SENIOR SCHOOL & SIXTH FORM
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 1,400 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 our best and 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 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.
THE FIRST DAY
Many pupils will have attended our Preparatory School, a Taster Day or Information Evening before starting at King’s, so some of the School’s routines below may seem familiar.
Where do I go?
In the Senior School most pupils congregate in Main School Yard at the start of the day, before heading to registration. On the first day of a new school year, our Housemasters/ Housemistresses will be on hand in Main School Yard to welcome new pupils and answer any questions they might have. All new pupils will then make their way to School Hall at 8.25am to meet their House Tutors.
What do I wear?
All new pupils should wear the official King’s uniform as outlined in the “Uniform” pages of this booklet. Uniform should be purchased in advance from the School’s online uniform supplier, Monkhouse Schoolwear Specialists. (www. monkhouse.com). Please help us (and your child!) by clearly labelling each item with their first name and surname.
What should I bring?
Pupils should bring:
• Stationery (Black or Blue Pen, Pencils, Ruler, Rubber, Sharpener, Compass, Scientific Calculator);
• Their digital device;
• A packed lunch unless they have opted for School Lunch or they intend to purchase something from Bob Doublesour on-site cafe.
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.
Pupils in the Sixth Form are allowed to go down to the highstreet at break and lunchtime to purchase food and drink.
Pupils should not bring excessive amounts of money or items of major value into school.
What happens at the end of the School Day?
The Senior School day ends at 4.15pm. Parents collecting their children from the Senior School usually do so in the Precinct but please note that cars are not allowed to park in Main School Yard.
If you park in the Precinct, please ensure you do not block the gates of Main School Yard as minibus access is required at all times, and please be mindful of local residents, including not parking in front of the garages opposite Main School Yard as these are privately owned.
THE SCHOOL DAY
The School day begins with Registration in Tutor Rooms at 8.25am and ends at 4.15pm.
Our School Day
8.25am
8.50am - 10.50am
10.50am - 11.15am
11.15am - 1.15pm
1.15pm - 2.15pm
2.15pm - 4.15pm
4.15pm
4.30pm
End of School
Clubs and After School Activities available with provision to work in the library until 5.30pm
Between 8.35am and 8.50am there will often be a wholeschool gathering such as Chapel (in the Cathedral) Assembly (in School Hall) or Congo (Hymn Practice). Pupils should bring their Hymn Books to Congo and Chapel.
On Monday, we begin our week with a School Service in the Cathedral from 8.50am until 9.50am. Pupils register with their House Tutors and are then brought down to the Cathedral by their Tutor where they should enter quietly and be silent when the organ starts to play prior to the service.
Any pupil arriving late on a Monday should make their way to the North Door of the Cathedral and report to the member of staff on duty, signing the late book if necessary. School bags must not be taken to the Cathedral or left in Main School Yard or Davies Court - they should be left in Tutor Rooms or in the Bag Shed.
Breaktimes and Lunchtimes
Breaktime takes place from 10.50am until 11.15am and lunchtime is from 1.15pm until 2.15pm.
At breaktime, pupils may purchase food from our Bob Doubles Cafe which can be eaten in St. Margaret’s Garden, Davies Court or Main School Yard.
At lunchtime, pupils have the option of having a freshlycooked, two-course lunch with a salad option at School House Dining Hall. School lunches are varied and appetising, with a choice of a hot meat dish or vegetarian main course. Special dietary needs can be catered for by our experienced catering team.
If you would like your child to have School Lunches, these should be ordered in advance for the Term. Please contact the Bursary to arrange this. Pupils should not bring their bags to School House - they should leave them in the Bag Shed, Davies Court or Main School Yard before heading over for lunch.
Pupils may also purchase food from Bobs and this can be eaten in St. Margaret’s Garden, Davies Court or Main School Yard.
On the occasions when pupils are playing matches away from school or are on a school trip, a packed lunch is provided for those who would otherwise have taken School Lunch.
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.
PASTORAL CARE
King’s is proud of its friendly, open atmosphere. Our House system plays a crucial role in our Pastoral Care provision and pupils are allocated to one of four HousesCrick, Parker, Storrs and Whiston.
These Houses provide the structure for the general pastoral oversight of pupils. Each House has a Housemaster or Housemistress who will monitor the general well-being, academic progress and extra-curricular involvement of the pupils in their House. Each Tutor Group then has a House Tutor who the pupils see every morning and who is the first port of call for both pupils and parent/guardians.
Pupils faced with problems or who have any concerns are encouraged to speak to a person who they trust or with whom they feel comfortable speaking. A pupil’s House Tutor will always be there to help, but pupils, and/or their parent/guardians, may of course approach any member of staff with a particular concern or issue. All Staff want our pupils to be happy and will do their best to ensure that pupils flourish at King’s.
There are also a number of people whose role at King’s specifically involves supporting pupils in some way:
• House Tutor;
• Housemaster/Housemistress;
• Father Padfield - School Chaplain;
• Mrs Bolton - School Counsellor;
• Miss Costelloe - Head of Upper School;
• Mrs Miles - Head of Sixth Form;
• Miss Steel - Deputy Head, Academic;
• Mr Smith - Senior Deputy Head;
• Father Peers - Our Independent Listener - 07724 030620;
• Email concerns@kings-rochester.co.uk;
• Contact Childline on 0800 1111.
Wellbeing Centre
The Wellbeing Centre acts as a base for the support we offer pupils outside of the classroom. Staffed by our Wellbeing Coordinator, Mrs Bolton, the centre provides counselling for individuals and small groups of pupils as well as sessions that support pupils with a range of different issues.
Sickness & Absence
If a pupil is absent through illness or an emergency, a parent/ guardian must inform the School via My School Portal. If a pupil is absent and the School has not been informed of the reason, the Attendance Office will contact the pupil’s parent/guardian.
To inform us of a pupil’s absence:
• Log onto My School Portal;
• Via the Main Menu button in the top right hand corner, select “Let Us Know” tab;
• Select “Submit last minute absence note”;
• Complete details and submit.
Pupils feeling unwell during the day should ask permission to go up to the Medical Centre. The School Nurse will then decide if a pupil should be sent home and will contact parents if necessary.
For any planned absences, advance permission must be obtained from the School using the form on My School Portal (within the “Let us know…” tab). Permission will only be granted for exceptional circumstances; routine matters such as dental checks and driving lessons should be arranged out of school time.
The School does not authorise holidays during Term Time.
Signing Out
If a pupil needs to leave school during the School day, they should sign out in the Exeat Book that is held by Reception in Satis House. Upper Sixth Formers with PR at the end of the day must always sign out if they choose to go home to study.
Off-Games Procedure
In order to request permission to be excused from Games, a pupil should bring a note from their parent/guardian or their parent/guardian should email their Games teacher in advance of the lesson. The pupil should report to the teacher in charge of their Games option at the start of the session in order to find out what they are doing during the games session, be it coaching, umpiring or helping.
ATTENDANCE
Punctuality is an important part of self-discipline and is important both in terms of arriving at school and being on time for lessons. All pupils are required to arrive at school in time for registration. All pupils should register with their House Tutor at 8.25am. If a pupil arrives after 8.50am they should sign in at Satis House before heading to their lesson. Pupils must ensure that they allow adequate time for their journey to school. Sixth Formers with permission to drive themselves to school must also take into account time taken to find a parking space. Lateness due to “traffic” or “parking difficulty” is unacceptable, and persistent lateness will result in a sanction.
UNIFORM
The School is frequently congratulated on the smart appearance and polite manners of its pupils. We are particularly proud of the King’s uniform and pupils are expected to wear it with pride. It is important therefore that pupils should be smartly dressed at all times.
Uniform items may be purchased from the online shop of our uniform partner, Monkhouse Schoolwear Specialists (www. monkhouse.com).
School uniform must be worn for classroom lessons and when travelling to and from school. Pupils may be allowed to remove jackets during a lesson but these should be replaced neatly before leaving the classroom.
Uniform items marked* may only be purchased from our uniform partner, Monkhouse Schoolwear Specialists (www.monkhouse.com).
Pupils in Remove, Lower Fifth & Upper Fifth should wear:
• Pinstripe school suit jacket;*
• Pinstripe school suit trousers or school skirt, to be worn no shorter than one inch above the knee;*
• White stiff collared shirt, to be tucked in at all times. Pupils may choose between wearing short or long sleeves;
• Grey school jumper;*
• School tie - representative ties may be worn with permission from the Deputies;*
• Black leather flat shoes, to be clean and polished at all times; patent shoes are not allowed;
• Nail polish or fake nails are not permitted;
• A pair of single plain metal stud earrings may be worn in the lobe of each ear (max. 3mm diameter). Rings, necklaces and bracelets are only permitted for religious reasons but should be removed for Sport and CCF activities.
Members of the Sixth Form are expected to attend school in professional business dress. This includes:
• A plain navy blue or black suit (no pin stripe). Skirts and trousers must not be Lycra or skin-tight. Denim, chino and hipster styles are not permitted. Skirts are to be worn no shorter than one inch above the knee;
• A plain blue, plain white or blue and white pinstripe shirt, which must be stiff collared and tucked in at all times or a plain blue, plain white or blue and white pinstripe blouse with an open collar;
• A black or navy blue V-necked jumper may be worn to match the colour of the suit;
• A school tie should be worn with a shirt. Representative ties may be worn with permission from the Deputies;*
• Shoes should be black, clean and polished at all times. Heels may not be more than 2 inches high. Patent shoes are not allowed;
• Nails must be natural in colour - extensions and acrylic nails are not permitted;
• One pair of earrings, one necklace, one bracelet and one ring are permitted.
For all pupils…
• Black or grey socks should be worn or black or natural colour tights with skirts;
• Coats should be dark blue or black. Coats may have a hood, but no fur, and any logos must be discreet;
• Hair should be kept clean, tidy and out of the eyes. For pupils in Remove, Lower Fifth and Upper Fifth, hair that is below shoulder length should be tied back in a ponytail, bun or plait. Unnatural dyes/tints are not allowed. Hair should be no shorter than a No. 2 and side burns must be no longer than the middle of the ear and well trimmed;
• Faces must be clean shaven or religious customs followed;
• Light concealer to cover blemishes may be worn but eyeshadow, eye-liner, mascara, lipstick and fake eyelashes are not permitted. Fake tan is also not permitted;
• Bags should be plain black or navy.
When permitted by the Senior Deputy Head, pupils may remove their suit jackets and long shirt sleeves may be rolled up to the elbow.
On some more formal occasions, such as Speech Day, Commemoration Day, and the Carol Service, all pupils are required to wear a plain white shirt (tucked in) and no jumper.
Sports Kit
• School polo shirt with crest *
• School shorts with crest or school skort with crest *
• Blue King’s socks for Rugby and Hockey *
• White ankle socks for all other activities
• Suitable footwear depending on activity
• School fleece with crest *
• School tracksuit bottoms with crest *
• Any base layers should be plain black
For Rugby, pupils will need:
• Football/Rugby Boots. All studs must bear the British Standard Safety Kitemark
• King’s reversible Rugby shirt with crest *
• Gum shield (compulsory)
• King’s blue socks with white hoops *
For Hockey, pupils will need:
• Hockey stick
• Shin pads (compulsory)
• Gum shield (compulsory)
• King’s blue socks with white hoops *
For Cricket, players will need:
• White V-necked sweater with trim *
• School baseball cap *
• Cricket box and box-shorts
• Official school off-white shirt with crest *
• Tracksuit bottoms
• White trainers or cricket spikes
Cricket whites are only required if the pupil is selected for a School Fixture.
For Badminton/Tennis, pupils will need their own racket.
For Swimming , pupils will need a plain black swimming cap and plain black swimming costume/Speedos.
DIGITAL LEARNING & DEVICES
Pupils in the Senior School use a school-managed Microsoft Windows 11 Surface 7 Pro (or later) or a Surface Go 2 (or later), which 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 from the School at £120 per term (for a maximum of three terms).
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.
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.
REWARDS & RECOGNITION
As a school, we insist upon the highest standards of behaviour. We want our school to be a place where pupils strive to do the right thing and are rewarded for their excellence and effort.
Rewards
We are keen to reward pupils for their achievement and effort both inside and outside of the classroom.
A member of staff may chose to do so in the following ways:
• Emailing the pupil’s Parent/Guardian
• Sending home a King’s Reward Postcard
• Awarding a King’s Point
King’s Points are our whole-school reward, logged on iSAMS and visible to parents on My School Portal. Pupils receive recognition based on the number of King’s Points they earn for them-self and their House.
Colours, Awards and Commendations
At King’s our pupils constantly remind us of how kind, talented and committed they are. Colours and Awards are one way that we recognise the achievements and commitment of pupils.
A Colour recognises pupils for their performance and ability in their chosen field. The pupil must also display strong commitment, good teamwork and attendance.
An Award recognises a pupil for their service and commitment above and beyond what is normally expected. This includes volunteering and supporting our local community (not including volunteering for DofE). This service is driven by commitment, effort, behaviour, leadership and a desire to support others.
Taking part in lessons, clubs, performances and activities does not necessarily mean a pupil will be nominated for a Colour or Award. Pupils have to work within the descriptors. Staff will gather evidence e.g. registers, note significant contributions above and beyond what is normally expected, hold logs of events etc.
Colours and Awards are recognised at different levels as shown below:
• Junior Colt – awarded to pupils in Remove, Lower and Upper Fifth. Recipients receive a certificate;
• Colt - awarded to pupils in Remove, Lower and Upper Fifth. Recipients receive a pin in the design of their blazer;
• Half - awarded to pupils in the Sixth Form. Recipients receive a pin in the design of their blazer with ‘Half Colour / Half Award’ on the pin;
• Full - awarded to pupils in the Sixth Form. Recipients receive a square or tie in the design of the relevant blazer. Pupils can also purchase a blazer if they wish.
On rare occasions a pupil may receive a colour ahead of their normal age group level. This is only done for Colours to recognise unique and outstanding ability beyond what is normally expected in that age group.
Commendations
Commendations recognise a pupil’s Attitude to Learning, based on their half termly assessments.
To receive a House Tutor’s commendation, at least 50% of the pupil’s Attitude to Learning grades should be “outstanding”, none should be “reluctant or passive”.
To receive a Housemaster’s/Housemistress’ commendation, at least 70% of the pupil’s Attitude to Learning grades should be “outstanding”, none should be “reluctant or passive”.
To receive a Headmaster’s Commendation, at least 80% of the pupil’s Attitude to Learning grades should be “outstanding”, none should be “reluctant or passive” and they should have previously received a Housemaster’s/ Housemistress’ Commendation.
Sanctions
Every institution has its own requirements for things like uniform and timings, which need to be understood and adhered to.
When parents sign the agreement for their child to come to King’s School Rochester, they agree that they and their child will abide by the Pupil Code of Conduct. Most importantly, the purpose of the Pupil Code of Conduct in the Senior School is to ensure that pupils are safe and happy and therefore able to achieve.
There needs to be clear consequences when a pupil’s behaviour fails to meet our expectations or they breach the School’s behaviour policy. Sanctions in such instances could include:
• A Verbal Reprimand;
• A Subject Detention;
• Referral to the Head of Department;
• Referral to the House Tutor or Housemaster/mistress;
• School Detention;
• Referral to the Head of Upper School or Head of Sixth Form;
• Headmaster’s Detention;
• Suspension - Temporary or Permanent.
House Tutors and/or Housemasters/mistresses will maintain good channels of communication with parents/guardians throughout your child’s time at King’s. In particular, House Tutors monitor wellbeing, conduct and academic progress, and, upon recognising patterns of unusual or unacceptable behaviour or effort, House Tutors will initiate discussions with parents and Housemasters/mistresses. Subject teachers may also make direct contact with parents/guardians when necessary, but House Tutors will still be involved in any such discussions.
Heads of Department maintain an overview of the teaching and learning within their department and so may well also become involved in discussions with pupils, parents, House Tutors and/or Housemasters/Mistresses.
Detentions
A Subject Detention can be held at break-time or lunchtime on any day of the week. It may be imposed for poor work, effort or behaviour, and will last between 15 and 30 minutes at the teacher’s discretion. They are supervised by the teacher issuing the detention or a member of the same department. A Subject Detention is a repeatable sanction and is recorded on iSAMs and is visible via My School Portal - an accumulation of subject detentions will be acted upon appropriately by the House Tutor.
A School Detention is regarded as a serious imposition. School Detention takes place between 4.30 and 5.30pm on Wednesday afternoons and pupils should report to Reception in Satis House at the end of school.
A Headmaster’s Detention is issued for more serious offences and can only be issued by the Headmaster or another member of the SMT. Headmaster’s Detentions vary in length and time according to the offence which has led to them. Pupils should be aware that this is a serious sanction, second only to suspension. Headmaster’s Detention usually takes place on a Saturday. If a Headmaster’s Detention is issued for a Saturday, the Headmaster is entitled to direct that the Detention is arranged around games fixtures.
SCHOOL RULES
The rules below are not intended as a complete guide to conduct. Members of the School are naturally expected to act in accordance with the laws of the land, with good sense and courtesy and, by appearance and behaviour, to uphold the reputation of the School.
The rules apply during the whole of term, including journeys to and from School, and whilst on School Trips both during and outside of term time. At all other times members of King’s School Rochester are expected to maintain the same standards of decency and courtesy both in private and in public.
Prefects, when performing duties, are acting as ancillary members of staff and members of the School should display the same co-operation, civility and courtesy to Prefects as they do to their teachers.
External Bounds
During school hours, pupils must remain within the general area of the school premises; this includes Old St Margaret’s, the Paddock, Vines Hall, School House, College, Satis House, Main School Yard, Bob Doubles café and the routes of direct access between these points. The Preparatory School is in bounds only to those having permission to visit it. The castle grounds, King’s Orchard, Love Lane, Backfields, the Esplanade, the rear of Vines Hall and the Terrace are all out of bounds.
The High Street is out of bounds to all pupils except the Sixth Form during morning break and lunchtime. Bars, pubs, betting shops and other gambling premises are out of bounds to all pupils during school hours and at any time pupils are wearing school uniform.
Internal Bounds
Pupils should not be inside a classroom unless a member of staff is present. Pupils should also not be inside a building during break and lunchtime unless specific permission has been given by a member of staff.
The Paddock is out of bounds at all times except for supervised Games, supervised lunchtime activities, and in the evening for boarders with the permission of the member of staff on duty. Pupils must not walk across the Paddock when going to or from the Preparatory School or Chadlington House, but rather use the path around the edge.
School House, beyond the dining hall, is out of bounds during the day. Day pupils visiting School House after school and at the weekends, must first report to a member of staff of the Boarding House.
The Swimming Pool may not be entered except when a member of staff is present.
Roads are to be crossed at specific points: St Margaret’s Street at the pedestrian crossing or between St Margaret’s House and Old St Margaret’s, Vines Lane opposite the Paddock gates and Crow Lane to Vines Hall opposite School House.
Pupils walking on public footpaths must give way to other pedestrians and must treat other members of the public with consideration. There should be no running in the street. Pupils must not congregate on the pavements, in the road or outside School Hall, or in the road of the Precinct, but rather use Main School Yard, Davies Court or Old St Margaret’s for waiting and socialising.
School Campus
It is the responsibility of every pupil to keep the school site tidy and litter must be placed in bins. The Bob Doubles Café is to be used only during morning break and at lunchtime. Sixth Formers do not have the right to queue jump at Bob Doubles Café. Pupils should not eat whilst walking around the siteany food purchased from Bob Doubles should only be eaten in St. Margaret’s Garden, Main School Yard or Davies Court.
Use of Mobile Devices and Smart Watches
Recent research has highlighted the negative impact that increased mobile phone use is having on both young people’s mental health and their learning. Guidance issued by the DfE to schools throughout England further highlighted growing concerns about the prevalence of mobile phones in schools. With this in mind, we have decided that from September 2024, Senior School pupils will not be allowed to use their mobile phones during the school day.
This policy will be based on three principles:
1. “Out of sight, out of mind”
We understand that some pupils need to have their phone with them as they travel to and from school. However during the school day, we expect phones to be kept out of sight.
2. “It’s seen, it’s taken”
We need for there to be clarity and consistency and therefore if a pupil has their phone out during the school day without prior permission, it will be confiscated until the end of the day. Repeated offences will incur further sanctions.
3. “Ask for permission, not forgiveness”
We appreciate that there may be occasions when a pupil has an urgent reason to use their phone. In such cases, pupils should ask the supervising member of staff for permission.
In line with this approach, pupils will also not be allowed to wear smart watches.
Personal Discipline
• The use or possession of fireworks, catapults, penknives and laser pens is forbidden;
• Eating and drinking in the streets, including the Vines and the Paddock, is not permitted;
• In wintry weather, snowballing is only allowed with permission and must not be directed at Prep. or Pre-Prep. pupils, staff or any other adult;
• Ball games are not permitted in Main School Yard;
• Parties should not be arranged, nor attended, during the week as pupils must not be jaded for study or sport. This includes Friday evenings ahead of school commitments on Saturdays;
• If the member of staff teaching a class has not arrived within 10 minutes of the beginning of a lesson, Reception in Satis House should be informed by a member of the class;
• The wearing of headphones in town and around the school site, including whilst walking or running to and from an external sporting venue, is strictly prohibited.
Personal Relationships
The School Rules prohibit public displays of affection. In a close community such as King’s, it is inevitable that close personal relationships will develop and the School considers such relationships to be a part of the normal development of teenagers.
However, all pupils should respect others in the development of personal relationships and should be sensitive to the needs and wishes of other people. It is on this basis that the school prohibits public displays of affection. Pupils may not engage in any activity that may be deemed sexual in the course of the school day (which for boarders means the whole of the day and night), or whilst on any approved school activity, including residential holidays or courses.
The development of personal relationships is covered in the Personal, Social and Health Education programme and the Relationship, Sex and Health Education Programme.
Driving to School
Driving lessons and tests should not be arranged during the school day. Upon passing a driving test, Sixth Formers are permitted to drive themselves to school.
A ‘Permission to Drive to School’ form must be completed and counter-signed by a parent. This form will then be kept in the School Office along with a photocopy of that pupil’s driving licence. Lifts may only be given to other pupils with the prior consent of the parents of any passengers. Sixth Formers may not drive during the school day (other than with the permission of the Head of Sixth Form or the Senior Deputy Head) and must not drive in the Precinct before 5pm.
Parking in the centre of Rochester can be very difficult and Sixth Formers who drive themselves to school have a responsibility to park legally, in line with the terms expressed on the ‘Permission to Drive to School’ form and with consideration for local residents.
Habitual lateness is likely to result in the ‘Permission To Drive To School’ being removed.
Bullying
The School views bullying with extreme seriousness as it damages good personal relationships between members of the School and further damages the emotional development of both the bully and the victim.
Bullying may include physical assault, verbal insults, or general offensive behaviour to fellow pupils. Bullying also includes name-calling, teasing, making unpleasant, sexist or racist personal remarks, excluding or ignoring people as well as more obvious forms such as physical violence.
It must be remembered that whilst some bullying is physical, aggressive and deliberately intimidating, some is quiet, subtle, long-term and no less damaging. Inappropriate use of text-messaging and social networking sites on the internet may also be considered a form of bullying (cyber-bullying).
Bullying is not tolerated and is treated with utmost seriousness through the School’s disciplinary structures. At King’s we encourage pupils to:
• Be kind to each other wherever possible;
• Treat others with respect and consideration in actions and words including when using social media or posting on the internet;
• Look after your own possessions and leave other people’s property alone.
Pupils who know of bullying, or who are the victims of it, should report it to any member of staff to whom they feel able to speak. Pupils should show no hesitation in acting swiftly if there is the slightest suspicion of bullying happening.
Bullying is a major school offence and so is criticising or mistreating pupils who are suspected of reporting bullying; both make pupils liable to very serious sanctions and parents will be informed.
Drugs & Smoking
Any pupil who becomes involved with drug misuse or the abuse of solvents must expect to leave the School. Any pupil who becomes involved in supplying prohibited drugs or solvents can expect to be expelled automatically. These penalties will apply to a pupil who breaks these rules on the school premises, or who is deemed by the Headmaster to have broken these rules outside school time in a way that is prejudicial to his or her own health and safety, the health and safety of others, and the well-being and/or reputation of the School.
Smoking and vaping are forbidden on school premises or during school activities. The school reserves the right to use its powers of search and confiscation to search a pupil should they believe them to have been vaping or have been in possession of a vape.
Alcohol
The consumption of alcohol is strictly forbidden on School property by pupils of any age. The dangers associated with the consumption of alcohol are covered in the PSHEE programme. The only exception to this lies at the discretion of the Headmaster at school events such as the annual Prefects’ Dinner and Leavers’ Ball.
PERSONAL POSSESSIONS
All clothes, games kit, CCF uniform, books and other personal possessions must be clearly marked with the owner’s first name and surname.
Pupils should not bring money or items of major value into school unless absolutely necessary. Where this is necessary, they are advised to leave money or valuables with the School Office at the beginning of the day. Under no circumstances should pupils leave money or other valuables in their clothes when they change for games etc., but rather hand them to a member of staff for safekeeping.
Bags must not be left in places that are easily accessible to members of the general public. In particular, bags must not be left unattended in Main School Yard, outside School Hall, on the benches in Davies Court, on the pavement in the Precinct or in the lobby of School Hall. Bags containing Games kit or CCF uniforms should be deposited in the bag racks in Main School Yard or in the changing rooms at the start of the day. For security, the changing rooms are locked throughout the day, including during games and activities time.
MEDICAL MATTERS
If your child needs to take any medication whilst they are in school, either on an ongoing or short-term basis, please complete an Administration of Medicine Consent Form. These forms are available from Satis House and should be returned there so they can then be passed on to the Medical Centre.
Any medicines should be provided in the original bottle or packaging with the prescription label indicating the child’s name and the dosage.
We also need to know if your child is going to need to carry their own inhaler or epi-pen. Please indicate this on the Medical Form we send out with the Joining Information and make sure you have provided spares for us to keep centrally.
CURRICULUM
Remove Studies (Year 9)
In their first year at the Senior School, pupils follow as broad a curriculum as possible to provide a base for wide option choices in the Lower Fifth.
Fifth Form Studies (Years 10 and 11)
At this level, the emphasis of the curriculum is on retaining breadth. The core subjects are English (Language and Literature), Mathematics, Science and Religious Studies. Top sets usually take Triple Award Science and other pupils take Dual Award Science.
In addition, pupils take further subjects which are selected from the following:
• Art
• Classical Civilisations
• Computing
• Design & Technology (DT)
• Drama
• French
• Geography
• History
• Latin
• Music
• Academic PE
• Spanish
Sixth Form Studies
In the Lower Sixth Form, most pupils study three Advanced level subjects and are advised about suitable combinations. Subjects available include:
• Art & Design
• Biology
• Business
• Chemistry
• Classical Civilisations
• Computer Science
• Design & Technology
• Drama & Theatre
• Economics
• English Literature
• Mathematics
• Further Mathematics
• French
• Geography
• Government & Politics
• History
• Latin
• Music
• Physical Education
• Physics
• Psychology
• Religious Studies
• Sociology
• Spanish
Some pupils also take the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). This enables them to extend their academic interests and to develop some of the skills useful for university. This qualification, worth half an A level, is highly regarded by universities and is aimed primarily at those pupils who are most able to take on additional study alongside their A levels.
Physical Education
Each pupil at King’s School Rochester is timetabled for four lessons of Games each week. These are Tuesdays Periods 1 and 2 and Thursdays Periods 5 and 6 for Upper Fifth, Lower Sixth and Upper Sixth pupils and Tuesdays Periods 5 and 6 and Thursdays Periods 1 and 2 for Remove and Lower Fifth pupils.
In Remove each pupil will try his or her hand at the major sport for that term. These are shown on the table below:
MICHAELMAS LENT
MIDSUMMER
Boys Rugby Football Cricket
Girls Hockey Netball Cricket
For those pupils who do not wish to continue with the major sport, other options are available.
Physical Education is an important part of the School curriculum at King’s School Rochester, and all pupils are required to participate fully in Sport throughout the school. As a school we greatly value all of the benefits of sport and place this highly in the development of our pupils.
Many of our pupils regularly represent the School in one or more of our sports teams. This is supplemented by an increasing number of pupils achieving county, regional and national recognition in a number of different sports.
ASSESSMENTS & REPORTING PROGRESS
Every half-term, academic assessments are made by subject teachers in the form of a report to parents. These assessments include an Attainment Grade for the given period and an Attitude to Learning Grade.
Pupils in the Fifth and Sixth Form are set Challenge Grades in each subject and these are included on reports to indicate whether pupils are working at above or below their level of potential. Challenge Grades are derived from aptitude tests which the pupils take at the start of their GCSE and A level courses. These national tests are carried out by the Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring (CEM) at Durham University which then analyses the results and, from statistical data spanning at least ten years, indicates the most likely grade to be achieved at GCSE or A level from pupils with the same level of aptitude. At King’s, the Challenge Grade is, typically, one grade above the baseline grade indicated by CEM.
For pupils in the Lower Fifth and Upper Fifth, Attainment Grades are awarded for the overall level of achievement attained throughout the half term based on the GCSE 9 to 1 scale. In the Sixth Form, Attainment Grades are awarded based on the A level Scale (A*, A, B, C, D, E, U).
Pupils in the Remove are given an Attainment grade ranging from Beginning, Approaching, Meeting and Exceeding to Excelling.
The same Attitude to Learning Scale is used for all years. These range from Reluctant, Passive, Engaged and Motivated to Outstanding and reflect the overall attitude to learning displayed throughout the half term .
Pupils review their Grade/Effort Assessment information with their Tutors during their tutorial reviews. They are also disseminated to parents and pupils through the Parent Portal. The progress of pupils is discussed regularly and pupils who give cause for concern may be placed on “Work Report”, where subject teachers will comment on attitude and effort at the end of each lesson and parents are requested to inspect and sign the card each evening.
In addition to the end of year examinations and reports, mock examinations are held in the first half of the Lent term for Upper Fifth and Upper Sixth pupils. These examinations are followed by a consultation evening.
Parents’ Evenings
Parents’ Evenings are held for each year group, either in person or online.
An information evening for Remove pupils and their parents is held in the Lent term to help them make their GCSE choices.
An Information Evening for Upper Fifth pupils is held in the Michaelmas term to help pupils make their A level choices.
An evening to explain the application procedure to Higher Education is held for the parents of Lower Sixth pupils in the Lent term.
My School Portal
My School Portal is the central place for information about what’s going on in the Senior School. Here you can see your child’s timetable, a list of their teachers and what assignments or prep they’ve been set on Google Classroom. You’ll also be able to see the rewards and sanctions they receive. Finally, the Portal is how we send out letters and updates. If you’ve been using My School Portal in the Prep. School, you don’t need to do anything - you’ll continue to receive emails when there is a new message on the portal. If you are new to King’s, we will send you separate instructions on how to set up your account.
Prep. (Homework)
The Deputy Head Academic publishes a prep. timetable each year for the Removes, Lower Fifth and Upper Fifth.
In Remove and the Fifth Forms, the prep. for each subject should take about 40 minutes.
Occasionally a subject’s prep. is set on days when the pupils do not have lessons in that subject. In this case, pupils must be diligent to ensure that the prep is completed by the appropriate deadline.
Pupils who repeatedly fail to produce prep may expect to receive a detention. Prep. is set via Google Classroom.
In the Sixth Form there is no formal prep. timetable. Work is often set in advance to allow pupils to develop independent study skills. Pupils are expected to study between two and three hours per weekday night. This should include additional reading around the subjects as well as set work.
Sixth Form Private Reading (PR)
Private Reading normally takes place in the Sixth Form Centre. However, pupils may undertake Private Reading in one of the following locations:
• A level Art pupils may, with the permission of the Head of Art, work in the Art School;
• A level DT pupils may, with the permission of the Head of Design & Technology, work in the Design & Technology Centre;
• A level Computer Science pupils may, with the permission of the Head of Computer Science, work in the ICT Centre.
Sixth Formers must ensure they sign in with the Attendance Officer when they arrive to complete their PR. Pupils should be punctual at the start of PR lessons and not finish early. They should work quietly wherever the location.
Arrangements for Private Reading are overseen by the Head of Sixth Form. Pupils misbehaving in Private Reading are reported to the Head of Sixth Form who may impose restrictions and withdraw privileges marked above.
CO-CURRICULAR
It is our core belief that our pupils learn just as much outside the classroom as they do inside. The academic and physical education aspects of school life are complemented with many other activities.
Timetabled into the school curriculum are PSHEE lessons (Personal, Social, Health & Economic Education), careers sessions and on Friday afternoons every Senior School pupil experiences co-curricular activities to build leadership skills and teamwork.
Friday Afternoon Activities
On Friday afternoons pupils in Remove and Lower Fifth take part in the CCF (Combined Cadet Force), where a range of activities are undertaken. Appropriate clothing is supplied and an array of weekend and after school activities are on offer due to our links with the MOD. Pupils may continue with CCF into the Upper Fifth and Sixth Form.
Pupils in each year group may apply to join the Theatre Production Company. Places are limited and often go to pupils with a theatrical background. However, all pupils are welcome to apply as the group is wide ranging and completes an array of activities to support productions at King’s.
In the Upper Fifth pupils can opt to undertake Enrichment. Enrichment is a range of activities that aim to broaden life experiences of pupils and enhance their CV. These include activities such as cooking, painting, deportment, and poolside rescue.
In the Lower Sixth, pupils have the option to join HANDS, our volunteering programme.
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
The CCF works closely with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme and it is possible for pupils to gain their Bronze, Silver and Gold awards at King’s School Rochester. In addition, five years of CCF training could lead to a BTEC Level 2 in Teamwork and Personal Development in the Community.
Music
Individual instrumental lessons are available for all orchestral instruments as well as for piano, organ and singing. Our ensembles and bands including the Orchestra, Chamber Group, Jazz Band, Wind Group and School Choirs rehearse weekly and perform regularly both in school and at public concerts and recitals outside school.
Clubs and After-School Activities
Clubs and Societies all enhance the academic tradition of the School and each term a varying range are held including Art, DT, CCF Shooting, Astronomy, Mandarin and Film. These activities take place either at lunchtime or after school until approximately 5.30pm.
London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts
King’s is proud to offer LAMDA tuition for pupils wishing to strengthen their communication skills. We provide the opportunity to develop a clear speaking voice, memory skills, positive body language and self-confidence by exploring different uses of spoken English. Building on these skills, the LAMDA tuition prepares pupils for university and beyond. Pupils may choose to specialise in Public Speaking, Acting or Reading for Performance.
Sports Fixtures
Sport plays an important part of the curriculum at King’s and the School encourages pupils to take up the many opportunities to represent the School in inter-school fixtures.
Fixtures take place both midweek and on Saturdays and pupils are expected to fulfil their selection as a normal school commitment.
Team selection is normally announced via the School’s Sports website (www.kings-rochestersports.co.uk) and this will include details of the team and meeting/travel arrangements. Where it is not possible to give more than 24 hours’ notice of a pupil’s selection due to team illness or injury, the member of staff will telephone parents to inform them.
For home fixtures, pupils should:
• Change at the time and venue stated on the team sheet;
• Report to the home venue at the time stated on the team sheet;
• Ensure they have all the kit (mouth guard, studs, etc.) needed;
• At the end of the game, congratulate the opposition, thank the referee/umpire and help clear away any equipment;
• Accompany the opposition to tea after the match.
For away fixtures, pupils should:
• Change at the time and venue stated on the team sheet;
• Embark on the coach/minibus at the time stated on the team sheet;
• If parents attend the match, they can take their children home directly from the venue at the end of the fixture once the member of staff present has been made aware;
• On return to school, ensure onward travel home is arranged - the approximate time of return will be stated on the team sheet;
• If there is any change to the return time, the teacher in charge will endeavour to inform parents.
If a pupil is unable to play on the day of a fixture due to illness or absence from school, parents are requested to email the Director of Sport, Mr Hebden, on mhebden@kings-rochester.co.uk or the teacher in charge of the team as early as possible.
Parents are asked to refer to the School calendar and/or any subsequent notices regarding fixtures and training, before committing their children to other activities or events.
Parents are encouraged to support their children at inter-school fixtures, and directions to all away fixtures can be found on the School’s Sport Website (www.kings-rochestersports.co.uk).
CATHEDRAL SCHOOL
King’s School Rochester is a school with a long Christian tradition dating back to the original religious foundation of 604AD.
As a Cathedral school, we are privileged to have Rochester Cathedral as our Chapel where regular services take place during the week. Services are of a Christian nature and are organised and led by the School Chaplain and by visiting clergy.
Services alternate between Matins, with a preacher, and Holy Communion, through which we celebrate the different stages of the Christian year. All pupils are expected to take part in these religious activities, although it is acknowledged that we come from many different faith positions and none. Children are encouraged to think about life and to consider moral, spiritual and philosophical ideas through the worship, as well as to learn more about Christian tradition and practice.
The Religious Studies curriculum at the school encompasses the various faith traditions, as well as Humanist views, and so enables pupils to reflect on their own beliefs and ideas and to see Cathedral worship in this context.
Regular confirmation services allow for Christian pupils to explore their own faith deeper and many pupils are encouraged to take an active role in services through readings, prayers, stewarding and serving.
As a gathered community, our services act as a focal point for reflection and thought, as well as being expressions of love and commitment to one another. We are an associate school of the Woodard Corporation, and the Bishop of Rochester is our official Visitor.
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
QUERIES & CONCERNS
We know that starting any stage in a child’s educational journey is a significant event in their life. We also know that there will always be things you want to find out more about or that may be concerning you. As they join and then move through the Senior School, your child’s House Tutor will be your first port of call for any queries or concerns. You can also contact your child’s teachers if you have any questions about specific subjects. Staff email addresses can be found on My School Portal. If you are not sure where to direct your query, particularly in the lead up to September, please email seniorschool@kings-rochester.co.uk and our Office Staff will direct your email to the person best-placed to deal with it.
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 888555 or email fees@kings-rochester.co.uk.
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.
