The King's School was honoured to welcome Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal on Tuesday 29 September 2026 as she officially launched Newton 300, our year-long programme commemorating 300 years since the death of Sir Isaac Newton, the school's most distinguished former pupil. 

The royal visit provided a fitting beginning to a landmark year for the School and the wider Grantham community as we celebrate the life, legacy and enduring influence of one of history's greatest scientific minds. More than three centuries after Newton walked the corridors of King's as a pupil, his story continues to inspire successive generations of young people to explore, discover and achieve.

During her visit, The Princess Royal met students and staff from across the School, learning about their academic studies and the many ways they contribute to school life through sport, music, leadership, the Combined Cadet Force and a wide range of co-curricular activities. She also visited one of the School's newly renovated physics laboratories, where she met students pursuing the scientific curiosity and ambition for which Newton himself became renowned. 

Those present were struck by Her Royal Highness's knowledge of the School and her genuine interest in the people she met. Throughout the afternoon, she took time to engage with students, staff and guests, creating what will undoubtedly remain a cherished memory for many within the King's community. 

The visit concluded with a formal ceremony in which Simon Pickett, Head Master, thanked The Princess Royal on behalf of the governors, staff, students and friends of the School. Her Royal Highness then signed the visitors' book and unveiled a commemorative plaque to mark the occasion. 

In a particularly meaningful moment, Head Boy William presented The Princess Royal with a photograph of her father, the late Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, planting the School's Newton Apple Tree, a lasting connection between the School and the Royal Family. 

Speaking during the ceremony, Mr Pickett reflected on the significance of the day, noting that while The King's School has welcomed many distinguished visitors throughout its near 500-year history, few occasions would be remembered with such warmth. He also highlighted the School's enduring belief that the ambitions of a single young person can change the world, just as Newton's did centuries ago. 

Newton 300 will continue throughout the 2026-27 academic year with an ambitious programme of events, partnerships and educational opportunities celebrating Newton's extraordinary contribution to science and discovery. As the School looks ahead to its 500th anniversary in 2028, the celebrations provide an opportunity not only to honour our heritage but also to inspire future generations of King's pupils to pursue their own potential with curiosity, determination and ambition.

For alumni around the world, the visit served as a proud reminder of the unique place The King's School continues to hold at the heart of the Newton story and of the enduring legacy shared by all those who have been part of the King's community.