Kingston Grammar School, known locally as KGS, is one of the most sought-after independent schools in south-west London. If you’re weighing up secondary options, here are five things worth knowing, including a deadline that’s coming up fast.
1. Its history goes back more than 450 years
The school was founded in 1561 when Kingston’s bailiffs petitioned Queen Elizabeth I for a royal grammar school, and records of schoolmasters in the town go back even further, to the 1270s. The school still uses the medieval Lovekyn Chapel, a Grade II* listed building that is the oldest complete structure in Kingston.
2. It’s a co-educational day school in the heart of Kingston
KGS educates boys and girls aged 11 to 18 on London Road, right in the centre of Kingston upon Thames, with excellent transport links. There’s no boarding, so it’s a genuinely local school community.
3. Academic results are among the best in the country
In the 2026 Sunday Times School League Table, KGS ranked 30th among UK private schools and 34th overall out of more than 4,000 schools. The school has a reputation for being ambitious without being an exam factory, and it prides itself on its pastoral care.
4. Hockey and rowing are big
KGS is especially well known for hockey and rowing, with its own boathouse on the Thames. The school says it ranks fifth for producing sporting internationals and third for producing Olympians, a remarkable record for a day school.
5. 11+ registration for 2027 closes on 5 October
If your child is in Year 6 and you’re considering KGS for September 2027, act now. The key dates are:
- Registration deadline: Monday 5 October 2026
- Entrance exams (English and maths): Friday 6 November 2026
- Interviews: Tuesday 5 January 2027
- Offers emailed: Friday 12 February 2027
- Acceptance deadline: Wednesday 3 March 2027
The interview is designed as a relaxed conversation about your child’s interests, and the school actively discourages interview coaching.
Find out more
Kingston Grammar School, London Road, Kingston upon Thames KT2 6PY. Full admissions details, fees and bursary information are at kgs.org.uk.