This is based on the fact that St Augustine founded an abbey (within the current school's grounds) where it is known that teaching took place.
Cardinal Pole moved the school to the Mint Yard and acquired the Almonry building, which was in use for over 300 years.
[3] When Canon John "Fred" Shirley became headmaster in 1935 the school was suffering from the effects of the depression.
The school received a new Royal Charter from King George VI and Queen Elizabeth in 1946.
[6] The inspection team praised the "outstanding academic results" and the pupils' integrity, self-assurance, and "generosity of spirit".
King's has many traditions including:A festival of arts, held during the last week of the summer term, introduced by Fred Shirley in 1952.
[12] The week has featured over 100 events, ranging from classical concerts to theatre performances, held in locations around Canterbury.
JKS is now located at Milner Court in Sturry, having been originally based in the crypt of Canterbury Cathedral.
The buildings on site were opened by Rudyard Kipling in 1929, in his capacity as a close friend of Alfred Milner.