History

A Journey Through Time: The Story of King’s School Taunton

King’s School Taunton stands as a beacon of educational excellence and tradition, with its roots deeply embedded in the late 19th century. This institution, encompassing both King’s College and King’s College Preparatory School, carries a rich narrative that echoes the vision of its founder and the legacy of centuries past.

King’s College: The Foundation of Excellence

The establishment of King’s College in Taunton in 1880 came from the forward-thinking mind of Canon Nathaniel Woodard, a clergyman dedicated to modern education aligned with Christian values. Initially known as King Alfred’s College, it became the fifth of the Woodard schools. The campus that King’s College calls home was once Taunton Grammar School, whose designs by Charles Edmund Giles were repurposed for the new college. The pelican badge of Bishop Richard Fox was chosen to represent King’s College, connecting the past with the present. The school’s name for its alumni, Old Aluredians, serves as a homage to King Alfred, further tying its identity to historical figures.

Central to the school’s heritage is its Chapel, a project that began in 1903. Inspired by the dedication of Provost Prebendary Henry Meynell and supported by prominent figures like the Marquess of Salisbury, the Chapel stands as a testament to the school’s values and traditions. Through decades of evolution, King’s College has remained steadfast in its commitment to holistic education, now welcoming approximately 450 co-educational students within its historic walls.

King’s College Preparatory School: A Modern Tradition

What began in 1953 as the boys’ Junior House of King’s College has transformed into the present-day King’s College Preparatory School, a name adopted in 2023 from its previous title, King’s Hall School. Housed in the historical Pyrland Hall, a Grade II listed building, the prep school integrates both boys and girls, resonating with the ethos of inclusivity and co-education. Sharing the motto “Fortis et Fidelis” with its senior counterpart, King’s College Prep caters to around 320 pupils, offering both day and boarding options that embody the school’s commitment to fostering a strong and faithful community.

Extending Beyond Academics

Both schools pride themselves on their extensive facilities and a co-curricular program designed to enrich the educational experience of every student. From an off-site equestrian center to an adventure playground, pupils have the opportunity to explore and excel in a variety of activities. This co-curricular emphasis ensures a well-rounded development, encouraging students to pursue excellence outside the traditional classroom setting.

The boarding ethos of King’s School Taunton underscores a community spirit that seamlessly integrates day students with boarders. Small enough to preserve a sense of closeness yet ample to offer competitive opportunities, both institutions champion the nurturing of individual potential, underpinned by values of kindness, consideration, and diligence.

In sum, the journey of King’s School Taunton from its 19th-century origins to the present day reflects a lineage of educational leadership grounded in tradition yet forward-looking in its approach to learning and community building.