Kent College (Canterbury)

Kent College (Canterbury) is a distinguished co-educational secondary school located in the picturesque city of Canterbury. The school has a rich history dating back to 1885 and is known for its forward-thinking approach to education. It offers a nurturing environment where teachers genuinely get to know their pupils, providing individual attention both academically and pastorally.

The school has a diverse intake, with around three-quarters of the junior school joining in Year 7, making up 50% of the cohort. The remaining students come from local state primaries and preps, including St Faith’s, Ash, Northbourne Park, Spring Grove, and Lorenden Prep. Entry assessments include tests in Maths, English, and Non-Verbal Reasoning (NVR), along with an interview and two recent school reports to ensure a good fit. Approximately 35 students join in the sixth form, requiring five grade 6s at GCSE, including in subjects to be studied at A level.

Kent College boasts impressive academic results. In 2023, 45% of GCSE grades were 9-7, and 37% of A level grades were A*/A, with 61% achieving A*-B. The International Baccalaureate (IB) score average was 36. The school’s academic success is attributed to its flexible curriculum, setting the right pace, and a strong focus on co-curricular activities and clear career pathways.

The school sets from the outset in English and Maths, and from Year 8 in Science, Languages, and Humanities. Class sizes range from 14 to 16 in Years 7-11 and between four and 16 in the seminar-style sixth form. GCSEs are mainly traditional, with options like Electronics, Media Studies, and Drama. French, German, or Spanish are compulsory, though many pupils would choose a language anyway. A short Religious Studies course is mandatory.

In the sixth form, about a quarter of students pursue the IB, achieving commendable results. The rest choose three or four A levels from a broad menu, including Electronics, Computer Science, and Politics. Business Studies, Economics, Geography, Further Maths, and English are the most popular A levels. The school encourages the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), and the Cambridge Technical Diploma is increasingly popular among those with different learning styles.

The school’s facilities have seen recent upgrades, including revamped classrooms with modern teaching walls. The new sixth form centre features trendy lighting, hip workspaces, and comfortable sofas, providing a balanced environment for study and relaxation.

Kent College offers robust learning support and SEN provision. The full-time Head of Learning Support is backed by two higher-level teaching assistants and four classroom assistants, all specialising in dyslexia. Approximately 6% of students receive support, mainly for dyslexia and ADHD. The department is well-resourced, with a positive atmosphere and a focus on gentle, subtle support.

The arts and extra-curricular activities are integral to life at Kent College. The Great Hall, a 600-seat theatre, hosts school events and the annual Canterbury Festival. Recent productions like High School Musical and The 39 Steps were well-received. The music department is strong, with various ensembles and choirs, including a full orchestra and a jazz band. The art department is also thriving, with new photography and print rooms.

Sport is a significant part of the school’s offering, with 150 sport scholars and top coaches. The school caters to all levels, from recreational sport to elite coaching. Main sports include hockey, football, cricket, athletics, netball, tennis, and rugby. The school has excellent facilities, including a floodlit central Astro, cricket grounds, tennis courts, and plans to upgrade the sports hall.

Boarding at Kent College is vibrant, with five houses on the main campus. Each house has its own character, and there are exciting plans for a co-ed sixth form house. Boarding houses are well-equipped, with common rooms and a range of evening and weekend activities.

The school’s ethos and heritage are rooted in its Methodist foundation, promoting global thinking and adaptability. The campus blends old and new buildings, with key focal points like the Great Hall, the traditional quad, and the central Astro. The dining room is traditional yet lively, and the 1885 tuck shop is a popular spot for pupils.

Kent College is proud of its inclusive community, welcoming pupils of all faiths and none. The school’s pastoral care is strong, with a visible and appreciated chaplain and a school counsellor. Pupils can take on leadership roles in wellbeing and pastoral care, and the school promotes outreach work and environmental initiatives.

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