The King's School, Canterbury Overview
The King’s School, Canterbury, established in AD 597 by St. Augustine, is widely regarded as the oldest continuously operating school in the world. Situated within the historic precincts of Canterbury Cathedral—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—the school offers a unique blend of ancient tradition and modern education.
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Academic Matters
The King’s School, Canterbury maintains an outstanding reputation for academic achievement, led by its rigorous curriculum, experienced teaching staff, and a rich intellectual culture shaped by centuries of tradition.
Teaching and Support – Teaching is highly personalised. Smaller classes enable more interactive and discursive lessons, particularly in the Sixth Form.
Tutorial System – Every student is assigned a personal tutor who monitors academic progress, advises on subject choices, and provides university application guidance.
Learning Support – The school offers tailored academic support for students with specific learning needs, including one-on-one sessions, study skill workshops, and access arrangements for exams.
University Destinations – Many leavers gain places at top UK universities including Oxford, Cambridge, LSE, Durham, and Imperial College London. Increasing numbers also secure offers from US institutions such as Harvard, Yale, and Columbia.
The King's School, Canterbury Courses And Programmes
Lower Years (Years 9–11)
Pupils in the early senior years follow a broad curriculum. Subjects include:
- English Language and Literature
- Mathematics
- Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
- History and Geography
- Modern Languages (typically French, German, or Spanish)
- Latin or Classical Greek
- Religious Studies
- Creative and technical options such as Art, Design Technology, Music, Drama, and Computer Science
- Pupils usually take 9–11 GCSEs or IGCSEs.
Sixth Form (Years 12–13)
Students choose 3 or 4 subjects at A-Level. Options include:
- Traditional subjects like English Literature, Mathematics, History, Latin, and the Sciences
- Social sciences such as Economics, Politics, Psychology, and Philosophy
- Creative courses like Art, Music, and Drama
- Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is available to deepen research and academic writing skills
The King's School, Canterbury Fees
For the academic year 2025–26, The King’s School, Canterbury charges the following boarding fees:
Boarding Tuition Fee (per term):
- £18,234 (inclusive of VAT) -There are three terms per academic year.
Additional Charges (where applicable)
- School Fees Protection Scheme (Boarders): £91.60 per term
- Personal Effects Insurance: £8.31 per term
- AXA PPP Healthcare: £150.00 per term
- Ad-hoc Overnight Boarding: £112.80 per night
- Visa Legal Services (if applicable): £834.00 (excluding visa/NHS fees)
- Music Tuition: £483.60 per term
- Instrument Hire: £126.00 per term
- Membership for Rowing, Sailing, Fencing: £150.00 per term
- English as an Additional Language (EAL): Assessed individually
Deposits
- Acceptance Deposit: £2,400.00
- Advance Payment (non-direct debit): One term’s fee inclusive of VAT
- Additional Deposit for 2026 Entry: One term’s fee inclusive of VAT
These fees cover standard tuition and boarding but exclude optional extras and certain insurances which may vary based on the student’s needs and participation.
The King's School, Canterbury Application Deadline
Applications for boarding places should be submitted to the school before the September prior to the start of the academic year the student wishes to enter. For example, applications for entry in either September 2026 or January 2027 should be submitted before September 2025.
The King's School, Canterbury Boarding Life
The King's School, Canterbury Extracurricular Activities
The King's School, Canterbury Reviews
The King's School, Canterbury Contact Information
- Official Website: https://www.kings-school.co.uk
- Location: The King’s School, Lattergate Office, 25 The Precincts, Canterbury, Kent CT1 2ES
- Email address: info@kings-school.co.uk
- Phone: 01227 595501
