Birmingham
Your KES journey begins
Welcome to King Edward's School
We are delighted that your son will be joining us in September. Accepting a place at KES marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. We very much look forward to welcoming your family into our community.
Over the coming months, we will ensure that both you and your son feel confident and prepared for the start of term. From induction events to early opportunities to meet classmates, we want every boy to arrive in September feeling excited about the adventure ahead.
Kirsty von Malaisé, our Chief Master & Principal of KES & KEHS, shares a message to mark this special moment and to welcome you to KES.
Let the adventure begin: Induction Day
All new Shells (Year 7) are invited to our full induction day on:
On this day, your son will:
Meet his Form Tutor and classmates, starting the friendships that will grow throughout his time at KES
Explore the school, getting familiar with his new environment
Take part in engaging activities designed to help him feel confident and supported at school
By the end of the day, your son will feel like a valued member of the KES community - ready and excited to join us in September.
Supporting every boy from the very start
We know how important it is for every boy to feel confident and at home as he begins his KES journey.
That’s why our pastoral care starts well before the first day of term, giving new pupils opportunities to visit the school, meet classmates and start feeling part of our community.
Joining KES on your own?
Boys joining KES individually, or with just one other pupil, are invited to a special event during a school day in June.
This is a wonderful chance to meet others in a similar position and start forming early friendships. Further details will be shared by our Admissions Team.
Important information we need before joining KES
To help us prepare for your son’s arrival at KES, please could you complete the questionnaires below, which cover medical information, consent and key details by Tuesday 5 May 2026.
Connect with other KES families
Starting a new school is an exciting moment – and for many families, it’s reassuring to know others nearby are beginning the same journey.
If you would like us to introduce you to other new KES families who live nearby – whether to arrange shared travel or simply to make early connections – please complete the form.
We will only share contact details with the permission of all families involved.
Our Fees Office will be in touch shortly with details of how to arrange payment for the first term, making the process as straightforward as possible.
A few key dates to add to your diary
- Induction Day: Tuesday 30 June for all new Shells
- Admissions Ceremony: Tuesday 30 June (afternoon) for all new Shells and parents (followed by a uniform sale hosted by our Parents’ Association and uniform suppliers)
- Transition Day: Wednesday 2 September for all new Shells
- Start of school: Thursday 3 September – the adventure continues with the first day of term!
- Shells' hillwalking trip: Sunday 6 September (optional)
- KES Open Evening: Thursday 10 September – support from current pupils in meeting prospective families is always welcome
- Shells' cycling trip: Sunday 13 September (optional)
- Shells' Parents' Forum: Thursday 24 September
- Shells' residential to Castleton: Wednesday 7 October - Friday 9 October - an exciting opportunity for pupils to build new friendships (all Shells)
- October half-term: Monday 19 October – Friday 30 October (Please note this is a two-week break)
- Junior Production: Thursday 26 November and Friday 27 November - a highlight of the school calendar that Shells and their families would be more than welcome to attend
For a full overview of the school term dates for 2026-2027 please visit here.