King's School, Rochester Review 2026: The World's Second Oldest School

Founded in AD 604, King’s School, Rochester is often cited as the world’s second‑oldest school. It sits in the shadow of Rochester Cathedral, occupying a precinct where history is not just taught but lived. Despite its ancient roots, the school is far from a museum piece; it is a lively, co-educational all-through school for ages 3 to 18. Under the leadership of Principal Simon Fisher, appointed in 2025, the school positions itself as a community where individuals flourish rather than an academic hothouse. It values music, sport, and character as highly as examination grades, serving a broad ability range in a setting that few schools can match.

Entering the grounds means stepping into a Dickensian novel. Satis House, the administrative heart, gained its name from Queen Elizabeth I’s comment that her stay was "satis" (enough) and was later immortalised in Great Expectations. The red-brick buildings, ancient stone walls, and the imposing presence of Rochester Cathedral create a heritage setting that is genuinely unique.

Mr Simon Fisher joined the school from Dover College, bringing a philosophy centred on holistic education. The school is split into Pre-Prep, Preparatory, and Senior School, all clustered around the cathedral precinct. This proximity is central to the school’s identity; the Choristers of Rochester Cathedral are educated here, and music is woven into the daily rhythm.

The atmosphere is noticeably friendly. Pupils hold doors open and look visitors in the eye. The dress code is smart—blazers and ties—but worn with a relaxed confidence. The mix of day pupils and boarders adds a layer of community that extends beyond the afternoon bell, with the precinct remaining vibrant into the evening.

The academic profile reflects an inclusive, broad-ability ethos. The school does not select only the academic elite, and its results should be viewed in this context.

In the Sixth Form, the school ranks 1,364th in England for A-level outcomes (FindMySchool ranking). This places performance in the 'national typical' band, in line with the middle 35% of schools in England. Specifically, 43% of grades were A*-B in the most recent results. While not rivalling the highly selective grammar schools in nearby Kent, these figures often represent strong value-added progress for individual students.

At GCSE, the school ranks 3,937th in England. It is important to note that, like many independent schools, King's offers IGCSEs in some subjects, which can impact official government league table data. The focus here is on individual potential; a student achieving a solid set of Bs and Cs is celebrated just as much as the high-flyer securing straight As.

The curriculum is designed to be broad rather than purely exam-focused. Class sizes are small, typically around 15 to 18 in the Senior School, allowing teachers to know their students well.

In the Prep School (Years 4-8), specialist teaching is introduced early, particularly in science, music, and languages. By the time pupils reach the Senior School, they are accustomed to moving around the campus for lessons.

The approach is supportive. Teachers offer extra clinics at lunchtimes, and the Learning Support department is well-regarded for helping students with mild specific learning difficulties. The aim is to build confidence; you will not find the intense pressure-cooker environment of some London day schools here. Instead, there is a steady, structured approach that encourages consistent effort.

In 2024, 79% of leavers progressed to university. While a number of students secure places at Russell Group universities, the school also has a strong tradition of sending students to creative and specialist institutions. Leavers regularly head to music conservatoires and art colleges, reflecting the school’s strength in the creative arts.

The Oxbridge pathway exists but is niche rather than a mass thoroughfare. In 2024, the school saw five applications to Oxford and Cambridge, resulting in one acceptance. This confirms that while the most academic students are supported to the highest level, the school’s engine room drives students towards a wide range of reputable universities and specialist courses.

Admissions are non-selective in the sense that they look for potential and fit rather than just raw test scores.

Entry points are typically at Nursery, Reception, Year 7, Year 9, and Year 12. For entry into the Senior School, candidates sit entrance assessments. For 2026 entry, Year 7 scholarship assessments took place in January. The school relies heavily on a reference from the current school and an interview to find pupils who will contribute to the wider life of the school, particularly in music, sport, or drama.

For Sixth Form entry, the requirement is generally six GCSEs at grade 5 or above, with grade 6 or 7 required in the subjects to be studied at A-level.

Pastoral care is a genuine strength, anchored in the House system. In the Senior School, every pupil belongs to a House which serves as their base and social hub. Housemasters and Housemistresses are the first point of contact for parents.

The school’s Anglican foundation provides a moral framework that emphasises service and kindness. Chapel services are regular, but the approach is inclusive, welcoming students of all faiths and none. Bullying is taken seriously, and the small size of the school means issues are usually spotted and dealt with quickly.

Boarding is small-scale and familial. There are two main boarding houses: School House for boys and St Margaret's House for girls. Both are located within the secure and picturesque cathedral precinct.

The boarding community mixes UK and international students, creating a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Boarders use the school’s facilities in the evenings and weekends, including the sports centre and music practice rooms. Weekend activities keep boarders busy, with trips to London or the coast. Flexi-boarding is an option that proves popular for families with busy working lives.

Extracurricular life is dominated by two giants: Music and Sport.

Music is exceptional. As a cathedral school, it houses the choristers, but opportunities extend far beyond them. There are numerous choirs, orchestras, and wind bands. Recitals in Satis House or the cathedral itself are of a standard rarely seen in schools of this size.

Sport is the other major pillar. The school makes excellent use of its facilities, including the 'Alps' (a grass sports ground) and the Paddock. Rugby, cricket, hockey, and netball are the major competitive sports. The sports centre includes a swimming pool and fitness suite.

Other clubs cater to diverse interests, from the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) to drama productions that utilise the school’s assembly hall.

For the 2025/2026 academic year, Senior School day fees are £9,923 per term (£29,769 per year). Full boarding fees for seniors are £16,433 per term (£49,299 per year). Prep School day fees range from £6,754 to £7,557 per term.

The school offers means-tested bursaries to widen access. These are distinct from scholarships, which are awarded for excellence in Academia, Art, Drama, Music, and Sport. Scholarships typically carry a fee remission of 5-10%, though the primary value is the prestige and enrichment programme. Choristerships carry a significant fee reduction, typically 40%, in recognition of the demanding schedule.

The school day typically runs from 8:25 am to 3:45 pm or 4:00 pm. Wraparound care is available for younger pupils, with a Breakfast Club from 7:30 am and After School Care until 6:00 pm.

Located in the heart of Rochester, the school benefits from excellent transport links. Rochester train station is a short walk away, offering high-speed services to London St Pancras in 35 minutes, making the school accessible for London families.

Broad Ability Range: This is not a highly selective grammar school. Parents seeking a relentless academic hothouse may find the pace here too gentle. The school celebrates value-added progress, but raw league table positions are modest compared to super-selective neighbours.

City Centre Location: While the precinct is beautiful, the school is in a town centre. The campus is open rather than enclosed behind a single ring fence, meaning older students navigate public areas between lessons.

Historic Buildings: The charm of Grade I listed buildings is undeniable, but it comes with quirks. Some classrooms are in ancient structures that may not have the sleek feel of a new-build academy, although facilities are well-equipped.

King's School, Rochester offers a unique education where history serves as a backdrop to a modern, nurturing community. It is a school that truly looks at the whole child. Best suited to families who want a supportive, well-rounded education in a stunning setting, and who value confidence and happiness over being top of a league table. The main challenge is balancing the fees against the free grammar school alternatives in Kent, but for those who choose King's, the pastoral care and cultural richness offer a compelling return.