Kings College Junior School Experiences

[Carmenbeeeater]

Hi,

I'd love to hear the views and experiences of current Kings College Junior School parents.

We are considering the 7+ for my 6 year old next year and I surprised myself when I didn't particularly enjoy the open day I attended in the summer. Mostly because I felt the atmosphere amongst the prospective parents was very intense (clearly in awe of the schools prestige and reputation) and I worried that this then might carry through to day to day school life if my son was successful in getting a place.

I also found the year 3 and 4 block very squashed and claustrophobic, but it was an exceptionally hot day which might have amplified this feeling.

For context, I have another son at a different selective prep school, so I do have experience of similar settings. I had fully expected myself to be completely WOWED by Kings and was slightly disappointed that this wasn't the case.

I don't want to dismiss the school out right, after just a short visit. And I'll certainly sign up for a headmasters tour too. But I thought the best insight into the school would be from existing parents

• thank you!

Bump

Two years in the school and we love it so far. We really liked it on open days but being in there now, we love it even more.

reasons:
They genuinely ensure the values of being kind, honest, inclusive, patient and brave is embedded in all they do.

At the first meeting with school parents and children, Mr Lougher said - well done on getting in. But the competition is over. He wants the boys to try everything, try new things.

School is fun but challenging.

Everyone gets a chance - the sports teams all compete with other schools regardless of level. Allows everyone to participate.

music is very much encouraged. If you stick your hand up, you can participate in recitals. It’s not just for the best. There’s also an unauditioned choir.

how they handle when kids do something wrong - how they explain it to the children, how they handle “punishment”, and how they are truly aware of what your child is like and wanting to nip any off behaviour in the bud. It’s all done with the child at the centre.

how they provide support for kids who aren’t as vocal as others and may need a little more help in expressing themselves and making friends.

pastoral care and academics is excellent.

Year 3 and 4 have their own building. So it’s a nice transition with a homely feeling. Son certainly never complained of it being small. And they have the full use of the schools facilities.

the staff are really nice and approachable - from the dinner ladies, librarian, music department etc. there is also teachers vs parents football games.

Hope this helps.

Thank you so much @Bubblewaffle. This is really fantastic feedback and great to hear! It sounds like you have had a wonderful experience.

I am hoping to have a tour with the head next term to give me a fresh perspective.

best of luck with the school choices!

I think gut feel is quite important so see if your views change if you your again. For 11 plus I was definitely put off a couple of schools by the other parents! I was also expecting to be 'wowed' by a big competitor to Kings but really didn't like it at all.
It's all very well the head of Kings saying it's not competitive now they're in but this message will not get through to 80% of the parents and it continues into the Main school.

'See it' not 'your'!

Sadly have never been highly impressed by that school, even though local to us. At 7+/8+, told the boys, it's their 'mock' test, before the actual assessments! They never liked it either. We're a family who disagree on everything, so not liking KCS is one of those few things we actually see eye to eye on!

Had visited about 10 times when considering schools, but somehow it never felt right-
I find if a large number of boys need tuition after entry to any school, it indicates school's selection process is heavily flawed.
Boys at our school are also tutored, however don't make it to the secondary school if they don't clear the 13+. This has raised furore amongst parents, however personally consider it's fair across the board- all entering should be assessed on the same basis. Rather than 7+/8+ entrants rest on laurels. Academic pressure doesn't come from within a school, but from parents at the school, and unfortunately KCS has a high conc of tiger parents.
Many boys at KCS have a miserable time because they can't keep up. It is however great for others.
Seems you've not visited the prep either!
Def go for HMs tour, this time w a clear mind. It'll help you make a better decision