Admissions Booklet

ADMISSIONS INFORMATION

September 2025 Entry

Welcome to The King’s School, Gloucester

Thank you for your interest in King’s. We recognise that choosing the right school for your child is an important decision and we are here to provide you with all the help and information you need to ensure that you are as well-informed as possible.

Our online Admissions Portal allows you to make an enquiry, book a place on an open event, complete forms, upload documents, make payments and do everything else that is necessary to facilitate your child’s admission to King’s. At any point you can see the status of your application, together with the next steps of your admissions journey. We aim to make the transition to King’s a smooth, stress-free and transparent process, resulting in one less thing to worry about.

This booklet will give you an understanding of the steps of our application process, and further information, including fees, bus routes and uniform lists can all be found on our website www.thekingsschool.co.uk

If you have any questions at any stage, please do not hesitate to contact our Admissions Team on 01452 337337 or by email admissions@thekingsschool.co.uk . We look forward to welcoming you to King’s in the near future.

Our Ethos

The King’s School, Gloucester is a unique, independent day school with a remarkable history and an ambitious and inspiring vision. King’s is a distinctive community, we are:

An historic Cathedral school and charity

Founded by King Henry VIII in 1541, the School is one of the country’s oldest charities. We have close links with Gloucester Cathedral, including the education of all choristers. We welcome pupils of all faiths and of none.

An independent, co-educational day school

We believe boys and girls learn best together, as they do outside the school gates. We value families: our pupils enjoy time at home as well as at school. We cherish our status as a truly independent school.

A medium-sized school with small class sizes

We offer an impressive range of academic subjects and opportunities, yet our distinctively small classes allow teachers to focus on each individual pupil.

A pupil-centred, inspirational school

Our outstanding pastoral care, challenging and rewarding academic curriculum and superb range of co-curricular activities inspire each pupil to discover their flicker of talent, and to develop that talent to its full potential.

Forward-thinking in our educational philosophy

Our pupils develop the skills and understanding to thrive and be happy in a rapidly changing world.

Delivering an education of character

Pupils develop the balanced set of values and characteristics required for future individual success and to play a full part in the wider community.

This Ethos is delivered to our pupils through our ‘Values and Expectations’ in the Senior School and through our ‘King’s SMART’ approach in the Junior School.

The Admissions Process

King’s has a long history of academic success that stretches back to our foundation by King Henry VIII in 1541. Our pupils are drawn from a broad ability range and our selection process is designed to identify pupils who can benefit from our stimulating and diverse curriculum. All pupils at King’s are expected to make a positive contribution towards the life of the School.

Initial Enquiry

We encourage all families to visit King’s, to meet the Headmaster, or Head of Junior School and have a tour of the School. This will give you an excellent insight into the unique ethos and environment of the School.

To start this process, please visit our Admissions Portal on the School website. From the Portal you can request further information and a prospectus, book a place at a future open event and fill in the Registration Form to apply for a place at King’s. As you progress through the admissions journey you will receive regular updates on the status of your application and be notified of the next steps.

Registration

When you are ready to apply for a place, please complete the online Registration Form and make a payment of the £100 non-refundable Registration Fee. Please note, a Registration Fee is not required if your child has a sibling currently at King’s. You will then be asked to upload your child’s latest school report.

For Senior School applicants, at the point of Registration it is possible to apply for a Scholarship and a Bursary. Co-curricular Scholarships are offered for Art, Drama, Music, Performing Arts and Sports at 11+, 13+ and 16+ and for Design Technology at 13+ and 16+. Bursaries are meanstested and more information can be found on page 29. We strongly urge you to apply early to enable us to process your application and for you to receive the sample papers and assessment guidance in good time.

Registration is required prior to the next step but does not guarantee entry. If your child is currently at King’s Junior School, a Registration Form and Fee is not required for the move to our Senior School.

Typical Admissions Journey

Initial Enquiry

Request information, a prospectus or book a tour via our Admissions Portal on the website.

Apply for a place

Complete the Registration Form and make payment of the Registration Fee via our Admissions Portal.

Entrance Assessment

Candidates (in Year 2 upwards) will undertake English, Maths and Aptitude assessments to ensure that they can access our curriculum. They will also have an informal interview in the Senior School.

Visit

Come and see us in action either at an Open Morning or on a bespoke tour. Meet the Headmaster, or Head of Junior School and discover more about our inspirational School.

Taster Day

Candidates are invited into School for a Taster Day. A report will be requested from their current school.

Taster Days

Prospective pupils will be invited for a Taster Day. The day allows your son/daughter to experience a typical school day at King’s whilst facilitating a smooth transition. For Year 7 entry we organise dedicated Taster Days in the Trinity (Summer) Term for children in Year 5 and the Michaelmas (Autumn) Term for children in Year 6. In Junior School, Taster Days are organised to suit the parent and child.

Offer of a Place and Acceptance

Your child will be offered a place, subject to the outcome of the Entrance Assessment and, if applicable, will be offered a Scholarship subject to the outcome of the Scholarship Assessment.

An offer of a place will be sent together with the Terms and Conditions and an Acceptance Form. The Acceptance Form will need to be completed, signed and returned to us, together with a deposit of £500, by the required deadline to secure your child’s place at King’s.

Joining Information

The Joining Information Forms will be available for completion on our Admissions Portal once we have received formal acceptance. Induction events are held in June for pupils entering the Senior School. This allows families to hear from key members of staff, meet Tutors and to ask questions. Moving Up Morning will take place in July for pupils joining our Junior School.

Late Applications

In some circumstances, and if places are available, we may consider late applications. Please do contact us if you have missed the deadline but would like your child to be considered for a place at the School in September 2025.

Place Offer

Successful candidates will receive a formal offer of a place.

Place Acceptance

To accept our offer of a place, families are asked to complete the Acceptance Form supported by the deposit.

Scholarship Assessment (if applicable)

Candidates will meet with the relevant Head of Department to undertake their Scholarship Assessment. References from teachers and coaches will be required.

Joining Information

Further information about joining King’s, and forms for completion, will be available on your Admissions portal.

Induction

Senior School candidates joining us in September will be invited to an induction event where they will meet their Head of Year, Tutor and other pupils in their year group. New Junior School pupils take part in our Move Up Day at the end of the Summer Term.

King’s Junior School

LIFE IN LITTLE KING’S

Pre-School and Reception

Where the love of learning begins

For children aged three to five we build on the foundations of their first three years at home and offer a curriculum which is stimulating, structured and balanced. Our caring and experienced staff ensure that your child has the very best possible start and the result is happy, confident children who are independent, ready and eager to learn when they move to our Junior School.

Learning in Little King’s

We follow the Foundation Stage curriculum leading to the Early Learning Goals at the end of the Reception year, however, what we offer is so much more. The children benefit from both the expert and specialist teachers as well as the older pupils as role models when they all come together in the termly Academy Mornings.

We have an exciting and engaging curriculum, which includes:

Outdoor learning in Forest School, which includes time spent in our own Secret Garden as well as trips to Crickley Hill Country Park and the Forest of Dean.

PE lessons with our dedicated Sports teacher, culminating in Sports Day.

Music and Dance lessons, with our dedicated Music and Dance teachers, and performances in the Nativity play, Easter Bonnet Parade and Summer Play.

Art and Design time in which children explore colours, shapes and textures using a variety of media and communicate their ideas through their creations.

Literacy lessons, including letters, sounds, comprehension and writing.

Mathematical lessons, including numbers and numerical patterns.

Understanding of the wider world, past and present, people, culture and communities, as well as every child’s favourite; the Natural World. You will often see our children keeping a close eye on the butterfly chrysalis.

Excellent home school links with parents are encouraged and parents are able to comment on their children’s learning journey and add to it themselves.

LIFE IN JUNIOR SCHOOL Building foundations to last a lifetime

Children aged from five to eleven are taught in bright and welcoming classrooms, based in the heart of our School. We develop their love of learning by offering stimulating and engaging lessons and a wide range of co-curricular activities which are genuinely enriching and enable our pupils to pursue their own, personal interests.

We celebrate individual talent and excellence and our pupils have a very strong sense of community and soon become supportive team members. This blend of personal achievement and team spirit is one of the defining qualities of the Junior School.

Learning in Junior School

High academic standards are achieved through the engaging lessons delivered by our skilled teachers. The small class sizes enable teachers to identify and stretch the talented pupils whilst giving extra support to those that need it. The Academic King’s Skills Curriculum provides structured learning over and above the British National Curriculum

Dedicated Sports, Drama, Music and Dance teachers extend the curriculum further through their expert knowledge.

Every pupil has their own Keystones Challenges, in which they are encouraged to keep a record of their own academic, pastoral and co-curricular achievements.

By the time they leave Junior School, our pupils are well-equipped to thrive in the Senior School.

Structure of the Day

8.20am School opens 8.25am Registration

8.35am - 9.05am Assembly (Period 1)

9.05am - 9.35am Period 2

9.35am - 10.05am Period 3

10.05am - 10.35am Period 4

10.35am - 10.55am Break

10.55am - 11.35am Period 5 11.35am - 12.05pm Period 6 12.05pm - 1.00pm Lunch 1.00pm - 1.15pm Reading period 1.15pm - 1.45pm Period 7 1.45pm - 2.15pm Period 8 1.15pm - 1.45pm Period 9

2.45pm - 3.15pm Period 10

3.15pm - 3.30pm Tutor time

3.30pm Formal lessons finish

3.30pm - 4.10pm Activities / Prep

Clubs

and Activities

Junior School clubs and activities take place both at lunchtime and after school. Examples include:

Animal Art

Art Club

Book Club

Chess

Classics Club

Creative Writing

Cross Stitch

Debating

Eco Club

Food Art

Football

Forest School

Gymnastics

ICT Club

Languages Club

Makaton

Mindfulness

Recorders

Rugby Tykes

Top Trumps

Yoga

ENTRY PROCESS

Year Group Age

Pre-School 3 – 4 years

Reception 4 – 5 years

Lower Transition (Year 1) 5 – 6 years

Upper Transition (Year 2) 6 – 7 years

Lower Prep (Year 3) 7 – 8 years

Upper Prep (Year 4) 8 – 9 years

Lower Shell (Year 5) 9 – 10 years

Upper Shell (Year 6) 10 – 11 years

Entry into Little King’s

Children are invited for one or more Taster Sessions to ensure that they are ready to participate and progress in our Pre-School environment.

We are delighted to be able to accept 15 hours of Government vouchers.

8.30am - 12.30pm 8.30am - 3.15pm 3.15pm - 6.00pm

Pre-School places are available for morning sessions or full day sessions and all pupils are required to attend eight sessions per week. A session is a half day; afternoons only are not permissible.

Early Birds club is available from 7.45am and aftercare is available from 3.15pm to 5.30pm.

Please see our Fees page on the website for more details.

Entry into Junior School

Entrance Assessments are held throughout the year.

Entrance into Year 1 and Year 2

Children are invited for a Taster Day with their appropriate year group prior to joining to ensure that they can settle and cope with a full school day and the broad curriculum on offer. A reference will be requested from the child’s current school. Pupils may be invited to return for a subsequent Taster Day.

Entrance into Years 3 to 6

Children are invited to spend two Taster Days with their appropriate year group. A reference will be requested from their current school and short pieces of work in English and Mathematics will be undertaken alongside tests in Mathematics, English, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning to ensure that all pupils will be able to access our curriculum. Children will also have an informal interview.

Following successful Taster Days, references, and assessments (where relevant), children will be offered a place to join our Junior School. Children may join the Junior School throughout the academic year, subject to availability.

Senior School and Sixth Form

LIFE IN SENIOR SCHOOL

Delivering an education of character

Learning in Senior School

Academic study at King’s offers every pupil a broad curriculum, engaging lessons and personalised tuition from enthusiastic, dedicated staff.

We offer a wide curriculum – which includes foreign languages, the Classics and separately taught sciences – so that pupils can select subjects that appeal to them.

Lessons and activities are designed to engage and encourage independent thinking. Small class sizes give our subject specialists plenty of opportunity to ensure that all pupils can participate actively in class and build their confidence.

Our expectations are high. We track each pupil’s progress by personal observation and by regular assessment. We also measure our overall academic performance through the Value Added Formula devised at Durham University. This shows that, on average, King’s pupils achieve higher grades than pupils of comparable age and ability at other schools.

When pupils complete their academic education at King’s, they not only have excellent subject knowledge to ease their path into higher education or employment, they also have the tools, techniques and self-motivation that will prove invaluable wherever life takes them.

Senior School Day

8.20am School opens 8.35am – 8.40am Registration 8.50am – 9.05am Chapel in the Cathedral (Mon, Wed, Fri) / Tutor time (Tue, Thurs) 9.10am – 10.00am Period 1 10.00am – 10.55am Period 2 10.55am – 11.15am Break 11.20am – 12.10pm Period 3 12.10pm – 1.05pm Period 4 1.05pm – 2.15pm Lunch 2.20pm – 3.15pm Period 5 3.15pm – 4.10pm Period 6 4.25pm School buses leave

School Trips

Clubs and Activities

The majority of Senior School clubs and activities take place at lunchtime with a mix of Year Groups attending.

Examples include:

Art

Badminton

Band Club

British Sign Language

Chamber Choir

Chess

Coding

Comedy Club

Cookery

Creative Maths

Cricket

Crochet

eSports

Everything Drama!

Geeky Games

Greek

For pupils in Year 7 there is a residential trip to Dorset in June every year. Pupils learn skills such as fencing, dragon boat racing and tackling a giant climbing wall, amongst a wide range of other activities.

Year 8 pupils take a trip to Normandy, France for a week visiting châteaux, markets and walk across to the famous Mont Saint-Michel.

At the end of Year 9, pupils head to the Brecon Beacons National Park for their Call of the Wild residential trip where pupils take part in rock climbing, caving, archery and gorge walking.

We have a rich tradition of challenging and highly rewarding overseas trips to a diverse range of locations worldwide. The experience gained by the pupils is immense and provides them with the opportunity of a lifetime. Recent destinations include Italy, Paris, the Azores, Madrid, Costa Rica and New York.

As well as the major residential trips there are plenty of academic day trips during the year such as visits to the Pitt Rivers Museum, The Tower of London, Birmingham Symphony Hall, GCSE Science Live, Stratford Upon Avon and the London Science Museum as well as regular theatre trips.

History Club

Juggling

King’s Harmonists

KS3 Choir

LawSoc

Lego Robot

Maker Club

MedSoc

MFL Films

Music Theory

Netball

Running

Sci-Fi Club

Socratic Café

Vinyl Club

LIFE IN KING’S SIXTH

FORM Preparing pupils for future success in a rapidly changing world

In the Sixth Form we give our pupils opportunities like no other; extending their experience beyond typical expectations.

With a choice of 26 A Levels, BTEC Sport, plus additional qualifications, each pupil receives a bespoke education plan. The small teaching groups provide them with the support needed to succeed, resulting in consistently strong academic results.

While we take academic achievement seriously, we also consider educating the whole person to be vitally important. We aim to equip our pupils with the values, attitudes, skills and knowledge that bring success in future employment, study and life. We do this in the Sixth Form by teaching study skills, emphasising self-discipline and by building team and co-operative skills.

Our unique Future Skills programme is one of the cornerstones of the Sixth Form curriculum. It is designed to give our pupils essential skills for life and topics include

managing finance, cookery, living away from home, first aid and vehicle maintenance.

There are also many leadership opportunities available: pupils may apply to become a Head of School, Senior Prefect, House Captain or Peer Mentor to name a few. We expect our Sixth Formers to serve as role models to our younger pupils in terms of their behaviour, values and attitude.

The Music, Drama, Art and Sport co-curricular options, together with overseas trips, lunchtime clubs and many academic enrichment opportunities, give all of our pupils a balanced education in our unique and inspiring Sixth Form Centre.

Ultimately, we encourage our pupils to think differently, use their initiative and creativity to flourish and thrive, creating a solid foundation for their move into the world with confidence.

ACADEMIC RESULTS

GCSE Results

20%

In 2023 King’s pupils received an outstanding set of GCSE results with a fifth of all results at Grade 9 – four times the national average – and 51% at Grade 9, 8 or 7; this is despite the return to 2019 grading levels and three years of disruption with the pandemic. This year’s results were some of School’s best ever – proving that hard work and determination really does pay off.

King’s has a reputation for producing strong all-rounders who work hard outside, as well as inside, the classroom. Amongst the pupils celebrating great results were several former boy and girl Cathedral Choristers, Welsh Exiles and Gloucester Rugby Academy players, a Cheltenham Town Football scholar, several talented equestrian riders, a national water polo player, Severn Stars netball Nova Academy players and a county golfer.

Further details on all the School’s GCSE results can be found here: https://www.thekingsschool.co.uk/senior-school-11-18-/senior-school-academic/results

A Level Results

The 2023 A Level results defied national expectations and continued the upward trend of academic achievement at King’s.

25%

51% 59% at Grade 9 at A*/A at D* D* D* or D D D at BTEC Sport at Grades 9, 8 or 7 at A*, A or B

100%

Over 25% of the results were at A*/A and over 59% of all grades were A*-B, with a 100% pass rate. In BTEC Sport, all pupils achieved Distinction or starred Distinction in every part of the course, which equates to all A/A* grades at A Level. The pupils worked hard to achieve such positive results which are particularly impressive as these were their first-ever certificated exams.

Next steps for the pupils included reading Exercise and Sports Science at Exeter, Geography at Loughborough, Music at Southampton and Biological Sciences at Warwick University. One pupil gained a highly competitive IBM internship in New York and one pupil had just finished filming a lead role in a TV series in Belgium. Pupils joined the armed forces (Army and Navy), the Police Force, took apprenticeships in Finance and Computer Science and one gained a place at a highly competitive national Dance School.

Further details on all the School’s A level results and destinations of leavers can be found here: https://www.thekingsschool.co.uk/senior-school-11-18-/sixth-form/results

ENTRY PROCESS AND KEY DATES

Year Group Age

First Form (Year 7) 11 – 12 years

Second Form (Year 8)12 – 13 years

Third Form (Year 9)13 – 14 years

Fourth Form (Year 10)14 – 15 years

Fifth Form (Year 11)* 15 – 16 years

Lower Sixth (Year 12)16 – 17 years

Upper Sixth (Year 13)* 17 – 18 years

*No entry available at this stage

Our main points of entry are into Year 7 (11+), Year 9 (13+) and Year 12 (16+). Year 8 and Year 10 entry are subject to availability. Assessments are generally held in the Michaelmas Term or the first half of the Lent Term, prior to the September of the year of entry. Pupils may join the Senior School throughout the academic year, subject to availability.

Approximately 75 pupils join our Year 7 (First Form) each year (with around 30 of those moving up from our Junior School), and another 15 places are available for entry into Year 9 (Third Form), when the year group grows to 90 pupils. Approximately 20 places are available each year for entry into Year 12 (Lower Sixth), for pupils wishing to join King’s.

Year 7–10 Entry

Candidates for entry into all years are required to sit our Entrance Assessments which consist of the following papers: English, Mathematics and online Aptitude Tests (CEM tests).

All candidates will be required to bring a piece of current schoolwork with them to the assessment day and will have an interview. A reference will also be requested from the candidate’s current school and candidates are encouraged to attend a Taster Day. For Year 7 entry, Taster days are offered in the Trinity Term (Summer) of Year 5 and during the Michaelmas Term (Autumn) of Year 6. For other year groups, Taster Days are arranged on an individual basis.

Candidates interested in applying for Year 9 (13+) entry may opt to sit a pre-test during our Year 7 (11+) Entrance Assessments in the November of Year 6. Success in the 11+ pre-test assessments does not guarantee that a place will be automatically offered at 13+; however, it is designed to offer reassurance that a candidate is at or close to the typical standard of a successful applicant to King’s.

Key Dates for Entry into Year 7 (11+)

Key Dates for Entry into Year 9 (13+)

Sixth Form Entry

Candidates for entry into the Sixth Form are required to achieve a minimum of five GCSEs at Grade 9-6, although the vast majority of our pupils who join the Sixth Form achieve grades which are higher than this.

This must include a minimum of Grade 5 in Maths and English, and we would expect candidates to achieve a Grade 7 or above in their chosen A Level subject (where appropriate), to ensure a strong basis for A Level study. Further details on specific subject entry requirements, including our BTEC Sport, can be found in the Sixth Form Subject Choices booklet.

All candidates will have an interview with a member of staff and a reference will be requested from their current school. All candidates are encouraged to have a bespoke Taster Day in the Michaelmas or Lent Term with our current Lower Sixth.

Key Dates for Entry into Year 12 (16+)

SCHOLARSHIPS

Scholarships are offered each year to candidates who are able to demonstrate exceptional talent in their chosen field(s). The aim of these Scholarships is to recognise and reward talent and encourage Scholarship holders’ abilities. We offer Scholarships at 11+ (entry into Year 7), 13+ (entry into Year 9) and 16+ (entry into Year 12).

Scholarship opportunities are also open to current pupils within the School.

Only pupils who pass the Entrance Assessment will be eligible for a Scholarship. The Scholarships that are available at King’s are summarised in the table below.

Choristership

and Technology

Boys and girls in current Years 2, 3 or 4

All Scholarships are achieved in open competition and are awarded on merit. Scholarship holders are expected to enhance the King’s community, becoming role models for their peers and enriching life at the School.

The fee remission and number of Scholarships awarded is dependent on the calibre and number of applicants. Typically, a Scholarship would bring a fee remission of 10-15%. The Headmaster’s decision is always final.

Scholarships are held for the duration of a pupil’s time in School, provided his or her conduct is satisfactory and his or her level of work and commitment is in line with the expectations of a Scholar.

How to apply for a Scholarship

Before applying for a Scholarship, parents are encouraged to discuss the application with an appropriate member of staff at their child’s current school, to help determine the suitability of their child.

To be considered for a Scholarship at King’s, parents must first complete and return the Registration Form and Fee via the Admissions Portal on the School website. The Scholarship Application Forms will then become available on the portal for completion.

After Registration, further information regarding the Scholarship Assessments and details of the next steps will be sent to parents. References from current teachers, coaches or Music and Drama teachers are required for the application process for Art, Design and Technology, Drama, Music, Performing Arts and Sports Scholarships.

Academic Scholarships

Entry at 11+, 13+ and 16+

At King’s we are justly proud of our Academic Scholars and their achievements. Academic Scholarships are awarded to candidates who are excelling academically.

What is expected of an Academic Scholar at King’s?

• Continue to develop academically, maintaining high levels of performance and interest in studies

• Serve as a role model for their peers at the School

• Participate in Academic Enrichment sessions

• Achieve high grades in public and internal examinations

Assessments for 11+ and 13+ Academic Scholarships

All candidates for entry into Year 7 and Year 9 are considered for an Academic Scholarship during our standard Entrance Assessment days (November for 11+, and January for 13+).

Assessments will consist of the following:

• English paper

• Mathematics paper

• Online aptitude test (CEM test)

• Interview – candidates are asked to bring along a recent piece of schoolwork

At 11+ we recommend that candidates should be working at the top of the ability range for their peer group in the Key Stage 2 National Curriculum and at 13+, we recommend that candidates should be working at the top of the ability range for their peer group in the Key Stage 3 National Curriculum.

Assessment for 16+ Academic Scholarships

Assessments for 16+ Academic Scholarships will take place in January when candidates are in Year 11.

Candidates should be predicted to achieve an excellent set of GCSE grades, with a minimum of seven subjects at Grade 9-7 (A*-A).

Candidates will choose one subject in which to demonstrate their academic potential; this must be a subject that they intend to study at A Level. All candidates are asked to submit a piece of academic work, for example, an essay or past examination paper, completed in Year 11 and marked by their current teacher, which demonstrates their ability in the chosen subject. Candidates will then be invited to attend an interview with senior academic staff, where their submitted work and academic interests will form the basis of discussions. Academic Scholarships are conditional upon the required GCSE results being achieved.

Art Scholarships

Entry at 11+, 13+ and 16+

Creativity flourishes at King’s; teachers in our Art Department have expertise in a host of disciplines providing expert tuition in drawing, painting, photography, sculpture, textiles and ceramics.

Candidates must demonstrate an outstanding ability in Art and a passionate interest in the subject.

What is expected of an Art Scholar at King’s?

• Show significant commitment to their artwork and contribute creatively to the School’s artistic life

• Holders of an Art Scholarship at 13+ will be expected to take Art as a GCSE subject

• Holders of an Art Scholarship at 16+ will be expected to take Art as an A Level subject

Assessment for 11+, 13+ and 16+ Art Scholarships

Candidates will be required to submit a portfolio of work from home and school which demonstrates their artistic abilities in a range of disciplines. At 16+ they will then be invited to discuss their portfolio with the Head of Art. For 11+ and 13+ they will complete a short assignment on the day of the Art Assessment.

Choristerships

Entry

for boys and girls in current Years 2, 3 or 4

The King’s School has enjoyed a long history with Gloucester Cathedral and the Abbey that preceded it. For the last nine hundred years, we have been linked with the Choristers of the Cathedral, a relationship that is still strong today, as King’s continues to provide and to educate the Choristers of the Cathedral Choir.

Boys and girls who join the School as a Chorister play a central role in day-to-day life within the Cathedral and feel privileged to sing in a beautiful and historic setting. Choristers can gain in confidence, as well as acquiring a musical knowledge and understanding of which many adults would be proud.

Candidates who are awarded a Choristership receive a 40% reduction in school fees whilst they are a Chorister. When they come to the end of Year 8 they leave the Cathedral Choir and the fee remission comes to an end. They are then able to apply for our 13+ Music Scholarship, and any other Scholarships, and may be eligible for bursaries from the School and outside agencies, to enable them to continue their education at King’s through to the end of our Sixth Form.

What is expected of a Chorister?

• A genuine passion for music

• Chorister duties take priority over other School and social activities

• When a Chorister leaves the Cathedral Choir they are expected to be involved in choral singing within the School

Key Dates for Choristerships

Assessment for a Choristership

Voice trials are held annually in the Lent Term, however prospective candidates may ask to be heard at any time of the year when special arrangements are made between King’s and the Cathedral’s Director of Music for an informal voice trial.

The Cathedral’s Director of Music conducts all voice trials; no special coaching or voice training is required or expected of candidates.

A prospective Chorister is asked to bring along a song that he or she enjoys singing; this can be a hymn or a carol. Tests will also include those to measure the quality of the voice, the accuracy of the ear and the ability to pitch a note. Reading aloud is part of the assessment, as all Choristers must be able to read aloud with reasonable confidence.

Candidates for a Choristership will be required to meet the entry criteria for the Junior School and will be asked to complete two Taster Days before a place is offered.

Design and Technology Scholarships

Entry at 13+ and 16+

The Design and Technology Department is fully equipped with both modern and traditional tools, allowing pupils to gain an all-round experience of design and manufacture.

Design and Technology Scholarship candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in the subject, as well as showing experience of working with a range of media and materials.

What is expected of a Design and Technology Scholar at King’s?

• Show significant commitment to their Design and Technology work and contribute creatively to the department

• Holders of a Design and Technology Scholarship at 13+ will be expected to take Design and Technology as a GCSE subject

• Holders of a Design and Technology Scholarship at 16+ will be expected to take Design and Technology as an A Level subject

Assessment for a 13+ and 16+ Design and Technology Scholarship

Candidates will be required to provide a portfolio of work which demonstrates their design abilities and shows their participation in designing and making. This portfolio should give examples of work carried out outside of school DT projects. Candidates will then be invited to discuss their portfolio with the Head of Design Technology. Candidates will be required to complete an analysis and design activity in advance of the interview.

Drama Scholarships

Entry at 11+, 13+ and 16+

Our Drama programme immerses pupils in a wealth of dramatic experience – from the classics to the best in contemporary theatre and new writing.

Drama Scholarships are offered to foster and enhance the strong tradition of Drama within the whole School. Enjoyment, enthusiasm, and appreciation for Drama are paramount and should be demonstrated during the application process.

What is expected of a Drama Scholar at King’s?

• Involvement in School productions and House Drama events

• Share enthusiasm for Drama within the School community

Assessment for an 11+ and 13+ Drama Scholarship

Candidates will be asked to perform a prepared monologue which will be provided by King’s. This monologue should be memorised. Candidates will also be asked to perform an unseen monologue, which is not memorised. This will be followed by an interview with the Director of Drama. It is expected that candidates will have previously taken part in drama productions.

Assessment for a 16+ Drama Scholarship

Candidates will be asked to perform a prepared monologue. This piece should be at least two minutes in length, memorised and must be from a play. If candidates would like suggestions for a monologue, please contact the Admissions Team.

Candidates will also be asked to perform an unseen monologue, which is not memorised. This will be followed by an interview with the Director of Drama.

It is expected that candidates will have previously taken part in several drama productions and will have an idea of the types of roles they may like to take up in the future.

Music Scholarships

Entry at 11+, 13+ and 16+

King’s has a strong tradition of Music; the School was originally established to educate the Choristers of Gloucester Cathedral. The historic setting of the Cathedral provides us with a wonderful venue for concerts and recitals, its acoustics are second-to-none and our pupils relish the chance to perform in such a beautiful setting.

Scholarship candidates at 11+ should be at least Grade 3, or above, in one or more instruments or voice. 13+ candidates should be at least Grade 5 or above in one or more instruments or voice, and 16+ candidates should have gained at least Grade 6 in one or more instruments or voice.

What is expected of a Music Scholar at King’s?

• Participate fully in the musical life of the School

• Take a leading role in choirs, orchestras, and ensembles

• Attend and perform at concerts held by the School

Assessment for an 11+, 13+ and 16+ Music Scholarship

At the Music audition, candidates will be asked to perform up to two pieces on their main instrument (or voice) and one piece on their second instrument (if applicable). Sight-reading and musicianship tests, appropriate to the candidate’s abilities, will be given and the audition will end with an interview with the Director of Music.

Performing Arts Scholarships

Entry at 11+, 13+ and 16+

Performing Arts Scholarships are open to those who have talents in Dance, Drama and Music. Candidates can choose either two or three of these disciplines to be assessed in and are expected to excel in those chosen areas.

What is expected of a Performing Arts Scholar at King’s?

• Involvement in School productions and/or concerts

• Participate in House events

• Become an excellent ambassador for their chosen disciplines

Assessment for a Performing Arts Scholarship at 11+, 13+ and 16+

Candidates will be assessed in two or three disciplines from Dance, Drama and Music. Details of the assessment criteria in each discipline are listed below.

Drama: Candidates will be asked to perform a prepared monologue which will be provided by King’s (at 11+ and 13+). This monologue should be memorised. Candidates will also perform an unseen monologue, which will not be memorised. This will be followed by an interview with the Director of Drama. It is expected that candidates will have previously taken part in drama productions.

Dance: For the Dance audition, candidates will be asked to prepare a short dance in the genre of their choice. This will be followed by a short interview where the candidate will be asked about their previous dance experience. They may bring in a portfolio to help explain this.

Music: At the Music audition, candidates will be asked to perform up to two pieces on their main instrument (or voice) and one piece on their second instrument (if applicable). Sight-reading and musicianship tests, appropriate to the candidate’s abilities, will be given and the audition will end with an interview with the Director of Music.

Sports Scholarships

Entry at 11+, 13+ and 16+

Sport has a high profile at King’s, and we are proud of our pupils’ achievements.

Candidates should have the potential to reach, or already be playing at, County level. Successful candidates will be expected to contribute to our main School Sports. For boys these are Rugby, Hockey, Cricket and Athletics. For girls these are Hockey, Netball, Cricket and Athletics.

What is expected of a Sports Scholar at King’s?

• Be fully committed to School teams throughout the academic year

• Respond well to guidance, work well in a team and demonstrate good leadership skills, whether by example or captaincy

• Participate in the Gifted and Talented Sports Programme

• Participate in all House Sport events

Assessment for an 11+ and 13+ Sports Scholarship

Candidates will be invited to a Sports assessment morning, which will involve a full programme of activities. They will be assessed in a series of physical activities including agility, hand-eye coordination, fitness, and the ability to adapt to specific sporting situations.

Assessment for a Sports Scholarship at 16+

Candidates for a Sports Scholarship at 16+ will be asked to submit a Sports CV outlining their achievements to date and have an interview with the Director of Sport. Candidates will be invited to attend a relevant training session as appropriate.

BURSARIES

Our bursary programme is only available for entry into the Senior School at 11+, 13+ and 16+.

A bursary is a form of financial assistance which is meanstested, i.e. based on household income. Bursaries are not dependent on academic or co-curricular ability but are awarded to pupils who are likely to gain the most from a King’s education and who will contribute fully to the life of the School. Scholarships may be supplemented by bursary assistance if the financial circumstances of the family necessitate it.

All applicants are required to disclose, in confidence, their financial details on our Bursary Application Form, which is then submitted to an external company (Bursary Administration Limited) before a decision can be reached. All those with parental responsibility are required to provide proof of their income and assets.

The level of support varies according to parental income; however, parents need to be aware that the bursary fund is limited. Parents are required to re-submit a new Bursary

Application Form each year to notify the School of their current financial circumstances.

If you feel that your financial circumstances may make you eligible for bursary assistance, please consult the Bursary Policy on the website, contact the Bursar to discuss this further, or select the relevant box on the Registration Form*. A Bursary Application Form together with a copy of our Bursary Policy will then be sent to you. The School reserves the right to make home visits to verify the information provided.

Please note that, whilst we would like as many as possible of those pupils who meet our entry requirements to take up a place at the School, the bursary fund is limited.

*Please note that candidates must be formally Registered prior to applying for a bursary.

Our renowned pastoral system plays an active part in every aspect of School life. Each pupil has a personal tutor with whom they have daily contact and regular one-to-one meetings to review progress and talk through any difficulties. Tutors are the first point of contact for pupils and work in close partnership with parents.

In the Junior School, our Class Teachers are supported by the Key Stage Leads and our dedicated Pastoral Deputy Head. They work with pupils and families to help children navigate any emotional difficulties at an early stage and take supportive action to resolve them. Our well-being team are always on hand to help out and our King’s SMART approach underpins our ethos of being thoughtful and kind to one another.

In the Senior School, Tutors are supported by the Head of Year who oversees all pupils in their year group, both academically and pastorally. The Heads of Middle and Upper School work with the Tutors and Heads of Year focussing on pupil development, including well-being, academic achievement and co-curricular involvement.

Pastoral Care Learning Support

Our dedicated Learning Skills Department enables those pupils with specific learning difficulties to successfully access our academic curriculum. We welcome pupils with physical disabilities, provided that they are able to access all areas of the School site and our curriculum.

Learning support is available in the Junior and Senior School and lessons are timetabled for pupils with specific learning needs.

We request that parents discuss with us any specific learning needs and previous learning support that their child has received at an early stage in the Admissions process.

Copies of any reports such as a Specialist Teacher Assessment, Educational Psychologist’s Report or any medical reports are required well in advance of the entrance assessments being taken. This will ensure that we are aware of the child’s background, enable us to put any necessary access arrangements in place for the entrance assessment, and allows us to assess our capacity and resources to meet their needs.

Our Head of Learning Skills (Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator) is available to meet with prospective parents and will arrange an informal discussion with the child and parents as necessary.

Transport

The School currently offers eleven dedicated bus routes. All routes are designed to be as accommodating as possible and are reviewed annually, but buses can only stop at pre-booked locations. Only King’s pupils can travel on School buses and they are given a bus pass to show that they are registered for a particular bus and journey time.

Parents are able to purchase termly tickets, have the option of a morning or afternoon ticket, or both. The bus fees will be invoiced termly, in advance.

There is a 50% discount for siblings, which applies to the second and any subsequent siblings, Choristers and for those children who are registered to more than one bus.

Ad-hoc journeys are permissible but need to be agreed with the Transport Co-ordinator in advance.

After School, the departure time for all King’s buses is 4.25pm.

Forthampton, Pendock, Redmarley, Staunton, Ashleworth, Hartpury Maisemore

Newent, Ross, Longhope, Huntley, Churcham, Highnam

Coleford, Lydney, Blakeney, Newnham on Severn, Westbury on Severn, Minsterworth

Upton on Severn, Tewkesbury, Coombe Hill, Norton, Twigworth, Longford

Woodmancote, Bishops Cleeve, Central Cheltenham

Hewlett Road, Charlton Kings, Bath Road, Leckhampton Road, Shurdington, Cheltenham Road

Gretton, Winchcombe, Southam, Prestbury, Tewkesbury Road

Minchinhampton, Amberley, Rodborough, Stroud, Painswick

Chalford, Eastcombe, Brimscombe Cainscross, Edge, Stroud Road

Uley, Dursley, Cam, Cambridge, Frampton, Whitminster, Kingsway, Quedgeley,

Current bus routes, pick up points and costs are listed on our website: www.thekingsschool.co.uk/parent-information/bus-routes

Tetbury, Cirencester, Birdlip, Hucclecote, Abbeymead

Gloucester train station is less than a 10-minute walk and is also an option for pupils travelling to School.

For further information please contact our Transport Co-ordinator on 01452 337337 or by email on transport@thekingsschool.co.uk

GLOUCESTER

School Fees

Current information regarding the fees, payment details and insurances can all be found on our School website: www.thekingsschool.co.uk/ admissions/fees. As an indication, the 2024/25 Fees per term are given below. Please note that our Fees are updated annually around Easter and there are three academic terms per year.

Little King’s (Pre-School)

Pre-School places are available for morning sessions or full day sessions at a charge of £8.80 per hour and we are delighted to accept the 15 hours free Government vouchers. From September 2024 all pupils are required to attend eight sessions per week. A session is a half day; afternoons only are not permissible.

Morning Session: 8.30am - 12.30pm

Full Day: 8.30am - 3.15pm

Junior School, Senior School and Sixth Form

Junior School Reception

Lower Transition (Year 1)

Upper Transition (Year 2)

Lower Preparatory (Year 3)

Upper Preparatory (Year 4)

Lower Shell (Year 5)

Upper Shell (Year 6)

£6,055

School

First Form (Year 7)

Second Form (Year 8)

Third Form (Year 9)

Fourth Form (Year 10)

Fifth Form (Year 11)

Sixth Form

Lower Sixth (Year 12)

Upper Sixth (Year 13)

The fees are inclusive of lunch, teaching materials, learning support expenses but exclusive of textbooks in Senior School, external examination fees, music lessons, excursions and After Care. Full details can be found on our website.

A sibling discount of 5% is offered for the second child from the same family rising to 10%, 15%, 20% and 25% for subsequent siblings, whilst all siblings are current pupils at King’s.

Once your child has been offered a place, a deposit of £500 is required to secure your child’s place. The deposit is refundable, subject to any outstanding payments, against the final invoice issued when a child leaves the School.

Payment of School Fees is due on or before the start of the term invoiced. Monthly direct debit payments may be arranged via an arrangement with School Fee Plan. Please see the School website for further details.

Senior

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the timings of the school day / how long is the school day?

Registration in the Junior School takes place at 8.25am and lessons conclude at 3.30pm. In the Senior School, Registration takes place at 8.35am and the day concludes at 4.10pm. Buses depart at 4.25pm each day.

Do you offer wraparound care provision?

Atlas Camps offer wraparound childcare from ages 3-14 which consists of a wide range of activities both after school and during the school holidays.

In term time, Early Birds starts at 7.45am for Junior School pupils and children can attend Aftercare until 6pm. Further details regarding the costs involved can be found on our website.

In the Senior School, pupils can arrive from 8.00am and the Library is open until 5.45pm after school finishes.

Do you have school on Saturdays?

We are very much a day school and so there are no timetabled lessons on a Saturday. For Senior School pupils who play for a School sports team, Saturday matches can be home or away, and in the morning or afternoon. Team members are expected to attend.

Is lunch included in the school fees?

Yes, we do not charge extra for lunch and offer a nutritionally balanced and tasty selection of food on a three week rotation menu for all pupils (available to view on our website). All pupils and staff eat together in our dining hall.

Do you have a Welfare Department?

We have two qualified Nurses on site during School hours to assist with first aid and are also on hand to offer a quiet space for pupils. Our Well-being Mentor provides 1:1 sessions for pupils who require a little extra support and we also have a group of Sixth Form pupils who are trained to act as Peer Mentors for our younger pupils who would prefer to talk to someone closer to their age.

The Welfare Department is located in the heart of the School, easily accessible to our pupils.

What is your mobile phone policy in the Senior School?

We understand that pupils may wish to have a mobile phone

in the event of needing to contact a parent/guardian when travelling to and from School. On arrival at School, mobile phones are switched off, handed in to the Form Tutor and locked away for the day. They are banned from use during School hours and returned to pupils in the afternoon for their journey home.

How do Houses work?

In the Senior School there are three Houses, Laud, Serlo and Wheeler. In the Junior School we have Potter, Simpkin and Tailor House.

Each pupil (and teacher) is assigned to one of these Houses when they join the School. Each year the Houses raise money for their nominated charity and compete in many different events for the House Cup. In Senior School these events include Swimming Gala, House Drama, House Music, and House Debating. In Junior School they include House Music, Athletics, and more

Once a fortnight, during Tutor Time, the Senior School and Sixth Form pupils gather as a House Family. Each Family works towards challenges together and earns points for their House. This strengthens the House spirit and provides the opportunity for pupils to get to know others from different year groups.

When do the majority of clubs and activities take place?

Clubs and activities in the Senior School mainly take place at lunchtime. Lunch lasts 1 hour and 15 minutes allowing plenty of time for pupils to take part in various activities throughout the week. In the Junior School, we also have clubs and activities taking place at lunchtime but also after school from 3.30pm - 4.05pm.

Do you have a parent association group and an alumni network?

The King’s School Parents’ Association (KSPA) is a group made up of volunteer parents and representatives of the School who support the School through fundraising events. New members are always welcome, and we would encourage any parent to get involved.

Club 1541 is the home of former pupils, parents and staff. All former pupils leaving the School, receive full membership to Club 1541 which includes invitations to Alumni exclusive events.

Frequently Asked Questions - Senior School

How should I prepare my child for the Entrance Assessments? Do I have access to sample papers?

Once you have Registered your child via our Admissions Portal, sample papers for 11+ and 13+ entry will be available on the portal with a supporting mark scheme. Sample papers will become available on the portal in June prior to the Entrance Assessment day.

Can you support exam access arrangements for Entrance Assessments?

Yes. We are able to support access arrangements for the Entrance Assessments. Please let us know the requirements at the point of Registration and supply all supporting documentation.

What if my child cannot attend the Entrance Assessment days due to illness?

If your child is unable to take the Assessments on the scheduled date due to illness, we will be able to arrange another date.

Can I apply for both a Scholarship and a Bursary?

Yes, you can indicate your interest to apply for both at the time of registering your child for 11+, 13+ and 16+ entry.

Can I apply for more than one Scholarship?

Yes, this is possible. We would advise selecting your child’s strongest field(s) of talent and interest. For those who excel in more than one scholarship area it is possible to be awarded a scholarship in two disciplines (e.g. Academic and Music). Please show an initial indication of interest on our online Registration Form.

If my child is unsuccessful in their Scholarship assessment, will there be another opportunity for them to apply?

Yes, it is possible to reapply for a Scholarship award at 13+ and 16+ as a current pupil at King’s.

What is the difference between a Scholarship and a Bursary?

Scholarship: Scholarships are awarded following an assessment of a pupil’s current and potential talent, in conjunction with a reference from their teacher.

Bursary: A Bursary is a reduction in fees based on an assessment of the current and potential ability of a pupil and the financial circumstances of the family. A range of objective criteria are considered, including the income and capital resources of the family. A Bursary may be awarded in addition to a Scholarship.

Whilst we’ve answered the most frequently asked questions above, we know that there may be other questions you would like answers to, so please do not hesitate to contact our Admissions Team, either by email: admissions@thekingsschool.co.uk or by telephone: 01452 337 337.