The Cantuarian 2025

The Cantuarian 2025

CANTUARIAN | 2025

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Front Cover: KiDaCo (see page 54). Inside Cover: Music (page 104) 2

CANTUARIAN | 2025

CONTENTS The Captain’s Speech Thomas Sturges 6 Chaplain’s Chapter Lucy Sullivan 8 King’s News 10 Under New Management 12 Pupil Futures Hannah Warwicker 16 Purple Patch Purples 18 Pupil Achievements 22 House Pages 24 Clubs & Societies 42 Visiting Speakers 49 CCF Lily Robertson 50 Drama & Dance 54 Art Uliana Kushkova 72 Art Exhibition 76 My Art Anthony Liu 80 Young Enterprise Xintang Nong 82 Extended Qualification Projects 84 TED Talks 90 The First King’s Week 92 Shell Shock Alexa Blinston-Jones 95 Dear Remove Daniel Adegbuyi-Jackson 96 Fifth Gear Chloe Hay 97 Dear 6b Dora Wang 98 Sebastian Barker Poetry Prize Winner Ethan Sparey 100 Maugham Short Story Prize Winner Milly Cordeaux 102 Music Pani Cochrane 104 Symphony No. 5 Charley Woodhead 110 Sport Theodora Caser & Lutendo Nematswerani 118 Badminton Nick Lamb 122 Trips 124 Venice Uliana Kushkova 126 South Africa Biology Pupils 128 Corfu Literary Festival Honor Fox 132 Duke of Edinburgh Julia Wu 134 Running Wild Sofia Blinston-Jones 135 The King’s Association Molly Burgess 136 Charter Awards Bryony Dutta 139 OKS 140 Malaise to Momentum Matthew Key 142 Food Miles Amanda Ursell 146 Dissolution Luca Sand 148 DEI at King’s Ben Mearhart 151 Tradition & Tech Simon Carnell 152 King’s Week 154 Obituary: The Very Reverend Dr Robert Willis Mark Taylor 160 Obituary: Andrew McFall Lynda Horn 162 Salvete 164 Valete 170

CONTRIBUTORS Editor Anthony Lyons Photographers Matt McArdle and Anthony Lyons Designer Cobweb Creative Archivist Peter Henderson Design yvonne@cobwebcreative.org Matt McArdle Photography mattmcardle13@mac.com The Cantuarian info@cantuarian.co.uk CANTUARIAN | 2025

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Trips (page 124)

editorial

OKS (page 136)

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include several feature pieces in 2025: we e hope that after some traumatic introduce the new Futures initiative that Covid years The Cantuarian has calmed down into a dependable helps pupils plan the next stage in their lives; we celebrate the Drama Department’s celebration of each year’s doings at King’s. success in the National Theatre Awards; The settled structure now gives a regular we examine the theory voice to the Captain of and practice of rolling out School, the Chaplaincy, the Purples and the Shells, but ‘The settled structure new computer devices for Shells; we take a look it also shines a spotlight on now gives a regular at the crazy idea hatched the annual changing of the voice to the Captain of in 1952 of doing the first pupil guard and gives each house a whole page to School, the Chaplaincy, King’s Week; and we are privileged to publish an reflect on their own year the Purples and the essay on the state of the of happy memories.

Shells, but it also shines nation by our new Deputy Head Academic, a study of There’s also annual news, a a spotlight on the list of pupil achievements, annual changing of the the link between nutrition and climate change by articles on clubs and pupil guard.’ a parent who is a world societies, examples of expert on the subject, and prizewinning writing, and a star pupil historian tells us for Art, Drama, Dance, who was really behind the Dissolution of Music, Trips and Sport a popular balance the Monasteries. between a yearly overview and a focus on one or two remarkable events or brilliant Last, it is our sad duty to publish two individuals. For Art this year, we celebrate obituaries: the first of our beloved Dean, Anthony Liu; in Drama, Stirling Hampton; Robert Willis, and the second of a truly in Dance, Miles Packard; in Music, the great member of the Common Room, Orchestra; in Trips, Venice and South Andrew McFall. After giving so much to so Africa; in Sport, Badminton. many, may they both rest in peace We also celebrate the anniversaries of Anthony Lyons OKS who have excelled in their field and Editor say hello and goodbye to staff in timeinfo@cantuarian.co.uk honoured fashion through the Salvete and Valete sections. And we are thrilled to

Pupil Futures (page 16)

Sport (page 118)

Dean, Robert Willis (page 160)

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CANTUARIAN | 2025

Music (page 104)

Music (page 104) CANTUARIAN | 2025

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THE

CAptain’s Speech

by Thomas Sturges (6a, MO) Shirley Hall, Thursday 3 July 2025

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ood afternoon, everyone.

especially in the early hours of some mornings and Saturday nights.

You have always made our well-being your top priority and helped us develop into the ‘gentlemen’ we are today.

Being captain of school this year has been an amazing experience and something that I will be forever grateful for. I must admit, when Ms Lowson told me the news last summer my immediate I would also like to thank those staff who sometimes we may forget – reaction was: Crikey, I have actually been given the the grounds people, administrators, maintenance job. I think my surprise was shared by my family. team and the cleaners in house, to name but a ‘You are the glue that When I rang my mum to tell her, her first words few. After five years I still don’t know how Yvonne were, ‘Wow! Really, Thomas?’ There were certainly holds the school together managed to turn our laundry around so quickly. some first-day nerves when I started as Captain in and I hope that everyone Last, but not least, thank you to all our parents September last year, but thanks to the support of here appreciates what and guardians. I know we may not always show our Vice Captains and Purples, as well as friends, family and teachers I managed to settle into the role you have done for them it, but I think I speak for all 6a’s when I say how quickly. over the last five years.’ much we appreciate your support, whether it be financial, practical or emotional, congratulating or I have been extremely fortunate to work alongside commiserating with us, cheering us on at matches, Ms Lowson this past year. The Head of a school can be perceived by attending events or just being there when we need you. Thank you. some as an intimidating figure, unapproachable, scary even. I can tell you that Ms Lowson is none of these. Over the last year in particular I Now this is obviously an emotional time for all us 6a’s. Suddenly have witnessed first-hand how much our Head genuinely cares about we are leaving this place, which for most of us has been our home every pupil in this school. She is always engaging with individual pupils away from home for five years. Even I am emotional, which is a big to understand more about their lives, challenges and ambitions, both deal: my girlfriend, Ava, often says that when it comes to emotions inside and outside the school. It has been so easy to talk with you, it’s like talking to a brick wall. So why are we so emotional to leave both formally and informally, and you have made me feel at ease. this school? As young adults surely we should be eager to break Thank you for everything you have done for me this year and, more free from the shackles importantly, for our school community as a whole. of school life and the necessary restrictions I would also like to thank all of our wonderful housemasters, that come with it. housemistresses and matrons. I can’t imagine what it is like trying Well, I think it’s the to look after 50 or more teenagers with all their needs and wants, realisation that we will their emotions and raging hormones. You are the glue that holds the no longer be an integral school together and I hope that everyone here appreciates what you day-to-day part of this have done for them over the last five years. Mr Singfield, thank you school community, for all you have done for us in house. I’m sure you will be first to say this amazing family that you have been blessed to have had such a wonderful group of that brings us all so 6a boys to look after. That said, I know that it has not always been close together. The easy. We know there were the odd ‘misdemeanours’ here and there, friendships made here 6

CANTUARIAN | 2025

‘I think there is one key thing our school is amazing at and that is realising our potential.’

staff and we pupils always look to teach, to support and to encourage each other. Nothing highlights this more than the previous week. We have seen an unbelievable display of talent throughout King’s Week. Today we have prize winners who have been are special and, in many cases, will be lifelong. It is recognised for their achievements across a wide always difficult to say goodbye to something that range of disciplines. Not all of you will have a prize you love, but I would just say this: be grateful it today but that doesn’t matter. I hope, when you have happened, not sad that it is over. the time to reflect on your time at King’s in the coming days, weeks, ‘The world outside of So why is King’s so special? months and even years, you will feel When we joined the school as King’s will probably be less that that potential inside you when either fresh-faced Shells or at encouraging, supportive you arrived at this place has been a later date, we all arrived with and nurturing so it will be made a reality. something important inside us. more down to us than ever Today is our last day as King’s pupils.

This was our potential. Aside before to make the most of As we leave and embark upon our from all the incredible aspects of King’s life, like the surroundings next chapters of life, I think we should the talents we have.’ and facilities, I think there is one feel that over our time here we have key thing our school is amazing been able to bank another store of at and that is realising our potential. All of us in this potential. I would encourage us all to take this into room and the school at large have talents, some our next chapters and make sure we do all we can to hidden more than others. This school has an innate realise this. The world outside of King’s will probably ability to identify these talents, bring them out and be less encouraging, supportive and nurturing so it nurture them. Whether they are academic, musical, will be more down to us than ever before to make artistic, sporty or organisational, King’s is able to the most of the talents we have. Our time at King’s provide an environment and culture that helps us has shown us all how to do this. Now it’s up to us to fulfil our potential. For some of us this could be in make the most of the amazing experience we have a specialised field; for others it could be across a had and to continue to maximise our potential. wide variety of disciplines. Our teachers, all the It has been an absolute pleasure to experience King’s over these last five years, and I have been lucky to have been able to share it with all you amazing people.

Thank you.

‘It’s up to us to make the most of the amazing experience we have had.’

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Chaplain’s Chapter

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by The Reverend Lucy Sullivan Associate Chaplain

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hen I reflect on my first year as Associate Chaplain at King’s, one question keeps surfacing, from pupils, parents, colleagues, and even myself: ‘What exactly does a school chaplain do?’

After years serving as a parish priest in Sussex, stepping into the world of school chaplaincy in Kent has been a journey of both continuity and discovery. And it turns out, this question – simple though it seems – has led me deeper into the very heart of what it means to be present in a place like King’s.

national news, global events, religious celebrations and school milestones. We often invite staff and guest speakers to join us as well as pupils, offering new perspectives and sharing their passions, setting challenges and opening minds.

While the school moves into lessons, I prepare for the worship and reflection that marks our week: Sunday Cathedral services, Wednesday Compline, Bible study and Confirmation classes, and for our special events like ‘Exam blessings to go’. Each is an invitation to the school community to pause, to reflect and to connect.

The school’s deep foundations in St. Augustine’s Abbey guided by the Rule of St. Benedict are, for me, not just a historical curiosity. It’s a ‘Watching our homecoming. My theological college, too, was rooted in pupils engage, ask that same ancient rule, lived questions, and reflect out centuries ago by monks with maturity and here in Canterbury. It begins compassion is one of with a powerful invitation: ‘Listen carefully.’ the greatest privileges

Break and lunch might sound ordinary, but at King’s they’re often a place of rich encounter. Over a coffee or a hot dinner, conversations unfold: the highs of weekend matches at Birley’s, the nerves before a Malthouse of this role.’

Listening is at the core of what performance, or reflections a chaplain does: listening to on world events. These pupils, staff, and families; listening to the joys moments remind me of the extraordinary and struggles of daily school life; listening to diversity and richness of this community, the concerns of the wider world; and, above and how well our young people listen to and all, listening to God. It’s not just what we do learn from each other.

– it’s who we are called to be.

One of the highlights of the week is taking A Day in the Life pupils to volunteer at the All Saint’s Food Each day begins, as all clergy lives should, Larder, a local foodbank. There, we learn with prayer. Sometimes it’s at home with a together about the needs of our neighbours, cup of tea and the cat. Sometimes it’s with about service, and about the quiet strength Rev, while we reflect on the charge that we of community. Watching our pupils engage, share as the school’s chaplains. Sometimes ask questions, and reflect with maturity and it’s with one of our parent prayer groups. compassion is one of the greatest privileges However it begins, it’s a moment of stillness, of this role. of attentiveness, a way of holding the entire school community in prayer before the day When a busy King’s Day draws to a close, gets going. evenings often end with a house visit, one of the most rewarding parts of chaplaincy.

Then comes assembly. At King’s, we share We try to visit every boarding house at least the themes of our assemblies across the once a term. It’s a chance to meet pupils Junior and Senior schools so that those where they are: in their space, on their with siblings across the school get a similar terms. These conversations range from the message each week, themes that reflect the serious to the silly: ‘What did you mean real concerns and celebrations we encounter: by that sermon in the Cathedral?’; ‘Who is

going to be the next Archbishop?’; ‘Can you pray for my exam tomorrow?’; ‘Which house is the best?’ (I can’t possibly put that one in print – you’ll have to ask me in person!)

In these visits, pupils set the agenda. They share with us what matters most in their world, and we listen.

So... What Do I Actually Do? The truth is, no two days are the same, but whether it’s leading a service, having a corridor chat, joining pupils at a foodbank, or praying quietly in a chapel, chaplaincy is about being present. It’s about holding space – for joy, for sorrow, for questions and doubts, for wonder and hope.

And What Should a Chaplain Be? Someone who listens. Someone who holds before God the lives and stories of those in their care. Someone who brings challenge where a voice for the vulnerable is needed.

Someone who helps a community discover what it means to flourish together. It’s a joyfilled, humbling privilege to walk alongside the King’s community. And if you’re still wondering what a chaplain does, well…come and find me. Let’s talk. I’d love to listen.

‘They share with us what matters most in their world, and we listen.’

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King’s NEWS 2025

FACILITIES & EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENTS • • • • •

Following an inspection in June, King’s was given permission by the Independent Schools Inspectorate to increase its pupil number cap by 70 pupils, reflecting growing interest from day pupils in particular Preparations were made for the opening of a new day house in September 2025, along with flexi-boarding accommodation and a new Wellbeing Centre Refurbishment of Jervis House completed and planning applications submitted to convert the Jolly Sailor pub for educational use A successful trial of Shell pupils working from school-owned laptops was conducted, ahead of a year-group rollout in September 2025 The school’s strategic vision was launched by the Head, Jude Lowson, based around the themes of ‘Belong, Engage, Connect and Thrive’

EVENTS • • • • •

A superb King’s Week in perfect weather built to a breathtaking conclusion in the Gala Symphony Concert The leavers’ ball was a great success, and was held for the first time at Birley’s The Duruflé Requiem was performed in the Cathedral by over 150 pupils, parents and OKS. The same piece was performed by the Crypt Choir in St Lawrence Jewry for Ash Wednesday the previous week A wonderful 90th anniversary reunion was held for members of Walpole House A fantastic run for the school musical, Legally Blond, was held at the Malthouse

OVERSEAS AND FUNDRAISING • • • •

Agreement signed for a new King’s overseas school in Cairo Further expansion in our provision of summer schools held for overseas pupils during July Parent receptions held in Hong Kong, Singapore and Lagos Through the generosity of donors, more than half a million pounds was added to the fund to support Charter Award bursaries

STAFFING CHANGES • • • • • • •

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Mark Brotherton is made interim Head at JKS and subsequently takes up the role on a permanent basis New Senior Deputy Head, Alex Patton, joins from Brighton College.

New Deputy Head Academic, Matthew Key, takes up post in January, joining from Forest School Two existing colleagues also took up new Assistant Head positions on the Senior Management Team: Jonathan Pope (Teaching & Learning) and Al Holland (Operations & Outreach) New Housemistresses in Kingsdown (Hester Galmes-Davies) and Mitchinson’s (Kimberley Budden) A new Director of Futures role was created to develop our careers and university application provision, filled by Hannah Warwicker Claire Frere took up post as Head of Chemistry

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Dance (page 54) CANTUARIAN | 2025

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Under

New

Management

Bea Perry (6b, WL) Captain of School

Born and raised in Kent, I moved to King’s as a boarder in Remove. From chatting and walking in the Cathedral with friends, to intense badminton matches in Walpole garden, I can safely say that my time at King’s is well spent. I’m studying French, History, English, and an EPQ at A’ Level, and plan to study History at university after a gap year, which I hope to spend in France and East Africa. I love to play lacrosse and take part in the academic life at King’s, alongside my more creative participation in school plays and playing the piano and saxophone. At home my time is spent seeing friends, reading, or partaking in my guilty pleasure, trashy period dramas.

Rupert Brett (6b, LN) Vice Captain of School

I was born in Kent and have attended King’s since the age of four. I am studying Economics, Geography and DT and I want to pursue a Geography-/property-related course at university and then take that onto a property or entrepreneurial career. I am a rower. I have been rowing at King’s since Shell, and it is something I really enjoy on a day-to-day basis. Outside of school, I enjoy cycling, shooting and design-related work.

Eric Wong (6b, MO) Vice Captain of School

I was born in Hong Kong and joined King’s in Shell. I study Art History, Politics and Philosophy at A’ Level. Over my time here, I’ve developed an interest in law and diplomacy, and a deep appreciation for the Arts. I’ve loved being part of King’s Week bands as a guitarist and have enjoyed playing rugby and rowing. Outside of school, you’d probably find me listening to music in parks, or queueing at the shawarma truck in town.

Onize Salami (6b, WL) Vice Captain of School

I grew up in Nigeria and Egypt, then attended JKS as a boarder in Year 7 before joining King’s in Shell. I study Chemistry, Biology, and Psychology, and I hope to study Medicine at university and eventually become a neurologist or neurosurgeon. Beyond academics, I am passionate about music. I sing in a band with my friends, and we perform every King’s Week. I am a keen netballer and cricketer, having played for the 1st XI and the 2nd VII. I also dance in Kidaco and various showcases every year, which I thoroughly enjoy.

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Dora Wang (6b, MT) Head Scholar

I was born in Nottingham and moved to Canterbury at the age of three, where I attended several different schools locally before joining King’s as an academic scholar in Shell. I enjoy knitting and reading fantasy in my spare time as well as sailing and playing the violin in the school’s Symphony Orchestra. I am studying Chemistry, Physics and Maths at A’ Level, and I hope to study Natural Sciences or Chemistry at university.

Elly Johnson (6b, CY) Pupil Wellbeing

I was born and raised in Hong Kong before moving to Canterbury and joining King’s in Shell. During my time in Hong Kong I attended Harrow International School until the end of Year 8. Here at King’s, I study Economics, English and Politics, and I hope to study Law at a university in London. I love sports, playing in the 1st X for lacrosse and 1st XI for cricket, as well as being a committed and passionate member of the CCF, taking part in external excursions and the Remembrance Day parades.

Daniel Tsang (6b, TR) Pupil Wellbeing

I was born in Hong Kong before joining Tradescant as a Shell in September 2021. I attended a local prep school until Year 5, followed

by Malvern College Hong Kong until Year 9. I currently study Maths, Biology, Geography and PE, and I hope to study Accounting and Finance at university. Outside the classroom, I am passionate about sport. I represented the 1st XI football team this year and previously competed at county level in ice hockey. Looking ahead, I hope to build a career in the fields of accounting and economics.

Samuel Chang (6b, GL) Co-Curriculum

Ever since I can remember, I’ve been split between two worlds — the clean logic of mathematics and the creative chaos of music. I plan to study Maths somewhere in the UK, and I’m just as excited about the weather and lectures as I am about the late-night jams and parties, and everything else that comes with a UK student life.

I’ve been classically trained on the piano since the age of 4, but my tastes have grown over the years to include everything from jazz to hip hop. I love the way different genres speak their own language, and I hope to create music in future that blends those influences into something original. If all else fails, I’ll just start a career as a rapper and hope for the best.

Theodora Caser (6b, WL) Co-Curriculum

I was born in Turin, Italy, but raised in Jersey. I attended St Michael’s Preparatory School before joining King’s as a Drama Scholar and Honorary Sports Scholar in 2021. I am currently studying English, PE and Geography and I recently completed an EPQ on climate change.

At university, I would like to study sustainability. Beyond academics, a big part of my life at King’s is playing several sports including Netball, Tennis and Hockey, while also being involved in plays and musicals.

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Honor Fox (6b, WL) Outreach & Partnerships

I was born in Cairo, and grew up in Kenya and Saudi Arabia, before joining King’s from Vinehall School in East Sussex, which I had attended since the age of nine. I’m studying History of Art, History, and French, and really enjoy the way my chosen A’ Levels work together. I hope to read History at university, after a gap year in which I would like to work in France for a bit, continuing to learn the language. Outside of academics, I enjoy playing tennis and lacrosse, and spending time with my friends in Walpole – the best house!

Lily Scott (6b, JR) Sustainability

I was born and raised in London and attended Holland Park School before joining King’s in 2021. My dad, godfathers and many family friends are OKS, so I’ve grown up surrounded by the King’s community.

I currently study Economics, English Literature, Geography, and an EPQ. I hope to study Law at university with the aim of making a meaningful difference as a lawyer. Outside of academics I enjoy debating, doing art, and being a member of the environmental club, with whom I’ll be working closely in my role as Sustainability Monitor.

s d a He

House of

Nivee Mitra (6b, MR) Admissions & Prospective Pupils

I was born and raised in Singapore before moving to Canterbury to join King’s in Remove, becoming an honorary academic scholar at the end of Fifth Form. I am currently studying Spanish, Latin and English at A’ Level, and I am looking to continue with my Spanish and Latin studies at university. Outside of academics at King’s, I enjoy being part of the school’s horse-riding team and taking part in various Chapel Choir concerts.

Flavia Pellumbi (6b, CY) Academia

I was born in London but went to nursery in Geneva in Switzerland before moving to Canterbury and joining JKS. At King’s, I am a day pupil in Carlyon, and I now take Maths, Physics, Chemistry and French at A’ Level. Beyond school, I would like to continue with STEM by studying Materials Science at university. Outside of academics, I have really enjoyed being involved in drama excellence, being in musicals and playing lacrosse, especially at Purples vs. Lacrosse, which excites split loyalties.

2025-26 Broughton Bailey Carlyon Galpin’s The Grange Harvey House Jervis Linacre Luxmoore Kingsdown Meister Omers Marlowe Mitchinson’s School House Tradescant Walpole

Anna Eropkina Elena Chin Kitty Furnival Youmans Fan Alfred Yang Noura Shahab Kayali Leah Kim Louis Plaskett Zara Brett Tabby Raikes Lutendo Nematswerani Pani Cochrane Kenzie O’Neill Charlie Nosworthy George Stringer Chiara Boiteux

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Pupil

futures

by Ms Hannah Warwicker

T ‘With our new-look team of subject mentors and our popular drop-in support sessions, pupils have more options than ever before to get the help they need with their applications.’

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his has been an exciting first year for the new Futures Department.

We are keen to build on the long history of top university places for King’s pupils, as well as developing a more holistic provision that supports pupils to explore and grasp a wider range of opportunities.

Feedback on the fair was overwhelmingly positive, especially from 6bs who raved about the academic interview sessions and the calibre of university visitors above all.

The first edition of our Higher Education Applications Handbook gives more details on this aspect of our provision. Do get in touch if you would like to request a copy or watch out for the new online library we hope to launch in the coming year. In May we held our inaugural Futures Fair for all pupils in Shell, Remove and 6b, as well as local partnerships pupils. All pupils attended an exhibition of higher education providers, early careers opportunities and education consultants, while 6bs also had a varied menu of break-out seminars to choose from.

Our current project is a Shell Futures coaching programme, which aims to help even our youngest pupils to conceptualise life beyond King’s with an accessible and supportive approach. The focus is on future skills which are very current: communication and resilience are the order of the day. This programme will launch to Shells in September.

Next year, we hope to reach out to more partnerships schools and invite more representatives from degree apprenticeship In the area of university applications, this providers and gap year employers. We has been an exciting year. have also put together With our new-look team a programme of OKS ‘Pupils attended of subject mentors and our UniChats webinars to popular drop-in support help 6bs get an authentic an exhibition of sessions, pupils have more sense of the university higher education options than ever before experience, and we have providers, early to get the help they need invited OKS to support with their applications. We careers opportunities our Fifth Form Next Steps have also introduced more Day. We look forward and education support with US and other to expanding our OKS consultants.’ international applications, network next year and partnering with The beyond. Please get in University Guys and UES to put together a touch if you are keen to get involved. You comprehensive programme for our globally can find the Pupil Futures Department on ambitious pupils. the King’s Association platform.

‘In May we held our inaugural Futures Fair for all pupils in Shell, Remove and 6b, as well as local partnerships pupils.’

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Purple Patch Every year we ask leaving Purples what they want to do when they grow up.

Zara Kolade

llas Oliver Da ity to study

Because of my passion for understanding human societ ies, I want first to study Social Anthropology at Edinburgh .

Ultimately, I aspire to bri ng these complex stories of culture, tradition and hum an experience to life throug h the lens of a camera and become a documentary direct or, crafting powerful narrative s that explore the richness of global communities in conversation with our mod ern, technology-infused societ y.

univers plied to learning I have ap ly enjoy l a e r I . s ic e to hide Linguist nd so hop a ) d r e n a possible. (yes, I am s long as a r o f s b jo ed to me from real ly appeal l a e r s c i a second Linguist dy speak a e r l a I hope to because versity I i n u t A . ly cling language desperate d n a h s d be i n pa ages coul relearn S er langu h t o . I y r n e A t n. e bet onto Lati spoken th s s e l vel e e L h t he A’ fun also, rk into t o w h ng c i u y m r so keep t have put l to not u f n nto i i a p e m e b lly it would arents bu p y m get n o e t h . W y try to use it l probabl l i w . g I n , i b t jo teres getting a ed and in i r a v g s n i i s t hoo a job tha ing but c is appeal g n s risky. i m h e c e a S e T agers? n e e t h t i Aiden Masiero to deal w I plan to read Law at Mickey Mouse University so I can learn to be empathetic to others. But for now, my eyes are set on a gap year Lisa Yeh d King’s, I have making irreplaceable memories in Ever since I joine the same question lf se my mom’s basement (we don’t have a my ng ki as been I want to do in do at basement).

I will find new hobbies ‘Wh y: da y er ev rst, I thought the fi At and interests like dragon-riding ?’ re tu fu e th go to university, s: ou vi and jaeger-piloting (side-questing, ob s wa er answ as an, get rich. But ci ti as my friends like to put it). My li po a me co be ted becoming more ar st I dream is to work in a profession , on nt we time r career paths, he ot in that allows me to sleep negative ed st re te in al Sciences course ci So e two hours a day whilst influencing th ly al ci espe I plan to explore sports betting odds or government at King’s College. r at university he rt fu policy.

When part of group projects, st re te in my s clubs and societie ny ma such as the Imperial Rat Battling e th h ug ro th r e to gain a cleare bl la competition, I witnessed the use of ai av e ar at th re. Currently, I tu fu my arts in science, and the parasitic of e ur ct pi auctioneer when an me co relationship between the two. be to re pi as t an internship at ge d Winning last place allowed us to an te ua ad gr I art rld’s oldest fine wo e donate the prize money to treading th ’s, ie st ri Ch t who knows what the path less trodden. It was a auction house. Bu store for me? strange feeling, but nowhere near as the future has in bad as five years of unrequited love.

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Eleanor Symons

After leaving King’s I’m planning to do a gap year and travel around South America, hopefully enjoying some sunshine and making many incredible memories.

After that, life is still a bit questionable. Hopefully I’ll be going to Durham to study Liberal Arts (as long as I don’t mess up my A’ Levels too badly) and then I’m hoping to go into Politics, specialising in International Relations. I’m honestly looking forward to getting into the real world. I’ll miss King’s so much but living the life of an adult (other than all the boring bits) is going to be incredible, although getting off work won’t be as easy as going to matron.

Bella Richardson

I’m hoping to complete a Business Management and Spanish degree at university (basic, I know) but hopefully it’ll be worth it when I’m getting tan lines from the year in Spain that comes with it – after all the work experience I’m there to do first, of course.

A gap year comes before all that serious stuff, though, with hopes of surfing the golden coast and a bit later feeling the wind in my hair on the back of a random guy’s motorcycle in Thailand. No, sorry. I mean a very responsible and respectable driver whose job is to safely travel around those infamous mountains. Let’s hope I don’t get food poisoning in Bali and will still be alive by the end of it to tell the tale!

Will Holland de the

Hannah Kyanda

I have ma I like to think ing at King’s, involv most of my time sport and music myself in as much . With that in as I could fit in er how I found mind, I often wond Biochemistry. I myself pursuing d: that it’s twofol usually conclude le find it incredib first, because I to study the that we are able ems that make st mechanisms and sy cond, because life possible; se or sport are c careers in musi ul ic t to sustain. notoriously diff e importance of th The hierarchical , bate. Ultimately two is up for de job that I love, I hope to find a nnected to while staying co ong the way. al friends I’ve made

Hi! My name is Hannah Kyanda, Head of Harvey House, and I’m planning on going to the University of Reading to study Environmental Science and then hopefully get an MSc in Environmental Engineering.

After that I plan on working with the UN to combat the effects of climate change and promote a sustainable conservation of the Earth’s natural environment, focusing closely on my home country, Uganda, and its vibrant landscape.

Portia Alford Freddie Foley

Before hopefully being acc epted into a conservatoire, I’m taking a gap year when I’m going to foc us on my music, write some songs, tra vel as far away from the UK as pos sible, and most importantly have a goo d rest!

It’s been a journey, and I’ve really loved my time here and hop efully I’ll be back some day to pes ter the likes of The Beadle, my fri ends in the Admissions Departmen t, Mr Harrison and of course his dog Bert. I’m 18 so nothing is certain.

For all I know, I could end up becoming a professional sin ger, a rich investment banker fol lowing the steps of one particula r teacher within the Economics Depart ment (you know who you are) or a tru ck driver.

Eriksson Matildapupil at school, I

busy o do in As a very se what t o o h c o t lined struggle itely dec l o p I ; e r essional the futu of a prof b jo l a i t d I do the poten why woul e s u a c e b he idea musician owever, t H ? f l e s y ng of that to m nd thinki a y h p o s o ght or of phil ave no ri h t a h t s gued me. question her intri t a r r e w s f mine, I wrong an passion o a h t i w s i ith music To tie th ir this w a p o t n e s an odd have chos ne this a i f e d d l u e idea of – some wo I like th t u b , n o i hings at combinat fferent t i d o w t g iversity, studyin leting un p m o c n r e t conversio once. Af do a law o t e s k i i h l t I would I can use nd I hope sic u m r o f course, a assion p y m e d i lawyer. alongs opyright c a e m o c and be

Being naturally indecisive, I don’t know what the future holds beyond my summer travels and starting university in September.

I plan to visit various countries, from Croatia to Mallorca and Portugal, spending time with friends and hopefully coming back home with a tan. It’s strange to think I won’t have to keep my King’s card in my wallet any more, or have to start September shopping for black socks. Rather, I may see myself at LSE or Bristol in the Autumn, where I will be studying a mixture of Economics, Politics and International Relations. King’s will remain a huge part of my life, and I look forward to returning for my brother’s Commemoration Service in a couple of years.

Nathan Sumner

Next year, I’ll be studying neuroscience because I’m fascinated by how the brain processes decision-making, memory, and maybe even why I keep thinking I can balance sport, music, academics and somewhat of a social life without losing my mind. In reality, I hope to finally answer the life-long mystery: what women mean when they say, ‘I’m fine.’ When I’m not studying, I might spend some time on the hockey pitch as well, using it as an excuse to go abroad and potentially play in the Netherlands or in Australia. I’ve also been promised by my language teachers that I’ll be about 70% fluent in Spanish by the end of the course, so within the next couple of years I would love to go to South America and put that to the test.

Bryan Onwuka

My first love was food.

Comedically, most of my pas swords incorporate some type of foo d I love as that’s what matter s most to me. Throughout my five years at King’s and eight years in the UK, after trying differ ent ‘English delights’, I’m qui te frankly tired of English food and I’m excited to experienc e a different cuisine. I plan to study something to do with Econom ics at Brown University next yea r. But more importantly I hope the food there is good. On my open day I’m heading straight to the caf eteria in the hope of being met wit h a glorious scent preceding wha t will be many delightful fea sts.

My only fear is that with all sugary American food I pla n to try I won’t be able to play any sport. Oh, and I also play Rugby.

Alex Song

t all about University is no ople I know studying. Some pe rk, which is do nothing but wo when revision fine at A’ Level ill very and tests are st would not important, but it live life in be a valid way to w I know the universities. No of a university very definition educational is ‘a high-level ich students institution in wh s and academic study for degree ’, but I believe research is done ng. Making this is misleadi internships friends, getting ce and making for job experien y to getting connections is ke in the future; a successful job trips and doing going abroad on ches your charity work enri are so many worldview: there erywhere. I am opportunities ev to skip lectures not telling you I am just and assignments; ld be a good saying there shou e. Don’t miss work-life balanc years of your out on the best ect grades. life just for perf

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Vera Loi

lrose Clara Msetudy at the

s to taking My hope i ath after B f o y t i , I have Univers ke others i l n U . t u that a year o am hoping d n a s n a l uides zero p gically g a m y t i e n sponta My only he year. t h g u o r p year me th for my ga n a l p e t school: concre or music f s n o i t i rk it is aud in the da t o h s a h thoug d myself ing I fin is someth ope to out and h b a e t e a n o passi f all els future. I e h t g n n i i k peruse myself ta ill find h I c i h w fails, I w n i year p a g r a e y a 10rm owner. an ant fa e m o c e b gest ant will w the lar o r g o t h I wis as ever niverse h u s i h nd t m far llions, a ill be mi w e r e n h a T er m y seen. extend ov l l i w m r a lectively the f o also se t h s i w I r to make acres. s in orde t n a y m d bree er than imes larg t n e t m e th ant. ge garden a r e v a e h t

Samantha Ye ung Afte

Tara Pelling I’ve applied to study Biological Sciences at university, but first I’ve decided to take a gap year mostly because I can’t bear the thought of doing anything vaguely academic for another year. Instead, I’m heading to Zimbabwe and Kenya for six months to gain hands-on experience in conservation. The ultimate goal is to pursue a career within the field of research and conservation, although I’m still figuring out exactly what that will look like (most likely a small paycheque and a lot of fun).

What I do know for certain is that I want to understand how deeply nature and biodiversity affect our everyday lives and learn the best ways to help others grasp that importance.

r five years of questionable dining hall food (Asian soup?) and perfecti ng the art of wr iting just en ou gh to hit the wo rd count, it ’s time to move on. Where to ?

Either the an cient librar Thomas Sturges ies of the UK or the iced-cof My desire in life is to become feefuelled chao s of the US an airline pilot for British – still TBD. I’ ll be studyi Airways. Travelling the world and ng something th at lets me ta experiencing different cultures lk far too much while preten as part of your job isn’t far from ding it’s academic , whether th ideal, in my opinion. My love at’s religion, ar t history, or of flying became apparent at writing opin ion pieces wi a young age. I found something th aggressively niche refere so satisfying about watching nces.

Long-term, I’ d like to sh this multi-tonne object simply ape conversation s in media, lift into the sky. However, with academia, or just by bein this desire in mind, it might g really conv incing at di seem odd that I am applying to nner parties. In a perfect wo study Economics and Politics at rld, my future in volves writ university, as there is little ing, thinking, an d somehow ge tting correlation between that and being paid for both . For now, th ough, an airline pilot. In all honesty, the priority I is survivin the real reason behind it is that g A’ Levels, ma cs king it to topi the by ed inat am simply fasc graduation without trip Economics and Politics cover. ping on stage, an d pretending What I enjoy is people’s actions to have life fi gured out. and rationalities, when struck with changes in their life. How this alters their behaviour is I something I find interesting, and her furt this ore expl to am excited at university, alongside the partying and hectic nights out.

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ka After leaving school, I am lo oking to pursue a de gree in Econom ics, after which I want to dive in to the legal sphe re. What I crav e from my future job is the challe nge of each new da y and the prof ou nd sense of purp ose that come s from making a mean ingful impact .

I also hope to keep up the incredible fr iendships I’ve made at King’s that have shaped me into the pers on I am today.

I can’t wait to see where all of us end up and I’m sure we will enjoy our exciting journeys ahea d.

Boude Igbokwe ined

y Comb I am hoping to stud Durham, but I Social Sciences at king a gap year will likely be ta lly this will beforehand. Hopefu d of travelling, ol feature a mixture e th r fo Playing cars and cricket. sbridge Cricket rt be Ro s illustriou ll accompany my Clubs 3rd team wi y working on a summer of hopefull I am hoping to farm. After this, w bits of Africa travel around a fe avels, I am hoping with James. Post tr rope in an old to drive around Eu % ote Anchorman – ‘60 Land Rover. To qu – ’ me ti y s ever of the time it work my Land Rover up ms su ch pretty mu 60% is often experience, except my summer will too optimistic so g on the floor also comprise lyin mud when I try covered in oil and and inevitably to fix something re broken. make everything mo

Flora Dwerryhouse

Before settling into univer sity, I plan to take a year out. Fir st stop: South America, where I pla n to spend three months traveling the country from Santiago to Guatemala , hopefully reviving some faint memory of Spanish GCSE along the way and gra sping every opportunity to do something new. From skydiving to volcano-clim bing, I’m determined to tick off as many bucket list items as possible. Eve ntually, reality will call me back, and if I make it back in one piece, I wil l be studying Biochemistry at Bristol Uni versity.

From there, I aim to focus on the fascinating intersection of medical law or bioelectronics — fie lds where my passion for science and ethics can combine to lead me into a job by which I hope I can make a real dif ference.

y Joe Netlveery natural part

t been a prise tha s always huge sur Music ha a ’t y n d s u i t o s e, so it vatoire t of my lif to conser o g ic is s o t u m n e l lassica I’ve chos C . e c n a m rfor industry violin pe edictable r p n u d n bout all ild a excited a quite a w y r e d v ’m I ng up, an o, but are openi to go int t a h o t h w s e ople biliti ded by pe the possi e surroun b o t ery happy v y l ’m l s me. I a especia n o nt i s s a instrume same p tering my s share the a m ll i o w t e e ut tim my lif c voice, b to devote i t t, s o i n t r f a ons. I ng my my ambiti and findi l i , f i l a u s f n f bo her I the art o r tell whet e t s it a : m c i d s o mu ry an similar t I would t e t e. i c n qu e y i t a nd pa in a w of care a which is t n u o m a a huge requires

Henry Elliott

On the proviso that I achieve the formidable feat of two E grades at A’ Level, I shall have the privilege of studying at the illustrious Guildhall School of Music and Drama, dedicating myself to the noble French Horn.

Beyond my musical endeavours, my greatest and inextinguishable passion is the exhilarating pursuit of Hobby Horse racing. As the acquisition of a living steed is a most costly affair, I have gallantly embraced this refined alternative, allowing me to partake in the equestrian world with boundless enthusiasm.

This distinguished pursuit replicates the elegance of dressage and showjumping whilst encompassing myriad other feats, which, due to my forever growing plethora of skills in the hobby horse world, I am able to bathe in, including mounted games, cross-country trials, and freestyle performances. I fervently hope this brief insight has illuminated the sheer delight I derive from Hobby Horsing, a pursuit in which I luxuriate with the utmost relish.

Wattsy should play n a t s i rit Tr Giving at cha

. h ’s life ever t s rybody m beli e r v e acces i e f m a n a the s art i I am e p e v i v l a g a h t o amen y not way t a t m s e o b h a fund s w can. the as you o other y. But e h k c u s m i back t as cs ies conomi o earn rtunit tudy E an is t s to oppo c o ill t u w o d y s thi ecide h as y d c l u e l m v u a f s e h a r, I op s why e secto sity. H That i financ univer e s, t h l a t i e a n c at f ob i nan and Fi . If th ind a j t f ted n s o e e t m r e e e m o int manag s l h a t enable h l m a . I a th eac s in we act wi hiring r s e y t perhap a n e w i s om al with s ocietie lds is ide me McDona e and s v l o his p r t o p e f p d o way houl all s e s r c o i f m e in the o ut b er and so Econ s summ opic. B i t h s t other, i h e t ur g for t into advent walkin n a g n n i insigh o w g -yearl be barkin . I wil op a 70 s t e a i I am em k g s n ndi op-the to the and lo ils sta s a l t l l n taking l e a i t f h to ine s y, whic intend es eng o I d . s charit s t d e i a i s le or lane a od mem y road and go old bip ever m , r y e e h n w o m But me loops. ess, so happin h t i w it

Jam

es Wills If you had as ked me when I was five wh future woul at my d hold, I’d ha ve said I’d be de whether to pl ciding ay England Rugby or En Cricket when gland the seasons overlap. Howe a lack of sk ver, ill in both and tighter steroids have laws on made that dr eam seem un Despite play realistic. ing two spor ts for Englan out of the qu d being estion, my fu ture plans st to change al il l seem most daily, and by the ti is printed I’ me this m sure they’l l have evolve but I’ll give d again, it my best sh ot. I hope to degree in an pursue a economics-re lated field, working in ul ti mately the financia l sector. Th being in an e idea of industry sh aped by glob really fasc al events inates me. Be fore that, th plan to take ough, I a gap year.

I’m looking to taking a fo rward break from ed ucation to ga experience, in work travel, and hopefully ga perspectives in new along the wa y. Worst-case I’ll have ha scenario: d a memorabl e and enjoya ble year.

Ma

ria Be My fut lopols ure pl ans ar ky cloud. e as co I have n c r course g ete as e neral , but I a aspira am not existe t ions, o nce be going f c t a o outl use, fr too pr ine my ankly, esumpt uous.

I play i think I woul t as i that’s d much t lays this A prefer . Acad utumn e to micall I will of Chi y spea be at cago s king, the Un tudyin now, I iversi g Glob envisi ty al Stu on a p where d i a e t s. Rig h in d that w ht i p l i o l macy, t l lead At the hough remain risk o f s soundi to be s wish t ng lik o trav een. el the e a cl perspe iché, I world ctive and ex to bec experi pand m ome a ences. y k a leidos I f be rea m y cope o f u ture s ding t f elf ha his, I or at ppens sincer least to e t l r y i e hope y d wanted f o r ou got every , that opport you’re you lo unity taking ve, an you care o d t hat yo you wa f thos u got nted — e everyt ethica hing lly, of course .

Norman

Balcomb Having grow n up on a fa rm all my li I always kn fe, ew that my fu ture lay in agriculture.

I will study Agriculture Farm Busine and ss Managemen t at univer first I need sity, but a year out to gain some mo firsthand ex re perience. Wo rking on my farm year-r family’s ound will al low me to de practical sk velop ills whilst also learni the many ge ng from nerations th at have prec While some of eded me. my peers will be attendin lectures or g travelling across the gl could be work obe, I ing in a lamb ing shed, ca grain about rting or loading st raw lorries. work is toug The h and relent less, but I th on such a ch rive allenge. Fa rming is more just a career than to me; it is a way of life I am excited , and to dedicate my future to it.

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PUPIL NTS E M E V E I ACH – 2025 2024

Classics Congratulation s to the 6a and 6b Classicists who took part the Benenden in Classics Symp osium.

Presentations by our pupils to the six other school s from across Ke nt: Oliver Dallas (6 a) – superb presen tation on Archimides’ inventions Holly Piccinin (6b, MT) – perc eptive and original di scussion of Od ys seus and Circe Luca Sand (6b, CY ) – eloquent and precise presentation on Fabian strategy the Punic Wars in Further congratu lations to Bee Bi llett (6b, MT) for her impressive short story entered into the Reim agining the Classics co mpetition, whic h was displayed in th e main hall.

Chemistr y O February lympiad 2025

Cameron Fuller (6 a) has b invited een to atten d Round of the Ol Two ympiad. T his is a v big deal ery because o n 30 cand idates a ly the top re invi He gets ted. to spend at Nott four day ingham s Universi undergoi ty, ng a variety differen o t chall enges, b f written oth and pra ctical, listenin and g to gue st speak The top ers. four the n repres the UK i ent n the In ternatio Olympiad nal .

mpiad

Physics Oly

e piad Round On 25) 20 Physics Olym y ar nu ved Ja (results arri ) Qian (6b, TR Seo (6a), Sean , Oliver Dallas el ni Da : ld Go (6a) (6a) n Masiero Silver: Aide ek (6a), Jonathan Liew Sh an th a) (6a), Na an Balcomb (6 Bronze: Norm lenge Physics Chal Intermediate h Form) ft (aimed at Fi (R, BR) Silver: , GL), Amy Hu th (5 en Sh n Jaso e (6b) ics Challeng Senior Phys (6b, TR) ), Kevin Chen ng (6b, TR b, (6 an Gold: Sean Qi Huang (6b, MO), Dora Wa ishi k ), Aditya R Silver: Han unde (6b, GR et Oy o ip ad MT), Ol (6b, MT)

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mpiad

Biology Oly

to the membership ee fr et g ed icipat All who part of Biology. y et ci So Royal Fuller (6a) (6a), Cameron tz n ra h Sc Gold: Jamie t-Edmunds D), Phin Bret O), Kenzo K b, (6 u X M mer Silver: Sum ytskyi (6b, iel Kupnov ew Brown (6b, MR) n Da , N) L (6b, th (6b, SH), Mat Kashiwabara n Tang (6b, (6b, SH), Anso l ae h ic rm Ca Bronze: Theo illiams (6b, GL) W e st u g u A GL), ), Robert Huang (6b, SH n to h ig Br ended: Highly Comm TR), Leah Kim (6b, JR) b, (6 n to Haugh GR) uma Xiao (6b, Bo d: de en m m Co SH), Rebecca Quinn (6b, l ie n Da : on orten Chung Participati g (6b, JR), M e Wang (6b, an W ea L ), Zhang (6b, BY at Yestay (6b, BY), Grac n (6b, SH), Zhan Chin (6b, WL) e n li ro LX), Ca

Biology James Schrantz (6a) was nom inated as a medical applicant for the Harveian Society of London Award (£150.00) and it was agr eed by Dr Mike Flynn of the Har veian Society of London. Chelse a Nong (6b, MR) won a Dulwich College Erasmus Essay Competition prize for an piece on the Eth ics of Charity. Fred Bosley (6b, MT) has made it into the final of the Historical Association deb ate to be held in Windsor on 29 March.

He is the first King’s pup il to have made it to this stage in the competition for over two dec ades.

Junior Physics Online Chal

lenge (Remove)

Gold: Gengis Bohrer (R, SH) Ethan Yan (R, TR) Ethan Sparey (R, GL) Rafael Cable (R, MT) Jayden Wong (R, GL) Sheldon Wat (R, CY) Shirley Zhang (R, HH) Yiyi Chen (R, WL) Patrick Lyu (R, GL) Zachariah Mayhew (R, MR) Hansu Zhang (R, GR) King Cao (R, MO) Chloe Jin (R, MR) Joshua Lee (R, MO)

Silver: Gretchen Chang (R, MR) Conrad Fuller (R, TR) Casper Montague (R, MT) Tsang Lok Hei Clayton (R, TR) Olivia Yu (R, JR) Jeffrey Zhang (R, GL) Lester Lo (R, TR) Amy Hu (R, BR) Iggy Reynolds (R, MT) Shellie Wat (R, CY) Kevin Geng (R, SH) Sasha Romanchuk (R, WL) Sheldon Wat (R, CY) Romilly Pellumbi (R, MT) Eva Ridley (R, KD) Lizzy Chipperfield (R, MT) Sophia Payne (R, MR) Izzie Llewellyn (R, LX)

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House Pages We asked Heads of House if they wanted a page in the magazine to review the year for their houses. They said yes.

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Broughton

by Flora Dwerryhouse (6a, BR)

T

his Year has been a great one for Broughton House. We started off the year with a lot of fresh faces in 6b and Shell. Ready for a new term our New Deputy Head Miss Authier initiated a new family system across year groups in house.

Grouping different year levels together, the aim was to strengthen bonds across the house. We wasted no time proving that spirit at Cross Country, one of Broughton’s strongest events. Arriving at Birley’s decked out in house colours, face paint, and proudly waving our giant Broughton banner featuring Riley the red dragon, we made our presence known. Cheering for every runner, from Shell to Sixth Form, it was a perfect start to the new academic year.

As soon as we returned in October, House Song rehearsals got underway. This year’s song was ‘Don’t Stop Believing’, brilliantly led

by Clara Melrose in 6a. Clara put in a huge amount of effort organising rehearsals and getting everyone involved — she somehow managed to keep us in time and tune. By the time the performance came around, we were so proud of what we’d put together, and very grateful to Clara for pulling it all off.

As the winter term drew to a close, a few more Broughton traditions lit up the calendar. Our joint Christmas Social with our brother house Trad took place, as always, at 7 a.m. on the 1st of December - full of dancing, Christmas songs and a last dance

by Mr Harrison and Dr McVeigh before the rush to breakfast. This event is a true favourite and never fails to be great fun. Our

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Christmas dinner followed, complete with fantastic food, the classic pupil–staff quiz, an embarrassing gossip poem, and the muchanticipated 6a video — this year delivered in rap form.

Next up was House Art, always one of the more competitive events. The theme was Vintage Adverts, and we decided to base ours on the board game Dragon Quest — with a Broughton adaptation. Our version featured cartoon versions of other St Augustine’s Heads of House facing off against a fierce red dragon (our house mascot).

From painting faces to sketching dragons and glittering scales, it was a real team effort — and the final result was something the whole house could be proud of.

Finally, Broughton had the honour of hosting the Requiem in Canterbury Cathedral, which we have done annually for past years. Many of us sang in the King’s Chorus Choir, whilst others helped in the workings of the events.

A beautiful event in Canterbury Cathedral which Broughton are so lucky to be a part of!

It has been a real privilege to be Broughton’s Head of House this year. Being part of such a warm, supportive, and close-knit community has been one of the highlights of my five years at King’s. Thanks to Dr McVeigh and the house staff, Broughton continues to be a space of constant support, guidance, and encouragement. I know next year will be a huge success as well, with Anna Europkina taking over as Head of House whom I know will do a fantastic job.

Bailey

by Maria Belopolsky (6a, BY)

B

ailey House had a vibrant and rewarding year, filled with academic achievements, extracurricular highlights, and unforgettable moments.

Our small, international community thrived, supported by a dedicated team of staff who care for us like family and create a home from home. I joined King’s at the beginning of Sixth Form and was placed in Bailey. For me, it was a new country, a new school system, new people — but one very old house, defined not just by its architecture but by its spirit. We kicked off the year with our annual open-air cinema under the stars.

This year’s screening of Back to the Future raised funds for the Evie Dove Foundation and, as always, brought the house together and welcomed pupils and staff from across the school into our garden, turning a cosy night into something purposeful. Our House Song, ‘Heaven is a Place on Earth’ by Belinda Carlisle, could not have been more fitting.

The joy, volume, and unity with which we sang were unmistakable. Special thanks go to Alma Green for her leadership and energy in guiding us through it. That same spirit carried us through the year, across interhouse competitions, A’ Level preparation, and day-to-day school life. Bailey performed exceptionally well in various inter-house events.

We proudly took first place in inter-house squash, placed inter-house badminton, and placed in House Art with our retro-style advert for Bailey’s Irish Cream. The artwork’s bottle label was filled with Bailey-specific references and now hangs in our common

room. It has been a good year in the culinary department at Bailey. One of the standout moments was our Lunar New Year cooking session with Ms Wang, where we, under her guidance, prepared traditional Chinese dishes. The kitchen was filled with incredible aromas and great food. It was a true highlight of the year and a much-needed pause from the busyness of Sixth Form life.

Alongside this, the unofficial Bailey baking circuit continued strong, fuelled by Mrs Bell’s brownies (the best – no contest), and an ongoing stream of spontaneous treats from the girls. Our Bailey House Concert, held in the heart of winter, was both hilarious and heart-warming. Despite the sore-throated MC, the event featured a range of talents — some we already knew and celebrated, and others that took us by surprise. The evening perfectly expressed the energy, humour, and

creativity that define Bailey. As the academic year comes to a close, our 6as prepare to take their next steps, with exciting university offers, career plans, and goals for the future.

We are proud of all they have accomplished and confident that they will go on to achieve remarkable things. The 6bs will now step up and take on their roles, with new House Monitors and a new Head of House to care for and lead the house in the coming year.

It has been an honour and a joy to serve as Head of House this year. I am immensely proud of all that Bailey has achieved and of the community we have continued to build. I will miss it dearly and look forward to hearing about the house’s future successes.

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Carlyon

by Nathan Sumner (6a, CY)

C

arlyon House had another actionpacked and exciting year, starting with welcoming 14 enthusiastic Shell boys to the house (now risen to 16).

This year’s new leadership team included Will Holland as Vice-Captain of School, Nathan Sumner as Head of House and both Tom Hutchings and Sam Ridge as deputies.

We welcomed Ms Burrows and Mrs Ladd to the Shell tutor team and Kelly as matron on Mondays. Mid-way through the Lent Term we said farewell to Mr Swash (and Bowie), who moved away from tutoring duties. The new Shell buddy system, where the Shells had a welcoming coffee with some 6a’s, proved a great success.

Carlyon’s dominance in the Shell Cross Country set the tone for our sporting year, with Harry OR placing 1st, Ferdie 2nd, Freddie F 3rd and Rupert 6th, thus securing the Junior Shell Cup. Other strong performances included Daria 2nd in the intermediate girls and in the senior boys race Sam R 2nd and Nathan 4th, leading to Carlyon winning the senior boys competition and therefore overall Boys cup. On 15 September Alec B and his mother were victorious in the annual two-generation tennis tournament with Dom and his brother taking second place. We also congratulated three 6bs who became honorary scholars – Flavia, Sage and Xiao Xiao, in recognition of their excellent GCSE results. Our sporting successes continued throughout the year, with many playing in the 1st rugby team, 1st lacrosse, 1st hockey and 1st sailing teams. The senior girls won house hockey with our predominantly Fifth Form team securing a memorable 2-0 win in the final against the LX 6as. House netball was also a highlight: with only 22 girls in CY (and no 6as), we won all seven matches to claim the cup.

Our House Song entry, ‘Piano Man’ (Billy Joel), expertly conducted by Will H, was sung beautifully and it was widely regarded as a travesty that we were not placed. Other house competitions saw strong showings in squash, senior football, and lacrosse, with the senior team joint winners alongside WL. We also reached the semi-finals in general 28

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knowledge and house badminton and put in spirited efforts in debating, rowing and sailing (in which Oscar S won best Junior Helm). Our two bake sales raised a phenomenal £2,300 for World Child Cancer and the Brain Tumour Charity. Thanks to all who baked! In early November we enjoyed a tri-day house social around a fire-pit in the courtyard with squirty cream-topped hot chocolate. The Carlyon House Concert in March was full of musical talent including jazz sax duets from Sam and Nathan, band performances, and even comedy with the 6a boys in a great performance of ‘Party in the USA’. Additionally, we had a large cohort of the house involved in Legally Blonde, with Kitty and Flavia taking lead roles. Our House Art entry, a ‘Carlyon King’ vintage

advert, turned out well thanks to the hard work of some talented Fifths. In May we congratulated Charlie F-J for winning a polo tournament. Well done to Nathan, who continued to represent England hockey this year. Victor represented the Shells at the annual Global Perspectives Presentation evening with an excellent talk entitled ‘How the intervention of the CIA affected Chile’s long-standing democracy in 1973.’ This July we say farewell to Mr Green and wish him good luck when he takes on his new role as the HSM of the fourth day house. We welcome Mr Sherwin as our new Deputy Housemaster, Kitty as next Head of House, Sage as deputy, with Elly and Flavia taking up monitor roles in the school. They will all do a fantastic job.

Galpin’s

by Alex Song (6a, GL)

I

t has been quite an eventful year for Galpin’s, another year layered with growth, camaraderie, friendship and a great house spirit. First and foremost, I would like to remind anyone reading that our rowing excellence stands strong. As per Galpin’s tradition, we have won another year of interhouse rowing, our 13th victory in the past 16 years. Other notable wins include house squash and the geography pub quiz.

Our greatest success this year must be our Hoops for Hope charity event, where we raised money by scoring basketball hoops in our garden for the charity Toilet Twinning, which builds latrines in developing countries where people suffer from sanitation-related diseases. In the end we managed to raise £1760. During Christmas, we continued the tradition of supporting our local community by selecting our best singers to sing Christmas carols at Homespire House, a local retirement home. The residents were delighted by the festive melodies. This was a truly heartwarming experience and emphasizes the importance of togetherness during the holiday season. This year was a great year for leadership, especially in the fields of sport. Five of our house members this year are sport captains. This includes Daniel Dittrich as Captain of Sailing, Daniel Seo as Captain of Squash, Harry Phung as Captain of Basketball, Lev Bosky as Captain of Fencing and Alex Song as Captain of Swimming. Our commitment, along with our

house’s unwavering support, has made this year truly memorable. Our house excels not only in sport, but in music. We are proud to have eight music scholars this year, with one of our scholars, Samuel Chang, reaching Diploma 2 on the piano in the Summer Term.

Speaking of music, this year’s house song was a true highlight. Led by Alex Tarsia, we sang an acapella ‘Uptown Girl’ by Billy Joel. It was a full house effort with every pupil sacrificing their own free time to rehearse together, and the result was nothing short of spectacular.

The energy, harmony and camaraderie on stage truly captured the spirit of our house.

This year like so many before has shown that, when we come together, we can achieve remarkable things. As we look ahead to the future, I am sure the next generation will carry on our spirit of friendship, generosity and integrity, encapsulating the spirit of our house motto, ‘vigilat validus’: ‘the strong man is watchful’.

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Harvey House

by Hannah Kyanda (6a, HH)

E

very year, being a Harvey girl has been more exciting than the last.

This year the house was back to being full after a year without Shells and the house felt complete again. The new Shells were welcomed with the utmost enthusiasm and warmth from the already-existing Harvey girls along with a whole new year of Removes. What most new heads of houses would fear experiencing with a new year group is the new personalities, but this is not the case for Harvey because we thrive on an eclectic atmosphere with the girls constantly pleasantly surprising you with their own unique takes on life.

did not end there because we moved swiftly into the inter-house events from hockey to netball, where every member of Harvey, even though the sport was out of their comfort zones, really came together and worked cohesively as a team. From the sporting events to the atmosphere in house, every member has played their role appropriately expressing the Harvey spirit. When it came to exams, the house atmosphere shifted from one that is always upbeat and playful to one that was productive and respectful.

Every girl has really worked hard this year to balance work with play, filling me with confidence in all their academic successes.

As the first term went ahead, the new girls were quickly bursting out of their shells just in time for the annual House Song competition. This year Harvey put on a spectacular performance of ‘The Greatest Show’ from The Greatest Showman, showing the energy and vocal prowess of all the girls.

The whole house came together in what at first would have been viewed as chaotic but in true Harvey spirit, and with the help of our most musically talented, we put on what I can only describe as one of our best performances yet. To wrap up the Autumn Term Harvey held our own annual Secret Santa allowing relationships to grow and bonds to strengthen as we sneakily found out more about each other with anonymous surveys and thoughtful gifts. The teamwork

Our house tutors helped enable a conducive work atmosphere by always supporting the girls when needed. All these achievements and activities would not be possible without the help of the teachers, tutors, staff, and Harvey 6a’s around Harvey: from the cleaners, who have always worked tirelessly, to the matron’s rule with an iron fist, making sure everyone was present in their lessons and well looked after. The Harvey tutor team, led by our acting Deputy Housemistress, Ms. Cho, have gone above and beyond this year, not only ensuring academic success but also supporting and checking on the general well-being of the girls. However, this year Harvey has suffered a tinge of sadness with the knowledge of Mrs Cook coming to the end of her 12 years as housemistress. Mrs

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Cook, along with Mr Cook, have made an almost effortless attempt in the successful running and leadership of the house. From the Saturday night snacks to the alwaysenjoyable quiz nights, the Cooks have played a large role in the making of the memorable and family-like environment experienced in only a house like Harvey. So, with a heavy but optimistic heart on behalf of all the Harvey girls, I wish the Cooks the best of luck in their new adventures in life with all the happiness and excitement of new opportunities to come. In the same breath, the house happily welcomes the new leading family of Harvey, the Duttons, knowing that they will seamlessly fill in the spaces left by the Cooks and continue to uphold the values and nature of Harvey.

I also wish our next Head of House, Noura Shahab Kayali, and Deputy Head of House, Aida Kavuma, the best of luck, although I have confidence in them thriving in their new roles. I will miss my time in Harvey, but I look forward to the future, wishing all the 6a’s and other departing members of the house all the best, knowing they take a piece of Harvey with them into the world.

Jervis

by Lisa Yeh (6a, JR)

T

his year has been another truly memorable chapter for Jervis, one filled with laughter, achievements, and unforgettable moments. While the months passed, Jervis girls grew not only as individuals but as a community. Bonds were strengthened and challenges met with resilience and joy. Together, we’ve created a year worth cherishing. We kicked off the academic year with one of the most anticipated events at King’s, House Song. The girls poured their energy and enthusiasm into a stunning choir performance of ‘Lovely’

by Billie Eilish. In the lead-up to the big night, rehearsals stretched into the evenings, filled with harmonies, determination, and just occasionally a bit of chaos. Although we didn’t walk away with the trophy, the performance was nothing short of breathtaking and the beauty of our effort left a lasting impression on all who watched.

course, Sports Day. Jervis competed fiercely and showed unwavering support for one another across every track and field event.

The day also highlighted with the ice cream truck parked in the sunshine, followed by a long and much-needed exeat weekend for us to rest and recharge. Reflecting on the year, it’s clear that Jervis has not only grown stronger but closer. Every memory has added a stitch to the fabric of our community. We can’t wait to see how Jervis continues to grow, inspire, and shine in the years to come.

Not long after, we slowed down for a wholesome and heartwarming Galentine’s Evening.

With chocolate-dipped strawberries, handwritten notes, and laughter echoing through the halls, the girls celebrated friendship in its truest form.

These quiet moments, full of kindness and connection, reminded us that some of the most meaningful memories are found in the smallest gestures.

A clear highlight of the term was our Dumpling Night. On a cozy Sunday, Jervis came alive with the sound of chatter while we folded dumplings together. The evening unfolded with spirited games of Mahjong and cards, creating an atmosphere that was as deliciously fun as the food itself. As we entered the second term, our excitement reached a peak with Jervis’s very first House Charity Event — a proud and purposeful initiative supporting Cancer Research UK. Titled ‘Can You Beat a Teacher In…?’, the event invited students to face off with their teachers in a series of thrilling challenges: Mario Kart, basketball, Rubik’s Cube, arm wrestling, sit-ups, Genius Square, and more.

The night was a huge success, and best of all we raised over £1,000 for charity! Summer Term brought with it sunshine, spirit, and, of CANTUARIAN | 2025

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Kingsdown

by Bella Richardson (6a, KD)

K

ingsdown has yet again had a successful year here at King’s and I could not be prouder of all we have achieved under the new leadership of Mrs Galmés-Davies, Kingsdown’s housemistress. Starting off strong, the girls have raised an incredible £10k for St Guy’s and Thomas’s hospital as well as for Pumping Marvellous, putting together all our efforts to host an amazing charity lunch at Birley’s. The afternoon included an exciting auction and bidding for the various prizes on offer and entertainment from each year group, making the event more than successful.

On the sporting side, we have kept up with previous successes, winning both the junior interhouse netball as well as the junior cross-country and placing third in the interhouse lacrosse. The talent in each year group is undeniable and the girls never fail to pull through during house competitions. Our in-house families have allowed girls across all year groups to get to know one another better and make friendships with both older and younger pupils, a key element to our amazing house spirit and unity. This is emphasized on Saturday nights when the house comes together for different activities. House favourites have been our annual house quiz led by the 6as, our post house-song dancing, and Christmas-decorationmaking. It’s safe to say you will never be bored on a Saturday with us! I wish all the best for KD going forward and will never forget the unforgettable memories I have made here.

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Linacre

by James Wills (6a, LN)

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t’s been another busy and successful year in Linacre. From the outset, the boys threw themselves into boarding life with enthusiasm. The year began with the traditional cross-country competition, where Linacre’s house spirit was on full display, with the sounds of ‘Black and Yellow’ blasting throughout Birley’s. The highlight was the Intermediate race, where Alex Clayton delivered an outstanding performance to win, closely followed by Alfie Alan who placed third – a strong start to the year that set the tone for the months ahead. Soon after came one of the house’s proudest traditions: the annual charity dinner in support of Porchlight. The boys planned, cooked, and served an incredible meal, and provided the entertainment for the evening, which included a quiz, a raffle, a silent auction, and musical performances throughout the evening. The result was an impressive £13,000 raised for a fantastic cause, and a clear example of Linacre’s ability to pull together.

providing a welcome break from revision.

Summer was also a term of sporting success in Linacre with a clean sweep on Sports Day, winning the Junior, Senior and Overall competitions. Individual brilliance also shone through, with Alex Clayton taking a superb five-wicket haul for the First XI cricket team.

As we look ahead to next year, the house is in excellent hands. Rupert Brett has been appointed Vice-Captain of School, and Louis Plasket will lead as Head of House. Backed by a committed and talented year group, the house is confident that he will help guide Linacre to continuing on its successful path.

With so many achievements to celebrate, in charity, performance, sport and leadership, it has been a year that reflects what it means to be a ‘Linacre Gent’: Proud, Humble and Noble.

Despite the demands of the charity dinner, the boys, under the leadership of Stirling Hampton and Charlie Lineker, managed to prepare themselves for the House Song competition. The performance of Ed Sheeran’s ‘Castle on the Hill’ showcased all the boys’ hard work in preparing the song and secured a Linacre victory. Returning for the Spring Term, the focus shifted quickly back to the Arts, with the return of the Linacre Showcase. The night featured an incredible mix of performances, including choral pieces from the Linacre men, a multitude of different instrumental performances, comedy skits from all year groups, with Mr Lister making an appearance, as well as dance routines by the Shells and Removes.

The evening, of course, was rounded off by Brock, who carried on the Kingsland rapping tradition, with a showstopping rendition of ‘Jump Around’. The Summer Term, as always, brought a vibrant energy to the house.

With exam pressures looming for the Fifths and 6as, the house still found time to fully use the ping pong table, and the back yard, with numerous games of football and shmicket CANTUARIAN | 2025

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Luxmoore

by Matilda Eriksson (6a, LX)

L

uxmoore House has had a very busy year, with all members featuring in some area of the King’s School life.

This is no real surprise, as this is what we are best known for. The year started with an excellent bunch of Shells joining, all getting stuck into everything, from the Malthouse stage to the orchestra in the Shirley Hall.

The younger years also had many successes, with them winning junior house lacrosse and many getting involved in the General Knowledge quiz. Sport has certainly been an area that Luxmoore has consistently done well in, from winning house rowing, coming second in Sports Day, second in house netball, second in house hockey, as well as coming first and second in house badminton.

It is safe to say that all the girls are capable of many things, especially when the house spirit is so high.

Luxmoore is certainly known for the energy and passion that we bring to any event, and this was certainly established in House Song at the start of the year. This event truly

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allowed for the girls to work together whilst also having fun. Another event that was truly unifying was the house Danceathon that was put on in the Easter Term by our Deputy Head of House, Mrs Outram. This event was also a huge success, because it not only raised huge amounts of money for the school charity of the term but also allowed some girls to learn a dance or two from the previous year’s Kidaco repertoire.

We also had the Luxmoore Showcase in this term and this allowed for all talents to be displayed, from singing to acting to even baking! It was truly a spectacular night that highlighted many passions and interests the girls have.

The end of the year entails the business of King’s Week, and with rehearsals already starting it is safe to say that a Luxmoore girl always appears in every event, from the infamous sold-out Jazz on a Summer Sunset to the spectacular performance of Wuthering Heights. It truly is going to be a spectacular week, and I can’t wait to support

everyone who is participating. It has been an honour to serve as this year’s Head of House, and I wouldn’t have had as good a time if it hadn’t been for Dr Wilper, Mrs Outram and all the other lovely tutors and staff members in house. I am very excited to hand on the baton of leadership to Zara Brett, to whom I wish the best of luck, as well as the rest of the house. This year has been exceptional, and I look forward to hearing of everyone’s excellence and successes in the years to come.

Marlowe

by Portia Alford (6a, MR)

T

o say Marlowe has gone above and beyond this year would be an understatement. The year began with our esteemed Dr Johnson stepping down as Deputy House Master, and the wonderful Mr Henderson joining us in the Autumn Term.

The individual successes in Marlowe have been outstanding to say the least. Our 6b, Chelsea Nong, has been involved in a multitude of external competitions, including the Maths Olympiad, and won The Erasmus ‘Charity of Ethics’ Essay Competition. Likewise, Pani Cochrane in 6b was appointed Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet for Kent. Both Augustin Cook and Chelsea Nong represented King’s in Estonia’s Young Enterprise exhibition. Noah-Rendro Castro crossed the North Sea and Channel on a sailing expedition, and Jack Beckley in Fifth had six selections to represent Team GB for international epeé fencing. Interhouse and teacher-student competitions had high collaboration and commitment this year. We saw multiple successes and achievements within these, including a win for the junior interhouse football, followed by a close second for the seniors. Archie Eddy in 6a Archie Eddy and Matron Kelly entered the Senior Darts Competition dressed as bananas. Our retro Marmite advert for House Art was a huge success, with our housemaster Mr Harrison’s favourite sage green being the background. We now have sage green walls, carpets and now even green art. I have the slightest suspicion that there’s a theme. Speaking of which, after years of hesitation, Mr Harrison has finally drawn up ideas for the house kit, which I hope to see the whole house wearing in the new term. I bet you couldn’t possibly guess what the colour scheme is.

The biggest highlight of the year was placing in the annual House Song competition, where Marlowe came third with a song differing from Mr Harrison’s pick, ‘Gangsta’s Paradise.’ Although we got a few laughs when the rapping began, these were quickly silenced by the unexpected angelic sound that came from the chorus. According to Mr

Harrison, it was the first time Marlowe has placed in over 25 years. The Marlowe House Concert is an event looked forward to by parents and students alike. We had amazing individual singers, pianists, drummers and violinists, along with group performances such as the 6a Ensemble’s rendition of ‘Brazil’ and the Shells singing ‘Espresso’.

Our house has also seen a significant involvement in Drama this year, with over ten members of the house contributing to the Legally Blonde performance in February, and Ismael Mills performing in the senior play, Clue. Unfortunately, at the end of this year, we say goodbye to our much-loved

Mrs Fell and Dr Johnson. Being Marlowe’s matron for over thirty years, Mrs Fell has decided to take her leave. Her retirement means that Matron, Kelly, will be stepping in full-time next year. We enjoyed giving Mrs Fell a proper send-off in the summer, with former OKS and Marlowe pupils wishing her well. We also say goodbye to Dr Johnson, former Deputy House Master and 6a tutor.

King’s will, unfortunately, be losing him to Brighton College. Dr Johnson, too, has been in Marlowe for over eight years. He will be greatly missed by pupils and teachers alike, but most of all by Mr Harrison’s furry friend, Bert.

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Meister Omers

by Tristan Watts (6a, MR)

I

t was a very busy and exciting year for Meister Omers, which should come as no surprise. The year began with an influx of new members to the house from new Shells and 6b’s to new staff members. In usual MO fashion, they all gelled seamlessly into the way of life here. Our next challenge was the ever-competitive house song.

This year we were led into battle by the amazing Toby Davies, who very patiently coached us through ‘Can’t take my eyes off you’ by Frankie Valli. Several weeks of hard work and dedication later, we were ready to compete. Every member of the house performed brilliantly and produced a sound I didn’t think was possible. A large portion of the credit for this must go to Toby for his resilience in keeping us both in tune and in time.

One of the highlights for me personally of the Autumn Term was our house trip to ‘Boonies’, an adventure obstacle course which definitely put some of us through our paces and was an excellent character- and team-building exercise. We ended the day by going down an incredibly mucky waterslide and then being treated to ice-creams.

An overall very memorable day! As the Christmas holidays were looming ever nearer, this could only mean one thing. It was time for our Christmas dinner. This entailed all of us looking smart in black tie and enjoying a lovely meal interspersed with some rather entertaining speeches. The evening went on as we traded stories and memories of our time at King’s. Then, once we had finished, we were joined by our sister house, Lady Kingsdown, for our yearly social. It was a night to remember with everybody on the dance floor till late into the night. One of our biggest events of the year is our annual Charity cycle ride. This sees us complete a 24hr cycle with the whole house involved.

This is a huge undertaking, and it is a logistical nightmare making sure everybody makes it to their slot on time and keeping everybody motivated, especially when they are on the bike at 3am. Despite this, spirits were high, and we made it to the end and could mostly still walk! This is an amazing event for a great cause and something I would be proud to be 36

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remembered for at King’s. Meister Omers has always been a prolific house when it comes to sports. This year saw house members as the rugby captains for the first and second team, the football captain for the first team, the badminton captain, and many other amazing achievements both individual and team. This year, MO won the interhouse senior football, which was an incredible victory. With three Purples in the house this year, one being Thomas Sturges, Captain of School, we partook in the Purples’ lacrosse match against the first team. This is always an exciting event with a huge turnout of spectators. Many questionable outfits and several penalties later, the Purples won a victory for the first time in several years.

However, MO is not a one-trick pony. Many pupils excel in the musical world too. From Shell to 6a, we took part in school concerts, the Requiem, orchestras, and choirs, as well as individual examinations. Additionally, our very own Toby was accepted to a conservatoire for an organ scholarship.

All these achievements aside, it has been an honour and privilege to have been MO’s Head of House this year. Our house is not just somewhere to stay while at King’s; it is a tight-knit family. This is partly down to the amazing staff throughout the house, from the matrons to the cleaning ladies, and of course Mr Singfield, Maria, and Maya. So, as the year comes to a close, I must pass the torch of Head of House to Lutendo Nematswerani who, I’m sure, will do an amazing job. Good luck!

Mitchinson’s

by Joseph Netley (6a, MT)

A

s usual, it has been a busy year in Mitchinson’s, especially because we welcomed our new Housemistress, Ms Budden, and her family to the house. Ms Budden is warm and kind and has settled into house life with infectious enthusiasm, organising numerous socials and house events. Even in her first year she has made a noticeable impact on house life, and we are very lucky to have her.

At the end of this year our long-serving Deputy, Mr Browning, will be finishing his tenure, although thankfully he is staying in the house. He seems to be an endless fountain of knowledge and wisdom, and I would like to thank him for all his support throughout my time here.

It is hard to believe my five years at King’s are coming to an end, but it has been a pleasure to be a part of the Mitchinson’s community and to be Head of House. I wish the 6b’s the best of luck in their final year and also wish good luck to our next Head of House, Kenzie O’Neill, and congratulate Dora Wang for being appointed Head Scholar. It has

also been a successful year for the house, and although it is hard to list all of our individual achievements, I will do my best to summarise. We put up a strong performance across the board in inter-house events this year.

made it across the line and won the ‘tree of knowledge’. We also managed to beat a team made up of the senior leadership team (Ms Lowson, Mr Patton, Mr Key and Miss Dolan), to win the school a home clothes day as a reward.

In sport, our junior girls team placed first in inter-house hockey, and the girls also came first in the school Sports Day, while we achieved second place in both junior lacrosse and netball, both boys and girls inter-house squash, inter-house swimming, as well as in both junior and senior interhouse football. We also placed second in the fiercely competitive house art competition, with a refined and creative advert design led by Fumi St-Charles but assisted by many other talented artists.

Outside of competition, we have been very active in the Arts. Our house concert showcased all our musical talent and was superbly organised by Joseph Dingle, who put on a real show. Speaking of shows, our whole-school musical, Legally Blonde, featured many MT pupils as a very high percentage of the cast, and was nominated in the National School Theatre Awards.

Knowing how much we have done this year, I think I have probably missed quite a lot of equally great achievements. But I am confident we will be onto even bigger and better things next year.

Our senior inter-house debating team of Holly Piccinin and Kenzie O’Neill won first place – a third consecutive victory for the house, while our juniors placed second.

Finally, our inter-house general knowledge team of Pippa Jones, Raf Cable, Milly Cordeaux, Dora Wang and myself finally

What has really made my time in Mitchinson’s special is the house spirit and camaraderie that have slowly developed each year, and I really hope this will continue to flourish in the future.

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School House

by Boude Igbokwe (6a, SH)

W

ell, it’s been another successful year for School House. Across every facet of life at King’s, School House has shown passion and success individually and, more importantly, our success as a whole. What’s more is how we have come together as a house across the year with the house in a very good position as we come to the end of the year. Individual successes continue to flourish for the boys within School House. From a sporting perspective, we have 16 boys representing first teams in the school across 11 sports, ranging from rugby, football and cricket to fencing, swimming and golf. Furthermore, Theo Carmichael has received the Michael Foale Scholarship, marking the second consecutive year in which someone in School House has received the scholarship. Additionally, the House continues to thrive in performing arts with ever-increasing numbers participating in Drama, whilst music continues to be a strong point of the house with boys in various choirs, orchestras and bands.

The usual events have brought us together, with House Song once again being a major success, in which we delivered an entertaining, albeit slightly questionable performance of ‘Call Me Maybe’, complete with our now-infamous dance moves.

The now-annual charity sea swim brought the house together, with nearly everyone braving the sea and creating shared laughter and memories.

Moreover, the Mint Yard has continued to be a place which brings the house together with a wide range of sports being played, with volleyball now taking precedence, which has allowed for a hugely inclusive environment. This year also saw the whole house engage in a game of American football, which saw a close-fought battle and a lot of fun, highlighting once again the community within School House. The year has seen changes to the leadership within the house. Two new tutors joined – Mr Odev and Miss Frances, who have both been great additions. Meanwhile, Mr Sherwin will be leaving the house at the end of the year, marking a brief but enjoyable stint as a tutor in School House.

As we look ahead to next year, the house undoubtedly remains in good hands, with Charlie Nosworthy having been appointed as the next Head of House, ready to leave his mark.

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The grange

by Henry Elliott (6a, GR)

T

he Grange was under the leadership of Henry Elliott as Head of House this year, with Mikhail Patsvald and Isak Syltevik Dobson as deputies. After a year of Miss Ariani spreading her joy across the house, we sadly had to say goodbye at the end of the summer half-term. However, this meant we were treated to the arrival of Mr Outen as our matron helping support Mrs Simpson. The formation of the new Grange Close harmony group will hopefully be here to stay, after some very successful performances singing at the Christmas Dinner and Grange Walpole Charity Dinner, not to mention the first-ever Grange-only group to perform in a Friday at 5:15 concert, when ten of our boys performed ‘Wonderful Christmas Time’ by Paul McCartney. Despite the fact that we have many brilliant singers in the house, we were unable to win House Song this year, but it is safe to say everyone loved being a part of the best house event of the year, where this year we sang ‘Isn’t She Lovely’ by Stevie Wonder, featuring Will and Felix on kazoos! In the sporting world, we have had a successful year, firstly with Thanyani Nematswerani helping the school 1st XV rugby team to many victories this season with his very strong performances in the front row. Alfred Yang, our new Head of

House, came second in the National Schools fencing competition in Sheffield, where he narrowly lost in a tough final. Shell, Dmitry Krutov, has also represented the school first team for tennis. The Grange football team had much less success than in previous years but due to some injuries, including to our goalkeeper Mikhail Patsvald, we were unable to get to the semifinals of the competition. However, all the boys involved showed great skill, fight and teamwork when playing in our new house kit. A more important footballing event in the house is the Grange vs Tradescant match, which we won, and there was nothing Mr Harrison’s refereeing could do about it. The Grange’s annual house concert with Walpole was once again very successful, in terms of money raised and performances from both houses, and popular, with many parents attending, giving suitably rapturous applause after each performance. And we had an especially large, star-studded programme, ranging from Pablo Casals’ ‘O Vos Omnes’ to ‘Another Brick in the Wall’ by Pink Floyd.

While another very successful year in The Grange comes to an end, we say goodbye to another year of well-matured 6a’s and await the arrival of the new Shells to carry on the legacy our 6a’s have left behind.

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Tradescant

by Norman Balcomb (6a, TR)

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his past year has been one of remarkable success in Tradescant House, with many achievements and lots of enjoyment for all. Tradescant has done tremendously well in lots of interhouse events, such as becoming House Rowing champions, coming second overall on Sports Day and giving some excellent performances from many of the boys in Cross-Country.

The best thing that has come from all these inter-house competitions is that every single person in house has competed on multiple occasions, and when they have done so they have given their all for the house. This has been excellent to see throughout the year. There have been even more individual achievements, too. There are way too many to write down, so here are some of the highlights from this past year: Robert Haughton won the Boy’s Inter-House CrossCountry; Cameron Fuller achieved a Gold Certificate in both the Biology and Chemistry Olympiads (he went on to rank 6th-8th nationally for the latter); Sean Qian achieved a Gold Certificate in the Physics Olympiad; Ealye Masiero and Eric Wang continued their successes in the school fencing team; at the National Finals, Erik Groth, Archie Brown and Ian Chan represented the school’s golf team made up of boys solely from Tradescant; Sonny Smith took on a lead role in the school musical, Legally Blonde; and the likes of Archie Butterfill, Petro Usenko, Conrad Fuller, Elliot Meyer and Zach Zgonec-Jones have all contributed to another successful year of rowing.

In terms of events, the house slept out for the second year running, this time for the Bevern Trust, nominated by Deputy Head of House, Sonny Smith, because he has volunteered there in the past. We raised over £4000, which without doubt will go an extraordinarily long way to helping those with severe disabilities. We also hosted the annual Trad-Broughton concert, where parents from both houses were treated to a delicious meal and varying top-quality entertainment. There have been many activities on offer for the boys in house over the weekends: two trips to play padel, movie 40

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nights, laser tag, fire pits and games nights galore, as well as lots of football on backfield and plenty of touch rugby played on Dovecote Lawn. We have welcomed many new members of staff: Mr Outen joined as a new PCA, whilst Mr Illsley, Mr French and Mr Mostert have settled in as new tutors, with the latter set to become our new Deputy Housemaster. Unfortunately, we have also had to say goodbye to some of our other members of staff: both matrons, Miss Young and Miss Ariani, are set to leave the house by the end of the year. Tutors, Mr Dilkes and Mr Barrett, have also left the house.

Finally, our Deputy Housemaster, Mr Pope, is to leave the school for pastures new over the summer. We wish everybody above the best of luck wherever their future lies. Many congratulations must go to George Stringer, elected Head of House, and Daniel Tsang, who was selected as a school monitor.

Under their leadership, alongside their peers, there’s no doubt they can achieve much with such a talented bunch of boys in Tradescant. A big thank you goes out to all the 6a’s for their contributions and for leading the house to such a high standard.

Finally, a massive thank you must go to our Housemaster, Mr Harrison, who is the true mastermind behind all that happens in Tradescant, and I am sure that the house will continue to flourish under his rule in the coming years.

WALPOLE

by Eleanor Symons (6a, WL)

Y

et again I am wondering where on earth this year has gone, but on this occasion I now have the liberty to reminisce about my entire time at King’s and, most importantly, Walpole. The house truly has been the most magical community in King’s for me and despite being an only child I can now say I know how it feels to have sisters (including all the ups and downs).

Walpole this year has been a house of great successes, albeit with some organised chaos that keeps us all on our toes, and it’s been a pleasure to lead the house. The first major event of the year was the annual House Song in which, under the leadership of Deputy Head of House, Cat Bennett, we won second place (being robbed of first). We then had various interhouse sports events, including hockey, lacrosse (in which we came joint first with Carlyon for the second year running), sailing, rowing, badminton and tennis. Our charity event this year was a continuation of the Carnations Café, which saw people

from the school visit the social centre for some informal music performance, cookie decorating, bubble tea and flower bouquets.

We managed to raise over £600 with the help of all the house and it was a great success for the whole school, especially among the dark winter nights. The house art competition was led by Anthony Liu, who produced a fantastic picture inspired by a vintage advert featuring my own face (a rather freakish experience) as well as those of some tutors in the house.

This year also saw the 90th anniversary of Walpole as a house, which was an incredible event, and we saw people from throughout the decades come together for the day.

There were tours of house followed by drinks in the garden and a speech from Mrs Ridley and me and music from girls in the house. It was thoroughly enjoyable to hear from all the old boys about their days being in Walpole and their mischief (which I won’t repeat for fear of getting in trouble).

Being in 6a means it’s finally time to say

goodbye to my home from home for the last five years. In celebration of leaving, the 6a’s had a dinner held in Walpole for the first time, in which tutors cooked a delicious three-course dinner for us. It was a gorgeous event for all and was the moment when I realised that it really was coming to an end. Yet with the 6a’s leaving the 6b’s step up into the role as the eldest in the house and school, which we all know they will be incredible at. There are (I believe) a record five Purples in the house and I hand my gown to Chiara Boiteux to take over the position as Head of House!

It’s been a pleasure to be in the house for my time at King’s and I’ve loved every second of being Head of House in my last year. I’ll miss it hugely and wish the best for everyone in Walpole.

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Clubs

& Societies

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Debating Club

by Toby Nieman (6b, LN)

D

ebating Club this year has been busy and has had the most success of any season in recent history. Our new Head of Debating this year is long-time member of debating, Mr Corbyn, taking over from Mr Michael Cox. Over the year we attended eight different major competitions, including several rounds of qualifiers and two prestigious international finals. The competitions were: ESU Churchill (Public Speaking); Oxford Schools Regional Round; Cambridge Schools Regional Round; ICYD (The International Competition for Young Debaters); Imperial Seniors; Imperial Juniors; Oxford Schools Finals Day; Cambridge Schools Finals Day. A number of competitions did not run this year, or clashed with exeats, or clashed with each other. We hope to return to ESU Mace (Debating); South Hampstead High School Debating Competition; KCL Schools; UCL (Winter Cup); and LSE Seniors and Juniors next year.

‘Over the year we attended eight different major competitions, including several rounds of qualifiers and two prestigious international finals.’

The school saw great success in the Oxford and Cambridge competitions: Celine Cai (6a, WL) and Toby Nieman (6b, LN) represented King’s at the Oxford Finals, while Julian Huang (5, IC/GR) and Uliana Eroshina (6a, BY) competed at the Cambridge Finals, testing their skill against some of the world’s best debaters, including members from Team England, India, Singapore, and Canada.

Senior Interhouse Debating was won by Mitchinson’s, who continued a three-year winning streak: Holly Piccinin (6b, MT) and Kenzie O’Neill (6b, MT) successfully defended the concept of justice over mercy whilst Junior Debating was won by Marlowe (Sh, MR) with May Coats, Monty Butler, and Rebekah Okesola (Sh, MR), who won their final by arguing that ecologists should focus on winning public support over taking radical action.

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the

Morpurgo Society

by Mrs Lucy Stansfield

T

he highlights for the Morpurgo Society this year have been two author visits. We welcomed Natasha Randall (OKS) to run a creative writing workshop entitled ‘Welcoming the Reader’. Natasha guided students through narrative openings and suggested ways to include the reader, making them feel at home from the outset of a story. The impact of her teaching was immediate and many ‘Annabel (A original and engaging short stories were born on a F) Steadman dark November evening in Walpole Common Room.

(OKS) took us In March, Annabel (A F) Steadman (OKS) took us to to The Island The Island of Skandar and Scoundrel for a night of ‘Bloodthirsty Unicorns to Time-Travelling Assassins’. of Skandar Annabel spoke of her creative influences whilst and Scoundrel at King’s and introduced us to the concept of a for a night of ‘Reading Well’ – the pool of texts that have inspired ‘Bloodthirsty and resonated with her from childhood. Skandar is now poised for the final instalment, Skandar and the Unicorns.’

Spirit War, to be published in August 2025 and we were intrigued to hear more about her first fantasy novel for adults, TimeLess, due to be released in 2026. We were joined by JKS students for a memorable and entertaining evening, and it was an enormous honour to hear, from one of our own, a timely reminder about the power of storytelling.

the

Pater

Society

T

by Mr William Corbyn

he Pater Society was glad to receive once again Nicolò Benzi from the University of Kent. We have been able to take advantage of the university’s campus in Canterbury to receive many excellent talks from experts in the field of Classics over the years. A returning speaker at King’s, Dr Benzi gave a talk in the Gateway Chamber on epistemology in ancient thought. In particular, he discussed the transition from divine authority over truth to other ways of thinking. This talk was a mix of more and less familiar, since it started with Homer’s Odyssey and Iliad, mainstays of the Classics curriculum, but moved on to discuss the ideas of lesser-known Greek philosophers from before the time of Socrates. It was well received and a wonderful opportunity to spend some time with the Philosophy Department.

Later in the year, we welcomed back another returning speaker, the author Ben Kane. He came dressed as a Roman soldier to give two talks at the senior school, as well as visiting JKS. His first talk was, as usual, to the Shells on the Roman army. Personally, I never fail to be amused by the Shells’ reactions to Mr Kane’s insights into the more gruesome aspects of daily life in the Roman army, such as the communal sponge in the latrines. This year, his other talk in the Shirley Hall was

about the Emperor Augustus.

This brought together Shells who wanted to hear more and sixth formers who were either studying an A’ Level module on the princeps or studying literature intrinsically linked to the Augustan period.

This year offered an exciting opportunity to go on a trip beyond Canterbury while remaining local.

The acclaimed classicist and broadcaster Bettany Hughes came down to the Faversham Literary Festival. There, a group of sixth formers and some teachers were able to enjoy her talk related to her book on the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It was a wonderful opportunity in many ways. Ms Hughes enlightened us on the small details of the classical world, such as the fact that we know the names of individuals who worked on these monuments; the lesser known but incredibly influential cities of Ephesus and other cities beyond Athens and Sparta; and the connections between the Greek, Persian and Egyptian worlds and cultures. CANTUARIAN | 2025

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the

Linacre

Medical Society

by Dr Helen Vaughan

T

his year we have had a medic group of about 20-30 pupils from Fifth, 6b and 6a who attend weekly (and sometimes twice-weekly) sessions for extracurricular support.

These include prospective medics, dentists and vets, with one or two Natural Scientists and possibly other high achievers who may not have made up their minds, or who are just interested. Attendance is open to anyone. This year we have had eleven applicants for medical-related courses in 6a, plus about fifteen 6b pupils who have expressed an interest in medical courses.

This year, as has become habit, we began the academic calendar with a talk on the early application process, tips and strategic planning, with a visit from Dr Rachel Andrews BA (Hons) (Oxon), MBBS (London); MRCP (UK); CCST in Paediatric Cardiology. Dr Andrews is a successful cardiologist and has spoken to the medic group before about admissions and paediatric cardiology. She is also a parent of two recent OKS leavers, Lucy and Stephanie, both of whom were successful in their applications to different veterinary schools and one of whom has just graduated. At the start of the Autumn Term, we have print-outs from every medical, dental and vet school outlining their respective focus on GCSE, UCAT, A’ Level predictions or personal statements to help 6b pupils make strategic applications.

After early UCAS application comes the interview season. As well as weekly general skills and MMI practice, we organise and provide one-to-one practice interviews for 6a pupils who want them.

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In September, in conjunction with the Harvey Society, we invited prospective medics and other interested pupils to Adam Kay’s performance of ‘Undoctored’ at the Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury.

Pupils found it interesting, and many stayed to meet Adam Kay and purchase a signed copy of his books. Amazingly, nobody seemed deterred by some of his more unsettling stories. In March, in conjunction with YSJ, Mr Landymore, Mrs Budden and I took about twenty pupils to the Blavatnik awards talks in London, where pupils attended talks from nine award-winning expert professional scientists, meeting ‘Pupils found it them face to face to learn more and ask interesting, and questions. This is always an inspiring and many stayed to popular event. In-house sessions have meet Adam Kay included presentations on the history of the and purchase a NHS, the importance of work experience, ethical pillars, UCAT preparation and signed copy of his medical imaging as well as pupil-led books.’ sessions, including UCAT feedback from a pupil who excelled in the examination, book reviews and dissections.

In association with the Harvey Society, many of the Linacre Society were fortunate to have attended the annual Tonbridge Science Conference, organised by Miss Cho, where they presented work (talks or posters) and listened to the presentations of other pupils from the area.

There have also been plenty of opportunities for senior pupils to get involved helping out younger ones in Saturday Smarties or Family Fun Days with Miss Rooms, as some of our prospective medics have discovered. We wish all our outgoing 6a medics the best of luck and invite them to stay in touch, and perhaps come back to give a talk in the future. 

the

Harvey

science Society

by Miss Katherine Cho

W

e welcomed a number of speakers into the Science Auditorium. To kick off the year, Mr Luke Bartlett ran a ‘Chemistry of Wine’ session in September before his move to China, along with some practical tasting. This was extremely popular, but Mr Bartlett made the Chemists work hard by quizzing them on the organic chemistry behind wines. In November, we welcomed back Dr Jonathan Allday (former Head of Science and Teacher of Physics): ‘Science at the Movies’ was a highly interactive talk, coupled with clips from newer films, such as Interstellar, which many students recognised, to classics such as Thunderbirds, which was an education to some. After opening our Science Auditorium last year, Professor Sarah Gurr (SH 1974-76) returned to give a talk on the wonderful world of fungi, as well as some anecdotes about her time in School House and the lasting friendships she made. In February, Asha Rao gave a fascinating fast-paced tour through her varied career as a geologist across the world, including gold- and uranium-mining whilst testing our Geology students on their knowledge. We are so very grateful to all of our speakers and look forward to the next year of talks. I hope to see as many of you there again.

the

Marlowe Society

by Mr Oliver Ridley

I

Portrait thought by many to represent Kit Marlowe

n the Autumn Term Kira Cochrane, Features Editor of The Guardian, spoke on the importance of features writing in the 21st Century, and picked out some examples of where extended investigative journalism has had a positive effect on society. She also outlined her working day, which gave pupils an idea of the intensity of ‘The first session producing a daily newspaper. Our external looked at some speaker in the Lent Term was Professor bawdy AngloTiffany Stern of the Shakespeare Institute, Saxon riddles, who spoke on the different sources of the play Hamlet and the complications and by the end facing modern editors when producing an of the year we authoritative text. The 6a’s were offered had just about a showing of Almereyda’s Hamlet (2000), reached the and enjoyed Ethan Hawke’s brooding melancholy, and the 6b’s watched the start of the 20th NT’s recent production of The Grapes of Century.’

Wrath. Two enthusiastic groups have met weekly to read a selection of English poetry in chronological order.

The first session looked at some bawdy Anglo-Saxon riddles, and by the end of the year we had just about reached the start of the 20th Century. CANTUARIAN | 2025

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the

Cranmer Society

by Will Snook (6b, MR)

T

he Cranmer Society is an informal weekly meeting from 8:30pm to 9:30pm in the Pupil Social Centre. It is a society centred around Christianity, especially Jesus’ teaching on fellowship. In the meeting you have an opportunity to play table tennis, eat snacks or just chat with friends for the first 20 minutes.

Then we listen to a talk from a guest speaker. The talks range from how we use the Bible to the importance of controlling your tongue.

These are supported by the reading of scripture and prayer.

This year we had talks on a wide range of subjects, essentially reading and learning about the key themes of Christianity from a diverse group of speakers. We have had returning speakers such as Dan Halpin and Robert Keep, who have spoken to us on the importance of the heart in decision-making and Jesus’ encounter with two criminals next to him on the cross. We have also had current teachers speak to us, such as Mr Harrison (Tradescant), who talked to us about an undivided heart and the choice that leaves us with. In addition, we have had former pupil Theo Amies (SH) give us an eye-opening talk on his work spreading the Gospel amongst the opium addicts in Hong Kong. Last, in the Summer Term we started a series of talks called ‘Lifelines’. This series has ranged from a talk on living out faith from Father Paul Uwemedimo, who had ‘I love hearing the us taking part in a ‘faith Hakka’, and our different speakers most recent talk on the Bible by Mrs Nicci Gilchrist. each week coming

with a different outlook.’

The society has many traditions, such as the presentation of a book to all 6a members in the Summer Term ahead of them leaving King’s. However, one we’ve been enjoying this year is Sixth Form pupils interviewing the speaker ahead of the talk. The host begins by asking backstory questions so we learn about the journey the speaker has been on. This is then followed up by random quick-fire questions, such as ‘hot or cold?’ or ‘skiing or sledding?’ This all culminates in the most important question of the interview, the fabled question ‘What is your favourite flavour packet of crisps?’ This question usually results in many boos when the interviewer picks something wrong, like cheese and onion.

However, on a rare occasion they could pick the right option of prawn cocktail. Ultimately, the process allows us to bond with the speaker and welcome them into the group. In addition, the 20 minutes of downtime at the start gives us the opportunity to bond as a group, where an extensive range of foods are on offer, such as doughnuts and pizza. Some play games of table tennis or chat with friends.

Others wind down after a long day by reading a book.

To end, I asked a few members of The Cranmer Society what their favourite part of the evening is. Here are a few responses: Igbokwe Boude (SH): It’s both a social opportunity to wind down, relax and catch up but also an opportunity to expand my faith and speak to knowledgeable people who can help to interpret different

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aspects of life through faith. This has been the most important aspect of Cranmer for me.

Nicholas Smiley (MR): I find it a helpful time to hang out with friends from my year but also other years as well, as much as to learn about the Lord through clear talks from guest speakers and staff. It’s a great way to spend our Friday evenings.

Bryan Onwuka (MO): Cranmer to me feels like a breath of fresh air at the end of each week. Good time to get away from work and devote time to the things that really matter and always doing so in great company.

Ealye Masiero (TR): Cranmer is its own little community where anybody can feel welcome, no matter their reason for being there.

Hammond Sebastian (GL): Cranmer is a place for me to relax and ultimately be at peace with God. Amadi Treasure (JR): The Cranmer Society was my first independent act to explore my personal faith. Seeing people my age equally interested in understanding Christianity helped me realise that the religion was no longer that of my parents, but mine as well. I love hearing the different speakers each week coming with a different outlook and presenting ideas I have heard before in new and thoughtprovoking ways.

Mr Smiley (CY): When I was a pupil at boarding school the highlight of the week for me was meeting at 9pm with other pupils at our school Christian meeting. Yes, we got to make our own hot choc and we were allowed out of house, but the real value of that gathering was the fellowship. Some of my peers that I met up with on those Tuesday nights are lifelong friends: one officiated at my wedding; two are now godparents to my children. Through looking at the Bible together week by week, usually with a visiting speaker to explain it, we grew together in our fledgling faith. The Cranmer Society aims to provide a forum for pupils (and staff) of any age and from any house and at any stage of their faith journey, to meet for fellowship, food and to find out more from the Bible about what it means to follow Jesus. I am grateful to every one of our visiting speakers, many with real gifts for explaining and applying the Bible to teenagers, often travelling good distances. So, my favourite part of Cranmer?

Listening to the talk and then hearing the heartfelt and genuine questions that pupils ask afterwards. We have certainly been richly blessed this year! 

Visiting Speakers

Monday 16 September 2024 Biology Department Entry to Medical Dental and Vet Schools Dr Rachel Andrews MA (Oxon) MBBS FRCPCH formerly of Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital Science Auditorium

Wednesday 13 November 2024 Young Scientists Journal Rubber Ducks, Oceans and Ridiculous Hypotheticals about Jam Tarts Vanessa Madu Imperial College London Shirley Hall

Monday 7 October 2024 Pater Society (Classics) Mortal and Divine Knowledge in Early Greek Thought Dr Nicolo Benzi University of Kent Gateway Chamber

Tuesday 19 November 2024 Morpurgo Society (English) Welcoming the Reader: A Creative Writing Workshop Natasha Randall OKS (JR 1991-93) Walpole Common Room

Monday 4 November 2024 Club Hispano Multiculturalism in Cuba Dr William Rowlandson University of Kent Science Auditorium Tuesday 5 November 2024 Harvey Society (Science) Science at the Movies Dr Jonathan Allday former King’s Head of Science Science Auditorium Wednesday 6 November 2024 Pater Society (Classics) The Life of a Roman Soldier: Augustus – Man, Emperor, God Ben Kane Author Shirley Hall Wednesday 13 November 2024 Young Scientists Journal Gene Therapy Dr Amy Barker Oxford Biomedica Shirley Hall Wednesday 13 November 2024 Young Scientists Journal Biological Data Science Dr Mark Basham The Rosalind Franklin Institute Shirley Hall Wednesday 13 November 2024 Young Scientists Journal AI Use in Scientific Image Processing Dr Alexandre Paschoal The Rosalind Franklin Institute Shirley Hall

Wednesday 4 December 2024 Harvey Society (Science) Fungi Professor Sarah Gurr OKS (SH 1974-76) University of Exeter Science Auditorium Friday 6 December 2024 Cranmer Society (Christianity) Encounters with Jesus: Chasing the Dragon Theo Amies OKS (SH 2018-23) University of Sheffield Chums Monday 13 January 2025 Blaxland Society (Geography) Flood Risk Management Mr Michael Symons Jacobs Consultancy The Gateway Chamber Monday 13 January 2025 Club Hispano Picasso and ‘El Guernica’ Dr Antonio Lazaro-Reboll University of Kent Science Auditorium Monday 3 February 2025 History Department Reconstruction in the USA Dr Erik Mathisen University of Kent Science Auditorium Monday 3 February 2025 Blaxland Society (Geography) Hazard Risk Management Mr Harrison Jolly Ambipar Response Limited The Gateway Chamber

Friday 7 February 2025 Cranmer Society (Christianity) Genuine Faith Richard Hagan OKS (LN 1991-93) Emmanuel Church, Canterbury PSC Tuesday 11 February 2025 Socratic Society (Philosophy) Moral Logistics Graeme Forbes University of Kent Science Auditorium Monday 3 March 2025 Blaxland Society (Geography) Transport Planning Mr Joseph Ratcliffe Kent County Council Science Auditorium Wednesday 6 March 2025 History Department Discovering Charles the First Professor Richard Cust University of Birmingham Science Auditorium Sunday 11 March 2025 The Morpurgo Society (English) Bloodthirsty Unicorns and Travelling Assassins Annabel Steadman OKS (MR 2005-10) Author Science Auditorium Tuesday 25 March 2025 History Department The Good Friday Agreement Professor Thomas Hennessey CCCU Science Auditorium Wednesday 7 May 2025 History Department The Anglo-Saxon Pig Paul Cobb Writer and Retired Agricultural Advisor Science Auditorium Thursday 8 May 2025 History Department Witch-Hunting: Past and Present Professor Ronald Hutton CBE University of Bristol Science Auditorium

Wednesday 13 November 2024 Young Scientists Journal Science Communication and Why It Matters James Clarke Rothamsted Research Shirley Hall

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CCF

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by Cdt CSgt Lily Robertson (6b, LX)

W

hat does it take to turn a teenager 6bs departing on Ex KINGS SABRE alongside into a leader? Although it isn’t an The Royal School, a state-maintained school exact science, the King’s School in Wolverhampton. The gruelling multi-day Canterbury CCF has managed to master programme featured setting up observation this particular form of alchemy. This year posts to gather intelligence, a helicopter has seen the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) crash medical evacuation, section attacks at King’s continuing to progress and evolve, and a night ambush of the Royal Logistics with the cadets achieving remarkable Corps, who kindly volunteered as enemy. success. As our ranks have grown so too have our skills with King’s CCF boasting At the start of the academic year, Cdt its first ever 4-Star CSgt Pani Cochrane was qualified cadets. Major appointed Lord Lieutenant’s ‘The gruelling multi- Cadet for Kent, representing Goddard has taken the student leadership over 3,000 CCF cadets across day programme to a new standard by the county. She has spent featured setting up introducing more and the year serving as an Aideobservation posts to de-Camp for Lady Colgrain, more opportunities for the cadets to take assisting her at formal gather intelligence, responsibility and seize events and ceremonies. Cdt a helicopter crash their own success.

CSgts Pani Cochrane, Noah medical evacuation, Rendo-Castro, Tom Fahy and Our year opened with section attacks and a I had the incredible chance a strong sense of to attempt the Senior Cadet night ambush.’ achievement inherited Instructor Course (SCIC). from the achievements This tested our command of our summer camp in partnership with leadership, instructional technique, Sevenoaks School. Learning complex skills adaptability, teamwork and personal such as platoon-level attacks, tactics in administration, with all four cadets passing built-up areas (TIBUA), vehicle checkpoints the exam and being promoted to the and casualty evacuation, provided us with rank of Colour Sergeant. Additionally, Cdt the basis for an even more exciting year CSgt Cochrane and I passed with a Highly full of new challenges. A highlight for many Commended grade, qualifying us for the was fighting our way through a Napoleonic very competitive Master Cadet course. fortress on the south coast.

We will be undertaking this prestigious programme in August following the 2025 The fifths began the year with Ex KINGS Summer Camp.

SABRE in October, aiming to achieve higher level fieldcraft qualifications through three Cdt Sgt Daria Frolova also took advantage days of tactical scenarios including a complex of external army courses, completing a night ambush. The Remove and 6b cadets weeklong residential programme to obtain followed their lead on Ex KINGS REVENGE, her CyberFirst Advanced Qualification. a three-day exercise that saw 6bs pass their The highest cyber and communications Junior Cadets Instructor Course (JCIC) assessing their ability to lead and instruct younger cadets. March saw our most ambitious exercise yet, with the

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‘With a combination of courage and support I have grown in ways I could never have imagined.’

qualification in the Army Cadets, this course covers digital forensics, encryption, network security, ethical hacking and opensource intelligence gathering. Communications & Information Systems is a new syllabus subject for our Contingent and many Remove cadets have taken extension classes in addition to their regular CCF schedules to earn their cadet radio user qualification.

The Contingent has also had the honour to lead the Ringing of the Bell Ceremony once a month in the Cathedral – the first cadet organisation to be invited to take on these duties. Held in the Cathedral’s Warriors’ Chapel, the ceremony is conducted by our affiliated regiment, the Princess of Wales’ Royal Regiment (PWRR), to commemorate those of the regiment and its antecedents who have died in conflict. Following up our own Remembrance Service earlier in the year, cadets were also invited to the Cathedral’s VE Day service. Cdt CSgt Cochrane carried the symbolic lamp of peace during the service, Cdt CSgt Robertson read the prayers and CdtCSgt Rendo-Castro bore our CCF banner alongside representatives of the British Legion and other uniformed organisations.

In the CCF article I wrote last year for The Cantuarian, I said that CCF is not for everyone, although I wish it could be. However, with only a few more terms of experience, I can confidently attest that there is a place for everyone in this organisation. Each adult instructor at King’s represents and inspires something different within the cadets, reminding us all that leadership comes in many forms. Their encouragement has created a culture of personal responsibility and leadership which has trickled down and created an inclusive community that I have never experienced anywhere else.

For a long time, I thought being a ‘leader’ was an ambiguous and elusive quality that had to be bestowed upon you. My time in the CCF has taught me that it is something you must be brave enough to step into. I have come a long way from the Remove cadet who panicked during my first weapon-handling test, but with a combination of courage and support I have grown in ways I could never have imagined. The CCF is an activity that has no equal: it offers opportunities and experiences that last a lifetime.

Here’s to another year of ‘Type 2 fun’! 52

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e c n a

Drama & D

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e c an

Dreview

by Theo Pickard (6b, CY)

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‘Excitingly, the programme has seen a steady increase in the number of male dancers participating in classes and performances.’

T

his has been another outstanding year for dance at King’s, and audience members, because it shifts the social barriers present where it has shone as a key part of the Co-Curricular for many young male dancers to engage in a creative, social, and programme. During the Autumn Term, although the play was technical activity that challenges and stretches their physical and no formal dance showcase, dance played a part in our Senior Play, expressive capabilities to create a stronger individual and perhaps inspire others to do the same. Outside of King’s, Clue. During a comedic section, Mrs White and many members of our dance excellence group Wadsworth emerged from the wings in a tango, ‘With the help of Mrs have engaged in exciting opportunities. Many take showcasing a well-rehearsed and intense, but technique and performance classes to strengthen seemingly improvised, ballroom performance.

Outram, the truly Then Colonel Mustard flailed around with a perfect excellent set of dancers in and improve. For example, I am a member of a youth dance company called Cygnet School with mix of incompetence yet trained smoothness, all year groups continues the internationally renowned dance company, New all to Miss Scarlett’s disapproval. At the same to reach new heights in Adventures. New Adventures is led by Matthew time, Dance Excellence was continuing its bodyconditioning and technique sessions during the the development of their Bourne. Monthly sessions and a summer residency are held at varying theatres throughout the UK, Wednesday activity slots. Throughout this year the skills.’ with the main theatre being the Marlowe Theatre in focus has been on building core and overall body Canterbury. It was at the Marlowe that the Cygnet strength. This has facilitated the ever-improving technique and quality of dance from the members of the Excellence School performed a curtain raiser in May, before the celebrated programme. With the help of Mrs Outram, the truly excellent set contemporary masterpiece of Swan Lake, to a sold-out audience of dancers in all year groups continues to reach new heights in of two thousand people. It was wonderful to dance with the same the development of their skills. Furthermore, the Dance Scholars makeup and hair design as the professional Swan Lake performers. continue to receive their one-to-one talent development once a The Cygnet Company’s curtain raiser received excellent feedback week with Mrs Outram. Excitingly, the programme has seen a steady regarding the quality of performance, despite our youth. Following increase in the number of male dancers participating in classes and the half term holiday of the Lent Term, the spotlight of dance shifted performances. This is incredibly important, both for the participants to the consistently outstanding King’s Week performance of KiDaCo CANTUARIAN | 2025

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(King’s Dance Company). This is a well-renowned King’s Week event that seems to outdo itself every year. Each piece is created by Mrs Outram, with collective cooperation by the excellence programme, dance scholars and members of dance excellence, and by members of the school who have a passion to share their ideas. This combined effort allows for the fostering of an ever-widening collection of dance styles and new ideas, which helps to keep the performances each year fresh. This freedom to create and use the dance talent present in King’s allows us to celebrate passion and culture, and ignites a love for choreography and directorial skills. Overall, this has been a wonderful year for the dance programme at The King’s School. From comedic ballroom to technical intensives, there is a place for anyone who has a passion for dance, no matter their preferred style.

We are truly fortunate to have such an extensive ability to engage with dance at this school and it is absolutely recommended to anyone who enjoys creativity and physical activity. The benefits of dance and the friendly, everexpanding community created by dance at King’s cannot be understated and should be enjoyed by all. 58

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‘We are truly fortunate to have such an extensive ability to engage with dance at this school.’

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L

The

D

ast

ance

by Miles Packard (6a, MR)

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chools don’t have principal dancers, but if they did, at King’s the title might go to Miles Packard (6a, MR), who has danced at King’s for five years. Ahead of his last dance on Wednesday 2 July 2025, we asked him to reflect on his dancing years and what it means to dance the last dance.

It was King’s Week 2021, and I was preparing for my first performance at King’s. Despite Covid-19 making it so we only performed to one year group at a time (and no parents), I still felt incredibly nervous about being thrust onto the stage to perform a daring contemporary piece, choreographed by the marvellous Mrs Outram, with two other dance scholars. This fear was not helped by my questionable costume, dark smoky eye makeup and hair tied in a ponytail. Yet as the violin concerto began playing and the lights hid the audience from view, my fear was overcome by the sheer exhilaration of spinning, leaping and flowing across the stage, which was met with thunderous applause, as memory serves, and following that moment my nerves melted away and I have rejoiced at the opportunity to perform at the Malthouse every year ever since. However, it would be wrong to say I have never made a nearly grievous mistake, which has let these nerves come flooding back in. I remember ‘A Night at the Musicals’ in 2022 when my triple pirouette left me teetering on the edge of the stage and nearly into the audience, and at KiDaCo in 2024 when my music was starting while I was sprinting as quietly as possible to the wings, where my partner Liza whispered as loudly as she could to make me remove my watch before entering, a mistake 60

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which could have most definitely ruined the swan impression I was going for in that dance. There have been many other such occasions when I have been backflipped over and very nearly bashed in the head or where the choreography seems to just slip from my mind and I am left to rely on my fellow dancers, but, as all performers know, this is showbiz. In other words, this is what makes performing so thrilling: although those nerves and fears seem impassable, they never are and that feeling of when the music starts and the lights come on is one which I will never forget. The memories of this feeling are cherished ones, and I reflect upon them often. One of them was in KiDaCo 2023 when I had choreographed, with much help from Mrs Outram, a seven-minute-long contemporary dance to a piece by Philip Glass. I was certain of the minimalist vision I wished to achieve, and we had spent months rehearsing, so when the first

‘As the violin concerto began playing and the lights hid the audience from view, my fear was overcome by the sheer exhilaration of spinning, leaping and flowing across the stage.’

performance came round, I was determined to show the audience exactly what I wanted them to see and imagine. I remember walking onto the stage in my grey waistcoat and flowing cream trousers with enough hairspray to fix my hair forever, when I heard ‘YEAH MILES!’ from the audience just as the lights were coming up. It was at that moment that I realised no matter how perfect or impressive I wanted the dance to be, if the audience supported me they would understand it anyway. This is what has made my time dancing at King’s so special: even if I thought a performance went poorly, the audience’s appreciation and admiration has never wavered.

It saddens me to think that I only have a very short time to experience this again but I will never forget what I have been lucky enough to experience, like performing on my birthday for three consecutive years, being part of the close community of performers who seem to permanently reside at the Malthouse (myself included) and, of course, being under the guidance of Mrs Outram since without her tireless and brilliant work there would be no King’s Dance Company at all. I hope that more generations of King’s pupils can be a part of this, and treasure the feeling that only comes when performing, just as much as I have done.

‘I realised no matter how perfect or impressive I wanted the dance to be, if the audience supported me they would understand it anyway.’

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review

by Daisy Butt (6b, LX) and Zara Brett (6b, LX)

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rama at King’s this year has been full of amazing been nominated at the National School Theatre Awards — for Best achievements, fun and entertainment! While we take you Musical, Best Ensemble, Best Student Lighting Design (by Joseph 6a), through the year, let us begin with the highlights of each and Stirling (6a), who played the role of Emmett, has been nominated term: our wonderful productions. The first of these was Clue, an for an Outstanding Contribution award. outstanding performance inspired by the board game Cluedo, put on by a group of talented seniors at the end of November 2024. This After a long, exciting year filled with drama, we now look forward was an invigorating ‘whodunnit’ that the audience adored — many to King’s Week, which will be putting on three plays: The Railway Children by the juniors, Much Ado About Nothing returned for multiple performances because they by the seniors, and a whole-school production found it both gripping and highly amusing. This play of Wuthering Heights. These plays have been in has even been nominated for Best Play at the 2025 ‘With a massive cast of preparation uniquely for this exciting week, and National School Theatre Awards. over 65 pupils taking we can’t wait to see how they go — a final hurrah part, everyone gave it before summer!

Shortly afterwards came Legally Blonde: The their all every step of the Musical. Whole-school musicals take place once We also introduced a new event this year: Film every two years and are always loved by all. With a way.’

House. In this exciting series of workshops, a small massive cast of over 65 pupils taking part, everyone group of students wrote and created their own gave it their all every step of the way. Rehearsals began in September, leading up to performances at the very start of short films, which were workshopped with a professional director February. Everyone worked together in high spirits to put on one of and editing team. After two terms of hard work, family and friends Miss Frances’ dream musicals — not forgetting the incredible lighting gathered in May at The Malthouse Theatre for the première of the and set design, which made it all possible. We loved working with film. This screening was accompanied by a superb live orchestra our specially made revolving set, which allowed for multiple locations made up of pupils from local Canterbury schools, King’s pupils, and within one neat space. With four outstanding performances and two teachers, who brought the film to life with music written by pupils different lead casts, we supported each other throughout and had from the International College. an absolute blast. And it doesn’t end there: Legally Blonde has also CANTUARIAN | 2025

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‘We loved working with our specially made revolving set, which allowed for multiple locations within one neat space.’

Performances were also happening inside the classroom for the exam pieces, and we had six different sets of performance weeks this year, which audiences thoroughly enjoyed. We also held an evening to showcase the talents of the Fifth and 6a drama classes, where they presented the amazing monologues that they had been working on for their practical examinations. This evening gave parents and pupils the chance to watch their friends and loved ones perform, demonstrating their hard work and impressive acting abilities.

Academic Drama continues to thrive, and we were thrilled to receive the incredible news that Imogen Melrose (OKS 2024) achieved the highest mark in the world for Cambridge A’ Level Drama — a moment of immense pride for us all. This year also brought many incredible trips and excursions, creating countless memories and expanding our knowledge of theatre and its many forms. One particularly unforgettable experience was our adventure to New York, where we saw dazzling Broadway shows and visited some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. In October 2024, the Drama Department flew to the USA for what turned out to be one of the most memorable trips imaginable. Despite staying just four days, we packed in an array of activities, including seeing The Notebook and The Great Gatsby musicals on Broadway — even learning a number from Gatsby taught by a cast member: a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! We also toured the city, visited Grand Central Station, ascended the Empire 64

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‘This evening gave parents and pupils the chance to watch their friends and loved ones perform.’

‘Imogen Melrose (OKS 2024) achieved the highest mark in the world for Cambridge A’ Level Drama — a moment of immense pride for us all.’

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State Building, and took a ferry to see the Statue of Liberty. It was an incredible trip, and those who were able to attend are all very grateful.

Throughout the year, we also enjoyed many more local trips to see a variety of productions. These included a Sixth Form trip to a cinema-screening of Prima Facie — a heart-breaking yet educational play about a defence lawyer; a 6b and Remove trip to see Our Country’s Good — depicting the lives of British convicts sent to Australia; and a Remove trip to see George Orwell’s Animal Farm, a fascinating exploration of rebellion. Students also attended School of Rock at The Gulbenkian, where Miss Frances (our Director of Drama) performed and Joseph (6a) designed the lighting. A small group also saw & Juliet at the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury — an eclectic jukebox musical reimagining Romeo and Juliet, which delighted us all with its upbeat characters and colourful costumes.

Most recently, there was a 6b trip to London to see Small Island — one of our set texts for the A’ Level written exam. Since the play is no longer on stage, we viewed it at the National Theatre Studios 66

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Archive, where we also explored the resources used in its creation. We were also lucky enough to enjoy a backstage tour of the National Theatre ‘We’ve been itself, offering a glimpse incredibly into the behind-thefortunate to scenes work that brings experience so productions to life.

many trips and to witness such amazing theatre alongside our friends.’

In the evening, we attended Just for One Day: The Live Aid Musical — an uplifting show telling the story of Bob Geldof and the 1985 Live Aid concert. This moving production combined powerful retellings of the Ethiopian famine with fantastic singing, dancing and humour — all using songs actually performed at the concert.

Overall, we’ve been incredibly fortunate to experience so many trips and to witness such amazing theatre alongside our friends and peers.

It has been a truly unforgettable year for Drama at King’s! 

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inal F ow

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Stirling Hampton (6a, LN) has played most of the male lead roles at King’s in recent years, so we asked Director of Drama, Miss Rebekah Frances, to interview a theatrical legend.

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ou’ve played some amazing roles at school — Romeo, Emmett, Jesus, and now Heathcliff. Which one did you find the most challenging, and why?

Vocally challenging? Jesus. The role required very high phrases belted loudly in a way that I wasn’t as confident with at the time.

This was also my first major role and so I hadn’t had the experience to learn from and to better know my own voice and its limits.

Acting-wise would be Heathcliff: the depth of his character and motivation is immense. He is also the furthest removed from my own personality and age, which puts him apart from roles such as the teenage Romeo.

What’s been one of your favourite memories from performing in school productions?

Seeing the set put together for Jesus Christ Superstar. The steel framework cross and the multicoloured flooring were spectacular.

Each of those characters is really different: how do you get into the mindset of each role?

I’ve always been one to prepare a lot for each role. I watch different movie versions of each production and take bits of each character that I like or think might fit my interpretation. It’s a lot of stealing other people’s work, really.

What have you learned from acting in school shows that’s helped you grow as a person?

Never undervalue a person. From any member of the cast to the backstage crew, the secret work people put in when they’re not seen and celebrated is hugely important.

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Performing takes a lot of time and energy. How have you managed to balance rehearsals, schoolwork, and music?

Well, a lot of my schoolwork is also to do with acting and performing, since I took both Music and Drama A’ Levels. Timetabling and keeping a schedule have always been necessary for me, so as to not double-book any of my time.

Do you think your music has helped your acting (or the other way around)? How do the two fit together for you?

Yes, and it goes both ways. Being first a musician, then an actor, my sense of rhythm, metre, tone and phrasing affected my acting.

Equally, when I came back to do more music, the emotion and character behind different pieces was something I could focus on more easily.

You’ve gone from playing Emmett in Legally Blonde to Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar — how do you adjust between such different characters?

It’s a long process. Each show takes months of rehearsals and I’ve never fully worked out a character on the first day. It’s a lot of experimenting with different intentions and, as I said before,

‘I watch different movie versions of each production and take bits of each character that I like or think might fit my interpretation.’

watching how other people perform the character really helps to develop an idea on what I think is wrong or right for my interpretation.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to get involved in school shows but feels a bit nervous?

Don’t hesitate to join. I only took acting and drama seriously when I became a Fifth, and I wish I had done it sooner. I’m great friends with every cast. Every group is a very friendly and supportive set of individuals.

Has being part of school productions helped you decide what you might want to do in the future?

No doubt it has. I’ve decided I want to be an actor, and I wouldn’t have thought that if I didn’t do school productions.

Have there been any teachers, directors or classmates who’ve really supported or inspired you along the way?

While Mr Musgrave and Mr Skillern have definitely helped me academically and also in preparation for

drama school, and I’m very grateful for their help, it’s Ms Frances who has supported me from my very first show. She’s given me the roles and taught me how to perform each and every one. I owe my acting to her.

Heathcliff is quite a dramatic role. What have you enjoyed most about playing him?

There’s something quite cathartic about simply screaming and shouting on stage.

Heathcliff certainly does a lot of that.

‘From any member of the cast to the backstage crew, the secret work people put in when they’re not seen and celebrated is hugely important.’

Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the future? And how have school productions helped shape those dreams?

Next year, I’m going to ArtsEd, a drama school in London where I’ll do a foundation acting course. It’s through school productions that I’ll have the experience to both know what I want and how to perform. In each school show I learn a little more about what I really want from my acting.

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Bright Ambition

At the 2025 National School Theatre Awards (NSTAs), held on Monday 23 June at the Gillian Lynne Theatre in London, Joseph Dingle (6a, MT) was awarded Best Set, Lighting or Sound Design for Legally Blonde. We asked Director of Drama, Miss Rebekah Frances, to interview Joe.

F

irst of all, congratulations on winning the National School Theatre Award for Best Lighting Design! How did it feel when you found out you’d won?

I felt absolutely shocked. It was an incredible surprise, especially with the numbers of people nominated, and their level of talent.

‘I couldn’t stop looking up at the fixtures and wondering how the designers used them to help tell the story unfold on stage.’

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in brighter and more colourful lighting for Malibu and then using warmer halogen lights creating the traditional and historic feel of Harvard. Moreover, Pinks! There wouldn’t be Legally Blonde without a pinkflooded stage. I was careful in my selection of differing hues to allow for depth and locational changes.

What first sparked your interest in lighting design, and how did that interest develop How do you approach lighting a scene — during your time at school? do you start with the mood, the story, or I remember watching our local pantomime something else entirely? when I was younger and being completely When lighting a scene for a musical I mesmerized, not just by consider mood and the the show itself, but by feelings of the characters ‘When lighting a the technical elements. I and their own story arcs. couldn’t stop looking up at scene for a musical I For example, during the the fixtures and wondering reprise of Elle walking consider mood and how the designers used back to the courtroom in the feelings of the them to help tell the story her full pink identity, we unfold on stage. That characters and their had pinks growing in all fascination stuck with me, directions as the ‘world own story arcs.’ and when I joined the of Harvard’ became school in Year 10 and got pinker while Elle becomes involved with the backstage crew for drama more contagious and people follow her productions, I was instantly hooked. with promoting their own self-identities, showing the pink growing from her as the Legally Blonde was a huge production — catalyst for better change. what were some of the biggest creative or technical challenges you faced when Winning a national award is no small feat. designing the lighting for the show?

What advice would you give to younger Legally Blonde was a really fun production pupils who might be interested in theatre to light but it wasn’t without its challenges. tech or lighting design?

The set was quite complicated, affecting I’d say go for it! Getting involved backstage lighting angles and coverage, but Paul is such a fantastic way to be part of a Birks (lighting associate) and I found some production, especially if you’d rather stay cunning workarounds. And with the two out of the spotlight. There are so many worlds of Harvard and Malibu it was very different roles to explore, from sound and important to show the locational contrast. set to lighting, costume, props, and stage This was helped with the key differences management. There really is something

for everyone. The satisfaction of seeing it all come together after days of tech rehearsals and programming is like nothing else in theatre. And just as special are the people you meet along the way: the friendships you build and the memories you ‘I’m really looking make are some of the best.

It’s a brilliant way to connect forward to the with others and feel part of opportunities RADA will something bigger at school.

give me to improve my skills and give me the building blocks to turn this into a successful career pathway.’

You’re heading to RADA next year — what are you most looking forward to about studying there, and what do you hope to achieve during your time at drama school?

I’m really looking forward to the opportunities RADA will give me to improve my skills and give me the building blocks to turn this into a successful career pathway. I can’t wait to get stuck into life away from home in London and the opportunities of having the West End and the industry on my doorstep.

Looking back over your years here, are there any particular productions, mentors, or moments that stand out as especially formative?

Looking back at my time at King’s, it’s hard to pick a favourite production, but if I had to I’d say the musicals: Jesus Christ Superstar and Legally Blonde alongside the busy KiDaCo shows were always the best, with the most-packed audiences. The electric atmosphere was unparalleled!

Where do you see yourself in ten years’ time — what’s the dream job or project for you in the world of lighting design?

In ten years, I’d love to be working on some of the biggest shows in West-End theatre and even overseas. I also want to expand my skills into the world of concerts and large-scale touring productions. That kind of dynamic, high-energy environment really excites me. And I have to admit, being part of a mega project like Eurovision has always been a dream of mine. Maybe it’s ambitious, but a little dreaming never hurt anyone!  CANTUARIAN | 2025

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Art

Review

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by Uliana Kushkova (6b, KD)

ooking back on this eventful year in A’ Level Art, it’s clear that this subject is so much more than coursework: it’s a creative experience and journey, which we thoroughly document in our sketchbooks, that has shaped the way I think, work, and plan my future. For someone like me, who hopes to pursue a career connected to art, this year has been incredibly inspiring.

One of the biggest highlights was without doubt the Sixth Form trip to Venice in October. Walking through worldfamous galleries, exhibitions and museums, ‘With the beautiful surrounded by art history and contemporary lighting and a creativity, was unforgettable. The city itself felt range of art tools like a work of art, and seeing such a variety it’s the perfect of pieces up close certainly gave me a new perspective and ideas to develop in the future environment for projects, such as our PI (personal investigation developing ideas project).

and producing work to make us proud.’

Back in the Art Department, what makes A’ Level Art so unique is the freedom to experiment with a wide range of media and techniques. Early in the year, we explored painting, working in 3D with clay, textiles, and mixed media, which effectively helped us discover what medium suits us best for our Personal Investigation Projects, which we’ve started working on in the summer term of 6b.

Each term this year we had a theme to focus on, such as human form and portraiture for our collaborative work, which remains one of my favourite projects this year. As a class, we produced a life-size charcoal drawing based on the photograph of ourselves, inspired by the famous work by Caravaggio, the ‘Entombment of Christ.’ We’re lucky to have regular workshops and life-drawing sessions, which really push our technical skills. On top of that, we get to come to the Art Department in our free time to work independently on our project and make the most of this inspiring creative space. With the beautiful lighting and a range of art tools it’s the perfect environment for developing ideas and producing work to make us proud.

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My Art The artwork of Anthony Liu aka Beibei (6a, WL) was selected from over 23,000 entries for this year’s RA Young Artist online exhibition.

Beibei has also accepted a place to study at the Rhode Island School of Art. We asked her to say something about her extraordinary work.

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y work begins where language falters — at the edges of thought, memory, and emotion. I’m drawn to the subconscious, not in a strictly psychological sense, but as a space where feelings accumulate without clear shape or structure. Through painting, digital media and installation I try to materialise these sensations — to give form to what is often only felt. Distortion, contrast and disjointed composition are some of the tools I use to explore human experience.

For me, art is about translation, turning the internal into something physical and shareable. I often work viscerally and intuitively, allowing the emotional core of a piece to guide its construction.

For the past two years, figures central to my life — especially myself and my grandmother — have become recurring subjects in my work. Painting remains my main medium, and my recent oil series Duration focuses on how I perceive time. For a long period, I felt a deep rupture in my sense of continuity, brought on by geographical moves and shifting social relationships. I struggled to relate to the past, as if it had slipped away and lost its presence. Over time, I realised this disconnection was itself an emotional state worth exploring. In that process, I found resonance with Henri Bergson’s philosophy — particularly his idea that time isn’t a series of separate, measurable units, but a flowing, continuous subjective experience. The past isn’t While painting is my foundation, my practice extends into digital and timebehind us; it’s layered within the present, shaping how we based media as well. During a course with a professor from Carnegie Mellon, see and feel the now. That idea gave me I began working in stop-motion animation, combining a language for what I was experiencing hand-drawn images, clay puppets, photography, sound, ‘The past isn’t behind and a conceptual structure for the series. and editing. The resulting work, Feel, The Realness, was us; it’s layered within Technically, I drew from artists like Justin a meditation on the unknown — a concept I see as both the present, shaping Mortimer, whose abstraction of space magnetic and dangerous. We’re drawn to what we don’t how we see and feel the helped me rethink depth and distance; understand, but too much abstraction can push us toward Andy Curlowe, who merges architectural nihilism. The animation reflects that tension: between now. That idea gave me planes in imaginative ways; and Phil belief and skepticism, presence and doubt, knowing and a language for what I Hale, whose dynamic figures carry a feeling. was experiencing and a psychological intensity I admire. In the conceptual structure for studio, I worked through experiments Another project, The Death of a Cicada, marked a shift — spraying white spirit onto thick oil toward installation and textile-based work. In the project, the series.’ paint to create textures like melted wax, I examine the academic meritocracy embedded in many collaging primary photographs and repainting them into a Asian education systems — structures that push children to achieve without unified composition. These methods allowed me to break ever preparing them for the moral and social complexities of the real world. I down and rebuild form, which felt very aligned with the saw this kind of upbringing as a form of emotional sheltering, which becomes themes I was grappling with. brutal when the outside world finally makes contact. To visualise this, I created 80

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‘Each medium opens up a different way of thinking and, for me, working across disciplines isn’t a stylistic choice but a conceptual necessity.’ an installation shaped like a cicada shell, combining anatomical studies of both human and insect forms. I sewed a textured duvet as the main surface, inviting the viewer into a bodily encounter with the work. The cicada metaphor speaks to the fragility of purpose — how, once fulfilled, individuals can be even more bewildered.

Beyond these main works, I’ve continued experimenting with biro, ceramics and a range of printmaking techniques — from collagraph and monoprinting to gel printing and heat press. Each medium opens up a different way of thinking and, for me, working across disciplines isn’t a stylistic choice but a conceptual necessity. The materials shape the message. At the heart of everything I make is a desire to understand what it means to feel, to remember, to shift and change over time. I’m not looking for resolution. I’m looking for forms honest enough to hold contradiction — spaces where selfhood, memory, and reality remain in motion.

‘Another project, The Death of a Cicada, marked a shift toward installation and textile-based work.’

As I take the next step in my artistic journey at the Rhode Island School of Design, I look forward to immersing myself in new environments that challenge and expand my creative boundaries. I hope to continue investigating the personal and emotional narratives that shape my life, translating them into visual forms that engage and provoke thought. My ambition is to create work that not only speaks honestly from my own experience, but also invites viewers into a shared space of reflection, recognition, and dialogue. CANTUARIAN | 2025

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Young Enterprise

Xintang Nong (6b, MR) was a finalist at the National Young Enterprise Competition and she came third out of thousands in the Telos Leadership Essay Competition, for which she was awarded a certificate and £250. Here is her essay: Leadership: A Journey of Stepping Back

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eadership’ — this word has been properly even when something goes wrong. with me since I was little, trailing Since it was all a pupil-run project, I have behind me like a shadow. I first studied business knowledge, consulted bumped into it when I was picked as class relevant legal materials, tried to establish monitor in primary school, and later when the basic framework of our team’s smooth I became the Student Council President. functioning, as well as working out a meeting Back then, I thought leadership was all about agenda and documentation system that standing up on stage, keeping things in order, suits our needs. helping the teachers — in short, doing stuff for people, not with them. It wasn’t until I We faced many kinds of scenarios — product transferred to another school and lost those ideas getting rejected again and again, safety fancy titles that it hit me: rules limiting our capacity, ‘To quit meant giving real leadership isn’t about and the team feeling stuck the badges you wear; it’s in a state of low morale. up everything back to about the mark you leave There were nights when zero, and to persevere behind.

I looked at the screen full meant embracing of messages and meeting more unknowns and A significant part of my minutes filled with setbacks changes in mindset came and wondered in my heart, headaches.’ from being the Company ‘This may still not work.’ But Secretary in the Young Enterprise project. to quit meant giving up everything back to At first, I thought it would be simply a note- zero, and to persevere meant embracing taking and boxes-ticking job. But I was more unknowns and headaches. So, I stayed wrong — this experience enabled me to up late at night on Google to learn the gain an unexpected viewpoint and a deeper relevant theories, optimise the structure of understanding of the complexities and the company, refine the product idea, and multiple dimensions of leadership, which I’d engage in small online meetings one after never noticed before. another to discuss the issue. Eventually, the problems were broken down one by one — In the process of company operations, we our product passed security approval, the encountered various fresh experiences — supply chain was sorted, sales recovered, setting up a company, figuring out innovative and we turned a profit. Looking back, products, and tackling hurdles. Those early while those numbers or achievements are meetings were like a wake-up call about important, what this journey really taught how tricky teamwork can be. I began to me is the other side of leadership: not only realise the hidden pillars behind leadership: in major decisions, but also in the ability to building systems, sustaining positivity, and get through the tough times together and making sure things are communicated keep going until things work out.

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More importantly, I simultaneously learnt that true leadership is about joining hearts and minds with support, not with power.

In other words, when the team have disagreements, the best solutions often don’t come from one person’s choice; they pop up naturally after we have actually listened to each other. Furthermore, the most effective decisions would appear when we put aside our own agendas and focus on what we were all aiming for. From our team members, I’ve realised that appreciating others’ suggestions often inspires the most creative and sustainable solutions. Take our product pricing discussion — our best sales strategy, bundling a set together to sell and handing out leaflets, came from mixing financial analysis with team members’ feedback.

The more I reflect, the more I realise that the best leadership is not about commanding everything but about trusting people and sharing out the load. When we stop obsessing about control, it is more likely that others will step up and take on the responsibilities.

I found this to be evident during our preparations for a trade fair in Estonia.

As Company Secretary, I was more like an observer — I noticed that what makes a team work efficiently is never only the talent or instruction of one person, but rather the spontaneous recognition of the common goal by all. Some shared ideas for improvement, some took the initiative to handle extra tasks, and some contributed

their expertise beyond their usual duties.

No one told them to — this motivation just came from the mutual trust we had and the vision we were sharing. The role of leaders is not to do everything themselves but to build an environment in which people are self-driven and self-growing. That’s what I discovered from that moment: leadership isn’t always about being the loud one at the front; sometimes, it’s building a solid ship, so everyone feels safe to steer and explore.

All these experiences totally refreshed my understanding of leadership. It’s not always the shiny decision-making moments — it is often hidden in the seemingly small things that continue to infuse order and respect into a team. The process of sorting meeting minutes, summarising discussion points and tracking task progress — these administrative jobs gave me a front-row seat to everyone’s ideas, clashes, compromises, and efforts. Over time, I realised a solid and healthy team atmosphere doesn’t come from strict rules — it grows from trust and respect between us. When people’s words are considered carefully and their thoughts get responses, everyone feels their place and value. To me, that’s the softest, truest

part of leadership: sometimes it means stepping back to leave others room, being a calming force amidst turmoil, and often it’s invisible — just building confidence and links so people want to stay, to participate, and to step up.

This has shifted how I measure leadership, too. It is no longer solely about how many decisions I’ve made — it’s about how many people were enabled to think independently and step forward on their own, because of the space and support I’d offered. Along this company journey, our proudest achievement wasn’t simply the money we made but the fact that every member had discovered new possibilities in themselves, uncovering skills or directions they hadn’t seen before. That’s what I recognise as successful leadership for generations to come: it’s not just about starting a business, but fostering a culture; not just quick wins, but leaving a spiritual legacy of self-leadership.

In future collaborations, I will value even more the importance of recognising others’ strengths and potential. I no longer feel the urge to earn the title of ‘leader’ — instead, I’ve come to appreciate the power of quiet

‘I’ve come to appreciate the power of quiet influence, the power that inspires individuals rather than controls them, that lifts people up instead of taking them over.’ influence, the power that inspires individuals rather than controls them, that lifts people up instead of taking over. Moreover, if I could leave only one thing behind as a leader, it would be a sea of boats sailing beyond my vision rather than a ship that needs me at the helm. Overall, I truly believe the kind of leadership that lasts and has impact is centred on respect and inclusiveness, creating space for others to thrive. Especially when their ways differ from your own, the real power of leadership is found in the ability to empower them, offering them support and the driving them to flourish on their own. CANTUARIAN | 2025

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Bea Perry (6b, WL) looks back on her Extended Qualification Project (EPQ)

his year, I wrote an EPQ dissertation answering the question I then attempted to explain these changes in his rhetoric by looking at ‘Was the end of the Korean War the main reason for the changes enacted in America’s government and foreign policy by the change in anti-communist propaganda in the Republican election Eisenhower Administration, Eisenhower’s own approach to the use campaigns of 1952 and 1956?’ I studied the Cold War for GCSE and of military force, the end of the Korean War and the consequences found the relations between Russia and America in the past explained of the Red Scare. I was surprised by the machinery of government America’s current position in foreign policy today. I knew that I wanted that was created in this period to disseminate propaganda by the to explore ideas of propaganda because I find it American government, such as the USIA and the fascinating: propaganda is often explored in relation Jackson committee. I enjoyed learning more about ‘Propaganda is often to fascist regimes such as under Stalin in the USSR or Eisenhower’s personal virtues and philosophies, explored in relation to under Hitler in Nazi Germany, but less often in more including his ironic aversion to the use of military fascist regimes such democratic countries. I believe that propaganda force, despite his status and experience as a General is one of the most salient issues of today since all in the American Army. I examined statistics that as under Stalin in the information is gained through the transmission of USSR or under Hitler in taught me how the Korean War led to a massive information, whether that be through education or in the number of military personnel (which was Nazi Germany, but less spike elsewhere, and the means of gaining knowledge are sustained until the end of the Cold War), the defence not often examined as deeply as they should be. I often in more democratic budget, and an increase in Europe’s militarisation. narrowed down the two broad topics of the Cold I concluded that the end of the Korean War was countries.’

War and propaganda to include only one form of indeed the reason for the changes in Eisenhower’s propaganda – Eisenhower’s speeches – and in a limited period of rhetoric. I loved writing this project. I realised that what I was taught the two Republican election campaigns of 1952 and 1956. I trawled at GCSE was only scratching the surface, and even as I was researching through pages and pages of online transcripts of Eisenhower’s a period of only four years, I discovered that there is always more to speeches, and cross-referenced those of 1952 with those of 1956, know. I found myself struggling to fit everything into a limit of 12,000 finding changes in his approach to military confrontation, the use of words and debating for days about taking out single paragraphs that diplomacy, cooperation between free states, and how the benefits of I found fascinating. This project inspired me to think more deeply capitalism were presented. about the assumptions that I make about the information I digest and to examine more carefully its validity and intention.

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antasy Novella Bee Billett (6b, MT) looks back on her Extended Qualification Project (EPQ)

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or My EPQ I decided to write a novella in the surrealist a forest called Apeiron (in a universe called Andnorswa), where she tradition. It is set in a skyscraper in which each floor is a has an uneventful and monotonous life until one day she is sucked different universe. I have always been fascinated by the dream-like into a magic waterfall. After this discovery, her life is transformed: style of surrealism: to me it is creativity at its rawest – a combination she meets a mysterious stranger, voyages across multiple universes, of the writer’s interests and desires. As a definition, which are floors in the ‘the skyscraper’ and meets surrealism is ‘an artistic attempt to bridge together historical figures while she journeys to ‘My main character lives renowned reality and imagination’ and it contains the sort of ‘The Land of the Aristocrats’. There she must oust things that could never really happen. Surrealist in a forest called Apeiron a man called Judas, which she succeeds in doing. writers want to challenge imposed values in a However, this is far from the end of the story. (in a universe called search for freedom. So, it isn’t surprising that Andnorswa), where she Although her life seems to go back to normal after surrealism first emerged as a form of resistance to whirlwind of adventures, she decides to embark has an uneventful and this the overwhelmingly political subject matter of art once again across the universes to visit her friends after WW1 and then later in the 60s and 70s when monotonous life until one who have taken over Judas’ universe. In this new hippies and young people wanted to resist post-war day she is sucked into a adventure she faces treachery and the occult. conformity.

Don’t worry, though: it has a happy ending! Within magic waterfall.’ the action I explore hierarchies, real and perceived Now we live in a time of isolation in a tech-filled freedom and themes such as fantasy and journeys. world where a traditional sense of community is dwindling; instead, I found a lot of themes from my own life had crept into the novella we find connection through the world of the imagination, which in different forms through books I’d read at home, the people I’d is why surrealism is currently relevant. My main character lives in learned about in history, and a desire for pure escapism. In writing this project I have discovered new writers, improved my own writing and been encouraged to delve more deeply into the surrealist genre which I’d known little about.

As I learned more about surrealism, I became inspired by many surrealist novels, my favourite being Kafka on the Shore by Haruki Murakami. I love the way his characters travel across different universes, something I use in my own work. Just as he blurs the lines between different universes, he also blurs what is dream and what is reality, which is very surrealist. I found this aspect of his work extremely compelling. Although I managed to write 23,000 words, I encountered many problems, ‘I found a lot of themes such as trying to keep going and from my own life had not getting bored when I had to crept into the novella in constantly re-read the same things to edit and refine. I also needed to different forms through ensure I had a constant creative flow, books I’d read at home, especially when it came to making the people I’d learned my characters engaging and unique. about in history.’

When I overcame these difficulties, I learned the importance of editing and how you need multiple drafts to get your writing into a good state. Finally, I learnt some technical skills such as how to reference and create AI images for the illustrations.

There is also a lot of action in my story. If I was rewriting it, I would remove some of the action or perhaps flesh it out more. I would also focus more on the actual characters and their relationships. The plot line can be too hectic at times. But since I have now conjured up the galaxy of ‘The Skyscraper’, I could base future stories with different characters in this setting. So perhaps I will revisit it over the summer holidays with a view to one day becoming a published author. CANTUARIAN | 2025

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he Thin Ideal

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Flavia Pellumbi (6b, CY) looks back on her Extended Qualification Project (EPQ)

did an EPQ this year with the title ‘Has the thin ideal been a Due to the limited time and length of the project, there were areas I contributing factor to weight gain in adult females in the UK would have liked to further explore, like eating disorder psychology since 1990?’ I chose this title because I thought it and the limitations of some data measures I used, would be interesting to explore the paradoxical such as BMI. This project also taught me how I ‘I thought it would be relationship between hyper-unrealistic beauty work most effectively and how to, in future, better standards and real health. It also allowed me to manage my time and structure my work plan. I interesting to explore research further the interface between science found I worked best in longer sessions because they the paradoxical and society, which I hope to understand more allowed me to immerse myself in my project and so relationship between about in future. The process of writing an EPQ was my writing ‘flowed’ more. rewarding and taught me skills like how to write a hyper-unrealistic beauty literature review, how to organise my ideas, how to I started my EPQ about three weeks later than the standards and real research and use academic information stores, and official start of the process, so at the beginning I health.’ how to present. As someone who studies Science was behind some of the other pupils. I am glad and Maths, this gave me the opportunity to work I wasn’t put off by this, since at times I did find it on being able to express myself clearly and allowed me the chance daunting to catch up. In fact, I think starting late motivated me to be to improve my writing and communication skills, whilst pursuing an more organised and helped me to minimise procrastination at the interesting topic. beginning, because the initial process of putting the first words onto a blank page really is the hardest part.

Through my research, I was able to explore a range of viewpoints, opinions and facts to inform my conclusion. I found that the thin I would recommend doing an EPQ on a topic of personal interest ideal did actually contribute to weight gain, especially for females. I because it not only allows you to improve your academic skills but used an evaluation framework to help justify my conclusion, proving also enables the expansion of knowledge. The process teaches really the pertinence of the thin ideal, the links between the thin ideal and useful transferable skills that can benefit all pupils, regardless of the weight gain and the ultimate causes of weight gain. I recorded the A’ Level subjects they take. evolution of these factors since 1990 and how modern societal views of both women and weight influence body trends.

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afety on the Streets Lily Scott (6b, JR) looks back on her Extended Qualification Project (EPQ)

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y EPQ was inspired by personal and universal experience victims. Finally, technology has introduced new risks through tracking — a lifetime of walking the streets of the and cyber relationships, but also new safety apps like UK as a woman with a constant undercurrent of Walk Safe to help women feel safer on the streets.

‘Every woman I knew fear. Every woman I knew could relate to this fear, and instead of being seen as alarming, it was often could relate to this fear, After months of research, analysis, and reflection, normalised or brushed off as just part of life. This and instead of being my project led me to a sobering conclusion: it is not shared, collective anxiety compelled me to learn safer to be a woman on the streets of the UK today seen as alarming, it more about the issue and therefore I knew I wanted than it was in the 1970s. Although there have been was often normalised advancements in technology and greater public to research women’s safety in the UK. However, the or brushed off as just discourse around gender-based violence, many of the specific direction of my project became clear after watching a documentary that focused on women’s same threats persist, only in different forms. part of life.’ experiences in the 1970s, a decade marked by highprofile cases of violence against women, such as Researching and writing an academic-style the Yorkshire Ripper murders, and the rise of feminist activism in dissertation has provided me with valuable, transferable skills, one response. of the main reasons I strongly recommend undertaking an EPQ. This project has deepened my passion for the issue. From here I can go The documentary shed light on what felt like a pivotal moment in the on to explore more about what needs to change, and in my study of history of women’s safety. This brought me to my finalised question: Law at university my exploration will continue. ‘Can it be claimed that women are safer on the streets of the UK today than they were in the 1970s?’ To answer this question, I structured my research into three main areas: (1) Crime rates and the nature of crimes committed against women; (2) Policing and justice; (3) Social movements and government initiatives; and (4) Technology and built environment. This structure allowed me to evaluate both statistical data and social attitudes from multiple angles, comparing the 1970s with the present day.

I researched using a multi-disciplinary approach and a wide range of sources. I examined crime data from the Office for National Statistics, historical police records, and contemporary evaluations of policing methods. I also analysed government documents on public safety investments, publications from the 1970s, and academic journals on gender and violence. To connect statistics with real experiences, I listened to podcasts, watched documentaries, and read first-hand accounts of street harassment ‘After months of research, and violence from both past and present.

analysis, and reflection, my project led me to a sobering conclusion: it is not safer to be a woman on the streets of the UK today than it was in the 1970s.’

My research showed that over the last five decades the nature of crimes in the UK has changed, with increases in crimes like drinkspiking and a decline in homicides.

While legislation such as the 2003 Sexual Offences Act and improved policing accountability has developed, women’s willingness to report crimes and conviction rates have sharply fallen: 5 in 6 women who are raped don’t report it, and conviction rates dropped from 33% in the 1970s to 5% today.

Despite extensive government investment, efforts have largely been ineffective. The 1970s saw strong feminist activism that helped spark change, a legacy continued by today’s charities supporting female CANTUARIAN | 2025

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he First Balkan War Luca Sand (6b, CY) looks back on his Extended Qualification Project (EPQ)

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he topic I chose for my Extended Project was the First Balkan War, which occurred in 1912, and more specifically how the Great Powers were involved in the way it started. The reason I chose this event comes partly from my own Balkan heritage and because Balkan history is so under-represented in European History, which tends to focus on a few Western European areas, despite the crucial role of the Balkans as the ‘powder keg of Europe’ in so many conflicts over the centuries. The First Balkan War, which took place from October 1912 to May 1913 between the invading Balkan League (Serbia, Greece, ‘The reason I chose this Bulgaria, and Montenegro) and event comes partly from the defending Ottoman Empire, is vitally important in my view. my own Balkan heritage The region had been ruled by the and because Balkan Ottoman Empire since the 1450s, history is so under- and as the Ottoman presence represented in European shrank over the course of the 19th and early 20th Centuries, new History.’ questions emerged as to what would become of those territories and their inhabitants. This is where the role of the Great Powers comes in – Britain, Austria and Russia, mainly. Each sought, for their own motivations, to encroach upon Ottoman territory. Time and again the Great Powers exerted their influence on the infant nations of the Balkans, encouraging expansionism, deciding the organisation of land, and contributing to the decline of the Ottoman Empire.

The key event that sowed the seeds of the First Balkans War decades before it occurred was the Congress of Berlin in 1878. Russia had just fought a successful war against the Ottomans, with substantial help from the Balkan peoples themselves. It had created its own treaty with the Ottomans, which would grant Russia unquestioned supremacy in the Balkan region, and particularly a strategic advantage over its long-time rival, Austria. To Britain and Austria, among others, this was unacceptable, and thus a congress was convened, with deputies from every major power gathering in Berlin in 1878 to discuss how to divide the spoils of the war in a way that would preserve the delicate balance of power in Europe. It was not easy. In fact, the First World War nearly broke out then and there, 36 years before 1914. Through much negotiation, a peaceful settlement was reached, though how peaceful exactly was a central argument in my dissertation. The agreement returned significant territories to the Ottomans even though they had lost the war, chief among them the economically and strategically important region of Macedonia.

It may have preserved the peace between the Great Powers (until 1914) but it doomed the Balkan peoples to suffer more conflict. The situation there had changed drastically from 1876-78, when the rampaging Turkish armies had devastated the land and slaughtered indiscriminately. The Balkan peoples could and would not return to being mere subjects of the Turks and they now not only demanded independence, but expansion, and to expel the Ottomans from Europe completely. The Congress of Berlin is just one of the ways in which I argued that the Great Powers caused the First Balkan War. This is a part of history that is scarcely taught and is overshadowed by the imminent First World War, so I hope that I have been able to shed some light on this dark era.

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vid’s Heroides Nivee Mitra (6b, MR) looks back on her Extended Qualification Project (EPQ)

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y EPQ, entitled ‘Can Ovid’s Heroides be considered an Of course, it is important to remember that Ovid did choose to give example of feminist literature?’, stemmed from a personal women in literature a voice, but the nature of the Heroides themselves interest in classical literature and the way it presents contradicts this. The settings that Ovid places the voices. I chose to focus on ancient female voices after women in create a sense of entrapment, an example ‘I chose to focus on reading an article discussing the Heroides, through of this being the bedchamber. The messages Ovid ancient female voices which I became fascinated by Ovid’s decision to tries to get across within the Heroides also try to after reading an article deny the women a sense of freedom, when he write from their perspective. The Heroides is a series of letters, written from the view of women in famous discussing the Heroides, places emphasis on their emotional, fragile state.

Ancient Greek myths, addressed to lovers who through which I became Even considering that Ovid does create distinctions abandoned them. They are striking to read, perhaps between the emotions that each of the women feel, fascinated by Ovid’s because of the way that Ovid, a famous male Roman a brief look at his other works shows the unlikeliness decision to write from poet, chooses to subvert traditional gender roles of any feminist undertones within the Heroides. For and myths. Upon first glance, I thought it obvious example, his Ars amatoria, containing instructions their perspective.’ that the Heroides was a feminist text, because to for love, tells women to conceal all their flaws. take the time to explore the female perspective seemed to be an So, through these findings, I concluded that the Heroides is not an obvious indicator. However, after carrying out further research to example of feminist literature at all. test my theory, through the reading of a variety of published journal articles and copies of the Heroides in translation, it became clear My favourite part of my EPQ was definitely the research process, that my original theory did not seem true. because although it was difficult to find a lot of information on the subject, I came across some interesting points. For example, an article A dive into the history of feminism showed me that not only was the by Maurice Cunningham explored the Heroides as a text written to view of women in classical societies inherently that of the housewife be performed rather than read. In a broader sense, working on my and child bearer, but also that every article I’d read about feminism EPQ allowed me to explore my interest in literature and the way that within the text was written well after the rise of the modern feminist interpretations are often influenced by society. Overall, this project movement, making it clear that this argument was a result of taught me a lot and gave me the foundation to continue exploring my changing societal views. interest in classical literature.

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TED Talks

Science pupils reflect on presentations they gave this year in homage to the famous TED Talks.

Scent

by Nick Lamb (6b, LN) Let’s be honest: the people who wear perfume don’t ‘wear it for self-confidence’ or whatever but instead wear it to smell good and possibly fish a couple of compliments here and there. But that’s beside the point because I’m not here to talk about psychology. I’m here to talk about perfumes. All perfumes are composed of water, ethanol and perfume oils. And depending on the concentration of perfume oils in each bottle, not only does the name of the perfume change (EDP/ EDT), but the overall scent profile and performance of the perfume change accordingly. If I add a larger proportion of perfume oils, the perfume may have a more complex tone and last longer. In my extremely appealing presentation, I talked about synthetic compounds, many of which are good tongue twisters, leading to some funny names which I cannot pronounce. My favourite compound, linalool, is a colourless synthetic oil that has a complex floral odour somewhat resembling French lavender plants. Esters of linalool are referred to as linalyl, e.g. linalyl acetate. Linalool and linalyl acetate can be mixed to create a scent profile like bergamot, but different concentrations may result in completely different smells. I decided to research perfumes because I was genuinely interested in how companies can charge half a kidney just for someone to smell good for a couple of hours. I fell victim to this once before, and I would rather go broke and know why I smell good than go broke and not know why I smell good.

A New Science is Born

by Mahboobani Tushant (6b, LN)

Nuclear power is the next step to a cleaner planet, one without the relentless emissions of greenhouse gases that drive climate change and degrade our environment. I’ll start by taking you on a journey to the discovery of nuclear physics

by Ernest Rutherford in the early 1900s when he observed how most of the atom’s structure was empty space with all the mass held in the centre, bounded together by strong forces, and it was the energy held in these forces that set up the foundation for potential nuclear power. Today, there are two ways to harness this energy, fission and fusion, with fission being much more widely used because nuclear fusion is still undergoing testing while the conditions needed for the reaction to occur are almost impossible to maintain, with temperatures needing to exceed those at the core of the sun. Fission is the splitting of a heavy nucleus into two lighter nuclei by bombarding it with neutrons. The most commonly used fission material is Uranium. Even though it contains only 0.7% of fissile material, its reliability and abundance make it a very useful fuel for fission reactors. Fission power is much more easily harnessed, with countries having multiple different types of fission reactors, the common type being the HWR (heavy-water reactor). The only current fusion reactor on the planet is the hydrogen bomb, which is equivalent to around 500 atomic bombs, showing the immense potential in nuclear fusion power, which might one day take us a long way.

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Memory

by Phin Brett-Edmunds (6b, LN) Memory underpins our very sense of self and makes up the building blocks of our identity.

In my presentation, I set out to unravel the biological underpinnings of memory with as little hand-waving and as much synaptic rigour as possible. This began by exploring the structural basis of memory: unlike a computer, which stores its memory physically, we store our memories through the changes in structure of even our individual neurones. Memory is what is called an ‘emergent property’, meaning it’s not something which is intrinsic to the neurone itself; it’s just how all the neurones work together as a whole that make memory what it is.

Drawing on the work of Nobel laureate Eric Kandel, I discussed how his studies on Aplysia revolutionised the cellular mechanics of memory. I then moved on from molecular changes to higher-order cognition and specific brain regions, such as the hippocampus, which encodes explicit memories. Generally, memory can be split into explicit or implicit; this essentially means memories that require active recall are explicit and reflex reactions like catching a ball are implicit. I also discussed the importance of emotional significance in memory, exemplified by the book Descartes’ Error in which Ramachandran illustrates how emotionally-charged memories are more durable thanks to amygdala-hippocampal interactions. I extend my gratitude to Dr Watts for helping me to set up this club. I sincerely hope it inspires students from any year to take the stage and share the science that ignites their passion.

Self-healing Polymers

by Elena Chin (6B, BY)

Imagine a world where smart materials rule the world. Yep, that’s self-healing polymers, a giant breakthrough where chemistry gives ordinary substances an almost living ability to regenerate. All matter is subject to thermal or mechanical destruction during its active lifetime, which led to the invention of self-healing polymers. Three key mechanisms define how materials can self-heal. Microcapsule-based healing happens when a material contains millions of liquid-healing-agent-filled capsules. When the capsules are ruptured due to damage, the self-healing mechanism is triggered through the release and reaction of healing agent at the site and hence causes polymerization and heals the damage. Another mechanism is the reversible reactions of chemical bonds: a polymer experiences damage causing it to break under stress but reconnects with heat, light or pressure.

This is also known as the Diels-Alder Reaction – a chemical process whereby two molecules combine to form a new, ringshaped structure. The third mechanism is the vascular networks. This is inspired by the self-directed healing processes of living organisms and the blood vessels/capillaries in human beings. Networks within the material contains refillable interconnected capillaries filled with healing agent. Upon capillary rupture, the healing agents are released, and the damage site is healed. The applications of smart materials help to solve many problems world-wide. Uses in surgical implants and drug-infections as well as space exploration not only help technology and scientific research but also provide a more sustainable living environment.

The future of smart technology looks promising. With the current amount of research and development invested in smart materials the world could transform drastically over the next few decades.

Axolotls

by Caroline Chin (6B, WL) Axolotls, a unique species of salamander, possess extraordinary regenerative abilities that sets them apart from most vertebrates. Unlike other animals, they can regenerate entire limbs, spinal cords, and even portions of their brain throughout their lives, a capability typically lost after embryonic development in other species. Axolotls exhibit neoteny, retaining their larval features, such as external gills and a tadpolelike appearance into adulthood while remaining fully aquatic. This rare trait is linked to their suppressed effects of thyroid hormones under normal conditions, which normally triggers metamorphosis in other amphibians. When thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism and development, are artificially increased, they can undergo metamorphosis and develop similar features to that of tiger salamanders, with the addition of terrestrial characteristics. Axolotls’ regeneration process relies on re-differentiating stem cells and adding new neurons. Regulating their genes differently from other organisms gives them this unique ability. Several key components are found to be crucial for regeneration to take place: research has shown that eliminating macrophages (specialized leukocytes) found readily in other vertebrates results in scar tissue formation instead of regeneration after an amputation. Inhibition of the TGF-B (Transforming Growth Factor-beta) protein leads to abnormal regeneration or no regeneration at all, showing that it’s essential for the regenerative process. TGF-B is found to be critical in embryonic development and wound-healing in humans. Scientists speculate that researching more about Axolotls’ neotenic conditions could lead researchers to discover substances that stop ageing in human beings or even reverse the aging process. Regeneration research may help humans to regenerate limbs or even organs, which could eliminate the process of rejection from donation or the risk of disability. CANTUARIAN | 2025

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THE FIRST KING’S WEEK. VOL. X.

JULY, 1952

NO. xx.

First King’s Week 1952 ‘a completely mad venture’.

On Speech Day 1952, according to the Kentish Gazette the Headmaster, Canon Shirley, said, ‘The whole of the King’s Week … was a completely mad venture. No other community could do all that and play three cricket matches as well. It was quite mad and completely successful.’

MUSIC. Handel’s Messiah A Choral Concert, usually featuring an oratorio, was a regular part of King’s Week until 1967, when it moved to the Lent Term.

Admission was by programme only (price 2/6) and there was no applause in the Cathedral. A remarkable quartet of soloists was obtained, as well as a guest trumpeter, Harold Mackintosh of the BBC. Messiah was to be performed again in 1955, 1960 and 1967.

Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro and Cosi fan Tutte Soloists from the Sadler’s Wells Opera Company performed abbreviated versions of these two Mozart operas in the Chapter House.

King Henry the Fourth.

There were six performances of this version of Shakespeare’s Henry IV Part I with some scenes from Part II. The signed programme has been lent by Nigel Wright (GR 1949-54), who was responsible for the ‘excellent lighting’.

Michael Mayne (MO 1943-9), who returned to produce the first King’s Week play and to play Prince Hal, with Nicholas Raffle (GR 1947-53) as Falstaff.

Scene 6: The Boar’s-Head Tavern in Eastcheap. Nicholas Raffle (GR 194753) as Sir John Falstaff with his cronies, including Michael Mayne (MO 1943-9) as Prince Hal, before Malcolm Burgess’s set in the Chapter House.

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Photographic Society Exhibition.

Prominently featured in this exhibition in the Parry were works by the President, Charles Ward, the Vice-President, Ken Yates, the Hon. Sec., Gerassimos Spathis (LX 1948-54), Committee members Michael Patterson (LN 1948-53) and Nigel Wright (GR 1949-54), and Martin Chawner (SH 1947-52).

There was also an Art Exhibition and a Natural History Society Exhibition.

THE CANTUARIAN

King’s Week Programme 1952.

The first King’s Week programme already shows many features that were soon to become traditional. As yet, however, all the advertised performances are indoors, and only three venues are used.

In addition to the published programme, the School Military Band, directed by ‘Paddy’ Purcell, gave concerts after lunch on the Wednesday and Friday.

more music.

Orchestral Concerts The two afternoon concerts were given in the Dining Hall, converted into the ‘King’s Hall’. On the Tuesday, the soloists were Miles Baster (W 194954), who also led the orchestra, and Christopher Featherstone (W 19504). On the Thursday, according to The Cantuarian, ‘for the first time in the history of the School, a complete concerto was to be played’, and the soloist was piano teacher and wellknown virtuoso Ronald Smith. Both

programmes included a Housmaninspired piece by the conductor, Malcolm Boyle.

Military Band Rehearsal Although not in the programme, the Military Band, directed by ‘Paddy’ Purcell, played two concerts on the Wednesday and Friday afternoons.

They also played on Speech Day. Here they are rehearsing in the Lattergate Garden.

IN THE PRESS. The Tatler, July 23, photographed and reported on the School during King’s Week ‘…in which the School’s cultural activities of the year reach public expression.’ This item was presented

by Stephen Young (GR 1945-52), then Captain of School, who is shown in the picture opposite.

The Kentish Gazette reported the events of King’s Week in great detail, even noting the jackdaw called Jake at the Band Concert. The week was a ‘brilliant success’ with ‘a highly successful series of events’.

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Drama (page 54)

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Shell

Shock

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A letter to future Shells by Alexa Blinston-Jones (R, KD) ear Future Pupils,

Most of you reading this are in the same position. Next year you will enrol in The King’s School, Canterbury as Shells.

You probably have thousands of thoughts, worries and expectations about what your five-year journey at this school will provide. For some of you, King’s will be very familiar, whether that’s because you are from JKS or because you live in the Canterbury area. But some of you have no idea what to expect.

prides itself on its community and it shows. It’s won’t take long to find where you belong in that community and feel like you fit in and trust me you will because there is a place and an opportunity for anyone.

When you first arrive, you will find everyone super-helpful in finding your classrooms, teachers helping you with laptops, and your house will slowly start to feel more like a home. If you’re worried about not being welcomed or helped out on your first few days here, you can cross that out of your mind because everyone knows what it’s like to be a Shell and will understand your nerves. Plus, everyone will help you find your classroom so they can use ‘Helping a Shell’ as an excuse for being late!

Well, last year I was one of the anxious new Shells, apprehensive about joining King’s. I had joined JKS in Year 7 and, despite a bit of a rocky start, I left the prep school with a strong group of friends and felt prepared for King’s Senior, or at least I told myself I was. But ‘The best piece of King’s is a school like no other, and you really advice I can give can’t predict what you, personally, will take from you is to dive in the experience.

I know I keep saying this but there really is something for everyone at King’s. We have a wide range of activities, such as debating, drama, cadet-training and even cryptic crossword club (apparently). You can also pick from many different headfirst and just sports, like netball, cricket, rugby, rowing, fencing It’s a school with many diverse personalities and and golf. So, whatever your interest is, King’s enjoy it.’ offers something new for everyone and really can help you pursue it or, if you haven’t found allows you to find out more about yourself and ‘your thing’ yet, you have unlimited resources to what you want to pursue in life. It pushes you in the best way experiment in different hobbies and crafts. possible to unlock the best part of you. It truly is a special school.

Okay, this might sound like the teachers have made me write a So, now you’ve heard me ramble on about how amazing the piece just to make the school look really good, but I genuinely school is and how excited and proud you should be to be able to mean it. I wouldn’t say I’m a harsh critic, but I definitely hold come here, let me give you a few words of wisdom coming from high standards, and I wouldn’t say it if I didn’t mean it. Coming someone who was in your position just a year ago. The biggest to King’s was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. thing to try and do in your first year is to be open-minded. Try new things, meet different kinds of people and try to make the Now, let’s get into what you can expect in your first year here most of this special opportunity. Second, ask for help if you need at King’s. The Shell year was a really fun year in my opinion it – you are so lucky to be joining a school with such a warm (at the time of writing, as a Shell I have twelve days left). It and friendly community where everyone is there to help you included lots of activities, sport, life skills, and fun lessons. The grow, so talk to them. And, finally: give yourself time to find your best piece of advice I can give you is to dive in headfirst and place at King’s. I wish I could tell you that I can wave a magic just enjoy it. Of course, your first year will also come with tough wand and suddenly you’ve got it all figured out with a massive times (I know as a first-time boarder I had plenty) but trust me group of friends and strong ambitions, but I don’t have one (yet). you will look back on it and think, ‘Gosh, Shell was so fun.’

As you grow you will eventually find your place and get good friends, and soon you’ll be leaving school with strong passions, To be completely honest I was terrified my first day here. I was connections and ambitions. overwhelmed with the school traditions I didn’t yet know, the towering 6as and all the posh slang everyone used that I just I will be so excited to see you all grow and look forward to seeing couldn’t figure out – but soon that feeling passed. The school you next year! All best wishes, Alexa Blinston-Jones CANTUARIAN | 2025

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Dear

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A letter to future Removes by Daniel Adegbuyi-Jackson (R, MT) ear New Remove,

Having come to the end of another school year with the looming much of a relief for the teacher to find you’re willing to come to them feeling of GCSEs in the air, thinking about how to spend your with an issue you have. I know it may be a struggle at times to confess time in Remove can be problematic for some. For those joining your struggles, whether it’s out of pride or past negative experiences King’s for the first time, it’s a completely new with said teacher, but ultimately you will benefit from environment, with new faces, facilities, and food! interacting and raising queries with your teachers. If you ‘The reason for So, in writing this, I hope to reassure all of you for still don’t dare to ask your teachers yourself, I’m sure you’ll putting yourself be able to ask through your peers, especially those who the coming months. forward should be have newly joined King’s. But in the unlikely event of your From September I spent my Remove year doing to better yourself, peers declining your plea, you can always confide in your numerous co-curricular activities from King’s to improve upon house matron or Head of House.

Chorus to Sports. Rarely was there a day when I would finish before 6 o’clock, and such timings pre-existing talents To end my message to you all, don’t forget to enjoy didn’t let up during the Spring or Summer term. or talents that you this time. Irrespective of how your grades are going or Truth is, and probably unsurprisingly, I was generally many issues you may have in whatever classes, wish to develop.’ how fairly burnt-out with prep still due within the next guaranteeing you end each day satisfied with yourself is three days, and chores that still required attention. the bare minimum you should ask of yourself. Amongst the Now, I’m sure you’re expecting me to give the stereotypical bustle of responsibilities and grades and commitments, one can easily advice of a teacher and say, ‘You should get involved with all find that life slips away. This year is beyond any rudimentary definitions. that King’s has to offer!’, but I’m not saying this, nor am I saying It’s one of the few stepping stones you have before you reach the zenith you shouldn’t either. While my circumstances may not apply to of your career, the point where your life’s work comes together for the most people, there is always the risk that anyone can become world to see on full display on your CV and/or Personal Statement. This overcommitted, just as I did. is one of the few moments left when you can still be young and explore.

Don’t take it for granted. It will be only too soon before your A’ Levels The message here is, now that you’re reaching for higher are over and you’ll have stepped into the grandeur of the bigger world. accolades in age and maturity, you will have to take responsibility ‘Carpe Diem’ (aka ‘Seize the Day’) is a message in Latin for you not to for your dedication to certain activities, as well as making sure to dwell on the past but instead to propel yourself towards your future and reserve time for yourself. The reason for putting yourself forward take hold of the opportunities that come your way. should be to better yourself, to improve upon pre-existing talents or talents that you wish to develop, because it’s only a matter And, with that, I hope you enjoy your time in Remove! Daniel of time before you’ve finished your A’ Levels and your time in secondary school is over, and the opportunity for learning new skills is long gone. Make Remove your playground. Remove is your playground. Get your hands dirty and kick the sand because this is exactly why the space exists. Find what works and what doesn’t work.

Furthermore, on the topic of maturity and responsibility, of course, the expectation ceiling has once again been raised, due to you stepping up into the next year. With this raised ceiling, your in-class expectations have also risen. This doesn’t mean you need to become a straight-A student in every subject you’ve chosen; all it takes is caring about your subjects. Keep in mind the fact that your teachers are there to support you and want you to ask questions if you don’t understand things. While it is satisfying to answer a question when no one else can, it’s just as

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A letter to future Fifths by Chloe Hay (5th, KD) ear New Fifths

For me, GCSE year always seemed to loom somewhat in the distance, so when I came back to school in September, becoming ‘a Fifth’ was daunting to say the least. It’s a year that everyone had been talking about for ages – how important it is, when you’d finish your exams, and plans for the long summer waiting for you afterwards! There appeared to be a slight shift when people began to knuckle down, yet having now finished my exams, when I reflect on this year I can wholeheartedly say that it has quite probably been my best at King’s so far.

The single most important piece of advice I would like to offer you for the year ahead is that there is no point in winding yourself up too much too soon about your exams.

Whilst the time moves fast, there is still a lot that can be achieved in the months leading up to your GCSEs. Keep on top of the work you are set and, most importantly, listen in your lessons: make the most of the time you have with your teachers because, trust me, it counts later on.

The Michaelmas Term is most definitely one to enjoy. I always think returning to school in September is really special when you catch up with friends that perhaps you have not seen for the entire summer. Settle back in, re-adjust to the workload (which, by the way, ramps up!) and get involved in new activities that you can do now you have transitioned to the more senior part of the school. Be prepared to work hard in all parts of school life: the excuse of exams just will not cut it this early on!

At this point in the year, I was lucky to be part of the school’s 1st XI Hockey team, which meant I could make friends across different year groups and learn about their experiences of being in the Fifth Form too.

I cannot recommend enough continuing with other activities throughout the year alongside your revision. If you can get yourself organised, and plan your time

carefully, you can make sure that everything gets done, including what you like doing as well as revising.

That said, come mocks in January, you will obviously feel the pressure building, and therefore sometimes things have to give.

Teachers at King’s have your best interests at heart, so even if it is a difficult conversation to have, or you feel like you are letting someone down, at the end of the day you are the one who has to sit the exams. In short, it’s busy, and you cannot do it all. Soldiering on will only compound your stress, which really is something to be avoided.

Before very long you will find it is Christmas.

Honestly, you would be silly not to give yourself a break when the holidays arrive.

At the end of a lengthy, demanding term, with mocks just around the corner, I would like to emphasise that rest is very much required. Use that first week and Christmas itself to reconnect and celebrate with your loved ones, but most importantly give yourself some well-deserved downtime.

After Christmas, I found that the lull before the New Year was the time when I first began to revise hard. Do not underestimate the value of your mocks, because no matter the outcome there actually is a lot to take away.

By putting in a bit of a shift beforehand, you will find yourself in much better stead as the real GCSEs draw closer. This early start means there is more time to move information into your long-term memory, making it easier to recall in your exams.

Mocks taught me that to achieve your best you must run your own race. Comparison is the thief of joy, so they say, and it is so important not to compare yourself to your friends, no matter how hard that might sound. Learn from your own mistakes and use your mocks as an incentive to continue to work hard into the summertime. The week itself is tough, so remind yourself that for the real exams you have study leave, and having two exams in a day is not that frequent.

Just as the mock period draws to a close, you are urged to make initial choices for your Sixth Form studies. At the time I thought this was a completely unreasonable ask: I had bigger fish to fry just sitting my GCSEs; but choosing was not so bad. Once reassured that your A’ Level options are not set in stone, attending the subjects fair was a great way to get a flavour of each subject, and combined with advice from teachers and weighing up your passions and abilities I found it did not distract me too much from the looming exams.

Arriving at the Easter holidays, you will feel distinctly in two minds. One: the end is in sight. Two: time is running out. Be methodical about your studies, and do not worry about placing some subjects slightly on the backburner whilst you get through the first few exams. You will realise that there simply is not time for everything, and I would recommend ‘You need that taking each exam as it brain to get comes. Again, not to sound boring, but do from nought prioritise sleep. It is all to sixty in as far more draining than short a time you might imagine, and you need that brain as possible.’ to get from nought to sixty in as short a time as possible. Continue to go to clinics and teams-message your teachers for lastminute advice. Make the most of online resources: a cramming session with Mr YouTube might be a good option…

I have never experienced two months that go by so quickly. Once you are into the swing of exams, you are just about finished! Make the most of your holidays, celebrate with your friends and shift your exams to the back of your mind. One thing I would advise against: three parties on the trot. Pace yourself and definitely don’t underestimate the power of sleep (or rather a lack of it!).

I do not want to sit here and promise that next year is not going to be hard, that you will not get stressed, or that at certain moments all you will want to do is give up; but one thing that I kept reminding myself was that every person my age across the country was going through the same thing. Strength comes in numbers, so if you are having a rocky moment there is almost definitely someone else in exactly the same position.

Enjoy the highs, ask for help through the lows and make sure that when it matters you have done the best you can.

Best wishes, Chloe Hay CANTUARIAN | 2025

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Dear

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A letter to future 6b by Dora Wang (6b, MT) ear New 6b

With GCSEs over, you will find the Sixth Form oddly different, yet still similar to your previous years at King’s. Certainly, I found the transition between Fifth and 6b more of a change than coming to King’s from a different school in Shell. With that in mind, here is some advice that will (hopefully) be useful.

One of the first things you notice in 6b is a change in friendship and relationship dynamics. With new classes, new subjects, new pupils joining, the new year will change the friendships you have formed. Some of those classmates you talked to in the Fifth Form you will no longer share any classes with, and it can be difficult to find chances to meet up. But hold onto those friends and make sure you don’t drift apart: lunchtime is a great time to catch up!

Equally, you’ll probably find ‘When you turn yourself sharing a few classes seventeen, some of with people you don’t you will begin driving know so well yet. Take this opportunity to get to know or getting work people better and, who experience. Lots more knows, you might find a great opportunities will be new friend.

coming your way too.’

Something else you might find different is the way you are perceived, by teachers and pupils, and you may begin to see yourself differently. I’m sure some of you remember feeling in awe or even scared of the Sixth Form as Shells (I know I certainly was). It will feel strange now that you will be part of that Sixth Form. In the same way, many teachers will begin to treat you less as children and more like young adults.

When you turn seventeen, some of you will begin driving or getting work experience. Lots more opportunities will be coming your way too: not just permission to drink alcohol at the Christmas Party, but also the chance to organise events or take on more prominent roles in clubs and societies. You don’t have to do everything, but you might find it interesting to try something.

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Of course, I couldn’t write this letter without mentioning academics. The consequence of gaining teachers’ respect is that they expect you to work hard. This will be easier for some than for others! Whatever subjects you’ve chosen, know that A’ Levels are certainly much more challenging than GCSEs, and finding a good balance between prep, free time and extra activities can be really difficult. You might need to think about what is most important to you at King’s, which for many of my classmates now is beginning to be university applications. You’ll also get to this eventually – probably sooner than you’d like!

So, whether you’re someone who can’t wait to grow up and move out, or someone who would never leave the nest if you had the choice, the new academic year is going to be pivotal now you are looking ahead to becoming an adult. But don’t stress too much and make sure you have fun in 6b too! Grab all those experiences and enjoy the ride.

As for now, I hope you had a great summer holiday, and earned it!

Best wishes, Dora Wang Head Scholar

Drama (page 54)

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The Sebastian Barker Poetry Prize Winner 2025 ‘Earth’s Final Symphony’ by Ethan Sparey (R, GL) We thought they’d end in silence, bent and broken in their falling, Begging for a hand to grasp as darkness drank the sky.

But through the shuddering metal came a sound both strange and solemn, A final song that lingered as they turned their eyes to die.

The fire licked the frozen void, the hull split wide and bleeding, Yet still their voices rose in tune, defiant in the wake.

No pleas, no wails of sorrow, only notes like embers burning, A symphony unbroken as the stars began to break.

And the echoes of their singing, never dim, ever rising, Took the shape of something greater than the fear they left behind.

Not to silence, not to shadow—no, they met the dark in chorus, And their requiem still lingers in the hollow halls of time.

I long to grasp their final hymn, to know the fire they carried, But the chords escape my fingers, and the melody is ash.

For my voice is just a whisper, scattered dust among the stars, A fleeting note, a hollow tune, unheard, unanswered, lost.

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Somerset Maugham Short Story Prize Winner 2025

The Fall

by Milly Cordeaux (5th, MT)

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eath by falling piano is a fate deserved by few, but as I watched the theatre’s century-old grand piano fall on my brother’s head, I somehow felt not one drop of grief in my heart.

The piano was hanging in such a precarious position due to the nature of the show we were doing. It was a musical version of Shakespeare’s Macbeth (I’m not sure what the playwright was thinking), and part of that show was an emotional piano ballad performed by Macbeth detailing his mental turmoil following his killing of his best friend, Banquo.

My dear little brother, naturally, was to play the lead and move the audience to tears with his allegedly melodious voice. His hands gliding across the blackand-white keys as smoothly as the ropes suspending the piano from the ceiling slipped out of their knots and landed it squarely on his head.

The piano was midway through being transferred to a 3-foot-high platform at the back of the stage. I, being the stage manager, had been directing the move and was aiming to get it all sorted the day before. However, scheduling conflicts had meant that we were all forced to leave the theatre in the early afternoon, which left the grand piano dangling cartoonishly from the ceiling, practically asking to fall on someone’s head.

It was a tragic accident, of course. The knots in the ropes suspending the piano from the ceiling weren’t tight enough and had become undone just as my brother stood below it. I had, of course, tried to prevent such an event from happening by marking where the piano could fall with a large “x” on the stage made from fluorescent tape, and when the cast came in to run some scenes, I sternly reminded them of this. They all heeded my warning and steered very clear of the pink cross on the stage, as you would expect any reasonable person to do.

But, you see, my brother wasn’t a very reasonable man.

He had arrived late because he was (apparently) “stuck in traffic”, but when he sauntered onto the stage brandishing an iced caramel latte from Starbucks, I began to suspect otherwise.

But that was just how he was. He was disrespectful, rude, selfish, and most frustratingly he had no respect for the social convention of punctuality. He was late for everything. Auditions, dates, coffee meetings, interviews, the lot. It seemed to him that no event could start until he was there.

He was even late to my wedding and came hurrying up the aisle as the wedding march played, leaving my wife and her family very confused and slightly miffed.

My side of the family, however, didn’t seem to mind.

They all jumped up to greet him and began to fuss over him, telling him he looked well and that it’d been just too long since they’d last seen him and that he should give them a call sometime and that they’d always have a spare room for him to come and stay. My throat seemed to close up as I watched him from the altar, lapping up the attention and grinning charmingly like he always did. At one point, he happened to catch my eye and smiled at me cordially, as if this whole charade couldn’t be helped and was just so typical of our relatives. My wife was halfway down the aisle at this point, and I was on the verge of tears. This was my special day, and my wife looked so incredibly beautiful, but all I could think about was my godforsaken brother and his self-centred antics.

My family let him get away with it. They always did.

He was always their “special boy” who could never do anything wrong. When he practically ruined my wedding and I confronted him about it, it was me who was scolded, not him, because I shouldn’t have been being mean to my little brother and it wasn’t his fault that he was late.

I constantly took the brunt of my parents’ ceaseless anger and bore it like it was my job. At first, when we were younger, I did it to protect him. I tied his shoes for him every single day in primary school because he found it hard, and back then I thought our parents would get mad if they found out he didn’t know how to do it. Looking back, I realise that they wouldn’t have minded that much and probably would’ve sat him down and patiently taught him the intricacies of tying the perfect bow. Maybe they would’ve yelled at me for not teaching him. I didn’t mind always doing his shoes for him, though, since I’ve always been quite good with knots, and any opportunity to practice was a chance not to be wasted.

My protecting him then continued into adulthood.

When my brother realised how much effort went into becoming a screen actor and decided to devote his talents to the stage, I started doing backstage work at the theatres he was performing in so I could keep an eye on him and keep him out of trouble. When he fought with the director over a stage direction, I was there to

The Fall

negotiate a middle ground. When he punched someone in a pub for not recognising him from a badly designed promotion poster, I was the one to apologise to the poor guy and offer to buy him a drink. Over time, it became less about protecting him and more about looking after him, because it was the only thing I knew how to do.

I didn’t exist for myself; I existed for his benefit. I was his secretary, his therapist, his chaperone.

However, over time, I became increasingly conflicted.

Surely he was old enough to look after himself by now?

I often thought about taking a step back and letting him get by on his own, but every time I considered it, something would always happen that would remind me why he needed me.

Two years ago, my wife and I went on holiday to Wales for a bit of peace and quiet. I gave my brother an extensive list of appointments he had to go to and reassured myself that he’d be fine without me, but not even two hours after we’d arrived at our accommodation, he called me in a panic because he’d missed the train to the ‘most important audition of his career’. He was frantically asking me what to do, complaining about how this was going to be his ‘big break,’ and he was going to miss it because he’d missed his train. Despite wanting to leave him to get on with it himself, I could see in my mind’s eye an image of my parents yelling at me for not helping my dear little brother and how horrible I was for not supporting him when he needed me. I then

proceeded to painstakingly walk him through what to do next and emailed the theatre hosting his audition on his behalf to explain the situation.

When I returned home after my holiday, I opened the door to find my brother asleep on my sofa, having let himself in with his spare key. The key I gave him in case of an emergency. I woke him up and asked what was going on, only for him to whine about me bothering him when he was sleeping. It turns out that he was being evicted from his flat for forgetting to pay his rent for the third month in a row, and decided that instead of sorting out his rent or staying in a hotel, he thought it’d be fine for him to just crash at my house for a bit.

I was only on holiday for three days.

Even though he was egotistical and infuriating, he was still my little brother. Even when he shouted, forgot everything, was late to everything, and made everything about him, he was still my little brother, and I knew him better than anyone, after decades of dealing with his nonsense. So when on that fateful day, he walked onto that stage clutching his coffee, I knew he’d go and stand on the cross. I assume he thought it was put there just for him, to make sure he was the centre of attention. I would be surprised if he didn’t.

His castmates warned him about the piano, frantically trying to usher him off the cross. He didn’t believe them, of course. He thought they were playing some elaborate joke and told them that pianos only fall on people’s heads in cartoons. It was only after a few minutes of pleading that he finally looked up.

And at that moment, with the most cruel comedic timing known to man, the piano began to fall. My dear little brother was crushed instantly. He barely had the time to acknowledge it.

My fingertips were stinging as I watched it fall, and at that moment I couldn’t help but think about how I’d always been quite good with knots.

And though I’ve always been good at tying knots, my real skills lie in untying them.

Part of that show was an emotional piano ballad performed by Macbeth detailing his mental turmoil following his killing of his best friend, Banquo.

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Music Pani Cochrane (6a, MR) and Charley Woodhead (5th, MR) share their musical highlights of the year.

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Music Review

by Pani Cochrane (6a, MR)

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elodies and music fill every inch and corner of The King’s School, a mixture of pieces floating around Green Court from The Music School, or Congers spilling out from The Shirley Hall on a Friday morning. Our school is constantly packed with music; it is the heart of King’s life whether one is part of it or simply supporting it. This year, as with every year, it has been incredibly busy in the Music Department, from Jazz and Rock to Scarlatti. The Fridays at 5.15 Informal Recitals held the year togehter, creating a relaxed environment for any musicians to perform all genres of music with a huge range of instruments.

The Autumn Term is a highlight of the year for not only musicians but the whole school. The House Song Competition raises high house spirits and involves everyone. This year’s entrances were incredibly strong, but Linacre’s expertise at harmonies, tone and a connected sound gave them first place, winning them the House Song Cup. The Crypt Choir had a busy start to the year. With the sun still shining in September, the Crypt Choir journeyed to Stowting for a remarkable concert that started with Charles Wood’s powerful ‘Hail Gladdening Light’, dramatically contrasting with the delicate traditional songs that followed. The magical Baroque style of Monteverdi’s ‘Beatus Vir’ led smoothly into the peaceful fluidity of Shepherd’s ‘Never Weather Beaten Sail’. While the leaves began to turn fiery, the choir was invited to sing an Evensong at St. Lawrence Jewry in ‘‘The captivating London, where we sang the expressive precision of Hubert Parry remembrance song, Tchaikovsky’s ‘Swan ‘My Soul, There Is A Country’, with Lake’ and Prokofiev’s rising and falling melodies that reflect hope for peace and the need for dramatic ‘Cinderella the remembering the sacrifices made in Suite No. 1’ brought war. This song was also performed the classical magic by the Crypt Choir at the Service of Christmas to of Remembrance, when the choir everyone listening and plays an important role in showing the importance of remembrance performing.’’ and peace through emotional music accompanied by significant words. In November, the choir took to Chessington World of Adventures, where we experienced a very unique way of singing – upside down! The choir sang ‘Ding Dong! Merrily on High’, a very fitting carol for a setting of 66ft above the ground on a roller coaster. The King’s School Symphony Orchestra and Chorus came together to perform the Christmas Concert at the end of term. The captivating precision of Tchaikovsky’s ‘Swan Lake’ and Prokofiev’s dramatic ‘Cinderella Suite No. 1’ brought the classical magic of Christmas to everyone listening and performing. The choir was accompanied by 106

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the orchestra for traditional Christmas songs, including the beautiful and calming ‘In The Bleak Midwinter’ by Holst. The percussion was at the heart of creating fun in Anderson’s ‘Sleigh Ride’, which culminated in the perfect addition of a trumpet whinny. Following this, there was more excitement at Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree, where the 6th Form enjoyed singing along to Christmas classics played by King’s musicians and teachers.

After the Christmas holiday, King’s music returned ready for another term of intense rehearsals and superb performances. The musical highlight of the Lent Term is the requiem that the King’s School Chorus and Symphony Orchestra perform together. This year Maurice Duruflé’s magical and beautiful ‘Requiem, Op. 9’ was chosen. After many hours of hard work in putting this exquisite piece together, the Orchestra and Chorus performed it in Canterbury Cathedral with two incredible soloists: Katie Bray and Benjamin Bevan. Bray’s enchanting sound captivated the emotional melody of the ‘Pie Jesu’ which perfectly matched the mellow sound of the ’cello solo; Bevan’s powerful voice fitted the drama and tension of the harmonies in ‘Domine Jesu Christe’ and ‘Libera Me’. Fauré’s passionate ‘Pavane’ and Debussy’s ‘Prélude à l’après-midi d’un faune’ were played beautifully by the Orchestra as part of the concert. Prior to this event, the Crypt Choir returned to St. Lawrence Jewry to perform this magnificent requiem as a smaller group and only with organ and ’cello accompaniment. The solos were performed by two members of the choir, Louis Plaskett (6b) and Romola Woodhouse (6a), and

the ’cello solo by Toby Davies (6a). The closeness of the smaller choir and delicacy of the organ made the two performances different but equally beautiful.

Term with a captivating show of the incredible precision that makes chamber music so spectacular.

Arguably the most important time of year for music at King’s is the The Lent Term held two musical competitions: the Piano Competition Summer Term, because all of the time dedicated to music comes and the Lynn Recital Prize. The Piano Competition together in King’s Week. King’s Week explodes with ‘The closeness of consisted of a Junior and a Senior section. The Juniors music every day, never failing to suit all interests. played music ranging from classical Beethoven Thursday Night is Music Night starts the week off the smaller choir to modern Hans Zimmer, and the Sixth Formers and delicacy of the strongly with the Concert Band and Sinfonia providing contained the contrasting styles of Haydn and Ravel. wartime music in recognition of the VE Day celebrations organ made the Tippett’s ‘Sonata No. 2’ was played extraordinarily by this year. While the sun sets, jazz descends on Green two performances Court’s marquee for a calming performance of Jazz Samuel Chang (6b), who took the overall winner cup.

The Lynn Recital Prize was filled with beautiful music different but equally on a Summer Sunset, where vocals, saxophones, from 6a pupils, but Joe Netley (6a) took home the prize trumpets, guitars, keyboards and more build a serene beautiful.’ for his impressive violin playing of Debussy, Bloch and atmosphere. Later on in the week, jazz takes centreYsaÿe. The range of instruments made this a wonderful performance stage again for the Jazz Concert, when the King’s Big Band fills the consisting of organ, horn, viola, violin and voice.

Shirley Hall with baritone saxophones and trombones. The Close Harmony groups take the stage to perform arrangements of jazzy The first two terms gave us a number of Chamber performances. songs as a calming interlude before the talented trumpet solos and The Chamber Orchestra Concert in December showcased the powerful vocals form the Big Band’s deep sound again. extremely high level of musical expertise King’s pupils harness, and illustrated the beauty of chamber music at King’s. Scarlatti’s ‘Stabat Picture a more perfect scene: angelic voices singing an eclectic mix Mater’ was performed by the Chamber Choir in the candle-lit setting of evening music, flowers surrounding you in the peaceful Cathedral of the Shirley Hall, adding to the atmosphere of Scarlatti’s angelic Waterhouse Garden, and a warm summer evening with pink harmonies. The Chamber Music Platform held a combination of skies turning to bright stars. This is the Serenade. This year marks instrumental chamber groups and vocal groups, ending the Lent a significant historical time: 80 years since the end of the Second CANTUARIAN | 2025

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‘Sounding Out is a programme run by King’s that provides lessons in orchestral instruments to children at all the primary schools in Canterbury.’

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World War (VE Day). The importance of this was seen where the chamber groups, solo performers, and in this year’s Serenade, with some pieces paying tribute duets are spread around the building’s beautiful to such a significant day in history. This event would not acoustics. The Voice and the Sound are two other be the same without some jazzy rhythms, which were concerts that happen during the week. The Pop mastered in ‘I Got Rhythm’; complex harmonies, which music from vocals and bands spill out of the Green created magic in ‘Shenandoah’; and the evening closed Court marquee, the fun music drifting around the with a beautiful calm song, ‘The Seal Lullaby’. The King’s Precincts.

Men and The King’s Swingers filled the Garden with skilful balances of parts during the performance. The If you thought that only classical styles of music 6a soloists made the evening even more were celebrated during King’s Week, special with their talented and unique ‘The Pop music from then you have not yet seen the voices. extraordinary Oasis tribute, which vocals and bands could not miss out the timeless ‘Don’t Sounding Out is a programme run by spill out of the Green Look Back In Anger’. Pupils formed King’s that provides lessons in orchestral Court marquee, the the band and vocals, giving exuberant instruments to children at all the primary fun music drifting concerts in St. Mary’s Hall, where the schools in Canterbury, without costs rock style was created through wild blocking this opportunity. On Saturday around the Precincts.’ lighting and many amps. mornings, free instrumental lessons are held in the Music School, and during King’s Week A new event this year was the Saturday Camerata. there is a Sounding Out Concert when the children Ending the year with a final collection of chamber come together to perform as a group. This significant groups and the Chamber Choir truly illustrates the programme has been selected as a finalist for both importance of this style of music to King’s. The the Classic FM Teacher of the Year Awards, in the best Chamber Choir’s rendition of the ‘Stabat Mater’ music initiative class, and the TES Creative Art School of encapsulated the cleverness of Scarlatti’s writing the Year award. and the time the choir spent on finalising this over the year. Smaller chamber groups performed the Throughout King’s Week there are four Music at spectacular ‘Viola Concerto’ by Telemann, as well as Lunchtime Recitals. These are held in the Old Synagogue, the magic of Doppler’s ‘Fantasie Pastorale Hongroise

‘King’s Week explodes with music every day, never failing to suit all interests.’

for Flute and Orchestra’. The classic Wagner ‘Siegfried Idyll’ resonated around the Shirley Hall. Chamber music continued the next day with the Virtuosi. On the Sunday of King’s Week, the Shirley Hall was filled with the Chamber Orchestra’s special sound, when the closeness of the strings with the brass and woodwind worked in perfect harmony to perform Prokofiev’s ‘Peter and The Wolf’ and Mozart’s ‘Horn Concerto’.

On the final night of King’s Week, the Symphony Orchestra enters the Shirley Hall to perform the Gala Symphony ‘Music is the key to Concert.

This year’s King’s life, and is outstanding performance allowed selected music marked throughout scholars to perform concerto movements, including the year, every year.’

Tchaikovsky’s ‘Violin Concerto’, Larsson’s ‘Horn Concertino’, and Bruch’s ‘Kol Nidrei for Cello and Orchestra’. The second half of the concert featured a complete performance of Tchaikovsky’s 5th Symphony, where the tricky semi-quaver violin runs flow into angelic flute lines.

Music is the key to King’s life, and is marked throughout the year, every year. It allows all pupils to get involved, but also shows the incredibly high standard King’s pupils produce.

Making music at King’s is special and is remembered by all involved, whether they are a performer or simply enjoying the event. CANTUARIAN | 2025

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y n o mph No. 5

Focus on Music: Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5 in E Minor by Charley Woodhead (5th, MR)

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n a hot July evening outside the Shirley Hall, sixty adrenalinefueled King’s pupils stood comparing injuries caused by the unrelenting fifty minutes of music they had just performed to an enraptured audience. Crooked fingers in the woodwind, sore necks in the strings and lips drier than unsoaked Weetabix in the brass were just some of the complaints raised by members of the orchestra – a sure indication of the superhuman effort put in by every single musician to deliver surely one of the most complex and technically advanced performances the school has ever witnessed. But despite the various minor injuries, and still out of breath, all of us buzzed with excitement, a wide range of emotions on display, much akin to those of the preceding symphony.

King’s Week 2025 had now come to a close with the Gala Symphony Concert, crowned by a stirring performance of Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No.5 in E minor. This emotionally charged work made for a bold and fitting end to the year’s musical life, showcasing the orchestra’s ambition and maturity.

Hours of preparation had gone into the performance. Regular gatherings on Mondays and Thursdays throughout the year led into daily rehearsals in the week leading up to the concert. At last, as the opening Andante’s haunting clarinet theme emerged from the shadows, the orchestra ushered the audience into Tchaikovsky’s turbulent world of fate and triumph.

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sweeping drama. The string section, with rich tones, gave poignancy to the recurring Fate motif, while the brass delivered moments of thrilling grandeur, an anticipatory nod to the final movement. As the first movement continued into the Allegro con anima, the music grew ever more restless. The orchestra exhibited a kaleidoscope of colour and texture, conveying the dynamic range and sheer power of the section.

‘The orchestra exhibited a kaleidoscope of colour and texture, conveying the dynamic range and sheer power of the section.’

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the sweeping melody in the strings and subsequently woodwind accompanied with pinpoint accuracy by the brass and others. This showed the much lighter, balletic side of Tchaikovsky’s style, providing respite from the seemingly inevitable presence of the Fate theme and the violent warlike passages which accompany it.

After the ballet, battle resumed. The Finale opened with the violins’ triumphant melody. Low in the register The second movement’s opening horn solo was and, for the first part, entirely on the G string, the the undisputed highlight of the sonority was richly confident, evening. Tchaikovsky, the master exuding patriotism. The brass orchestrator, chose to set the picked this up as the tension rose ‘Tchaikovsky, the master section in the horn’s A major, an (not for the first, or indeed last, orchestrator, chose to set unnatural key for the instrument, time) to fever pitch, an extended the section in the horn’s in order to access soft and languid drumroll heralding the arrival of A major, an unnatural sonorities created by sharps in the the most combative section of the middle register. It was a privilege to key for the instrument, in piece so far. After thrilling battlebe sitting next to Henry Elliott, who cries from the upper brass, the order to access soft and played with elegance and sensitivity, imposed an unsettling languid sonorities created timpani capturing the melancholy nostalgia calm over the performance. It is by sharps in the middle that lies at the heart of much a not unnoticed phenomenon Russian music. that the favourite moments of register.’ players themselves are often not in Throughout, the woodwind added their own parts; and my favoured colour and clarity, contributing to the symphony’s passage came next in the form of a yearning, cascading contrasting moods — from intimate reflection to melody in the violins. defiant exuberance. The brass provided a smooth accompaniment to the woodwind solos: more high- Another fast-paced, hunting-like passage paved the way pressure moments, executed flawlessly. The ensuing for a reprisal of the main themes, as sections of music Waltz danced with lightness and grace. Once again, piled on top of each other, creating waves of energy. The the orchestra rose to the challenge with passion and sixty-strong orchestra pushed through to the final slow precision. The sense of unity and purpose was clear, section solely on adrenaline, all conventional energy

‘The choice of such an immense work was ambitious, but the orchestra rose to the occasion with musical maturity and emotional depth.’

having taken its leave of us long before. Tchaikovsky brings the symphony full circle by reprising themes heard in earlier movements. The hunting theme that had characterised the Andante sections of the piece returned for one last time, an ultimate exultant cry to end what had been an unforgettable evening of music.

Being seated in the centre of the fray also gave me the perfect position from which to reflect upon the very personal journey through colours and scenes Tchaikovsky takes us on.

From the dark, nebulous surroundings of Fate to the battle cries which end the Finale, ‘Being seated in the via waltzes, sighs, hunts centre of the fray also and contemplation, this gave me the perfect monumental work felt less a symphony and more like position from which like a voyage. The performance to reflect upon the was not only a testament very personal journey to the technical skill of the through colours and individual players, fourteen scenes Tchaikovsky of whom were performing in takes us on.’ their final school concert, but also to the collective spirit and dedication that characterises music at King’s. The choice of such an immense work was ambitious, but the orchestra rose to the occasion with musical maturity and emotional depth. The Gala Symphony Concert reminded all present of the vital place music holds in school life — both as an artistic pursuit and a shared celebration.

Tchaikovsky’s Fifth demands heart as much as it does technique, and this performance had both in abundance.

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Autumn Term

House Song Competition – Winner: Linacre Christmas Concert Crypt Choir Concert at Stowting Church Figaro Fifths: Mozart Marriage of Figaro Performance Piano Masterclasses with Mihai Ritivoiu and Piano Recital St Lawrence Jewry, London Prep Schools’ Choral Day Chamber Orchestra Concert Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree

Lent Term The Piano Competition – Winner: Sam Chang (6b, GL) Concert Band Performance Chamber Music Platform Duruflé Requiem: Crypt Choir at St Lawrence Jewry, London Duruflé Requiem: King’s Chorus Performance in the Cathedral The Lynn Recital Prize Chamber Choir Performance of Scarlatti’s Stabat Mater

Summer Term The Spanish Guitar Workshop The Shell Music Scholars’ Concert King’s Week Arts Festival Thursday Night is Music Night Jazz on a Summer Sunset Music at Lunchtime Recitals The Gala Concert The Serenade The Jazz Concert Acoustic Corner The Voice The Sound The Saturday Camerata Oasis Virtuosi: Peter and the Wolf Sounding Out Concert Choirs in the Quire King’s Vocal Collective Encore

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Sports Review by Theodora Caser (6b, WL) and Lutendo Nematswerani (6b, MO)

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he King’s sports year was packed with intense matches, testing tournaments and high-stakes showdowns that kept fans on the edge of their seats, producing unforgettable moments and great lessons for all our athletes.

Following a rigorous pre-season, the First XI Hockey girls dived straight into their season by winning their first match 6-0 against Sevenoaks, and facing tough competition they persevered and delivered a strong performance in the St George’s 6s Tournament.

The season soon proved to be one of the most successful statswise that King’s has had in years, with the girls winning nine matches out of fourteen and losing only five. The team scored a total of 28 goals, with their top goal-scorer being Mathilda Ersser (6a, LX). Highs were also seen for the boys’ First XI, with the most notable achievement being their win in the final of the Frank Mason tournament. Both teams also had the privilege of training on the same Astro used by the England Team, at Lee Valley.

Coming off an impressive and highly promising pre-season, the 1st XV Rugby team launched their campaign in spectacular fashion.

They stormed into the season winning three consecutive games before narrowly missing out against Worth School (31-28) in what some would call ‘the game of the season’, a nail-biting contest that had spectators on edge until the final whistle. Despite the setback, they drove onward, led by their captain Bryan Onwuka (6a, MO), and topped the season off by dominating local rivals, Simon Langton, in the annual derby – an emphatic end not only to a season fuelled by grit, teamwork and enjoyment, but also a statement that King’s athletes always rise above adversity to achieve any goal they set.

The Lent Term sparked the return of the Netball 1st Team. After an undefeated season last year, the bar was set high for the new netball squad. However, results were delivered in their first match with a 17-14 win against Canterbury Academy. The team also placed third, narrowly missing out in the semi-finals of the U19 Kelsall Tournament. The team managed to uphold a strong performance throughout the season, winning ten matches and losing only one. Captain Lily Hastilow (6b, MR) said, ‘It was the best season with the best coaches,’ crediting the team’s success to the coaches Dee and Ms Wayman. The Lacrosse season this year proved to be challenging for the 1st team, following the loss of several players. Despite a tough start, the team showed resilience and determination, managing to score an impressive 59 goals over the two terms. The highlight came during the final tournament on Birley’s home ground, where the team delivered a standout performance by defeating both the University of Kent and Canterbury Christ Church. With renewed energy and optimism, the team is now looking ahead to next year, aiming to come back stronger and compete in the National Schools Lacrosse Championships.

Football at King’s, also played in the Lent Term, always comes with an element of unpredictability and novelty. However, love of the beautiful game always prevails throughout the school. A new year brought new beginnings for the boys’ 1st XI with a new Head of 118

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Football being appointed: Mr Odev. With a fresh mind joining the side, preparation began early in the Autumn Term for their Barcelona tour, where the 1st XI drew 3-3 to an Academy side. Although they battled with stability throughout the season, they finished with notable wins against Kent College (1-0) and Ashford School (5-3). It’s fair to say the debut year of a new head coach marked the rebirth of King’s football.

The Summer Term brought clear weather for the tennis season. Despite losing the 6a and Fifth Form pupils to exams, the teams still managed to perform phenomenally throughout the season. The team’s training began early in the year with sessions at Kent Uni’s indoor facilities.

Throughout the Autumn Term the 1st Team girls competed well against Sevenoaks, Sutton Valence and Bromley High School in the LTA Year 11-13 Cup Competition. Similarly, the boys’ 1st Team competed in the Regional Cup but lost out to Tonbridge in the group stage.

Success for the promising young tennis player, Julie Oprchal, continues as she and Sophia finished runners-up against Sevenoaks in the final of the Regional Tournament. Across the season the boys’ 1st Team blossomed, winning seven matches and losing five.

The start of the cricket season stirs not just excitement for the sport, but daydreams of long, sun-soaked summer days. The long winter months spent in the indoor nets preparing for the season clearly didn’t go to waste because so far there have been two new additions to the honours board: Alexander Clayton (5th, CY) took five wickets against a

SPORT strong Sutton Valence side, and Archie Brown (5th, season, including their unofficial captain, David TR) scored a fantastic 110 against the touring Band Dong (6b, MO), who fought well in the highly of Brothers side. Other exceptional performances competitive U18 Kent restricted tournament included Tristan Fenwick Wilson’s (5th, LN) 133 and Kent senior open, losing only to an England against Caterham and youngster Hari Dhar’s (Sh, player. The revolution of the growing sport can be MT) 105* against Sutton Valence. Our young 1st credited to their coach, Miss Beach, a former GB XI continually impresses and Badminton player who ranked #4 emphasises the shear depth and nationally and #212 worldwide. potential King’s has available ‘A long stretch of within its cricket club. It’s exciting The squash team had an even strong wins across the to see how the team progresses season (22 games: won 11, lost November-February as they move further into cricket 11). Captained by Daniel Seo week, the last week of term.

(6a, GL), the team triumphed period for both the specifically during the Autumn girls and boys proves Change. Change has been a Term when they won 7 out of 11 a promising start for persistent presence around games whilst beating notorious Badminton.’

King’s over the last year or so and powerhouses like Sevenoaks and it is definitely apparent within Tonbridge, and with that they the realm of Badminton. This maintain an unbeaten record year, Badminton went from a 6a-only activity to against Tonbridge. Since being promoted to a recognised whole-year sport now open to both Division 1 last season, the team has flourished as senior and junior girls and boys. A long stretch of the top five played in three separate tournaments, strong wins across the November-February period placing 3rd, 5th and 3rd, ranking them amongst for both the girls and boys proves a promising the top 20 best squash schools in the country. start for Badminton. A few players have shone this Individually, they had captain Daniel Seo (6a, GL)

‘King’s athletes always rise above adversity to achieve any goal they set.’

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‘Throughout the year, all our athletes worked tirelessly to achieve their goals in their specific sport.’

and Gus Goddard (6a, MT) both play for the U19 Kent team.

Young star, Lucas Lam, a Year 8 pupil currently attending JKS, also featured in the U18 team this year as well as representing Kent U13.

The golf squad performed extremely well over their season, qualifying through the regional rounds of the ISGA National Finials at Slayley Hall in Northumberland, and now face the challenge of playing some of the top golfers in the country. Their success did not stop there since they went on to defeat the OKS at Royal St George’s for the first time in many years.

In horse riding Charlie Fairclough-Jackson (6b, CY) competed in the Ham House Tournament at Ham Polo Club, playing for The Desert Knight team. He played in a thrilling final against Solar de Mendieta and came away with a win, scoring one of the goals for his team.

Another dominant force in King’s sport this year was the Boat Club (KSCBC). With the addition of their new head coach, Luke Reiser, the club embraced his exceptional techniques and expectations in line with GB rowing. Off the back of Easter training in Sabuadia, Italy, both our senior and junior teams were prepared for the National Schools Regatta where seven of our crews took part in the highly competitive event. Their hard work behind the scenes clearly didn’t go unnoticed when the boys 8+ placed 2nd fastest non-qualifiers at the Henley Royal Regatta Qualifiers, the highest the School has placed since 2019. The boys’ 1st VIII were incredibly close to qualifying for the Princess Elisabeth Challenge Cup, but missed out by just one second.

Throughout the year, all our athletes worked tirelessly to achieve their goals in their specific sport. However, they never forgot to smile and enjoy the process because that is what sport is about – enjoyment. Whether it’s to destress after a long day of lessons or training for a prestigious tournament, it’s all for enjoyment, and we feel King’s sport is a true embodiment of this. 120

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Badminton

by Nick Lamb (6b, LN)

‘O

h, you want to try badminton this weekend? Yea, I’ll play with you,’ said David Dong (6b, MO). Yes, I remember a time when it was just myself and David playing badminton in an empty sports hall. Now, I think of the insane number of people who use badminton courts at weekends and drive the Rec Centre staff crazy. Within a year of being introduced as a main sport, badminton has grown to be one of the more popular sports at King’s – so ‘Within a year of being popular, in fact, that even the Captain of introduced as a main sport, Fencing, Leah Kim (6b, JR), comes to play at weekends. Sometimes, I feel some badminton has grown to be people love badminton a bit too much. A one of the more popular sports prime example is the Head of Bailey, Elena at King’s.’ Chin. On the outside she seems like your average badminton amateur but deep down she loves it so much she invites people to play at 7am on a Sunday morning. This year alone there have been 24 fixtures against other schools, clubs, and tournaments for the team. I have been around for enough matches to see highlights and lowlights. The results may change but the effort and attitude the team shows is incredible and I cannot be happier to play alongside these wonderful players, tall and short.

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Many people started playing badminton to keep fit or to try a new hobby, but I started playing badminton because David Dong (6b, MO) said that many pretty girls play badminton. He was right. Amongst the twelve teams we’ve faced, I’ve managed to meet a lot of amazing people, which makes me wish King’s had introduced badminton sooner. But I am grateful, nonetheless. Thank you, Miss Beach. In March 2025 the 6bs went on a school trip to Birmingham to watch the All England, one of the biggest tournaments hosted each year, and we were lucky enough to watch the quarterfinals and semifinals. Like with other sports, watching it in real life is not like watching it on tv at home. What made it so special was that it was my first-ever time watching badminton live. (Of course, it was also because of my friends, but that line is so corny I decided not to put it in.) I had a lot of fun and even got a selfie with one of the players! If I can compare this to anything, it is equivalent to meeting your favourite childhood Minecraft YouTuber in real life, so interpret that as you may.

Badminton at King’s is a relatively new sport that was introduced this year. Many students chose it, thinking it was an easy indoor sport, to avoid the rain. Out of the 86 seniors who chose badminton, only 32 got in, around 26 people competed in matches, and only 12 people are regularly selected for the first team. It’s not so easy now, is it? 

‘In March 2025 the 6bs went on a school trip to Birmingham to watch the All England, one of the biggest tournaments hosted each year.’

‘I cannot be happier to play alongside these wonderful players.’

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Let’s Go! Trips 2024 - 2025 LONGMOOR

NEW YORK

BARCELONA

Fifths CCF 30 September 02 October 2024 Mr A Goddard

Drama 18 - 22 October 2024 Miss R Frances

Football Tour 13 - 17 December 2024 Mr A Odev

BERLIN LONDON Fifths Running Wild Monopoly 01 - 02 October 2024 Mr A Vintner

MEREWORTH WOODS 6b & Remove CCF 08 - 09 October 2024 Mr A Goddard

BUCKMORE PARK Remove Running Wild Autumn Camp 09 - 10 October 2024 Mr A Vintner

BUDAPEST Fencing U17 Circuit 11 - 13 October 2024 Mr M Chapman

VENICE 6b & 6a Art 18 - 22 October 2024 Mr D Willis

ATHENS 6b & 6a Classics 18 - 21 October 2024 Mr M Browning

History Fifths 18 - 22 October 2024 Mr T Sherwin

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Fencing U17 Euro Circuit 10 - 12 January 2025 Mr M Chapman

PEAK DISTRICT 6b D of E Gold 19 - 23 October 2024 Mr A Vintner

SEVILLE Remove MFL 20 - 25 October 2024 Mrs B Garces Ramon

CARDIFF Fencing Welsh Open 09 - 10 November 2024 Mr M Chapman

GRENOBLE Fencing U17 Euro Circuit 24 - 26 November 2024 Mr M Chapman

COPENHAGEN Fencing U17 Euro Circuit 29 November 1 December 2024 Mr M Chapman

NEW YORK 6a Economics 13 - 18 December 2024 Mrs L Horn

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ESTONIA 6b Young Enterprise Trade Fair and Competition 06 - 10 February 2025 Mrs L Horn

DIBGATE Remove & 6b CCF 14 - 16 February 2025 Mr A Goddard

NORTHERN IRELAND Fifths & 6a Geology 13 - 18 February 2025 Mr M Mawby

DISNEYLAND PARIS Shell Biology 14 - 17 February 2025 Mr B Landymore

NORWICH 6b NORMAC Conference 06 - 09 March 2025 Miss A Partridge

OXFORD

GRANTHAM

FLATFORD MILL

6b & 6a Oxford Union Schools Debating Finals 14 - 16 March 2025 Mr W Corbyn

Junior Inter-Regional Regatta 2025 25 - 26 April 2025 Mr L Reiser

6b Biology 18 - 20 June 2025 Dr H Vaughan

BIRMINGHAM

MEREWORTH WOODS

Badminton All England Competition 14 - 15 March 2025 Miss E Beach

Remove CCF 29 - 30 April 2025 Mr A Goodard

HENLEY Henley Rowing Regatta 20 - 21 June 2025 Mr L Reiser

CHICHESTER

BRAMLEY

REMOVE RUNNING

6b CCF 21 - 23 March 2025 Mr A Goddard

Wild Summer Camp 29 - 30 April 2025 Mr A Vintner

Rem, Fifths, 6b, 6a Itchenor Schools Sailing Nationals 21 - 24 June 2025 Mr B Mumford

CAMBRIDGE

DORSET

ICELAND

Cambridge Debating Finals 21 - 23 March 2025 Mr W Corbyn

6b Geography Field Trip 16 - 18 May 2025 Miss F Dolan

6b Geography 04 - 07 July 2025 Miss F Dolan

BAY OF NAPLES

NATIONAL WATER

WALES

Shell Geography & Classics Sports Centre 28 March - 02 April 2025 National Schools Regatta Miss F Dolan 22 - 25 April 2025 Mr L Reiser

Pony Trekking 04 - 08 July 2025 Miss E Triffault

SABAUDIA

CCF SUMMER CAMP

Rowing Training Camp 28 March - 05 April 2025 Mr L Reiser

ANGELSEY 6b Geology 05 - 09 June 2025 Mr M Mawby

ANGLESEY D of E Bronze & Gold 29 March - 03 April 2025 Mr A Vintner

DURHAM Shell & 6a CCF 12 - 13 June 2025 Mr A Goddard

04 - 13 July 2025 Mr A Goddard

SOUTH AFRICA Fifths & 6b Rugby Camp 28 July - 08 August 2025 Mr M Lister

ISLE OF WIGHT UKSA Sailing Easter Camp 17 - 20 April 2025 Mr B Mumford

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Venice

by Uliana Kushkova (6b, KD)

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he art and photography trip to Venice was my absolute favourite of all the school trips I have been on. Not only the impressive atmosphere ‘In each of the and architecture of the city itself were eight exhibitions fascinating, but I would also point out that in each of the eight exhibitions we visited, there we visited, there certainly were things certainly were that stood out and attracted our full things that attention. For example, at the Biennale, stood out and the highlight was the Venice pavilion attracted our full with truly impressive artworks. At the attention.’

Fondazione Querini Stampalia, many of us were impressed by the ‘salon’ with a significant number of artworks that captured architectural scenes, landscapes, and interiors, all drawn in a similar style.

The Accademia exhibited an enormous collection of various artworks, which unfortunately we couldn’t get around completely, otherwise we would have spent the entire trip in just one museum.

However, it was an incredibly inspiring experience. Museo Fortuny was another highlight of the trip, where I personally admired the beautiful selection of paintings and portraits. At the Doge’s Palace, many were interested in the dungeons, but I was truly impressed by the significant number of details on the delicately painted ceilings. Overall, this trip was filled with fascinating and memorable moments. It was certainly a very pleasant and exciting way to start the half term break, and I also found it absolutely inspiring as an art student.

‘‘At the Fondazione Querini Stampalia, many of us were impressed by the ‘salon’ with a significant number of artworks that captured architectural scenes, landscapes, and interiors, all drawn in a similar style.’’

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South AfricA The following diary entries were written by pupils on the Biology Trip in the summer of 2024. Each day, one person was chosen to be Team Captain responsible for leading the group and writing a diary entry. The diary starts on 5 July 2024.

D

ay One - Tara jellyfish. The weather was cold and rainy and we couldn’t spend We landed in Cape Town at 10:30 but had a two-hour wait much time outdoors or along the coast. We came back and played in immigration before picking up our bags and meeting Empire (Holly, Flora and Tara won) and then played group card our lovely guide, Tiaan. We got a much-needed coffee and headed games, including Top Trumps, which I lost. to the guest house. After having a look around the beautiful accommodation and meeting the resident tortoises and Yorkie Day Four - Xylia terrier, Leila, we had lunch and set off for Table Mountain. After a Today was a long, long, long day. But it was fun. Very tiring though. hefty wait in the queue, we got onto the cable car which was worth We went snorkelling at Cape Radd. It was around a 40-minute the wait. The view over Cape Town from the top was breathtaking drive from our accommodation. Wetsuits are so hard to get on and deserving of our many photos. We also encountered a lot of (very hard). We drove to snorkelling despite a beautiful flora and birdlife alongside some dassies storm brewing in Cape Town. It wasn’t raining, (rock hyraxes). We took the cable car down while ‘We drove to the but the sea was murky and rough. We weren’t the sun set. We had delicious chicken enchiladas beautiful Kirstenbosch able to swim to Cape Point, so we snorkelled at for dinner before a quick trip briefing. Fun fact: Botanical Gardens the beach. The water was so murky we could the clouds that cover Table Mountain are known not see any shy sharks or anything really (except as ‘the tablecloth’. where we got to see for a starfish, which I held). We saw a single seal many of the species we by the rock, observing us. We went out for food Day Two - Tara earlier learnt about.’ after snorkelling with no success. I ate Korean.

We had a lovely breakfast before heading off to We had lessons on shy sharks from an American meet Wendy, a knowledgeable botany expert and man. Murphy the dog was there with us the whole time. He was teacher. She gave us a tour of her garden, which was filled with a loved. We stopped at the supermarket and went back. Nice, long, huge range of plant species. She then gave us an introduction to tiring day. I made everyone do dead ant in the sand. Not very the fynbos biome and the different plant families and species found popular. Quote of the day: ‘Bananas just taste like panic.’ (Flora) within it. Part of the lesson involved me having to display a rather fetching outfit. We drove to the beautiful Kirstenbosch Botanical Day Five - Holly Gardens where we got to see many of the species we earlier learnt Today we left Cathy’s place and had 90 minutes of driving which about. We went on a walk up the mountain to see some stunning felt shorter thanks to our collective playlist (thanks, Theo, for the waterfalls and learnt many cool facts from Wendy along the way. screaming music) and our snack supplies. Because of some road We ended up not going to the castle so we could enjoy more time blockages we took a detour and headed straight to a talk from in the gardens. We returned to the guesthouse and after dinner we Marine Dynamics about white sharks. Morph stole the show with ended the day with a slightly competitive games night. Fun fact: all his knowledge, and I just wanted to talk about orcas. We also many fynbos plants wear ‘lipstick’, which is a layer of red pigment on the edges of leaves that protects them from UV rays.

Day Three - Theo Today was a day of wonderful experiences. We began by visiting the South African Museum in Cape Town. We all enjoyed discovering many facts and species we had not previously known. For me, the dinosaurs were the most interesting section. After that we went to the V&A Waterfront and shopping centre. Great lunch. Many of us bought gifts for friends and family or souvenirs. There was also a lovely indoor market with homemade clothes and jewellery. We went to the Two Oceans Aquarium where we received an amazing behind-the-scenes tour of turtle rescue and conservation. Our free time around the aquarium revolved around sharks, penguins and 128

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met Trevor, a lovely dog on a weight-loss mission. We visited some penguins, where I got jump-scared by Mr Ram in a penguin suit. We held penguins as they were being fed and learned about the Love-Island-esque actions of Sandy, a penguin who stole her blind friend’s mate twice. The scandal. We were lucky enough to hear Pinky’s story over cake.

my observational skills in the time (four hours) I spent in the Party Bus and I realised that the windows on the right hand side of the car were more stained than the ones on the left.

Another observation I made was that Aileen was a master of sarcasm, because when I told her about the car windows she deadpanned, ‘Wow. Nice observation.’ A lot of things we Day Six - Aileen Long day travelling. We were practically in the Party Bus for most experienced and saw today felt surreal to me. For example, I never expected to see giraffes so up-close of the day. I’m glad the weather was nicer in the first day at the game reserve. I also Plett compared to the other places we’d been ‘We also encountered on never expected to see more than ten people (a lot warmer than I expected, though!). Being a lot of beautiful flora faceplanting on command before going on team leader came much as a surprise because it was only announced during breakfast, so and birdlife alongside this trip. I learnt a lot of things today: 1) Male ostriches are darker in colour. 2) My name I was unprepared (not that I could’ve done some dassies (rock in South Africa is pronounced AH-nnika. 3) anything about it). Soon after, we hopped onto hyraxes).’

Plants that giraffes feed on release a toxin the bus and started our 5–6-hour journey. We that makes leaves poisonous, so giraffes have saw elephants on the way, and some birds.

Fun fact: an elephant’s trunk can hold 2.5 gallons of water. We learnt to skip trees or eat trees downwind of each other. 4) stopped for a short break at a gas station, and most of us had It’s so fun to abuse your power as a team leader and seize the some roosterkoek. Tiaan recommended the bacon, cheese and moment, because there will never be another day I get to make jam, but I chose steak, egg and peppercorn sauce instead. It people mimic dead ants (still moving?) without consequences. was quite nice but probably was not the best idea (it was quite messy…). We went to a sightseeing point and the beach as well.

Looking at the motion of the waves was very satisfying and probably one of the best moments of the trip. We played some games after chocolate taste-testing.

Day Seven - Matthew Gang, here’s what we did. Yo! First, the mandem and I went on a boat trip. We saw whales, dolphins and seals. After that we went on a long walk and explored a cave (after me nearly decapitating myself), followed by the beach – amazing! Theo and I became Alexander Arnold scaling rocks, fleeing danger (the tide). We went to the raptor rescue, seeing Mark and birds. The live demo was so cool; the owl nearly chipped my head! Then we fed the crow (Mr Ram was a bit jumpy).

Day Eight - Annika Half of today was spent travelling in the Party Bus. It was relaxing and more fun than I expected because I spent like an hour having a deep conversation with Uliana and Ms Budden, and the scenery outside the car window was really pretty. I also increased CANTUARIAN | 2025

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Day Nine - Flora Wow! What an incredible day! We started off at 8am with birdringing. Mark ringed them and took measurements and then we got to release them, which was amazing! Then Mark surprised us with a game drive to go and see meercats – Miss Rooms seemed especially excited! We all got a close-up view, especially Morph, Tara and I, who got within 10cm. They were the most adorable animals! On our return, we had a delicious lunch followed by telemetry training (learning to track cheetahs). In the afternoon we went for a game drive. It was incredible: we managed to see a mountain hare, kudu, wildebeest and got close up to Orion, Roam’s resident cheetah. He had just finished eating a kill and was lying down on the horizon. In groups of three, with Mark and Danwell, we walked up to him, and got within 12 metres. It was so cool! On the way back, after stopping for a drink, Holly sat on the front of the car on a small seat, surviving all the lumps and bumps of the track. Right at the end of the drive, we got so close to some water buffalo that we could smell them, and Holly got within 10cm of a bull! We were all so terrified, but she loved it, saying it was the best thing that had ever happened to her - a key memory made and a perfect day.

Day Ten - Morph We started the day off with scrambled eggs on toast with bacon.

We went out to trap birds and rodents. We used a mixture of oats and peanut butter for the rodent traps and maggots for the bird Day Eleven - Uliana traps because even the seed-eating birds need their protein from Departure Day. We began our delightful day by attempting to insects. We ended up with only a four-striped field mouse, which watch the sunrise. A bit late as always, I botched my time-lapse was very cute, but we did not tag it. We then went on a game drive attempt. Naturally, this was followed by some deep philosophical where we had a competition to see who could find the largest chats about death and other jolly things, before succumbing acacia thorn and we saw a herd of zebra and eland, two giraffes, to the frantic frenzy of packing. My dorm strolled into breakfast the buffalo herd we saw the night before and an ostrich. On the a fashionable 15 minutes late, despite our way back to the lodge we picked up the trail early start, and a sense of dread crept in as cameras we left at the meerkat den, while Mark ‘A lot of things we our departure from the reserve loomed and I got the two we left at the watering hole. On the experienced and saw announced my leadership. Aboard the Party Bus, cameras, we saw a variety of birds, an elephant today felt surreal to me. we bid adieu to a herd of springboks and the shrew, yellow mongoose and an eland by the giraffe family who had greeted us on our Game watering hole. Later in the evening we had dinner For example, I never and a photo competition with the categories of expected to see giraffes so Reserve adventure. While we rolled away from Roam forever, the broken window and a woefully Flora, Fauna, Artistic, Landscape, Friends, Funny up-close on the first day deceased owl spotted by Mr Ram echoed our and Secret (Mr Ram). After that, we were given at the game reserve.’ sorrow, while we raised our spirits with nostalgic certificates for our course and the teachers singalongs and Tiaan’s ostentatious King’s hat. A handed out awards like ‘best fun facts’. Then we swift coffee and bathroom break, where we were reunited with had pudding around the fire and talked about our favourite parts the Discover Eden crew, saw us confronted by some perplexing of the trip. Finally, we watched the Euro finals, England vs Spain. goat-sheep, and then we journeyed through magnificent fields and Spain won and we all went to bed. mountain ranges, unknowingly followed by Elton, finally reaching the long-missed sea and, soon after, the airport.

After a tearful farewell to Tiaan, Ms Budden’s near-death chair experience and Annika’s missing plane ticket fiasco, we boarded our flight to Johannesburg. There we navigated a sprawling airport with limited food options but impressive shops. We bid another fond farewell to Mr Ram, who eagerly reunited with his dogs that evening, and will reunite with Tiaan at some later point in time. But the journey didn’t end there. Following yet ANOTHER misplaced boarding pass by Annika (who clearly had no intention of leaving), we embarked on our ten-hour flight. I indulged in a delightful biopic, Priscilla (I highly recommend), and a lovely nap, rudely interrupted by Annika. Meanwhile, some others endured a more restless and dinnerless journey. After navigating long queues and customs, we were finally free to roam the big, wide world. Our grand adventure concluded in London, where we each scurried off in different directions to chase our own summer escapades. 130

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‘We went to the Two Oceans Aquarium where we received an amazing behind-the-scenes tour of turtle rescue and conservation. Our free time around the aquarium revolved around sharks, penguins and jellyfish.’

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corfu Literary festival

by Honor Fox (6b, WL)

H ‘It was midSeptember and Stephen Fry sat in a small corner at the back of the shop, with a few others helping him, including Al Preston (6b, LN) and me.’

undreds of Corfiots and English alike were Acropolis Museum in Athens. He also discussed queuing outside a small bookshop on a why so many people become defensive of the steep street in the old town of Corfu. It history they know to be true when it is challenged was pouring with hot afternoon rain and thunder by modern perspectives. shook the cobbled streets. It was mid-September and Stephen Fry sat in a small corner at the back of The warm sea seemed to sparkle when Al and I the shop, with a few others helping him, including took a refreshing dip the next morning off some Al Preston (6b, LN) and me. We were taking photos stone steps leading into the water. Greeks chatted and waiting while Stephen signed book after book, over their morning coffees while we swam, then engaging each person in easy conversation about we strolled through the town to our lunch spot all manner of topics: mythology, their families, of the day. It was warm and sunny, in contrast and how they came to be in Corfu. The signing to the tropical storm of yesterday, and while we seemed to go on for hours and we got back to prepared for the events of that night we could our hotel with half an hour to spare, to get ready hear the sounds of the old town around us, from for dinner and the events of the the restaurants below to the busy evening. Later on, in the salty heat streets. We were setting up chairs of the island, Al and I were setting outside a temple structure within ‘Sebastian Faulks up chairs in a small church, ready the old Venetian fortress, built spoke first that for Sarah Churchwell to speak on in the 14th Century. Dusk was night, on the place of falling quickly, and we rushed the American election. science in fiction, and to get everything ready for the While we were offering drinks audience who had begun to the importance of to the audience who had begun arrive. experiencing events to trickle in early, we met David Olusuga, author of Black and yourself as an author.’ Historical novelist Sebastian British, who was also due to speak Faulks spoke first that night, on that evening on the importance the place of science in fiction, and of truth in history, and why challenging accepted the importance of experiencing events yourself as stories makes people uncomfortable. Sarah’s talk an author, so that small details that help to paint soon began, and the church was packed, people a bigger picture of events are not missed. It was spilling out of the main hall into rooms behind. dark when Stephen Fry began his talk, and light She spoke a little about her book, The Wrath to exuding from the temple illuminated Stephen Come, which discusses the historical narratives and the front rows of the audience. The sound of presented in American literature, specifically crickets and the distant town were all that could in Gone with the Wind, before moving onto the be heard, and I could see the birds swooping American election, and discussing the deep- down on the ocean beneath the fortress when rooted reasons behind the decisions of voters Stephen began his talk. He read a passage from on both sides. I spoke to her after the talk and The Odyssey, in which Odysseus is washed up on asked why Kamala Harris is so often referred to the island of Corcyra, or Corfu, and spoke about by her first name while Donald Trump is invariably how he found he could be good at whatever he referred to by his surname, to which she gave a liked so long as he could write and tell stories. fascinating response about the techniques used He discussed how one could be a master of both

by Harris’ campaign to personalise her, while also music and art through the spoken word. After citing subconscious misogyny which delegitimizes dinner that night, we went to bed and woke up her as a candidate. David Olusuga spoke after the next morning to fly back to England. I took Sarah and gave a unique insight into the rewriting from this trip some fascinating conversations with and correction of historical narratives, discussing the authors over dinner, and a love for the island too the Elgin Marbles and their return to the of Corfu and its rich literary history.

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Duke of Edinburgh Duke of Edinburgh Gold Expedition

by Julia Wu (6b, BR)

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he Peak District expedition was by no means an easy feat, but it was certainly a memorable experience. Personally, I had never done any expeditions ‘The stunning of the sort before, so it was a fresh views on the experience.

mountain tops

The stunning views on the mountain and the rush of tops and the rush of adrenaline made adrenaline made the strenuous hike worth it every time. the strenuous Being phone-free was surprisingly hike worth it refreshing, enabling our small team every time.’ to bond hours upon hours from collaboration and teamwork during the hike and our downtime alike. We shared those feelings of success together when we reached each milestone, looking back in awe at the great distance we had covered.

Ultimately, even though it was one of the toughest physical trials I have experienced, I’m grateful for the challenge and the support my teammates provided me in the toughest times.

‘We shared those feelings of success together when we reached each milestone, looking back in awe at the great distance we had covered.’

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Running wild

by Sofia Blinston-Jones (5th, KD)

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ast year, my year group had the opportunity to be the first to participate in Running Wild — a unique activity that combines adventure, responsibility, and the thrill of navigating for ourselves. This year we were set the task of running around London on our own. Rather than sticking to the usual format, we were given the freedom to explore the city with a twist: we played Monopoly in Real Life. Armed with day travel cards, we were set loose in small groups to travel across the city, ‘We were given the managing our own transport and itinerary. What made this freedom to explore trip truly special was the trust our teachers showed in us.

the city with a twist: we played Monopoly in Real Life.’

They gave us the responsibility to explore independently, allowing us to navigate the city, make decisions, and stay on task without their supervision. We weren’t just given a map and told where to go — we had to manage our own time and choices, all while being responsible for our group.

Every hour we checked in through group chat, updating our teachers on our location and progress. This was a perfect combination of independence and responsibility.

Instead of just wandering around and shopping (which, let’s be honest, was tempting!), we had to follow clues and complete tasks related to the game, which took us all over the city. The experience taught us a lot about teamwork, planning, and being responsible for our actions in an unfamiliar setting. ‘I haven’t been to London while having to navigate before but at the end of the trip I could now comfortably use the tube,’ said Camilla Balcomb (5ths, LX). CANTUARIAN | 2025

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Linacre House Reunion 2024 136

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The

King’s

Association

Molly Burgess, Engagement Manager, shines a light on the OKS and The King’s Association.

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hen 170 OKS came together earlier this year at the House of Commons, many hadn’t seen each other for decades. Some had travelled from as far away as Portugal ‘It’s not the grand and California to be there. Yet the architecture that moment they arrived, the laughter, connects them; stories and shared sense of belonging it’s a feeling made it clear: the King’s community is timeless. It’s not the grand architecture of being part that connects them; it’s a feeling of of something being part of something bigger. bigger.’

This spirit is at the heart of King’s.

Our School is much more than bricks and mortar. It is a lifelong community that grows, connects, and supports its members well beyond their time within the Precincts.

OKS President’s Dinner 2025

At the heart of this community is the Development Office. Our role is to help maintain and strengthen the bonds between the School, its former pupils (OKS), and its extended network (staff, parents, governors and supporters, past and present). We look after two communities – the OKS Association and the King’s Association.

Think of us as dedicated champions of the King’s spirit.

The OKS Association now includes over 12,700 members around the world, with hotspots in the UK, Hong Kong, the USA and beyond. Throughout the year, we hold a variety of events for OKS to reconnect with each other and the School. From house

‘The OKS Association now includes over 12,700 members around the world, with hotspots in the UK, Hong Kong, the USA and beyond.’

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‘In 2024 we established the King’s Association, a new umbrella organisation uniting current and former pupils, parents, and staff.’

Former Captain of School dinner

reunions to the infamous OKS Christmas Drinks, our events often attract up to 150 OKS and former staff, and are filled with a strong sense of connection and enduring pride in King’s. One attendee described the President’s Dinner as like being ‘transported back to King’s, not by the buildings, but by how I felt.’

To serve our extended network, in 2024 we established the King’s Association, a new umbrella organisation uniting current and former pupils, parents, and staff. Events are networking- and activity-based, including the popular annual King’s Association quiz, wine tasting and sector-focused breakfast networking. But it’s about more than just events – being part of the OKS or King’s Association means joining a mutually supportive network built on shared experiences.

Our new interactive website, the King’s Association, is a testament to the power of a King’s connection. Launched in September 2024, our website has rapidly grown to over 2,000 online members. On the website, you can log in, connect with other users and send mentoring requests.

When I introduce 6a pupils to the website, I always tell them that wherever they go in the world there will be an OKS or parent nearby who is happy to help, whether with careers advice or simply to grab a coffee. The website is a fantastic place to spark these conversations and expand your network.

King’s Association Quiz Night winners

‘Being part of the OKS or King’s Association means joining a mutually supportive network built on shared experiences.’

Whether it’s through reunions, professional networking, communications, or fundraising for bursaries and other key projects, everything we do is about connection, making sure that the spirit of King’s lives on and evolves with every generation.

No matter where life takes you, a connection to King’s is lifelong. We’d love you to be part of it. Visit our website to find out more: kings-association.co.uk or email community@ kings-school.co.uk. 138

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Networking panellists

Charter Awards Bryony Dutta, Head of Development, shares an update on the new bursary campaign at King’s.

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wo years ago this Autumn at Mansion House, we officially launched a new transformational bursary campaign at King’s, the Charter Awards. Its mission is to increase our Endowment Fund sufficiently to support 50 free places at the School, forever.

The response so far has been overwhelming.

From donating deposits and sponsoring stones to attending events and of course making donations, your support has been remarkable, and we couldn’t be more grateful. It is truly a testament to the power of the King’s community and gives us confidence in this endeavour as we stride forward.

Rooted in our history, the Awards reinforce the inclusive and aspirational nature of King’s, where success is a product of ability, To build on this powerful start, there is a huge belief, hard work and determination, and amount of activity planned for the next few not of social or economic background, and years. This includes our first ‘King’s Calling’ where every individual is Telephone Campaign in over able to flourish as part of a decade; the relaunch of the whole.

‘Rooted in our history, the King’s Ball; and plans for our first ever King’s Giving the Awards reinforce Since the Charter Awards Day. Throughout, there will the inclusive and came into being, there has be ample opportunity to aspirational nature of get involved, so if you have been a period of significant momentum in the giving any questions or comments, King’s.’ and engagement of the please do not hesitate to get King’s community. As an in touch. We would love to Office, our aim is to bring all our audiences hear from you! Thank you. together – whether OKS, current or past parents, pupils and friends – to generate The Development Office funds for these transformational Awards and The Old Grange, The King’s School to raise awareness about why they matter. community@kings-school.co.uk 01227 595613

‘I, like many of you, am deeply proud of King’s, and acknowledge the very special contribution King’s made in my school years.

I hope we can offer this opportunity to others who might not have had the chances we did and, in doing so, benefit not just those children, but build an even stronger King’s community.’ Baroness Kate Fall MBE (WL 1983 – 1985): Founding Chair, Charter Awards Campaign Group. 

The Mansion House Charter Awards Launch, hosted by Nick and Felicity Lyons (OKS and past parents).

‘From donating deposits and sponsoring stones to attending events and of course making donations, your support has been remarkable, and we couldn’t be more grateful.’

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Friends For

Life

T

hese two OKS met in 1953 when new boy Christopher Bayston joined the Grange, where Roger Lawrence was Head Monitor.

Christopher was an ex-chorister and Roger was a leading tenor in the choir and principal oboe in the orchestra, so both were involved in School Music, including the newly formed Madrigal Society, started not by the Music Department but by a Latin master, John Waddell. Christopher and Roger both became teachers – Christopher as Choral Director at Eton and Roger as Director of Music at Felsted.

They met again when Christopher retired to Essex, and became Organist of the marvellous Thaxted Church, where Roger would frequently ‘Dep’ in his choir. This photograph records Christopher’s last service as Organist at Thaxted, a service at which Roger sang.

40

Tom Ransely

th

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Happy 40th Birthday to Olympic Rower Tom Ransley OKS (MR, 99-04) who was born in Ashford, Kent, in 1985.

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Malaise to

Momentum Building a More Productive Britain

We asked Matthew Key, our new Deputy Head Academic, to write about any political issue that sprang to mind.

His response shows he knows the world beyond King’s inside out, and understands the bigger picture.

P

icture the commute from Birmingham to London: a hundred-odd miles, a little under an hour and a half on today’s trains. HS2, if it ever reaches the capital, will trim that to about 45 minutes – a gain of half an hour at staggering cost.

Now look East. In the time a British train rattles to London, China’s bullet network has sped halfway down the 800-mile stretch from Beijing to Shanghai, one line in a high-speed network that spans more than 26,000 miles. Britain trims minutes; China reshapes the continent. The contrast is a window into something deeper. Why, in the land of the Industrial Revolution, does it take a decade to build a tunnel? Welcome to Britain’s productivity puzzle – a tale of stalled momentum, institutional caution and an economy stuck in the sidings.

The UK economy shrank again this month, a second straight contraction. Rachel Reeves, who recently wept in the Commons, could muster only a weary ‘disappointing’. The truth is Britain now lags not only behind productivity giants like Germany, the US and South Korea, powered by cars, micro-chips and clean energy, but also behind countries that once looked to us for inspiration.

Portugal and Slovenia, once shorthand (in British minds) for custard tarts and Alpine polka, are quietly leaving us in the dust. This isn’t new. Since 2011, productivity ‘The UK has limped along at just 0.6% a year, less a march a shuffle. The gap with the US yawns at economy than 35%, Sweden streaks 16% ahead, and even the shrank again famously holiday-happy French outproduce us this month, a by 13%, all while taking August off.

second straight contraction.’

Much ink has been spilled over the causes of Britain’s productivity lethargy, with one leading theory pointing to the country’s failure to engineer what economists call the ‘reverse Lewis shift’. Far from a complex parallel-parking manoeuvre, this idea suggests that Britain’s woes stem from its inability to move workers from lower-productivity service jobs into higher-productivity sectors like advanced manufacturing. But here’s the rub: further analysis of the UK’s per-worker productivity gap paints a more sobering picture. Even if we could wave a magic wand and conjure up a high-tech manufacturing powerhouse to rival Germany’s, the 142

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overall productivity gain might be minimal. Why? Because the workers most likely to shift into these gleaming new factories are already employed in some of the UK’s most productive service sectors – finance, tech, and communications. In other words, it’s not just about building shiny new industries, but about figuring out how to boost productivity across the vast, lower-performing swathes of the economy.

Britain’s economic lassitude is also compounded by its remarkably anaemic investment rates. As Figure 1 shows, Britain ranks third from the bottom in the OECD table – less economic powerhouse, more enthusiastic spectator.

While low housing investment plays a role, it is corporate and infrastructure spending that truly drives productivity, and there Britain underwhelms.

While other nations slip the surly bonds of bureaucratic caution and double down on AI, green energy, and new battery technologies, the UK devotes just 1.7% of GDP to research and Figure 1: OECD ‘Investment by sector (gross fixed capital formation by sector)’ development, significantly below the EU average of 2.1%, and a pale shadow of Sweden’s investment, which is nearly twice as high.

So, how do we move from malaise to momentum?

The real question isn’t what needs to be done, but why it hasn’t been. For over two decades, we’ve circled the same policy debates, diagnosing symptoms without confronting the underlying dysfunction: a political culture structurally incapable of delivering long-term change. The problem isn’t a lack of ideas; it’s a system that rewards caution, punishes risk, and struggles to look beyond the next election.

‘Even if we could wave a magic wand and conjure up a high-tech manufacturing powerhouse to rival Germany’s, the overall productivity gain might be minimal.’

This is not a question of better analysis or sharper economics; it’s about redesigning the machinery of government to act with purpose, discipline, and ambition. If I had the Prime Minister’s ear, I would offer the following not as a wish list, but as the spine of a serious twenty-year strategy: 1. Redefine the challenge; 2. Build state and regional capacit;, 3.

Invest like it matters; 4. Get serious about skills and automation; 5. Reform planning to unlock growth.

Each step is essential. Taken together, they would begin to shift Britain from a country stuck in neutral to one moving forward with confidence.

So, why hasn’t it happened? Because it demands something British politics has consistently failed to supply – long-term thinking. It would require breaking the tyranny of the electoral cycle, resisting short-term fixes and building a strategic, coordinated national effort that lasts longer than a ministerial reshuffle. That includes a smarter kind of decentralisation – not a handover of purpose, but a transfer of power over delivery. Regional leaders are often better placed to act; the centre should set the destination but let others drive. The goal is not fragmentation, but capability – local actors implementing national priorities with urgency and precision. We’ve done it before, during the post-war decades when national ambition and local delivery worked in tandem, underpinned by a shared sense of purpose and a political consensus that lasted a generation. The crisis is different, but the moment demands the same seriousness.

1 Redefine the challenge Too often productivity is treated as a technical concept, something for economists to discuss in dry language and for policymakers to half-ignore. But it is, at heart, the measure of whether a country is functioning properly. Higher productivity means better pay, more reliable public services, stronger public finances and, in the end, a greater sense of national confidence. This isn’t just about catching up with Germany or matching Sweden’s output per hour.

It’s about whether we still have the capacity to build things, to solve problems, and to improve everyday life. To do that, we need ‘Higher productivity to move away from a means better pay, more politics that defaults to reliable public services, caution and constraint, and start thinking stronger public seriously about ambition, finances and, in the investment and national end, a greater sense of purpose. Reframing the national confidence.’ conversation in this way could be the beginning of something bigger – a long-overdue sense of direction, a restoration of democratic confidence, and a more honest, healthy kind of pride in what Britain can still achieve.

2 Build state and regional capacity You cannot have a productive economy if the state cannot deliver. HS2 is not just about spiralling costs but about institutional failure – endless consultations, overlapping agencies, shifting priorities and weak accountability. Britain needs to relearn how to plan, decide and execute. A national delivery body, independent yet answerable to Parliament, could lift long-term projects out of short-term politics.

Innovation also needs sharper tools. The US has DARPA, which has backed bold bets that produced the internet and autonomous vehicles. The UK’s ARIA is a start, but it is underpowered, underfunded and disconnected from strategy. What is needed is not a single maverick agency but a cultural shift, a government that values risk, funds experiments and sustains investment even when politics change.

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predictable funding. Germany’s Länder show how strong national direction can combine with regional intelligence. Britain’s metro mayors could do the same if given the tools, powers and budgets to act rather than bid for scraps.

3 Invest like it matters Investment is not a luxury. It is the foundation on which productivity is built. The UK’s current levels of public and private investment are too low, too short-term and too risk-averse. A national commitment to invest 3% of GDP in infrastructure, innovation and green technologies over the next decade would be a start. That must be matched by reforming how we support private capital, scaling up the British Business Bank, and giving long-term patient investors better reasons to stay and grow here. We need to back sectors where the UK has potential strength, from clean energy and battery tech to AI and life sciences, and we need to stop assuming this will happen on its own.

4 Get serious about skills and automation Britain’s flexible labour market has helped keep unemployment low, but it also makes it easy for businesses to avoid modernising.

When labour is cheap and abundant, there is little reason to invest in automation, training or technology. Ironically, it’s these sectors most in need of modernisation, like logistics, care, and hospitality, that often remain stuck in low-pay, low-productivity cycles. And yet these are the sectors least likely to benefit from the current structure of our incentives. The government should support automation in these areas through tax incentives and simplified grants for small businesses. At the same time, we need better technical education and more targeted skills programmes, tied directly to regional needs and employer demand. The apprenticeship levy is not working. It is too rigid, too underused, too skewed towards higher levels and too mired in bureaucracy. It needs reform if it is to unlock the skills of the future.

5 Reform planning to unlock growth This may be the toughest challenge of all. Britain cannot fix its housing crisis, build infrastructure or support a mobile workforce without planning reform. Too many good projects are strangled by delay, bureaucracy and nimbyism. The system gives endless power to block and little support to build. The Cambridge–Oxford Arc shows the cost. Home to world-class universities, housing demand and huge economic potential, it could have been a globally competitive science corridor. Instead, it was shelved after vocal local opposition, muddled government messaging and political hesitation. The price? Up to £250 billion in lost output by 2050 and thousands of high-skilled jobs. This is the kind of national growth opportunity Britain keeps throwing away. Reform must mean zoning in high-demand areas, faster approvals for major infrastructure and a smarter approach to community consent. Places that say yes should be rewarded, not punished. Most people want new homes, better transport and more jobs. The problem is that the loudest voices are the ones saying no. That balance must change.

And what of AI? As I have explored above, Britain’s failure to become a high-investment, high-delivery economy is well documented but the emergence of generative AI, machine-learning, and the tantalising horizon of Artificial General Intelligence, presents both a great leap forward and a mirror to our existing weaknesses. Like the railways and power grids of the past, AI could be the engine that drives a new wave of productivity. But it also sharpens the urgency of the reforms already discussed: serious investment, effective institutions, regional empowerment, and a clear-eyed approach to skills and automation.

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In the late 1980s, Nobel laureate Robert Solow remarked: ‘You can see the computer age everywhere but in the productivity statistics.’ The socalled Solow Paradox captured a genuine puzzle: why were dramatic advances in computing not showing up in economic performance?

The puzzle did not last. By the late 1990s, UK productivity had risen by nearly a fifth, driven by the dot-com boom, the spread of the internet, and the cultural moment of New Labour, Cool Britannia and the Spice Girls.

We may be at a similar turning point today. Earlier this year the IMF projected that AI could lift UK productivity by between 0.9 and 1.5 per cent annually, citing digital infrastructure, skilled labour, an active innovation ecosystem and a responsive regulatory climate. Yet this is a possibility, not a promise. AI is no deus ex machina, and it will not deliver growth while we sit back in passive welcome to our new robot overlords. The real question is whether our politics, institutions and society are ready to harness its gains and to share them fairly.

Behind the upbeat economic mood music around AI lies a starker truth: nearly a quarter of UK jobs are ‘highly exposed’, meaning a sharp drop in demand is not just possible but probable. This is not some abstract reshuffle of sectors. It is a human rupture that risks severing people from livelihoods, identities and communities. Even in the United States, where market faith usually trumps state intervention, the unease is creeping in. As MAGA darling and Fox firebrand Tucker Carlson noted in conversation with right-wing wunderkind

‘While low housing investment plays a role, it is corporate and infrastructure spending that truly drives productivity, and there Britain underwhelms.’

Ben Shapiro, driving is the most common job for planning and delivery, AI will not save us. It will only high-school-educated men. Replace drivers with expose how little we have prepared. machines and you do not just upend an industry; you strip away a source of identity and stability for Britain’s productivity problem is not insurmountable. millions of working-class Americans. The striking But it will not be solved by tinkering. It demands thing was not the provocation but a reckoning with the political the agreement. Two men usually culture that has normalised drift, allergic to government action and delay and short-termism. For too ‘Earlier this year wedded to free-market orthodoxy long, choices have been shaped the IMF projected conceded the same point: AI, left by electoral cycles, by caution to itself, could hollow out the masquerading as prudence, and by that AI could lift UK dignity of work for those already productivity by between an unwillingness to think beyond on the margins. the immediate. The task is clear: 0.9 and 1.5 per cent strengthen institutions, give local annually.’

So, we are left in an uneasy space: leaders the tools to act, and invest the promise of productivity gains with the seriousness the challenge on one hand and the risk of deserves. Above all, we must dislocation on the other. This is a modern Solow shake off the fatalism that claims ambitious national Paradox. The question is no longer whether AI can projects are beyond us. The obstacle is not ideas boost productivity, but whether we can shape its but staying power. Until politics stops rewarding impact to strengthen rather than fracture the social the quick fix and punishing the long view, we will contract. AI is not an anodyne cure for Britain’s remain stuck. Rebuilding Britain’s capacity to deliver productivity malaise. It is a pressure point that will will require not just reform but a change in how test our political seriousness. Unless we tackle the we govern, and in what we demand of those who structural weaknesses that hold back investment, govern us.

‘Until politics stops rewarding the quick fix and punishing the long view, we will remain stuck.’

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Food Miles

Amanda Ursell read Nutrition at King’s College, London, and has a post-graduate Diploma in Dietetics, and the Associateship of King’s College. She is a Fellow of The Royal Society of Public Health. Winner of the 2019 Health and Vitality Special Achievement Honours and the HFMA Health Writer of The Year Award, she has been voted the most influential health professional in the UK, twice.

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‘However hard we try to relate to the consequences of climate change, droughts, floods and forest fires, they can still seem so ‘over there’, so someone else’s problem.’

FACT Average daily CO2e production from food is six kilos but this varies from 50 kilos per person per day in the United States to two kilos in most African countries.

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ur climate is changing. It has these gases trap heat, cause the planet to something to do with carbon, warm and extreme weather to brew. Of the pollution and ozone, right? But 24 kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalents let’s be honest, what are we supposed to the average person is responsible for do about it? Never fly again? Tell relatives producing each day, a quarter are generated to dump the 4 x 4? It’s one of the problems from within the food chain from farm to with climate change – how fork, to bin. They are as individuals we can make produced, for example, ‘But there is something a difference, especially by machinery clearing if big decisions about we can do, and it doesn’t land on which crops like modes of transportation, wheat, rice and soya are involve planes, cars or for instance, may not grown, and by lorries direct activism, like be in our hands: this, delivering these crops throwing soup at the and that however hard to factories and during we try to relate to the the processing of them Mona Lisa.’ consequences of climate into feed for livestock change, droughts, floods or ingredients to make and forest fires, they can still seem so ‘over products, from pizzas and yoghurts to there’, so someone else’s problem. cakes and biscuits. Greenhouse gases are also produced in the making of packaging The easiest way to save the planet and the marketing and advertising of food, But there is something we can do, and during food transportation to warehouses it doesn’t involve planes, cars or direct and supermarkets, by fridges and freezers in activism, like throwing soup at the Mona shops and homes, schools and restaurants Lisa. American novelist Jonathan Safran in which food is stored, and by ovens in Foer gives us a clue what this ‘something’ which they are cooked. Greenhouse gases may be, in the title of his book We Are are created too in the disposal of packaging the Weather: Saving the Planet Begins and wasted food. at Breakfast. Susan Bridle, Professor of Astrophysics at Manchester University, Porridge or eggs? leaves us in no doubt on the cover of her To limit global warming, experts concluded book Food and Climate Change, in its in the 2015 Paris Agreement that we subtitle: ‘Change your diet: the easiest way need to halve our total greenhouse gas to help save the planet’. emissions by 2030. In other words, to bring our current six kilos from food each day to How food choices affect the weather three. This a huge ask in our contemporary As we know, in a nutshell, there are too food environment and, for most of us, many ‘greenhouse gases’ like carbon sticking with 6 kilos is a challenge. dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide in the Earth’s atmosphere. Expressed as carbon Perhaps we can draw inspiration to rise to dioxide equivalents, or ‘CO2e’ for short, this goal, from Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu,

who in the 6th Century BCE expressed the idea that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Let’s start by taking the example of porridge or eggs. Which is better for lowering greenhouse gas emissions? The answer is it all depends. A boiled egg provides 377g CO2e. Frying it increases this to 759g and scrambling with butter and cream to 1,174g.

A bowl of porridge made with water, on the other hand, contributes 110g CO2e. Make it with milk, however, and its footprint increases to 800g. As a dietitian, I would advise the latter, since milk is packed with protein and bone-building calcium. I realise, though, 800g of CO2e makes a significant dent in a day’s six-kilo target, let alone any aspirations to go lower.

We can reduce this in two ways: opting for fiftyfifty milk and water, or switching to soya milk. It’s fortified with calcium and delivers the same amount of protein as dairy milk (oat, rice and coconut versions have virtually none), thus retaining all the nutrition but halving the carbon footprint. If we take a main course like spaghetti Bolognese, Susan Bridle reveals that a portion made with minced beef is responsible for six kilos of CO2e’s. Made with chicken mince, this falls to two kilos, or with lentils to below one kilo.

Mike Berners Le, a Professor in Practice at Lancaster University, helps us understand the CO2e impact of everyday life in his book, How Bad are Bananas? The Carbon Footprint of Everything. Here’s a taster: Activity

Grams CO2e

Garden-grown apple

0.0g

½ litre (1 pint) tap water

0.2g

Single text message

0.8g

5-minute web browse

8.0g

Email taking 10 minutes to write

17.0g

Local and seasonal apple

32.0g

Boiling a litre of water for tea

40.0g

Banana shipped from Caribbean

70.0g

125g locally grown strawberries in season

125.0g

5-minute shower

160.0g

Piece of chocolate cake

300.0g

1 x laundry load at 30oc dried outside

330.0g

1 litre of bottled mineral water transported 600 miles

480.0g

Chickpea tikka masala

604.0g

125g strawberries flown in from South Africa

1820.0g

1 x laundry load at 40oc dried in tumble dryer

2000.0g

Lamb tikka masala

6000.0g

Going vegan There’s a pattern here. Plant foods have a lighter carbon footprint than animal-based counterparts, which begs the question: should we all ‘go vegan’?

For most of us, reducing rather than banning all animal products is likely a more realistic ambition.

nutritional pitfalls. A regular supplement of vitamin B12 is crucial to avoid irreversible nerve damage.

Iron, found in meat and eggs in the omnivorous diet must be replaced, not least because nearly a third of 11- to 18-year-old girls in the UK already consume worrying ‘Experts concluded low intakes of this mineral, which in the 2015 Paris can lead to extreme tiredness, Agreement that we poor concentration, low mood and need to halve our weakened academic performance.

Saffron Foer suggests realising this approach by tucking into a plantbased breakfast and lunch and having our usual dinner, which might include meat, fish or poultry.

Alternatively, we can opt for small changes at each meal. If we regularly total greenhouse gas eat eggs, fine, but go for boiled and Are you a high CO2e strawberry? emissions by 2030.’ save scrambled as a treat. If we love From the advice of novelists, spaghetti Bolognese, as Susan Bridle astrophysicists and ancient suggests, how about using half beef, half lentils? philosophers, perhaps to end, it’s worth reflecting on the simple observation English Victorian writer For anyone who does cut all animal foods, Walter De La Mere made in his poem, ‘Miss T’: my advice is proceed with great care to avoid ‘It’s a very odd thing – / As odd as can be – / That whatever Miss T eats / Turns into Miss T.’ So, here’s a question: do we want to turn into a high CO2e strawberry flown from South Africa, or a low CO2e one grown seasonally in Kent? A high-carbonfootprint chunk of chocolate cake, or a low footprint banana? It’s food, as they say, for thought.

‘Plant foods have a lighter carbon footprint than animal-based counterparts, which begs the question: should we all ‘go vegan’?’

References We Are the Weather: Saving the Planet Begins at Breakfast by Jonathan Safran Foer, published

by Hamish Hamilton (£16.99) Food and Climate Change by Susan Bridle, published by Bloomsbury Publishing (£22.99) How Bad are Bananas? by Mike Berners Lee, published by Imprint Books (£24.99) CANTUARIAN | 2025

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Given the sad loss recently of Hilary Mantel (2022) and C J Sansom (2024), and the enormous success of their work on page and screen in the last twenty years, centred on the historical Thomas Cromwell and the fictional Matthew Shardlake, we asked a fine young King’s historian, Luca Sand (6b, CY) to take a look at The Dissolution of the Monasteries.

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he Dissolution of the English Monasteries beginning in 1536 was a momentous event in English history. It was the greatest rearrangement of land ownership in the country since the Norman Conquest of 1066. In the span of a few years, all the land and wealth of the English monasteries, which accounted for around a quarter of all cultivated land in England, had been seized by the Crown. By the end of Henry’s reign in 1547, the selling of these lands to individuals generated over £90,000 every year for the Crown, which was equivalent to the entire royal income. There can be no doubt that the Dissolution of the Monasteries was carried out on a huge scale with an enormous impact. The key debate, however, regards the role of Henry VIII in the destruction of so many monasteries. This has been hotly contested by historians, some emphasising his personal role in the policy, others presenting him as a pawn in the hands of the great Protestant reformers, Thomas Cromwell and Thomas Cranmer. I support the latter view.

Religion is a good place to start since, after all, monasteries are centres of religious worship and observation. In 1536, when the Dissolution began, the English Reformation was well underway.

The grip of Catholicism had never been particularly strong in England, and even since medieval times an unwritten mutual agreement existed between the kings of England and the Pope that neither would embroil themselves in the other’s affairs too much. Henry VIII broke this pattern. Starting in 1530, when the negotiations for his divorce from Catherine of Aragon were stalling, he began issuing decrees to stamp royal authority onto the English clergy. One such example is the Supplication of the Ordinaries in 1532, in which Church Law was to be re-examined and enforced by Royal Commission. Slowly but surely, he went about dismantling the fabric of the Catholic Church in England.

These early measures were largely supported by the humanist scholars Henry surrounded himself with, and anti-clericalism was rife in the English Parliament, which had only a few years before it witnessed the arrogant presence of Thomas Cromwell. Henry’s chief minister from 1515 to 1529 had been a cardinal who hoped to become Pope. He had been unlikable, flamboyant and greedy, seemingly representing the corruption which, in the eyes of many in England, had strangled the Church.

The monasteries came under this same gaze. They possessed extraordinary wealth, but from a purely religious perspective they remained bastions of Catholicism and were viewed as obstacles

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with St. Augustine of Canterbury in 597 AD, and had spread through the country in the millennium after. These were founded with papal support and maintained close ties to Rome. For Henry and the Protestant reformers, Thomas Cromwell and Thomas Cranmer, they had been dismantled in order to consolidate the English Reformation.

Such was the religious motivation for the Dissolution of the Monasteries. The debate truly begins with the question of whether it was Henry or Cromwell who really led the English Reformation, and this requires a look at the English Reformation as a whole. At first glance, it seems that Henry undoubtedly led the process, beginning with the annulment of his marriage to Catherine of Aragon. Every Royal Act had Henry’s support and each action undertaken by the Crown had his approval. As always in history, however, there is more to consider.

I do not believe that Henry’s interest in the English Reformation extended to theological matters. Chronologically, all major acts of Parliament passed between 1530 and 1535 regarded one of three things: the authority of Henry to undo his marriage to Catherine, the economic benefit of the Crown, and his supremacy over the Church’s organisation and administration. None of these include the genuine desire for religious reform. This, I believe, was provided by Cromwell.

Henry’s sneaky minister became the Vice-Gerent of Spirituals in January 1535, a title which ranked Cromwell higher in the new English Church than everyone except Henry, putting him above even the Archbishop of Canterbury. A dedicated Protestant, he used this newfound power rapidly, instituting a range of theological changes to the Church. The seven Catholic sacraments were reduced to three. Transubstantiation, Purgatory, and other Catholic beliefs were sidelined. Pilgrimages were discouraged, which most famously resulted in the destruction of Thomas Becket’s shrine in Canterbury Cathedral. What Henry had demonstrated little interest in doing during

Dissolution

the early years of the English Reformation, Cromwell only stand to gain from the Dissolution. The wealth that did once he had been given the power. Of course, could be seized would hugely benefit Henry’s position, Henry had still given his permission for all of these acts. both within England and internationally. And by Yet even more evidence exists to suggest that he was replacing loyalty to the Pope with loyalty to the Crown, simply allowing Cromwell to address theological issues he could create an England more centralised than ever whilst he himself was unconcerned. Cromwell’s fall and before. execution – a matter for another article – brought an end to his reforming rampage. The remaining Catholics My personal opinion is that the Dissolution of the in the government rallied to undo Cromwell’s religious Monasteries was the product of a marriage of changes, returning the original seven convenience between a theologically sacraments and other Catholic beliefs. focused minister and a shrewd, money‘At first glance, it Henry even married a woman from focused King. Henry was happy to let seems that Henry a devoted Catholic family, Catherine Cromwell off the leash, so to speak, as undoubtedly led the Howard. This apparent relapse in his long as he could reap the benefits of beliefs suggests that he had never process, beginning with economic and political gain. It was an been dedicated to actual Protestant arrangement that saw all 900 religious the annulment of his reforming in the first place. After all, houses in England disbanded and marriage to Catherine of thousands of monks, friars, and nuns since 1521 he had been awarded by Aragon.’ the Pope the title ‘Defender of the displaced. The services provided by Faith’, and on his deathbed in 1547 his these institutions, including education last rites were likely administered by a Catholic priest in and medical care, were in theory taken over as the a Catholic manner. It is hard to believe that the period responsibility of the state, although in many less of Protestant reform from 1535 to 1540 was not the developed areas, such as Yorkshire, the Dissolution of doing of Cromwell, and his constant murmuring in the Monasteries provoked revolt.

Henry’s ear.

Although Henry was present throughout the English This is where the Dissolution of the Monasteries comes Reformation and the Dissolution of the Monasteries, back into focus. Henry and Cromwell clearly agreed that I believe that Cromwell was the driving force behind it had to be done. However, I think that they each had both the theological changes and the action against the differing motivations. We have seen how Cromwell’s Catholic religious order, the latter supported by Henry Protestant beliefs influenced Crown policy in the only to secure great economic and political gain for the 1530s. Henry had vastly different priorities and could Crown.

‘It was an arrangement that saw all 900 religious houses in England disbanded and thousands of monks, friars, and nuns displaced.’

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DEI at King’s

by Ben Mearhart (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Lead)

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he last 12 months have been a growing challenge for the vital work of supporting equity and inclusion for perceived diversity. Indeed, the national and international political climates have contributed in many ways to the space for DEI shrinking and feeling less safe.

a strategic priority

Thankfully these developments have also coincided with King’s enhanced commitment to supporting every body in our community to feel connected, engaged, that they belong and can thrive. No shrinking space here. These strategic values continue to inspire key developments across the school and to cultivate fertile ground for brave conversations, broadening awareness and systemic change.

To bring space, time and reflection to the importance of listening gently, asking helpful questions and seeing how social power shows up in our connections.

priorities in action

pursue legacy projects that advocate, collaborate and educate for gender equity, LGBTQ+, neurodiversity and race & culture across the school community.

roots

September will also see King’s establish the inaugural Roots Futures programme for the Shell pupils – a relationship-driven programme that challenges young people to think differently about themselves, their communities and the society they want to shape. Here the pupils will collaborate with their peers from a local secondary school to connect across lines of difference, grow in confidence and further develop the self-awareness, empathy and leadership needed to thrive in a complex world.

more of the same and of the different

…indeed, while 2024-25 has in many ways necessitated resourceful responses and brave reflections, 2025-26 promises to be a time of even bolder explorations and developments for King’s steely commitment to equity and inclusion for every body perceived to be ‘different’.

These flows have been explored in year assemblies, pupil workshops and staff training, in our freshly updated pupil survey (focusing specifically on supporting connection and belonging) and in the ways our anti-discrimination framework is implemented, monitored and reviewed. Also in June’s annual DEI conference – where speakers from Bold Voices, Character Compass and Blind Ambition highlighted the importance of supporting positive gender identity, embedding character education and appreciating the experiences of severely sight impaired or partially sighted people. And at the International College, through the annual pupil-led culture fair and excellent termly curriculum enrichment focusing on Black History Month and LGBTQ+, neurodiverse and disabled experience. And during our established programme of DEI events. Here FREDIE, our pupil advocacy groups, nourished our community with assemblies, calligraphy, lantern-making, Bubble Tea, Bingtanghulu and dumpling workshops for Lunar New Year and bespoke tutor time, History lessons and the flying of the Progress Pride flag for Pride weekend. All complemented by the Library’s inspired and resourceful selection for each of our DEI events.

next

While there has been much to savour during the last school year, the coming terms feel likely to be even more exciting…

service and development

September will see the introduction of FREDIE as part of serving and developing the King’s and wider communities within the Wednesday afternoon programme. This will provide dedicated, quality time for pupil change teams to build on the existing networks, reach and legacy of the FREDIE groups and to enable even greater positive change, equity and inclusion. To plan and

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Tradition & Tech

Roll-out of 1-2-1 Devices by Mr Simon Carnell

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n the heart of the ancient city of Canterbury, The King’s School is a beacon of educational heritage. Perhaps the oldest school in the world, its roots stretch back over 1,400 years. But in a bold and thoughtful embrace of the digital age, King’s has now seamlessly integrated 1-2-1 Microsoft Surface devices into its academic life, showing that tradition and innovation are not mutually exclusive but mutually enriching.

A Digital Journey Rooted in Purpose Since 2020, staff at King’s have been using Microsoft Surface devices to enhance teaching and learning across the curriculum. These devices have become essential tools for lesson‘The decision to begin with planning, delivering interactive content the Shells reflects the school’s and providing timely feedback. Teachers embraced platforms like Microsoft commitment to preparing have Teams, OneNote and SharePoint to create pupils early for the demands a more connected and responsive learning of a digitally connected world.’ environment, whether in the classroom or during periods of remote learning. While the digital transformation is exciting, The King’s School remains deeply committed to its pastoral ethos. The House and Tutor systems continue to provide daily support, ensuring that every pupil is known, valued, and nurtured.

Technology is used to enhance, not replace, these relationships. Tutors can monitor academic progress through digital platforms and intervene early when support is needed. The school’s digital strategy also includes a strong focus on wellbeing. Pupils are taught how to manage screen time, use technology responsibly, and maintain a healthy balance between online and offline. Life Matters sessions and digital citizenship modules ensure that pupils grow not only as learners but as thoughtful, ethical users of technology.

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The 1-2-1 Device Programme: A New Chapter Begins Following a successful trial, the school is now launching its 1-2-1 device programme. Starting in September 2025, all Year 9 (Shell) pupils will receive their own Microsoft Surface device. This marks the beginning of a phased rollout, with plans to expand the programme to other year groups in 2026.

The decision to begin with the Shells reflects the school’s commitment to preparing pupils early for the demands of a digitally connected world. With their own devices, pupils will be able to access learning materials anytime, collaborate more effectively, and develop digital literacy skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom. Pupils involved in the Shell trial reported significant improvements in digital literacy and greater independence in managing their work. The devices helped them to stay organised and to be better prepared for prep and lessons, from OneNote for centralised notes and resources to Teams for prep submission and feedback. Pupils also use the devices for research, assessments, creative projects, and language learning. Teachers observed improved engagement and confidence among pupils with additional learning needs. The devices offer tools like speech-to-text and screen readers, and staff receive training to support these learners effectively.

Teaching staff will benefit from the 1-2-1 device programme in several ways. Teachers will be able to use their devices to streamline lesson delivery, share resources, and give feedback. With all prep set via Microsoft Teams and resources distributed through OneNote, staff can annotate, mark, and

‘Teachers benefit from IT support and professional development opportunities to help them integrate the devices into their teaching.’

even provide verbal feedback digitally, saving time and improving clarity for pupils. Monitoring software enables staff to oversee device usage during lesson and prep times. This helps to ensure pupils remain focused and on-task. Teachers benefit from IT support and professional development opportunities to help them integrate the devices into their teaching. This includes initial setup assistance, ongoing troubleshooting, training on digital tools and safeguarding.

From Prep to Progress: The Surface Pro 11 at King’s The Microsoft Surface Pro 11 was chosen for key practical, educational, and strategic reasons: High Specification for Learning Needs The Surface Pro 11 offers a powerful specification tailored for academic use: 16GB RAM and 256GB storage, Windows 11 Pro, compatibility with Microsoft 365 and Adobe Suite, long battery life and portability.

These features ensure it can handle everything from digital notetaking and research to creative tasks and assessments.

All-in-One Learning Bundle Each device comes with: keyboard cover, Surface Classroom Pen 2, protective case, power bank and USB-C cable.

This makes it a complete, ready-to-use learning tool from day one, with accessories chosen to support both classroom and independent study.

Practicality and Reliability The Surface Pro 11’s battery life is sufficient for a full school day, and the inclusion of a power bank means pupils don’t need to carry chargers. Charging stations are also available around the school and in day and boarding houses.

A Community Embracing the Future King’s is more than a school; it is a community. The integration of Microsoft Surface devices has been carefully managed to preserve the school’s unique culture. Pupils are taught digital etiquette alongside academic content, learning to balance screen time with face-to-face interaction. The school’s emphasis on respect, responsibility, and resilience is woven into its digital strategy, ensuring that technology serves the community, not the other way around.

The rollout of Surface devices is more than a tech upgrade; it’s a reflection of the King’s vision for education in the 21st Century. By combining cuttingedge technology with centuries-old values, the school is preparing its pupils to thrive in a rapidly changing world. As we look ahead to 2026 and beyond, the King’s community remains united in its mission: to honour the past, embrace the present, and shape the future — one Surface at a time.

‘Pupils are taught how to manage screen time, use technology responsibly, and maintain a healthy balance between online and offline.’

Secure and Standardised Environment The Surface Pro 11 is deployed under a COPE (Corporate-Owned, Personally Enabled) model. This ensures: consistent software and security settings across all devices, pre-installed educational apps, filtering and monitoring tools for safeguarding, remote management and support by the IT team. This standardisation helps teachers plan effectively and ensures all pupils have equal access to digital resources.

Seamless Integration with Teaching Tools The device supports: OneNote for centralised notes and resources, Microsoft Teams for prep, feedback and communication, Adobe apps for creative subjects, and Aural tools for Modern Languages. This aligns with how staff already teach and enhances their ability to deliver engaging, interactive lessons.

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k e e W

2025

by Coco Ursell Beer (6b, LX)

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he whole of the King’s Week … was a completely mad venture. No other community could do all that and play three cricket matches as well. It was quite mad and completely successful.’

I can imagine attributing this remark to almost anyone who’s just lived through King’s Week 2025. Those words were spoken, however, on Speech Day, 1952, by Headmaster Canon Shirley, when delivering his verdict on the first King’s Week ever.

The programme for the inaugural ‘festival of music and drama’ reveals a flurry of artistic endeavours beginning with Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro and Così fan tutte, moving through six consecutive nights of Shakespeare’s King Henry the Fourth, two orchestral concerts, and an evening of questions from boys fielded by teachers. It was rounded off with Handel’s Messiah in the Cathedral on the closing Saturday night.

Some 73 years later I checked in with Ms Walton, now at the helm of this

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much-loved finale to the school’s annual calendar. I asked how many events she had been charged with co-ordinating this year, and how she decides which earn a slot.

‘Over 250 events, and a large part of deciding on the eclectic mix is just saying ‘yes’ to people’s great ideas. We’ve had aerial silks and ‘Families and friends trapeze, a magic show and even soaked up relaxing flowers for poetry, which were all completely pupil-led initiatives.’ vibes outside while they

laid out picnics, popped

And does Ms Walton relish her corks, caught up and role? ‘I love organising the week, tucked in.’ and enabling such amazingly highquality events that so many talented colleagues and pupils organise. I also love the fact that I get to liase with almost everyone in the school.’

This includes those working in properties who helped prepare Green Court for the arrival of the huge marquee, now requisite for hosting so many audiences, not least for Jazz on a Summer Sunset. Before stepping inside for a treat of joyously syncopated rhythms and improvisation, families and friends soaked up relaxing vibes outside while they laid out picnics, popped corks, caught up and tucked in.

Having then drifted in with festival-style wristbands attached, we were steered through a wonderfully eclectic repertoire that left us wanting more.

As the week whizzed on, housemates from Luxmoore, whom I’d seen disappearing for rehearsals over the last few months, headed out for their performances in Wuthering Heights and KiDaCo. When I caught up with Georgia Roberts later, I asked how it felt taking part.

‘It was really insightful to learn and tell the story of Cathy Linton in Wuthering. And in KiDaCo, just incredible to perform dances to songs

by Rihanna and Michael Jackson.’

The production of The Railway Children and intimate lunchtime concerts in The Old Synagogue showed off yet more King’s talent and The Enormous Inter-house General Knowledge Quiz brought out the pupils’ competitive streak. (Linacre claimed victory.)

When Friday night’s Serenade arrived, those of us singing looked out over a sea of multi-coloured blankets and audience members getting And then there was The Gala Symphony Concert. Before it began, comfy for the performance ahead. When they we knew it would be the last time we’d hear our looked back at us, I’m told the view of the Cathedral phenomenal 6a’s performing. Indeed, Toby Davies ‘True King’s comradeship and Matilda Eriksson gave stunning performances while the sun gradually ebbed away for the day was beautiful. And when we paused between pieces a in their ’cello and horn solos. There was the was shown when fellow local blackbird added his own enchanting song. His heart-stopping moment when a string on Joe violinists seamlessly melodious refrain deserved applause of its own.

Netley’s violin broke with an audible ping twelve passed a replacement minutes into his phenomenal solo in Tchaikovsky’s instrument on which It can be easy to forget that among the now Violin Concerto. True King’s comradeship was traditional big ‘set pieces’ of music, drama and shown when fellow violinists seamlessly passed he ‘simply’ continued dance in King’s Week, there is room for reflective a replacement instrument on which he ‘simply’ bowing.’ activities like tours of the Cathedral’s library and continued bowing. Joe’s exquisite performance stained-glass windows and enjoying exhibitions of cast a spell over everyone art and photography. It’s no exaggeration to say there is something in Shirley Hall, leaving us stunned and for everyone. speechless. Our standing ovation said it all and, if you get a chance, check the concert By the time we got to lunch at Birley’s on Saturday, it was hard to out on the Music Department’s YouTube believe we were already half-way through. Kerry and her catering channel. (Hear! Hear! Ed.) team prepared a feast of bao buns and chips with an unexpected pairing of pomegranate, which was delicious. I was slightly dragged When each King’s Week ends, another, along to view the vintage cars but then found myself, much to my as Ms Walton explains, is in the making, surprise, wanting the green MG to win. While cricket matches, show with arrangements for next year starting in jumping and swimming took place away from the Precincts, Green September. Teachers and pupils come and Court remained a place for communing. Some pupils and guests go but King’s Week, we hope, will continue chilled in deckchairs; others enjoyed tea and cake. All the while OKS to be a beacon of extraordinariness and, as fencing and other activities took place, not least the chance to have Canon Shirley said, ‘complete madness’ for a go on a vintage unicycle. many more decades to come. CANTUARIAN | 2025

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Obituary

the very reverend dr robert willis The Very Reverend Dr Robert Willis died on 22 October 2024, aged 77.

Mark Taylor, Bursar and Clerk to the Governors, pays tribute.

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ean Robert will be his thoughtful words and quiet remembered with deep humour. affection and gratitude for his many years of devoted During the pandemic, Dean Robert service as Chairman of the Board became a source of comfort far of Governors at beyond Canterbury The King’s School, ‘Dean Robert’s through his daily Canterbury. legacy at King’s is reflections from the Deanery Garden.

A gentle and one of compassion, His calm voice, inspiration and spiritual depth, and generous presence in the life of the enduring kindness.’ the charming antics School, Dean Robert of his cats, Leo and brought warmth, wisdom and Tiger, brought peace and hope to unwavering care to his role. He thousands around the world. was not only a guiding hand in governance but also a beloved Dean Robert’s legacy at King’s is friend to pupils, staff and one of compassion, inspiration families alike. Whether attending and enduring kindness. He leaves concerts, drama productions, or behind a community shaped by Speech Days, he radiated joy and his faith, touched by his love, and genuine interest in the life of the forever grateful for his presence School, often moving hearts with among us.

‘He radiated joy and genuine interest in the life of the School, often moving hearts with his thoughtful words and quiet humour.’

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‘He leaves behind a community shaped by faith, touched by his love, and forever grateful for his presence among us.’

Robert’s funeral took place in New Haven, Connecticut, USA on 13 November 2024, and has been viewed by over 500,000 people online. A memorial service took place on 2 February 2025 at Salisbury Cathedral. The Head, Bursar and many members of the wider King’s community were in attendance. Tributes and prayers were delivered by Edmund de Waal (MR 1977-81) and Sir Nicholas Lyons (BR/LN 1972-77 and former governor). Many obituaries and tributes honouring Robert’s life and legacy can be found online.

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Obituary

Andrew mcfall

by Mrs Laura Mawby

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ndrew McFall, teacher of Mathematics, sometime Head of General Studies, sometime Head of Activities, sometime Head of the RAF section in the CCF, tutor in School House and Jervis, and President of the Common Room 2021-2023, sadly passed away in Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Hospital in Margate on 29 December 2024, after a sudden illness and hospitalisation from which he never recovered. The tributes that flowed in following his death showed how well respected, well liked, and universally appreciated Andrew was in all aspects of his life. Many colleagues and pupils remember him well as the entertaining commentator on Sports Day and in the ‘Green Court Finals’, for his witticisms and dry humour in lessons and in the Common Room, and for his belief that anyone could learn Maths.

Andrew was born on 28 June 1965 and pursued his passion for Mathematics at the University of Kent, where he earned his degree, before completing his teaching qualification at St Catherine’s College, Oxford. He joined the King's School staff in 1991, beginning what would become one of the longest tenures in the school's recent history. He served the school with distinction, in the variety of roles aforementioned, until his retirement in 2023, by which time he had become the longest-serving member of the academic staff save for his dear friend, Lynda Horn. His funeral, held at Barham Crematorium on Tuesday 11 February 2025, was well attended by colleagues both past and present, as well as former pupils – testament to the profound impact he had on the King's community.

During the challenging period of the ongoing lockdowns due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Andrew stepped forward to serve as President As Cover Manager, Andrew transformed what could have been of the Common Room, a role that proved vital in maintaining the mundane administrative communications into moments of school's collegial spirit. He kept staff connected through weekly levity, ensuring that even the most dreaded cover emails arrived online social catch-ups during later lockdowns, demonstrating the accompanied by a joke or pun. Former pupils remember his delightful habit of responding to afternoon greetings with same care for his colleagues that characterised his ‘Morning’ – and, when challenged, his beaming smile entire career. Upon returning to normal operations, he resurrected the position of Social Secretary on ‘Andrew was a man of and the explanation that ‘it's morning somewhere’ fierce convictions and became part of King's folklore. the Common Room Committee, a role I was proud to take on, to ensure the community bonds he had egalitarian values, helped preserve would continue to flourish. who valued inclusivity Andrew's passions extended far beyond the classroom. He had an abiding love for vehicles, and bonhomie above particularly motorbikes and his cherished Audi A7, Andrew was a man of fierce convictions and all else.’ and was devoted to his beloved dogs, Impi, Freya, egalitarian values, who valued inclusivity and and Maisie. One colleague, who also owned a black bonhomie above all else. His political opinions were deeply held and passionately expressed, reflecting his abhorrence of Border-Collie X, was frequently accused by Andrew of stealing Maisie right-wing extremism and his commitment to fairness and intelligent whenever she posted a picture of her dog on social media. He was leadership. Yet it was his irreverent but ever-present sense of humour both delighted and enthused when the same colleague suggested that endeared him to generations of pupils and staff. Many will recall model railways as a Wednesday afternoon activity and proceeded the legendary 'incident in the gorilla suit' that support staff Leigh with this plan in Andrew’s own classroom. His charitable nature Small and Sarah Brockman still recount with fondness, or the famous manifested in spectacular fashion when he undertook a wing walk, 'inflating trick' demonstrated on countless Commemoration Days in raising £2000 for Pilgrims Hospices. Memorably, in later years he could often be seen around the school precincts wearing his navythe garden of The Dolphin. blue jumper emblazoned with 'Hovercraft Pilot' across the back, a testament to yet another of his diverse interests.

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‘Small gestures – like providing a coffee machine for a colleague stuck in a makeshift office during COVID – were second nature to him.’

colleagues. Small gestures – like providing a coffee machine for a colleague stuck in a makeshift office during COVID – were second nature to him. His wit was legendary, perhaps best exemplified by his admission that he had agreed to organise the school's timetable administration purely so he could schedule the IT lessons for Shell Group E and ensure his timetable displayed ‘ShITE’ across it each week.

Andrew was a tutor in Jervis House for over two decades, initially under Lynda Horn, then Julia Gorman, before Rachael Heskins.

Rachael recalls: ‘He was very dedicated to his tutees and would always go the extra mile to support them – and always with a (usually very cheesy) joke to jolly them along if the chips were down. He never took boarding life too seriously and I particularly appreciated his sense of humour and perspective while I navigated my challenging first few months in charge of a house he knew far better than me. One anecdote possibly sums up his approach to tutoring perfectly: him dressing up as Santa to hand out the house Secret Santa gifts each year, in a costume good enough to convince my then-veryyoung children that the real deal had arrived (on one occasion accompanied by a dog dressed up as a reindeer), cracking slightly dodgy Christmas- / Santa-related jokes that largely (luckily!) flew over his audience’s heads. In his last years at the School, health complications meant that Andrew had to move to a day house where evening duties were not required. He took with him his relentless banter and sharp wit, leaving our team all the poorer for his absence.’

Former pupils remember him not merely as an educator, but as one of those rare individuals who shaped their formative years through sheer force of personality and genuine care. One tribute noted: ‘For me it's never the celebrities, or the 'influencers' who shape you. It's those enigmatic, interesting, fun and joyful people who come into your life that have the most profound effect.’ Another recalled his organisation of ‘the range of tandems, unicycles and bikes round the Green Court during King's Week’ and promised to ‘drink shots of whisky to him and eat haggis today in tribute.’

This reference recalls Andrew’s Scottish heritage, which was another facet of this multidimensional man: the Common Room held a Burns Night celebration in 2022, at which Andrew gave the address to the haggis in fine style, using a disappointingly blunt knife and an excellent accent for enunciating Rabbie Burns’ immortal address.

Colleagues still speak of Andrew's extraordinary kindness and generosity of spirit. He volunteered to deliver laptops to teachers' homes during the first lockdown, undertaking long journeys to support his

On school trips, Andrew's sense of fun transformed every expedition into an adventure. Whether conducting daily Schnitzel reviews in Vienna, presiding over auctions in New York (where Lynda recalls scratching her head at the wrong point, accidentally bidding on a piece of King's School stonework for $300, from which she was only rescued by an OKS stepping in to place a higher bid), or speaking only Flemish while driving through Belgium en route to Prague, he brought joy and laughter to every journey. Emily Triffault, his colleague in the Maths Department, recalls: ‘He certainly made my introduction to King’s happier and more relaxed. His casual, gregarious, and welcoming manner immediately put me at ease around him... We went to Thorpe Park together for the Remove end-of-year trip, and we were queuing for Saw when we both decided it looked a little rough for us, despite him having completed a Charity Wing Walk that year! We ditched the colleagues waiting for Saw and went to queue for Colossus instead. Despite the queue being an hour or so long, I did not feel the time pass as he was such a great conversationalist.’

Andrew McFall was a man of wide-ranging interests and deep humanity, whose career at King's was distinguished not only by his longevity but by the warmth, wit, and wisdom he brought to every aspect of school life. He was, as one colleague observed, a ‘one-off’ who will be hugely missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. It’s always morning somewhere, but now, for Andrew, we hope it’s simply always morning.

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Salvete

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Alex Patton Senior Deputy Head

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lex’s appointment at King’s marks a very welcome return for him to a Cathedral environment.

Growing up in Cornwall, he was a chorister at Truro Cathedral, then a choral scholar at Gloucester Cathedral during a gap year, and after that a choral and academic exhibitioner at Gonville and Caius College Cambridge from where he took a first in Geography.

After beginning his career as a public policy consultant, he succumbed to the draw of teaching and spent five years at Sevenoaks School, teaching the IB, leading Cross Country running and the Duke of Edinburgh, supporting pupils applying to university, and latterly overseeing all Sixth Form admissions to the school. In 2016 he moved to Brighton College as Head of Sixth Form and subsequently rose to be Deputy Headmaster in charge of academic staff and then pastoral care and safeguarding. He is particularly proud of having coached and nurtured several international athletes in that time, supported around two dozen successful pupil applications for Geography at Oxbridge, and recruited a significant number of highly qualified new graduates into the teaching profession.

In August he relocated to Canterbury with his wife and two children, both of whom attend Junior King’s. He still attempts a dawn jog every day, enjoys music of all kinds, and can bore anyone if asked to talk about the geographical factors affecting wine production.

Amelia Partridge

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History and Politics

melia grew up in a busy home in West Sussex, where she attended a local school and began to love politics and debating with people. She completed a joint honours degree in History & Politics at the University of Warwick and for a brief period was becoming a prison officer before changing course to pursue teaching.

Spending a year as a graduate assistant to the History Department at Cranleigh School, she realised how much she loved the fastpaced nature of boarding school life and moved to join King’s in September 2024.

Teaching both History & Politics means she can devote her time to both of her muchloved subjects and teach years throughout the school. She is particularly excited to take on new responsibilities as Deputy Housemistress of Walpole, encouraging a number of our pupils during their time at King’s.

‘Teaching both History & Politics means she can devote her time to both of her much-loved subjects.’

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THE REVEREND LUCY SULLIVAN

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Associate Chaplain

orn and raised in South London, Lucy read Sport and Exercise Sciences (BSc) at the University of Chichester. After a few years working in the field of exercise prescription and health promotion for the NHS, and a formative year on the Isle of Man as a ministerial intern (think trying on ‘vicaring’ for size), she was called to train for ordained ministry at the College of the Resurrection, Mirfield, and completed a BA in Theology and Ministry at the University of Sheffield.

Lucy is just as happy on the touch line at Birley’s as she is in the Cathedral and Chapels of King’s. Lucy joined us from West Sussex, where she was priest-in-charge of two seaside parishes in May 2024. She enjoys time spent with pupils and staff in the Common Room, Boarding Houses and Sports pitches alike, as well as valuing the variety that her role as Chaplain to the Junior King’s School brings to the mix.

‘Lucy is just as happy on the touch line at Birley’s as she is in the Cathedral and Chapels of King’s.’

Matthew Key Deputy Head Academic ‘And specially, from every shires ende Of Engelond, to Caunterbury [he] wende.’

(General Prologue, lines 15-16)

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ike many before them, Matt and his wife Jenny have wended their way to Canterbury, trading the capital’s hustle for a city steeped in history, literature, and a slightly easier commute. An ex-Teach Firster from the West Midlands, via North Wales, Matt began his career in national education strategy, working for Michael Gove in the newly minted coalition government’s Department for Education. Seeing the light, he abandoned white papers for the whiteboard, becoming Head of History at the London Academy of Excellence, Stratford, an Olympic legacy school in the shadow of the Orbit. From there, he moved further along the North Circular to Forest School, where he was Head of History and later Deputy Head (Academic). Matt read English Literature and History at Birmingham, graduating with a Congratulatory First but a damaged social reputation after years as Secretary of the campus Liberal Democrats. He later studied educational leadership at Warwick and pursued interdisciplinary humanities through research at Oxford, ultimately choosing love and teaching over the final DPhil submission. (Do not ask him about Victorian swimming baths, libraries, or civic infrastructure if you value your time.)

Beyond school, Matt is a keen but amateur oenophile, embraces travel, plods earnestly through a cricket match, endures cycling, and attempts to train his obstreperous cockapoo, Brinkley.

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Emma McCoubrie Head of Learning Enhancement

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orn in Germany but growing up in Kent, Emma studied English at the University of Southampton (BA and MA). Following her PGCE at the University of Cambridge, she taught in a trilingual school in northern Spain; on return, she worked for eleven years at Sevenoaks School, where she taught our own Jude Lowson GCSE English!

Emma was a boarding HSM there and then moved back to East Kent, where she was Head of Sixth Form at a school in Dover. Her interest in supporting neurodiverse pupils developed further when she worked at a local grammar school, completing the NASENCo qualification. Emma took up the post of Head of Learning Support at Junior King’s in 2018 and is now our Head of Learning Enhancement here, where she is enjoying recognising many former pupils. She lives near Canterbury with her husband, Niall, son Ewan and dog Kingsley, whilst her elder children are both at university. Emma remembers these words from John Keats on visiting Canterbury, which she had on her classroom wall some years ago: ‘...the remembrance of Chaucer will set me forward like a billiard ball.’ Emma feels inspired to be working here, in the very centre of this city.

Claire Frere

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Head of Chemistry

laire completed a Masters in Chemistry at the University of Bath.

Her specialism is material and physical chemistry, researching methods to produce surfaces for dye-sensitised solar cells. Claire has worked at a variety of private and state schools owing to being married into the military and she joins us from St Francis’ College in Letchworth Garden City.

Throughout her career, she has been heavily involved in coaching staff and pupils and has previously been Head of Chemistry and Second in Science at The Wellington Academy, Wiltshire. She enjoys running trips, including expeditions for the Duke of Edinburgh. With her husband nearing the end of his military career, Claire has chosen to settle her family at King’s, with her two children and dogs. Sport is an important part of their family life; they will often be at Birley’s on a Saturday afternoon. Claire also enjoys netball, outdoor swimming, and musical theatre, and looks forward to bringing this experience to King’s.

‘Her specialism is material and physical chemistry, researching methods to produce surfaces for dye-sensitised solar cells.’

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Petri Mostert Computer Science

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orn and raised in rural South Africa, Petri pursued his interest in technology from an early age, completing undergraduate degrees in both Computer Science and Law at the University of Pretoria. After earning his Master of Laws through the University of London, he spent several rewarding years in legal practice, specialising in Engineering, Construction, and Cyber Law. The call to education, though unexpected, proved irresistible. Petri began his teaching career at Curro Hillcrest, a secondary school in Durban, where he served as Head of Computer Science and Head of Academic Administration and Policies. An opportunity to teach and lead a Computer Science department in Guernsey marked the start of his international career. In January 2025, he relocated to Canterbury to join the Computer Science Department at King’s and has swiftly fallen in love with both the school and the beauty of Kent, which he hopes to call his forever home. Passionate about holistic education and the role of curiosity and creativity in the classroom, Petri looks forward to contributing fully to King’s life. Away from his professional duties, he is an enthusiastic choir singer and long-distance runner, and is eager to pursue both in his new surroundings.

‘Passionate about holistic education and the role of curiosity and creativity in the classroom, Petri looks forward to contributing fully to King’s life.’

Stephanie Clive

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Classics

tephanie grew up in London and attended Alleyn’s School but moved to Bedales for the Sixth Form. She went on to study Classics at Somerville College, Oxford, where she was awarded the Oxford Prize in Comparative Philology and a Mary Somerville Prize. She then embarked on a career in the music and events industry, organising global festivals and tours, but couldn’t let go of the Classical world: she’d been tutoring students in Latin and Greek throughout this time, and assisting many pupils with their university applications. In 2018 she began an MA in Creative Writing at Royal Holloway which she finished in 2020 with Distinction. Her work included a new translation of Ovid’s Heroides and dissertations on the topic of Reception Studies.

Stephanie began teaching Classics at Benenden School in 2020, working also as Oxbridge Coordinator and Sixth Form Scholarship Mentor, while volunteering as an Oxbridge entrance tutor for pupils from maintained schools. She is very much looking forward to getting to know everyone at King’s, especially if they’re willing to greet her with ‘salve’!

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‘Her work included a new translation of Ovid’s Heroides and dissertations on the topic of Reception Studies.’

Rachel Bellamy Sport

R ‘After six years as a senior manager, Rachel is very much enjoying the opportunity to spend more time in the classroom.’

achel was brought up in Leicester and attended Wyggeston and Queen Elisabeth 1st College, before studying Sports Science and English at Loughborough University. Academic endeavours were combined with playing lots of hockey and cricket. More recently Rachel has continued to play MCC cricket as well as taking part in a variety of marathons, ultra marathons and ironman triathlons.

Rachel started her teaching career in PE and English at Worksop College, living in a boarding house as Assistant Housemistress and completing an MA in Education; she was also privileged to teach both the future GB hockey captain and England cricket captain.

After 11 years at Worksop College, including five as Head of PE, Rachel moved to St Edward’s School, Oxford, to run a boarding house for ten years as well as teaching Sports Science and Psychology, followed by roles as the Assistant Head Pastoral, Designated Safeguarding Lead and latterly Deputy Head Pastoral.

After six years as a senior manager, Rachel is very much enjoying the opportunity to spend more time in the classroom and on the games fields after her move to King’s. She is also enjoying exploring Kent on foot and two wheels.

Tom Watts

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Chemistry

orn in London, Tom grew up on the Jurassic Coast of Dorset. After his A’ Levels, Tom took Chemistry at University College, London, with a year abroad at the University of Toronto. After a research placement in Toronto, he returned to UCL to finish his MSci. Developing a love of research during his year abroad, he continued his studies as a DPhil student at the University of Oxford, reading Organic Chemistry. His work lies at the intersection of computational techniques and cuttingedge organic chemistry, using new computational techniques such as machine learning to predict a range of molecular properties. During his DPhil Tom spent a lot of time teaching undergraduate students both theoretical and practical Chemistry.

This enjoyable teaching experience led him to pursue a career in education. Tom joined King’s in January. When not teaching Chemistry, he can be found helping out with both Model UN and Debating, along with Badminton.

‘His work lies at the intersection of computational techniques and cutting-edge organic chemistry.’

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Valete

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LUKE BARTLETT

by Mr Rob Sanderson

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s Deputy Head Academic Luke has been exceptional and has achieved significant milestones for the school; as a musician he has been a strong supporter of the Music Department and a regular organist in countless school services in the Cathedral; and as a friend he has engaged us with humble intellect, enormous integrity, and a wonderful knowledge of fine wine!

eight hours ahead of us and so, with everyone in full support, Luke decided we should only teach between 9am and 2pm (five days per week), and each single lesson should only be 20 minutes long. Bliss!

Teachers were also invited to offer elective courses or extension lectures on subject-related topics.

This polymath approach to learning, accessible to all, reflected Luke’s very own love of academic life and innate interest in reading widely around all our subjects and those beyond our Precinct walls. We were all in full support and with Luke’s assistance he made the challenge of teaching 850+ students around the globe, and also their return to the ‘bubble terms’ the very best it could possibly be and something to be rightly very proud of.

Luke arrived at King’s in January 2017 from Uppingham and was quick to raise the professionalism of our teaching, reporting and classroom presentation.

Reports were encouraged to be short, pithy and concise – more like tweets on X and statements in the FT than letters home to distant grandparents.

Classrooms were soon decluttered and distracting wall displays were swapped for classroom feature walls Luke has challenged the in aquatic turquoise or Shells and stretched the very pomegranate purple. A brightest 6a all under one greater focus was put on umbrella. The Shell Global learning and attainment Perspectives talks have been with the introduction of fine a huge success, and the Shell trajectory grades (FTGs) and General Knowledge exams correspondingly we saw the have developed curiosity in ‘Luke has spearheaded the academic progress of King’s over these results in the school begin the weakest and avid thirst for to rise. Luke is efficient and scholarship in the strongest. past eight years with true clarity of direction and certainty of precise with his choice of Luke has also taken the outcome.’ words, and this brought King’s Scholars (from all year with it direction, certainty and drive; this streamlining of reporting groups) under his wing and has held regular forums for discussion and classroom management quickly aided focus and pupil-centred and extension, including his cerebral speeches at the annual Scholars learning.

Dinner and his famous talks on the Chemistry of Wine, which have always been extremely popular.

Luke has spearheaded the academic progress of King’s over these past eight years with true clarity of direction and certainty of outcome. One member of staff commented: Luke is exceptionally generous The Covid years were an enormous challenge in which he guided us with his time. There are many things that he does for other people, through 18 months of IT upgrades and teacher training on how to use but in typical fashion does not take any credit, or require any thanks, something called Teams, all within one month between mid-March often actively seeking to quietly work behind the scenes to help and mid-April 2020. The birth and growth of King’s Education Online others or champion their cause. As a HOD, I have always appreciated was a mammoth task. Some of us didn’t know how to use a smart how he has dedicated so much of his time and effort to promoting board, let alone how to screen-share, record, mark online, create the academic life of the school, taking a genuine interest in how we forms or quizzes and put pupils into break-out rooms. One moment can support teachers and improve the academic outcomes for all of of genius was to realise that many of our pupils were in a time zone our pupils.

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Luke has led by example. He has taught two sets for Chemistry every year (usually including a 6a set) and has enjoyed wearing the lab coat as much as the gown and hood.

The Housemaster of The Grange writes: Luke immediately became a well-regarded and full member of the house tutor team, completing evening duties, attending social events, Christmas dinners, concerts and leavers’ black-tie evenings, far beyond the expectation of anyone on the SMT. He regularly tried to engage members of the house in intellectual discussions, to varying degrees of success. Even when he did not have a tutor group, Luke would still venture over to The Grange to meet with the boys, to offer advice on exams or support in times of need. He will be most remembered for raising the class and tone of our Christmas Dinners through the creation of a Grange close harmony acapella group.

acoustic. You have to deal with continual breakdowns of cameras and sound systems, leaving you completely isolated in the loft. Alas, very few people listen with much intent to the voluntaries that are so difficult to prepare. Therefore, ‘It was a great and it was a great and worthy tribute worthy tribute that the that, when asked, the school left the Cathedral in silence as Luke played school left the Cathedral his final voluntary after Congers, a in silence as Luke played performance of Bach’s ‘Wachet Auf’ his final voluntary after organ prelude, played with real skill Congers, a performance and poise.

of Bach’s ‘Wachet Auf ’

To nobody’s surprise, as an organist from his days as a student at the University of Oxford, Luke quickly became semi-attached to the Music Department, playing the organ for all school Cathedral assemblies, and occasionally for Cathedral Evensong.

One of Luke’s innovations was to organ prelude, played support an annual bespoke trip for with real skill and poise.’ the pupil organists, visiting great churches and college chapels in Cambridge and London. Niche and inspirational, the pursuit of encouragement, skill and joy is a worthy cause – and Luke found that in abundance within the world of music.

The Director of Music says: From the moment Luke joined the staff, his experience and sophistication as a musician were apparent. Not only was he a huge supporter of everything we performed, but his feedback was always entirely measured and extremely valuable. What very few people really understand is the importance and incredible skill of Luke’s organ playing. The difficulty with accompanying Cathedral services is that you don’t just have to be a skilled instrumentalist, but you also need to be able to follow a congregation whose sound (on a good day) is typically three seconds delayed because of the

Luke leaves us to be Headmaster at Harrow International School in southeast China – just outside Macau and Hong Kong. It currently has 300 boarders, but under his leadership aims to grow to 900.

He leaves King’s with huge shoes to fill, having led us through the turbulent Covid years and ever-evolving shape of the pupil intake, to finish with last summer’s public exam results being some of the best we have had in terms of A* at A’ Level and 9s at GCSE. Luke is a fine leader, academic, teacher, tutor, musician, and humble friend of great integrity. We wish him all the very best for his future.

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Richard Johnson

by Mr Stuart Ocock

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erhaps the best thing to come out of Memphis since Elvis, in 2015 Richard arrived in Canterbury and quickly expressed surprise that there was no classroom air-conditioning – an idea worth revisiting during this heatwave term. Armed with a freshly defended PhD, one main strand of his research involved expertise in two-player adversarial games, ideal preparation for some of his future roles at King’s.

Richard’s turbocharged background in mathematics meant he just about passed muster for teaching here: a PhD in Mathematics supervised by Prof. Béla Bollobás, University of Memphis; Master of Advanced Study Mathematics, Pembroke College, Cambridge; MSc Mathematics and Computer Science, Merton College, Oxford; BA Mathematics, Pembroke College, Cambridge.

beautifully typeset and of very high quality. When submitting results, instead of simple percentages, he delivers a full questionby-question breakdown in a multi-coloured conditionallyformatted spreadsheet.

Never mere ‘room meat’ in meetings, Richard’s contributions have been vital. It has often seemed like having a second Second in the Department, not something needed, perhaps, with KJP as Deputy!

In the Department Richard quickly developed a reputation as a finisher; many have good ideas now and then, but rarely can someone have been so consequential.

Richard sets the standard, and we all try to work better as a result. He gives the impression of having extra hours in his day (I will miss the late-night email tennis). Once a fire alarm meant a midnight evacuation of a girls’ house, and pupils were surprised to see Richard emerge from his classroom midway through a long bout of nocturnal work.

Richard’s mathematical lineage is rather special. Béla Bollobás connects to J. E. Littlewood, who some claim was the best mathematician in the world in the early 20th Century. Bollobás, a ‘In spite of his considerable pedigree, he has been world-class expert in combinatorics, links to Erdős (who ‘turned coffee Mr George Harrison writes: capable and most patient even when teaching those into theorems’), also supervising “Initially Richard was a tutor in who struggle with the subject.’

Professor Sir Timothy Gowers, both Harvey, but after two years he a Fields Medallist (equivalent of a Nobel in Mathematics) and a joined Marlowe as Deputy Housemater and served seven years; he knighthood. Richard, now past forty, cannot win the former, but was first-class in every respect. Dedication to his tutees included might still hold out for the latter. re-inventing reporting software, so they and their parents could immediately see previous grades whenever opening a report. There Somehow, with this mountain of qualifications, he has been a teacher were scores of initiatives that made of pupils first, and of Mathematics second. In spite of his considerable his tutoring different, such as asking pedigree, he has been capable and most patient even when teaching his tutees to attend Matins on at ‘Pupils were surprised to those who struggle with the subject; his interview lesson was one least one Sunday in their time at the see Richard emerge from of the very best I ever saw. On arrival at King’s he appeared to be a School, something few day pupils fully-formed teacher from the start, another of those rare individuals do. His dedication was such that the his classroom midway whose sets pupils request to join for his self-confidence and mastery timing of his move from King’s was in through a long bout of of his subject. An excellent and thorough classroom teacher, able to part determined by his desire to see nocturnal work.’ do the inspiration as well as the perspiration, he has a Stakhanovite his tutor group through its full five work ethic that has marked him out since day one. years here rather than leave them with a new person for their 6a year.

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balance of chasing up pupils for poor punctuality and missing commitments with a sense of fun. His love of board games means that Marlowe has cupboards full of dragons, community chests and tiny plastic Napoleons bent on world domination.

His contributions have gone a lot further than the pupils’ daily experience and the Housemaster has relied on his wisdom in his decision-making, the expressions ‘I really wouldn’t do that if I were you’ and ‘I wonder if you’ve thought about….’ becoming necessary preambles to conversations between them. His comments resemble those by the computer HAL in 2001: A Space Odyssey: ‘My mission responsibilities range over the entire operation of the ship, so I am constantly occupied.’; ‘It can only be attributable to human error.’; ‘I’m sorry, Dave.

I’m afraid I can’t do that.’”

Richard came to King’s to be involved in the wider life of the School, running board-game activities, providing a safe space for those wanting to play D&D, being the go-to colleague for trips (New York, Italy and Iceland), running Oxbridge applications, and timetabling. Moreover, he was committed to the Boat Club for several years and then switched to crosscountry, maintaining an involvement in sport whilst managing all the other calls on his time.

Witness what Richard achieved as part of the group negotiating with the School over pensions. If you do not know, there is quite a difference between being a mathematician and an accountant, a bit like that If Richard were in a D&D game, how would we fill out his line of Truman Capote criticising Jack Kerouac: ‘This isn’t writing; it’s character sheet? First, we need to assign ability scores to the typing.’ Bursarial colleagues, perhaps even our Chair categories: Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, of Governors, had the same experience that the rest Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma.

‘His love of board games of us have when they get close to RABJ: they learn Runner, rower, gamer, mathematician, he means that Marlowe something. Although he is a blackbelt in Microsoft would score highly in all areas, as per Spike Excel, Richard is very well attuned to the poetical and Milligan: ‘Mathematics: I speak it like a has cupboards full of magical aspects of Mathematics. Capote again: ‘To native.’ A great communicator, he has been dragons, community me, the greatest pleasure of writing is not what it’s a friend to everyone (even Belgians) and chests and tiny plastic about, but the inner music that words make.’ helped glue together a great deal in the Napoleons bent on world Common Room. A force for lawful good, he Richard’s doctoral work involved ‘sorting algorithms was a bulwark against the chaotic nature domination.’ using incomplete instruments’ and ‘blocking in traffic of whomever is running my department. systems’: easy to phrase and to explore, but very As to his appearance, he has continued the difficult to solve. He was therefore most well suited to become School department’s fondness for facial hair, having begun nearer Timetabler, now a year-round job. His oversight meant noticing and Jacob than Esau. He has been much more than merely barba correcting the oversights of others, battling the Dunning-Kruger effect tenus sapientes and we have all benefited from his steady in full flow. Richard’s acquisition of jobs has never seemed like a status wisdom. grab, more a desire to be useful, and recognition for the manifold ways in which he has made things run better. HAL: ‘I am putting myself to the fullest possible use, which is all I think that any conscious entity can ever hope to do.’

So, Doccy J is moving on, and it is time to take down the inflatable crocodile from the F6 ceiling. Richard’s recent completion of the PGCE makes him an ‘ECT’ next year. At interview Richard declared his intention to stay at King’s for forty years. We are sorely sorry that he has not quite managed it, but if he comes back at some point to give us the other thirty then I for one will be mightily pleased.

‘Somehow, with this mountain of qualifications, he has been a teacher of pupils first, and of Mathematics second.’

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jeanne haMman

by Ms Hannah Warwicker

J

Preparing for a debate in one of the Cambridge Union libraries.

eanne Hamman leaves us this year after two years at King’s, the second of which she spent as the inaugural Debater-inResidence. In this role, she has coached King’s pupils to outstanding successes. This year, the school has achieved a rare double, with pupils qualifying for both the Cambridge and the Oxford schools finals, and we have also had a pupil qualify for the finals of the UK Historical Association Great Debate. When I asked the pupils for a few thoughts about Jeanne, however, they told me Jeanne will be remembered for more than these successes. They speak of her supportive and encouraging coaching, her quality teaching of key skills, and her ability to wield serious intellectual clout when the time is right.

For a Debater-in-Residence, Jeanne has been invaluable in a strikingly wide range of other areas. She has been a stalwart of the CCF, in capacities as diverse as medic and seamstress, and has been an integral member of the Futures team this year. In Broughton, she has been a much-loved resident tutor and a keen advocate for ambition and endeavour in the girls.

More recently, she has made a brief foray into work in the academic office too. Then there are the endless trips and cover lessons, and the enthusiasm for stepping up and mucking in with anything from academic talks to cricket coaching.

Jeanne is the person everyone wants ‘Jeanne is the person everyone wants on their team, for her absurdly on their team, for her absurdly broad broad skill-set, her deeply loyal approach to team working, and also skill-set, her deeply loyal approach to for the laughs along the way.’ team working, and also for the laughs along the way. It goes without saying that she will be much missed. Personally, I will miss her conversation at the lunch table even more than the workload she juggled, and I expect I’m not alone in that. Jeanne belongs in education like no one I have ever known, so it is only fitting that she is going on to a PhD next. I just hope we might see her back in a boarding school on the other side.

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Jonathan Pope

by Mrs Lynda Horn

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onathan joined the Economics Department at King’s in September 2018 and he brought with him a kind heart, a tireless work ethic, and a quiet but powerful sense of leadership.

Five years ago Jonathan became Head of Economics following on from Charlie Chester (no mean feat!) and while many might have chosen to coast on the momentum already built, Jonathan did the opposite. He rolled up his sleeves and got to work. What truly sets him apart is not just the things he has achieved, but how he did them. He has always been a supportive Head of Department— understanding, approachable, and deeply empathetic. He recognised that life outside the classroom matters just as much as what happens within it, and he made space for both. That kind of leadership is rare, and it leaves a lasting impact. He led us through a period of rapid growth in pupil numbers, never once compromising on care or quality. His vision and dedication ensured that our department not only kept up with demand but set new benchmarks for excellence.

Some quotations from members of the department: ‘Jonathan, your departure leaves a big hole—professionally and personally. But while we will miss you dearly, we are also incredibly excited for what lies ahead for you, Jo, Oscar, and Owen. Moving closer to family in China is a beautiful new chapter, and we wish you nothing but joy, adventure, and continued success. Thank you for everything you’ve given us. You’ve left the department stronger, kinder, and more inspired than you found it—and that is a legacy to be proud of.’

‘Jonathan Pope aka JP! Not only has he brought our department into the modern era of teaching, but he has created a positive culture in the department for both pupils and colleagues. JP stands up when required. He is both our shield when needed and also our sword. He strives constantly do be better and ask others around him to follow him in the same pursuit of improvement. He has been a great friend and really supported me in times of need. I will miss him greatly as will the hundreds of pupils that experienced his positivity. To strive to be better is one thing; to help others to be better and achieve their potential is a gift, and JP has this gift. Not to mention that behind the man is an incredible lady and family. We will miss Jo and micro and macro Pope too!’

Jonathan is incredibly popular with the pupils and more often than not pupils would remain behind after his lessons to chat to him or discuss further the economic concepts that he had taught them.

Portia Alford in Marlowe (6a) says, ‘Mr Pope has changed the way I, and many other pupils at King’s, think about Economics as a subject.

He never fails to keep the class engaged. It is always inspiring to be taught by someone so passionate about their subject, and to have this clearly reflected in their teaching style. Not only is this within class time, but also outside of lessons. The sheer number of booklets, revision timetables, and clinics given by the Economics Department helped me feel incredibly prepared for my exams. Mr Pope has always looked to come up with new ways to facilitate this preparation, as

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this year’s 6a’s saw with the detailed revision packs online, alongside real-world data to support our knowledge in the exam. I felt surprised by how calm I was walking into my first Economics exam, which probably says more about Mr Pope’s teaching than it does about me. He will be greatly missed by staff and pupils alike, and we wish him well with his future plans in China.’

It is testament to his commitment to King’s that within a year of joining Jonathon became the Deputy Housemaster in Tradescant and Rob Harrison has these very kind words to say about him: ‘Jonathan has been such a brilliant deputy in house for the past six years. His calm, assured and friendly manner make him a pupil’s dream deputy and a housemaster’s ideal right-hand man. Boys will share stories of his love of goats, river people and economics and many of the senior members of house will tell you that he can make anything into a conversation about economics. Personally, I can say that my job would not have been possible without Jonathan being the reliable, kind, wise and considerate man that he is. Whatever has happened I know that I will get a brilliant and thoughtful response and when he is running the house I also know that it is going to be in extraordinarily safe hands. Our loss is Luke Bartlett’s gain, and I know that whatever Jonathan goes on to do he will excel and be an invaluable team member as well as team leader.’

In 2024 Jonathan was appointed as the Assistant Head of Teaching and Learning and Matt Key says, “Although I have not known Jonathan for long, it is immediately evident that he is a deeply thoughtful and quietly inspiring teacher. His calm integrity, intellectual curiosity and tireless commitment to both pupils and colleagues have left a lasting impression. Whether in his role as Head of Economics or as Assistant Head (Teaching and Learning), Jonathan combines clarity of thought with generosity of spirit, always ready to support, challenge, and reflect. He is, at heart, a true educator. I’ve particularly enjoyed our wide-ranging conversations which span things as pedestrian as miniwhiteboards and bounce-questioning to the intricacies of curriculum design and the role of ‘joy, shock and awe’ in great teaching. Yeats once said, ‘Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.’ Jonathan has sparked that fire in classrooms and conversations alike.”

Jonathan is leaving us to take up the post of Head of Upper School at Harrow Hengqin in China, where he will no doubt continue to excel.

He will be sorely missed by staff and pupils alike and it has been an utter privilege to have been part of the Pope journey that has left behind such a positive legacy. He will be fondly remembered.

SHang jenkins

by Mrs Tanya Montague

S

hang joined us from Scotland, to which she now returns. We are undoubtedly grateful for the two years she spent with us. Having studied at fifteen schools across China and the UK before completing her degree at the University of St Andrews, Shang’s path to teaching was anything but conventional, averaging less than two years at each institution.

Although she was hired to teach Mathematics, I vividly recall someone exclaiming after her interview: ‘She teaches K-pop! The girls are going to love her!’ She didn’t disappoint on that front. Whether during Wednesday afternoon activities, the King’s Week Cultural Fair, where she coached a K-Pop band, or from a tent on Green Court just before the Ceilidh (a coincidence, perhaps, or the inevitable product of Shang’s multicultural upbringing), she impressed us with the gracefulness and energy of her moves, her knowledge of K-pop, and her patience, encouraging even the most reticent to join in.

Shang’s teaching, both inside and outside the classroom, expressed the same grace and energy. To her pupils she came across as patient and kind. She made them look forward to their lessons. In Jervis she also helped pupils with their Maths when she was on duty and gave extra lessons to those who missed theirs. Behind this calm demeanour, her colleagues would qualify her as a workhorse, spending all her time planning or marking at school and sleeping when she wasn’t. She gave her energy to her teaching without reserve. It is no wonder that puppy yoga was a mainstay of her weekends.

Perhaps shaped by her experience moving between schools and countries, or from her naturally calm, reflective and thoughtful demeanour, she made every effort to relate to the pupils under her care and support them. A fond memory of her time at Jervis was, after House Song, when the girls were dancing together in house, and she joined in with her amazing K-pop dancing. ‘So, so, cool,’ as one pupil put it. I am not sure there are many teachers who could lay claim to such a description.

Not one to say no, she volunteered for weekend trips to Bluewater with the boarders and to help raise money for the support staff charity of the term by taking part in the May Step Challenge. A lesson in never judging a book by its cover, despite her high heels, stylish attire, and, more importantly, the proximity of her flat to her classroom, the Common Room and the lunch hall leaving her at a severe disadvantage, she went out of her way each day to rack up more steps for the team.

As she moves back up to Scotland to be closer to family and start the next stage of her teaching career, I am sure she will be missed at this end of the United Kingdom by pupils, colleagues and friends. She leaves behind high-heeled shoes that will be exceptionally hard to fill—effortlessly embodying a coolness that defies imitation.

‘She leaves behind high-heeled shoes that will be exceptionally hard to fill effortlessly embodying a coolness that defies imitation.’

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