A C A D E M I C R E S U LT S A N D L E AV E R S ’ D E S T I N AT I O N S
Congratulations from THE PRINCIPAL “I am incredibly proud of each and every one of our Class of 2023. They have achieved great things in their time at King’s, both academically and personally. As a non-selective school, personal growth and individual success are paramount and I’m delighted that the majority of pupils have secured their first choice destinations. This year-group has dealt with the pressure of sitting their first set of public exams admirably, and I am confident that our pupils leave not only with a fantastic set of grades but also a skill set of practical competencies that will prepare them for life beyond school. I am also grateful to our hardworking and inspiring team of teachers, who have always gone above and beyond to get the best out of our pupils. They have encouraged our pupils to think and not just regurgitate; rather to develop the problem-solving, creative, and resilient skills that they will need to succeed in the future. I am thrilled to see our pupils progressing to such a wide range of universities and courses. This is testament to their hard work and dedication, and it also reflects the diversity of talent that we nurture at King’s. I know that they will all continue to achieve great things in the years to come, and I wish them all the best in their future endeavours.” Ben Charles, Principal
41%
of King’s ‘grammar stream’ excelled with A*/A
75% all grades A-C
25% all grades A*/A
A level RESULTS King’s pupils secure first choice university places Excitement filled the air as King’s School Rochester pupils opened their A Level results, many of which opened doors to top universities. The Class of 2023 achieved excellent results, with almost a quarter of all grades achieved at A*/A and over three quarters of grades being at A*-C, an improvement on 2019. King’s ‘grammar stream’ pupils also excelled with 41% of grades awarded being A*/A. Considering the return to tougher pre-pandemic gradings nationwide and the fact that these are the first set of public exams taken by the Class of 2023, we are immensely proud to see that once again our King’s leavers head off to study an impressive breadth of subjects at some of the top universities in the country. From Mathematics at Imperial College London, Sports Management and Art at Loughborough, Animaton at the University of Edinburgh, and a number of Law students heading to Lancaster, East Anglia and Durham.
Aidon, Head Boy and one of our first fully funded Chadlington Scholars, heads off to study Law at Durham University having achieved an impressive A*AAB. “King’s has prepared me not only academically but socially, it’s helped me as a whole individual. King’s really encourages every pupil to get stuck into everything, even when it’s outside their comfort zone – no one judges you, it’s not about who’s the best, it’s just important to try new things. One of the many highlights during my time at King’s was the unique opportunity to have lunch with a former Prime Minister along with Lord Chadlington, my benefactor. The King’s experience has set me up for life.”
A stellar set of results (A*A*BB) has secured Tom’s place to read Pure Mathematics with a placement year at Loughborough. Tom’s early attainment of an A* in Maths demonstrates his exceptional aptitude. “I’m feeling fantastic now my results are in and looking forward to the next step, pushing beyond my comfort zone, leaving home and experiencing the world. King’s has been instrumental; the myriad of extracurricular activities push you beyond your limits”. As he bids farewell to King’s, Tom offers sage advice to newcomers: “Seize every opportunity; it will give you more skills than you realise at the time.”
Alexander, a versatile Art and Drama scholar, embraces a new challenge in pursuing Sports Management with a placement year at Loughborough with an ambition to manage football teams. As Deputy Head Boy, Alexander’s influence extended far beyond academics. He fully engaged in all that King’s offers, from shining in musical shows and drama performances to actively participating in each of the first team major sports. Alexander’s advice to newcomers is simple: “Get stuck in, join in as much as you can, you won’t regret it.”
Gypsy, a King’s Sports Scholar and national athlete representing her country for the Hammer Throw, is bound for the University of Kent to study English Literature. Her lifelong goal is to become a teacher and she is thrilled that she is one step closer to realising this ambition. Reflecting on her long-standing King’s journey, she shared, “I’ve been here since age 3, and while I’ll miss King’s, I’m excited to meet new people.” Dyslexia hasn’t hindered her passion for English and Gypsy credits her transformative journey to inspiring teachers such as Miss Nicholls “who made me believe I could do anything”. Achieving in Hammer Throw, she found immense pride and support at King’s. As she leaves, Gypsy treasures the close-knit community she feels is unique to King’s.
Toni secures his spot at his first choice Lancaster University to study Law. He appreciates King’s role in shaping his journey, particularly through all his music and sports opportunities. Toni is a ‘lifer’, having started at King’s at the age of 3 and has enjoyed making many friends for life here. Passionate about music, Toni found his stride in the choir and orchestra and will be pursuing music with both Lancaster Cathedral and Lancaster Minster as a choral scholar. Toni has been a member of the National Youth Training Choir for four years, with this year being his last and he was also a chorister with Rochester Cathedral for 5 years. Toni will miss the orchestras greatly as this was a huge part of his life at King’s. His advice for newcomers to King’s is “try to do as much as you can, there are so many activities to choose from.”
Mei Mae is off to study Modern Languages with International Relations at Liverpool and is particularly looking forward to her placement year abroad in China. As a ‘lifer’ who has been at King’s since nursery, there have been many highlights but the Prom was an unforgettable memory. “I will miss the King’s community as everyone here is so friendly, but I am ready for fresh experiences.”
Oliver leaves for a deferred place at Durham, reading Theology and taking up the organ scholarship at St. Chad’s College. In his gap year, Oliver has a place at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire to study organ for one day per week. He will combine this with the Gap Year position at Hilden Oaks School and the organ scholarship at St. Mary’s West Malling. Oliver has held the King’s Scholarship and a Music Scholarship, whilst simultaneously holding the Chesterfield Organ Scholarship at King’s and the Rochester Cathedral Organ Scholarship. Massive congratulations to Oliver on his excellent A Level results (A*AB) and for his many and varied successes over the years, including gaining his grade 8 in flute, piano and organ in July.
Ife has secured his first choice university to study Finance at Dundee. Reflecting on his time at King’s, he noted, “the teachers are so encouraging, in particular Mr Mountford and Miss Hebden have been incredible mentors in drama and music. They’ve transformed me into the performer I am now.” With recent highlights including playing Laser Wolf in ‘Fiddler on the Roof’ and earning a standing ovation for his Elton John solo in House Music. Other accomplishments include consecutive school council victories, pioneering e-sports, and ascending to deputy head of Crick. The emotion was palpable at Speech Day. “Leaving King’s brought tears, but every step of the King’s journey has been enjoyable,” he said. “These last few years have really helped me come into my own.” While the farewell is poignant, Ife’s sentiment is strong: “Sad to leave, yet profoundly grateful for choosing this school.”
Evie joined King’s in the Sixth Form from a grammar school. “I’m super pleased with being given the opportunity to study Business Economics at the University of Liverpool this coming September! Having studied Economics at A Level and achieving an A grade, I feel prepared for a new indepth academic challenge. I’m slightly nervous about making new friends, but coming to King’s after GCSEs at a different school I know that it is going to be okay. I can’t wait to go up there, but I also can’t wait to come back and watch the hockey and rugby. Even if I’m hundreds of miles away, I’ll still be bleeding blue.”
Rebecca, Head Girl, is set to embark on her new chapter pursuing Law at the University of East Anglia. Reflecting on her time at the school, she shared, “King’s has given me both academic support and the confidence to embrace university life. Fond memories include carol services, sports days, and special events like speech day and prom. While bidding farewell is bittersweet after a lifelong journey since age three, I’m optimistic about the future and the strong connections forged here.” Rebecca expressed gratitude to her supportive staff, singling out her form tutor and housemistress.
Joe secures his first choice place at Birmingham University for Computer Science with ABB & A for EPQ. He acknowledges King’s role in fostering strong friendships and supportive teachers. Amid the joyful recollections, he fondly recalls amusing moments, including the legendary ‘Ife.’ While farewells bring a mix of emotions, Joe believes it’s the right juncture. His advice for newcomers is clear, with all the opportunities that King’s affords: “Give it your all, give it your best, do it all!”
GCSE RESULTS 2023 Brings Best Ever GCSE Exam Results For King’s Pupils Records have been broken this year at King’s with its highest GCSE exam results, as 95% of all grades achieved were 9-4 (equivalent to A*-C). These results mark a substantial leap in performance compared to 2019 – the benchmark being quoted by the Government and in the media. Over a third of all grades were awarded the highest grades 8/9 (A*), with over half of grades at 7 (A) or above – 30% higher than the national average. Our ‘grammar stream’* achieved an impressive 62% of grades 8 and 9, with five pupils getting straight A*s across the board. These impressive accomplishments come hot on the heels of celebrating a splendid set of A Level results, where notably, over 40% of ‘grammar stream’ pupils achieved the coveted A*/A grades, and over three quarters of all A Level grades ranged from A* to C. We are elated to see the vast majority of our pupils securing places at their chosen universities.
62% of King’s ‘grammar stream’ excelled with 8-9 (A*/A)
95% all grades 9-4 (A*-C)
“Quite rightly, we pride ourselves on bringing out the best in each pupil and I am delighted that they have shown real endeavour and aspiration to achieve the results they deserve with the excellent support of their teachers. I am immensely proud of all that this cohort has accomplished both academically and through their broader contributions to the vibrant King’s community in areas such as sport, music, drama and outdoor pursuits. Today’s results are fantastic news for a talented and diverse cohort of pupils and I eagerly look forward to welcoming this exceptional year group back to the Sixth Form for the next stage of their life at King’s.” Ben Charles, Principal
Bianca secures 10 A*s, becoming a King’s Scholar and is certainly on the right path to study medicine. Despite joining in Year 10, she’s made the most of her time at King’s getting involved in countless activities, highlights including school trips, the netball tour and the fun Colour Run. “Everyone has been so lovely – it’s just been such a great experience.”
Ella, an all-rounder with artistic flair, acquires a dazzling 10 A*s. Carrying on a legacy at King’s as both her parents are alumni. Ella’s highlights include her involvement in the drama department’s tech society. She found joy in learning to row and cherishes the friendships formed at King’s. While considering a future in journalism, her path is bright with possibilities.
Seb secures impeccable 9s across the board, embodying the excellence of a King’s Scholar. From sports to class camaraderie, and engaging in a range of activities, from competitions to academic challenges, Seb has cherished every moment. With a love for rugby and its team spirit, Seb said “we’ve been getting excited about pre-season for weeks – we’re a small squad but everyone really cares”. “My teachers have been great, especially my form tutor, even Mr Charles (Principal) and Mr Smith (Senior Deputy Head) are really approachable”. Eager to delve into his favourite subjects in the Sixth Form – Maths, Further Maths, Physics, Computing, or Chemistry, Seb ponders diverse career paths, including engineering, computer science, finance, or medicine, keeping his options wide open.
Achieving 9s in all his modern languages – French, Italian and Spanish – is a testament to his exceptional linguistic abilities. Despite joining during lockdown, he thrived in King’s vibrant learning environment, particularly in languages where he found teachers to be incredibly friendly and supportive. Excited about Sixth Form, Massimo looks forward to delving deeper into languages at A Level and relishing the newfound freedom of Sixth Form life. He’s enjoyed taking part in CCF (the Combined Cadet Force) and whilst not having been involved in the music at King’s as yet, he’s contemplating joining the choir this year to further enrich his King’s experience.
52% all grades 7 (A)
33% all grades 8/9 (A*- A)
Nick’s excellent grades earned him an academic scholarship into Sixth Form. No surprise his highlights at King’s include opening his results today. Beyond the classroom, Nick is a keen cricketer but loves all school sports. He also enjoys the many after school clubs, particularly chess. A true blue King’s pupil, having started in Reception, he is looking forward to the next stage of his life at King’s in Sixth Form. Nick has a bright future ahead with a career in finance on his radar, potentially via a degree apprenticeship.
Delighted with her 9 in drama, Melissa is destined for the stage and beyond. She has loved performing in shows and musicals at King’s. “After-school rehearsals are a great way to relax at the end of the school day. They also give you a chance to make friends across other year groups”. A true all-rounder, Melissa has earned King’s awards in music, drama and hockey. Yet it’s the close community that she cherishes the most. “What I love about King’s is that everyone has such close bonds – not only with friends, but also with the teachers as they are always there to help you.” Taking on A Level Drama and Theatre, Melissa’s passion for the stage is undeniable. Her sights are set on a musical theatre degree, and we eagerly await her journey to stardom.
Having only been at the school for just over a year, Ben and Harry are grateful for the significant improvement they have seen in their grades. “As weekly boarders, having structured Prep with tutors’ support has been really helpful”. They’ve embraced the King’s experience wholeheartedly, making lots of new friends and enjoying plenty of fun activities. Sharing a love for sports, hockey has been a highlight for them both. As well as a shared passion for DT, both are looking forward to larger design and technology projects at A Level. Ben and Harry are geared up for Sixth Form life.
Congratulations to Fran on her fabulous results who’s time in boarding helped her studies. “I boarded at King’s throughout my mocks and throughout the GCSEs period and I enjoyed it immensely. Despite initially being anxious about staying away from home for an extended period of time the boarding house quickly became a second home to me and I became part of the boarding family. Being in the school environment helped me with revising for my GCSEs, it allowed me to have a focused mindset which was reinforced by the structure of the boarding house. The boarding staff are always on hand to help with revision as well as support during stressful times. I can’t thank the boarding house enough for all their help, I am genuinely so grateful for them all and I will always keep the friends I made during my boarding period.”
Beyond KING’S Pupils leave King’s having fulfilled their academic potential and experienced a brilliant life-changing education. Our pupils are our greatest ambassadors. Their quiet confidence and self-belief gives them the courage to engage with the world and pursue their dreams, whatever they may be. Pupils also leave as kind, compassionate and caring individuals, ready to make their mark. Sixth Formers often secure places at top Russell Group or Oxbridge universities, whilst others undertake apprenticeships, or join music conservatoires. Whatever their destination, we are immensely proud of each individual’s journey and progress during their time at our School. It is this progress and sense of personal achievement and happiness that we focus on and celebrate. When I left King’s, it felt a little as if university was expected of me, or that it was my only option, but I had always worked during my school holidays and knew I wanted to go Into employment within the Construction industry. I preferred working over studying. I managed to secure myself a degree apprenticeship and employment within the area of Civil Engineering. This meant I would go to university (in London) for one day a week and work the others. I have learnt and been able to apply hands-on skills and experience within the working environment as well as developing myself further through study. One of the main benefits of my path has been financial. I have always earned money, have no university costs, and no student loan. It takes a little longer to achieve a degree this way, but I will have a guaranteed job at the end of my course that I have already begun to establish myself in. I realise many people may hesitate with this route as a choice. They may feel they will miss out on university culture and the lifestyle. However, in my experience, I have made many friends on my course and just as many through my employment. Financially, I am able to make the most of a busy social life. I would absolutely recommend a degree apprenticeship to anyone considering it. It has given me the best of both worlds! - Joe Byrne After completing my A levels at King’s, my first steps in the corporate world began with a trainee position, at a creative agency called Inspired Thinking Group. Fast forward three years of working there I received multiple promotions eventually achieving the role of Senior Account Manager where I led projects across brands such as Pret, Currys, and KFC. I played a crucial role in shaping their marketing strategies, coming up with fresh ideas leading the creative team on their key campaigns throughout the year both online and in physical stores. Despite the success in my role, I felt a pull towards a more specialised domain – social media. Eager to explore this avenue, I transitioned to Pubity Group, the largest social publisher in the world, in the new business team. Located in the Aldgate London, within the LAD Bible Group office, my current role allows me to collaborate with brands like Gymshark, Mikado, Bumble, Subway USA and Elf Cosmetics. Working in the fast-paced world of social media has proven to be exhilarating and fulfilling. Each day brings new challenges, events, and opportunity to meet new people, making the experience both dynamic and really enjoyable. As someone who navigated the transition from school to the professional world, here are a few pieces of advice I would offer to someone wanting to do the same. Be open to learning and meeting new people; networking not only opens doors to opportunities but also helps you build relationships with people who will be able to help and mentor you! Don’t be afraid to explore your interests; it is okay if you’re unsure about your ideal career path right away. Embrace the adventure, and do not forget to enjoy the learning process along the way. - Brianna Simons
Destinations of LEAVERS 2020 - 2023 We are immensely proud that, once again, our King’s leavers head off to study an impressive breadth of subjects, with the majority being accepted to their first-choice destinations. Leavers have studied Law at Durham, Sports Management at Loughborough and Theatre at LAMDA. Other pupils utilised an apprenticeship scheme, such as Equity Research at Morgan Stanley or Finance at Kingswood Group.
Bath Spa University
Business and Management (Marketing) Drama
BIMM
Popular Music Performance and Song Writing
Bournemouth University Sociology and Criminology
Leeds Beckett University
Sports Business Management
Liverpool John Moores Sports Business
Loughborough University
Commercial Management and Quantity Surveying Foundation Art and Design Industrial Design and Technology International Business with placement year Mathematics with placement year Sports Management with placement year Economics History
Newcastle University
Architecture and Urban Planning Cell and Molecular Biology Economics
Oxford Brookes University
Cardiff University
Accounting and Finance Economics, Politics and International Relations Foundation in Business Management Foundation in Law Mechanical Engineering Business and Management
Central Saint Martins
Economics and Politics with a year in industry Mathematics with Finance and Accounting
Brighton and Sussex Medical School Medicine
Brunel University
Sports, Health and Exercise Sciences Philosophy History
Foundation in Art
City, University of London
Foundation in Business Management
De Montford University Business and Marketing Medical Science
Dundee University Finance
Durham University
Accounting and Finance Biosciences Geography Law Theology and Religion Accounting and Finance Imperial College London Mathematics
Queen Mary University of London Reading University
Law Politics and International Relations Finance and Investment Banking Royal Academy of Music Trombone and Voice
Royal Agricultural University
Agriculture and Farm Managementt Applied Equine Science and Business
Royal Holloway
Computer Science English and Drama
Swansea University
Politics and Social Policy Computer Science Mechanical Engineering
The Engineering & Design Institute
Istituto Marangoni
Global Design Engineering
Keele University
Biochemistry and Genetics
LAMDA
German with Management Studies
Lancaster University
Law with English Law
Fashion Design
Economics and Finance Theatre
Computer Science Law
The University of Sheffield University College London University of Aberdeen University of Amsterdam Fashion
University of Bath
Pharmacy Chemistry Economics Politics and Internal Relations Social Policy
University of Portsmouth International Business
University of Reading
Foundation Year in Computer Science Philosophy
Business and Management Construction Management and Surveying Politics and Economics Quantity Surveying Business Economics History
University of Chichester
University of Southampton
University of Birmingham
Counselling Psychology
University of Derby
Motorsport Engineering
University of East Anglia
Economics Geography with International Development History and Politics Law Psychology with placement year Philosophy and History
University of Edinburgh
Computer Science Economics and Politics Marketing Law
University of St Andrews Psychology
University of Surrey
Business Management with Foundation Sports and Exercise Science
University of Sussex
Animation
Engineering with foundation year Law with American Studies
University of Essex
University of the West of England
University of Exeter
University of Warwick
Law Foundation
Applied Psychology Exercise and Sport Sciences History
University of Gloucestershire
Law
Cyber Security Health and Medical Sciences Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) Philosophy
Quantity Surveying Urban Planning
University of Westminster
University of Greenwich
University of Winchester
Primary Education Studies
University of Kent
Architecture English Literature and Creative Writing Psychology History
University of Leeds Art Foundation Classical Music Computer Science Philosophy
University of Leicester Mechanical Engineering
University of Liverpool
Business Economics with a year in industry Chinese Studies and International Relations History and Politics
English Literature
Ancient, Classical and Medieval Studies Cyber Crime Social Work
University of York
Computer Science Economics, Econometrics and Finance English and History
Wrexham University
Animal Behaviour, Welfare and Conservation Science
Conservatoires Leeds Conservatoire Film Music
Royal Welsh Conservatoire Voice
University of Manchester
Apprenticeships
University of Northampton
Apprenticeship in Chartered Surveying
Actuarial Science and Mathematics Fine Art and Drawing Sports Rehabilitation and Coaching
University of Nottingham
American Studies and History
University of Plymouth Marine Biology
AB Group
Kingswood Group
Apprenticeship in Finance
Laing O’Rourke
Degree Apprenticeship in Quantity Surveying
Morgan Stanley
Apprenticeship in Equity Research in the Super Sector
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