The King's School Canterbury, Junior King's

Spread over 80 acres, yet just two miles from the city of Canterbury in the tranquil village of Sturry, Junior King’s enjoys an enviable position on the banks of the River Stour. Founded in 1879 next to Canterbury Cathedral and moving to Sturry in 1929, Nobel Prize winner Rudyard Kipling opened the school. Based around a wonderful 16th-century manor house and tithe barn, we offer day, boarding and flexi-boarding from the ages of 3–13. For the children and us, this is simply a magical place to learn and grow.

At Junior King’s, we are committed to creating a nurturing, inclusive and inspiring environment where every child is encouraged to thrive both academically and socially. Pastoral care is central to our ethos, ensuring all pupils feel supported, respected and valued. We celebrate individuality and foster a strong sense of community where every child’s wellbeing is our priority.

Our nursery, housed in a beautifully converted barn on our picturesque school grounds, welcomes children from the age of 3. Here, our play-based, child-led approach sparks curiosity and joy in learning. Calm, natural classrooms are designed for discovery, and children can freely explore the garden on sunny days. A weekly baby and toddler group also provides families with a friendly introduction to our staff and setting.

The pre-prep, located in a charming Kentish oast house, provides a warm and engaging environment for children aged 4 to 7. Small class sizes and a broad curriculum are complemented by specialist lessons in French, PE, music, and dance. Daily outdoor adventures in our mini forest and Junior King’s Adventurers programme encourage creativity, confidence and a connection with nature.

Our prep school (years 3 to 8) provides a structured yet dynamic education with day, boarding and flexi-boarding options. In juniors, pupils begin transitioning to a broader curriculum. Middle school introduces subject specialists and set-based learning, while upper school prepares pupils for senior school with growing independence, maturity and ambition.

Boarding is an integral part of our community, with separate houses for children and a friendly, inclusive atmosphere supported by inter-house events and a strong pastoral team.

Creative and performing arts flourish at Junior King’s. Our music school delivers over 350 instrumental lessons weekly, with ensembles, choirs - and the renowned chamber choir performing locally and abroad. Drama encourages confidence and collaboration, with every child taking part in productions and activities, including LAMDA qualifications and the annual King’s Week festival. Our art and design departments promote self-expression, creative thinking and practical skills through hands-on projects, exhibitions and workshops with visiting artists.

With outstanding sports facilities across 22 acres, pupils explore a wide variety of sports, from rugby and fencing to rowing, cricket, netball and swimming - often led by expert coaches. Our co-curricular programme is equally rich, including young engineers’ club, riding, rowing and sailing - many led by expert coaches.

Junior King’s also offers convenient transport and a popular breakfast club to support busy families. We warmly invite you to visit and discover the unique spirit of Junior King’s.