Credit: All photos kindly provided by Kingswood School
Overview
Kingswood School in Bath uniquely combines countryside serenity with city accessibility, situated on 120 acres of picturesque land just under two hours by train from London. Founded by the Methodist, John Wesley, this co-educational institution serves 900 students, aged 11 to 18, with a linked prep school and diverse student body representing 23 different countries, enriching the school’s cultural environment.
Kingswood offers day schooling, alongside flexible boarding options. As part of the Kingswood Foundation, the school includes a Prep and Nursey School on the same campus. The state-of-the-art Nursery welcomes children from 9 months old and is open for 45 weeks of the year, providing a nurturing and enriching environment where children can develop, learn and play.
Focused on fostering a holistic and inclusive community, students are able to develop their confidence and personal motivation, allowing them to reach their full potential. By encouraging a broad and balanced education, Kingswood aims to cultivate not only academic excellence but also the social, moral and personal development of each student. This comprehensive approach ensures students are well-prepared to face the real world with resilience and kindness.
Academic Ethos
Kingswood School is dedicated to fostering holistic development in its students, placing a strong emphasis on personal growth, responsibility, service, and a commitment to academic excellence.
Admissions for years 7 and 8 involve assessments in maths, English, and non-verbal reasoning, with additional subjects for years 9 and 10. Sixth form entry requires specific GCSE grades and an interview with the head.
The school offers a diverse curriculum of 20 GCSE subjects and 23 at A Level, including traditional and modern disciplines, such as computing, design and technology, economics, politics, psychology, drama, theatre studies and sports BTEC Level 3. Social sciences and the arts are popular, with biology performing exceptionally well. Students can combine an art with two sciences. Maximum class sizes are 24 in years 7-8, 20 in years 9-11 and 14 in the sixth form, with ability-based sets in Maths and English.
At A-Level, Kingswood demonstrates impressive academic results with over 50% of students achieving A* or A grades, and 83% attaining A*-B grades. The school maintains a 100% pass rate, reflecting their commitment to supporting all students in achieving their academic goals. Furthermore, Kingswood prepares their students for higher education, with 90% successfully securing places at their preferred universities, often within the prestigious Russell Group. Popular destinations include Exeter and Birmingham, with Nottingham, Cardiff, Manchester, Southampton and Leeds, also frequently chosen. In 2023, nine students secured places in medical schools, while three gained admissions to Oxbridge.
Facilities
Kingswood School features an expansive campus that blends traditional 1920s buildings contrasted with contemporary classrooms. Students have access to three big AstroTurf’s, tennis and netball courts, a strength and conditioning gym, a spacious theatre and Harry Potter themed dining hall. The campus also offers a dedicated art and design studio tailored for enthusiastic art students.
Co-Curriculars
At Kingswood, students engage in a rich tapestry of over 100 extracurricular activities, encompassing sports, music, drama, and the Duke of Edinburgh Award.
The music department, fondly regarded as a sanctuary by pupils, provides 240 individual lessons weekly, alongside numerous choirs, orchestras, and ensembles. Students showcase their talents in various venues, from school events to Bath Abbey and regional festivals. Drama thrives in the school’s 366-seat theatre, hosting two major productions annually and the recent addition of LAMDA exams.
Kingswood’s sporting ethos is inclusive yet competitive, catering to casual participants and elite athletes alike. The school’s impressive 57-acre campus boasts extensive facilities, including astro fields, an athletics track, and cross-country trails. With 30 active weekly teams and strong links to Bath’s city and university clubs, students have ample opportunities to excel in sports at national and international levels. Popular sports include rugby, hockey, cricket, athletics, tennis, netball and basketball. This comprehensive approach to extracurricular activities complements Kingswood’s academic rigour, ensuring students develop a broad range of skills and interests during their educational journey.
Boarding
Kingswood School provides a variety of boarding arrangements, including full, weekly and flexi boarding, accommodating 140 boarders across five well-appointed boarding houses. Each house is managed by a House Parent and supported by a dedicated team of matrons and tutors who ensure to provide daily care and support. There are no exeat weekends, allowing students to experience continuous community life at the school. With dedicated house staff and exciting weekend adventures, students can apply to board from the age of 11, ensuring a nurturing and enriching experience. The boarding houses have a blend of traditional and modern decor, while gradually undergoing renovations to include outdoor decking, ensuite bathrooms and state-of-the-art technology.
Pastoral care is exemplary at Kingswood, infused with inclusivity and kindness. While an academically achieving school, a holistic approach to students’ wellbeing and personal development is provided. Lots of mental health support is available with the health and wellness centre always open, a mindfulness programme with integrated yoga, counsellors on-site and visible safeguarding staff.
Summary
Overall, Kingswood is committed to academic excellence while fostering a supportive and inclusive atmosphere. The school prepares students for successful careers, but it’s focus extends beyond academics. For those seeking to excel in co-curricular activities, Kingswood offers opportunities for holistic development. Kingswood stands out for their comprehensive approach to education combining rigorous academic standard with a nurturing environment encouraging personal and intellectual growth. Providing the best of both worlds, the school boasts a serene countryside setting with easy access to the city centre.
