We provide a varied and stimulating curriculum in preparation for future success at GCSE and A Level.

From the start of the Preparatory School in Year 4, all of our pupils are taught by subject specialists who have extensive knowledge and experience within their given subject field. We are also fortunate in having dedicated learning facilities to support subjects. For example, Art and Design lessons take place in our superb Art Studio, Drama performances take place in our purpose built Drama Studio, and Science is taught in our fully equipped labs. This differs from the traditional set up in primary schools, where there is normally one teacher for all subjects and only one learning environment.

At King’s our broad curriculum focuses on educating rather than testing. We believe in giving our pupils a broad education and our pupils do not sit Key Stage 2 National Curriculum tests (SATs). This enables us to have a wide range of subjects and allows us to teach additional topics such as life skills.

An example of this is the Year 5 Challenge Prep. In this, pupils focus on two extended projects involving the environment and a country’s language and culture. Pupils bring the skills that they have learnt across the curriculum and they are able to apply them to ‘real life’ scenarios.

The Preparatory School curriculum aims to excite and extend the intellect of every pupil, all the while striving to build confidence and self-esteem. We want our children to develop strong academic skills, and grow into kind, caring and respectful young adults.

Prep. (Homework) at King’s

We think that giving children homework is a great way to encourage independent learning, as well as helping to consolidate the learning pupils do in the classroom. The amount of homework that the pupils receive increases as they move through the School and is carefully balanced.

Tracking Progress at King’s

It’s really important to us that each child gets the best out of their education. To support this, pupils in the Preparatory School sit end of year exams, the number of which increases as the pupils move through the School. Pupils also take progress tests to ensure that they are making expected progress.

The King’s Year 7 Diploma

Building Skills for the Future

The King’s Diploma is a two-year programme designed to develop the essential skills pupils need to succeed in an ever-changing world. Integrated within the core curriculum, the Diploma offers an innovative approach to learning, equipping pupils with the competencies that universities and employers increasingly value.

Key Features:

• A structured, skills-based curriculum that goes beyond academic achievement.
• Engaging Enquiry Days, where pupils work on real-world challenges.
• Digital Portfolios, creating a lasting record of progress and accomplishments.
• Graduation Ceremony at Rochester Cathedral, where pupils are awarded their Diploma at Pass, Merit or Distinction level.

Developing Six Core Competencies:

These essential competencies are derived from the top ten skills identified by the World Economic Forum Future of Jobs Report (2023) and are developed through the broad curriculum on offer at King’s:

• Analytical and Critical Thinking – Strengthening problem-solving and evaluation skills.
• Coordinating with Others – Enhancing teamwork and collaboration.
• Creative Thinking – Encouraging innovation and originality.
• Digital Literacy – Navigating and applying technology effectively.
• Resilience and Flexibility – Adapting to a fast-changing world.

The King’s Diploma ensures that pupils develop the skills, confidence and mindset to thrive in the next stage of their education and beyond.

A Unique Learning Experience

Enquiry Days – Learning Beyond the Classroom

Pupils participate in immersive, hands-on projects, addressing real-world issues such as sustainability and global challenges, including a Plastics Challenge, Food for Thought and Water for the World. These experiences encourage problem-solving, leadership and collaboration, helping them to develop a deeper understanding of the world around them.

Digital Portfolios – Showcasing Progress and Achievement

Each pupil creates an individual portfolio, capturing their best work across different subjects. This includes written work, photography, video and reflections on co-curricular and cultural experiences, such as museum visits, theatre performances and sports events. The portfolio provides a structured record of personal growth and achievement, preparing pupils for modern assessment methods in further education and the workplace.

Graduation at Rochester Cathedral – A Celebration of Achievement

At the end of Year 8, pupils will graduate from the Diploma with a Pass, Merit, or Distinction, determined by the quality and depth of their portfolio. This formal ceremony marks a significant milestone, celebrating the breadth of their learning journey as they move to the Senior School.

The King’s Year 7 Diploma is a forward-thinking programme that builds confidence, independence, and ambition—preparing pupils not only for success at King’s but for the opportunities and challenges of the future.

For further information regarding our curriculum, contact: Paul Medhurst, Director of Teaching and Learning at pmedhurst@kings-rochester.co.uk

PREPARATORY SCHOOL