KES Prospectus 2025-26 by King Edward VI School

Prospectus 2025 -2026

A Welcome From the Head

Welcome to King

Edward’s.

I am extremely proud to be Head of this great School and hope to have the opportunity to welcome you to our School and community.

King Edward’s is a leading independent day School in Hampshire, with a long and distinguished history, stretching back more than 470 years. Whilst proud of our outstanding academic provision, we are also a community which places every child at the heart of all that we do, seeking to develop in our young people the skills and character strengths to allow them to thrive in the twenty-first century.

The School has long had a reputation for impressive academic results but, while essential for future success, we seek to develop pupils with a wide range of skills and interests. Our goal is to combine the pursuit of academic excellence with a range of opportunities to develop self-confident and independent young people, who have a strong sense of community and will become responsible and reflective future leaders. High quality teaching, a supportive and caring community, and the space to grow and achieve full potential is what we offer at King Edward’s.

The School boasts outstanding facilities, including a wonderful library, theatre, Art department and Sixth Form Centre; alongside modern, inspiring classrooms. As well as the main site, King Edward’s pupils also enjoy the benefits and opportunities presented by our superb sports facilities at Wellington and the School’s Rural Studies Centre on Dartmoor. We also embrace technology in our teaching, with pupils using tablet devices to enhance their learning within and beyond the classroom.

King Edward VI Preparatory School (KES Prep for short) in Romsey has a friendly, family-feel in a beautiful rural setting and takes pupils into its nursery from age 2. KES Prep pupils achieving at the appropriate level in their studies by the end of Year 5 will be given a guaranteed place at King Edward’s for Year 7, without the risks and anxiety associated with an external examination route. To find out more about our Prep School, please see page 52.

We hope that you will visit us to see for yourselves. Why not visit us on a normal School day and have a personal tour.

Further information about the School may be found on our on our website kes.school and social media feeds, via Instagram, Facebook, X and LinkedIn.

Neal Parker Head

Why choose King Edward’s?

King Edward VI School is a leading coeducational, independent day School located in the heart of Southampton, Hampshire, welcoming pupils aged 11-18. With a current pupil intake of just under 1,000, we are proud of our high-achieving pupils across the curriculum.

of all King Edward’s results at GCSE level were at grade C or above

page 20

44% of grades awarded at A Level were A* and A

Pupils have access to over

A typical class size of 22 of grounds

your route on page 47 are currently using the KES buses every day! pupils Around

Inclusive, high achieving and forward-looking, it’s impressive on all fronts.

- Good Schools Guide, 2023.

King Edward’s are delighted to be a School Partnerships Alliance Member 2023.

Our Rich History

Established 1553

1553 – 1696

Winkle Street

William Capon left money in his will to found a grammar School for poor scholars of Southampton. The King, King Edward VI signed the necessary charter in 1553 and the School opened in 1554 in Winkle Street, an unfashionable part of the town, inside the city wall near God’s House Tower gate.

1696

Bugle Street

In 1696 the School transferred to a larger premises not far away in Bugle Street.

1896 Havelock Road

The next move to the prestigious building at Havelock Road in 1896 resulted in pupil numbers increasing to over 100.

1924-1932

Sir Edward Penley Abraham attended

King Edward’s

Sir Edward Penley Abraham attended King Edward’s before he proceeded to be part of the team whose research was responsible for the development of penicillin. In the 1950s, Sir Edward went on to develop the cephalosporin range of antibiotics and, through the registration of patents, was able to generate a huge income from royalties. Abraham diverted the greater part of his royalty income into two trusts, the E.P. Abraham Research Fund and the E.P.A. Cephalosporin Fund, which he set up to support medical, biological and chemical research and, over the course of his lifetime, made substantial donations to King Edward VI School. This included funding the construction of the new Science Block and the continued provision of money to support pupils studying the sciences.

1938

Hill Lane

In 1938, purpose-built School buildings were constructed at Hill Lane, and the School have occupied ever since.

1978

King Edward’s becomes Independent

An appeal was launched for funds to enable the School to become independent in 1978. The target of the appeal was £300,000 but by the following summer it had reached £700,000. Colin Dobson, the Head Master, was able to express satisfaction that Bursaries for 34 of the School’s one hundred and ﬁ fty new entrants had been provided.

Read more about our rich history at kes.school

1983

King Edward’s welcomes ﬁrst cohort of female pupils into Sixth Form

In 1983, the ﬁ rst girls were welcomed into the Sixth Form at King Edward VI School.

1994

King Edward’s becomes fully co-educational

In 1994 45 girls joined 86 boys as the ﬁ rst intake of girls in the ﬁ rst year.

2004

Wellington Sports Ground

The School acquired Wellington Sports Ground from the University of Southampton.

2012: Stroud Joins the King Edward’s Family

In 2012, King Edward’s made Stroud School, Romsey its offi cial preparatory School.

2024

King Edward VI Preparatory School

We are hugely proud of our links with Stroud, and in the last 12 years have built ever greater bonds of kinship with our preparatory School. From September 2024, King Edward’s is pleased to announce a momentous milestone after twelve years of a highly successful partnership with its Preparatory. Stroud School will become King Edward VI Preparatory School (KES Prep for short).

Header Image - Hill Lane 1938

2012

Our Ethos & Values

We nurture and support our pupils, so that they ﬂourish and exceed their expectations in their learning, interests, relationships and emotional development. Our goal is that they become intellectually curious, resilient, conﬁdent and ready for their next steps.

Flourishing in Achievement

1. Laying down a foundation for wellbeing, so that every pupil will exceed their own expectations both in and outside the classroom.

2. Providing a varied rigorous, balanced and exciting curricular and co-curricular programme to inspire learning and engagement for all.

3. Offering lessons and learning experiences that challenge assumptions, foster creativity and promote independence.

4. Encouraging all pupils and staff to seek to improve and grow in their learning constantly, in the knowledge that this attitude will see them ﬂ ourish academically.

5. Improving and developing resources and facilities to enable exceptional learning experiences.

6. Excellence in public examinations leading to opportunities in higher education and life beyond School as a consequence of these attitudes and factors.

These outcomes can only be attained if we...

Flourish Emotionally

1. Recognise that all progress in education relies upon the good mental health of everyone within our community.

2. Foster in every pupil a strong sense of selfworth, supported by an outstanding pastoral system.

3. Nurture our pupils so that they engage positively with their emotions, developing emotional resilience.

4. Help pupils to understand the spiritual dimensions of life, and to be able to make ethical and moral choices.

Flourish with Engagement

1. Encourage all pupils to explore their potential in everything they do.

2. Offer opportunities to pupils of all ages to develop their teamwork and leadership skills.

3. Recognise the importance of co-curricular activities as a means of promoting positive engagement.

4. Encourage our pupils to relate to the world and their fellow human beings in a tolerant, compassionate and responsible manner.

Flourish in Relationships

1. Put kindness at the very centre of our community.

2. Understand that healthy relationships with others is key to happiness.

3. Teach our pupils to empathise with each other.

Flourish in Meaning

1. Encourage our pupils to look beyond material goals and strive to make a positive difference to the world.

2. Develop in our pupils, and role-model as a whole School, an appreciation of our responsibilities to the School community and to society more widely.

Pastoral Care

King Edward’s is committed to providing pastoral care of the highest quality to all of its pupils.

The School takes a whole School approach to focusing on each individual emotionally and physically, and installs an ethos among pupils of supporting one another. Each child at King Edward’s is closely monitored through the role of tutors, teaching staff and non-teaching staff. Each pupil has a range of resources, communities and people to go to for support. Details of these can be found below.

Pastoral Structure

Lower School Upper School

Tutors

The role of the tutor is absolutely vital in this process: they will see your child more often than any other member of staff and will form a close bond as a result.

Pupils who join the School in Year 7 are allocated to a form, which serves as both their Tutor Group and their teaching group for this first year. After Year 7, pupils move into a new Tutor Group and remain with this group for two years. We believe this increases the value for everyone and helps to bridge the barriers that might otherwise separate Year Groups. At the start of Year 10 and at the start of the Lower Sixth, pupils will again move into a new Tutor Group. The tutor is responsible for

the supervision, guidance and care of the pupils in their Tutor Group, meeting them four mornings a week at 8.40am. Tutors keep records of attendance and academic progress for each pupil in their group and are also aware of individual circumstances and needs. Concerns about day-to-day administration, work, co-curricular activities or other related matters are addressed to the tutor in the first instance. The choice of tutor for each area of the School is very carefully considered in order to maximise their experience and specialisation to the benefit of the pupils. Tutors are assisted by group prefects in the Lower School. These are senior pupils who volunteer and have been chosen by the tutor and the Head of Lower School, in consultation

Sixth Form

with the Sixth Form pastoral team. The group prefects attend group meetings on a regular basis and are available to offer help and advice to younger pupils.

Heads of Year

Each Year Group has its own dedicated Head of Year. Additionally, the three main sections of the School have dedicated leadership: Head of Lower School, Head of Upper School and the Director of Sixth Form (Assistant Head).

All pastoral heads, the Deputy Head (Pastoral) and the Senior Deputy Head are available for consultation when needed.

Houses

The House System is an important part of life at King Edward’s. Upon entry, each pupil is assigned a House and will remain with it for the duration of their time at the School. Each House has two Heads of House who

are appointed annually by the Head (these students are selected from the Sixth Form).

There are six Houses, named after people closely associated with the history of the School. The six Houses

compete annually for the Allen Grant Trophy, which is awarded to the House that has scored the most points during the year in a series of academic, sporting and cultural competitions.

Capon House is named after the Rector of St Mary’s and founder of King Edward’s, William Capon.

Lake House is named after an Old Edwardian, favourite of Queen Elizabeth I and one-time resident of the Tower of London, Thomas Lake.

Lawrence House is named after Old Edwardian and the personal physician of Dr Johnson, Thomas Lawrence.

Reynolds House is named after Old Edwardian, Chaplain to King Charles I and Bishop of Norwich, Edward Reynolds.

Sylvester House is named after Old Edwardian and poet, Joshua Sylvester.

Watts House is named after Old Edwardian, pastor and author of hymns, including the School’s own ‘O God, our help in ages past’, Isaac Watts.

Tutor Groups

A typical Year 8 and Year 9 Tutor Group has approximately sixteen pupils. A similar arrangement exists in the Upper School where each group has a balance of Year 10 and Year 11 pupils. In the Sixth Form each Tutor Group has approximately twelve pupils, with a mixture of both Year Groups. All pupils in Year 8 to Year 11 inclusive, as well as being a member of a Tutor Group, belong to a form for their academic studies.

Food

The health and wellbeing of pupils is paramount, and we understand that good nutrition is vital in helping them to achieve their best in and outside of School.

The food provided is fresh and seasonal, using the best of British

fruit and vegetables where possible, providing freshly baked bread with soups, a varied salad bar, hot meals, sustainably sourced meats and sweet treats. We also have a ‘Street Food Bar’ where pupils will find an array of options that are suitable to grab and go.

Lunch is served by staff in our purpose-designed servery and pupils enjoy their food in our modern dining rooms, surrounded by staff and peers. Breakfast is also on offer to pupils each morning.

We can cater for most allergies and dietary preferences. Our menus change daily and weekly, meaning there is always something new and exciting on offer to pupils. It should be noted that School Lunch is an extra cost - details can be found on page 42. Pupils have the option to bring packed lunches if preferred.

The Wellbeing Centre

The Wellbeing Centre connects all the relevant areas of the School for enhancing the pupils’ wellbeing: learning support, the counsellor, the chaplain, the nurses, and a dedicated wellbeing room. The space has been designed to be a quiet space in the heart of the School, where any pupil can go, whenever they need to get away from the hustle and bustle of School life, or seek support for something affecting them outside of School.

School Nurses

The School Nurses are responsible for first aid and general medical assistance for pupils and are available throughout the School day.

School Counsellor

We are pleased to offer a fully trained and qualified School Counsellor to our pupils at no extra cost to parents. Pupils may do this directly or after referral by their tutor.

Curricular Wellbeing

Curricular Wellbeing lessons combine all aspects of PSHE (Personal, Social and Health Education) and SMSC (Spiritual, Moral, Social, Cultural Education) along with a number of lessons on important topics like mental resilience and emotional literacy. These lessons are taught to Years 7-11, with the Sixth Form following their own bespoke programme, and are coordinated by the Head of Wellbeing.

KES PTA

KES PTA (our parents’ association) is open to all friends of the School including parents, staff, governors and Old Edwardians, and plays an essential part in supporting the School. The association is elected at the AGM in the autumn and meets each term.

The main objectives are to promote the School and supplement its facilities. Regular social functions are the New Pupil and Parents’ Evening in September and the Annual Quiz.

As well as organising many social and fund-raising functions, the association runs the OBNO (Outgrown But Not Outworn) secondhand uniform shop.

King Edward VI School was shortlisted for Outstanding Pastoral Care In The 2023 Muddy Stilettos Awards.

"We are incredibly proud of the pastoral care here at King Edward VI School, Southampton. We can see ﬁrst hand the impact these changes have made to our pupils and the communities around us. Whilst our vision has become a reality, we strive continuously to improve and ensure we are offering the most outstanding pastoral care to the young people in our care"

- Mr. Parker, Head

Facilities at King Edward’s

Since first occupying the Hill Lane site in 1938, we have made many additions, renovations, and adjustments to our School to meet the everchanging needs of our pupils and to provide modern and innovative facilities.

Hill Lane

King Edward’s has occupied the Hill Lane site since 1938. With over thirteen acres it comprises an extensive range of facilities including a number of additions and major refurbishments completed over the last few years. The site also has sports field, a sports hall, netball courts and a full astro pitch.

Wellington Sports Ground

Situated on Stoneham Lane, just ten minutes from the main School site is our Sports Ground, Wellington. It contains thirty-three acres of grounds, six tennis courts, four netball courts and a water based astro pitch. A large pavilion with eighteen changing rooms, a kitchen and catering facilities for over one hundred pupils is also available.

Lovaton Rural Study Centre

Located near Yelverton on Dartmoor, it has easy access to the moor, and was converted to provide an offsite facility for twenty-four pupils including accommodation, a refectory, study area and a drying room. It is used as a base for the Duke of Edinburgh Award as well as for academic study weekends and fieldwork.

The Thould Library

The library is the heart of the School. Recently fully renovated, this bright, popular space can be used for study, reading, meeting like-minded peers and joining our Library Leader team. Spread over two floors, the library area provides a mix of formal work space and comfortable quiet reading areas, home to over 15,000 books, including fiction, nonfiction, magazines and academic texts.

The Dobson Theatre

The Dobson Theatre is a modern, versatile space designed to host a diverse programme of events for the School. The Dobson Theatre is frequently used for plays, music, dance, presentations and lectures.

Fitness Suite

Our pupils have the opportunity to develop physically through the use of our fitness suite. All pupils are inducted on how to use age appropriate movements and equipment in the facility and this gives them the opportunity to attend the fitness suite during lunch times and after School. Pupils are educated on how to

develop their own training programmes, as well as having access to specialist 1:1 advice from the Head of Strength and Conditioning. There are also weekly fitness classes run in the suite that aim to challenge pupils to ensure they reach their physical ambitions.

Classrooms

There are 92 classrooms available to pupils at our Hill Lane site. All classrooms are large and fully equipped with technology and facilities to assist pupils’ learning, including science labs, dedicated music practice rooms, recently extended art studios and ICT rooms.

Wellbeing Centre

The Wellbeing Centre connects all of the relevant areas of the School for enhancing the pupils’ wellbeing: learning support, the counsellor, the chaplain, the nurses, and a dedicated wellbeing room. The wellbeing room has been designed to be a quiet space in the heart of the School where any pupil can go when they need to get away from the hustle and bustle of School life. The extra comfy chairs and bean bags are ideal for our Peer Support programme, in which our Sixth Form pupils offer their time to talk to younger pupils and offer support.

Curriculum & Examination Results

Lower School

The Lower School curriculum aims to provide breadth, balance and variety of activity. All pupils follow a common curriculum in the first two years, as outlined below, with figures representing the number of 50-minute periods per two weeks allocated to a subject.

Year 7

Please note:

All pupils choose one of French or German or Spanish as their first modern foreign language. On Friday there is time devoted to the Extended Studies Programme, comprising six different units over the School year.

Year 8

Please note:

All pupils choose an additional modern foreign language alongside the continued study of the Language studied in Year 7.

Year 9

In addition, Year 9 pupils will choose three subjects from the following: Art , Classical Civilisation, Computer Science, Design Technology, Drama, Latin or Music. At least one of these options must be from the four creative subjects.

Upper School

In the Upper School the core is reduced and pupils choose to take three individual sciences, or dual award science. Pupils then choose three or four options of six periods per two weeks to complete their timetable. Languages must have been studied in Year 9 in order to be opted for at GCSE.

Year 10

Sciences: pupils will choose from one of the following pathways.

1) Biology (6), Chemistry (6), Physics (6) OR

2) Dual Award Science (12), plus additional subject option.

In addition, Year 10 pupils will choose three or four subjects from the following list.

Art Economics Latin

Classical Civilisation French Music

Computer Science Geography Religious Studies* Dance German Spanish Design Technology History Physical Education (GCSE) Drama Italian

*Those opting for Religious Studies Full course will take the Higher Project Qualification instead of the Religious Studies Short Course examination in Year 10.

Year 11

As per the Year 10 curriculum, Further Mathematics is taken as an extra examination by a proportion of the Year Group (usually top two sets).

Class Sizes

On entering the Lower School, a typical class size is 22. Once in the Sixth Form, classes are smaller still with an average class size of 8 this year. Small teaching groups throughout the School are supported by the very latest technology and modern facilities including an extensive use of 1:1 digital learning.

Reporting

Parents receive one formal written report during the course of the year and a parents’ evening provides an opportunity to discuss academic progress with teachers. Half term progress grades are given for all pupils. Parents are invited to contact the tutor in the first instance if they wish to raise any matter relating to their child’s School work or to arrange an individual meeting.

2024 GCSE Results

SUBJECT Ent

2024 A Level Results

To view our most updated results please visit kes.school or scan this QR Code.

Whilst it is essential for us to inform our families about what our Schools offer, we want to show you who we are, through honest, authentic stories, told by the pupils at KES and our wonderful staff.

As Hampshire’s leading 3-18 independent day School, we take pride in our reputation, yet we are equally proud to foster an environment where every child can succeed and shape their own narrative.

We invite you to delve into our collection of 70 stories, and discover the true character of a School where children create their own story.

kes.school/createyourstory

What do Parents Think?

Parent Testimonials

“I just wanted to thank all the teachers and School for all the hard work they put in with our children. My son is a different boy since he joined KES and that is for all good reasons.”

- KES Parent

“The opportunities at King Edward’s inside and outside the classroom are endless, there really is something for every child and what they enjoy.”

- Current Year 7 Parent

“I have watched my daughter blossom over the 5 years she has been at KES, ever since her ﬁrst day in Year 7, she has thrived in the School’s friendly, hardworking and ‘go-getting’ environment. I look forward to seeing what she continues to achieve as she joins the Sixth Form in September.”

- Current Year 11 Parent

“I can’t recommend King Edward’s enough; my son is very happy here.”

- Current Year 8 Parent

“The teachers at King Edward’s are fantastic, I know that whenever my children need extra help in the classroom, their teachers will be supportive and provide thorough feedback that is suitable for their age group.”

- Year 9 Parent

“If

I had to make the decision about where to send my children all over again, I’d choose KES without a moment’s hesitation. It has got something for everybody.”

- KES Parent

Life Outside the Classroom

Co-Curricular at King Edward’s

The co-curricular offering at King Edward’s represents a signiﬁcant part of the ‘KES’ experience.

We have a wide range of opportunities open to all pupils during their time with us. From sport, activities, clubs, societies, trips, the Duke of Edinburgh and much more, there is something for every pupil to enjoy.

We strongly believe that participating in activities outside the classroom has many benefi ts, including but not limited to; building social skills, making new friends, improving academic performance, an effective form of stress relief, broaden pupils’ horizons and experience, and improves employability.

Our co-curricular programme is suitable for all pupils, whether you are already competing nationally, or just enjoy taking part, looking to hone existing skills in a favourite activity or starting to explore something completely new.

Sport

We believe that Sport should be enjoyed by all pupils, and we are committed to providing opportunities for all pupils to flourish.

Creative Arts

There is a myriad of opportunities for all pupils to get involved within our vibrant Creative Arts department.

Clubs & Societies

There are over 70 clubs and societies offered in our cocurricular provision for all pupils to get involved in.

Charities & Partnerships

Fundraising for charities, raising awareness of local initiatives and supporting our local community is truly a whole community approach at King Edward’s and one led proudly by our pupils.

Trips & Duke of Edinburgh

We have an exciting calendar of trips for our pupils every academic year. The Duke of Edinburgh scheme is open to our pupils from Year 9.

Outdoor Learning

Our extensive Outdoor Learning initiative aims to inspire a love of the outdoors while developing pupil skill set and wellbeing through engagement

Sport at King Edward’s

Sport

plays a central role within the life of King Edward VI School pupils.

This successful department is committed to providing opportunities for all pupils to participate in sporting activity at all levels and to challenge and support pupils to achieve their sporting potential, whatever that may be.

The School’s major sports are Rugby, Hockey, Netball and Cricket.

We are proud that the majority of pupils represent the School. All teams have regular training sessions and these are an important part of our teams’ development and pupils involved in these teams are expected to attend.

Sports should be enjoyed

Physical activity is one of the most important parts of a child’s health, wellbeing and learning. We aim to help pupils to incorporate sport into their life, to keep their bodies strong and to grow their minds.

We understand that some pupils will naturally gravitate to sport, while others may not show as much interest. We endeavour to make sport fun, so that they can learn to incorporate exercise into their School life and beyond.

A King Edward’s pupil will get involved in inter-House tournaments. These are competitive, yet light-hearted games that allow pupils to compete against their classmates, and contribute points to their allocated houses. We organise

inter-Tutor Group athletics, where pupils are able to get involved in traditional athletic activities. Our annual sports day, is just another example of a fun day for the whole School.

Opening Up Opportunities

We think it’s important to offer pupils a broad range of sports, so that they can identify what sport or aspect of sport they most enjoy and can excel at.

Our pupils can compete for the School in local and national fixtures, or they can compete for their Tutor Group or house in School-wide tournaments.

We believe that sports help pupils to develop core skills such as cooperating, resolving conflict, learning to win and lose gracefully and providing them with ample social interaction.

Curricular Sports Programme

The curricular sports programme is split into two components: the Physical Education curriculum whereby students receive a breadth of experience which supports physical development

taught in a single lesson, and the curriculum games programme where the focus is on the main team sports of rugby, hockey, netball and cricket. This is delivered in a double lesson once a week and complemented by the co-curricular sporting practice and fixture programme.

Elite Sports Performer Programme

There are over 50 pupils at King Edward VI Sixth Form who are competing in their chosen Sport at a regional level or higher. The Elite Sports Performer Programme aims to provide these pupils with an additional support system, to assist them in achieving their potential in their sporting field whilst also fulfilling their academic goals.

Pupils who are invited on to the programme will receive mentoring support that works alongside the whole School pastoral system as well as access to the fitness facilities, tailor-made training programmes (if required) and an invitation to a series of talks from visiting speakers that cover a wide range of topic areas that are relevant to sports performance at a high level. Pupils will also have the chance to present to younger pupils in the School about their sporting achievements.

Our Elite Performers are fortunate to receive expert Strength and Conditioning advice in the form of a series of workshops and personalised 1:1 sessions. Pupils are taught how to move effectively in Strength and Conditioning sessions, the sessions also provide the athletes with a personalised training programme.

The Elite Sports Performer Programme supports our Elite Sports Performers in achieving both their sporting and academic potential, through:

• Assisting our Elite Sports Performers in managing their time between training, competing, resting and studying

• Liaising with their coaches

• Communicating with their subject teachers at King Edward’s and making them aware of their commitments to their sport throughout the week and at weekends

• Assisting in their short term and long-term goal setting

• Offering pupils Strength and Conditioning workshops to help minimise risk of injury

• Supporting the Elite Sports Performers throughout their potential rehabilitation processes

• Increasing awareness of sporting issues through a series of talks and visits

The Creative Arts at King Edward’s

Dance, Music, Art and Drama are our Creative Arts

Opportunities abound for pupils to pursue creative interests both within the curriculum and through the extensive co-curricular programme. Superb facilities supported by expert tuition provide the backbone for excellence within which pupils’ individual talents are nurtured and challenged.

Dance

King Edward’s has a vibrant and expanding department that aims to celebrate the many dance styles our pupils have passion for. We aim to promote inclusivity by offering opportunity to all abilities in a fun and welcoming environment.

The co-curricular programme for dance is continuously evolving depending on the interests of our pupils. Currently, our Ballet Club and Dance Clubs for different Year Groups welcomes all abilities from beginners through to advanced dancers.

Dancers are provided opportunity throughout the year to participate in professional workshops, visit the theatre, as well as perform in our annual Dance Gala, whole School productions, assemblies and concerts.

Music

Our co-curricular programme is rich and varied with many ensembles to enjoy.

We have three orchestras, three choirs, swing band, big band, soul band, rock academy, recorder consort and a large number of chamber music groups.

Many of our young musicians perform with county and national level ensembles. There are many opportunities for pupils to perform in concerts at School and in the wider community and there are regular trips abroad.

There are many opportunities for pupils to perform in concerts at School, in the wider community and on tour abroad. Regular trips to concerts and operas are arranged and professional musicians are invited into the department to lead a range of workshops and master classes.

450 pupils have one to one tuition at School, provided by a team of 30 visiting music teachers. Lessons are offered in all orchestral instruments, voice, kit percussion, classical and jazz piano, acoustic and electric guitar. The School is a centre for ABRSM music examinations.

The KES production of Chicago

The KES Junior Spring Concert

Art

The Art Department is a busy one at King Edward’s. Pupils are able to enjoy Art through clubs such as Architecture Society, Character Design Club and LifeDrawing.

Our purpose-built studios are designed to facilitate an open and interactive learning environment, operating an ‘open door’ policy throughout the School day. The department comprises of: a Painting Studio, a dedicated Art Computer Suite, running the Adobe Creative Cloud suite using the latest Apple iMacs, Printing

Studio, Sixth Form Studio, Kiln Room, a subject Library containing over 3,000 titles, Darkroom for processing and printing 35mm and 120mm formats. The Atrium gallery regularly has exhibitions of our pupils work including the annual Peter Folkes Exhibition as well as our prestigious Summer show.

Drama

The Dramatic Arts are truly valued at KES. The productions are popular and are performed at a very high standard. All productions are auditioned in front of a casting panel.

There are also opportunities for lunchtime drama clubs: the lower School junior drama club, the advanced theatre club (pupils are invited by invitation). There are also professional workshops for GCSE and A Level pupils to attend.

Theatre Trips are in place for both Lower School and Upper School, with further Theatre Trips provided to support GCSE and A Level curricula.

The KES Dance Gala

The KES production of The Dodger

Clubs & Societies at King Edward’s

Outside of the classroom, pupils are encouraged to get involved in a wide range of co-curricular activities, clubs and societies. Most of the opportunities are run by staff members, with a few organised and run by the pupils themselves.

Pupils have over 70 different clubs and societies to choose from, providing the perfect springboard from which to form new friendships, develop new interests and hone existing skills. If pupils would like to suggest or run their own club, this too can be arranged.

We recommend that pupils engage with three clubs or societies per term,

allowing them to immerse themselves in the School community and complement their academic work.

As pupils settle into their first year, the range of opportunities increases as they move through the school. By the end of Sixth Form, young people leave us for higher education full of confidence and experience, excited and prepared to make the most of life’s opportunities.

Explore the diverse list of societies that pupils are able to join each term.

Charities

Charities Commission: (Upper School & Sixth Form) and (Year 7 & Lower School)

Creative Arts

Art: Biological and Anatomical Drawing Club

Art: Character Design Club

Art: Doodle Club

Art: Life Drawing

Art: Origami Club

Art: Sewing Club

Dance: Ballet Club

Dance Club

Drama: Drama Club

Drama: Stage Crew

Music: Big Band

Music: Brass Ensemble

Music: Chamber Choir

Music: Chamber Orchestra

Music: Flute Choir

Music: Gramophone Society: Vinyl

Listening Club

Music: Grade V Theory Club

Music: KES Choir

Music: Rock Academy

Muisc: Senior String Chamber Music

Music: Sinfonia

Music: Swing Band

Music: Symphony Orchestra

Movie Effects Makeup Club

Humanities

Classics Society

Classics: Greek Club

Cryptic Crossword Club (Classics)

Debating Societies (Junior & Senior)

Economics Society

Economics: Reading

English: Book Club

English: Creative Writing

Geography Society

History: British Empire Revision

History: Coundley Society

Library Leaders

Literature Society (LITSoc)

Linguistics Olympiad

Philosoflix: Philosophy Through Film

Languages & Cultures

Christian Union

Diversity Society (KesKweers/MenSoc)

French Debating

Parler et Jouer: French Fun Club

Feminist Society (FEMSoc)

French: Sixth Form Film Club

French: Upper School French Club

German Lower School Club

Hispanic Culture Club

Italian: Bilingual Culture Club

Japanese Club (Beginners)

Mandarin: Beginners & Advanced

Multicultural Club (KES Around the World)

Neurodiversity Society (MINDSoc)

Spanish A Level Film Club

Ukrainian Club

Sports & Games

American Football: Flag

Bridge Club

Chess Club

Dungeons and Dragons Club

National Online Chess League

E-Sports Rocket League Club

Elite Performer S&C

Game of the Week

Golf Lessons

Football

Netball Club

Girls' Rugby

Poker Club

Sailing Club

Shooting Club

Wargaming

STEM

Chemistry: Problem Solving

Coding Club

Cyber Ambassadors

Digital Leaders

Digital Aspirants

Electronics Club

Engineering: Practical Skills

First Lego League

Lunar Society

Medical Society (MEDSoc)

Physics: GCSE Astronomy Club

Sustainability & Nature

Cactus Club

Greenpower

KES Spuds: Gardening Club

Sustainable Action Group

Textiles: Every Girl Deserves a Dress

Travel & Trips at King Edward’s

We never stand still at King Edward’s and have an exciting calendar of trips for our pupils.

Each curriculum subject offers pupils the chance to consolidate learning outside of the classroom with academic visits, events, day or residential trips. Pupils might visit the National Portrait Gallery with Art, the theatre with Dance or Drama, Milan with Italian, Washington USA with History and Politics, plus many more.

Outside of subject based trips, there are other opportunities for pupils to enrich learning, such as:

• Ski and Snowboarding Trip

• Duke of Edinburgh Expeditions

• Water Sports

• Sports Tours

• Charlotte Country Day School USA Exchange (Year 9)

Previous Overseas Trips

Andalucia

Belfast

Cologne

The French Alps

Florence

The Galapagos

Honduras

India

Indonesia

Jamaica

Milan

New York

Normandy North Carolina

Paris

Rome

South Africa

Spain

Sri Lanka

Tokyo

Vienna

Vietnam

There are also plenty of trips closer to home, for example, our Art pupils have visited the Harry Potter Studios in London and Drama pupils make frequent visits to the Mayflower Theatre in Southampton!

“My buddy’s family and my family keep in touch and have already started planning when I will go back. The Charlotte Exchange has been my favourite School trip I have been on, and I would recommend it to anyone.”

Year 9 pupil, Charlotte Exchange 2024

Watch highlights from Charlotte Exchange 2024

The Duke of Edinburgh Award

The Duke of Edinburgh programme is hugely valued at King Edward’s and plays a big part in the co-curricular programme.

We actively encourage pupils to engage with the scheme, to stretch and challenge themselves in ways that help them develop personal qualities that will service them so well in adult life.

We have a Duke of Edinburgh Manager to facilitate pupils’ progress, and the School’s Rural Study Centre at Lovaton is often a support base for Silver

expeditions are on Dartmoor. Our Gold expeditions will venture further afield to the mountains and hills of Wales and the Lake District, all led in-house by our qualified and dedicated staff.

There are three levels of the Award Programme: Bronze award, Silver award and Gold award.

Outdoor Learning at King Edward’s

Inspiring a love of the outdoors, the Outdoor Learning Programme at King Edward’s encourages pupils to develop their skill set and wellbeing through outdoor activities and engagement.

Key developmental and social skills such as teamwork, resilience, growth mindset, confidence, problem solving, creative thinking and independence are embedded in a positive Outdoor Learning experience.

We have a dedicated Head of Outdoor Learning at King Edward’s passionate about promoting Outdoor Learning. Growing confidence and team building skills from the get go, the Outdoor Learning experience starts just a few short weeks into every Year 7 students experience at King Edward’s with a

dedicated day of outdoor pursuits such as high and low ropes at a local activity centre. From a pupils first attempt at orienteering and fire lighting in Year 7 right the way to an expedition camping in Tanzania by Sixth Form, we encourage our pupils to engage with opportunities to grow their love of the outdoors.

Year 7 Outdoor Learning Programme includes:

• Team Building Day (land)

• Extended Studies Course

• Year 7 Camp

Outdoor Learning Opportunities (further across the School):

• Team Building Day (water)

• The Duke of Edinburgh Award

• Watersport Trip (Barcelona Trip 2024)

• Opwall (Indonesia 2024)

• Summer Camp (with a young carer group, overseen by Southampton City Council)

• International Expedition in partnership with True Adventure (Tanzania 2023)

“Pupils really enjoyed the experience as they got to work with people, they would not usually team up with, so you got to know others in the group far quicker. It also challenged them to face fears and overcome challenges

with the support of their peers, via communication and support” - Tutor Feedback, Year 7 Tile Barn Trip.

At King Edward’s we are committed to empowering future generations to live sustainably and make positive changes.

Our goal is for our pupils to understand that we are taking the challenges that the world is facing seriously and that we are acting to make a change. Becoming carbon neutral is our longer-

Spotlight on Sustainability Charities at King Edward’s at King Edward’s

“Our pupils are at the heart of driving action, ideas and change.”

King Edward’s strives to enable pupils to become role models and to take on responsibilities contributing to the School and local community.

Fundraising for charities, raising awareness of local initiatives and supporting our local community is truly a whole community approach at King Edward’s.

term sustainability ambition and we are striving to do this by considering the wider implications of our decision making and actions.

The Sustainability Action Group is a dedicated pupil-led forum for action and initiative. Pupils from any Year Group are welcome and the group has grown over the last few years. We have engaged the School community through the assembly programme and campaigns to pupils and staff about key environmental issues and by doing so, encouraged them to take an active role in environmental projects. Events take place each term

including opportunities for community benefit and awareness raising such as: slow fashion sales, an electric car show, Christmas card repurposing, food waste collection, sustainable period campaign, encouraging OBNO (King Edward’s second hand uniform shop run by KESPTA) for uniform reuse, gardening in the King Edward’s School allotment and more.

Read more about sustainability at KES online at kes.school

Our charities commission is made up of over 100 pupils from Year 7 to Sixth Form and these are the pupils responsible for encouraging entire School involvement.

An extensive range of activities takes place across the academic year to support charities, examples include themed sales, sports competitions, poppy selling, Year 7 Toy Appeal Fun Run, collections for Refugees, and much more.

Admissions & How to Apply Your journey to joining King Edward’s

KES Open Evening Interviews

FRIDAY 4 OCTOBER 2024

MONDAY 20 JANUARY 2025 Closing Date for Applications

TUESDAY 7 – FRIDAY 10 JANUARY 2025

SATURDAY 18 JANUARY 2025

FRIDAY 15 NOVEMBER 2024 Admissions Examination

We are delighted that you are considering King Edward’s for your child.

Our main entry points are Year 7, Year 9 and Sixth Form, but we do accept applications for other Year Groups depending on availability.

Examinations

Each 11+ and 13+ candidate is tested in two areas: English and Mathematics. No special preparation is expected or required for the tests and past papers are not published for tests at any level.

For more information on the entrance examinations, please visit kes.school.

Interviews

Award Assessment (11+)

FRIDAY 24 JANUARY 2025

In addition to the examinations, applicants will attend an interview at King Edward’s as part of the application process. Our interviews are a lovely opportunity for us to get to know your child, and to find out who they are as an individual. Unlike the examinations, the interviews are not academically focussed and are likely to involve a discussion of your child’s interests both in and outside School. They last for approximately 15 minutes, and children will be interviewed by a member of the teaching staff. These interviews also provide an opportunity for your child to find out about us and to ask any questions they may have. There is no preparation required for the interview.

Date for Acceptances

SATURDAY 25 JANUARY 2025

TUESDAY 4 FEBRUARY 2025

TUESDAY 25 FEBRUARY

TUESDAY 4 MARCH 2025

Enquiry Form

Through filling in the enquiry form, you will be notifying us of your interest in our School and provide us with details on what point of entry and year you are looking at, so that we can provide you with the most relevant and useful information and reminders. From here on, we will be able to keep you notified on key dates and events you might be interested in.

Please visit kes.school to access the enquiry form.

Application Forms

Application forms are available from September and need to be completed and returned in November. Families will need to provide a non-refundable fee of £100 to apply, or £30 for bursary applications.

This application includes:

• Application form

• Bursary Application Form*

• Creative Arts Scholarship Form*

• Sports Award Application Form

* (Year 7 & Year 9 applications only)

Please note, everyone that applies is automatically considered for the academic scholarship. There is no need to apply.

Contact our Admissions Team:

Mrs Emma Sheppard is the Assistant Head (Registrar) here at King Edward’s. Our Admissions Team are happy to answer any questions you may have about applying to our School.

Email: registrar@kes.hants.sch.uk

Call: 023 8079 9216

Admissions FAQs

We understand that applying for a School place is often a completely new experience for parents, and you’re

bound

to have many questions.

Our admissions team have answered some of the most common questions they get asked by parents.

What does the entrance exam consist of?

Our entrance exam tests each candidate in two key areas: English and Mathematics.

What preparation is required for the admissions exams?

No special preparation is expected or required for the tests. For 11+ and 13+ entry, questions are based on the National Curriculum.

Are past papers available?

Past papers are not published for tests at any level.

How much are the fees at King Edward’s?

Information regarding the fees can be found on page 42

How much are the lunches?

For 2024-25, the cost of lunch is £6.25 per day. For that price, pupils have a choice of salads, soups, sandwiches, hot dinners, vegetables and desserts.

What is included within the School fee?

The School fees are all-inclusive, with a 5% reduction available for siblings who are not receiving bursary awards.

Most day trips, sports, sports fixtures, societies and clubs are included within the fee. Exceptions are in Sailing and Shooting Club, which require a fee when signing-up and optional subject enrichment trips such as theatre visits.

Optional extras are available, including: School buses, lunches, instrumental one-to-one music lessons and residential trips.

What clubs and societies do you offer?

At KES clubs and societies form a key part of School life. We usually have around 70 clubs running each term, providing pupils with plenty of opportunities to gain skills, make friends and try something new. A full list of available clubs can be found on page 32

Is there a Saturday School?

There is no Saturday teaching at King Edward VI School. However, there is almost always sport practice or sport fixtures for pupils to take part in.

Do I still have to apply to a state School?

You do not have to apply to a state School, and King Edward’s operates completely independently from the state School admissions system. However, we always advise parents to have a backup option in place. If you wish to apply to other Schools (state or private) you will need to arrange this separately.

Can we defer a place?

Deferring a place is not possible. Should you choose not to accept your child’s place for the offered School year, and subsequently apply for a different year, your child will need to sit the admissions examination for the correct Year Group.

Do you offer scholarships? How do you apply for these?

We are extremely proud to offer an array of scholarships at King Edward VI School. Full details on our scholarship programme and the scholarships offered can be found on page 43

All applicants are automatically considered for academic scholarships, which are awarded based on the entrance exam. For creative arts scholarships and sports awards, parents can find the relevant forms to complete in the admissions pack.

Do you accept international applications?

We are always delighted to welcome applications from pupils who are currently studying overseas, either in British/international Schools or in local Schools. Please be aware that we are a day School with no boarding facility and as such we do not arrange or sponsor visas for children; families will need to arrange their own visas and ensure that they comply with all UK entry requirements. For more information please contact the Registrar, Mrs Sheppard, at registrar@kes.hants.sch.uk.

Fees

The fee, as of Autumn Term 2024, is £21,294 per annum. This is paid via three termly payments of £7,098. Please see our website for further information on VAT and school fees with the 2024 policy change. www.kes.school/vat

Included within the fees:

• All sports through your child’s time with us.

• All sports fixtures, which take place every Saturday term time, both home and away.

• All societies and clubs, of which we offer 70 each term*

• Subsidised Curriculum Trips

• Use of a personal locker, during their time at the School

Fees in Advance Scheme

We are offering a Fees in Advance Scheme where the cost of your child’s education at King Edward VI School Southampton can be reduced by making an advanced lump sum payment dependent on the agreed number of terms to which the advance payment applies.

If you are interested in finding out more about the scheme please email billing@kes.hants.sch.uk

Optional Extras

Healthy School lunches (at £6.25 per day), the school bus, insurance, instrumental tuition, residential trips and tours.

Lunches

For 2024-25, the cost of lunch is £6.25 per day. For that price, pupils have a choice of salads, soups, sandwiches, hot dinners, vegetables and desserts.

Family Reduction

We offer an all-inclusive 5% reduction for siblings who are not receiving any bursary awards.

Payment

Payments are by direct debit on the first day of term unless an alternative arrangement has been agreed. Third party companies provide monthly payment options, details of which will be forwarded with the Autumn Term fee account. Parents are advised to take independent financial advice should they wish to use any third-party payment options.

Deposit

If, in due course, a place is offered, a deposit of £400 will be payable when the offer is accepted. This deposit will be repaid, without interest, within three months of the pupil leaving the School less any sums due to the School on leaving.

Applications

A £100 non-returnable fee is charged for an application except when the application to be considered is for a bursary place when the fee is £30.

Withdrawal

One term’s notice in writing of the intention to withdraw a pupil from the School must be given. Without such notice a term’s fee in lieu of notice is due.

Insurances

Fees cannot be refunded for absence and parents are advised to take advantage of the School fees remission scheme, details of which are forwarded when a pupil enters the School. Parents are also invited to consider insuring the payment of School fees in the event of the death of the fee payer. Parents are advised to take independent advice should they wish to use any third-party insurance options.

Scholarships

Academic Scholarships

A limited number of scholarships are available to entrants at age 11+ and 13+, valued at up to 5% of the fee per annum.

These will be awarded upon the results of the Admissions Examination. The scholarships are awarded at 11+ and 13+ and are tenable for one year. There is no need to apply for an academic scholarship as all applicants are automatically eligible.

Creative Arts Scholarships

Creative Arts Scholarships are available at 11+ in Music, Art and Drama and at 13+ in Music only. These are valued at up to 5% of the fee per annum and are tenable for three years (one year for the 13+ Music Scholarship). Candidates may apply for one Creative Arts Scholarship only. The successful candidates would be expected, during the tenure of their award, to make an important and continuing contribution to the creative arts at the School. Candidates applying for a Creative Arts Scholarship may also apply for a Sports Award.

Music Scholarships

Candidates at 11+ should have reached approximately the standard of grade 5 in one instrument (grade 6 for 13+ candidates). The ability to sing or some competence in a second instrument would be regarded as an additional, though not essential, qualification.

Short-listed candidates will be invited to audition and asked to play two prepared pieces of contrasting styles. Candidates may offer singing, the piano or any orchestral instrument. Both pieces may be played on the same instrument: alternatively, where two instruments are offered, one piece may be played on the candidate’s first instrument, the other on the second. Candidates will also be asked to play a piece of sight-reading on the first instrument.

Drama Scholarships

The short-listed candidates will be invited to attend individual auditions, interviews and a group workshop. Auditions will take place in front of the Head of Drama, another member of the Drama Department and the other auditionees. In addition, each child will have a short, informal interview about their performance, experience and their interest in Drama. The final session will be a whole group workshop in which the children may be asked to work on various games, improvisations and sketches together.

Art Scholarships

Candidates should prepare a portfolio of their own work. Candidates must display both a flair for, and an interest in, the subject. From the portfolios we receive, a shortlist of candidates will be drawn up and invited to attend a workshop. The morning will consist of an interview with a member of the department where

candidates will have the opportunity to discuss their work and interest in art. There will be two set tasks whereby candidates can demonstrate their talents in observational drawing, imagination and three-dimensional skills.

Sports Awards

At King Edward’s we value sport and it is a very important part of the School’s ethos. Each year a number of Sports Awards are available for those applying to join us at both at 11+ and at 13+. In addition to the receipt of an award, the recipient will be a member of the Elite Sports Performer Programme in which we support the individual’s sporting development within the whole School environment. We invite applications from children with a passion for sport who have achieved, or shown the potential to achieve, a high level of sporting performance in at least one of the School’s major sports; hockey, netball and cricket for girls, and hockey, rugby and cricket for boys.

A shortlist of applicants will be invited to attend a selection day. This will involve a morning of fi tness assessment and an afternoon of team sport coaching sessions that will focus on competitive sporting performance.

Candidates may apply for a Sports Award as well a Creative Arts Scholarship.

Afjal

(KES 17-24)

I would encourage anyone thinking of applying for a bursary to attend KES to ‘Go for it’.

My

ﬁ rst exposure to KES was with the partnership programme that was running with my primary School. I came along with my class and took part in Science, Art and Philosophy sessions and my Head Teacher subsequently encouraged me to apply for a place.

The day I found out that I had passed the entrance exam and had been offered a full bursary place was a happy and emotional one for me and my family. We held a big party to celebrate and I was even prouder when I first started in Year 7 when the Head came up to me and told me, “Your paper is one of the best that I’ve read”.

7 years later, I am now in my final year of KES, studying 4 A Levels in Maths, Further Maths, Computing and Physics with a view to studying Maths and Philosophy at University. Beyond that, I am uncertain about the specific direction I want to take with my career. I am currently exploring more creative paths outside of pure STEM, an area that I really enjoyed lower down in the School, with hopes to incorporate these somehow into my career.

I envisage myself somewhere in the likes of academia, AI, or entrepreneurship: all I can say is, watch this space! Alongside working hard on my academics, I am heavily immersed in co-curriculars at KES, having attended somewhere in the region of 30 different clubs over my 7 years here.

I found these to be a really valuable opportunity to delve into my interests outside of the curriculum, and to see practical applications of a lot of my classwork. Greenpower was a highlight for me, and we built and designed a kit car that we raced at Goodwood. I have also been an active member of Lunar Society, delivering several maths-themed lectures, and I have served as Head of Sustainability in my Upper Sixth year. KES has been instrumental in helping me get to where I am today.

Being surrounded by so many likeminded people within my peer group under the guidance and nurture of my teachers is, for me, my favourite part of KES and has provided me with the perfect forum to explore my passions and develop my intellectual curiosity. This spark is something that has somewhat contagiously caught on in my sisters and other family members too, with the effects of me going to a School like KES echoing well beyond my own individual growth.

I would encourage anyone thinking of applying for a bursary to attend KES to ‘Go for it’. Although it might all seem a little daunting, joining a brand new School, and leaving behind a lot of your friends, I’ve found that there have been so many benefi ts to coming here, some that I’m only realising now, and I can’t imagine myself anywhere else. I am truly grateful to all those who have supported the King Edward VI Foundation, and I want you to know that your generosity has reached far beyond a simple scholarship.

A KES Bursary truly transforms lives: it fuels success stories, cultivates a community where diverse perspectives converge, and empowers all individuals to thrive.

Bursaries at King Edward’s

The School will offer a number of means-tested bursaries each year to pupils entering Year 7, Year 9 and the Sixth Form. Bursaries will have a maximum value of 100% of the full fee.

In addition to taking account of all relevant sources of income, the School takes account of relevant capital assets. Applicants should note that subject to your capital assets, if your gross family income is below approximately £46,000 you may qualify for a full bursary. If your gross family income is in excess of approximately £92,000 you would not qualify for any assistance. Between these two figures a sliding scale will operate. This scale is subject to annual review. Once awarded, the entitlement to a bursary will remain with a pupil throughout his or her time at the School and will be reviewed annually.

Uniform

Uniform at KES

The uniform at KES was redesigned in 2022 with the twin goals of achieving something that was both smart and realistically priced for our families. The majority of the items should either be purchased at our uniform supplier Stevensons, or at our second-hand uniform shop OBNO (Outgrown But Not Outworn).

We feel it is important that our pupils look smart, as it promotes a healthy frame of mind for learning. As a consequence we will frequently remind pupils to maintain their standards and will sanction those who fall short of expectations in this regard.

Sixth Form Dress Code

The Sixth Form do not have a uniform, but must adhere to a Dress Code that emphasises a smart, formal look. We know that our younger pupils look up to our Sixth Formers and aspire to be like them one day, so it is very important for us that those at the top of the School really set the tone when it comes to their everyday appearance.

Getting to School

We recognise how important it is to provide suitable transport for our pupils and therefore offer an extensive tracked transport service covering many parts of Hampshire, and further afield.

Currently, around 700 pupils are transported to and from School on a daily basis. Buses are timetabled to arrive at School by 08:30 and leave the School site at 16:10 in the afternoon. To accommodate our popular co-curricular and after School activities, we offer a late bus service which operates separate bus routes to those offered in the day time. The late buses stop only if requested by passengers as they board the bus. Late buses depart at 17.30 each evening.

For more information on the detailed routes of the KES Transport Service or to read our further Terms and Conditions, please see our website.

To contact our Transport Oﬃcer, please email transport@kes.hants.sch.uk

KES Bus Route Overview 2024-25

View the most up-to-date routes here.

Our Teachers

We are proud to have a teaching body who are highly qualiﬁed and skilled within their ﬁelds.

We are committed to providing the very best education for our pupils and this is ensured by ensuring each subject is taught by subject specialists.

Teaching Staff by Department

Art

Head of Creative Arts

Mr GL Piggott BA Exeter College of Art and Design

Mrs J Corbett MA University of Portsmouth | Vilnius University Academy of Arts

Mr ET Lewis BA Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London

Mrs A P Kidman BA Falmouth University

Mrs NA Moxon BA (Hons) University College of Ripon and York | Extended Studies Coordinator | Sixth Form Charities Coordinator for Partnerships

Biology

Head of Biology

Dr NC Wortham PhD, MBioChem St Peter’s College, Oxford | University College London.

Mr ST Aellen BSc University of Leicester | Head of Science

Mrs LC Burnett BSc University of Exeter | Head of Year 7

Miss HE Crompton BSc University of Exeter | Summer Camp Coordinator | Head of Lake

Miss C Cooper BSc University of Southampton

Mrs FK Taylor BSc University of Nottingham

Chemistry

Head of Chemistry Mrs LA Millington BSc University of Bath

Mrs JN Collinson MChem University of Surrey

Mr RJ Cross BSc University of Birmingham

Mr AF Dellar BSc University of Birmingham | Senior Deputy Head

Mrs GM Dellar BSc University of Essex

Dr SD Gamblin BSc PhD Queen Mary and Westfield College London | Deputy Director of Studies

Mrs EL Sheppard BSc University of Warwick | Assistant Head (Registrar)

Mr AJ Smith BSc University of Bristol | Sixth Form Futures Coordinator

Dr EL Thomas MChem PhD

Somerville College, Oxford and University of Edinburgh | Assistant Head | Director of Sixth Form

Classics

Head of Classics

Miss I Painter BA University of Durham

Mr JC Halls MA University of Edinburgh

Mr NS Lobo MA BA University of Sheﬃeld | University College London

Computer Science

Head of Computer Science and Digital Literacy

Mr D Cutler MPhys University of Southampton

Mr LJ Hall BEng

Southampton Solent University | E-Learning Coordinator

Mrs F Price BA

King Alfred’s College | Charities Coordinator | E-Safety Coordinator | Partnerships Coordinator

Design and Technology

Head of Design and Technology

Mrs AML Blow BSc Bournemouth University

Mrs S Channer BEng University of Southampton

Mrs A Herbert BA Nottingham Trent University

Mr OJ Rokison Meng University of Edinburgh | Assistant Head (Digital Strategy)

Mrs SJ Peterson BA University of Bath

Dance

Miss SJ Barnett BA University of Southampton | Dance Coordinator

Drama

Director of Drama

Ms LA Gilmour BA King Alfred’s College, University of Southampton

Mrs FC Bailey BA Middlesex University

Economics & Business

Head of Economics

Mr P Sheppard BSc University of Southampton

Mr ND Culver BA Jesus College, Oxford

Mr MO Laverty BA University of Portsmouth | Coordinator of Business

Mr RP Nichols BA University of Exeter

Mr S Ritchie BA University of Essex

Mrs AM Sparkes MA BSc University College London | University of Southampton

English

Head of English

Dr AJ Schoﬁeld BA MA PhD University of Warwick, King’s College London | University of Southampton

Mrs HK Arnold BA Loughborough University | Second in English

Mr WE Collinson BA

St Peter’s College, Oxford | Deputy Head (Pastoral)

Ms LS Dara MA MPhil Brunel University | University of Southampton

Mrs S Evans BA Bath Spa University | Head of Year Upper School

Mrs JL Gunton BA University of Southampton | Second in English and ITT Tutor

Ms C Pyne BA MA University of Manchester

Ms EB Rawson BA MA University of Colorado

Geography

Head of Geography

Ms TL King BA Hertford College, Oxford

Dr T Fewtrell BSC PhD Loughborough University | Acting Head of Year (Sixth Form)

Mrs LJ Gibbs BA University of Southampton | Head of Year - Sixth Form

Mrs SPL Kopitsa BSc University of Southampton

Mrs JK McConnachie BM Cardiff University | Head of Capon

Mrs AH Penfold BA University of Exeter | Sustainability Coordinator

Mrs ES Walls MSc University of Leeds | Head of Year - Lower School

Dr BM Waymark BA, MA(Ed), EdD University of Southampton

History

Head of Humanities

Mr NJ Diver BA Wadham College, Oxford

Miss JM Barron BA Downing College, Cambridge

Mrs S Burt BA MA

Somerville College, Oxford | University of Southampton | Head of Sixth Form Academic Enrichment

Mr CMJ Dormehl BA Newcastle University | Head of Year Lower School

Mrs AF Leathem MA University of Aberdeen

Mrs RK Potter BA University of Kent | Politics Co-ordinator

Mr G Potter BA University of East Anglia | Key Stage Four Enrichment Coordinator

Mathematics

Head of Mathematics

Mr GA Eyssens BEd University of Melbourne

Mrs CS Asiki BA MA St Anne’s College, Oxford | University of London | Second in Mathematics

Mr SE Barley BSc MSc

Durham University | University of Bath | Head of Watts

Ms C Dolan BSc University of Nottingham

Mrs LM Matthews BSc University of Portsmouth

Mr RP Nichols BA University of Exeter

Miss ES Ridley BSc King’s College London

Mr PJ Robinson BEng MSc MA

Nottingham Trent University | University of Southampton | University of Winchester

Mr I Rosenburg

Bedford College of Higher Education | Head of Year Upper School

Mrs JA Thimbleby BSc University of Manchester | Second in Mathematics

Mr MP Willis BEd University of Birmingham

Modern

Languages

Head of Languages

Mr AJM Sinclair BA

Royal Holloway, University of London | Senior Staff Leader

Miss V Berrueco Pastor MA University of Alcalá

Miss LE Breheny BA Université des Antilles et de la Guyane in Martinique

Ms KM Clement MA

University of St Andrews | Head of French

Mrs HX Deng MA Yokohama Commence University

Miss A Galan PGCE University of Portsmouth

Miss EM Ladislao MA University of Salamanca | Head of Spanish

Mr GSP Lawson BA MA

University College London | University of Salford | Co-ordinator for the Very Able

Mrs S Rugge-Price MA University of Edinburgh | Italian Co-ordinator

Mr R Soames BA University College London | Head of German

Ms FG Quinn BA The University of Salford

Music

Director of Music

Ms TJ Hayden MA BMusEd King’s College London | Trinity College Dublin

Miss CE Forsey BMus, PGDip Royal College of Music | Assistant Head (CoCurricular)

Miss B Wu BA King’s College London

Physical Education

Director of Sport

Mr D Kent BA University of Surrey

Miss LG Cole BSc

University of Bournemouth, Open University

Mr CS Crichton BA University of Fort Hare | Head of Capon | Head of Hockey

Mrs LC Henderson BEd University of Exeter | Head of Lower School

Mr A Leathem BA

Chichester University | Head of Academic PE | Lecture Co-ordinator

Miss LA Lister BSc

University of Birmingham and University of Buckingham | Head of Netball | Head of Lawrence

Mr MG Mixer BSc University of Birmingham | Head of PE and Games

Mr AD Penn BA

Canterbury Christ Church University | Head of Reynolds | Head of Cricket | Elite Sports Performance and Fitness Coordinator

Mrs HML Penn BA

Canterbury Christ Church University

Mr AL Powell BSc MSc

Brunel University London | Cardiff University | Head of Rugby

Miss LE Read BSc Cardiff Metropolitan University

Psychology

Head of Psychology

Mrs Brindley-Ewan MA Oxon Oxford University

Mr CJC Jackson BSc

University of East London | Head of Wellbeing

Physics

Head of Physics

Mr RS Simm BSc University of Manchester

Mrs PE Burrows BSc MSc

University of Bath | University of Birmingham | Assistant Head (Teacher Development & Pedagogy) | Lecture Series Coordinator

Mr JA Ferguson MEng University of Southampton

Mr DM Lawson MEng

Imperial College London

Mrs M Mahdavi BSc University of Tabriz

Dr MK Mayor MSc PhD

University of Gdańsk | University of Aberdeen | Junior Science Co-ordinator

Mrs C Ribas de Oliveria BSc MSc

University of Sao Paulo | University Anhembi Morumbi | Head of Slyvester

Religious Studies

Head of Religious Studies

Mr AE Cross MA

University of Southampton

Mrs RS Kairis BA University of Winchester | Faiths Coordinator

Mrs HEM Searles BA MA

Wellbeing Team

University of Bristol | University of Portsmouth | Head of Upper School

Mr CJC Jackson BSc Head of Wellbeing

Mrs LC Burnett BSc Head of Year 7

Mr WE Collinson BA Deputy Head, Pastoral

Mr CMJ Dormehl BA Head of Year – Lower School

Mrs S Evans BA Head of Year – Upper School

Dr T Fewtrell BSc, PhD Acting Head of Year – Sixth Form

Mrs LJ Gibbs BA Head of Year – Sixth Form

Mrs LC Henderson BEd Head of Lower School

Mr NT Parker MA M.Ed MBA Head

Mr I Rosenburg Head of Year – Upper School

Mrs HEM Searles BA Head of Upper School

Dr EL Thomas MChem PhD Assistant Head | Director of Sixth Form

Curriculum Support

Mrs ES Walls MSc Head of Year – Lower School

Head of Curriculum Support, SENCO

Mrs Ramshaw BA University of Chichester

Miss A Benacha MA BA Portsmouth University | Ecole Normal Superieure

Mrs M Khamzina MA National Pedagogical Drahomanov University

Ms A Rayner BA University of Oxford

Mr AJ Smart BA University of the West of England

Senior Leadership Team School Governors

Head

Mr NT Parker MA M.Ed MBA

St Anne’s College, Oxford | Newcastle University, | Open University

Senior Deputy Head

Mr AF Dellar BSc University of Birmingham

Bursar

Mrs NJ Slowey MBA BSc

Henley Management College | University of Plymouth

Deputy Head (Academic)

Dr BM Waymark BA, MA(Ed), EdD University of Southampton

Deputy Head (Pastoral)

Mr WE Collinson BA

St Peter’s College, Oxford

Assistant Head (Registrar)

Mrs EL Sheppard BSc University of Warwick

Assistant Head (Co-curricular)

Miss CE Forsey BMus, PGDip Royal College of Music

Assistant Head (Teacher Development & Pedagogy)

Mrs PE Burrows BSc MSc University of Bath | University of Birmingham

Assistant Head (Digital Strategy)

Mr OJ Rokison MEng University of Edinburgh

Assistant Head (Director of Sixth Form)

Dr EL Thomas MChem PhD Somerville College, Oxford | University of Edinburgh

Head of Upper School

Mrs HEM Searles BA MA University of Bristol | University of Portsmouth | Senior Staff Leader

Head of Lower School

Mrs LC Henderson BEd University of Exeter

Patron

HM Lord - Lieutenant of Hampshire

Governors

Chair:

Mr G C B Davies (6)

Vice-Chair:

Mr IH Rudland (6)

Cllr M Chaloner MA (Cantab)

Barrister-at-Law (5)

Mr A J Connell BSc (2)

Mr D S Dhanda (6)

Reverend J M Finch (1)

Mr D P Geddes (6)

Mr J J Gray BSc FCA (6)

Mr A Jones (6)

Miss P S Kirk B.Ed Cert.Ed (6)

Mr A Knibb BA (Hons), B Arch, ARB, RIBA, Vice Chairman Hampshire RIBA (6)

Mrs C Lamber t (5)

Mr A J Morgan MA (Oxon), FCA, ATII (6)

Mrs C G Musker Chartered MCIPD (6)

Mrs H V Nicholson MA (Oxon) MSc (4)

Cllr N S Penman (3)

Mr T A M Steele FCA (6)

Miss V C Stuart-Taylor MA (6)

Mrs W P Swinn BDS, LDS, RCS (6)

Dr A L Thomas MA, PhD (Cantab), CBiol, MRSB (6)

Mrs G Warrington (6)

Clerk:

Mrs D M Hummerstone

1. Ex officio

2. Appointed by the Old Edwardians’ Association

3. Appointed by the Hampshire County Council

4. Appointed by the Senate of the University of Southampton

5. Appointed by the Southampton City Council

6. Appointed by the Board of Directors of the Hampshire Chamber of Commerce

For further information on the Governors’ Committees and SubCommittees, contact the Bursar: bursar@kes.hants.sch.uk

King Edward VI Nursery

Our outstanding Nursery is open for 51 weeks of the year. We are delighted that in September 2024 we have welcomed children aged two and upwards.

Our Nursery is a magical and special place, filled with joy and fun. Our youngest children play, learn and develop in our well-resourced indoor area which flows out to a covered outdoor classroom. These areas enable our children to explore and discover in their preferred environment. Whether your child thrives in the classroom, or outside, we cater for both these preferences. Many of our children are adventurous and prefer to learn outdoors. Therefore, we ensure there are many opportunities to learn and develop outside of the classroom. In 2023, we opened our Little Meadow area which is a pocket of wonderful nature on our doorstep for children to immerse themselves in.

King Edward VI Preparatory School

King Edward VI Preparatory School is a leading independent prep school set in beautiful rural Romsey, just 15 minutes from the Senior School in Southampton. With easy transport links to Southampton, Winchester and the surrounding areas, KES Prep offers the all-important foundations to a successful onward journey.

Our aim is to ensure our children flourish and become the very best version of themselves. We strive to uncover and nurture talents and passions, develop strength of character and promote a deep love of learning. We are hugely ambitious for our children, but do not believe academic rigour has to be to the detriment of a happy childhood. Thriving outside the classroom is just as important as innovating within it. Our curriculum stretches, challenges, engages and inspires; and our 22 acres and fantastic facilities allow us to provide incredible opportunities for our children at every stage of their journey.

Your Leading 2-18 Co-Educational Independent Day School in Hampshire

King Edward VI School

We are proud of the academic rigour which fuels our pupils’ hard work and commitment, leading to outstanding results each year at King Edward’s. Intertwined with academia, we emphasise to our pupils the importance of co-curricular opportunities as well as the wellbeing care that allows our pupils to excel; becoming well-rounded individuals.

King Edward VI Sixth Form

Being a Sixth Former at King Edward’s means being inquisitive, ambitious, caring and inclusive. It is the time where you get to specialise academically, develop your independence and challenge yourself personally.

We are unashamedly academic. Classes are small and taught by subject specialists. You will be encouraged to debate and challenge ideas, have open-minded discussions and explore your subjects in both breadth and depth. All pupils study a full-time course of three A Levels. Our vibrant co-curricular programme emphasises our belief that education is more than a set of grades. Our Sixth Formers are encouraged to take the opportunities offered, at home and abroad.

We are incredibly proud of our Sixth Form and welcome you to come and visit us, to see for yourself the opportunities on offer.

Admissions Team

023 8079 9216

registrar@kes.hants.sch.uk

Wilton Road Southampton SO15 5UQ

www.kes.school

Get in Touch Visit us

Throughout the year, we invite families to visit and experience our School, to help decide if King Edward VI School is right for your child.

Our Open Events and Individual Tours provide the perfect opportunity to gain an insight into what life at King Edward VI School is like.

Please visit our website for information on our upcoming open events and how to register. We look forward to welcoming you to our School soon.

View the most up-to-date event information at kes.school