King's College Taunton
King's College Taunton
Taunton, England
King’s College Taunton is one of the most charming boarding schools we know in England. The school is located in the picturesque county of Somerset in southwest England. The strong boarding community, supportive teachers and very friendly headmaster make King’s College Taunton particularly attractive. Additionally, the school offers a strong sports programme, with boys’ and girls’ football and the brand-new riding centre being especially noteworthy. But that’s by no means all: the music and art offerings here are truly outstanding!
The Details
The Academics
GCSEs and A Levels are standard here, and there are no entrance requirements – making the 2024 results all the more remarkable: 41 percent of GCSEs graded 9 to 7, 27 percent A or A* at A Level (54 percent A to B)**. In 2023, the figures were even higher, with 38 percent 9 to 7 at GCSE and a strong 71 percent A* to B – impressive for a non-selective school.
STEM is a real strength: in 2024, a pupil was awarded the Arkwright Engineering Scholarship. Many graduates go on to top universities for engineering and architecture.
The new Sixth Form Centre is simply stunning: light-filled, lots of wood and white, underfloor heating – plus a café, quiet zones, silent study areas, and a social club on Saturdays. It hardly gets more university-like than this.
Languages Taught
German, English as a Foreign Language, French, Latin and Spanish.
The Boarding
Over half the pupils are full boarders, spread across seven boarding houses – four for boys, three for girls. The houses organise their own charity events, concerts, shows and formal dinners. Internal competitions and events regularly foster house spirit and sporting ambition.
The houses themselves are not ultra-modern but cosy and full of character – somewhat like well-established Art Nouveau villas with British flair. Weekends are packed with a varied programme: outings, camps, creative workshops – and for those who like, exploring Taunton, which is right on the doorstep.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
King’s College Taunton boasts a strong and varied sports programme – with football and hockey being real highlights. The riding stables make another sporting statement. Cricket, tennis, swimming, golf, climbing and athletics are also well established, with many pupils active in multiple sports. The school’s work with top coaches and former professionals in cricket rounds off the impressive sports offering.
The creative facilities at King’s are impressive: new music and art rooms, a well-equipped Design & Technology Centre – anyone keen on creating, tinkering or making music will find everything they need here.
We love the school’s location. Somerset is beautiful and offers some of the best beaches in England. Thanks to its location in the town of Taunton, pupils have access to a nice, safe town for shopping and cinema visits.
What many immediately notice: the atmosphere is warm and personal, with teachers who are committed and genuinely caring. It’s no surprise that almost everyone feels at home from day one.
Weaknesses
Currently, there are no downsides that we know of.
Location
King’s College Taunton is located in Somerset, right on the edge of the charming, historic market town of Taunton (population approx. 100,000), which also serves as a regional hub with good connections to Exeter, Bristol, and London.
London Paddington Station - 2 hrs 30 mins by car
A great school we truly recommend to everyone.
Despite plenty of space and a green campus feel, King’s almost feels rural – yet it is anything but isolated. The location is ideal, especially for older pupils who enjoy spending time in town. I
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