PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Welcome from THE PRINCIPAL
I am delighted to welcome you to King’s School Rochester. It is a remarkable school with a rich and diverse heritage; people have been educated here for over 1,400 years under the watchful gaze of Rochester Cathedral and Rochester Castle.
While a sense of place is bound to have an impact on the development of the children learning here, it is the skills, experiences and opportunities provided to them, both within and outside the classroom, that will enable them to thrive in an uncertain and fast-changing world.
At King’s, we believe in preparing children for the 21st Century through educating the whole child. Our priority is ensuring that happy children perform to their best and the school is an exceptionally happy and friendly place where moral values, self-discipline, emotional intelligence and a Christian spirit underpin our family community.
This is a school where all are cared for as individuals and where links between home and School are a real strength.
Ben Charles Principal
OUR VISION
As the second oldest school in the world and a school firmly established in the Medway Towns, we honour the tradition of our 1400 year history, while offering our pupils a forward-looking preparation for a globalised future.
We wish the members of our community to be happy and fulfilled and our purpose as a school is to offer an outstanding all-round education that enables each individual to flourish.
Our founding forefathers, St. Justus and St. Paulinus, sent from Rome to England as part of a Christian mission in the early 7th Century, provide us with an ongoing sense of duty, moral purpose and resilience in the 21st Century.
In the spirit of our ancient Christian foundation, we encourage our pupils to ‘Work Hard, Play Hard and Look After Each Other.’
Our vision is modern and our past is great.
Our Aims:
We wish the members of our community to:
• Be happy and fulfilled
• Develop a love of learning through a unique breadth of experience
• Be adaptable and resilient for a fast-paced changing world
• Make an active difference to the lives of others in our community and beyond
• Develop a sense of identity to lead purposeful lives as their own person
The Heart of King’s
‘Ere the heart of brave Paulinus…’
…‘Justus (name of omen!)’
(King’s School Rochester, School Song)
At the centre of everything we do is the HEART of King’s. By being part of this community, each one of us aspires to the attributes and qualities of:
Happiness
We want individuals to flourish and to be happy. We encourage everyone to be themselves and we believe that positive personal connections are powerful. By keeping kindness at the centre of our community, we nurture a strong sense of personal and communal wellbeing and care.
Endeavour
We strive to be the best we can be and we are determined to make the most of the breadth of opportunities available to us. We care about things that matter and we are committed to making an active contribution.
Aspiration
We seek to foster a sense of aspiration in all that we do, built on an inner confidence and self-belief. We aim to ignite our curiosity and encourage ourselves to develop lifelong passions that set us on a path to a fulfilled future in a fastpaced modern world.
Roundedness
We seek a balanced approach to life at King’s, ensuring that we educate the whole person. We celebrate everyone’s achievements and appreciate that every one of us is unique and different. We recognise that as a global community it is better when everyone succeeds, not just a privileged few.
Teamwork
We believe we achieve more when we collaborate together and we seek to make a positive contribution to the communities within King’s and beyond. We acknowledge that we must work together for a sustainable future ensuring that King’s remains a school for life.
Welcome from THE HEAD OF THE PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Welcome to King’s School Rochester Preparatory School, a vibrant and nurturing community where children are encouraged to discover their talents and grow into well-rounded individuals.
As both Head of our PrePreparatory and Preparatory Schools, I oversee the education and well-being of all King’s pupils aged 3 years to 13 years, ensuring a smooth transition from PrePrep to Prep. Our dedicated staff team is committed to ensuring every child settles quickly and thrives within our School. Thanks to small class sizes and specialist teaching, the school provides a supportive environment where each child receives personal attention, both academically and pastorally.
Our broad and balanced curriculum not only supports excellent academic achievement but also
fosters essential skills in communication, teamwork and leadership. Through a wide range of co-curricular activities, children are encouraged to embrace all aspects of school life while maintaining a balance.
Large enough to offer extensive facilities yet small enough to maintain a caring, close-knit atmosphere, our Christian community welcomes children from all backgrounds and faiths. As a Cathedral Choir School, we aim to help all children grow in understanding, confidence and knowledge, guided by the positive values that shape our school.
We look forward to welcoming you to our Preparatory School.
Kellie Crozer Interim Head of KSR Preparatory School
THE FIRST DAY
Most children will have attended one or more Taster Days with us before starting at King’s and you may have also attended an Information Evening.
Where to arrive
On your first day, please arrive at the Preparatory School at 8.15am.
Due to our central and historic location, we can not offer on-site parking and ask you to find a space in one of the local car parks, the nearest being only 5 minutes walk away at Union Street Car Park (ME1 1XZ).
Please come through the brown gates on King Edward Road and head to the main reception in St Nicholas’ House on the left hand side of the Preparatory School playground.
The Head of the Preparatory School or one of the Deputy Heads will welcome you and then take your child to their Form room to introduce them to their Form Teacher and class.
What to wear
All pupils should wear the official King’s School Rochester uniform as outlined further on in this booklet. Uniforms must be purchased in advance from the School’s online uniform supplier, Perry Uniform. (www.perryuniform.co.uk).
All items must be clearly labelled with your child’s first name and surname.
What to bring
Pupils should arrive with their learning device, school stationery, a full water bottle, a mid-morning snack, their games kit in the regulation kit bag and swim bag.
Everything that is brought to school must be clearly labeled with your child’s first name and surname.
Pupils in Years 4, 5 and 6 will use a school-managed Apple iPad and pupils in Years 7 and 8 (and through to Upper Sixth) will use a school-managed Microsoft Surface Go/Pro device.
These devices can be the pupil’s own device or we have partnered with a company called Easy4U to provide a rental service. This option means you will not need to purchase the devices outright, and you will be able to return them at the end of the rental period.
For devices that you purchase privately, you will need to bring it to the School at least two weeks before your first day to ensure all standard school software can be installed prior to lessons beginning.
What NOT to bring!
Sweets, energy drinks, chocolate, electronic games, trading cards, any kind of jewellery,
Mobile telephones are collected at the start of each day and given back to pupils at the end of the School day.
What to expect
At the start of a new term, the day begins with a Form Period, followed by an Assembly.
After morning break, there are a range of activities to help all the pupils settle into the new academic year.
Your child will also be issued with a timetable and a calendar for the term. These are often emailed out to parents beforehand.
The School day ends at 16:15 and pupils must sign out in the Preparatory School Yard promptly.
Due to our central and historic location, we can not offer on-site parking and ask you to find a space in one of the local car parks, the nearest being only 5 minutes walk away at Union Street Car Park (ME1 1XZ).
However, if you are collecting your child from an after-school club, parents are welcome to park in the Preparatory School yard after 16:45 every day, but not at all on Wednesdays.
If a pupil has not been collected by 16:25, they will automatically be sent to Prep. Club. To collect your child from Prep. Club, please telephone 01634 888577. They will be signed out in the Library and sent to meet you in the Preparatory School Yard.
THE SCHOOL DAY
Our School Day
7.30am - 8.25am
8.10am
8.25am
8.50am - 10:50am
10.50am - 11.15am
11.15am - 1.25pm
1.25pm - 2.15pm
2.15pm - 4.15pm
4.15pm
4.15pm - 5.30pm
5.30pm - 6.30pm
Before & After School Care
We understand the challenges balancing work with school drop off and pick up times and so we have a wraparound care system that helps support our parents.
Wraparound care is offered to support working parents at a supplementary charge. We have a ‘Breakfast Club’ which runs from 7.30am and playground supervision begins at 8.10am.
‘Prep Club’ is available free of charge from 4.15pm to 5.30pm, for pupils to complete homework (“prep”) or do quiet reading. We also offer an ‘After School Supper Club’ which runs each day from 5.30pm to 6.30pm.
Thanks to our extensive co-curricular programme, there are also clubs after school most nights. These are posted on the Parent Portal and emailed to parents on a termly basis.
Bus routes
King’s School Rochester provides five bus services for Preparatory and Senior School pupils. Buses run from Gravesend/Longfield, Kings Hill/West Malling, Maidstone/ Bearsted, Rainham/Bobbing and Sevenoaks
There are Full Tickets, Half Tickets and dated Casual Tickets available.
There is more information on our website at www.kings-rochester.co.uk/admissions/school-transport or please contact Katie Simmons, on 01634 888 515.
SNACKS & LUNCH
Pupils in the Preparatory School must bring in their own filled water bottle each day, along with a healthy and nutritious snack to eat at first break. Our Nut-Aware school approach applies to everyone at King’s. We ask that pupils, parents, staff and visitors avoid bringing any food or drinks which contain nuts onto our sites..
Canned drinks or those in glass bottles are not permitted for safety reasons. Chewing gum, bubble gum or any kind of sweets are not permitted in school.
Pupils are not allowed to eat or drink in the Preparatory School building. All litter should be placed in the numerous litter bins or recycling bins provided.
A freshly-cooked, two-course lunch is prepared on site
and served daily in the Dining Room at the Conference Centre, next to St Margaret’s House.
The menu is published every week via the Parent Portal with a vegetarian option every day. Pupils are expected to observe good table manners at all times.
If your child has special dietary requirements, please state these clearly on your child’s Medical Form or let the School know by letter or email. As all our meals are cooked on site, special medical dietary needs can usually be catered for by our experienced catering team with adequate notice.
On the occasions when pupils are playing matches away from school or are on a school trip, a packed lunch is provided at no additional cost.
PASTORAL CARE
At King’s the caring atmosphere of mutual respect permeates all aspects of daily school life. 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.
We also have the ‘Bob Box’ into which pupils can write and post any worries or concerns. This is monitored regularly by our Deputy Head Pastoral.
All our boarders can also talk to any member of the House staff at the girls’ boarding house (St Margaret’s) or boys’ boarding house (School House).
REWARDS
King’s Points
It is important that all our pupils realise we want them to be happy in school at all times and it is our job to listen to any concerns or worries – they are never alone.
School Houses
Each pupil in the Preparatory School is placed in one of four Houses: Storrs, Whiston, Parker or Crick. The idea of the House system is to provide a vertical mix throughout the School to enable pupils to build relationships with older children who can offer social and emotional support for the ups and downs of school life.
House Captains are appointed from Year 8 and there are House meetings throughout each term.
House Competitions
There are numerous House competitions throughout the year and all pupils are encouraged to represent their House. Activities vary from sporting, academic, musical and dramatic competitions to more eccentric ones like House Conkers or House Tiddlywinks!
& RECOGNITION
If a pupil produces good quality work or has worked hard, a ‘King’s Point’ is awarded. Pupils can also receive a King’s Point for the following criteria:
• Marvellous manners
• Contribution to class discussion
• Participation in school life
• Perseverance
• Looking after others
• Great collaboration
• Considering our community
The number of King’s Points a pupil receives is recorded by the School and when pupils achieve certain thresholds, they will receive a certificate of recognition in assembly or as part of a Cathedral service.
School Prizes
Each year, numerous prizes are awarded on Prize-Giving Day at the end of the Summer term in the Cathedral. The award of school Prizes to pupils is based on their performance throughout the year and/or in the end of year examinations. There are also prizes solely associated with various academic competitions.
Pupils will receive a maximum of two prizes, except in the case of our Academic Scholars, who may be awarded additional subject prizes. The purpose of this regulation is that prizes should be distributed as widely as possible amongst the pupil body to reward and encourage merit.
Monitors
Pupils in Year 8 are given responsibility as School Monitors. There are various Monitors’ duties, including the role of House Captain.
School Council
One pupil from each Form is elected to represent that Formon the School Council. The Council meets several times each term to discuss any matters of concern and put forward ideas which may benefit the pupil community.
School Colours
Colours (Full, Half and Colts) are awarded for representing the School in sport, and for a number of non-sporting activities. These are denoted by a ribbon worn on the breast pocket of the School blazer.
Full Colours
These are awarded to pupils for excellence and commitment (Potential County Standard or thereabouts for sports).
Half Colours
These are awarded to pupils who show a degree of ability and have been both committed and loyal to the sport or activity over a sustained period of time.
Colts Badges
Awards are made in sport at Under 11 level for pupils who have shown exceptional ability and commitment throughout Years 4, 5 and 6. These are denoted by badges worn on the School blazer.
The Colours employed at present are:
Athletics - Fawn
Rugby - Red
Swimming - Light Blue
Hockey - Emerald
Cricket - White
Rounders - Brown
Chess - Yellow
Drama - Maroon
Music - Orange
General Knowledge - Turquoise
SCHOOL RULES & GUIDELINES
The School rules and guidelines appear in the Preparatory School Handbook, available to all pupils at the beginning of each term. They are largely a matter of common sense and are designed to remind us to care about others, ourselves, learning and the environment.
Work hard, play hard and look after each other
a. Caring about others:
To make sure that our school runs pleasantly and efficiently:
• Treat other people with respect and consideration – never be unkind to anyone
• Bullying will not be tolerated. Bullying includes namecalling, cyber-bullying, teasing, making unpleasant personal remarks, sexual or racial comments and physical violence. You must remember that bullying is not only physical, aggressive and deliberately intimidating, but also quiet and subtle. The latter is no less damaging and will be punished
• You are expected to always be truthful, helpful and polite
• In the interest of safety, pupils should walk on the left when inside the buildings
• Hold open doors for adults and each other
• You should stand up and be quiet when a teacher or a visitor enters your classroom and be courteous at all times
• Pupils are expected to obey, without question, all instructions given by any member of staff
• All pupils should acknowledge adults courteously at all times. The School cap or boater should be raised when greeting adults and acknowledging courtesy from motorists who stop to allow one to cross the road
The School mantra
• Say “Good Morning”, “Please” and “Thank You”
• If you see a parent or visitor looking lost in the School, tell a member of staff or one of the secretaries
• You are expected to be quiet walking to and from the Cathedral and Chadlington House for Assembly
• Pupils walking on public footpaths must give way to other pedestrians especially in the Precinct, round The Paddock and on the way to and from the Alps. Never walk more than two abreast
• When playing sport for the School, be courteous and a good sport. Greet and say goodbye to your visitors. Thank the referee, umpire and your opponents at the end of the match
• Always look after your own property and respect that belonging to others
• If you find anything which has been lost, hand it either to its owner or a member of staff.
b. Caring about yourselves:
To reduce the chances of having an accident, or causing an accident, and to help you lead a healthy and successful career at school:
• Do not run outside when going to lunch or any lessons at the Prep or Senior School
• Do not run inside any buildings and always keep to the left, especially on staircases
• Be careful when you cross the road. Thank motorists who stop for you at the humps in Vines Lane and at pedestrian crossings
• At lunch, do not waste food. You may ask for a small portion but you are expected to eat what is on your plate
• Take pride in your appearance and always make sure your shoes are clean and shiny
• Make sure all your clothes and other belongings are clearly labelled
• If you are feeling worried or unhappy about anything, you must tell someone.
c. Caring about learning:
To make sure you are always able to give your best:
• Be punctual for all lessons, games and other activities
• Ask permission from a teacher should you need to miss, or be late for, any lessons
• Always have a reading book with you when going to lessons; iPads are not to be used for reading in DEAR (Drop Everything And Read) time
• Always try your best, work quietly and do not talk or fool around in class
• If you find work too difficult, you must talk to your subject teacher, your Form Tutor, Deputy Pastoral, or the Head of the Preparatory School. We want to help you and make sure you are happy
• Make sure that your work is always presented in the manner shown on the presentation guideline page of the pupil handbook
d. Caring about the environment:
To make sure that our School is a pleasant and attractive place in which to work:
• Do not drop litter but place it in the nearest waste paper or recycle bin. You will find numerous bins around the playground, in every classroom and in corridors
• Keep your locker and classroom tidy
• If you have an accident or break something tell an adult at once
Lessons
• Pupils should be punctual for all school commitments and hand work in on time
• If the member of staff teaching a class has not arrived within five minutes of the beginning of a period, one pupil should report to the office in St Nicholas’ House
Detention
There are three levels of detention at King’s School Rochester:
1. A Yellow Card Detention is for poor pupil behaviour or lack of work and takes place during the first break (10:50 – 11:15) on a Friday morning
2. A Red Card Detention is given for serious misconduct or continued failure to complete work to an adequate standard and takes place during lunch break (13:15 – 14:15) on a Friday afternoon
3. A Headmaster’s Detention takes place at 9:30am on a Saturday morning and is for extreme misbehaviour
Break and Lunch Time
• When a whistle is blown in the yard, all pupils should fall silent, stand still and await instructions
• At break-time or lunch-time, all pupils are expected to be out of the Preparatory School building unless going to the Library
• Pupils are allowed to play table tennis in the St Ronan’s playground
• No ball games are permitted on the Yard before or after School
• Only soft balls may be used on the Preparatory School yard during break or lunch time
• If a ball lands in King Edward Road during informal playground games, permission to retrieve it must be obtained from the member of staff on duty
• Informal games on the yard should stop whenever an adult crosses
• In dry weather, pupils are allowed to play on the Paddock as long as they change their shoes. On the Paddock other types of balls are permitted
• Pupils must be aware that motor vehicles use the Yard. In the interest of safety, they should exercise extreme caution, particularly when a horn is sounded
Property
• School property must not be defaced
• Damage to school property must be reported at once to a member of staff
• School premises must be kept tidy, clear of litter and personal property must not be left lying about
• All uniform, games kit, books, devices and other personal property must be clearly labelled with a pupil’s first name and surname
• Other pupils’ property may not be borrowed without the express permission of the owner
• Buying, selling, swapping or exchanging is not permitted on school grounds
Fire Safety
During the evacuation of a building in the event of fire or a fire drill, the rule is to walk in silence and proceed to The Paddock
External Bounds
During School hours (including breaks), pupils must remain within the Preparatory School premises. Exceptions are pupils who have permission from the Headmaster to be elsewhere.
Pupils who have a lesson at the Senior School should not leave the Preparatory School environs until five minutes before the start of the lesson. They should walk together as a Form and return as a Form, unless they are in Year 8 and they are allowed to walk to their lessons in pairs.
Science laboratories, the DT centre, Vines Hall, Drama Studio, Chadlington Hall and the swimming pool may only be entered in the presence of a member of staff.
Roads are to be crossed at specific points:
• Vines Lane should be crossed at the section opposite The Paddock gates
• St Margaret’s Street should be crossed by the door to the swimming pool or by using the pedestrian crossing near the Senior School
• Lockington Grove is out of bounds at all times other than for picking up and setting down by the School gate
ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCE
Pupils are expected to be at school by 8:15am.
The register for each Form is taken at 8:30am each day and again before afternoon school.
For security reasons, it is extremely important that parents of pupils who are absent for any reason telephone the office between 8:15am and 8.30am so that we are able to account for every child’s whereabouts. In the case of illness, a telephone call is only required for the first day of absence and upon a pupil’s return.
The School Office can be contacted on 01634 888577 or via email at prep@kings-rochester.co.uk.
If a pupil arrives after 8.30am or during the course of the day following an appointment, they must register at the School Office in St Nicholas’ House on arrival.
Absence from school or from school engagements (such as sports fixtures, concerts, drama rehearsals, etc), except through illness, is not acceptable unless with the prior permission from the Head of the Preparatory School.
Requests for such leave of absence should be made in writing at least three weeks in advance and should be addressed directly to the Head of the Preparatory School.
Holidays should not be taken during term time.
UNIFORM
The School is frequently congratulated on the smart appearance and polite manners of its pupils. We are particularly proud of the King’s School Rochester uniform and pupils are expected to wear it with pride.
In this section, you will find a comprehensive list of the uniform requirements for your child. Please check the list carefully to ensure that you buy the correct new items.
Items marked* may only be purchased from our uniform partner, Monkhouse Schoolwear Specialists (www.monkhouse.com).
Please note that the start of a new academic year is always very busy. We strongly recommend that you place your order before the end of June to ensure all garments arrive and are the correct size in time for the start of term in September.
It is essential that all items of uniform are clearly labeled with first name and surname.
Ordering online
Orders can be placed online at www.monkhouse.com. Select the ‘Find your school’ option and locat e the ‘King’s School Rochester’ section to find a comprehensive uniform list.
Ordering by phone
Monkhouse Schoolwear Specialists operates a number of stores, including:
Newnham Court Shopping Village
Bearsted Rd
Maidstone ME14 5LH
Maritime, Dockside Outlet Centre
Maritime Way
St Mary’s Island ME4 3ED
For Monkhouse Customer Service, please call 0161 476 7216.
Summer and Winter Uniform
All pupils in the Preparatory School can return in Summer or Winter uniform at the start of the new academic year in September (Michaelmas Term) depending on the weather.
All pupils must be in Winter uniform after the October Half Term. Winter coats in cold or wet weather should always be worn.
Summer uniform must be worn in the Midsummer Term (mid April to July).
Caps/hats must be worn to and from school each day by pupils in Years 4 and 5.
Caps, hats or boaters are required for all pupils on Tuesdays for our Cathedral Service and on all special occasions.
Winter
• Cap* - Years 4 and 5 only
• Hat* - Navy felt with the School band for Years 4 and 5 only
• Boater* - Years 6, 7 and 8 only (These are currently unavailable for purchase. More information will follow later in the academic year 2023 -24)
• Winter Coat* - School-crested windcheater
• School Blazer* - Navy blue with trim and school crest
• Trousers - Tailored long, grey trousers (not charcoal). No turn ups or jersey material
• Skirt* - Mid-Grey, inverted pleat skirt without waistband (skirts should be no more than one inch above the knee)
• Shirt - White, long sleeved (short sleeved in the summer –optional). Collars must be stiffened and without buttons
• Socks - Short plain grey socks if worn with trousers. For Years 4, 5 and 6 knee length plain grey socks or grey tights with a skirt. Years 7 and 8 may wear knee length plain grey socks or black tights
• Shoes - Traditional flat black, leather shoes or black trainer-style shoes are required. Boots, patent shoes, shoes with tassels or bars through the sides or at the front are not permitted.
• Jumper* - School Regulation Grey with school trim
• Tie* - School tie
• Scarf* - School scarf with short stripes – (optional). No other scarves are allowed
• Beanie Hat - A KSR beanie hat is available for purchase directly from the school
• School Back Pack* - School Regulation. No other bags are permitted Summer
Summer uniform is the same as Winter uniform apart from:
• White ankle socks with skirts. Natural tights are acceptable for Years 7 and 8
• All pupils must wear boaters except for boys in Years 4, 5 and 6 who continue to wear their cap
• Former Pre-Prep pupils may continue to use their Pre-Prep boaters, but these must be replaced with the Preparatory / Senior School boater when the need arises and definitely before the start of Year 7
Sportswear – All Year Round
• Trainers - 1 pair of white trainers
• Shorts* - 1 pair black shorts with school crest
• Socks - Plain white ankle socks
• Sports bag* - With House colour
• Polo Shirt* - Black/blue in school colours with crest
• Skhort* - In school colours with crest
• Socks* - Blue socks with white hoops
• Swimming trunks* / Swimming costume - School regulation black only
• Swimming bag* - Blue with school crest
• Fleece Tracksuit Top* - School colours with crest
• Black Tracksuit bottoms* - School colours with crest
• Waterproof Tracksuit top* - School regulation – optional
• Base layer leggings
• Base layer top
• Towel - For swimming
• Baseball hat* - School colours (Midsummer Term only)
Rugby kit and Football kit (Boys in Michaelmas term)
• Boots - Football/rugby boots. All studs must bear the British Standard Safety Kitemark
• Hooped Shirt* - In School colours with crest
• Gum shield - It is compulsory to wear mouthguards for rugby
• Socks* - Blue socks with white hoops for rugby/football Hockey Kit (Girls in Michaelmas term)
• Hockey stick - (Lent Term only) For Year 5 upwards (Year 4 use School sticks)
• Shin pads - Compulsory for hockey and football
• Socks* - Blue socks with white hoops for rugby/ football/hockey.
Cricket Kit (Midsummer term)
• Baseball hat* - School colours
• Abdominal protector (cricket box) and pants
Cricket whites are only needed for those pupils selected for the school team. This includes sweater, shirt and tracksuit bottoms.
Hair
Boys’ hair must not be below the top of the shirt collar or over the ears. Boys should have their hair cut before the start of each term and again at half-term if necessary.
Girls’ hair should be tied back (with black or navy hair bands) if it reaches shoulder length. No additional hair decorations may be worn, including coloured braids, beads, ribbons and bows.
No colours or tints are permitted.
Matters of appearance are inevitably subjective. The final decision as to whether a hair style is acceptable always rests with the School within term time.
Jewellery
No jewellery may be worn at the Preparatory School.
Girls in Years 7 and 8 are permitted to wear small stud earrings as long as they are able to remove them for Sport.
DIGITAL LEARNING DEVICES
Pupils in Years 4, 5 and 6 will use a school-managed Apple iPad. Pupils in Years 7 and 8 (and through to Upper Sixth) will use a school-managed Microsoft Windows 11 Surface 7 Pro (or later) or a Surface Go 2 (or later). All devices MUST have a keyboard and a stylus. Please note that MacBooks will not be allowed in school from September 2024 as we cannot filter and monitor those devices in compliance with KCSIE23.
These devices can be purchased through the School’s provider, Easy4U, or privately. In emergencies, parents can rent a school-owned Surface Go/iPad from the School at £120 per term (for a maximum of three terms).
All devices require standard school software to be installed before being allowed to be used at school. You will need to bring it to the School at least two weeks before your first day to ensure all standard school software can be installed prior to lessons beginning.
Pupils are expected to have a learning device ready and charged for every lesson. Loan devices are available from the School’s IT Helpdesk in emergencies.
All pupils must abide by and sign the IT Acceptable Use Policy. In addition to the standard principles of making ageappropriate, legal use of computer technologies for learning purposes, there are strict rules on social media. Pupils must not use social media sites or apps to mistreat other pupils, staff or their families by posting unkind, defamatory or untrue comments or images that will cause offence. The School reserves the right to investigate and take action in the light of investigations even if the activity concerned refers to pupils’ lives outside of school hours. The School has a comprehensive IT Acceptable Use policy which includes a section on social media.
Every pupil is given a King’s email address that forms the basis of their online services, including Microsoft Office tools, Google Services and Adobe Services. Their email address is also the basis of their school network access, including Wi-Fi.
Senior School teachers use Google Classrooms to post homework (Prep), files, links and other activities for lessons. Some teachers also make use of Microsoft OneNote and other digital tools. It is expected that pupils are familiar with these tools to fully participate in lessons. Parents and guardians can monitor prep/assignments given in Google Classroom as well as access grade cards and reports via MyKSR.info (My School Portal). Pupils can use MyKSR.info to access their grade cards/reports and check on how many King’s points they have accumulated.
STATIONERY LIST
All pupils from Year 5 upwards are encouraged to use a fountain pen with a medium or fine nib. If necessary, left handers should have a fountain pen with a special nib.
Berol handwriting pens may be substituted for a fountain pen if agreed with the English teacher concerned.
The stationary list for all pupils is:
• A pencil case;
• A fountain pen with blue, washable ink* (we recommend a Parker Vector or Lamy pen as they have a rounded nib) or a Berol Handwriting pen;
• Ink cartridges;
• A green, pink and red pen used for self-marking and correcting work;
• Pencils (including HB for marking music);
• Rubber;
• Pencil sharpener;
• A pair of scissors;
• A 15 cm and a 30 cm ruler;
• A 180-degree protractor (all years);
• Compass (years 7 and 8);
• Colouring pencils;
• A highlighter;
• Glue stick;
• 1 set of Head/Earphones;
• The age-appropriate digital device.
We also require pupils to carry the following items in their school bag:
• Tissues
• A reading book
• A water bottle
• Hair brush or comb
PERSONAL POSSESSIONS
Laser pens and any kind of knives are strictly forbidden at school.
Mobile Phones Are NOT ALLOWED for pupils in Years 4 and 5.
Pupils in Years 6, 7 and 8 may bring a mobile phone to school if they require one for travelling but only under the following strict conditions:
i) that the School undertakes no responsibility whatsoever for their damage, theft or loss
ii) that they are switched off and handed in at the beginning of the School day and collected as the pupil leaves for home
iii) if a child is feeling unwell, they must not use their mobile phone or 1:1 device to contact parents to ask to be collected. A pupil must go to the Medical Centre who, if necessary, will telephone parents.
MEDICAL MATTERS
We ask that children are kept at home if they are unwell. In the case of sickness or diarrhoea, we ask that a child is kept away from School for 48 hours from the last bout, in line with current NHS guidelines.
Prescribed medicines can only be administered at school if:
• An Administration of Medicine Consent Form is signed by the parent and handed in to the School’s Medical Centre (based at the Prep School), St. Nicholas’ House, King Edward Road, ME1 1UB
• The medicine is provided in the original bottles or containers, with the prescription label indicating the child’s name and dosage
For asthma inhalers and epi-pens:
• An Administration of Medicine Consent Form must be completed (as mentioned above)
• Pre-Preparatory pupils are given a small medi-bag to contain their inhaler or epi-pen. This is kept on a hook in the classroom, carried by an adult or clipped to their school rucksack.
• Nursery and Reception pupils will have their medication made available at all times, and this will be looked after by staff
• A spare inhaler or epi-pen will be required for the classroom
• Please check expiry dates regularly
For glasses:
• If children wear glasses, lenses should be shatterproof.
CURRICULUM
We provide a varied and stimulating curriculum in preparation for future success at GCSE and A-Level.
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 performances take place 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.
In the first three years of the Preparatory School (Years 4, 5 and 6) all pupils study Art, Computing, Drama, English, French, General Science, Geography, History, Mathematics, Music, Physical Education/Games, PSHEE and Religious Studies.
In Year 5 Design and Technology is introduced.
In Year 6 pupils start studying Classics.
In Year 7, pupils learn French and Spanish, with some pupils also taking Latin. Science is delivered as separate disciplines across Biology, Chemistry and Physics and Latin is followed by the top stream.
Prep (Homework)
Pupils are expected to take responsibility for their prep. its organisation, completion and the meeting of any deadlines required. Prep. is set on Google Classroom.
The Deputy (Academic) publishes the prep. timetable for the year in September.
In Years 4 to 6, preps are generally expected to be handed in the next day. If this is not the case, this will be communicated via the Google Classroom.
In Years 7 and 8, pupils may be set a later deadline for preps. This is to help them to learn to manage their workload and take responsibility for meeting deadlines.
Cathedral Choristers only have one prep per evening on singing days.
Occasionally, it is not possible for prep. to be set for an evening when pupils have a lesson in the subject on that day. In this case, pupils should be particularly careful to ensure that prep. is completed by the appropriate deadline.
There is a Prep. Club from 16:15 to 17:15 after school every day, allowing pupils to complete prep. under staff supervision.
Prep Lengths:
Year 4 - 1 x 30 minutes plus 15 minutes daily reading (three days per week)
Year 5 - 1 x 30 minutes plus 15 minutes daily reading (four days per week)
Year 6 - 2 x 30 minutes plus 15 minutes daily reading (four days per week)
Year 7 - 1 x 45 minutes plus 15 minutes daily reading (five days per week)
Year 8 - 2 x 30 minutes plus 15 minutes daily reading (five days per week)
Assessment & Reporting Progress
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.
CO-CURRICULAR
In addition to offering a broad academic curriculum, King’s has a fantastic breadth of co-curricular opportunities designed to appeal to everyone.
MUSIC
Our musical offering is wide and versatile, and pupils can join a wide range of ensembles including choirs, orchestras, wind and brass groups. Alongside the daily music making, we run an impressive programme of regular musical events, including workshops with visiting professional musicians. Many pupils also choose to come to King’s to have the opportunity to join the prestigious choir of Rochester Cathedral as a Chorister from Year 4 to 8.
Pupils enjoy a wealth of amazing instrumental opportunities with the various Prep. School ensembles, and many gain confidence playing at our regular formal and informal concerts, with some even going on to perform solos in the Cathedral. Thanks to a large team of subject specialist and peripatetic music teachers, we are able to teach a wide range of instruments: all orchestral instruments plus drumkit, guitar (acoustic and electric), piano and voice.
DRAMA ART & DESIGN
Pupils gain valuable communication skills and build their confidence through Drama. Drama classes and school drama productions give our pupils numerous opportunities to develop valuable performance skills and build confidence in public speaking. All productions, whether whole school or class run, invariably require planning and teamwork, and to experience this is incredibly important.
The dramatic and performing arts curriculum is run in tandem with the co-curricular programme, creating a seamless experience for those looking to perform on the larger school stage. LAMDA and Public Speaking coaching and examinations are offered to all pupils, and practical workshops are available from professional theatre companies such as Polka Theatre.
The creativity of young minds is extraordinary, and it is a privilege to nurture the artistic potential of each and every pupil. Pupils have a strong visual sense, and they love to explore and discover new things.
We teach our pupils history of art and design, and they learn about the different techniques to help them build an indepth understanding of the breadth of creative and design options. Our project-based approach enables many pupils to achieve a level of artistic skill beyond their age. We take art and design teaching beyond the National Curriculum, and this lays the foundation for future success at GCSE and A-Level.
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!
Selection for Fixtures
The expectation is that all pupils, if selected to represent the School, will be available from Monday to Friday and some Saturday mornings.
Team-sheets, timings and directions for all fixtures are published in the School Calendar and on the sports website at www.kings-rochestersports.co.uk. There is an expectation that team players should attend after-school practices as required.
The main sports for boys in the Michaelmas and Lent terms are Rugby and Hockey. The main sport for girls in the Michaelmas term is Hockey and in the Lent term it is Netball.
In the Midsummer term, the boys and girls are taught Cricket together and boys and girls play in the same Cricket teams. Athletics also features in the Midsummer term.
If a pupil is unable to participate in sports on any day, a communication must be written to explain the reason and sent to their Form Tutor or to the Heads of Sport.
Captaincy
Captains are normally selected at the beginning of the season but may, on occasions, be changed around to give others a chance to lead a team.
The Captain is not always the best player. He or she is normally considered to be the most responsible member of a team and is therefore given the opportunity to use this quality to serve not only their teammates and the School, but also the game itself. The rule is to “lead by example”.
AFTER SCHOOL CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES
Our diverse co-curricular options are impressive and naturally complement the immersive educational programme.
Pupils benefit from many opportunities to take part in a variety of activities. Our children are encouraged to broaden and extend their skills of communication, teamwork and leadership.
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.
The majority of clubs and activities are at no extra cost and take place on-site during lunchtime and after school. Swimming takes place in our on-site indoor heated swimming pool.
Each term’s timetable of clubs is communicated out to parents and posted on the Parent Portal. To sign up:
• Log onto My School Portal
• Select the main navigation button on the Home page
• Scroll to the bottom of the page and select “Let us know…” tab
• Select Clubs and Activities Sign-Up
• Select clubs to be added to your basket and check out
• Bookings can then be accessed for reference via the ‘My Bookings’ tab
TRIPS & VISITS
The Preparatory School believes that learning through experience is central to any pupil’s time at school. We offer a wide range of trips throughout the year, during term time and the holidays.
We aim to make these trips as affordable as possible and they are designed to dovetail with the pupils’ curriculum. There are also more expensive trips, such as the Year 6 trip to Chateau de Warsy and the Year 7 and 8 sports trip to Barbados. These are not compulsory and we give plenty of notice to parents for budgeting purposes.
School transport is provided where possible, usually our School minibuses, or sometimes travel is by train or larger coaches. If your child is involved in such an event, King’s School Rochester reserves the right to convey him or her on such transport as appropriate unless we have prior notification from the parent, guardian or carer that they do not wish us to do so.
If no such confirmation has been received, the School assumes consent has been given.
Similarly, some trips out of School for our younger pupils may be to venues which are local enough to be reached on foot or to parts of the School site which necessitate crossing the public areas between school buildings.
In these instances, children will be accompanied by staff and the School reserves the right to take your child on such outings outside the boundaries of King’s School Rochester unless we have prior notification from the parent, guardian or carer that they do not wish us to do so. If no such confirmation has been received, the School assumes consent has been given.
CATHEDRAL SCHOOL
King’s School Rochester is a Christian School. We have established links with Rochester Cathedral and services are held regularly in the Cathedral for children of all ages. The School Chaplain leads our acts of worship and visiting Clergy are invited to speak on a regular basis.
All children are expected to take part in the regular religious activities of the School and to understand that its daily life is guided by the principles of Christianity – above all, consideration and care for others.
However, although we are a school of Christian foundation, children are also taught about all other major world faiths through their Religious Studies lessons and staff and pupils from a variety of religions are fully integrated and welcomed at King’s.
The Friends of King’s School Rochester
The Friends of King’s School Rochester is predominantly a group of existing parents who have children in the Preparatory and Senior School. This group supports the School by organising social and fundraising activities to benefit the children.
The Friends hold an annual Fireworks BBQ party in November and the Sixth-Form Leavers’ Ball at the end of the Midsummer Term.
Any parents interested in helping The Friends group are most welcome to contact them via email at friendsrochester@gmail.com
Fees
Our school fees are charged in advance and reviewed annually.
For more information please go to our website www.kings-rochester.co.uk/admissions/fees
Should you have any questions, please contact the Bursary team on 01634 888608 or email bursary@kings-rochester.co.uk.
Complaints Procedure
We hope that all concerns can be resolved quickly and easily through good communication between home and school.
However, if a parent wishes to make a complaint or raise any concerns regarding their child, we ask you to raise this initially with the Form teacher. Should you wish to escalate matters please email one of the Deputy Heads or Head of the Preparatory School.
VISITORS
Senior School and visitors reception Satis House, Boley Hill, Rochester, ME1 1TE
Nursery & Pre-Preparatory School visitors reception Chadlington House, Lockington Grove, Rochester, ME1 1RH Preparatory School visitors reception St Nicholas’ House, King Edward Road, Rochester, ME1 1UB
We are unable to provide onsite parking due to the School’s central and historic location. Please park in one of the nearby car parks within easy walking distance of the School.
