King's School Rochester - Core Prospectus

KING’S SCHOOL ROCHESTER

A SCHOOL FOR life

Welcome from THE PRINCIPAL

King’s is a remarkable school with a rich and diverse heritage, where pupils have been educated for over 1,400 years under the watchful gaze of Rochester Cathedral and Rochester Castle.

Whilst a sense of place is bound to have an impact on the development of our pupils learning here, we believe in preparing them for the 21st century through educating the whole child. It is the skills, experiences and opportunities both inside and outside the classroom that will enable them to thrive in, and make a difference to, a fast-changing and globalised world.

Our core values of Happiness, Endeavour, Aspiration, Roundedness and Teamwork (the HEART of King’s) provide a framework around which individual pupils are nurtured and empowered to explore their passions, whilst developing an inner confidence and a deep sense of community.

With a warmth of welcome guaranteed, the best way to experience all that we have on offer here at King’s is to come and visit us. With over a thousand years of experience and a world of potential ahead, you will discover that King’s School Rochester is truly a School for Life.

OUR SCHOOL

At King’s School Rochester, we proudly proclaim to be a ‘School for Life’ dedicated to nurturing and preparing pupils not just for exams, but for the lifelong pursuit of knowledge, character development and personal growth.

King’s is an exceptionally warm and caring learning environment. We nurture the individual and celebrate diversity of talent - there truly is no typical King’s pupil. Each and every one is unique, and is treated as such.

With a rich heritage as our foundation, we provide a dynamic and forward thinking environment where pupils embark on a transformative journey that equips them with the skills, values, and resilience they need to excel in the ever-evolving landscape of life beyond our walls.

Welcome to a place where learning transcends the classroom and becomes an enduring companion throughout life’s remarkable journey.

Exceptionally warm and caring.

- The Good Schools Guide

Whilst we may be the second oldest school in the world, our vision is modern and resolutely forward-looking.

HISTORIC & TIMELESS

Steeped in history and surrounded by breath-taking heritage, King’s School Rochester has moved with the times for over 1,400 years.

Our School lies in the shadow of Rochester Castle, nestled within the Cathedral precinct. Countless pupils have passed through the School over the centuries, leaving their mark and creating a tangible sense of history. With our one-of-a-kind setting, our pupils understand what has gone before them and consequently their role in shaping the future. Whilst we may be the second oldest school in the world and the oldest Cathedral Choir School, our vision is modern and resolutely forward-looking.

Our pupils are given the mindset, knowledge and self-belief they need to step out, flourish, and emblazon their own positive mark on the world.

MAJESTIC & WELCOMING

From Nursery all the way through to the Sixth Form, our School is a home from home, and provides a safe and nurturing environment in which our children grow and develop as part of a supportive community.

The best kind of learning environment is a happy one which inspires and provides both the mental and physical space for development. Our majestic Cathedral and grounds are tranquil spaces to learn and live, setting the tone for an enjoyable school life. Happiness and well-being are key to our School’s success, enabling individuals to thrive. Whether boarding or day, each pupil belongs to a House, which provides a sense of security, friendship and belonging.

We promote close and supportive relationships between parents, children and teachers, ensuring a seamless educational experience is created, with strong links between home and school. Our pupils’ parents or guardians are an integral cog in the success of the School, and we encourage parents to be as involved as possible in school life.

Our mantra is ‘work hard, play hard and look after each other’.

HISTORIC ROCHESTER

King’s School Rochester finds itself situated in the heart of the historic town, nestled amongst cobbled medieval streets under the shadow of the Cathedral.

Our location in Rochester is an integral part of school life.

A stone’s throw from the beating heart of London, inhabitants of Rochester enjoy rolling countryside hills in one direction, and beautiful seaside in the other. The town is just over half an hour’s train journey away from St Pancras International and easily accessible from Kent and the southeast. This gives our pupils the best of both worlds – a wealth of bustling culture on their doorstep, combined with the peace of living in a picturesque country town.

The busy high street, filled with independent businesses and a burgeoning arts scene, means our town is the perfect location to learn, develop and grow. Situated on the banks of the River Medway, Rochester is full of charm and intrigue.

AMBITIOUS & GROUNDED

We foster a sense of ambition in all our pupils, encouraging lifelong passions that set our young people on the path to a fulfilling future.

We celebrate everyone’s achievements in all their different guises, and appreciate that every child is unique. Our academic philosophy promotes the individual as a truly grounded and well-rounded person, rather than a narrow specialist. We encourage our pupils to aim high and try their best in everything that they do, both inside and outside the classroom.

Our young people understand that as a global community, it is better when everyone succeeds, not just a privileged few. We want our pupils to not only make sense of the world, but to go out into it and make a positive difference. With this in mind, we equip our young people with an understanding of supporting the community around them.

We give our pupils the skills to succeed and thrive both independently and as part of a team.

Our most recent ISI (Independent Schools Inspectorate) report rated us ‘Excellent’ in all areas.

TEACHING & LEARNING

Our broad, creative and rich curriculum is geared towards educating the whole child, the goal of which is preparing them for the outside world.

Our aim is to instil in our pupils a passion for learning, a questioning mind, and the ability to think as individuals. We give our pupils the skills to succeed and thrive both independently and as part of a team. We encourage our young people to remain as broad as possible across the academic spectrum, ensuring they retain a wide academic outlook.

We are proud recipients of an ‘Excellent’ rating from the Independent Schools Inspectorate, a testament to our efforts to deliver an outstanding education. We tailor our teaching to the individual, with class sizes kept small to enable a personalised experience. Our teachers are subject specialists, with many having real world experience within their given subject field, and their enthusiasm is infectious.

Digital learning is integrated throughout our curriculum and we employ up-to-date educational practices, involving the use of technology in all year groups.

Pupils use a variety of digital tools to support, engage and extend their learning including Apple, Google Classroom, See Saw and Microsoft Learning tools. Pupils have weekly digital learning lessons to cement their skills as digital citizens of the 21st century.

ART & DESIGN

From expressive doodles in Nursery through to large contemporary pieces in the Sixth Form, our pupils are encouraged to dream big and unlock their creative potential.

The Art and Design department at King’s is a hub of creativity and imagination. Our purpose-built creative studio ensures our pupils enjoy plenty of space and natural light for their latest creations.

Over time our pupils are introduced to a wide range of techniques and media, working across a variety of interesting briefs and projects. The department doesn’t restrict itself to the prescribed parameters of the National Curriculum, affording pupils a greater creative freedom and enabling a deeper understanding of the arts.

We never underestimate the creative potential of our children, and we have high expectations for all. We teach the technical skill of drawing and observation, to improve our pupils’ artistic styleevery child has an inner artist! The success of art and design at King’s is celebrated all year round, with displays of our pupils’ work throughout the School.

MUSIC

Music has been central to our School since 604AD, when it was originally founded to educate the very first choristers. Today, some pupils still come to King’s to be Cathedral Choristers and enjoy this rare and ancient privilege.

Our full musical offering is wide and varied. We cater for everyone, including those who want to pursue a serious career in music and individuals who simply enjoy playing and singing. Our pupils play in county and national orchestras and many have gone on to study at leading conservatoires.

We offer a wide range of ensembles including choir, orchestra, jazz, wind and rock bands, along with a dazzling programme of regular open-mic nights and annual house music productions. There’s no limit to the musical ambition at King’s School Rochester and we actively encourage everyone to get involved. Musical expression truly serves as the soundtrack to life at King’s.

Music is a cornerstone of our School, with countless opportunities for pupils of all abilities to get involved.

DRAMA

King’s School Rochester has a reputation for exceptional drama - from musicals through to Shakespeare.

Creativity, empathy and critical thinking lie at the heart of the work of the Drama department. We encourage pupils to harness the power of their imagination and learn the art of self-expression.

From Year 4, pupils enjoy drama lessons in our fully equipped performance facilities, with the option of performing and working backstage in both Preparatory and Senior School productions. Academic and co-curricular drama are closely integrated, providing exciting opportunities to explore the subject beyond the core curriculum.

From Remove (Year 9), pupils are invited to participate in the Theatre Production Company, which meets once a week to help produce our school performances.

Support for those wishing to develop their performance skills is offered through a tailored scholarship programme and through LAMDA coaching.

At all levels pupils are encouraged to expand their skill sets and take their craft to the next level.

Every production is produced to the highest quality possible, drawing on our links with the industry to bring West End standards to King’s.

The highlight of the school year are the Preparatory and Senior School productions – large in scale and ambition, often complex in nature and always looking to push the boundaries of what is possible.

A full production can often have over 100 pupils involved – working on stage, behind the scenes and front of house. Pupils learn invaluable life lessons as our ambitions to be the best combine with their collective creativity and hard work – generating magical performances that live long in the memory of those who came to watch.

SPORT

Sport plays a prominent role in everyday school life, providing opportunities for pupils to build their confidence, take care of their physical and mental health, and to develop their team skills.

All the way through the School, pupils enjoy excellent coaching and support from specialist sports’ staff. Children in our Pre-Preparatory School enjoy indoor and outdoor sporting activities, along with swimming lessons with specialist teachers. Pupils from the Preparatory School upwards have four hours of timetabled lessons each week, with many opportunities to compete and represent King’s against other schools.

Our approach to sport at King’s is that sport is for everyone, regardless of ability or experience – having fun and making progress is what we value. We offer an ever-growing list of sports and activities, and provide our pupils with extensive training facilities.

The King’s Rochester Sports Centre caters for the needs of our athletes, comprising a large gymnasium, LTA tennis courts and a fitness suite. This compliments our existing playing fields, heated indoor swimming pool and boat house situated on the banks of the River Medway. Topping it all off is our Paddock, the jewel in our crown, which is regarded as one of the finest cricket fields in the county.

For our most talented and committed pupils, we offer a Sports Scholarship Programme which provides expert strength and conditioning coaching, as well as mentoring for those wishing to further develop their talent. We have an Emerging Athlete Programme, which supports the most committed sportsmen and women who will benefit from additional support in the form of athletic development and target setting, to help them achieve their potential in future years.

We look out for each other with a sense of collective spirit and camaraderie.

CONFIDENT & KIND

It is our belief that we are one big family, in which we look out for each other with a sense of collective spirit and camaraderie. We teach our pupils to be thoughtful, outward-looking and compassionate individuals. A collective kindness creates a nurturing and empowering environment fostering confident pupils keen to explore, learn and grow.

Our unashamedly Christian ethos, reinforced by the presence of the Cathedral in our day to day lives, promotes kindness and the importance of always thinking of others. Whilst we acknowledge our commitment to our historic traditions as a Christian foundation, we warmly welcome the diversity and breadth of spirituality in a 21st century environment. By honouring individual faith and expression, our School is a community which celebrates the exploration of ethical, moral and philosophical ideas.

King’s School Rochester is an inclusive school, in which every individual is supported and respected. We encourage our pupils to be as confident and kind as possible.

CO-CURRICULAR

We consider participation in clubs and activities an integral part of the King’s experience. From Reception (4+) through to Sixth Form, there is an extensive range of co-curricular pursuits from which to choose, taking place during lunchtime, after school and at the weekend. We also offer a range of trips both in the UK and abroad to extend our pupils’ horizons.

In addition to our comprehensive sport, music, drama and arts programmes, we offer an impressive range of activities centring around personal development. In the Senior School, there is a scheduled co-curriculum programme every Friday afternoon, which includes the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), the Theatre Production Company, volunteering and an Enrichment Programme.

Our CCF supports Senior School pupils to grow in terms of self-discipline, self-awareness and motivation, and we offer all three contingents (Air Force, Navy and Army) to our pupils.

Our specialist military and civilian instructors deliver leadership training, field exercises and bush craft to name a few. The CCF develops young people for any future path they choose, not just a military one.

The Theatre Production Company helps pupils develop a wide range of skills required to run a show, including costume, lighting, sound design and stage management. Pupils can also opt into an Enrichment Programme, developing life skills such as cooking, car maintenance and poolside rescue. Our volunteering programme includes both internal and external opportunities to support the local community, including a reading programme in local primary schools.

We also offer The Duke of Edinburgh Award, a life changing, fun experience where our pupils have an opportunity to discover new interests and talents outside of their normal friendship groups.

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

A PUPIL’S journey

Every step of the King’s School Rochester journey, from Nursery to Sixth Form and beyond, is designed to help pupils flourish, grow in confidence and discover new passions. Many of our specialist teachers teach across the whole school to ensure smooth transitions through each stage of the journey.

NURSERY

AGES 3-4

With an ‘Excellent’ ISI inspection rating, our Nursery provides a loving, caring and stimulating environment for your child’s first steps into the world.

Situated within the walled school grounds, the Nursery is an airy, bright space to learn and play. Pupils are welcomed by the Head everyday, and quickly settle into the Nursery environment, enjoying a happy, positive start to their educational journey.

With a high ratio of staff, pupils are taught to be kind, resilient, enquiring and confident. Social skills are developed through learning and participating in activities as a team, in tandem with pupils being encouraged to learn independence – be it putting on a coat or pouring a drink.

PRE-PREPARATORY SCHOOL

AGES 4-8

The Pre-Preparatory School experience at King’s is geared towards nurturing a strong love of learning.

We pride ourselves on the level of individual care and attention we give each child, enabling them to have a happy and memorable start to their educational journey. Our pupils come through the door each morning beaming and leave with the same smile at the end of the day.

Enjoying an ‘Excellent’ ISI inspection rating, pupils in the Pre-Preparatory School benefit from learning in a well-resourced, bright and vibrant building and play area. Small class sizes offer a supportive and stimulating environment for learning and specialist teachers deliver our games, music and swimming lessons. French is taught from Reception as at this prime age, children take to the language quickly, benefiting their development and providing exposure to a whole new culture.

We recognise the importance of emotional, social and intellectual development, and so our School develops confident, inquisitive learners with an appreciation for the world around them. We encourage our pupils to involve themselves in as many co-curricular, sporting and creative activities as possible and offer a broad range of clubs.

PREPARATORY SCHOOL

AGES 8-13

Judged as ‘Excellent’ by our latest ISI report, the Preparatory School at King’s is a stimulating, nurturing and exciting environment. Children develop as well-rounded individuals, discovering their talents and passions whilst embracing all that life has to offer.

During their time in our Preparatory School, we encourage our pupils to be enquiring, ambitious and conscientious. In a fast-changing and sometimes challenging world, it is important to maintain a sense of purpose and self-awareness.

We teach our pupils the importance of charting their own course, and the value of discovering their inner passions. Small class sizes are maintained to ensure bespoke, tailored teaching with plenty of individual attention.

Our broad academic curriculum is balanced with sporting, musical and creative arts opportunities. This ensures an all-round education and our pupils develop important skills such as communication, teamwork and leadership.

Our Preparatory School is large enough to offer a full suite of facilities, yet small enough to maintain the caring atmosphere that typifies the King’s School Rochester experience.

SENIOR SCHOOL

AGES 13-16

Senior School at King’s is an environment in which individuals flourish.

We challenge and support our pupils to help them realise their academic potential, whilst providing them the space to grow and develop as young adults within a nurturing community.

As recognised by our ‘Excellent’ ISI inspection rating, pupils achieve outstanding results by developing an enquiring mind and a strong passion for learning. Together with small class sizes, our pupils’ academic progression is complimented by skills and interests that are nurtured beyond the classroom, with plenty of co-curricular activities and opportunities in which to grow.

The aim of our Senior School is to ignite interests and extend the intellect of every pupil, whatever their strengths may be. What matters is that they gain the necessary foundation for an enriched, healthy and fulfilling life, along with sufficient breadth of skills and experiences to enable them to make informed choices on future career paths.

Our pupils in the Senior School develop compassion and regard for others, and learn to have the strength of character that will best enable them to play their part as valuable members of society.

SIXTH FORM

AGES 16-18

The Sixth Form at King’s School Rochester is where the foundations are built for each individual to have an extraordinary career.

Pupils are given the freedom and guidance to pursue their own specialisms and explore what destinations they wish to aim for. A level study at King’s has far smaller study groups and a much more mature relationship with teachers and peers.

Crucial skills, such as time management and organisation, are developed during these two years, with pupils having a greater responsibility to manage independent study and personal workloads.

We also foster the development of practical competences, for instance leadership and team working, as preparation for the world beyond A Level.

We encourage our pupils to focus their studies upon three or four A Level subjects, plus the option of the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) which greatly improves their opportunities with the best universities.

As Sixth Form is an intense two years, we ensure that our pupils are well supported so that they can make the most of their final chapter at King’s. In the Lower Sixth, our pupils cultivate broader interests and skills through a program of electives, including subjects such as public speaking and beginners’ Mandarin. In the Upper Sixth, there is a strategic focus on UCAS applications, apprenticeships and career planning.

We are one family, where every individual is celebrated and cherished.

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 family-like feel, where everyone knows one another and is treated as an individual. King’s welcomes both UK and international pupils from Year 7 through to Sixth Form.

We offer a range of flexible boarding options to suit everyone’s individual needs and have two boarding houses: School House for the boys and St Margaret’s House for the girls.

Upon arrival, every boarder goes through an induction and familiarisation programme to help them feel settled and at home as quickly as possible. We want to ensure that our pupils’ boarding experience is an exciting and happy one, so pastoral support is always on hand 24/7 from the Housemaster or mistress, Tutors and Houseparent.

Each boarding house has a common room, study rooms, music practice rooms and a fully stocked kitchen. In addition, all rooms are equipped with the latest high-speed, age-appropriately filtered Wi-Fi, meaning that a video call home is always an enjoyable experience. Bespoke, two course meals are served every dinner time cooked by our own Italian chef, with communal dining between both boarding houses - a highlight of the school day where all our boarders come together with teachers for a delicious meal.

All boarders enjoy weekend trips and activities to encourage social interaction and to ensure that our boarders make the most of the cultural experiences on offer to them.

A SCHOOL FOR life

We instil in our pupils the practical knowledge and skills that will see them through the rest of their education and future careers.

At the end of their time at King’s, our pupils leave as well-rounded young adults, who go on to flourish and thrive in whichever path they take. Many Sixth Formers from King’s go on to secure places to study at top Russell Group or Oxbridge universities, whilst others undertake apprenticeships, or join national music colleges.

Whatever their destination, we are immensely proud of each individual’s journey and progress during their time at our School.

Old Roffensians

Our long established Old Roffensian Society allows past leavers to stay in contact with their contemporaries and participate in events and functions within the wider King’s network. Alumni often return to mentor current pupils, give career advice and offer work experience placements.

The King’s community extends past our School walls, even beyond our locality in the South East, providing pupils with a valuable network of contacts that will enrich and further their respective careers, in many cases giving them that crucial ‘foot-in-the-door’.

Even when our pupils officially leave King’s, they are still part of our story.

ADMISSIONS

At King’s, we welcome children at all stages from Nursery (3+) to Lower Sixth (Year 12) provided there are places available.

To find out more information about our admissions process, 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 the School is to visit us. We offer private tours and taster days during term time and hold two whole school open mornings each year.

Guests are also welcome to all our concerts and drama performances, including those in Rochester Cathedral.

Schools Fees

Fees are charged in advance. School fees are reviewed annually, and additional charges are kept to a minimum. Further information about fees and charges are available on our website under our 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, Remove (Year 9) and Lower Sixth (Year 12) Pupils with a proven talent in sport, music, drama, art or academic attainment are encouraged to apply.

Bursaries

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

Safeguarding

The well-being of all pupils at King’s School Rochester is our highest priority. The School aims to provide a secure and caring environment so that every pupil can learn and undertake education activities safely. More information on our safeguarding policies can be found on our website.

International Links and Transport

King’s School Rochester benefits from excellent transport links to London and beyond, perfect for international pupils. Rochester Train Station is conveniently located less than a 10 minute walk, or a short taxi ride from the School.

Our connections to London and international terminals are as follows:

• London St Pancras International 38 mins

• London Victoria 45 mins

• Bromley South 28 mins

• Ebbsfleet International 18 mins

• Gatwick Airport (via London Victoria) 90 mins

• Heathrow Airport (via London Victoria and tube or Heathrow Express) 1h 45mins.

At King’s School Rochester, we work with families to ensure that the admissions process supports you and your child every step along the way.

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.