Kingham Hill School A GSG School

Curricula

EPQ - EPQ

Other features

Music and dance scheme - government funding and grants available to help with fees at selected independent music and dance schools.

International Study Centre - school has a linked, international study centre for overseas students wishing to improve their English.

Sports

Unusual sports

Shooting

Sailing

What The Good Schools Guide says

Headmaster

Since April 2023, Pete Last BA MEd, previously head of Kingsley School, Bideford. Educated at Alleyn’s then read geography at St Catharine’s College, Cambridge. After university his intention was to take a gap year and travel but mission experience at the Hebron School in India changed his life course. He met his wife and they stayed on as teachers/houseparents for six years. His three children were born in India and when they reached school age they returned to the UK. A man who stays the distance: Mr L taught at Lord Wandsworth College for nine years, then Stowe for 11 years in a range of roles including head of geography, head of boarding, assistant head and deputy head (pastoral).

Head tells us his many houseparent years mean boarding schools are in his DNA. Was also attracted by the medium size of Kingham Hill as well as its friendly nature, strong moral ethos and beautiful Cotswolds setting. He arrived summer term 2023 and used it to watch, listen and observe. Says his leadership approach is based on marginal gains theory rather than a grassroots overhaul.

Least standoffish head imaginable – a friendly, emotionally intelligent man who’s relaxed with adults and children alike. Staff praise his willingness to muck in, his support and his positive nature. Pupils speak warmly of him and like that he’s approachable, kind and fun. One said, ‘He’s a great head but also a brilliant singer. He recently gave an epic performance of I’m Just Ken in a school assembly.’

Head’s study has historic founder’s oak desk moved to one side to make way for practical if incongruous desk with adjustable height settings as Mr L keen to avoid being too static. On our visit a couple of pupils popped in for their birthday chat and chocolate. ‘It’s a good way for me to get to know the students, as well as to celebrate their birthdays.’ Proud of the pupils, he says, ‘Just wait until you meet them. They are the best advert for the school.’

He’s also a governor in an HMC school, inspector for ISI and was vice chair of a large multi-academy trust in Devon. In holidays, he gives executive coaching and consulting for senior leaders in schools. Says, ‘Doesn’t matter where we are in life, we all need someone to act as a sound board and who gives sound advice.’

He likes to read, often non-fiction coaching books about better ways to communicate, but currently The Book Thief, at his wife’s suggestion. TV crime thrillers such as Death in Paradise, Silent Witness and Vera provide escape and relaxation. As the coasters on the coffee table attest, he’s also a keen Arsenal fan. Has three grown-up children who have left home and lives on site with his wife, Debs.

Entrance

Genuinely mixed ability and non-selective with no formal entrance exams although prospective pupils sit the short CAT4 test for indication of ability. Head meets with pupils and their families before joining and taster days can be offered. KHS has strong military links including some ex-military staff, so popular with military families (RAF Croughton not far and on a bus route). For a rural school, KHS has a surprisingly global outlook with 25 per cent international pupils. About half of these are from US – Kingham Hill is one of only two in the whole country with US Middle States Association accreditation offering the American High School diploma. American-style proms and graduation ceremonies are held for these students to make them feel at home. Several students from mainland China, several more from Hong Kong, as well as a group of German students who come for a term in year 10 as part of a long-running partnership.

ESOL offered according to need but an existing level of English required for students joining later in the school so they can access learning. For sixth form entry, applicants need five grade 4s at GCSE (including in English and maths), with some subject-specific grade requirements.

Exit

Nearly 35 per cent of pupils depart after GCSE to pursue vocational courses or because parents have been redeployed. Three-quarters of sixth formers go on to Russell Group universities and over 90 per cent get their preferred option. Popular choices include York, Leeds, Exeter, Lancaster, Birmingham, Bristol, Durham, Loughborough, Newcastle, Reading, Sheffield, UCL, Bath, Edinburgh, Nottingham and Warwick. School stresses students don’t pick universities on perceived prestige but on the quality of the individual course (confirmed when we chatted to current sixth formers). Unsurprisingly, some go to US institutions, including Virginia Tech, Northern Arizona University and Kansas University.

Latest results

In 2023, 44 per cent 9-7 at GCSE; 52 per cent A*/A at A level (71 per cent A*-B). In 2019 (the last pre-pandemic results), 49 per cent 9-7 at GCSE; 45 per cent A*/A at A level (or vocational equivalent).

Teaching and learning

Small class sizes of about 15 with an emphasis on relaxed, trusting and respectful relationships between teachers and children resulting in a camaraderie praised by parents and pupils alike. Technology in place but not constantly in use or relied upon – focus is on a good-quality teacher and lessons are interactive. As one teacher said, ‘It’s smart teaching not Smart Board teaching.’ Old fashioned but effective: despite the wide mix of ability, school gets decent results and consistently top five per cent value added in the country. Individual attention means each child is noticed and support actions formulated quickly if needed so no falling behind.

On our visit we saw students listening well and responding to questions thoughtfully. One parent told us, ‘There’s no fear of getting things wrong and being humiliated in front of classmates. They’re encouraged to have a go even if they’re not sure. If I had to pin it down, that’s the best thing about the school.’

Every pupil has a personal tutor to help monitor their progress and provide day-to-day support. Maths is set right from the beginning and English from year 10. While most take both GCSE English literature and language, some do drop one to focus on core GCSE subjects. Popular animal management on working farm can be taken in addition to or instead of biology, chemistry and physics. French, Spanish and Latin are offered as options.

Maths and history are popular at A level. Ancient civilisation is a recent addition for students who enjoyed the subject but struggled with the ancient language. DT, animal management, sport, business and engineering are BTEC and CTEC so plenty of choice. In all, 31 subjects offered in sixth form to suit all interests and abilities and no stigma attaches to a less academic or unconventional mix. Most sixth formers do the EPQ.

For further challenge, Octagon Society is the Kingham extension programme for scholars but also those who self-elect. Pupils can apply to belong to with a handwritten letter and interview. School says it’s the child’s desire and commitment to learn rather than their grades that determines if they’re successful. There’s a focus on ethical and philosophical investigation, fun trips and hands-on practical learning. The society is overseen by the head of languages, who also runs the annual battlefields of northern France and Belgium trip. Beforehand, pupils research one of the 64 old Kingham Hill boys who fought and died in WWI, then find their graves. A parent said, ‘It’s makes it unbelievably personal and moving for them.’

There’s a fabulous two-level library with attractive and varied books beautifully displayed. Pupils were flicking through books and reading in corners, something we love to see. Slick maths and science block has airy central spaces across both floors where superb art is displayed on white walls. Around these are modern laboratory facilities and well-equipped and innovative classrooms/breakout rooms, testament to the importance school places on STEM subjects. Opposite is the farm where pupils learn about husbandry and making agriculture productive and financially viable (neighbour Jeremy Clarkson, take note). One sixth former explained to us the benefits of selling lambs earlier in the season. It’s real farming not a petting zoo although Finn the Shetland pony enjoys school-wide adulation.

Learning support and SEN

The CReSTeD registered, dedicated learning support department is called Greens and offers a range of group and one-to-one support at additional cost. Six have EHCPs and 14 per cent of the pupils are on the SEN register. Provision is reviewed and evaluated frequently with regular communication home. School offers provision for dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, ASD spectrum as well as for undiagnosed students who benefit from extra assistance. All students can pop in for a chat or down time.

Parents speak highly of the department. One told us, ‘Our daughter doesn’t see asking for help as a failure and feels her learning, though different, is equally valued and championed.’ Parents also value the Greens prep clinic which runs twice a week.

Wheelchair access throughout the school site.

The arts and extracurricular

Professional wood and metal workshops with the full range of machinery, tool and ample workstations. A student-built go-kart hangs from the ceiling as both dramatic art installation and motivational tool (go-karting is a thing here – more later). GCSE students had made miniature ski pavilions and chalets while sixth form projects included a stylish and covetable Modernist transparent acrylic and copper piping desk.

There are art studios on two levels, a kiln for ceramic work and a small photography studio. Students, encouraged to be brave and experimental, are introduced to range of styles and materials including stained glass and 3D structures. One parent said, ‘Our daughter’s artistic interest and ability has been nurtured. Her perfectionism has also been managed and supported.’

The former sports hall has been kitted out with all the latest sound/lighting tech and is now a 150-seat performing arts centre for plays and performances. The Performing Arts Academy on Monday evenings puts on popular musicals as well as hard-hitting plays such as The Crucible. Former academy pupils have gone on to National Youth Theatre and top drama schools. It’s quite the commitment though, finishing at 9pm. One parent said, ‘We do it because our daughter loves it but 9pm isn’t ideal.’ School offers Monday night boarding if the journey home is a stretch too far at this hour.

Fantastic that all year 7 and 8 students learn an instrument free of charge and some join the school orchestra or one of the ensembles. School working to improve the number who commit to their instrument longer term but recognises the value of the experience, if just for a couple of years. The newly appointed head of academic music is seeing her first GCSE students through the subject this year. Gospel and choral singing are part of the weekly chapel services.

Wide range of club options which, along with usual arts and sport offerings, includes Greek club, flight stimulator, fashion and product design, film makers, farm club, Christian Union, astronomy and bee-keeping.

CCF is mandatory in year 9 with army and RAF sections. Military-themed activities build confidence, fitness, teamwork and discipline. Many students choose to continue.

Sport

Plenty of sport daily for every year group on school’s glorious playing fields and sport facilities. On offer are rugby, football, cricket, hockey and tennis, as well as athletics, netball and rounders, badminton and cross-country on the scenic circular track. Regular and inclusive competitive fixtures with local schools on match afternoons as well as international tours. Emphasis on team spirit as much as result. One student told us, ‘I never liked PE before but as there’s no pressure here, I’ve really got into it.’ A parent of a sporty child said, ‘The recognition it’s something he’s good at has built his self-esteem. He would say he’d like more fixtures.’ School say they have increased the number of schools they play against, with a wide variety of state and independent (26 so far this year) to give more opportunity for competition.

Fabulous new sports hall also has a climbing wall, squash court, four-court hall with fitness suites and a viewing pavilion onto Astro and tennis courts. There’s a separate 25-metre swimming pool and additional gym and all facilities available for parents’ use so dust off your PE kit.

Boarders

Seven dedicated single-sex boys’ and girls’ houses. About half of KHS pupils board, majority full time with 30 per cent weekly boarders but flexi/ad hoc are possible. Kingham USP is there’s no Saturday school which, one member of staff tells us, ‘gives us the ability to do weekend activities properly’. Day pupils can sign up to some activities but parents like that no Saturday school means they can also commit to teams outside school. Pupils tell us they enjoyed visits to trampoline and theme parks, sport activities, ice-skating, theatre, shopping trips, team-building days and inter-house competitions. There’s a mix of day and boarders in lower-school houses to avoid partition.

Spacious and homely boarding houses with communal areas and kitchens are staffed by two resident houseparents and three tutors per house. It’s a tight ship with regular housekeeping tasks and weekly room checks. Pupils in years 1-3 have larger dorms of three to six with regular rotation. Rooms have cabin beds with storage and pull-out desks as well as a stand-alone wardrobe. Sixth formers enjoy separate sections in the boarding houses with some bijoux single rooms on offer (although some choose to share with a bestie).

Ethos and heritage

Kingham Hill has 100 acres of Cotswolds countryside with spectacular panoramic views beyond. One parent said, ‘The setting, access to nature and opportunities for sport and fresh air are the reasons we picked Kingham.’ Though in the sticks, surprisingly connected – Kingham has a train station and is 80 minutes by direct train (via Oxford) to London Paddington. It’s a five-minute drive from Lady Bamford’s organic Daylesford Farm with cafés, luxury shops, spa and leisure facilities. Not really the earthy KHS vibe but there is a connection. Daylesford House was the former home of Kingham Hill’s founder, Christian philanthropist Charles Edward Baring Young. He founded the school in 1886 to provide orphaned and destitute boys with love, a familial home, a good education and a trade. This duality of duty and care still forms school ethos; Kingham Hill has a rare sense of community beyond the school day. Many teachers, both single and with families, live happily in the on-site staff village.

School is very proud of its Christian ethos which promotes qualities such as kindness, patience and empathy. Charity also an important aspect; a recent community project was run to support the Branch charity in the heart of Chipping Norton. There’s a weekly chapel service for everyone, with other services such as Holy Communion, Sunday evening service, bible breakfasts and Christian Unions optional and well attended. It’s liberal, modern and accepting – the chapel has flags representing the nation states of all the pupils and feels a place of contemplation and reflection as well as worship. Although some parents actively seek this spiritual element, many are not Christian or even religious but choose the school because they’re on board with the moral code. Head says all are welcome.

Parents acknowledge that, being so tucked away, KHS can feel like a bubble. One said, ‘It’s not a bad thing. They learn about the wider world and it’s waiting for them when they’re a bit older and better equipped to deal with it.’ Sixth formers have dinners and socials as well as separate social and study areas, a Thursday night drink in the bar and extended privileges. They’re mentors for younger students and are given responsibilities throughout the year. We thought them a happy bunch who enjoyed easy and friendly relationships with caring staff. A parent said, ‘As trainee adults they still need guidance and support. At KHS they get it.’

Pastoral care, inclusivity and discipline

Students are from a range of social backgrounds and 19.5 per cent of pupils are non-Caucasian. Parents report the international contingent generally mix well with the rest of the school, in particular the German group who come for a term. In 2021, ISI inspectors raised concerns relating to minority groups and inclusivity. However, new leadership and reviewed policies mean inspection body were satisfied these issues have been well addressed. The parents we spoke to felt content that the correct procedures were in place and that everyone had moved on.

Clear lines in the sand for behaviour with zero tolerance on drink and drugs. Head says, ‘We go after the small stuff so the big stuff doesn’t happen.’ Fair and sensible rules mean little kickback so behaviour generally good with usual minor transgressions. One parent had minor gripe of things going missing from unlocked lockers. A system of yellow and red cards denotes a progression of detentions, and parents are kept in loop.

Pupils and parents

Diverse parent body, with those in farming, trade and finance as well as military and diplomatic services. The uniting wish is for a traditional but holistic education without the snobbery prevalent at some of the bigger-brand school. Parents, considered part of KHS, are welcomed into school regularly and are invited to the school bar every Friday – and there are regulars, as well as those who pop in now and then. Alumni, known as Hillians, come back to share skills, network and give careers advice. Regular socials strengthen their ties with each other and the school.

Pupils demonstrate good manners and were friendly and supportive of each other. It’s cool to be smart so while there’s high spirits in the fresh air during breaks, there’s a good level of focus in lessons.

Money matters

Fees considered mid-range and 15 per cent of revenue is allocated to means-tested bursaries (up to 50 per cent). School offers a range of scholarships in years 7, 9 and sixth form with remissions between 10 and 25 per cent. There’s also one exceptional award of up to 75 per cent for a pupil of outstanding all-round ability, hoping to progress from fifth form to the lower sixth and for whom the award will enable a continuing and significant contribution to Kingham Hill.

The last word

In the rolling Cotswold countryside, you’d be hard pushed to find a school in a more beautiful, tranquil setting. Kingham Hill School is distinctive in its proud Christian heritage, traditional but caring education and strong international networks. Friendly staff go the extra mile (and then some) to make sure students with wide-ranging abilities and backgrounds fulfil academic and personal potential. A quirky, happy school that’s both rural and global, fostering both individuality and community. Its unique essence lies in the contradiction.

Special Education Needs

Who came from where