King's Ely

School Description

Set in the shadow of one of the most magnificent cathedrals in the world, and just a stone’s throw from world-famous Cambridge University, King’s Ely is a co-educational independent private boarding school which consistently produces excellent academic results. Over 90% of leavers gain entry to their first choice universities, with many progressing to study at Russell Group institutions as well as top universities around Europe, the USA and Asia. Students aged 11-18 are welcomed to the school and encouraged to take risks in their learning, pushing themselves beyond the boundaries of their expectations to discover more about the world around them and, in turn, more about themselves. Small class sizes mean that teachers know students as individuals and provide the support, guidance and challenge that they need in order to learn effectively and succeed in life.

Facilities
A five-minute walk from the school takes students to the tranquil setting of the Great Ouse river and the King’s Ely Boathouse. From here, they can enjoy and benefit from one of the best stretches of river in the UK, alongside rowers from Cambridge University. London can be reached by train in under one hour. Many of the monastic buildings in which students work, live and play are centuries old, allowing them to brush shoulders with the past and experience the awe-inspiring craftsmanship of times gone by on a daily basis, whilst still having access to state-of-the-art learning and activity facilities. The Gibson Music School is a purpose-built centre which contains a recital hall, several practice rooms, a classroom and two music technology rooms. Sporting facilities include an AstroTurf pitch, swimming pool, tennis courts, sports hall and several outdoor pitches.

Sports & Arts
Everyone at King’s Ely is passionate about sport and staff believe that all students should enjoy a wide range of sporting experiences alongside their academic studies. Elite sports students receive an outstanding programme of specialist coaching and students who pursue sports outside school are also supported, with many going on to represent their counties, regions and even their country at a professional level. The school boasts an Olympian and a Great Britain Gold Medallist Rower amongst its alumni. Students are equally encouraged to take part in drama, music and arts activities such as joining an orchestra, performing on-stage in the school’s annual music festival and theatre productions, or creating artwork to enter into national exhibitions. A wide range of clubs and societies are open to students, offering something for everyone.

Dormitories and Student Life
The boarding community at King’s Ely is vibrant and diverse. British and international students from around the world are able to live, work and socialise together, sharing all aspects of school and boarding house life. The dynamic boarding environment encourages pupils to live their lives to the full. This could be competing in an inter-House sports match, acting in a drama production or singing in a choir in Ely Cathedral. Boarders appreciate what it means to be part of a highly supportive community and actively encourage each other to achieve their potential.