King's College, Taunton
History
King's College, Taunton, is a British independent school located in the county town of Taunton in Somerset. The school was founded in 1880 as a boys' boarding school, but has since become co-educational and offers both day and boarding options. The school is part of the Woodard Corporation, a group of Anglican schools founded by Nathaniel Woodard in the 19th century.
The school was originally established as All Saints' School, Taunton, and was located in the centre of the town. In 1930, the school moved to its current location on South Road and was renamed King's College. The move allowed for the expansion of the school's facilities, including the construction of a chapel, a library, and several academic and boarding houses.
Academic Program
King's College follows the English National Curriculum, offering a broad range of subjects at both GCSE and A-Level. The school is known for its strong academic record, with students regularly gaining places at top universities in the UK and abroad. The school also offers the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), which allows students to conduct independent research on a topic of their choice.
In addition to its academic program, King's College also places a strong emphasis on pastoral care. The school operates a house system, with each student belonging to one of six houses. The houses compete in various events throughout the year, including sports competitions and academic challenges. The house system also provides a support network for students, with older students acting as mentors to younger ones.
Extracurricular Activities
King's College offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, drama, and art. The school has a strong sporting tradition, with teams competing in rugby, cricket, hockey, netball, and athletics. The school's sports facilities include a sports hall, a swimming pool, tennis courts, and playing fields.
The school also has a strong music and drama program, with regular performances and concerts throughout the year. Students have the opportunity to participate in a variety of ensembles, including orchestras, choirs, and bands. The school's drama department puts on several productions each year, ranging from classic plays to contemporary works.
Admissions and Fees
Admission to King's College is selective, with prospective students required to pass an entrance examination and interview. The school also offers a number of scholarships and bursaries, based on academic merit and financial need.
The fees at King's College are in line with those at other independent schools in the UK. Fees vary depending on whether a student is a day student or a boarder, and whether they are in the junior or senior school. The school offers a number of payment options, including termly and annual payments.
Notable Alumni
King's College has produced a number of notable alumni, including politicians, business leaders, and athletes. These include Sir Richard Dearlove, former head of the British Secret Intelligence Service (MI6), and Tom Abell, a professional cricketer who plays for Somerset County Cricket Club.