Flourish Summer 26

FLOURISH SUMMER 2026

AGS Welcome FROM THE HEADMASTER Welcome to the Summer 2026 edition of Flourish As we reach the end of another successful academic year, it is a pleasure to welcome you to the Summer 2026 edition of Flourish. This newsletter provides just a snapshot of the remarkable range of opportunities, achievements, and experiences that have defined life at Aylesbury Grammar School over the past term.

At the heart of everything we do are our core values: Respect and Aspire. These principles are far more than words; they shape the way our students learn, lead, compete, and support one another. Throughout this edition, you will see countless examples of students showing respect for their peers, their community, and the world around them, while aspiring to achieve their very best both inside and beyond the classroom, but also in their relationships.

This term has once again demonstrated the breadth of opportunities available at the School. Students have undertaken educational visits across the UK and Europe, from geography fieldwork in the Lake District and Barton-on-Sea to history visits, biology fieldwork, language exchanges in Burgundy and Stuttgart, and a wide range of cultural and academic experiences. These visits enrich classroom learning, broaden perspectives, and encourage students to develop the confidence and curiosity to embrace new challenges.

Our students have continued to achieve at an exceptional level. The Senior Debating Team reached the Grand Final of the prestigious Speakers' Mace Competition, finishing as runners-up from a field of more than 350 schools. In STEM, students progressed to the national stage of the National Innovation Challenge with an innovative environmental project, while our linguists received national recognition through the Anthea Bell Prize for Young Translators. House Athletics once again brought the whole school together, celebrating not only outstanding performances but also teamwork, resilience, and House spirit.

Respect and Aspire are perhaps most evident in the way our students contribute beyond their own personal success.

House Charity Week raised over £4,600 for six worthy causes through an inspiring programme of student-led activities, while our Year 10 Activity Days provided valuable opportunities to learn about personal wellbeing, healthy relationships, careers, employability, and responsible decision-making. These experiences help prepare our students for the responsibilities and opportunities that lie beyond school.

As always, the end of the academic year brings both celebration and change. We congratulate our Year 11 and Year 13 students as they complete their examinations and prepare for the exciting next stages of their education and careers. We also look forward to welcoming our new Year 7 students following their Transition Days, as they begin their own AGS journey built upon the same values that have guided generations of students before them.

I would like to extend my sincere thanks to our outgoing Head Boys of School, Seb Jimenez, Thomas Barlow, and Evan Chapman, whose leadership, integrity, and commitment have been exemplary throughout the year. They have been outstanding ambassadors for the School and have embodied our values in everything they have done. I am equally delighted to congratulate our newly appointed Head Boys of School, Rami Al-Kheralla, Oscar Bennett, and Edward Johnson.

I know they will build on this legacy as they lead the student body during the coming academic year.

As you read through this edition of Flourish, I hope you enjoy celebrating the many achievements of our students and staff.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed to another exceptional year at AGS. I wish all members of our School community a restful, enjoyable summer and look forward to welcoming everyone back in September.

Mark Sturgeon, Headmaster

@AGSHeadmaster

AGS Archive NURTURING CHARACTER SINCE 1598 2023 marked the 425th Anniversary of Aylesbury Grammar School.

To commemorate this incredible milestone, we commissioned a beautifully illustrated hardback book which chronicles the rich history of our School. Books are still available, click here to secure your copy.

Furthermore, thanks to the generosity of the Aylesbury Grammar School Foundation, we have created the AGSDigitalArchive, a wonderful resource accessible to current and former students and staff.

AGS Flourish CONTENTS

6

EVENTS

12

VISITS

17

LIFE

23

STAFF

24

OLD AYLESBURIANS

26

DEVELOPMENT

AGS Events FLOURISH IN ALL YOU DO This has been another exciting term of House events, with both the Brodie and Watson competitions remaining highly competitive throughout. Well done to all students who participated during the year and a heartfelt thank you to the staff who made these events possible. Your Heads of House are incredibly grateful for your enthusiasm, commitment and support throughout the year, and wish you all a very restful summer break before the race for the Brodie and Watson trophies begins again in September.

The Brodie events continued this term with House Tennis, where Denson secured the overall victory, while Lee impressed by winning three year-group competitions and finishing second overall. This was followed by the muchanticipated House Athletics event, which was won by Lee. The event also saw several new House Athletics records set, including outstanding performances from Emeka (H8), Luca (D9), Harry (R10), Tomi (L12) and Jafar (Pa12).

The final Brodie event of the year was House Cricket, with Lee claiming overall victory when all was said and done.

When all results from the year were combined, Lee were crowned Brodie Champions for 2025–26 - congratulations!

A particular thank you goes to Mr Duggan and the PE Department for organising and running the many sporting events across the year.

The Watson competition reached its conclusion this term with House Writing, Junior House Quiz and Junior Public Speaking. House Writing once again showcased the creativity and talent of students across the school, with Paterson taking first place for their magazine based on the theme of Stars.

In the Junior House Quiz, Hampden were victorious in both Y7 and Y8, while Paterson won the Y9 competition. When combined with the Senior and Inter Quiz events from earlier in the year, Lee secured first place overall.

The final House event of the year was Junior Public Speaking, as we welcomed back Benjamin Ashton-Brown (OA Lee '16) as adjudicator. Hampden produced an exceptional performance, winning all three year-group competitions. Congratulations also go to Abyaan (Hampden 9), who was named Speaker of the Day. When combined with the Senior competition, Hampden secured first place overall in Public Speaking. Adding these results to those from earlier in the year, Hampden finished as this year's Watson Champions!

AGS Events NURTURE YOUR CHARACTER The final weeks of term have been filled with energy, teamwork and community spirit, with House events showcasing the very best of AGS. House Charities Week was a huge success, with Head Boys of House organising activities that raised an incredible £4,601 for the six House charities. Congratulations also to Josh (L13), who won the House Clash Royale tournament.

House Athletics provided another memorable day of competition, with students across all year groups demonstrating determination and sporting excellence. Congratulations to Lee House, crowned House Athletics Champions for 2025–26, and to the students who set new School records, including Luca (Denson 9), Harry (Ridley 10), Tomi (Lee 12), Emeka (Hampden 8) and Jafar (Paterson 12).

We were delighted to celebrate the achievements of our Junior students at this year’s Junior Prize Giving.

Congratulations to all award winners, and thank you to Old Aylesburian Dominic Butler (Hampden ’05) for returning as Guest of Honour and sharing an inspiring message with students and parents.

The AGS PTA Fête was a wonderful celebration of our School community, with stalls, activities and fundraising enjoyed by all. House stalls more than doubled last year’s profits, with Lee House’s “Soak a Teacher” stall raising £107.75. The event looks set to have raised enough funds to complete payment for the School’s new minibus. Thank you to the PTA, staff, students and everyone who contributed.

AGS Sport NURTURE YOUR CHARACTER A Level PE Year 12 A Level PE students enjoyed an inspiring visit to the University of Bedfordshire’s Sports Science department, exploring biomechanics, exercise physiology and elite performance through hands-on activities. The visit provided a valuable opportunity to apply classroom learning to real-world sporting contexts.

Athletics and Cross Country There were excellent performances across Athletics, Cross Country and Triathlon this term. Luca Dolan was crowned Junior Boys’ County Cross Country Champion and represented England, finishing 2nd overall. The AGS Senior Boys’ team also secured the County title, while our Athletics and Triathlon teams achieved strong results at the ESAA and School Games events.

Basketball A highly successful term for AGS Basketball, with strong performances across several age groups. The Under 13 team enjoyed a memorable Junior NBA campaign, becoming Year 8 Central Champions, while Leon Porca also won the shooting competition.

Congratulations to Crispy Harmon (Year 9), who was selected for the England Under 15 Basketball squad and later made his international debut.

Cricket AGS Cricket has enjoyed an excellent start to the season, with strong performances across all age groups in District League, County Cup and national competitions. There have been impressive individual contributions with both bat and ball, alongside notable successes including the Under 12A team reaching the County Cup Semi-Final.

Football It has been another excellent term for AGS Football, with the 1st XI winning the Under 18 Bucks Schools FA Plate at Arbour Park. The Under 15 and Under 16 teams were also crowned District Champions, while the Under 13 team secured the District League title.

Golf Our Golf teams continued to impress in competitive events, with strong individual and team performances.

Congratulations to Tobie Spilman, who won the Individual Stableford competition at Windlesham Golf Club, and to the team who won the event at Sonning Golf Club.

Handball Congratulations to our Handball teams on an outstanding season. The Under 15 team were crowned Regional Champions before finishing 4th at the England National Finals, while the Under 13 team also reached the National Finals.

Padel A historic term for AGS Padel saw the Under 15 team crowned National Champions following outstanding performances at the National Finals. Freddie, Malakai, Harry and Armaan demonstrated exceptional skill, teamwork and determination, while the Under 13 team also competed strongly at their National Finals event.

Rugby There have been many excellent achievements in Rugby this term, with students representing Buckinghamshire and Irish Qualified squads. Joe Gormally was named Player of the Match for Bucks against a Jamaica XV, while several students earned representative honours.

Rugby 7s Our Rugby 7s teams enjoyed strong performances at the Northampton Saints 7s and Rosslyn Park National Schools 7s. The Under 18 team finished second in their group at Rosslyn Park, while the Under 16 team reached the knockout stages and finished among the top 32 teams nationally.

Squash AGS Squash continues to excel at the highest level, with the Under 13, Under 14, Under 16 and Under 18 teams all qualifying for National Finals. The Under 14 team finished 4th nationally and the Under 18 team finished 5th, while Oscar earned selection for the Welsh National Squad following an outstanding performance at the Welsh National Championships.

Swimming Congratulations to Dewi Fordyce (Year 8), who won two gold medals and a silver at the Wales National Swimming Championships, achieving personal best times across all three events.

Tennis Our Tennis teams continued to represent AGS with commitment and enthusiasm this term. The Under 14 team enjoyed a number of successful fixtures, including victories against St Edward’s School and The King’s School Bruton, while all players demonstrated excellent teamwork and sportsmanship throughout the season.

Enrichment, Outreach and Recognition Our Sports Leaders supported over 180 local primary pupils at a multi-skills event, alongside opportunities including BMX, skateboarding and padel sessions. We are also delighted that AGS Sport has been awarded the School Games Gold Mark Award for 2025/26, recognising our commitment to sporting opportunity and participation.

Staff and Old Aylesburian Achievements Congratulations to Old Aylesburian Kieran Lindars, who set a new British record at Ironman Texas. We also celebrate staff achievements, including Mr Roberts, Mr Dudmish, Mr Ramsbottom, Mrs Budd and Mr Duggan for their outstanding endurance event achievements.

@AGSSportandPE

AGS Visits EMBRACE OPPORTUNITY

Over the (very hot!) bank holiday weekend, our Year 8 students enjoyed an unforgettable visit to Burgundy, immersing themselves in French language, culture, and local traditions.

The trip provided a wonderful range of experiences, including baking tartouillat, playing pétanque, circus skills, treetop adventures, exploring Chablis market, and enjoying walks through the beautiful Burgundian countryside. Students also had the opportunity to sample regional specialities, including escargots, boeuf bourguignon, and éclairs, bringing their cultural experience to a delicious conclusion. Our thanks go to all staff involved in making the trip such a memorable success, and we are already looking forward to returning in 2027.

AGS Visits EMBRACE OPPORTUNITY

During the Easter holidays, students in Years 10 and 12 enjoyed an enriching visit to Normandy, immersing themselves in French language, culture, and history from the very beginning of the trip. The itinerary combined a fantastic range of activities, from aéroballe, archery, and town trails to visits to some of the region’s most significant landmarks, including the DDay Landing Beaches, Saint-Malo, and Mont Saint-Michel. A particular highlight was the memorable Bay Walk across the tidal sands to Mont SaintMichel, where students embraced the challenge and created lasting memories. Our thanks go to all students for their enthusiasm and excellent conduct, and to Mme Roberts, Mme Malhi, Mme Jackson, and Mr Walker for making the visit such a successful experience.

This year saw another successful exchange with Crescent School in Toronto. Bennett and Justin enjoyed a memorable visit to the UK, while Rami and Daniel experienced Canadian culture, including trips to Ottawa, Montreal, Niagara Falls and beyond. We are grateful to all involved for creating such a fantastic opportunity for friendship, learning and unforgettable memories.

Before Easter, 26 Year 10 and Year 12 students took part in the joint AGS/AHS German Exchange, swapping Aylesbury for Stuttgart for a week of cultural immersion and language learning.

Students experienced life in a German school, sampled local specialities, and explored the region through a varied programme of activities, including visits to Heidelberg, the Mercedes Museum, and Europa-Park. We were delighted to welcome our German partners to Aylesbury later in the summer term, giving our students the opportunity to share their own culture and community while strengthening the friendships and connections established through the exchange.

AGS Visits NURTURE YOUR CHARACTER

Students have continued to benefit from a wide range of enrichment opportunities this term. Year 8 enjoyed both Languages Day, exploring new languages, cultures and careers, and Enterprise Day, where they worked creatively in teams to design and launch their own international airlines. Year 10 students took part in PSHE, Careers and Futures activities, developing their understanding of wellbeing, relationships, decision-making, employability, and the pathways available beyond GCSEs. Meanwhile, Year 12 students explored their next steps through our Inspirational Speakers Programme, gaining valuable advice from our Careers Advisor and Old Aylesburians on university, Degree Apprenticeships, and life beyond Sixth Form.

STEM in Action This term has seen another fantastic showcase of curiosity, creativity, and innovation across STEM at AGS. Students have embraced a wide range of hands-on experiences, from Year 7 exploring light, colour, lenses, and practical problem-solving during STEM activities, to Year 8 designing solar ovens and repairing retro games consoles while applying their understanding of renewable energy, electricity, and engineering.

Science Club also celebrated a successful year, with Sixth Form mentors inspiring younger students through exciting sessions including an immersive exploration of CERN’s particle collider using VR technology.

We were also delighted to welcome Old Aylesburian James Stones (Paterson ’89), who shared his fascinating career journey in intellectual property and patent law, demonstrating the diverse pathways available to students with a Chemistry background.

A particular highlight was the continued enthusiasm shown by students for science beyond the classroom, including Sixth Form-led Chemistry demonstrations where Year 7 students explored colour-changing reactions, reaction rates, and the chemistry behind fireworks. These activities are excellent examples of the creativity, collaboration, and scientific curiosity that continue to thrive within our STEM community.

AGS Life EMBRACE OPPORTUNITY Chess Team Success This has been a truly historic year for AGS Chess, with the team achieving its greatest success to date. Highlights included winning a team tournament at Eton College, outstanding individual performances at the Manchester Rapidplay, and improving on last year's finish at the British Team Chess Challenge by placing 9th nationally.

The standout achievement came when the AGS A Team qualified for the English Schools' Chess Championships for the first time in the School's history. After a memorable 4-2 victory over Eton A to reach the National Finals, the team went on to finish an impressive 17th in England, exceeding their starting ranking and establishing AGS among the country's strongest school chess teams. Congratulations to all the players, and thank you to Mr Dimbleby, whose dedication and support have been instrumental in the team's remarkable success throughout the year.

Rocketry Club AGS Rocketry Club demonstrated exceptional resilience at the UK Youth Rocketry Challenge regional finals in Essex. Competing under real engineering and time pressures, both teams successfully completed their official flights while overcoming unexpected technical challenges through calm problem-solving, teamwork and determination.

Despite an unfortunate altimeter malfunction preventing one of their strongest flights from being officially scored, the students produced an impressive rebuilt rocket that achieved a near-perfect launch and safe recovery. Their creativity, perseverance and technical skill embodied the spirit of the competition, and we are incredibly proud of everyone involved. Thank you to Mr Bourne, the AGS Parents and Teachers Association, and James Ross Consulting for their continued support of the programme.

Debating Team Congratulations to the AGS Debating Team, who achieved an outstanding national runners-up finish in the ESU Debating Competition, the oldest and largest debating competition in the country, involving more than 350 schools. After progressing through five demanding rounds over six months, Leo, Myles, and Seb delivered exceptional performances in the Semi-Final and Grand Final to secure 2nd place nationally. This is a remarkable achievement and a proud moment for AGS. We would like to thank Mrs Farmborough and all staff involved for their support in helping the team reach this incredible milestone.

Young Enterprise Congratulations to all of our Young Enterprise teams for their commitment, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit this year. Young Enterprise is an important part of school life, providing students with the opportunity to develop skills in teamwork, leadership, communication and innovation.

Particular congratulations go to Rootmarks and Tattletiles, who both achieved success at the Area Finals, with Rootmarks winning Best Interview and Best Innovation, and Tattiletiles receiving Best Presentation and the Sustainability Award. Both teams were named overall winners and progressed to the South Central Regional Finals.

AGS Life CELEBRATE DIFFERENCE Congratulations to Ruyan (Hampden 12), who achieved Gold in the Lincoln College, Oxford Life Sciences Essay Competition, and to students recognised in the PPE Essay Competition, showcasing the strength of independent thinking and academic ambition at AGS. Alfie (Ridley 12) and Josh (Ridley 12) have also achieved remarkable success in the National Innovation Challenge, progressing to the national finals with their innovative Sand Sweeper project, an AI-powered robot designed to help clear and sort rubbish from beaches. Their project, which began in STEM Club, demonstrates the creativity and problem-solving skills encouraged across the School.

Our students have also continued to excel in Modern Foreign Languages, with AGS receiving national recognition from the Anthea Bell Prize for Young Translators. Congratulations to Jack (Paterson 12) and Hashim (Ridley 10), who received commendations for their entries, highlighting the talent and dedication of our linguists.

Language learning has also been brought to life through a range of cultural enrichment opportunities this term. Year 7 Spanish Club students enjoyed a hands-on lunchtime session making traditional Spanish croquetas, supported by the Food & Nutrition team, while Year 12 Spanish students experienced authentic Spanish cuisine and culture during a tapas lunch at Tres Corazones in Wendover.

These activities help bring language learning beyond the classroom and allow students to explore the culture and traditions behind the language.

Mental Health Week was another highlight of the term. As ever, the Library and Librarians’ team created a fantastic programme of events and activities, providing students with opportunities to reflect, connect and focus on their wellbeing. The Library continues to be at the heart of school life, offering a welcoming space where students can come together, discover new interests and feel supported.

Celebrating Our Leavers and Welcoming New Student Leaders As we come to the end of another academic year, we celebrate our Year 11 and Year 13 students as they complete important milestones in their AGS journeys. We are delighted that the vast majority of our Year 11 students will be returning to AGS for Sixth Form, and we look forward to continuing to support them as they take the next step in their education.

For our Year 13 students, the end of the year marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter as they move on to university, apprenticeships, employment and other new adventures. They have made an enormous contribution to the life of AGS, and we are incredibly proud of their achievements, character and the many ways they have supported the wider School community. The Year 13 Leavers’ Ball and Year 11 Prom provided wonderful opportunities for students to celebrate their time at AGS and create lasting memories with friends and staff. We wish all of our leavers every success and happiness.

We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to our outgoing Head Boys, Seb Jimenez, Thomas Barlow and Evan Chapman, whose leadership, integrity and commitment have been exemplary throughout the year. They have been outstanding ambassadors for the School and have embodied our values in everything they have done. We are delighted to congratulate our newly appointed Head Boys, Rami AlKheralla, Oscar Bennett and Edward Johnson, and look forward to seeing them build on this legacy as they lead the student body during the coming academic year.

As part of their preparation for these important roles, our new senior leadership team took part in our annual Senior Leadership Training Day, gaining valuable insight into the responsibilities and opportunities that come with student leadership. Students heard from the Headmaster, Mr Sturgeon, and AGS Governor, Mr Winman, alongside sessions from Mrs Wilson and Mr Singh exploring the challenges of leadership and student responsibility. We were also delighted to welcome back members of the Class of 2026 leadership team, who shared honest reflections and advice from their experiences over the past year.

We look forward to seeing our new leadership team develop, thrive and make their own contribution to the continued success of AGS in the year ahead.

AGS Life CELEBRATE DIFFERENCE Celebrating Community, Character and Opportunity The Ben Emburey Award 2026 was a highlight of the Phillips House Phreddy Awards assembly, recognising selfless positivity, kindness and character in the finest traditions of Phillips House and AGS. Congratulations to James (Phillips 13), this year’s worthy recipient, whose outstanding leadership of House Music demonstrated exceptional organisation, maturity and care for others, creating a true sense of togetherness within the House.

We were delighted to welcome Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY) back to AGS for our annual cardiac screening programme.

A further 100 students were screened this year, bringing the total number of students who have taken part to 600. This vital initiative helps detect heart conditions early and supports our ambition to ensure every student has the opportunity to be screened before leaving AGS. The AGS PTA Fete was a fantastic celebration of our School community, with a brilliant atmosphere, sunshine and a wide range of stalls and activities. House stalls were a particular success, with Lee House taking the win thanks in part to their popular “Soak a Teacher” stall. The event looks set to have raised enough funds to complete the payment for our new School minibus, while also bringing together students, families, staff and our incoming Year 7 community. A huge thank you to everyone who helped make the day such a success.

AGS Staff SPOTLIGHT ON STAFF Farewell to Valued Members of Staff As the academic year draws to a close, we say farewell to four valued colleagues who have made a significant contribution to the life of AGS. Mrs Richards retires after more than 20 years of exceptional service, having inspired generations of students as a German teacher and provided outstanding leadership as SENDCo. Mrs Millar leaves after 15 years at AGS to take on a new role as SENDCo at another school, having made a lasting impact through her teaching, care and dedication to student support. We also thank Mrs Mawdsley for her many years of service in the Chemistry department and as a Ridley House tutor, where her knowledge, commitment and support for students were greatly valued. Finally, we say goodbye to Mr Holmes, who leaves the Mathematics department after seven years of inspiring and supporting students, including many of this year’s Year 13 leavers. We thank all four colleagues for their dedication, kindness and commitment to AGS, and wish them every happiness and success for the future.

Sharing Research and Practice Beyond AGS We are delighted to celebrate the contributions of Mr Taylor and Mrs Blunt, who recently shared AGS research and practice with colleagues from across the education sector.

At the Festival of Learning at Dr Challoner’s High School, Mr Taylor presented research into student perceptions and use of artificial intelligence, conducted in collaboration with Mrs Blunt and colleagues at Aylesbury High School. His findings explored the growing role of AI in education and offered practical recommendations for schools. Mrs Blunt also shared how AGS has developed a thriving research culture through our Flagship Research Programme, highlighting the strategies that have embedded evidence-informed practice across the School.

Mrs Blunt later presented this work at the Festival of Education at Wellington College, sharing AGS’s approach to research culture with a national audience.

We are proud to see AGS staff contributing to wider educational conversations and sharing the innovative practice that continues to shape teaching and learning across our School.

Remembering Mrs Jennifer Deay It is with great sadness that we remember Mrs Jennifer Deay, former Mathematics teacher at Aylesbury Grammar School, who passed away peacefully on 10 May 2026 at the age of 82.

Mrs Deay joined AGS around 1991 and made a lasting contribution to the School through her teaching, pastoral leadership and dedication to supporting students. As Head of Year and Head of Lower School, she played an important role in the lives of many pupils and colleagues. She also created memorable opportunities beyond the classroom through trips including visits to the Euro Space Centre and Russia. We are grateful to her son, Malcolm (Hampden ’02), for sharing this news, and our thoughts are with her family and friends.

Old AYLESBURIANS SHARING EXPERTISE Paul Rogers (Ridley ’78) Paul spoke to the Sixth Form about belief, uncertainty and happiness, drawing on themes from his new book ‘What to Believe When You Don’t’. Students engaged thoughtfully with his ideas, leaving the session inspired to reflect on their own perspectives and the world around them. We are grateful to Paul for returning to AGS and sharing his insights.

James Stones (Paterson '89) James shared his journey from studying Chemistry at AGS to a career in intellectual property and patent law. He introduced students to the diverse opportunities a scientific background can open up, challenging them to think beyond traditional career paths.

Partaap Bajwa (Lee '24) Partaap shared his experiences of studying Medicine at King’s College London, offering students valuable advice on applications, university life and preparing for a career in medicine. His practical insights and personal reflections gave aspiring medics a clearer understanding of the journey ahead.

Nicholas Moss KC (Paterson ‘91) Nicholas Moss KC, welcomed three students to Temple Garden Chambers, providing a fascinating insight into the work of a barrister and the realities of legal practice. Using the Southport Inquiry as a case study, Nick shared his expertise and encouraged students to explore the many opportunities within the legal profession.

Old AYLESBURIANS SHARING EXPERTISE Adam Woodage (Phillips '18) Adam returned to AGS for Languages Day to share how his language skills have shaped his journey, from studying Spanish to working internationally in sport and community projects. His experiences highlighted the opportunities languages can create and inspired students to embrace new cultures and challenges.

Benjamin Ashton-Brown (Lee '16) Benjamin returned to AGS as adjudicator for the House Junior Public Speaking Competition, sharing his experience of languages, education and performance. His encouragement and feedback helped inspire our students as they developed their confidence in public speaking and showcased their own ideas.

Rory Cameron-Mowat (Hampden '99) Rory returned to AGS to share his career journey in corporate finance with Business and Economics students.

Drawing on his experience at Rothschild & Co, he provided valuable insights into the financial services sector and the skills needed to succeed, inspiring students considering future careers in business and economics.

Dominic Butler (Hampden '05) Dominic returned to AGS as Guest of Honour for Junior Prize Giving, sharing his experiences and offering students thoughtful advice for their future journeys. His engaging address and reading of Desiderata provided an inspiring conclusion to the evening and celebrated the achievements of our junior students.

Old AYLESBURIANS SHARING EXPERTISE Dan Whymark (Lee ’05) Dan returned to AGS as part of our Inspirational Speakers Programme, sharing his journey in the global sports industry with Year 12 students. His insights into career pathways, embracing opportunities and developing skills beyond the classroom provided valuable guidance for students considering their futures.

Ismail Zaffar (Lee ’25), Abshly Shaji (Denson ’23) and Ali Shahzad (Denson ’25) Three recent Old Aylesburians, Ismail, Abshly and Ali, returned to AGS to share their experiences of post-18 pathways. Offering practical advice on applications, interviews and decision-making, they helped Year 12 students explore the different routes available after Sixth Form.

Ted Hill (Phillips ’12) reaches the final of BGT Ted reached the final of Britain’s Got Talent, impressing audiences with his original style of comedy and distinctive performances. His success on the national stage reflects his creativity and determination, and we are incredibly proud of his achievements. We wish Ted every success for the future.

Sharing of Expertise: Old Aylesburians Return to Inspire the Next Generation Sixteen OA’s; Dominic Beattie, Ish Chakraborty, Alex Davis, Tom Ellis, Shaun Fernandes, Eliott Godley, Gabe Gullidge, Dhruva Menon, Gabriel Moukli, Emmanuel Odunsi, Theo Russell, Ryan Sara, William Smith, Fitz Steger-Lewis, Toby Webster and Joe Youens-Brown, returned to AGS for our Sharing of Expertise event with Year 12 students.

Sharing their experiences of university, apprenticeships and careers, they provided honest advice on decision-making, applications and the challenges of life after school. Their varied journeys gave students valuable insight into the many pathways available and highlighted the strength of the Old Aylesburian network.

AGS Development INVEST IN OUR FUTURE

AGS Community Events Donor Afternoon Tea We were delighted to welcome members of the AGS community to our annual Donor Afternoon Tea on 14 July, celebrating the generosity of those who support the School through their time, expertise, resources and financial contributions.

Guests heard from Headmaster Mark Sturgeon and students Ethan (Hampden 7), Elvis (Hampden 7) and Jaiden (Lee 12), who spoke brilliantly about the impact of philanthropy and the opportunities it helps create for current students. It was wonderful to meet a mix of parents, former parents, Old Aylesburians and friends of AGS, and we are incredibly grateful for their continued support. We look forward to welcoming our community back again next year.

AGS Golf Day 2026 The AGS Golf Day 2026 brought together Old Aylesburians, parents, students, staff and friends for a fantastic day of competition and community at Chiltern Forest Golf Club.

Thank you to everyone who took part, with special thanks to Iain Digby, Chris Duggan, our sponsors and prize contributors for making the event such a success. Congratulations to all of our winners and we look forward to welcoming everyone back in 2027.

DONATE HERE!

The Aylesburian Annual Fund The Aylesburian Annual Fund supports the School’s most urgent and immediate priorities.

Previous donations have made a real impact, enabling the refurbishment of the Art, DT and Engineering building, the renovation of PE classrooms for GCSE and A Level teaching, and the creation of a modern, welcoming Student Support area.

This year, our priority is the upgrade of school toilets, ensuring all students have access to clean, comfortable facilities that directly support their wellbeing and daily experience.

Every contribution, regardless of size, has a direct and meaningful impact on life at AGS. Your support truly matters.

👉 Click here to donate to The Aylesburian Annual Fund Inscribe a Plaque – Celebrate Their Journey Families, current students, and Old Aylesburians can commemorate their time at AGS by inscribing a personalised plaque in the Sixth Form Centre. This initiative provides a lasting tribute while supporting the School, creating a meaningful connection between the AGS community and the fabric of the School. To inscribe a plaque, please contact: development@ags.bucks.sch.uk

AGS Aspire & Interview Support A single conversation can change a young person’s perspective. Three could help shape their future.

You don’t have to be an

We’re looking for volunteers from the AGS community to become AGS Aspire mentors for Sixth Form students.

OA to help! If you would like to get involved, be it part of our Inspirational

The commitment is simple: just three online meetings across the academic year (30–45 minutes each). Share your experiences of university, careers, apprenticeships or life beyond school and help a student take their next step with confidence.

Speakers Programme, offering careers advice or mentoring at one our OA events, please get in

Please complete our Mentor Expression of Interest Form below and join the AGS Aspire mentoring community: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeM_HCfUgkLOk40uigms17IL2CPTyQyekVERxhz2V4VhR2Iw/viewform?usp=header

touch at development@ags.bucks.sch.uk

@OldAYLESBURIANS