The King’s School Canterbury

Focus

A 21st-century education at the oldest school in the country

Day fees 2024/25

$40,200–$44,600 (incl. VAT)

Boarding fees 2024/25

$64,200 (incl. VAT)

Pupils

911

Ages

13–18

Spear’s Review

The King's School Canterbury is one of the oldest standing schools in the world having been founded in 597 AD. Located in the historic city of Canterbury in Kent, it is known for its academic excellence and has a reputation for nurturing intellectual curiosity and encouraging academic achievement.

In addition to its strong academic focus, King's School Canterbury provides outstanding facilities for sports, music, drama and the arts, offering students the chance to excel in various co-curricular activities.

With an emphasis on personal development, leadership, and character-building, the school fosters a supportive, vibrant community where students can thrive both academically and personally.

Academics

72 per cent of GCSE results are grades 7–9.

56 per cent of A-Level results are A* or A.

University and college destinations

Graduates at King's School Canterbury frequently receive offers from leading institutions including  St Andrews, Imperial, Edinburgh, Durham, NYU and Bocconi. In 2024 81 per cent of pupils went on to study at Russell Group Universities including nine pupils who accepted places at Oxford and Cambridge.

Head teacher

Jude Lowson became head of King's School Canterbury in August 2023 after a five-year tenure at King's College School Wimbledon where she was senior deputy head. Lowson's educational background is impressive and she attended two top institutions featured in the Spear's Schools Index: The British School of Brussels and Sevenoaks School. She also holds a master's in history from the University of Cambridge. 

Admissions

For applicants over the age of 13, the Independent Schools Examination Board Common Pre-Test — or, for non-UK prep or international students, the King's Entrance Exams — are undertaken. These exams assess verbal, numerical, spatial, and mathematical reasoning, along with an English written paper.

Candidates are also invited for an interview, which may be conducted virtually for overseas applicants.

Accessibility

Gatwick Airport: 1 hour 15 minutes

Location

Click for more information about the research process and expert insight behind the Spear’s Schools Index.