East Kent Schools Together is an innovative partnership comprising independent schools, state secondary schools, and universities across East Kent. Established in 2017, the association operates on a principle of "equal footing," aiming to raise student aspirations and widen horizons through cross-sector collaboration. Its governance is managed by a central Heads' Group and a Management Group, supported by a Student Voice initiative. Key activities focus on enhancing teacher professional development, sharing resources, and improving pupil well-being and resilience through joint academic, cultural, and sporting events that bridge diverse socio-economic backgrounds.
EKST Member Schools (6)
Dover College is a co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 3 to 18, located in Dover, Kent. Founded in 1871, the school occupies the historic site of the 12th-century Benedictine Priory of St Martin. Its campus features remarkable medieval architecture, including a Grade II* listed refectory and a chapel converted from the former priory guest house. The college follows a "Thinking School" approach, encouraging independent enquiry and creative problem-solving. Facilities include an AstroTurf pitch, a fitness suite, and a dedicated music room housed within the original priory gatehouse.
Junior King’s School is a co-educational day and boarding preparatory school for pupils aged 3 to 13, situated on the Milner Court estate in Sturry, Kent. Set within 80 acres along the River Stour, the campus features a 16th-century manor house and a historic tithe barn. The school serves as the junior department of The King’s School, Canterbury, offering a curriculum that balances academic study with music, sport, and performing arts. Facilities include a dedicated music school, a sports hall, and a heated outdoor swimming pool.
Northbourne Park School is a co-educational day and boarding preparatory school for children aged 2 to 13, situated in 100 acres of parkland near Deal. The school operates across two historic sites: Betteshanger House, which accommodates the Prep school and boarding houses, and the Old Rectory for the Pre-Prep. Emphasising an outdoor-focused education, the school features a unique bilingual programme, the Section Française Bilingue. Facilities include a 13th-century church, a floodlit all-weather pitch, and extensive woodlands used for its Forest School and leadership programmes.
St Edmund's School Canterbury is a co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 2 to 18. Set within 62 acres on St Thomas' Hill, the school overlooks the historic city and its cathedral. Founded in 1749, it occupies a Grade II listed main building designed by Philip Charles Hardwick. The school is notably the place of education for the Choristers of Canterbury Cathedral. Its ethos emphasises individuality and creativity, supported by facilities including a dedicated performing arts centre, music school, and a 25-metre heated outdoor swimming pool.
St Lawrence College is a co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 3 to 18, situated on a spacious campus in Ramsgate, Kent. Established in 1879, the school is within walking distance of the coast and maintains a strong Christian ethos rooted in its founding traditions. Facilities include a 500-seat theatre, an indoor swimming pool, and a water-based hockey pitch. The college combines historic Victorian architecture with modern additions, such as a specialist Science, Art, and Technology centre, while fostering a supportive community for its local and international pupils.
The King's School Canterbury is a co-educational day and boarding school for pupils aged 13 to 18, situated within the Precincts of Canterbury Cathedral. Founded in 597 AD, it is widely considered the oldest school in the world. The school occupies a UNESCO World Heritage site, incorporating historic medieval buildings alongside modern facilities such as the Malthouse Theatre and the Birley Centre for music. Its ethos focuses on holistic development, offering a traditional academic curriculum complemented by extensive programmes in sport and the arts, all set within a unique scholarly environment.