Overview

Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School (QEGS) in Faversham is a high-achieving, co-educational selective school with a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and a strong community ethos. As one of Kent’s prestigious grammar schools, it offers a broad curriculum, excellent pastoral care, and an impressive range of extracurricular activities.

1. Academic Excellence and Specialisms

QEGS consistently ranks among the top-performing schools in Kent, with excellent GCSE and A-level results. The school prides itself on nurturing a culture of high achievement, with students regularly progressing to top universities, including Oxbridge and Russell Group institutions. The school was awarded Specialist Status in Mathematics and Computing in 2005, followed by an additional specialism in Modern Languages in 2009. While specialist school status is no longer part of national education policy, these subjects remain a key strength at QEGS, reflected in high attainment levels and well-equipped facilities.

2. A Historic Grammar School with Royal Patronage

The school traces its origins back to 1527, originally founded as Faversham Grammar School by John Cole. It was re-established in 1576 under a Royal Charter from Queen Elizabeth I, giving the school its distinctive name. Over the centuries, QEGS has evolved from a boys-only grammar into Kent’s first co-educational grammar school in 1967, following the merger of the separate boys’ and girls’ schools. Today, it blends academic tradition with modern educational practices, offering an inspiring learning environment within a historic setting.

3. A Supportive and Inclusive House System

QEGS has a house system designed to foster teamwork, leadership, and school spirit. The five houses—Q, E, G, S, and F—are named after key elements of the school’s history and each has its own colour. Students compete in house events, including sports tournaments, quizzes, and charity initiatives, helping to create a close-knit school community. This system ensures that every student, regardless of year group, feels part of a wider family within the school.

4. Broad Enrichment and Extracurricular Activities

Beyond academics, QEGS offers a rich programme of clubs, trips, and activities to develop students’ skills and interests. Music and drama play a significant role in school life, with regular concerts, theatre productions, and an annual school musical. Sporting opportunities are also excellent, with teams competing at regional and national levels in rugby, netball, athletics, and more. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme is popular, encouraging students to build resilience and independence through outdoor expeditions. International trips to destinations such as France, Germany, and Spain further enhance learning opportunities beyond the classroom.

5. Notable Alumni and Community Links

QEGS has produced several notable alumni across different fields. Sir Harry Batterbee, a respected diplomat and the first British High Commissioner to New Zealand, attended the school. More recently, Isaac Hempstead Wright, known for his role as Bran Stark in Game of Thrones, was a student at QEGS. The school maintains strong links with the local community, working closely with businesses, universities, and cultural institutions to offer students valuable experiences and career insights.

Final Thoughts

Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School, Faversham, offers a blend of academic rigour, historic charm, and modern opportunities. It provides an excellent education in a supportive and aspirational environment, making it a top choice for families seeking a selective grammar school in Kent. With outstanding results, a vibrant extracurricular programme, and a strong sense of tradition, QEGS continues to be one of the region’s most respected schools.