Years 8 – 12
The King’s School is a Christian community that seeks to make an outstanding impact for the good of society through its students, and by the quality of its teaching and leadership in education.
THE KING’S SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT
Welcome
Welcome to The King’s School, Senior School. An exciting journey awaits our newest Kingsmen as they launch into the vast number of challenging opportunities that can help them mature into a man of confidence and character. Our vision at King’s is that boys will be transformed into quality young men who are ready to live lives of service in God’s amazing world.
The boys’ experience at King’s will be one of marvellous adventure. Our focus is that our boys will relish their time in the classroom to develop into Global Thought Leaders. They will also need to bring a healthy risk appetite to the School which will allow them to be challenged through our co-curricular program, and in the process, develop a strong character. All this will be achieved by being embraced by the King’s community through our House system, which provides a secure foundation to grow.
We are blessed to go about our lives on 320 acres of beautiful Australian landscape, with a variety of learning spaces and vast sporting facilities. Some boys and staff have the privilege of living onsite and we welcome our day community as they join us each day.
Our dedicated team of staff partner with the boys and their families in their learning and growth. We encourage our boys to take ownership of their learning as they discover their passions and interests.
I have no doubt that you will love King’s just as I do. It is my expectation that the boys’ time at King’s will not only prepare them for the future but will also remain one of the fondest memories of their lives.
Stephen Edwards
Rev Stephen Edwards Head of Senior School and Deputy Headmaster
Our Values
HUMILITY
We do not think more highly of ourselves than we ought. We are human and we share in the humanity of others. Being humble arises from our Christian belief that we are equal in the sight of God because we are all created in His image. Humility is a fundamentally Christian value and is the starting point for all our other values, for it is when we are humble that we are able to be honest about ourselves and with others.
BE HUMBLE
GRATITUDE
We celebrate with gratitude to God and each other. Gratitude is important in celebrating excellence in others, for keeping us humble and protects us from a spirit of complaint.
CELEBRATE
EXCELLENCE
We strive to be excellent for others and ourselves. We do this in order to make an outstanding impact for the good of society. Striving for excellence means seeking to improve and better ourselves; to be always growing. Our striving for excellence is that we may be excellent for the sake of others. Excellence begins with an attitude of Humility that enables us to be Honest with ourselves and each another, so that we might Respect each other, taking Responsibility for ourselves and each other, as a community of Integrity and Compassion.
STRIVE
We live to serve one another. Having compassion means caring for others, being kind and gentle. Compassion is stronger than sympathy or empathy; it is much more active and intentional. In a Christian sense, it is going out of one’s way to help others, to be generous towards others, to care for others and stand up for others. Compassion flows from our humility, honesty, respect, responsibility and integrity, and underpins our understanding of excellence.
HONESTY
We are honest about ourselves and with others. Honesty means being trustworthy, sincere and authentic. We are true to ourselves, and one another. We do not mislead or misrepresent each other. Honesty depends on an attitude of humility. It is when we are honest about ourselves and towards each other that we are able to respect one another.
BE HONEST
RESPECT
We respect one another and ourselves. Respect involves valuing people and property so that neither is dishonoured, and follows from our humility and honesty. We respect other’s beliefs and points of view. We do not bully or impose our will on others, whether in thought, word or deed. We do not gossip or spread rumours. Respect is important for being willing to take responsibility for ourselves and each other.
RESPONSIBILITY
We take responsibility for ourselves and each other. Responsibility means recognising that we share our lives with others in a shared world. Living and learning in community means taking responsibility for contributing positively and actively to our community and our world. Responsibility depends on our respect for ourselves and each other, and is essential for living lives of integrity. TAKE
INTEGRITY
We live our lives with integrity. To demonstrate integrity means to live a life that is integrated and balanced, cohesive and coherent. As a community of integrity, we are unified and work together for the common good. We are trustworthy and reliable, we follow through with conviction and courage. Integrity arises from our humility, honesty, respect and responsibility, and allows us to serve one another as a compassionate community.
DEMONSTRATE INTEGRITY
Contacts
Deputy Headmaster and Head of Senior School
Rev Stephen Edwards headofseniorschool@kings.edu.au 9683 8442
Deputy Head (Students & Community)
Mr Josh Hoogland joh@kings.edu.au 0455 098 243
School Sergeants
Mr Aaran Booth abooth@kings.edu.au 9683 8411
Health Centre
Senior Nurse: Mrs Kerry Milosevic healthcentre@kings.edu.au 9683 8409 Fax: 9683 8493
Senior Student Absentees
Mrs Megan Mansfield absentees@kings.edu.au 9683 8539
Community Engagement
Mrs Cassandra Salmon csalmon@kings.edu.au 9683 8650
Deputy Head (Academics)
Mrs Jackie Camilleri jyc@kings.edu.au 9683 8697
Deputy Head (Co-curricular)
Mr Wesley Dunne wdunne@kings.edu.au 9683 8562
ICT Services
servicedesk@kings.edu.au 9683 8690
School Chaplain
Rev Dr Jason Hobba jhobba@kings.edu.au 9683 8414
Main Reception and Transport Enquiries
Mrs Karen Austin kaustin@kings.edu.au 9683 8588
House:
Housemaster: Phone:
Mentor:
Email:
Introduction
History Of The King’s School
The King’s School, founded by the command of King William IV opened its doors on Monday, 13 February 1832 in rented premises (now known as Harrisford) near the wharves at the end of George Street, Parramatta. Three day boys, all under the age of 10, came on the first day, but by April, boarders were being accepted, and more came each year to supplement the income of the early Headmasters.
In January 1836, the Crown provided a school house and accommodation on land closer to Government House, but still on the river. This site was retained by the School for over 130 years until being vacated in August 1968.
The School Council did not gain an effective voice until 1885. From 1893 its governance of the School was monitored to some degree by some of its members, also being members of the Old Boys’ Union, which was founded in that year. Possibly the strongest overt influence exerted by that Union occurred in the years 1947 to 1949 when they successfully opposed the School Council’s decision to move to Wollongong. Faced then with the problem of finding a new site near Parramatta, the School community examined several before Gowan Brae came onto the market early in 1954. The purchase was completed quickly and the Prep School moved into the former residence of Sir James Burns at Gowan Brae in January 1955. Planning to build the Senior School proceeded through the 1950s and the property in Parramatta was sold and fundraising commenced. On 14 December 1960, Speech Day was held in a marquee at Gowan Brae and the Prime Minister, Sir Robert Menzies, unveiled the refounding tablet. Two years later, teaching commenced on the new site, with boarding houses being built as finance became available.
In 2017, Mr Tony George was inducted as the 20th Headmaster of The King’s School.
Location
Today, the School occupies more than 320 acres of unsurpassed natural environment close to the CBD of Parramatta at the demographic heart of Sydney. This environment gives boys space to move and play and offers the best of both rural and urban experiences in Australia’s largest cosmopolitan city.
School Arms
The School Motto is “Fortiter et Fideliter” which translates as “Bravely and Faithfully”. The “IX” in the centre of the shield represents the first letters of two ancient Greek words which stand for Jesus Christ. The colours on the arms are sky blue and white, with blue representing the sky and white representing purity.
Uniform
The School is proud of its unique uniform which dates back to the formation of The King’s School Cadet Corps in 1868. Boys are expected to wear the uniform properly so that the good reputation of the School is protected.
A checklist of relevant uniform, sport requirements and personal items is enclosed in the Newstarters Pack, together with advice regarding the purchase of uniform requirements.
Scholarships
A number of scholarships and means tested boarder bursaries are offered by the School with varying periods of tenure. Information on these Scholarships is available on the school website www.kings.edu.au or from the Registrar’s Office.
Chapel
Chapel services have been a core part of the life of The King’s School since it began in 1831. They are a central pillar to the way that King’s understands and expresses itself as a Christian community. Our Chapel services seek to set out the message of Jesus Christ and the values that flow from it—values encapsulated by our eight
School Values. In our Chapel services, our Chaplaincy team works hard to engage boys and to promote the spiritual, physical, emotional, and psychological flourishing of every boy. The Christian Community and values of King’s explored in our chapels foster a quality of relationships that lead to a quality of person in leadership and character development. Our quality of relationships and quality of person provide the context in which a quality of mind can flourish in Academic Excellence. Together, these three pillars of our approach at King’s work to produce Global Thought Leaders who seek to serve our community and our world.
The Memorial Chapel is the symbolic centre of our shared life as a Christian community. As a result, we aim to have each of our Senior Houses participate in at least one weekly Chapel service a term in our Memorial Chapel not only to engage with the Christian faith and heritage that is so central to King’s, but also to develop an ongoing and deep experience of our stunning Chapel. Each boarding house has additional Chapel services in the Memorial Chapel as part of their term routine. The Memorial Chapel was consecrated in 1889 with extensions in 1922 and dedicated as a memorial to those Old Boys who fell in World Wars I and II. After the School moved to its current site at Gowan Brae, the Chapel soon followed, stone by stone, and was completed in 1972. Our desire is that boys, as they graduate from King’s and become Old Boys, will see the Chapel as a place to reconnect with King’s and to join in those major life moments of weddings, baptisms, confirmations, and the very sensitive times of the loss of a loved one. Although students from all religious backgrounds are welcome at the School, it is hoped that the boys will expand their knowledge and appreciation of the Christian faith through our Chapel services.
Biblical Studies
Biblical Studies is part of every boy’s experience throughout their time at King’s. Years 7-8 Biblical Studies examines the foundational Christian story that underpins the School’s history, culture, and values
and how to put these values into effect in practical ways. Years 9-10 build on the previous years to explore how the events of the first Easter bring Christian communities into life and propel them on their journey throughout the centuries. These year groups probe the history of the Christian Church and the impact that Christianity has had on social and community issues. Year 10 also takes a preliminary look at four of the main world religions.
Years 11-12 have an even more practical look at the implications of the Christian faith on ethical decision-making. Year 11 investigates major ethical theories and Christian ethics. The year culminates in an ethical research project and class presentation on a current ethical issue. Year 12 extends further on this ethical application of the Christian faith in a more conversational forum. In addition, the Biblical Studies Department offers the NESA HSC Studies of Religion I and II Courses for Years 11-12.
School Rules And Conduct
The Student Code of Conduct can be found in the front of the School Diary and on the School website and should be read in detail. These rules are a guide only and are reviewed regularly. They are kept to the minimum necessary to fulfil the School’s responsibility as a guardian; to ensure the safety, welfare and happiness of all its members; and to make the essential arrangements for a community where students can flourish, and where each boy
has the opportunity to develop his own talents in an atmosphere of self-discipline and mutual respect.
The possession or use of alcohol, cigarettes, vapes, illegal drugs, pornography and firearms is forbidden.
The King’s School has a reputation as a safe and friendly school and does not tolerate bullying. Our comprehensive Anti-Bullying Policy is available on the School website.
Also available on our website are the following documents –
• Behaviour Management Plan
• Complaints and Grievances Resolution Procedure
• Anaphylaxis Policy
• Parent Code of Conduct
Health Centre
The Health Centre is available to members of the School community throughout the school year for the management of health issues and to assist with pastoral care. The Centre is staffed around the clock by a registered nurse during the school terms, and is the first port of call for all health issues at school. The Health Centre co-ordinates immunisation programs and other preventative measures e.g. flu shots.
In addition, services are provided by a GP/ sports doctor who visits the Health Centre most weekdays. As the doctor’s hours vary, it is sensible to contact the nursing
staff to organise appointments. For those with Medicare cards, the doctor is able to bulk bill for consultations and other services provided. The doctor is on call outside of scheduled clinic times to assist with urgent problems and emergencies.
The Health Centre is open from 7.00am – 10.00pm daily, and boys may present at any time during this period, though they are encouraged not to miss classes for non-urgent problems. Overnight (after 10.00pm), the boarders can access health care services by reporting to their Matron or Housemaster, who will contact the Duty Nurse when required. While it is hoped that your son will seldom require the use of the Health Centre, he will always be welcome to visit for care, friendly advice and appropriate treatment.
If your son is new to the School, the Medical Form is available on KingsNet and needs to be completed by you prior to his commencement at King’s. Parents should visit the School Health Centre at some stage on interview day to meet with the School nursing staff.
Health Centre Contact Details Telephone: 02 9683 8409 Facsimile: 02 9683 8493 Email: healthcentre@kings.edu.au
House Organisation
The Housemaster
Each house is overseen by a Housemaster who exercises a range of academic, pastoral, administrative and leadership roles within their House in order to ensure the wellbeing of the students.
House Managers
The Boarding Houses have a live-in weekday House Manager who is an integral part of the pastoral “family”. While their major responsibility lies in domestic affairs within the boarding house, they also provide that friendly ear listening to home news, social relationships, classroom issues and sporting achievements. In some Houses, the Manager may be the wife of the Housemaster.
House Staff
Day and Boarding Housemasters are assisted by a variety of staff who deal with such matters as pastoral care, health and wellbeing, academic issues, social outings and supervision. Attached to each Day House are Mentors who meet regularly with the students and guide them in both academic and pastoral matters. Mentor and Year Group meetings are held regularly. Boarding Housemasters are assisted by resident members of staff and a resident House Manager. Academic support in the boarding houses is provided by the Housemaster, the resident staff patrons and additional members of the teaching staff.
House Meetings
Day boys and boarders attend regular House meetings. These meetings provide an opportunity to recognise the achievements of boys in the House, provide a setting for performances and the display of work, give staff the opportunity to pass on information, and to remind boys of administrative arrangements.
Other Key Staff
Year Coordinators have oversight of Year groups across all three pillars. The Deans of Studies should be contacted about specific academic issues, patterns of study and subject choices.
Meals
Meals are served in the School’s Dining Hall. The food at The King’s School is of the highest standard, and boys are given a generous choice of offerings. Boarders must attend all meals, including breakfast, and day boys must attend lunch. Boys are also expected to observe the conventions of good table manners when eating in the dining room.
Boys must be neatly dressed in the appropriate version of the School uniform for all meals. It is expected that boys will treat Dining Hall staff with courtesy and respect.
The Dining Hall can cater for special dietary needs; please advise your Housemaster. Parents should also update their son’s student profile on KingsNet with any dietary requirements to ensure it is received by the catering manager.
Boarders are provided with fruit and other alternatives during the morning break. DAY BOY HOUSES
HOUSES
Britten Mrs Susan MacDonald
Burkitt Mr Jason Orellana
Dalmas Ms Kobe Perdriau
Kurrle Mr Christian Eatough
Macquarie Mr Wayne Edwards
Wickham Mrs Rebecca Gavan
Academic Life
Year Coordinators
The team of Year Coordinators will work both collectively with the Year Group and individually with boys to continue to develop the characteristics that students need to achieve their best, not only in the academic sphere of the School, but also to develop good relationships and achieve a balance in their lives. This will involve a program run in Year meetings and mentor time that will include study skills, leadership skills, opportunities to be involved in service-learning and well-being initiatives. Along with Housemasters, Mentors, Counsellors and co-curricular leaders –such as sport coaches, Year Coordinators are part of an important support network for students.
Daily Routine
The academic school day commences at 8.50am for all students. Day boys should arrive at School by 8.40am.
Musical ensembles practice after breakfast, before school every morning and at a variety of other times, as arranged. Mentor and Year Group meetings are held regularly – as are Assemblies and Chapel.
The daily routine for boarders in the Houses will vary from season to season, but boarders will rise at 6.45am and undertake prep (homework) each evening between 7.00 and 8.30pm, with the opportunity of a further study period later in the evening for Senior boys. The boys also have access to academic tutors and patrons during the week as well as on the weekends.
The School’s routine is an active one, and younger boys may initially be quite tired until they get used to the structure and activity.
The School Diary and Calendar
All students will be supplied with a School Diary and a Calendar. The Diary provides important day to day information, and is the common property of the student, the staff and parents. Accordingly, it serves as a very important communication strategy between the School, the Housemaster, the Year Coordinator and home. Parents, Mentors and staff are encouraged to write notes in the Diary and to inspect its contents regularly. Every student will be expected to have his School Diary at each lesson. Mentors inspect diaries as a matter of routine during their regular meetings with students.
Homework is to be recorded in the diary. The first section at the front of the diary comprises the School Rules. All new students should read this section and the School Values section.
The School’s rules act as a behavioural guide for all students. The very highest standards of conduct, courtesy and compassion are required of all students.
The King’s School has a rich and interesting history, and this is summarised in the diary. Boys and their parents are encouraged to know about, and take pride in aspects of the School’s past. The Robert Robertson Museum and the School’s Archivist are further sources available to the King’s community.
The School’s intranet “KingsNet” will provide parents, students and staff with news, important information and notifications. In accessing KingsNet families will be able to stay up to date with what is happening at King’s. It is expected all parents will access KingsNet, on a regular basis.
The 10 Day Cycle
The School operates a timetable over a ten-day cycle. The day of the cycle is indicated in the School Diary.
There are six academic periods in each day. Morning break is between periods 2 and 3. Lunch break is between periods 4 and 5.
Lunch is provided for all boys in the Dining Hall. Classes conclude at 3.30pm.
Sports practices are scheduled on two afternoons per week, from 3.50pm to 5.15pm, with GPS teams training before School.
Reports and Parent-Teacher Interviews
Your son’s Mentor is your primary contact point with the School for academic matters. Housemasters and Year Coordinators are also available to discuss pastoral and academic matters.
If you feel you have a serious concern, please telephone or email the Housemaster or Year Coordinator. Like you, we prefer to hear of concerns before they develop into major problems.
Parents of boys new to the School can expect a report summarising their son’s academic performance from the Mentor or Housemaster at the end of Term 1.
A full School Report is provided at the end of the Term 2. These reports contain a course description, performance outcomes, teacher comments, recommendations and, where appropriate, a cumulative assessment mark and rank. These reports also include a pastoral comment from Mentor and Housemaster.
Parents are encouraged to attend interviews with each of their son’s subject teachers during the year.
A full report is provided at the end of Term 3 for Years 11 and 12, and at the end of Term 4 for Years 7–10.
Educational Support Services
The School has an Educational Support Services Department (ESS), coordinated and taught by specialist learning support staff. ESS provides assistance to boys across all Year levels in a variety of ways that seek to develop students’ full academic, social and emotional potential in order to achieve their individual goals. This includes students who need to consolidate their literacy skills and students with English as a second language.
It is imperative that parents contact the ESS Department and/or the Year Coordinator if they have information that would assist the School to meet a student’s academic or pastoral needs.
Boys are taught in a structured learning environment that is both positive and rewarding. Students are assisted through teaching in differentiated classes or through support in the key subject areas by ESS staff.
Assistance with homework, assignments and assessments is also available for students who require extra support in the key subject areas. A Homework Club supervised by the ESS staff, is held in the CLL after school on Monday to Thursday for students to attend on their non-sport afternoons. ESS also runs handwriting classes before school for students who require extra tuition with their handwriting. Targeted literacy classes also run before school for selected students who require direct and explicit instruction in literacy skills.
If it is considered that a student requires remedial assistance, his teacher, Mentor or the Head of Educational Support Services will contact parents to discuss the matter.
Disability Provisions for examinations are also coordinated through the Educational Support Services Department. Parents should contact the Head of ESS, if their son requires Disability Provisions due to illness, learning difficulties or other matters.
In keeping with The King’s School Mission, Educational Support Services is pleased to introduce the Special Education Integration Program known as the ‘King’s Inclusive Education Program (KIEP)’.
Academic Enrichment and Extension
The School provides quality enriching learning experiences for all students including high potential and gifted learners through rigorous classroom and cocurriculum experiences. The program for high potential and gifted boys consists of various initiatives, including extension, acceleration and streaming.
As educators, the School’s prime concern is to allow students to discover their gifts and develop those gifts into talents. The King’s School acknowledges the wide range of areas of excellence students may exhibit and we strive to identify and direct those who are gifted in different academic domains.
A further focus area is the social and emotional wellbeing of the boys. At King’s, we have pastoral care systems to help all boys, including the gifted, with their differing developmental speeds, as they grow into young men.
Parents are encouraged to contact the the Head of Academic Enrichment and Extension, should they have information that indicates their son has particular gifts, or with any specific queries.
Information and Communication Technology
The King’s School is committed to the thoughtful and innovative integration of high quality face-to-face teaching with online digital practices to deliver a flexible and personalised learning experience for our students. The School’s Digital Learning Strategy ensures that our students have access to the very best educational resources to improve student learning experiences, both inside and outside of the classroom.
The School continues to invest in its ICT infrastructure to deliver a high level of services and support across our campuses:
• Canvas is the School’s Learning Management System and provides students with online access to academic classes.
• Box of Books is a digital textbook platform that integrates with Canvas, providing students with access to their complete suite of digital textbooks with the Canvas platform.
• At King’s, we have a comprehensive filtered wireless network covering all learning areas and Boarding Houses around the campus, including some outdoor areas. Two high speed internet connections with redundant firewalls and building-to-building fibre create fast and secure communication infrastructure.
• Student access to the School’s internet is filtered by next generation firewalls to ensure safe and secure access to the internet from School.
• The School provides students with access to Microsoft Office 365 and the Adobe Creative Cloud. In addition, students also have access to subject specific software as needed.
• Students are provided with a King’s email account via Office 365.
• Multi-function devices located in key areas of the campus provide students with advanced print, photocopy and scan facilities.
• Students also have access to a wide range of dedicated desktops and Citrix in Computing Studies and Industrial Arts and multimedia equipment including cameras, video and 360 degree cameras and drones.
It is important for students and their parents to read and understand the School’s ICT Acceptable Use Policy which outlines in detail the School’s expectations regarding the use of ICT infrastructure and devices.
Co-Curricular Activities
Sport
The Co-curricular program is vital to a student’s education at The King’s School as it provides challenges which allow a boy’s character to develop. A wide range of sports and physical activities are provided for boys in all four terms. In team games, every effort is made to arrange regular Saturday fixtures against other schools. The School encourages younger boys to take part in team games.
All boys are required to have a full commitment to school sport. A boy’s sporting commitment will involve at least two training sessions per week and Saturday fixtures. School sport takes precedence over outside sporting programs or other co-curricular activities.
Boarders and day boys will be required to attend a number of compulsory AAGPS events to support school teams (for example: The Head of the River Regatta, the AAGPS Athletics Championships, designated winter matches.)
Sports offered include:
• In Terms 1 and 4: Cricket, Basketball, Tennis, Table Tennis, Swimming, Rowing, Water Polo and Mountain Biking.
• In Terms 2 and 3: Rugby, Badminton, Cross Country, Football, Volleyball and Mountain Biking.
• The School also enters the Australian Schools Snowsports competition during the winter months.
• All boys take part in Athletics during the appropriate season.
Please discuss your preferences with the Housemaster or Mentor on Reception Day.
Places in some teams can be very competitive due to a limitation on the number of players that can field a team. While the School endeavours to place boys in a sport of their preference, this is dependent on appropriate skill levels and is not always possible.
Co-Curricular Opportunities
The School offers an extensive range of co-curricular activities, and boys are encouraged to involve themselves in as many of these as is feasible. However, the excitement of such a wide choice can lead to over-commitment and it is recommended that boys consult their Housemaster or Mentor before involving themselves in activities. All information regarding co-curricular activities can be found on KingsNet.
Many of these activities are scheduled for evenings or afternoons and must not interfere with satisfactory completion of homework or scheduled school sports practices.
Cadet Corps
Participation in The King’s School Cadet Corps is compulsory for all boys in Years 9 and 10. Years 11 and 12 boys elect to undertake promotions courses, which lead to the award of rank within the Corps. The School’s Cadet Corps is one of the oldest and largest in the country and is an important part of the tradition of the School. Membership of the Corps involves activities that encourage self-reliance and confidence. Trekking, abseiling, navigation and other skills are taught and practised, as well as some army-style drills that culminate in an impressive Regimental Passing Out Parade on the JS White Oval. An annual camp at Singleton Army Range and in the Brokenback Ranges near Singleton is a highlight of the Corps year. The School uniform is also the Cadet Corps dress uniform (including the traditional slouch hat).
Boys to Men Program
The Boys to Men program in Year 10 develops leadership and lifeskills required in the home. This dynamic course aims to produce young men who can make significant contributions to society. The course teaches practical skills such as money management, cooking, leadership, car maintenance, ironing and etiquette. There is also reflection on how to develop healthy relationships and be a responsible and caring partner.
Camps Week
All students will be involved in a week long program at the end of Term 1 designed to to enhance teamwork, develop new skills and enhance relationships within the Year Group.
• Year 7: Expeditionary based camp around Sydney locations.
• Year 8: The camp consists of outdoor activities at a regional location in NSW.
• Years 9-12 Corps: This program is run by The King’s School Cadet Unit and is conducted in the in the Brokenback Ranges near Singleton. Activities include trekking, abseiling and the development of leadership and survival skills.
• Years 11-12 Community Outreach is for students not continuing with Cadets. Students engage in community service (Year 11) or work experience/ placement (Year 12).
Performing Arts
Music
A separate booklet outlining the School’s music facilities and program is available on request. The Director of Music oversees an extensive team of class and specialist teachers based in the Music School near Futter Hall.
Individual Music Tuition
A range of instruments are taught individually in the School including: violin, viola, cello, double bass, guitar, trumpet, trombone, french horn, tuba, euphonium, flute, clarinet, saxophone, oboe, bassoon, percussion and drum kit, singing, piano, pipe organ (piano grade 5 is a prerequisite) and harpsichord.
If a boy wishes to commence musical tuition, at any time during the year, an online application can be completed on KingsNet by a parent/guardian.
It is not always necessary for a boy to have his own instruments when he starts learning, the School has a rental scheme for most instruments with pianos and guitars being exempt. Once a boy has made reasonable progress, parents are asked to consider buying an instrument for their sons. It is then highly recommended to privately insure this item, covering loss or damage that may occur at school, or in transit.
Before a boy decides to learn an instrument, he should be enthusiastic and want to practise every day. Without daily practice, learning an instrument becomes a frustration for the teacher and student. The School reserves the right to ask boys who are not progressing in accordance with their ability, to cease learning. In the early years, half an hour a day is a reasonable practice time, and after Grade IV longer practice time will be necessary.
The School recommends that only dedicated and able musicians have enough time to learn more than one instrument.
Boys who learn orchestral or band instruments are required to participate in instrumental groups within the School. Piano and voice students are expected to be members of at least one choral group.
Theory/musicianship lessons are available on an individual basis.
Elective music as a school subject is a valuable option for all boys. Boys study a wide range of music including music theatre, pop, multimedia and classical genres. Music may be taken to Year 10, continued as an HSC or IB subject.
If a boy wishes to discontinue instrumental tuition, the School requires four weeks notice in writing, or else the equivalent fee is charged.
The Drama Studio (a modern 200-seat black box theatre) allows students with the opportunity to perform in a professional setting and to develop highly technical skills in lighting, sound, design and stage management.
Please contact the Music Administrative Assistant on (02) 9683 8424 for further information about individual tuition and to receive a copy of the Music Department Handbook.
Drama And The King’s Theatre
Drama remains one of the School’s most popular electives and with the vibrant Drama Centre, students have a dedicated, professionally equipped facility to learn drama and theatre craft. The Drama and Theatre staff present an academic program that develops confidence, communication, collaboration and selfexpression. The teaching of Drama allows King’s students to engage in a range of experiences recognising the contribution of actors, directors, playwrights, designers and technicians. Equally as important, the School equips students with interactive and communicative skills that will enrich every aspect of their personal and professional life.
Working in collaboration with the Drama Department, The King’s Theatre (an industry standard 350-seat theatre), is a venue for a vibrant program of drama and musical theatre. Theatrical performances take place several times a year at The King’s School, giving boys the opportunity to enjoy participating in a musical or dramatic production, free from the constraints of an academic subject. Students can experience the electricity of performing before a packed house. They can indulge their interests in acting, singing, dancing and playing in the orchestra, or working behind the scenes with stage management, lighting, sound and scenic design. In collaboration with the girls from Tara Anglican School for Girls, the boys are afforded a cultural and social experience that they will remember for the rest of their lives.
Travel
Dress Regulations –Weekdays and Saturdays
Day boys travelling to and from the School on public transport are required to wear the full School uniform, including jacket and tie. As a concession to the hot climate, during Terms 1 and 4, the jacket and tie is not required to be worn when travelling to and from the school.
Day boys travelling in Terms 2 and 3 by car to and from School are required to wear the full School uniform including jacket and tie. If removed during the trip, the jacket must be brought to School and put on as soon as the student gets out of the car.
All students catching buses home are to be correctly attired, before leaving The King’s School bus turning circle at Main Reception.
Boys who are driven to and from sporting fixtures may wear the appropriate sports uniform under the King’s tracksuit. All boys must wear the King’s tracksuit over their sports uniform when travelling to an away fixture or walking in the School grounds.
In winter, when the School is host on Saturdays, full School uniform is to be worn at all times.
Day Boy Travel
Day boys who are entitled to use government rail, bus or ferry services, or private bus services may apply for a student Opal card online at https://apps. transport.nsw.gov.au/ssts. Once issued, the free student Opal card may be used from Monday to Friday to get to and from home and school. The free student Opal card is not able to be used at weekends, for sports travel or for use during school holidays. If parents have to drive their sons to the nearest railway station or bus stop by private vehicle they are eligible to apply for a private vehicle conveyance subsidy.
Detailed information about bus services provided to enable students to travel to/ from School is available by contacting the Transport Supervisor at buses@kings.edu. au or visiting KingsNet. Please contact us if you would like your son to use one of these services.
Students are expected to wear the correct uniform for summer or winter to and from school, from when they leave home or school, in public or on buses.
For information, refer to the School Diary. It is compulsory by law in NSW that all students wear seat belts at all times.
Please note: No food or drink (apart from water) is permitted on the School buses.
Services include:
• Balgowlah / Mosman / Neutral Bay
• Balmain / Drummoyne / Gladesville / West Ryde
• North Kellyville / Bella Vista / Winston Hills
• Cammeray / Northbridge
• Galston / Dural / Glenhaven / Kellyville
• Greenwich
• Holsworthy / Moorebank / Merrylands / Wentworthville
• Woolwich / Hunters Hill / Gladesville / Boronia Park
• Longueville / Putney
• Rouse Hill / The Ponds / Glenwood / Winston Hills
• St Ives / Gordon
• Strathfield / Concord / Rhodes / Newington
• Wahroonga / Thornleigh Weekly Services
• Moss Vale / Bowral / Mt Annan (Weekly Services)
• Rose Bay / Double Bay / Edgecliff (Weekly Services).
Motor Vehicles
Boarders are not permitted to have motor vehicles garaged nearby or parked within the School grounds, unless approval has been given by the Head of Senior School. Day boys are permitted to park their vehicles in the School grounds above the JS White Oval following application to, and formal approval from, the School Sergeant.
Parents should exercise their own judgement as to whether their son should be permitted to travel in a car driven by a student. The School requires documentation from a parent who is allowing their son to drive other boys to school. The School is not in a position to ‘police’ such arrangements.
More information about bus services travelling to and from the School is available on KingsNet or by contacting:
Mrs Karen Austin 02 9683 8588 kaustin@kings.edu.au
One Community
The training wheels are off – the journey of your son from the embracing arms of Gowan Brae and the Year 7 team is about to gain momentum as he moves into the Senior School world. It is a very exciting time, indeed.
For those of you new to King’s, welcome! For those of you who have watched your primary sons turn into young men, so will it continue! And we are so very blessed that you continue to choose King’s to work with them on their journey.
There will be some of you who are based overseas; and for whom King’s is your first Australian school. The rest of you have recently or previously come from other schools – rural or Sydney-based – and Gowan Brae was the landing pad for exceptional growth and challenges. But for all of you, welcome, or welcome back.
As many of you would know, the journey that students enjoy here at King’s is only one part of our story. Steeped in tradition and history of the oldest independent school in Australia, our community awaits the involvement of students and parents alike. Given that there are over 120 people who live here onsite on our sprawling 320 acres, we understand how important community is. As such, we invite you parents to become not just a bystanders to your sons’ education, but to fully immerse yourselves in whatever facets of King’s you might enjoy. Many of you already have –and this is indeed a wonderful thing.
All associations and clubs within the School are supported by the Family and Friends Association (FAFA). The FAFA meet twice each term with the purpose of engaging all parents within the School to better enjoy the educational journey of the young men here at King’s. Each Senior House has two representatives and they work with the Housemasters of each House to create meaningful and authentic events and occasions that parents love attending.
Under the FAFA banner fall many clubs and associations that might interest you:
The King’s Women’s Network (KWN) –an informal network created by women, for women. The KWN host events and gatherings in the name of friendship, supporting network building and fun.
The King’s Community Church – A family church that meets at the beautiful King’s Memorial Chapel at 9:30am every Sunday. There is also a parent prayer group every Friday morning at the Chapel at 8:30am.
King’s Art Lovers – Art Lover events provide wonderful opportunities for our parent community to immerse themselves in the art world. King’s Art Lovers events are open to all our community who have an interest in visual arts and would like to learn more about art.
Friends of Music – A parent support group which actively involves itself in supporting music here at King’s and raises funds for concert and event support and coordination.
The following sports also have supporter clubs and associations, and details on how to join and who to approach can be found on our KingsNet ‘Parents and Community’ page, under ‘Parent Clubs and Associations’.
• Rugby
• Football
• Rowing
• Cricket
• Tennis
• Basketball
• Snowsports
King’s is truly a wonderful place. We are proud of the community that comes together to share in the education of all King’s students.
On behalf of the entire King’s community, we would like to welcome you – or welcome you back - to our family and look forward to seeing you at many of the events and functions in the years ahead.
Yours Sincerely,
Cassandra Salmon Director of Community Engagement
School Shop
The Braeside Shop
The King’s School Foundation runs the Braeside Shop, a fully-stocked shop at the School. It is situated on Ryrie Road, beside the King’s Theatre. Items purchased can be charged to Visa, Mastercard or EFTPOS. The Braeside Shop stocks all School uniform clothing requirements including school shoes. The Braeside Shop is the sole retailer of uniforms for The King’s School.
Uniform Fittings by Appointment Only
The Braeside Shop will commence appointments for 2025 new student uniforms from October 2024. You should allow 1 hour for a fitting appointment. Fittings are strictly by appointment only. Appointments can be made on KingsNet.
To ensure your child is able to purchase all the required uniform items in their size, it is strongly recommended that you outfit your child before the end of Term 4 2024. Generally, January fittings are allocated to overseas, interstate and late enrolment students.
Opening Times
2024: Monday to Friday (8.00am - 4.00pm) until Friday 13 December 2024.
The shop is closed from 14 December 2024 to 14 January 2025.
2025: Monday to Friday (8.00am - 4.00pm) from Tuesday 14 January 2025.
Monday to Friday only until School resumes then Monday to Saturday.
Closed on Australia Day (26 January 2025).
Contacting the Braeside Shop
To book your fitting appointment, please contact the Braeside Shop
School Term Dates 2025
Term 1
School commence
Wednesday 29 January
Term concludes Thursday 10 April
Easter Break Good Friday 18 April – Easter Monday 21 April
Senior School Camps Week Thursday 3 April – Wednesday 9 Aprill
Term 2
Classes commence Tuesday 29 April
Classes conclude Friday 27 June
King’s Birthday Weekend Friday 6 June – Monday 9 June
Anzac Day Friday 25 April
Term 3 (Years 7-11)
Classes commence
Phone: 02 9683 8463
Fax: 02 9683 8480
Email: braesideshop@kings.edu.au or uniformshop@kings.edu.au
Tuesday 22 July
Classes conclude Thursday 25 September
Term 3 (Year 12)
Classes commence Tuesday 22 July
Classes conclude Friday 26 September
Term 4
Classes commence
Wednesday 15 October
Classes concludes Thursday 4 December