King's School Rochester - Mini Prospectus - Senior School & Sixth Form

There’s one motto we live by at King’s, and that’s simply ‘Work hard, play hard and look after each other’ no matter what age you are...

Welcome to KING’S SCHOOL ROCHESTER

Academic rigour and qualifications are very important of course, but a real education goes much further and develops the skills and character which every young person needs to make the most of their abilities. It may be the academic results which secure the interview but beyond this, it is the engaging character who is offered the job.

At the heart of the King’s approach is the achievement of academic potential, and our excellent results at GCSE and A Level arise from a love of learning, supported and guided by exceptional teaching within the framework of an innovative curriculum which best serves our pupils in a fast-changing and globalised world.

Extensive co-curricular activities give pupils the opportunity to try out many new experiences and this, along with a strong set of values, is the bedrock of a rounded, confident individual.

Do come and visit us and find out what makes our School so special. We would be delighted to welcome you into the King’s family.

Ben Charles Principal and Head of King’s Senior School

A great education prepares young people of all abilities and diverse talents for a successful and fulfilled life, and this is precisely what we provide at King’s.

VALUES & ETHOS

Our pupil’s gain the foundation for an enriched, healthy and rewarding life.

The goal of our Senior School is to ignite interests in subjects and areas that our pupils may not have previously considered, and extend the intellect of every pupil, whatever their strengths may be.

Compassion and regard for others are central values, and pupils develop the strength of character to become valuable future members of society.

With many co-curricular activities to experience and enjoy, we believe pupils’ progression is complimented by the skills and interests that are nurtured in and beyond the classroom.

All these aspects enable each pupil to make informed decisions regarding their future career paths and ultimately go on to lead rewarding and fulfilling lives.

PASTORAL CARE

We want every pupil’s experience to be happy and fulfilling.

With this in mind, we ensure that our pupils are well supported so that they can concentrate on enjoying their time at school. The health and well-being of pupils is our priority, and we pride ourselves on the excellent pastoral provision delivered by our team of highly experienced teachers, tutors and boarding house staff. Pastoral care at King’s is further supported by the Chaplain, a counsellor, Well-being Coordinator and School Nurse.

At King’s, our House system plays a crucial role in our pastoral care provision, and there are four Houses: Crick, Parker, Storrs and Whiston. All pupils will have close relationships with their House Tutor, who monitor academic progress and co-curricular involvement, and support their general well-being.

The close-knit and caring atmosphere of the School ensures that a pupil’s individual needs and concerns are identified early and responded to quickly and effectively.

Tracking Progress at King’s

At the start of Remove (Year 9), Lower Fifth (Year 10) and Lower Sixth (Year 12) pupils take externally assessed tests managed by Cambridge University Press and Assessment. From these assessments, challenge grades for each subject are generated. A challenge grade is usually one grade higher than those generated by CEM but adapted with our knowledge of each pupil. Pupils are then tracked against these grades with assessment grades at half termly intervals.

GCSE

Pupils are supported through their GCSE years with excellent teaching and small class sizes.

Pupils at King’s have achieved excellent results, and this is due to a number of linked but important factors.

Firstly, the commitment and focus of the pupils themselves is tremendous, and this has been supported by exceptional teaching delivered in small classes of approximately fifteen pupils.

Furthermore, we believe our enhanced curriculum has enabled us to create a stimulating and bespoke learning programme - one of the advantages of being an independent school.

We offer a broad range of subjects at GCSE and IGCSE, balanced with a wide complement of co-curricular activities. Subjects taken by all pupils are: English Language, English Literature, Mathematics, Religious Studies and Science (Dual or Triple Award). Pupils are then able to choose from a range of other subjects including: Art and Design, Classical Civilisation, Computer Science, Design and Technology, Drama, French, Geography, German, History, Latin, Music, Physical Education, Religious Studies and Spanish.

Prep. (Homework) at King's

In the Senior School, homework is used to consolidate work done in class, prepare for lessons, develop independent learning and facilitate individual enquiry and research. In Remove (Year 9), pupils usually have two 40-minute homeworks an evening. In the Fifth Form this increases to three 40-minute homeworks a night. Sixth Formers are expected to be responsible for planning their own workschedules and to meet deadlines. As a guide, they should spend one hour a day in individual study per subject in addition to timetabled lessons or supervised study periods.

A LEVEL

Sixth Form gives pupils the freedom and confidence to shape their own paths.

This is a tremendously stimulating time as pupils are given the freedom to pursue their own specialisms and experience various enrichment activities. Sixth Formers enjoy much smaller study groups, and develop supportive and mature relationships with their teachers and peers.

At King’s, we don’t have option blocks, meaning that pupils are completely free to choose all their subjects, provided they submit their options within our deadlines.

Sixth Formers are expected to undertake a minimum of three subjects at A Level, while also having the option to explore a selection of electives, including beginners’ Mandarin and LAMDA public speaking, allowing them to cultivate broader interests and skills. Additionally there is the option to take the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) which is viewed favourably by the top universities.

Our A Level curriculum encompasses a wide range of subjects, including Art and Design, Biology, Chemistry, Classical Civilisation,

Computer Science, Design and Technology, Drama and Theatre, Economics, English Literature, Mathematics, Further Mathematics, French, Geography, History, Latin, Music, Psychology, Physics, Religious Studies, Sociology and Spanish. We also offer BTEC Physical Education. International pupils are encouraged to take A Level examinations in their native language.

To foster independent learning, Sixth Formers have access to dedicated study periods in the Sixth Form Centre or Library. The Sixth Form Centre is equipped with a study area and amenities for preparing hot drinks and snacks during break and lunchtime.

Academic progress of our Sixth Form pupils is closely monitored, with a strategic focus on supporting their journey towards UCAS applications, apprenticeships, and career planning, enabling them to prepare for their future in the professional world.

ART & DESIGN

Art and Design in the Senior School is stimulating and challenging for pupils.

Pupils in both the Preparatory and Senior Schools are taught by the same dedicated Art and Design specialist teachers in one purpose-built building.

This provides tremendous continuity in which pupils in the younger years are taught precisely the skills and understanding that they will need to strive for in the Senior School.

For GCSE, pupils are taught as creative individuals who will begin to pursue their own ideas and interests in the subject rather than be taught as a class unit. By the time pupils arrive in the Sixth Form, teachers will facilitate individual creativity that is relevant to them, rather than direct the narrative. This approach helps pupils become individual learners and foster succession into higher education and beyond.

Scholarships at King’s School Rochester

Across music, art, drama, sport and academic, we offer scholarships to those who demonstrate particular skill and ability. Scholarships are awarded typically to both internal and external candidates. Further information on scholarships is available on our website, within the Admissions section, or please contact our Admissions Team.

MUSIC

Music is woven into the fabric of our School and we are proud to say “we are a school that sings”.

At King’s we make music together. We sing as a whole school nearly every day and music resonates not only in individual lessons but also within our various bands and ensembles. The breadth of musical opportunity is vast, with a diverse range of ensembles and events throughout the year for pupils to showcase their talents.

Our team of 22 instrumental teachers provides instruction for almost all instruments. Each year many of our Upper Sixth leavers depart with a deep appreciation for singing and making music with their peers. A talented few leave to study music at our most prestigious conservatoires, studying voice, composition or their individual orchestral instrument.

Pupils enjoy creative freedom and flexibility within their subject and are encouraged to follow individual musical paths. We hold regular Scholars’ Concerts and travel to perform in London and across the country.

In addition to our strong classical music tradition, we host a lively series of Open Mic Nights and informal concerts. House Music competitions involve all pupils and stand out as one of the most enjoyable and vibrant events of the year.

SPORT

Sport at King’s is for everyone, regardless of ability or experience.

Playing a prominent role in everyday school life, sport provides countless opportunities for pupils to build their confidence, take care of their physical and mental health, and develop their team skills. King’s offers an ever-growing list of sports and activities to choose from. Pupils in the Senior School enjoy four hours of timetabled games lessons each week. At A Level, pupils can opt to participate in alternative sports in addition to regular team games.

We also offer expert ‘strength and conditioning’ coaching and mentoring through a Sports Scholarship Programme, which supports athletic development and target setting for our most talented athletes. An ‘emerging athletes programme’ is also offered to some pupils in Remove (Year 9) and Lower Fifth (Year 10) to help them further develop and reach their potential in a range of sports.

DRAMA

We are proud of our reputation for exceptional drama performance - from musicals through to Shakespeare.

Drama is focused around integration with real world industry and aims to equip pupils with the creative and communication skills so vital in many careers.

With links to professional theatres in London’s West End and major drama conservatoires, King’s School alumni have successfully ventured into the professional theatre world, both on stage and behind the scenes.

Our Theatre Production Team help create all the elements required by our major school productions, which often boast casts of 70+ ensuring that everyone who wants to, can take part.

LAMDA Acting and Public speaking coaching and examination are offered to develop skills in performance and public speaking. We have a tailored scholarship programme including support and guidance for pupils interested in auditioning for the National Youth Theatre.

Friday Afternoon ACTIVITIES

On Friday afternoons Senior pupils experience co-curricular activities to build leadership skills and teamwork.

Combined Cadet Force (All Senior Pupils)

Senior pupils can choose to join our School’s CCF (Combined Cadet Force), which delivers the cadet experience across all three contingents (Royal Navy, Army and Royal Airforce). The CCF is a youth organisation sponsored by the Ministry of Defence, which offers pupils the opportunity to grow their skills in leadership, discipline, motivation, selfawareness and perseverance. The programme comprises a wide range of activities, including Adventure Training, Leadership Training and Single Service Subjects (Afloat, Flying, Field Craft and Shooting), all of which are delivered by specialist military and civilian instructors.

Theatre Production Company (All Senior Pupils)

The Theatre Production Company assists with the delivery of school productions and events, and is a valuable opportunity for pupils wishing to learn the practical disciplines needed for this area of work. Theatre Production offers broad, practical training in all areas that contribute to making a theatre production, including lighting, sound, set painting, sourcing and making props and costumes, puppetry, hair, makeup and stage management. The programme of activities is dependent on the performances taking place across the school, creating a varied and exciting experience for our pupils.

Music (All Music Scholars)

Our Music Scholars are offered a great opportunity to become part of a small group helping the local community. Pupils work with our Director of Music to run fun and engaging workshops in local primary schools, along with playing in different settings to support school marketing activities and local community events.

Enrichment Programme (Upper Fifth / Year 11 only)

The Enrichment Programme is designed to give pupils a range of “Life Skills” through various activities including cooking, sewing, DIY, selfdefence, and budgeting for life beyond school. They are also encouraged to uncover their entrepreneurial skills when completing mini enterprise projects. Pupils cultivate their selfawareness and interpersonal skills. Additional activities such as self-defence, first aid, poolside rescue and climbing are also available.

Volunteering (Lower Sixth / Year 12 only)

Pupils may choose to volunteer both within the School and in the local community. A range of activities is available including supporting a reading programme in a local primary school, mentoring Pre-Preparatory and Preparatory School pupils, or coaching swimming and rugby. Volunteering provides a fantastic opportunity for pupils to learn the importance of supporting others and giving back to their local community. Pupils are both allowed and encouraged to seek out their own placements if they have a particular volunteering opportunity they wish to pursue.

Strength and Conditioning (Upper Fifth and Lower Sixth Sports Scholars)

Sports Scholars participate in additional Strength and Conditioning training sessions on Friday afternoons. These sessions are conducted by specialist coaches who possess a deep understanding of the specific needs and requirements for each sport and the various age groups. Scholars also have the opportunity to get involved in coaching and umpiring at Sports Festivals.

Co-curricular CLUBS & ACTIVITIES

In addition to our Friday afternoon curriculum, there are lots of other clubs and activities for pupils to get involved in.

It is our core belief that our pupils learn just as much outside of the classroom as they do inside. Pupils in the Senior School can enjoy a range of clubs and activities, such as Chess, Astronomy, Debating, eSports, Medieval Society, Art and Design, Choir, Jazz, each taking place during lunchtime, after school or over the weekend.

This is further enhanced by a range of regular trips both abroad and closer to home, which help to broaden our pupils’ horizons and understanding of the world around them. Details of the current up-to-date co-curricular offerings and trips are emailed to parents on a termly basis.

Pupils also have the opportunity to take part in all three levels of The Duke of Edinburgh Award, a fantastic programme of activities and challenges designed to develop essential skills for life and work, such as resilience, problem-solving, team-working, communication and drive. Taking part in the The Duke of Edinburgh Award is a life-changing experience, and a great opportunity to build friendships and discover new talents and interests. A recognised mark of achievement, The Duke of Edinburgh Award enhances pupils’ future CVs and university applications.

It is our core belief that our pupils learn just as much outside of the classroom as they do inside.

BOARDING

Boarding at King’s School Rochester is a true home-from-home experience.

Our boarding community is small enough so that it has a real family-like atmosphere, where everyone knows one another and feels supported and cared for. At King’s we offer a range of boarding options to suit every family’s needs, from full time to flexi boarding. We welcome both domestic and international pupils from Year 7 through to Sixth Form into our two boarding houses: School House for boys, and St Margaret’s House for girls.

Rooms in both boarding houses are light and airy with modern furnishings, and equipped with the latest high-speed, age-appropriately filtered Wi-Fi, meaning that a video call home or quick online game with friends is always an enjoyable experience. Depending on the age-group, boarders have access to either an en-suite or communal bathroom close by.

Both boarding houses have shared common areas that include facilities for making food and playing games, from relaxed card games to console thrillers. There are many opportunities for making friends and enjoying each other’s company.

Due to the School’s location at the heart of historic Rochester, our boarders have access to lots of independent shops nearby and other local amenities like a commercial gym and sports clubs. Older boarders can make use of the high-speed rail connection, linking Rochester to London in just over half an hour.

Our very own Italian chef serves bespoke two course meals with a wide variety of salads at lunch and dinner. The two boarding houses come together every evening for a shared dining experience, a highlight of the school day, where pupils and staff share a delicious meal and catch-up on the day’s events.

Each boarder is supported upon arrival with a bespoke induction and familiarisation programme. For international pupils, this includes sessions on British culture and how to excel in a UK classroom setting.

Each House has several staff members on hand including a Head of House, Tutors and a Houseparent to ensure that pastoral support is available 24/7 so that every King’s boarding pupil has a happy and exciting boarding experience.

BEYOND KING’S

Pupils leave King’s having fulfilled their academic potential and experienced a brilliant life-changing education.

Our pupils are our greatest ambassadors. Their quiet confidence and self-belief gives them the courage to engage with the world and pursue their dreams, whatever they may be. Pupils also leave as kind, compassionate and caring individuals, ready to make their mark.

Sixth Formers often secure places at top Russell Group or Oxbridge universities, whilst others undertake apprenticeships, or join music or drama conservatoires. Whatever their destination, we are immensely proud of each individual’s journey and progress during their time at our School. It is this progress and sense of personal achievement and happiness that we focus on and celebrate.

A School For Life

The King’s community provides pupils with a valuable alumni network of contacts that will enrich and further their respective careers, along with providing a wealth of knowledge, experience and mentoring. As members of the Old Roffensian Society, our pupils will always have the option to remain connected to King’s and our Old Roffensians to support them in future career decisions, along with reunions and school events to remind them of the special place they are part of.

FURTHER INFORMATION

We work with families to ensure that the admissions process supports you and your child every step along the way.

To find out more information or to schedule a visit to the School, please contact us on +44 (0) 1634 888590, or email admissions@kings-rochester.co.uk

Visit Us

The best way to get a real sense of our School is to visit us. We offer private tours and taster days during term time and hold two whole school Open Mornings each year.

School Fees

Fees are charged in advance and reviewed annually, with additional charges kept to a minimum. Further information about fees and charges are available on our website within the Admissions section.

Scholarships

King’s School Rochester is pleased to offer a range of scholarships in both the Preparatory School and Senior School to internal and external pupils in Year 7, Year 9 and Year 12. Pupils with a proven talent in sport, music, drama, art or academic attainment are encouraged to apply.

Bursaries

We offer means-tested financial support to pupils who otherwise would be unable to attend. Bursaries may be offered in addition to the award of a scholarship to increase the value of the award.

Our School Day

For more information on admissions, fees, scholarships, bursaries and term dates, scan the QR code...

Parking

Due to the central and historic location of our School, there is very limited parking during drop off and pick up. Instead, if you are arriving by car, there are numerous car parks nearby which can be found at en.parkopedia.co.uk.

Come and experience our School for yourself. Meet our pupils, talk with our staff, and feel the welcoming and inspiring atmosphere that makes King’s School Rochester so unique.