Ages 
A school with a strong and sound value set, brimming with energy, coupled with good academics and an exceptional sports offering. But it's the intangibles that make King's special - the sense of community, the friendships built, the 'can do' and all-round decentness, that set it apart.
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Overview & data
- Pupil numbers
- 392 ·
- Sixth form numbers
- 159 ·
- Offers boarding
- Yes ·
- Religion
- C of E
- Fees
- Day £32,043; Boarding £49,104 pa
- Local authority
- Somerset County Council
- Linked schools
Headteacher
Headmaster
Michael Sloan
Since 2022, Michael Sloan BA, previously deputy head at Brighton College. Grew up in Northern Ireland and attended the Methodist College in Belfast, he read ancient history at Newcastle before attending the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst. Serving
Entrance
Around 80 pupils into year 9 via meeting with the head and sitting school’s own tests in maths, English and verbal reasoning. Many take scholarship assessments.
The school's fully-owned prep a significant feeder, with others joining from local
- Open days
- First Saturday in October
Exit
A handful leave after GCSEs. The majority of those who stay head to Russell Group universities – Bristol, Bath, Durham, Exeter and Liverpool popular. Some follow their hearts and skills into further education in music, drama or professional sport
Latest results
In 2025, 51 per cent 9-7 at GCSE; 35 per cent A*/A at A level (63 per cent A*-B).
A level - Average points score (2024)
What is this?
These figures tell you the average grade and average points that pupils achieved in their academic qualifications. A maximum of 60 points are available for a grade A* at A level.
Teaching & learning
Head has seized the opportunity to 're-energize' staff who talk of a 'new dynamism' in the air. His strategy to up the teaching game has also included the appointment of a female assistant head of teaching and learning, a former combustion physicist,
- Qualifications taken in 2024
- A level
- BTEC
- EPQ
- GCSE
Learning support & SEN
All pupils assessed in year 9 for dyslexia with follow up progress screening in years 10 and 12 for learning challenges such as memory-related or processing, reading, writing or numeracy issues. Extra support tailored to the individual for most minor
Arts & extracurricular
With creative expression highly valued, pupils encouraged to 'have a go' and become involved in all areas of the arts and music. Parents sing the praises of the 'design brilliance' of the Silvermead arts building with its four floors of light,
Sport
School's sporting reputation is a draw for many and while inclusion is the order of the day, those who thrive on being real all-rounders and taking part in a host of sports will fare best here. King's pitches itself as 'the best cricket school in the
Boarders
Predominantly a boarding school, the percentage of boarders has fallen somewhat of late, but it’s still over 46 per cent full boarding, with the number of boys boarding strongly outnumbering girls. Boarders come from all over the UK, international
Ethos & heritage
Founded in 1880 as King Alfred's College (hence the naming of former pupils as Old Aluredians) by visionary cleric Canon Nathaniel Woodard, King's imbues the strong Christian values and focus on exceptional pastoral care synonymous with Woodard
Pastoral care, inclusivity & discipline
Confident pupils hold their heads high and are overtly proud of their school. The warm, friendly atmosphere is enveloping. 'It all feels comfortable and loved', in the words of one parent 'pastoral care here is outstanding'. Every pupil has a
Mobile phone policy
A clear mobile phone policy is a really important part of modern schooling. This school has provided us with their policy.
Mobile phone policy
Provided by the school and not part of our review Our mobile phone policy aims to strike the balance between the educational and social benefits of modern technology against the need to safeguard our pupils and promote their wellbeing. Pupils are allowed to have their phones at school, but it’s not a free-for all! Our pupils develop self-discipline through our clear boundaries. Third, fourth and fifth form pupils leave their phones in their houses during the day and hand them in overnight, while pupils of all ages are guided regarding responsible use and the mental health benefits of digital detoxing, which include better sleep and face to face social interactions.
Pupils & parents
During our discussions with parents past and present, the resounding message was that King’s turns out engaged and positive students. In the words of one parent, ‘everyone seems to leave here with impressive life skills: they are grounded,
Money matters
Fees are higher than those of its local competitors but commensurate with what’s on offer. Scholarships for academic, sporting and artistic prowess - to a maximum value of 20 per cent of the day fee - are awarded at 13+ and 16+. Academic scholars
- Fee information
- Day £32,043; Boarding £49,104 pa
The last word
A school with a strong and sound value set, brimming with energy, coupled with good academics and an exceptional sports offering. But it's the intangibles that make King's special - the sense of community, the friendships built, the 'can do' and
