Rochester Independent College
Star Hill, Rochester, ME1 1XF
Age range
11 to 21
Gender
Mixed
Pupils
412
Headteacher
Mr Alistair Brownlow
Type
Independent
Ofsted
Outstanding
Local authority
Medway
Sixth form
Yes
Boarding
Yes
About Rochester Independent College
Rochester Independent College is a mixed independent school based in Rochester for children aged 11 to 21. It has roughly 412 pupils on roll. On our figures that is below the typical size for an independent school in Rochester. As an independent school it is fee-paying and sits outside the local authority admissions system. There is a sixth form on site, so students can stay on for post-16 study. Boarding places are offered alongside day places. Mr Alistair Brownlow leads the school.
Inspection at a glance
At its most recent Ofsted inspection on 10 January 2008, Rochester Independent College was judged Outstanding. The full inspection report is linked from this page so you can read the inspectors' own words.
How the school is performing
At A level the published average grade is B- (2024/25). Figures come from the Department for Education's published school performance data and are shown in full further down this page.
Getting a place at Rochester Independent College
Rochester Independent College sets its own admissions. Families apply to the school directly rather than through a council application round, and places usually follow a visit, registration and the school's own assessment. Always check the current admissions policy on the school's own website before you apply, because criteria can change year to year.
SEND at a glance
Rochester Independent College is a mainstream school, supporting pupils with SEND alongside their classmates through the graduated approach of assess, plan, do, review. The school's SEN information report is the authoritative source and is linked in the SEND section below.
Rochester Independent College contact details and location
You will find Rochester Independent College at Star Hill, Rochester, Kent, ME1 1XF. The school office can be reached on 01634 828115. A map, directions and the school's own website link are on this page.
Ofsted inspection
Overall effectiveness
Ofsted's most recent visit confirmed the overall rating. It did not re-grade the individual areas.
Rochester Independent College admissions and catchment area
This is an independent school
Rochester Independent College runs its own admissions process. You apply directly to the school, usually with a registration fee, an assessment or taster day, and often an interview. Boarding places have a separate application and interview process - start early. Bursaries and scholarships may be available - ask early.
Official links
Applications go direct to the school - you do not apply through your local council.
How to apply
1. Book a visit or open day
Most independent schools want you to visit before you apply - open days and private tours are both usually offered.
2. Register with the school
Complete the school's registration form and pay the registration fee. Some schools have a waiting list a year or more ahead.
3. Assessment / taster day
Depending on age, this can be an informal assessment, a taster day in class, or a formal entrance test with an interview.
4. Offer and deposit
The school makes an offer directly. A deposit secures the place; check the terms and notice period carefully.
5. Bursaries & scholarships
Ask about means-tested bursaries and scholarships. Deadlines are often earlier than main entry.
Didn't get a place? Ask about waiting lists
Independent schools manage their own admissions. If you are not offered a place at Rochester Independent College, ask about the waiting list and whether a late application is possible.
Rochester Independent College results and attendance
KS2 results
N/A
A-Level results
Average grade · 2024/25
Attendance
N/A
Free school meals
N/A
SEND support at Rochester Independent College
SEND setting
Mainstream school
For full details, visit the school's SEND information page.
Wraparound care and nursery at Rochester Independent College
Nursery
No
Breakfast club
Please check with the school
After-school club
Please check with the school
Rochester Independent College term dates: Medway standard term dates for 2026/27
These are Medway Council's standard term dates. Your school may use different dates and INSET days, so check the school's website before making plans.
Autumn 1 · 2026
1 Sep-23 Oct
Autumn 2 · 2026
2 Nov-18 Dec
Spring 1 · 2027
4 Jan-12 Feb
Spring 2 · 2027
22 Feb-25 Mar
Summer 1 · 2027
12 Apr-28 May
Summer 2 · 2027
7 Jun-21 Jul
Rochester Independent College: frequently asked questions
How do I apply for a place at Rochester Independent College?
Rochester Independent College is independent, so you apply to the school directly rather than through a council round. Contact the admissions office to arrange a visit and register.
What is Rochester Independent College's Ofsted rating?
Ofsted rated Rochester Independent College Outstanding at its inspection on 10 January 2008. You can open the full report from the inspection section of this page.
How big is Rochester Independent College and what ages does it take?
Rochester Independent College has around 412 pupils on roll and covers ages 11 to 21. It is a mixed school taking boys and girls.
What SEND support does Rochester Independent College offer?
Rochester Independent College is recorded as a mainstream school. The school's SEN information report has the current detail and is linked in the SEND section of this page.
What are Rochester Independent College's term dates and INSET days?
Rochester Independent College follows the standard Medway pattern for 2026/27, set out term by term on this page. INSET days are set by the school itself, so confirm them on the school's own calendar.
How much are fees at Rochester Independent College?
Rochester Independent College publishes its current fees on its own website.
Where is Rochester Independent College and how do I contact the school?
Rochester Independent College is at Star Hill, Rochester, Kent, ME1 1XF. The office number is 01634 828115. A map and directions are on this page.
About this information. Compiled from published sources including the Department for Education, Ofsted and the school's own website. Last reviewed Summer 2026.
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Get my profile builtSchools near Rochester Independent College
The closest schools to ME1 1XF, measured from each school's own location.
Chatham · Grammar · 0.3 miles
Fort Pitt Grammar School
Rochester · Independent · 0.5 miles
King's School Rochester
Chatham · Secondary · 0.6 miles
St John Fisher Catholic Comprehensive School
Rochester · Grammar · 0.9 miles
The Rochester Grammar School
Rochester · Grammar · 1.0 miles
Sir Joseph Williamson's Mathematical School
Chatham · Grammar · 1.3 miles
Holcombe Grammar School
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