantra is ‘work hard, play hard and look after each other’.
M A JE S T I C & W ELCO M IN G 9
HISTORIC ROCHESTER King’s School Rochester finds itself situated in the heart of the historic town, nestled amongst cobbled medieval streets under the shadow of the Cathedral.
Our location in Rochester is an integral part of school life.
10 HI S TO R I C R O CHE S TER
A stone’s throw from the beating heart of London, inhabitants of Rochester enjoy rolling countryside hills in one direction, and beautiful seaside in the other. The town is just over half an hour’s train journey away from St Pancras International and easily accessible from Kent and the southeast. This gives our pupils the best of both worlds – a wealth of bustling culture on their doorstep, combined with the peace of living in a picturesque country town. The busy high street, filled with independent businesses and a burgeoning arts scene, means our town is the perfect location to learn, develop and grow. Situated on the banks of the River Medway, Rochester is full of charm and intrigue.
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AMBITIOUS & GROUNDED We foster a sense of ambition in all our pupils, encouraging lifelong passions that set our young people on the path to a fulfilling future. We celebrate everyone’s achievements in all their different guises, and appreciate that every child is unique. Our academic philosophy promotes the individual as a truly grounded and well-rounded person, rather than a narrow specialist. We encourage our pupils to aim high and try their best in everything that they do, both inside and outside the classroom. Our young people understand that as a global community, it is better when everyone succeeds, not just a privileged few. We want our pupils to not only make sense of the world, but to go out into it and make a positive difference. With this in mind, we equip our young people with an understanding of supporting the community around them.
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We give our pupils the skills to succeed and thrive both independently and as part of a team.
AMBITIOUS & GROUNDED 13
Our most recent ISI (Independent Schools Inspectorate) report rated us ‘Excellent’ in all areas.
14 TE ACHIN G & LE A R NIN G
TEACHING & LEARNING Our broad, creative and rich curriculum is geared towards educating the whole child, the goal of which is preparing them for the outside world. Our aim is to instil in our pupils a passion for learning, a questioning mind, and the ability to think as individuals. We give our pupils the skills to succeed and thrive both independently and as part of a team. We encourage our young people to remain as broad as possible across the academic spectrum, ensuring they retain a wide academic outlook. We are proud recipients of an ‘Excellent’ rating from the Independent Schools Inspectorate, a testament to our efforts to deliver an outstanding education. We tailor our teaching to the individual, with class sizes kept small to enable a personalised experience. Our teachers are subject specialists, with many having real world experience within their given subject field, and their enthusiasm is infectious. Digital learning is integrated throughout our curriculum and we employ up-to-date educational practices, involving the use of technology in all year groups. Pupils use a variety of digital tools to support, engage and extend their learning including Apple, Google Classroom, See Saw and Microsoft Learning tools. Pupils have weekly digital learning lessons to cement their skills as digital citizens of the 21st century.
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16 ART & DESIGN
ART & DESIGN From expressive doodles in Nursery through to large contemporary pieces in the Sixth Form, our pupils are encouraged to dream big and unlock their creative potential. The Art and Design department at King’s is a hub of creativity and imagination. Our purpose-built creative studio ensures our pupils enjoy plenty of space and natural light for their latest creations. Over time our pupils are introduced to a wide range of techniques and media, working across a variety of interesting briefs and projects. The department doesn’t restrict itself to the prescribed parameters of the National Curriculum, affording pupils a greater creative freedom and enabling a deeper understanding of the arts. We never underestimate the creative potential of our children, and we have high expectations for all. We teach the technical skill of drawing and observation, to improve our pupils’ artistic style every child has an inner artist! The success of art and design at King’s is celebrated all year round, with displays of our pupils’ work throughout the School.
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MUSIC Music is a cornerstone of our School, with countless opportunities for pupils of all abilities to get involved. Music has been central to our School since 604AD, when it was originally founded to educate the very first choristers. Today, some pupils still come to King’s to be Cathedral Choristers and enjoy this rare and ancient privilege. Our full musical offering is wide and varied. We cater for everyone, including those who want to pursue a serious career in music and individuals who simply enjoy playing and singing. Our pupils play in county and national orchestras and many have gone on to study at leading conservatoires. We offer a wide range of ensembles including choir, orchestra, jazz, wind and rock bands, along with a dazzling programme of regular open-mic nights and annual house music productions. There’s no limit to the musical ambition at King’s School Rochester and we actively encourage everyone to get involved. Musical expression truly serves as the soundtrack to life at King’s.
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DRAMA
King’s School Rochester has a reputation for exceptional drama - from musicals through to Shakespeare.
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Creativity, empathy and critical thinking lie at the heart of the work of the Drama department. We encourage pupils to harness the power of their imagination and learn the art of self-expression. From Year 4, pupils enjoy drama lessons in our fully equipped performance facilities, with the option of performing and working backstage in both Preparatory and Senior School productions. Academic and co-curricular drama are closely integrated, providing exciting opportunities to explore the subject beyond the core curriculum. From Remove (Year 9), pupils are invited to participate in the Theatre Production Company, which meets once a week to help produce our school performances. Support for those wishing to develop their performance skills is offered through a tailored scholarship programme and through LAMDA coaching.
At all levels pupils are encouraged to expand their skill sets and take their craft to the next level. Every production is produced to the highest quality possible, drawing on our links with the industry to bring West End standards to King’s. The highlight of the school year are the Preparatory and Senior School productions – large in scale and ambition, often complex in nature and always looking to push the boundaries of what is possible. A full production can often have over 100 pupils involved – working on stage, behind the scenes and front of house. Pupils learn invaluable life lessons as our ambitions to be the best combine with their collective creativity and hard work – generating magical performances that live long in the memory of those who came to watch.
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SPORT Sport plays a prominent role in everyday school life, providing opportunities for pupils to build their confidence, take care of their physical and mental health, and to develop their team skills.
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All the way through the School, pupils enjoy
The King’s Rochester Sports Centre caters for
excellent coaching and support from specialist
the needs of our athletes, comprising a large
sports’ staff. Children in our Pre-Preparatory School
gymnasium, LTA tennis courts and a fitness suite.
enjoy indoor and outdoor sporting activities,
This compliments our existing playing fields,
along with swimming lessons with specialist
heated indoor swimming pool and boat house
teachers. Pupils from the Preparatory School
situated on the banks of the River Medway.
upwards have four hours of timetabled lessons
Topping it all off is our Paddock, the jewel in our
each week, with many opportunities to compete
crown, which is regarded as one of the finest
and represent King’s against other schools.
cricket fields in the county.
Our approach to sport at King’s is that sport is
For our most talented and committed pupils,
for everyone, regardless of ability or experience
we offer a Sports Scholarship Programme which
– having fun and making progress is what we
provides expert strength and conditioning
value. We offer an ever-growing list of sports and
coaching, as well as mentoring for those wishing
activities, and provide our pupils with extensive
to further develop their talent. We have an
training facilities.
Emerging Athlete Programme, which supports the most committed sportsmen and women who will benefit from additional support in the form of athletic development and target setting, to help them achieve their potential in future years.
SPORT 23
We look out for each other with a sense of collective spirit and camaraderie.
2 4 CONFIDENT & KIND
CONFIDENT & KIND King’s School Rochester is an inclusive school, in which every individual is supported and respected. We encourage our pupils to be as confident and kind as possible. It is our belief that we are one big family, in
Our unashamedly Christian ethos, reinforced by
which we look out for each other with a sense
the presence of the Cathedral in our day to day
of collective spirit and camaraderie. We teach
lives, promotes kindness and the importance of
our pupils to be thoughtful, outward-looking
always thinking of others. Whilst we acknowledge
and compassionate individuals. A collective
our commitment to our historic traditions as a
kindness creates a nurturing and empowering
Christian foundation, we warmly welcome the
environment fostering confident pupils keen to
diversity and breadth of spirituality in a 21st
explore, learn and grow.
century environment. By honouring individual faith and expression, our School is a community which celebrates the exploration of ethical, moral and philosophical ideas.
CONFIDENT & KIND 25
2 6 CO - CURRICUL AR
CO-CURRICULAR It is our core belief that our pupils learn just as much outside the classroom as they do inside. We consider participation in clubs and activities
Our specialist military and civilian instructors
an integral part of the King’s experience. From
deliver leadership training, field exercises and
Reception (4+) through to Sixth Form, there is an
bush craft to name a few. The CCF develops young
extensive range of co-curricular pursuits from
people for any future path they choose, not just a
which to choose, taking place during lunchtime,
military one.
after school and at the weekend. We also offer a range of trips both in the UK and abroad to extend
The Theatre Production Company helps pupils
our pupils’ horizons.
develop a wide range of skills required to run a
In addition to our comprehensive sport, music,
and stage management. Pupils can also opt into
drama and arts programmes, we offer an
an Enrichment Programme, developing life skills
impressive range of activities centring around
such as cooking, car maintenance and poolside
personal development. In the Senior School,
rescue. Our volunteering programme includes
there is a scheduled co-curriculum programme
both internal and external opportunities to
every Friday afternoon, which includes the
support the local community, including a reading
Combined Cadet Force (CCF), the Theatre
programme in local primary schools.
Production Company, volunteering and an
show, including costume, lighting, sound design
Enrichment Programme.
We also offer The Duke of Edinburgh Award, a life
Our CCF supports Senior School pupils to grow
an opportunity to discover new interests and
in terms of self-discipline, self-awareness and
talents outside of their normal friendship groups.
changing, fun experience where our pupils have
motivation, and we offer all three contingents (Air Force, Navy and Army) to our pupils.
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KING’ S SCHOOL ROCHESTER 29
A PUPIL’S journey Every step of the King’s School Rochester journey, from Nursery to Sixth Form and beyond, is designed to help pupils flourish, grow in confidence and discover new passions. Many of our specialist teachers teach across the whole school to ensure smooth transitions through each stage of the journey. 3 0 A P U P I L’ S J O U R N E Y
A P U P I L’ S J O U R N E Y 3 1
32 NURSERY
NURSERY AGE S 3 - 4 With an ‘Excellent’ ISI inspection rating, our Nursery provides a loving, caring and stimulating environment for your child’s first steps into the world. Situated within the walled school grounds, the Nursery is an airy, bright space to learn and play. Pupils are welcomed by the Head everyday, and quickly settle into the Nursery environment, enjoying a happy, positive start to their educational journey. With a high ratio of staff, pupils are taught to be kind, resilient, enquiring and confident. Social skills are developed through learning and participating in activities as a team, in tandem with pupils being encouraged to learn independence – be it putting on a coat or pouring a drink.
NURSERY 33
PRE-PREPARATORY SCHOOL AGE S 4 - 8 The Pre-Preparatory School experience at King’s is geared towards nurturing a strong love of learning. We pride ourselves on the level of individual care and attention we give each child, enabling them to have a happy and memorable start to their educational journey. Our pupils come through the door each morning beaming and leave with the same smile at the end of the day. Enjoying an ‘Excellent’ ISI inspection rating, pupils in the Pre-Preparatory School benefit from learning in a well-resourced, bright and vibrant building and play area. Small class sizes offer a supportive and stimulating environment for learning and specialist teachers deliver our games, music and swimming lessons. French is taught from Reception as at this prime age, children take to the language quickly, benefiting their development and providing exposure to a whole new culture. We recognise the importance of emotional, social and intellectual development, and so our School develops confident, inquisitive learners with an appreciation for the world around them. We encourage our pupils to involve themselves in as many co-curricular, sporting and creative activities as possible and offer a broad range of clubs.
3 4 P R E - P R E PA R ATO R Y S C H O O L
P R E - P R E PA R ATO R Y S C H O O L 3 5
3 6 P R E PA R ATO R Y S C H O O L
PREPARATORY SCHOOL AGE S 8 -13 Judged as ‘Excellent’ by our latest ISI report, the Preparatory School at King’s is a stimulating, nurturing and exciting environment. Children develop as well-rounded individuals, discovering their talents and passions whilst embracing all that life has to offer. During their time in our Preparatory School, we
Our broad academic curriculum is balanced
encourage our pupils to be enquiring, ambitious and
with sporting, musical and creative arts
conscientious. In a fast-changing and sometimes
opportunities. This ensures an all-round education
challenging world, it is important to maintain a
and our pupils develop important skills such as
sense of purpose and self-awareness.
communication, teamwork and leadership.
We teach our pupils the importance of charting
Our Preparatory School is large enough to
their own course, and the value of discovering
offer a full suite of facilities, yet small enough
their inner passions. Small class sizes are
to maintain the caring atmosphere that typifies
maintained to ensure bespoke, tailored
the King’s School Rochester experience.
teaching with plenty of individual attention. P R E PA R ATO R Y S C H O O L 3 7
SENIOR SCHOOL AGE S 13 -16 Senior School at King’s is an environment in which individuals flourish. We challenge and support our pupils to help
The aim of our Senior School is to ignite interests
them realise their academic potential, whilst
and extend the intellect of every pupil, whatever
providing them the space to grow and develop
their strengths may be. What matters is that they
as young adults within a nurturing community.
gain the necessary foundation for an enriched,
As recognised by our ‘Excellent’ ISI inspection rating, pupils achieve outstanding results by developing an enquiring mind and a strong
healthy and fulfilling life, along with sufficient breadth of skills and experiences to enable them to make informed choices on future career paths.
passion for learning. Together with small class
Our pupils in the Senior School develop
sizes, our pupils’ academic progression is
compassion and regard for others, and learn
complimented by skills and interests that are
to have the strength of character that will
nurtured beyond the classroom, with plenty
best enable them to play their part
of co-curricular activities and opportunities in
as valuable members of society.
which to grow.
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SENIOR SCHOOL 39
SIXTH FORM AGE S 16 -18 The Sixth Form at King’s School Rochester is where the foundations are built for each individual to have an extraordinary career.
4 0 THE SIXTH FORM
Pupils are given the freedom and guidance to pursue their own specialisms and explore what destinations they wish to aim for. A level study at King’s has far smaller study groups and a much more mature relationship with teachers and peers. Crucial skills, such as time management and organisation, are developed during these two years, with pupils having a greater responsibility to manage independent study and personal workloads.
We also foster the development of practical
As Sixth Form is an intense two years, we
competences, for instance leadership and
ensure that our pupils are well supported so
team working, as preparation for the world
that they can make the most of their final
beyond A Level.
chapter at King’s. In the Lower Sixth, our pupils
We encourage our pupils to focus their studies upon three or four A Level subjects, plus the option of the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) which greatly improves their opportunities with the best universities.
cultivate broader interests and skills through a program of electives, including subjects such as public speaking and beginners’ Mandarin. In the Upper Sixth, there is a strategic focus on UCAS applications, apprenticeships and career planning.
THE SIXTH FORM 41
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KING’ S SCHOOL ROCHESTER 43
We are one family, where every individual is celebrated and cherished.
4 4 BOARDING
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 family-like feel, where everyone knows one another and is treated as an individual. King’s welcomes both UK and international pupils from Year 7 through to Sixth Form. We offer a range of flexible boarding options to suit everyone’s individual needs and have two boarding houses: School House for the boys and St Margaret’s House for the girls. Upon arrival, every boarder goes through an induction and familiarisation programme to help them feel settled and at home as quickly as possible. We want to ensure that our pupils’ boarding experience is an exciting and happy one, so pastoral support is always on hand 24/7 from the Housemaster or mistress, Tutors and Houseparent. Each boarding house has a common room, study rooms, music practice rooms and a fully stocked kitchen. In addition, all rooms are equipped with the latest high-speed, age-appropriately filtered Wi-Fi, meaning that a video call home is always an enjoyable experience. Bespoke, two course meals are served every dinner time cooked by our own Italian chef, with communal dining between both boarding houses - a highlight of the school day where all our boarders come together with teachers for a delicious meal. All boarders enjoy weekend trips and activities to encourage social interaction and to ensure that our boarders make the most of the cultural experiences on offer to them.
BOARDING 45
A SCHOOL FOR life We instil in our pupils the practical knowledge and skills that will see them through the rest of their education and future careers. At the end of their time at King’s, our pupils leave as well-rounded young adults, who go on to flourish and thrive in whichever path they take. Many Sixth Formers from King’s go on to secure places to study at top Russell Group or Oxbridge universities, whilst others undertake apprenticeships, or join national music colleges. Whatever their destination, we are immensely proud of each individual’s journey and progress during their time at our School.
Old Roffensians Our long established Old Roffensian Society allows past leavers to stay in contact with their contemporaries and participate in events and functions within the wider King’s network. Alumni often return to mentor current pupils, give career advice and offer work experience placements. The King’s community extends past our School walls, even beyond our locality in the South East, providing pupils with a valuable network of contacts that will enrich and further their respective careers, in many cases giving them that crucial ‘foot-in-the-door’.
4 6 A SCHOOL FOR LIFE
Even when our pupils officially leave King’s, they are still part of our story.
A SCHOOL FOR LIFE 47
ADMISSIONS At King’s School Rochester, we work with families to ensure that the admissions process supports you and your child every step along the way. At King’s, we welcome children at all stages from Nursery (3+) to Lower Sixth (Year 12) provided there are places available.
Bursaries Bursaries offer means-tested financial support to pupils who otherwise would be unable to attend.
To find out more information about our
They may be offered in addition to the award of a
admissions process, or to schedule a visit to the
scholarship to increase the value of the award.
School, please contact us on +44 (0) 1634 888590, or email admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk
Safeguarding
Visit Us
The well-being of all pupils at King’s School
The best way to get a real sense of the School is
aims to provide a secure and caring environment
to visit us. We offer private tours and taster days during term time and hold two whole school open mornings each year. Guests are also welcome to all our concerts and drama performances, including those in Rochester Cathedral.
Schools Fees Fees are charged in advance. School fees are reviewed annually, and additional charges are kept to a minimum. Further information about fees and charges are available on our website under our Admissions section.
Rochester is our highest priority. The School so that every pupil can learn and undertake education activities safely. More information on our safeguarding policies can be found on our website.
International Links and Transport King’s School Rochester benefits from excellent transport links to London and beyond, perfect for international pupils. Rochester Train Station is conveniently located less than a 10 minute walk, or a short taxi ride from the School. Our connections to London and international terminals are as follows:
Scholarships
• London St Pancras International 38 mins
King’s School Rochester is pleased to offer a
• Bromley South 28 mins
range of scholarships in both the Preparatory School and Senior School to internal and external pupils in Year 7, Remove (Year 9) and Lower Sixth (Year 12) Pupils with a proven talent in sport, music, drama, art or academic attainment are
• London Victoria 45 mins • Ebbsfleet International 18 mins • Gatwick Airport (via London Victoria) 90 mins • Heathrow Airport (via London Victoria and tube or Heathrow Express) 1h 45mins.
encouraged to apply.
48 ADMISSIONS
scan here for prospectuses
Discover MORE ABOUT EACH OF OUR SCHOOLS AND INFORMATION ON SCHOLARSHIPS »
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.
NURSERY & PRE- PREPAR ATORY SCHOOL
PREPAR ATORY SCHOOL
SENIOR SCHOOL & SIX TH FORM
Chadlington House,
St Nicholas House,
Satis House,
Lockington Grove,
King Edward Road,
Boley Hill,
Rochester, Kent ME1 1RH
Rochester, Kent ME1 1UB
Rochester, Kent ME1 1TE
Telephone +44 (0)1634 888566
Telephone +44 (0)1634 888577
Telephone +44 (0)1634 888555
www.kings-rochester.co.uk