Envision a place where education intertwines seamlessly with musical tradition. This is King’s College School. Founded in 1441 by King Henry VI, the school’s original mission was to educate the choristers of King’s College Chapel. While it has evolved over the centuries, King’s College School maintains a strong link to the chapel and its renowned choir.
King’s College School is situated on West Road. It is a coeducational private preparatory school for pupils aged 4 to 13. Though no longer on college grounds, the school remains an integral part of the Chapel’s musical tradition. It receives some funding from the College. King’s College School shares historical roots with Eton College.
Let’s journey back to the 15th century. King Henry VI established King’s College in 1441. By 1447, sixteen choristers were singing in the chapel. These boys were likely taught by a fellow until 1456. In that year, Robert Brantham became the first Informator Chorustarum or Master over the Choristers. School rooms existed as early as 1557. A Marian visitation noted the “chorusters chamber and schole”. Some books considered unsuitable were removed.
King’s College School has moved several times since its beginning. By 1693, it was located southeast of the chapel. It stood next to King’s Parade. This building was replaced in 1693. The new building was called the New Brick Building. It housed the school until the 19th century. During rebuilding by William Wilkins in the 1820s, the brick building was torn down. This demolition opened up a view of the chapel from the street. You can still see the outline of the foundations during hot, dry weather.
In 1828, the Wilkins building opened. It stands on the south side of the court opposite the chapel. The school was housed in rooms within it. In the 1870s, musical standards improved in other English choirs. So, a boarding house was established to accommodate choristers from outside Cambridge. This boarding house opened on the current site in West Road in 1878. By 1880, all sixteen choristers were boarders. There were also eight non-chorister day pupils. This number increased over time.
Girls were admitted to King’s College School beginning in 1976. As the school grew, a pre-preparatory department was established.
Today, King’s College School continues its commitment to a well-rounded education. The school has a house system similar to many British schools. Pupils are placed into one of four houses. These houses are named after surrounding roads or paths. Inter-house competitions take place throughout the year. They include sports and academics. Merits are awarded for good work. The house with the highest average merits wins a house party each term.
King’s College School also maintains links with other schools. Since 2007, it has had a link project with Sri Siddharta Dikkumbura school in Sri Lanka. This began as a response to the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami. It has evolved into an academic link. There are teacher exchanges and exchanges of student work. King’s often raises funds and sends equipment to the school in Sri Lanka.
King’s College School has a rich history. It has produced many notable alumni. These include William Cosyn, Dean of Wells. Also, John Hullyer, a clergyman burned at the stake. Orlando Gibbons, a composer. Michael Ramsey, Archbishop of Canterbury. Andrew Wiles, a mathematician.
As our tour concludes, consider the legacy of King’s College School. It is a place where tradition and innovation meet. The school continues to nurture young minds. It fosters a love of learning and music. King’s College School remains a vital part of Cambridge.