Semper Fidelis Edition 10

SEMPER FIDELIS

Geography students pick their way through a river as they make their way back to the minibuses after tourism studies in Corfe.

Annual Parade

The end of the school year marked in true Gordon’s style with the 139th Prize Giving and Annual Inspection. The 20th anniversary of China House was also celebrated! Guest of Honour was Chairman of the Gordon Foundation Lieutenant General Richard Cripwell CB CBE. While umbrellas were the order of the day, the rain failed to dampen this very special occasion in the school calendar.

Harvest Festival Parade

The Harvest Festival Parade, beginning the academic year, proved the first opportunity for the new Year 7s to take to the Parade Square, where they were warmly applauded by their peers, staff, families and friends. During the Parade, Headmaster Andrew Moss made presentations to Jonnie Summerfield, winner of the individual scratch competition of the National ISGA Schools Cup and Kian Alonso Makan, part of the Gordon’s contingent that won the Headquarters Southeast CCF Summer Camp Best Contingent during the CCF Summer Camp.

Patron’s Parade

An extra special Patron’s Parade in June, marking the continuing of the reigning Sovereign’s Patronage since Queen Victoria in 1885. The Parade honoured the new Sovereign Patron, His Majesty King Charles, who recently accepted the Patronage. Guest of Honour and inspecting the Parade, was The Right Honourable the Lord Lancaster of Kimbolton, a Trustee of Gordon’s and former Minister of State for the Armed Forces. Lord Lancaster served with the Royal Engineers, currently serves in the Army Reserves as a Major General and is Colonel Commandant of the Brigade of Gurkhas.

During his speech, Lord Lancaster spoke of the 80th anniversary of D-Day and the ups and downs in life for which, he recommended listening to Chumbawamba the 1980s band and their song Tubthumping (‘I get knocked down but I get up again’)!

The Reverend Graham Wright, Gordon’s Chaplain said the following Prayer, giving thanks for the new Patron: AlmightyGod,thefountainofallgoodness, wecomebeforeyoutohonouryourgraceandprovision intheestablishingandthrivingofourschool. TodayweparticularlygivethanksforournewPatron, KingCharlesIII.Blesshim,wepray,andallwhoarein authorityunderhim;thattheymayorderallthingsin wisdomandequity,righteousnessandpeace,tothehonour ofyourname,andforthegoodofourcountry.EnduetheKing, andalltheRoyalfamily,withyourHolySpirit.Grantus thestrengthandwilltobothknowandfollowyouandgiveusthe graceandpowertoserveoneanother.Thesethingsweprayinthe name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

PIPES AND DRUMS

It has been a busy period for the Pipes and Drums.

The Pipes and Drums were invited by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission to feature as part of their event ‘An Evening at Brookwood’ on 17th May which was in commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings; all those who were involved; and those who sadly lost their lives that day.

The Pipes and Drums concluded the event after a performance by the D-Day Darlings, and one of our pipers, Ella, had the honour of receiving the Torch of Commemoration after a minute’s silence; a symbol of passing the responsibility of commemoration from one generation to the next.

The Pipes and Drums had the unique opportunity of attending 494 Fighter Squadron’s (The Black Panthers) Change of Command Ceremony by personal request of the outgoing Commander on 7th June. It was an honour for the Pipes and Drums to be a part of the ceremony and to play ‘The Star Spangled Banner’ as well as ‘God Save the King’ as part of the ceremony following our previous visit in September the year before where we were part of their 9/11 Remembrance Service.

To honour and mark our Armed Forces Day, the Pipes and Drums had a jam-packed weekend at three different events. On the morning of Saturday 29th June, they supported The Soldier Academy’s Armed Forces Day picnic in Pirbright Village on the Green; then in the evening they went to Hungerford and led a Parade through the town to the site where Eisenhower addressed the Allied troops before the D-Day invasion. There, the Merville Battery WW2 Memorial was unveiled, and a short ceremony was held to commemorate D-Day. Pipe Corporal, Logan, played The Lament during the laying of wreaths. They then returned to Hungerford the next day to perform to spectators for the Armed Forces Day celebration held in the grounds of the rugby club.

Continuing the military theme and to support the local garrison, the Pipes and Drums featured as part of Aldershot Military Museum’s 40th birthday celebrations on 20th April. The South East Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association invited us to perform at their Silver Awards evening at Admiralty House in the Naval Dockyard in Portsmouth on 4th September. Our performance was then followed by a display from a corps of drums of the Royal Marines and we concluded the evening by marching off behind them.

Hopping up to London, this time not the weekend of the Coronation, we were invited back by the Caledonian Club to play for their Summer Ball in Belgravia. We have also continued to support our local community with some of our younger members playing to members of the public at Bisley Strawberry Fayre.

A highlight in our calendar is our trip to the Menin Gate. This is always such a special, poignant occasion and it was wonderful for the grandparent of one of our Year 13s, LilyAnn, to be able to lay a wreath as part of the service. This was her final performance with the Band and the last of four siblings to be a member of the Pipes and Drums. We visited St George’s Memorial Church where the plaque commemorating our own Gordonians who lost their lives to war is displayed. The School Chaplain, the Reverend Graham Wright held a service there and members of the Pipes and Drums gave short readings as part of the service. Pipe Major, Harry Gordon, played The Lament as part of the Act of Remembrance in the Last Post Association Service at the Menin Gate as well as at St George’s Church during the service.

May saw the inaugural Pipes and Drums solo Inter-House event. Each House submitted a soloist, either a piper or drummer, and they performed to adjudicator Roddy Livingstone. A closely fought competition with Ella Richardson winning the title for Kensington House.

Members of the Pipes and Drums returned to Glasgow in August to take part in the World Pipe Band Championships. Whilst in Glasgow, they had the chance to attend the Pre-Worlds Concert ‘Cabar Feidh’ delivered by Grade 1 Band, Peoples Ford Boghall and Bathgate Caledonia Pipe Band at Glasgow Royal Concert Hall. Returning to Buchanan Street again, they performed as part of Piping Live! at three separate locations in Glasgow City Centre on 15th August, followed by a trip up to Edinburgh to see the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo where they had the chance to go backstage and watch the Massed Pipes and Drums rehearse before they performed in the show. It was wonderful to see Gordonian, Isla Bethune, perform on the show with the Scottish and Northern Irish Yeomanry Pipes and Drums and catch up with her before the show started. On the day of the World Pipe Band Championships, Gordon’s School Pipes and Drums were up against 27 Bands from around the world. Whilst they didn’t go through in their qualifier, they played their very best, and for the first time ever with a mid-section; a performance representing their School for which they should be very proud.

Iona Scotson Senior Pipe Major

AROUND THE HOUSES

Augusta: Wins in Music, Sport, and MUN

It was a busy end to the Academic year with numerous Inter-House events, boarders’ trips, arts and musical performances, leavers’ functions, and parades. The Augusta girls continued to thrive and give their all!

On the sporting front, highlights included a win by our Year 10 and senior girls on Sports Day. Congratulations to Adaora (discus), Chantelle (shot put), and Talia (800m) for placing first in their events. We also had successes in several of our pre-Sports Day events, with nine of our students winning in their disciplines. Well done to Sukriya, Miley, Adaora, Teddy, Chantelle, Swarnim, Talia, Eva, and Aalia. Our standout performance came from Eva Flynn (Year 10), who placed first in the pentathlon while also competing in a school cricket match—a true display of dedication!

Our girls continued to excel in music during the Summer Term. Hailey Lam and Alyshea Lee were among four Gordon’s students who won the Woking Young Musician Award and received bursaries. Hailey, Junyi, and Kath attended the Arete Music Competition at Woking High School, where Junyi won the Lower School Vocal category. Many of our students also participated in the ever-popular string soirée, which showcased their remarkable talents. They should all be very proud of their achievements.

The MUN trips were popular among the girls in the House. Aashi, Monique, Arlene, and Amelie attended the MUN conference at the Royal Hospital School in Ipswich, and we were delighted that both Aashi and Amelie were awarded Highly Commended Delegate status—a fantastic achievement!

Family competitions continued, and we incorporated Mental Health Awareness Week, with the theme of Movement, into our daily family challenges. We wrapped up the week with a family volleyball tournament organized by Jasmine and Aalia in Year 10.

House trips were popular in the Summer Term, with the whole-boarding trip to Thorpe Lakes being a highlight. We were blessed with glorious weather for what turned out to be a fun day at the aqua park and zip line. Those who chose not to go in the water enjoyed relaxing on the beach area or playing games on land, before enjoying a wonderful BBQ prepared by our catering staff at the venue.

Zorb football was also a hit among the boarding community, with the boarders having great fun participating. While not much actual football took place, the students enjoyed knocking each other over in giant inflatable balls and racing in forward rolls!

We concluded the term with our leavers’ events. We bid farewell to our Year 11 and Year 13 girls with a celebratory meal at Prezzo in Farnborough to mark the end of their exams. It was a lovely evening with some emotional goodbyes, especially as many of the girls joined at the same time as Mr Mathews and I did in 2017! We have watched them grow and develop during their time at Gordon’s and are confident each and every one of them will go on to succeed in their chosen paths.

The Year 11 prom and Year 13 leavers’ meals took place in the lead-up to the end of term, and the girls looked stunning in their beautiful outfits.

Finally, we would like to thank the GSPA for their annual donation, which we used to purchase garden furniture for our Sixth Form. It was wonderful seeing the girls enjoying their new garden, especially with the soaring temperatures towards the end of term.

The new term is already in full swing, and we look forward to another memorable year in Augusta!

Angela Mathews Augusta Houseparent

Balmoral: Blossoming Friendships and Sweet Treats

As the school year begins, new friendships are blossoming, and we are thrilled to see that the new students are making the most of their time in Balmoral — it feels as though they have been part of the House for a long time already.

Balmoral is moving forward, and I am pleased with all we have accomplished as a team in my first year as Houseparent. My mantra of ‘Effort and Manners’ has been embraced by all students, and it is rewarding to see the boys working towards a common goal: striving for each other's success.

Throughout the year, the students have put in tremendous effort, growing both individually and collectively. Our family activities have fostered connections across the House, not just within their own year groups. I am proud that every student represented Balmoral or Woolwich in an Inter-House activity during the last academic year.

Rewards remain an important part of House life, with initiatives such as "Riddle of the Day," "Dorm of the Week," "Golden Tickets," and other fun ways for students to earn sweet treats or positive comments.

The year was filled with trips involving mid-week and weekend activities, both by year group and as a whole boarding community. These included outings to Thorpe Park, Thorpe Lakes, Kickx, the cinema, Coral Reef, Westfield, ice skating at Hampton Court, shopping in Reading, paintballing, crazy golf, and regular trips to Sainsbury’s for tuck essentials!

The House itself has continued to develop, and the boys have enjoyed cooking in our new kitchen. We’ve also added new lockers, a table tennis table, a PlayStation 5 with games, bed lamps and fans, and plenty of board games for everyone to enjoy.

I look forward to seeing Balmoral continue to develop and grow in the coming years. The House has a strong sense of pride among the boys, and we have received wonderful feedback from both parents and students.

In commemoration of Tom Sewell, we unveiled our new House trophy at the end of the Summer Term. This annual award will be presented to a Year 12 student based on their effort grade and contribution to the House. Tom was a beloved member of Balmoral who sadly lost his life at a young age. His mother and father joined us to present the trophy to our very deserving winner, Mitch.

Paul King

Balmoral Houseparent

Buckingham – Celebrating Athletics, Cycling, and Music

Whatan incredible end to one academic year and a strong beginning to the next for the mighty Buckingham House!

The summer’s highlight was our Year 7 to Year 11 students taking the Inter-House Athletics overall cup for the first time during my tenure. It was a true team effort, with over 60 boys representing the House on the track and field. A big shout-out to Iwan (Year 7), Caleb (Year 8), and Adam (Year 10), who led from the front, both on and off the track.

The annual event was as spectacular as ever, with the cherry on top being the Sixth Form students’ remarkable effort to retain the Steve Monk Sports Cup. Sitting in fourth place (trailing by a mere 1.5 points) before the final competition, Brayden, in his last outing in House colours, clinched victory with a stellar performance in cricket, securing the shield and catapulting us to the top of the table.

Our new crop of Year 7s has settled into Buckingham life with aplomb. They’ve become increasingly competitive around the pool and ping-pong tables as their skills continue to improve. Inter-House competitions have also kicked off with a bang: Year 7 to Year 11 took first place in the Inter-House Cycling, with Tom Barnes powering past other Houses in an impressive display of raw strength and bike-handling skills.

Hot off the presses, we also celebrated success in Inter-House music. The Buckingham band delivered a beautifully crafted and well-timed piece, showcasing an array of musical talents. Huge credit goes to Owen Knight, the mastermind and driving force behind the boys. Although we just missed first place, coming in a close second, it was a wholehearted team effort.

With the term nearly complete, Buckingham is well-positioned to continue its upward momentum through 2024 and into 2025.

Jamie Sinclair Head of Buckingham House

China Welcomes New Students and Staff

The last six months have seen our China girls once again excel at everything they put their minds to!

The Summer Term was packed with activities, including House events, family challenges, and, of course, Inter-House competitions. It was wonderful to see how much our girls had grown over the year. A new part of the Inter-House music trophy was the House song, and all our girls joined in to sing PartyintheUSA.

At the Annual Prizegiving, we were awarded the Bunbury Cup for the House with the most commendations, which is now proudly displayed in China House.

We were sad to say goodbye to our Year 13s and one of our Year 11s, but we sent them off in style, with a prom and leavers’ meals to celebrate. Our Year 11s enjoyed a meal with House staff at Zizzi’s, and our Year 13s celebrated with a glass of fizz and a meal at Pizza Express. We wrapped up the summer with a House trip to Thorpe Lakes—a wonderful way to round off the year.

September brought us ten excited Year 7s, and they are already proving to be fantastic additions to China House. They are embracing the challenges of senior school, diving into activities, and making friends. We also welcomed four new Year 12 girls who are well into their studies and joining in House life. Two new House staff have joined China: Mrs Barnes and Miss Goldhawk, and I am delighted that Mrs Neale, Miss Lee, and Miss Behan are staying with us this year.

The Inter-House competition kicked off with cycling, a new addition to the schedule last summer. Our junior team, consisting of Year 7 Grace, Year 8 Daniella, Year 9 Maeve, and Year 10s Dunni and Phoebe, cycled exceptionally well on a very wet and muddy field, finishing in third place. Our senior team of Year 12s Charlotte, Alice, Penny, Gabi, and Immy finished in a strong joint second place. The first arts competition, Inter-House music, is well underway, with Year 10 Audrey representing in the solo round. A talented harpist, she stunned the crowd and judges alike, winning first place. The group round will follow, with ten of our girls performing a Queen medley.

Our House families have been reorganised with new students and fresh family names, and they are getting to know each other and competing for rewards. Our Sixth Form girls are embracing the ‘big sister’ role, organising events such as a cups challenge, a Halloween treasure hunt, and a

quiz on how well they know the House staff! With many more challenges ahead, the leaderboard promises to change weekly.

Our Year 7s took part in the traditional hatthrowing ceremony at the Harvest Parade, and we were so proud of them as they marched past the rest of the school for the first time.

As this goes to print, we still have many competitions ahead before Christmas, and I look forward to sharing even more great news next time. I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas holiday and a Happy New Year, and I look forward to welcoming the girls back in 2025.

Heidi Doe Head of China House

Gravesend House

The Summer Term 2024 was a busy time for Inter-House competitions. Despite public examinations, we managed to fit in the Inter-House Athletics, Cricket, and Tug-of-War competitions, as well as the final round of the Inter-House Music event.

A highlight in Athletics was the outstanding performance of the Year 9 team, with a special mention to Ethan Hunter for his excellent leadership. In cricket, we won the Year 8 and Year 9 competitions and secured second place in the Year 7 event — a fantastic result! Our final ‘Family’ event of the year was a June treasure hunt, with boys from across the House enthusiastically searching for hidden plastic ducks.

The Summer Term also saw us bid farewell to our Year 13 students, as well as Daniel, Tom, and James from Year 11, who left to pursue further studies elsewhere. The Year 11 and Year 13 Proms were both memorable evenings, giving students an opportunity to celebrate their time at Gordon’s School. We hope that all those who have moved on from Gordon’s School will look back with fond memories of their time in Gravesend House.

We concluded the academic year with two special events: a whole-House trip to Thorpe Lakes, which was thoroughly enjoyable, and a lovely dinner with Year 11 students at the Cinnamon Palace restaurant in Lightwater.

The Autumn Term began with the Year 7 trip to High Ashurst, a great opportunity for the boys to bond as a team and get to know each other. The first Inter-House event of the year, Cycling, saw our Sixth Form team secure an impressive second place. The Sixth Form also enjoyed a fun evening at Top Golf, where congratulations went to Harry Wright for winning with a score of 71.

Gravesend House showcased some fantastic talent in this year’s Inter-House Music event. Congratulations to Harry for his superb performance in the solo round, placing fifth. In the group round, our band—featuring Ben, Harry, Alex, Joe, and Leo — performed a medley of Bon Jovi songs. They were a crowd favourite, though the adjudicator awarded them fourth place.

Finally, our Year 7 students enjoyed participating in their first parade and finished the half-term with a fun trip to Adventure Golf.

Gary Knight Head of Gravesend House

Kensington House: Victory in Longmoor and a Hat-trick in Tug of War

As always, the Summer Term was packed with activities and achievements, including both fun and competitive House events. In May, we celebrated our victory in the Longmoor Cup—a thrilling competition and an even better win! That same month, Year 12’s Ella Richardson won the first-ever Gordon’s School Inter-House Pipes and Drums Competition. A well-deserved result for a wonderful member of our House and the band.

After the excitement of the colour run, the long summer days brought sunny Inter-House Competitions, including Athletics and Tug of War, where the girls retained the Cup for the third consecutive year. Following exams, the proms offered a lovely chance to see our older girls arrive in all their splendour, celebrating their milestone with us over afternoon tea and cocktails. Our Year 11 and 13 girls excelled in their public exams, and we were thrilled to welcome back all but one of our Year 11 girls to the House for their Sixth Form experience in September.

The Autumn Term we welcomed wonderful new Year 7 girls, all of whom have settled in very well.

They made us proud by marching for the first time in the Harvest Parade, supported by Year 10 girls who dedicated their lunchtimes to helping them master the art of marching. The year’s first Inter-House competition was Cycling, followed swiftly by Music. Representing Kensington in the Inter-House Music Competition’s Solo and Group stages were: Kate Brazendale (soloist and group member), Ava Murray, Jemima Robinson, Ella Richardson, Naima Ben Gashir, Annabel Mansfield, Matilda Spink, Darcey Bailey, and Sitara Prasad. Together, they won the Shield for Inter-House Groups! The performance evening, just after our successful Ofsted, fittingly featured “I Will Survive” and “I’m a Survivor.”

To mark the end of the first half-term, we enjoyed pizza evenings and the Autumn House party, bringing fun and camaraderie to the House. We look forward to the excitement and challenges that the run-up to Christmas always brings, along with the hard work needed to meet academic goals. To boost our spirits, we anticipate an evening trip for ice skating at Hampton Court Palace, running the House stall at the Christmas Fayre, and even a visit from Father Christmas at our House party!

Kate Connery Head of Kensington House

Khartoum House

“Donotjudgemebymysuccess,judgeme byhowmanytimesIfelldownandgotbackup again. NELSON MANDELA

Khartoum House and the summer seem to go hand in hand. The House is a hive of activity as Inter-House events are a plenty and our new Year 12s and old Year 13s sit their GCSE and A Levels respectively.  It’s the resilience that they have shown during that period of adversity and exams that will help define them as they move onwards to the wider world. There is no limit to what Khartoum boys can achieve except the limits they place on their own thinking. The House spirit that Khartoum House posseses, enables them to prove themselves in all spheres of school life, time and time again. There are many faces that I will miss and the daily discussions, boys coming to say good morning or merely dropping in to say ‘hello’. The Year 13s who left in the summer were all greater than the sum of their parts and their results were outstanding. Many are still in touch and let us know of their travails at university, from the bottom of my heart I wish them well and every success, you will be missed but know that you are always a part of Khartoum House and always welcome.

Khartoum as always embrace everything that is thrown at them and grasp those opportunities that come their way. All have risen to the challenge! Culminating in the Headmaster’s Cup rightfully coming home to its favourite resting place for the third year in a row. The glorious hattrick was testament to the amazing effort from the boys and the teamwork that they embody and we are proud of every one of them.

Sports Day came and went, it was the last afternoon of the half term and the boys as always put on a brilliant show, the atmosphere seemed different this year, perhaps it was the lack of events.

The whole House put on a show for the rest of the school with the first Whole House singing competition, Our rendition of Wonderwall by Oasis was so good that Oasis seized upon the moment and decided to do a comeback tour!!! Make of that what you will. Once again they showed how Khartoum House spirit is second to none!

I had better not forget the tug of war as well; we won every single round, and the junior boys were simply immense bringing the trophy home. The seniors however pulled off a remarkable second place to Sandringham.  Well done boys.

Our new Year 7s started the term with our customary day at High Ashurst pushing themselves to the limits with climbing walls, high ropes and team building exercises.

I’m always amazed how Year 7s are fearless and this has also been their approach to settling into Gordon’s and Khartoum life, more importantly however were the friendship bonds that started to blossom and bode well for the future.

We did not have long to wait for our first trophy of the new year. A big congratulations to all cyclists in Inter-House cycling, a new event which the boys have taken to with vigour.

Inter-House music was split into three categories this year with a Year 11 piano maestro representing the House in the solo event. Rory Green was simply sensational and I’m always amazed at the number of instruments he can play to such a high standard.

The House group was a true reflection of how the arts can develop and build character. Group Music was tremendous fun with the boys singing Coldplay’s Viva La Vida, Ned, Elliot, Ben, Rory and David did a brilliant job getting the crowd up on their feet and I say it every year but Khartoum were robbed!!! It is always such a joy to see boys from all year groups pull together and put on such a good performance. It helped highlight how our older years can have such a positive impact on the House.

Half term provided time for a well-earned rest (everyone is tired) and recuperation for the many activities on the horizon.  Debating, Rowing, Shooting and Rugby to name but a few. I love being a part of this House and the passion and energy from the boys is amazing. But the best news is that Vanessa is back. I know all the parents are thrilled and it is so nice to have her back in the House!!!

Jonathan Griffiths Head of Khartoum House

Sandringham House

The final stretch of the academic year was packed with all the excitement the Summer Term brings!

With the highs came a few bittersweet moments and, of course, some goodbyes!

We had a blast at Sports Day, reuniting as Woolwich to compete with Balmoral, the GSPA fun day, various exciting trips, and our Annual Parade, which was wonderfully attended by many parents and past students.

Our summer weekends were full of fun, from kayaking adventures and thrilling rides at Thorpe Park to Friday night rounders and the

ultimate highlight—a whole boarding trip to Thorpe Lakes!

End-of-year dinners were a special time as we bid farewell to our Year 11 and Year 13 leavers, wishing them all the best in their next exciting chapters.

We were also thrilled to welcome Mr Blatch and Mrs Cunningham to the boarding team, though we said goodbye to Mr Hamilton after five wonderful years and Mr Roffey and Mr Boote after two. We are incredibly grateful for their energy and dedication to Sandringham.

Natalie Webb Sandringham Houseparent

Victoria House – Multiple Awards and Events

Whatan incredibly successful year our Victoria girls have had in Sports, Creative Arts, and Academics!

During the Annual Parade, our House Captain, Isla, accepted multiple awards on behalf of Victoria House: the Creative Arts Cup, the Girls' House Trophy for best average effort grade across all year groups, the Year 7 to Year 11 Headmaster’s Sports Cup, the Sixth Form Steve Monk Sports Cup, and the Rees-Graham Memorial Trophy. Their impressive success has kept us busy—and made quite a dent in our pizza fund for winners’ celebrations! A huge thank you to our 93 Victoria girls for their brilliant enthusiasm and dedication to InterHouse events.

We wrapped up the year with a fantastic Summer Term, filled with highlights like our garden opening and the colour run. Watching the girls grow both as a group and as individuals has been incredibly rewarding, and we couldn’t be prouder.

In June, we made the most of the sunny weather with a trip to Thorpe Lake Aquapark for our Year 7 to Year 10 girls. They had a fantastic time challenging themselves on the obstacle course, and it was special for us as House staff to see

them socialising so beautifully outside school.

After completing their final GCSE exams, our Year 11 students enjoyed a night out at Top Golf, while our Year 13 students celebrated the end of their A-Levels with a meal and a glass of bubbly at Cinnamon Palace. Seeing the girls dressed beautifully for their Prom and Leavers’ Ball was a moving experience, as it marked a significant milestone—and, for some, a final farewell before their next adventure.

Within the House, our family structure is now well established, with girls enthusiastically earning points for their families through activities like Mario Kart, Connect 4, Just Dance, and Scavenger Hunts.

This academic year, we’ve welcomed 24 wonderful new girls who have settled in well and are already enthusiastically joining House activities.

We started off the social calendar with our annual Sixth Form Quiz and Movie and Pizza nights, and we have plenty more in store for what promises to be another memorable year.

Marie Jones Head of Victoria House

Windsor House: Celebrating in Style

AtWindsor, we love to celebrate in style! Every week, two students receive our Windsor Junior and Senior Awards, along with a certificate and a treat in-House. We also recognise our ‘Marcher of the Week’ after drill, and the student with the most ‘Good Comments’ each week earns a Golden Boarding Ticket. This ticket enters them into the Golden Ticket Draw at the end of each term, with the chance to win a £100 Virgin Experience Day voucher.

As the Summer Term neared its end we celebrated some fantastic wins during Sports Day. It was a brilliant day where Windsor camaraderie shone through—alongside plenty of medals! Our Year 13 Leavers' Dinner and Year 11 Prom were incredibly special occasions, with students looking smooth, sophisticated, and simply stunning. We also enjoyed dining out with each year group, and the firm favourite was Tangs in Bracknell. Year 9 dove into the delicious Asian buffet, and Year 11 engaged in a friendly competition of ‘buffet plate envy’, maximizing the hightariff items! These nights out brought lots of laughter and fully satisfied appetites, giving us a chance to reflect on all we’d achieved in just one year of being a Windsor Houseparent.

We’re thrilled to have built such strong bonds with our girls, making evenings and weekends fly by with fun events. From baking in our new kitchen to our famous fire pit and s’mores nights, we make memories that last. With the new academic year, we’ve welcomed new faces, and our returning students have made them feel right at home in the Sixth Form Lodge. Our Woolwich students who’ve moved up to Year 8 have settled in brilliantly, enthusiastically joining both Inter- and Intra-House activities.

People often ask us, “What do we love about Windsor?”

The answer has to be the help and enthusiasm our girls bring. Those small moments when a student says, “Do you need any help, Miss/Sir?” stand out the most. Windsor House is preparing our students not just for life in the fast lane, but for life with integrity, helping them look after themselves and support those around them. It’s the life skills they develop day by day that truly set them apart.

We’re proud of you, Windsor—keep up the brilliant work!

Danielle Heathcote Windsor Houseparent

In the Beginning, There Was Woolwich

As the year comes to a close, our outgoing students have transformed, like butterflies, leaving with flamboyant flair, whirlwind energy, and their trademark high spirits. This group has been the most musical and dramatic cohort we've seen, filling their schedules with LAMDA and music lessons, showcasing their remarkable talents along the way. They’ve been our most energetic and spirited cohort, leaving us with a wealth of memories branded into the collective Woolwich heart as we pass them on to their senior Houses.

And in the seventh and eighth months, we rested.

Refreshed, we are delighted to welcome a new batch who are learning the ways of ‘St Gordon’. This year, we’ve introduced a Year 12 mentoring scheme, where former Woolwich students (now in Year 12!) come to support our new Year 7s through group and one-on-one sessions. This ‘older sibling’ model is thriving, allowing these seasoned students, like guardian angels, to impart their boarding wisdom.

We have high hopes for this new group, who have already shown remarkable kindness, compassion, and courage. Long may it continue.

Amen.

Sam and Daisy Cooper Woolwich Houseparents

As well as the spectacular scenery of Dartmoor, Team Gordon’s, competing in the Ten Tors challenge, were also treated to a magnificent display of Northern Lights as they camped out under canvas during the two day event. The six students joined over two thousand others in teams of six and completing their 35 miles in just over 19 hours!

Gordon’s Army CCF awarded top Contingent at the week-long CCF Army Camp in Folkstone. The group, staying at the Folkstone Academy along with students from a number of other schools, excelled in a range of activities including rafting, paddle boarding, kayaking, mountain biking, archery and axe throwing. During the camp, the Michael Hexaltine Award was made by Major John Balmer OC of the school cadet service to Kian Alonso-Makan, the most improved Gordon’s Cadet.

Not every day you get to plug the holes on a ship after a missile attack! Royal Navy Cadets put their leadership and ingenuity to the test at the Royal Navy training base at Whale Island in Portsmouth on a field day, where along with firefighting training, the Year 10 students were taught how to keep the ship from sinking after being hit by a bomb, torpedo or missile in the Damage Repair Unit.

Cold, wet and windy but Year 9’s resilience shone through as they laboured through their final expedition for their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award. The whole year group of over 100 students spent two days and one night on the Surrey Hills negotiating difficult conditions to achieve their goal.

Three days practice in the New Forest before heading along the South West Coastal Path near Swanage for their final expedition for the Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award. All 60 students completed the expedition.

Six teams in the Black Mountains chasing their Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award. The groups spent five days and four nights in the Welsh mountains navigating their way from point to point while carrying their food rations and camping equipment for their final expedition.

CO-CURRICULAR

Chess

has been a popular pastime at Gordon’s School for the past ten years. The Period 7 class on Mondays has grown from three students in 2014 to a full class of 24 students this Autumn Term. Chess for Residential Boarders is now also offered on Sundays.

There have always been Inter-House chess competitions and friendly matches organised with other schools, but in recent years more competitive chess has been arranged for the students. Regular Saturday morning English Chess Federation (ECF) rated tournaments take place four times a year, giving students at Gordon’s the opportunity to pit their chess skills against local juniors in Surrey. ECF ratings from the tournament give students a measure of progress in chess playing ability. Gordon’s have

help from Camberley Chess Club members, who welcome students from the school as members.

This year Gordon’s School has entered the Briant Poulter Surrey Schools Chess League for the first time, so will be competing against Surrey schools, in Guildford, Sutton, Kingston and Hampton.

Students will play two games each, both away and at home, on Friday evenings after school. It is exciting to see how well students at Gordon’s perform.

If any student is interested in playing competitive chess at Gordon’s school then Mr Jon Lloyd JLloyd@gordons.school would be delighted to hear from them.

Some of the world’s most pressing issues debated by 24 MUN (Model United Nations) delegates from Gordon’s School at Reigate Grammar. These delegates, ranging in age and experience, were involved in very fruitful debate, representing China, Syria, Mexico and Egypt. Some tough discussions on resolutions about The Preservation of Native Languages and the Colonisation of Outer Space were particular highlights of the day.

There were new faces representing Gordon’s MUN team at the Royal Hospital School

in Ipswich, but despite it being their first conference, and in committees of 30+ experienced students, they bagged Best Delegate and Outstanding Delegate, with a further Outstanding Delegate awarded to a veteran Gordon’s MUN student!

At the Royal Russell MUN, the largest MUN conference in the calendar, 14 delegates and one chair competed in large committees over the four day conference with four Outstanding Delegates Awards made to Gordon’s delegates.

The inspirational story of how Lance Sergeant Jamie Roberts ended up in the Welsh Guards was told to Sixth Form students at a ‘Dine and Discuss’ event. Lance Sergeant Roberts joined the Army as a bet and surprised himself by finding a passion for life in the military. In his 18 years with the Welsh Guards, he has travelled across the globe, seen action in Afghanistan and Iraq, performed ceremonial duties and continued his love of sport and outdoor activities. His key advice to students was to try and find their passion; to feel the fear and do it anyway, and

that one is often more capable than one thinks.

The second Dine and Discuss event of the term heard from Chris Dyson of Chris Dyson Architects LLP, who specialises in historic conservation, residential and larger scale cultural and commercial architecture.

As well as hearing from invited guests, students are able to discuss and question them afterwards over dinner.

Enjoying the beautiful scenery of Surrey Heath, our Period 7 cross country runners. Students have over 128 co-curricular activities to choose from ranging from Brazilian Jujitsu to Debating.

A day of Unity collaboration and an opportunity to learn from students from Cox Green School, who visited for discussions and presentations with Unity Ambassadors from Gordon’s Unity Society. The society raises awareness, educates and addresses racial inequality as well as celebrating different cultures. The students from Cox Green have long been involved in Unity and have been sharing their experiences and advice as well as hearing what is planned for the Unity Society at Gordon’s.

They’ve never been to Bristol City Centre before, so two Year 10 students came up with the idea of cycling there! For Conan Lam and Oliver Roberts the 114 plus mile bike ride was their longest trip to date and they hoped to raise the final sum needed for the Camelthorn Foundation to build the girls’ boarding house at the Ngamo School in Zimbabwe.

Oliver planned the route along disused railway lines and canals through Berkshire, Wiltshire and Somerset, and the two of them took ten hours, raising over £1,000 for the charity.

Hundreds of students sent all over the county and country to make a difference. The annual MAD (Make A Difference) Day saw 430 students aged between 11 and 17, clearing graves and churchyard gardening at Bisley and Holy Trinity Churches; litter-picking on Brentmoor Heath, Littlehampton beach, West Wittering beach and Newland’s Corner, visiting residents at Princess Christian Care Centre, Horsell Lodge Care Home and White Lodge; helping with activities for children at Carwarden House School and Tringham Pre-School and much, much more!

Thelast academic year was celebrated through our annual GCSE and A Level Art and Photography exhibitions, where we proudly displayed all the hard work created by our Year 11 and Year 13 students. They were spectacular as always and highly attended by many families and friends of the students.

Summer Arts was another huge success with a wide range of art work from all year groups up for sale, creating £1,427.23 in sales, with £285.23 going back in to the Creative Arts provision this year.

Our Big Art  Period 7 group continued to create excellent pieces of work for the library, and a new tryptic hangs above one of the windows. In addition to this, the large display of Karl Blossfeldt inspired charcoal and ink drawings are now displayed outside the Art Department.

We had success again with the Young Artist's Summer Show at the Royal Academy of Arts London, with Art Scholar Tosin Osinibi being accepted onto the online exhibition this year. With only 2% of entries being selected, this is another huge achievement for Gordon's. The image 'Echoes of Presence' (see page 46) represents Tosin in her dorm room taking part in activities that are most important to her - socialising online, making art and studying.

Poppy Wilson

Zaidi Iscandari Poppy Johnson

Gemma Jones

Dylan Bannister

Tabby Daubney

India Gleed

Heather Eagle

Tom McNair

Thenew term has got off to a flying start in music with three orchestral trips undertaken within the first six weeks. The Semper Fidelis Singers is now a fully mixed SATB (Soprano, Alto, Tenor and Bass) choir who performed fantastically well at the recent Parade Services and Evensong. In addition, they have been enjoying workshops with Katherine DienesWilliams who is Director of Music at Guildford Cathedral and performed evensong at Guildford Cathedral in November alongside the cathedral choir.

In October, we enjoyed 21 fabulous piano performances at our piano recital and later in the month the extremely high musical standard was maintained at the Inter-House solo competition, not to mention the annual Inter-House group competition, for which all the houses prepared, diligently, for many weeks.

Our composers enjoyed a fantastic workshop at the highly acclaimed Yehudi Menuhin School and over 30 Year 7 singers have already been recruited into the two junior choirs. Rehearsals are well underway for our four Christmas Carol Services in December. Instrumental Music goes from strength to strength in the form of our orchestral and chamber music programme with four chamber groups now rehearsing each week in readiness for the Pro Corda (National Chamber Music Festival for schools) competition. The school orchestra and string orchestra is preparing some outstanding pieces for the Spring Concert, including two concerto movements and our three jazz bands are also working hard to prepare for this event, along with another major performance next term.

Lifein the Sixth Form annex of one of the boarding Houses, depicted in a painting by Art Scholar Oluwatosin Osinibi, was selected by the Royal Academy of Arts for their online Young Artists Exhibition in the Summer. Oluwatosin’s A2 oil painting ‘Echoes of Presence’ shows three self portraits of the Year 12 student, socialising online, drawing, and working in her bedroom. Currently studying A Levels in Art, Physics and Maths, Oluwatosin created the painting during her 1:1 scholar sessions and it is one of 500 selected from 21,500 submissions. She said: “At that point in time I was doing a lot of selfportraits and I wanted to do something that explored my identity and who I am in one picture”.

Dancehas had a busy summer. We started our Summer Term with being invited to participate in the Blenheim School Dance Show. Selected students were taken to perform at the Epsom Playhouse with Blenheim. It was a great experience for the dancers to get on stage and they represented the school brilliantly, with multiple students and members of staff having nothing but good things to say about the Gordon’s Dancers; both in their dance ability and their behaviour.

We also performed multiple pieces at the Summer Arts Evening. These included some work from our Dance Show in March, as well as some musical theatre pieces from 'The Book of Mormon' and 'The Choir of Man'. Our 'Choir of Man' piece was choreographed by Henry Shine, who is a cast member in the show. He came and delivered an excellent workshop for the Dance and Musical Theatre Scholars.

Finally, we had a successful run of auditions for our first ever Dance Scholar, Lily Ann Prince. She received multiple offers from various prestigious schools, but accepted a place at 'Performers College' which she was offered on the day of her audition. We wish Lily Ann the best of luck in the future.

ACADEMIC

ALevel students recorded another outstanding set of results, with over two fifths of themachieving A*-A grades. BTEC students both at Diploma and National Diploma level, also excelled with 88% achieving a Merit + and 53% a securing Distinction or above.

Among those celebrating were Oxbridge candidates Jack Brinkman and Elizabeth Bailey who gained places to study Engineering and German, respectively and Ayaan Asif, Emma Cheng, John Binu Jacob and Alex Travers secured medical school places.

Four students were awarded overseas sports scholarships:  Freddie Fenton (football), Harry Mayhew (football), Luke Pedreschi (rugby) and Cara Faulkner (hockey) and six gained places at music/drama schools - Lily Ann Prince, Faith Kurzberg, Alice Kermeen, Georgina Fowler, Killian Smith and Emily Hallett.

Degree apprenticeships were secured by:  Peter Hamilton (pilot school), Georgia Winter (construction), Tamara Dlamini (banking), Jex Kidd (e-commerce), Lyla Gilbert (law).

A Level 2024

40% of entries were graded A* - A

71% of entries were graded A* - B

88% of entries were graded A* - C

Average performance per student – BBB

BTEC 2024

53% of entries were graded D*-D

88% of entries were graded D*-M

GCSE 2024

51% of entries were graded 9-7

84% of entries were graded 9-5

93% of entries were graded 9-4

79% of students achieved a ‘strong’ pass, 5 or better, in both English and maths, with 89% of students achieving the historic ‘gold standard’ of five or more (standard, 4) GCSE grades, including English and maths.

The Average Total Attainment 8 - 64.4

The Average Attainment 8 Grade - 6.44

Almost half the year group achieved the English Baccalaureate (EBacc), with the average point score (EBacc, APS) of 5.94

2024 GCSE Value-Added - estimated PROGRESS 8 is 1.08 and ALPS 1.14, top 5% nationally.

Among the delighted students was the school’s Head of Modern Foreign Languages, Simon Depoix who achieved a 9 in his Mandarin GCSE!

The year group was also the largest contingent to stay on at Gordon’s with a record 77 per cent going on to the Sixth Form.

their

Everest climber, explorer, film maker and children’s fiction author Matt Dickinson gave students workshops and talks about his adventures and writing. Mr Dickinson, who has survived an avalanche, killer storm in the 'death zone' and a beaver attack, spoke to students about going out of their comfort zone and his experience on expeditions to Everest and Antarctica and Nepal.

Overlooking Corfe on their last day after walking across the down.

Making

way back to the buses after tourism studies in Corfe.

River studies in the New Forest.

Now in its tenth year, the German exchange welcomed 18 students and two teachers from the Lise-Meitner-Gymnasium at the end of September.

All students are paired up with a pen pal in Year 10 and many chose to turn their virtual friendship into a real one and take part in the exchange! The 18 students arrived just in time for exeat which

gave them and their host families a chance to sightsee, which included trips to London, Windsor and Thorpe Park! During the school week, the German students shadowed their English partners to all their lessons and Period 7s, with many of the German boys enjoying playing rugby for the first time! The feedback from the teachers and students was universally positive. Gordon’s students will visit Germany in December.

A week of Science enrichment activities for Year 8, who were treated to a whole range of fascinating events including birds of prey on the back field and making fireworks in the laboratory!

A taste of life at Oxford University for Year 10 students, who experienced a day in the life of a student in Brasenose College. A tour of the College, with its cobbled streets and limestone edifices was followed by lunch at High Table.  Undergraduates from the college talked about entry requirements, life and study at Oxford and there was an opportunity to enjoy a handling session of various species in the majestic Natural History Museum.  The day gave students an insight into what Oxbridge life is about and may have sown the seed for future endeavours.

A day of Maths for students in Years 7-9, who took on students from Blenheim High School in an Arete Team Maths Challenge. The two teams went head to head in various mathematical tasks with Gordon’s narrowly coming out on top. Great fun and many new friendships made with our Arete partner school.

An unforgettable day for Year 8 students, who attended the Founder’s Day Parade at the Royal Hospital Chelsea today with Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal reviewing the Parade of Chelsea Pensioners. The students, dressed in their ceremonial Blues uniform, were chosen for their marching skills. The annual Parade in London remembers King Charles II who issued a Royal Warrant for the foundation of the hospital and commissioned Sir Christopher Wren to design it. The Parade also coincided with the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings in France.

Ready for Winter! The iconic statue that has looked out over the Front Field for over 60 years is having its Autumn maintenance work carried out. This involves steam cleaning and treating the stone work and waxing the bronze to guard against water damage. The statue sunk in both the Thames and Nile Rivers prior to its arrival here and needs twice yearly visits from Bronze Sculpture Surgeon Jayne Meadows and her team to preserve it.

Afascinating insight into two of the Surrey Heath Parliamentary Candidates in the May General Election as Alasdair Pinkerton for the Liberal Democrats and Ed McGuinness for the Conservative Party joined Sixth Form students. Topics discussed included lowering the voting age to 16; encouraging young people to vote; national service and tuition fees. Afterwards the candidates and their agents spent time answering questions and discussing issues with students involved in the parallel Gordon’s General Election. While Dr Pinkerton became the first Liberal Democrat MP in Surrey Heath for 49 years, his party failed to win the Gordon’s elections which saw the Green Party storm to victory with a landslide win for Esther Griffiths’s party who won over a third of the votes!

EVENTS

Lining up to vote in the Gordon’s General Election in May.

Before they even set foot in a classroom, the whole of Year 7 are whisked off to the Surrey Hills for high ropes, abseiling and plank walking! The day’s team building helps build friendships and smiles. The early days of their new school also include learning to march, getting fitted for their ceremonial Blues uniforms and performing for their parents and the rest of the school in their first march, during the Harvest Festival Parade.

Having just put their pens down for the Physics GCSE, it was on to the Front Field with permanent markers for the Year 11 students for shirt signing!

Year 11 Prom

Tuk Tuks mingled with performance and vintage cars and motorbikes as students from Year 11 attended their Prom.

Their GCSEs behind them, it was a chance for the year group to return to school, make an entrance, dress up, and enjoy an evening with their peers and staff over a meal in a marquee in the school grounds.

A waiting crowd of parents and students around the red carpet on the school’s Parade Square greeted every vehicle with cheers, while Master of Ceremonies, Paul Curley welcomed each student.

A tractor, complete with trailer transported the first group of students, then followed a steady stream of every conceivable vehicle, including one pulled by Head of House Jamie Sinclair!

Brother and sister Tom and Olivia Peak in a vintage ice cream van, proved particularly popular on the lovely Summer’s evening as they hurled ice lollies and wrapped ice creams into the appreciative crowd on arrival.

Tom Peak had asked his sister to join him for his big moment as she had missed out on her Prom at Gordon’s due to the Covid Lockdown.

For some, the Prom and formal dinner marked the end of their journey at Gordon’s, for others it was the finale to their time in the Lower School and a prelude to joining the Sixth Form in September.

Year 13 Leavers’ Dinner

With their A Levels behind them, a chance for the Year 13s to dress up and enjoy their Leavers’ Dinner with the staff that have supported them on their journey. The Front Field a glorious mass of colour for a very special summer evening.

NEWS FROM

Commemorating

130 years since the opening of the School Chapel of St Edward the Confessor. The Chapel is dedicated to the Duke of Clarence and Avondale, the Prince of Wales’ eldest son and a supporter of the Gordon Boys’ Home, who died in a flu epidemic in 1892. The building was instigated by Queen Victoria and among those attending the opening ceremony, led by the Bishop of Winchester on May 21st 1894 was the Prince of Wales and General Gordon’s youngest sister Helen Moffitt. In the week of the anniversary, the School Chaplain, the Reverend Graham Wright held special commemorative Services in the Chapel for students during which he spoke about the history of the Chapel and boys’ home. As part of the commemorations, the plaque on the wall of the Chapel has been renovated.

A time for reflection in the beautiful grounds of Loseley House, Chapel and Barn for the candidates prior to their confirmation in May in the school Chapel by the Bishop of Dorking, the Right Reverend Paul Davies. The students, accompanied by the School Chaplain, the Reverend Graham Wright, also took part in Bible study and Holy Communion.

THE PEWS

SPORTS

Badminton at Gordon’s School is more than just a sport – it’s a community where every student, whether beginner or seasoned player, can find their place. On Mondays during Period 8, non-squad players have the chance to enjoy the game, have fun, and develop their skills in a relaxed, supportive environment. It’s a time for everyone to encounter the joy of badminton, regardless of experience.

For our dedicated squad players, Wednesdays during Period 7 are all about sharpening techniques, building team dynamics, and preparing for competitive play. These sessions are designed to challenge and elevate each player, helping them reach new levels of performance.

Saturday mornings bring the excitement of fixtures against other schools, both home and away, where our squad players put their training

into action. These matches offer not only competition but also friendship and the thrill of representing Gordon’s School with pride.

In a testament to our commitment to the sport, Gordon’s School has taken on the responsibility of organising a local league, ensuring our squad players have regular, competitive fixtures with other schools. This initiative not only strengthens the local badminton community but also provides our players with invaluable experience and the chance to showcase their skills on a larger stage.

At Gordon’s School, badminton is a growing force, and we are proud to be leading the way in creating more opportunities for our players to succeed and thrive.

Matthew Gullick Head of Physical Education

A mesmerising five wickets for seven runs by left hand spin bowler Libby helped Gordon’s secure a place in the finals in the Surrey Schools’ Cricket Association (SSCA) County Cup for the U17 side. Gordon’s set Reigate Grammar School a target of 108-6 and in response, RGS were 96 all out. During the run up to the finals, the girls won against Surbiton High, City of London Freemen’s and Kingston Grammar.

Runs and wickets for two Gordon’s students, selected to play for the Surrey Schools’ Cricket Association (SSCA) on the hallowed turf of The Kia Oval. Leg spinner Hridaan Kohli and allrounder top order batsman Tom Norman, both on Bedser Scholarships, were playing against the ACE Academy in the Hobbs Trophy Match. Hridaan bowled three overs for two wickets (both in the first over) and six runs. Tom opened the batting, scoring over 30 runs.

The May Bank Holiday weekend saw 26 students take to their bikes in Wales on the Gordon’s MTB (Mountain Bike) Forest of Dean and Wales Tour.

The group, staying in the medieval St Briavels Castle, cycled the downhill trails at BikePark Wales near Merthyr, and rode part of Offa’s Dyke on a Wye Valley ride.

On the way back they stopped off to bodyboard at The Wave in Bristol .

MTB racing is now included in the Inter House competition racing around our school field and woodland trail.

Once every month, Gordon’s cyclists head off to the Reading Velodrome to train on road bikes and fixed wheels with Palmer Park Velo.

Around 50 students from Years 7-11 regularly ride during their Period 7 activity on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

Mondays and Thursdays are a mixture of riding MTBs on the heath, and coaching core handling skills on the MTB circuit, and spinning and Zwifting in the Cycle Studio on bad weather days.

Saturdays are usually spent down-hilling the varied trails in Swinley Forest mainly heading for the riders’ favourites Jubilee, Babymaker, Berminator, Bikini Carwash and Deerstalker.

David Butler, Head of Cycling

Athletics

During the summer, we had one of our most successful athletics season to date. In the KS3 district championships, over 15 students achieved a total of 28 medals, leading to our Year 9 girls winning gold and Year 9 boys and Year 7 girls winning silver overall. In the KS4 districts, the girls finished with a bronze and boys won silver overall.

At senior level, we had multiple competitions against various schools, a first for Gordon’s to be competing at this age group. The team were fantastic and remained undefeated throughout. In addition to this, we had numerous athletes selected to represent the county, as well as two individuals, Teddy Gannon (England and GB) and Nerys Tullet (Wales) selected for their countries. Ian Jones, Deputy Director of Sport

The2023-2024 season was an all round success for Gordon’s football teams. The senior boys’ teams won their league and finished in the last eight in the national cup. The side also managed to reach the semi finals of the county cup. The junior sides also saw much success in their cup competitions, coming out on top of their weekly Saturday block fixtures. The girls’ football sides have seen amazing growth and development, managing to enter into three cups over the year.

For the 2024-2025 season the focus is on developing a new senior side and welcoming many new players into this ever-growing school.

The junior teams have kicked off the year with some great cup matches and more to come. The girls’ football teams across the year groups are once again developing at a rapid rate with training and matches being played almost every week.

With many upcoming fixtures for this season, best of luck to all the boys’ and girls’ sides.

Matt Nash, Head of Football

Hundreds of talented rugby players have applied for a place on the Harlequins Partnership Programme for their Sixth Form. The programme provides them with the opportunity to play in the ACE League and excel under high quality coaching and individual support. Pictured here are some of those students attending a rugby assessment morning at Gordon’s, which was followed the next day by a second assessment for shortlisted students.

Thehockey term is now in full swing. We have had fantastic numbers representing the school so far this academic year. From the four senior squads all the way down to the U12Ds, it’s been great to watch. The Year 7s have embraced the sport and are showing great promise. The U12As enjoyed a triumphant 11-0 win against Woldingham School. The U15As put on a strong display at the Lord Wandsworth 7s, winning four out of their five matches.

As always, the 1st XI girls are a hardworking and competitive squad. So far this term, they have played 13 fixtures, winning ten, drawing one and losing two. They have already scored over 50 goals. Five players have joined the squad this year and have all made a positive impact. Bella

Pio leads the way on 18 goals scored, hunting down her target of 30 goals for the season.

The indoor senior squad have had success, qualifying for the county finals. The girls have been practising their indoor skills every Thursday morning at 7am!! Truly bleeding green.

Alice Clark, Michela Ferdinando and Phoebe Schollick have been selected for this year’s England Hockey Talent Academy and Sid Mathur for the Boys’ squad while Charlotte Keigher and Lily Duffy have been selected to represent Surrey Hockey.

Matt Boote Head of Hockey

Gordon’s School Golf Teams

Gordon’s A, B and C golf teams: Back Row: Will Lawrence, Lewy Lawrence, Zach Mathews, Ben Lovell, Barnaby Gough, Max MacDonald.

Front row: Pedro Lemos (PGA Coach), Charlotte Jean, Dylan Mumford, Fraser Brammall, Alex Ozer, Felix Labaki and Sophie Mardani.

Tennisis now firmly established among the sports programmes at Gordon’s and 2023/24 marked the first year students have trained and competed in all three terms of the academic year. I am delighted to report that we now have a partnership with Bagshot Tennis Club, which provides our senior teams and scholars with all weather training facilities throughout the year and access to high quality coaching, as well as a home venue for fixtures. The school courts and West End Tennis Club continue to be used for Period 7 sessions, allowing more students than ever to participate in the sport. In the LTA national and county competitions, our senior teams have recorded wins over St

Catherine’s Bramley, St George’s Ascot and Lord Wandsworth College, while competitive match arrangements with schools like Charterhouse and St John’s Leatherhead continue to develop. Our Year 9 and 10 boys’ team also deserve a mention for another strong showing in the LTA Youth Schools competition, including a battling fixture against Claremont Fan Court in atrocious conditions. With new scholars and a healthy team programme in place, the new term has started well and we are looking forward to more fixtures in the near future.

Mark Eaden Head of Tennis

ISGA British Schools and Colleges

National Finals at Belton Woods GC

Gordon’s School won the British Schools and Colleges National Nett Competition for the second consecutive year in May. 17 teams of four qualified for the National Finals. Gordon’s B team first place 447 points: Zach Mathews, Fraser Brammall, Charlotte Jean and Max MacDonald. Zach Mathews finished third in the individual Nett with 146. Lewy Lawrence fourth with 149.

“Gordons Marksmen master the fundamental principles of rifle musketry enabling them to competently and expertly operate any rifle.”

Period 7 and 8 rifle marksmanship is starting to thrive.

From next term there will be an increase from 24 to 32 places a week for students to try the sport of firing small calibre (.22RF rounds) and learn the basic skills.

The additional eight places are intended for Year 7, 8 and 9 students to learn under the civilian regulations.

Alongside this, typically a section of cadets are learning the basics most Tuesdays.

Following the success enjoyed by Gordon’s students with marksmanship at the annual CCF camp, a team has been formed to train weekly, captained by Jess, to prepare to compete at the National Cadet Championships with the

L98A2 military rifle in October 2025.

The team has been practicing in school, on the gallery ranges at Bisley, as well as at 100, 300 and 600 yards with both Iron-sighted and Telescopic rifles of both historic and ultra-modern types firing .303in, 5.56mm and 7.62mm ammunition.

Against other schools, team members have competed in one .22RF friendly match so far this year, comporting and acquitting themselves well. More are to follow.

Last year the team competed in the National Cadet ‘Country life’ Competition placing in the middle of the pack at 22nd.

Entry into the Spring action, Phoenix and Imperial competitions are intended for this academic year by members of the team in their personal disciplines.

Dr Nick Driver Head of Shooting

Strong start to the netball season for our newly formed Elite Performance Programme. The 1st team won the Cup Final, and our 2nds made it to the Plate Semi-final at our invitational tournament, and were voted Team of The Week by Mr Moss and Mr Harrison.

World Schools Netball Cup

Our U15 and U13 (now U16 and U14) netball squads travelled to Loughborough for the World Schools Netball Cup. A residential trip, consisting of three days of netball. Well done to the U13 team who won the Bowl competition, beating Truro 26-11 in the final, and our U15s who also made the Bowl final.

National Competitions so far…

The following squads won the first round(s) of their respective competitions, and have the following to come:

1st – Round 2 National Cup and County Finals

2nd – Round 2 National Bowl

U15A – Round 3 National Cup and County Finals

Good luck to U16A, U14A, & U13A who are now in the National Bowl competition.

Congratulations to the 1st and U15A who also finished 1st and 2nd respectively at the Surrey Tournament, qualifying them for County Finals in March. We have upcoming county qualifiers for U12, U13, and senior 2nds.

Well done to our U12’s who have won their first two friendly netball matches for Gordon’s – a great start to their netball journey!

Nicole Humphrys Head of Netball

Sports Dinner and Netball being awarded Team of the Year!

The 1st Netball team were awarded team of the year for not only their success at County, Regional and National level, but for fostering a culture that extended beyond their own team. They significantly gave back to the Gordon’s community, coaching, umpiring and being great role models for our younger students. They have left a legacy after finishing sixth in the country at England Netball’s National Finals.

Silver for Marley O’Toole, representing Great Britain in the U14 European and Africa Wakeboarding Championships in France. His latest success brings his tally of medals to three after he won gold at both the UK Boat and Cable Nationals. Marley, who is the only rider in Great Britain to be included in both the GB Boat and Cable Teams, also made sixth place in the IWWF Cable World Championships this in France.

Two first places in international competitions for U20 discus thrower Teddy Gannon who now ranks number one in England and number 15 in Europe! Combining his athletics with A Levels, the 18 year old, competed for Great Britain in the Loughborough International Athletics followed by the Pickering Memorial Throws International, where he achieved a personal best with a throw of 55.82 metres.

Areturnto the hallowed turf at Lord’s cricket ground for Izzy Moors and Abi Shaw-Hales, two leading lights of the Gordon’s girls’ cricket team and Valley End Cricket Club, who also turn out for the MCC Foundation Guildford Hub.

The Guildford Hub, one of 126 hubs in the UK to take part in the MCC National Hub Competition, once again reached the finals at Lord’s with Abi Shaw-Hales captaining the side once more.

After a thrilling encounter, Guildford beat Bradford by four wickets, becoming the first team in the history of the competition to win two consecutive finals! The girls were presented with their medals by England Captain Heather Knight.

Reflecting on the lead up to the finals, Abi said: “We had a strong team again this year, and were hopeful that we could do it.  Due to rain and concessions, we didn’t play as many game as in previous years though”.

She paid tribute to Izzy’s contribution to the final score, for her “great bowling” which kept the opposition’s run rate low and described captaining a “great team” as the “highlight”.

She added: “There is always an excitement about walking out onto the pitch at Lords - something you never forget.  It was nerve wracking as we were going in as defending champions.  Our opposition had won the competition in 2021, so we knew it would be a tough match.  We wanted to be the first team to win it in two consecutive years!”

Introduced to swimming when she was just three months old, Sophia Bastajian, now 11 years old, is making waves in artistic swimming (formerly known as synchronised swimming). She and her twin sister Katie train eight hours every week either on land for flexibility and core strength or in the water, where they work on figures and routine. They are both heading towards competing in the National Age groups this season. Sophia has recently achieved Grade 2 in both figures and routine and was awarded the Barbara Field Award by her club, the Rushmoor Artistic Swimming Club. She says: “The big dream is to compete at the Olympic Games. You have to be committed to doing it and put the time and effort into it”.

Charlotte Lill Representing Scotland

Picked for both the Scotland U19 Netball squad and the Surrey Storm U21 squad, Charlotte Lill is also performing for Gordon’s as a Gordon’s netball scholar and studying for three A Levels!

Charlotte’s journey began playing club netball and it was whilst playing at Wellington based B’s, that she caught the eye of a Scotland Pathway coach.

Her schedule now includes monthly camps in Scotland, twice-weekly sessions with Surrey Storm, in addition to school-based practice, skill sessions, and strength and conditioning both in and out of school.

“Balancing A Levels with sport requires a lot of time management,” Charlotte acknowledges. “But I’m gradually finding my rhythm.”

A seasoned goalkeeper, Charlotte’s has been playing netball for eight years and yet is amazed at her recent remarkable success surprising even herself. Initially uncertain about her U19 trials for Surrey Storm, she was astounded when asked to trial for the U21s and even more so when told she had been selected!

She credits Gordon’s netball program and training for playing a pivotal role in her progress. “The training program is fantastic, and our team is made up of the most amazing girls.”

Natalie Gregory: Taking Up The Whistle

Diminutive, slight and softly spoken, it’s difficult to believe that Natalie Gregory commands a field of towering rugby giants as a referee.

As a member of the London Society of Rugby Football Union Referees (LSRFUR), she referees for men, women and children, and she has stepped out as an assistant referee on the hallowed grounds of The Stoop and and Surrey Sports Park. The Gordon’s School A Level student is also in demand for school games!

She grew up on the touchlines of Chobham Rugby Club, watching her younger brother play before donning the red and yellow shirt for the girls when she was eight years old (she still plays for the U18s and women’s team at Chobham!). Her parents joined in the action too, with her mother playing walking rugby and father touch rugby.

Almost two years ago, she took the ‘Take up the Whistle’ course with the LSRFUR, then achieved her Level 2 England Rugby Referees Award (ERRA) qualification.

Since joining the society, she has refereed all sorts of games, from U14 boys to women’s games and now even men’s games, spending her weekends and any available time on the pitch. It’s fair to say that rugby and refereeing have become her passion: “You meet so many people and there are so many opportunities for young match officials”, she enthuses, “I love the rugby culture”, adding: “If you are a girl that loves rugby and is looking for leadership opportunities, it’s perfect!”

CAREERS

For would-be vet Chloe, the afternoon at the Surrey Festival of Skills offered the chance to find out about career pathways for her dream job – and hold a snake! For other Year 12 and 13 students there were boundless opportunities to discover their next steps, from businesses, training and apprenticeship providers under one roof. The event was one of many being attended by students as part of Gordon’s Careers Week.

Hands on experience for students as part of the Gordon’s Careers Programme

Both Year 8 and Year 10 students were among the first in Surrey to visit Gatwick Airport’s brand new STEM centre, where they were joined by engineers, HR diectors and runway control operators to support them in their understanding of aviation careers .

Would-be musicians in Year 10 musicians had the opportunity to lay down their own tracks and work on post production at Powerhouse Recording Studios whilst, our sports focussed students were supported by Lightwater Leisure Centre.

Year 12 Students were hosted by the DP World Tour at Wentworth Golf Club where they were introduced to the myriad careers in golf and impressed with the brief they presented in the afternoon workshops, whilst the Year 9 Interview Skills project culminated with guests from industry who were invited to grill our students in interview and appoint their preferred candidate,

offering a glimpse of the world of work.

We have welcomed speakers from Deutsche Bank, Surrey Police and KBR Engineering and Year 12 enjoyed the first of three Dine and Discuss events this year with Chris Dyson Architect, building cultural capital. Explorer Matt Dickinson spoke about his summit of Everest and his work as an author and Year 13 Media Studies students were very fortunate to spend a day with ZAK Agency at BBC Television Centre in London, where they all got a taste for the world of creative media (and an excellent breakfast!).

CAREERS

With so much ahead for the year, we remain enormously grateful to have the support of so many to inspire and guide our young people and would like to thank all those who have been and continue to be involved.

Augusta Kennedy Careers Lead

SIXTH FORM

Cultural Arts Day for Year 12 students who were being introduced to a multitude of cultures and faiths as well as learning about yoga, Indian dance, Ghana drumming and Meedu Peace through Knowledge. Olympian Marilyn Okoro talked about her track and field career and faith, and also put students through their paces!

As well as learning the academic ropes of the school, new Sixth Form students joined together for some team building on the Front Field and a BBQ lunch. A great way to get to know each other and the school.

Tackling crisis management, senior student leaders in Year 12, who are studying for their Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) Level 3 along with students from Blenheim High School. The ILM awards are industryrecognised and develop a range of skills and behaviours in leadership, selfmanagement and mentoring.

Changing car wheels on the Parade Square, students in Year 12, as part of their Open Study sessions. The students will also learn how to cook for university; sew and install a flat screened TV on to a wall!

INTER-HOUSE COMP

The thrills and spills of InterHouse Athletics, a celebration of track and field, which included discus, high jump, low jump and tug of war. Buckingham and Victoria Houses triumphed in the Main School competition with Victoria and Sandringham Sixth Form winners.

ETITION

If ever there was an example of ‘having a go’, it was the Inter-House Music! Every student in every House took part, whether they could sing (or not!), and the music couldn’t have been more varied. From Shine Jesus Shine to Party in the USA, the students rocked the Front Field with their energy and enthusiasm. Kensington with ‘Sinceyou’veBeenGone’ was awarded first place in this inaugural music competition with Sandringham’s ‘Three Lions’ coming in a close second.

Ghostly goings on in the most eerie of Inter-House competitions, the pumpkin carving! Thanks to Boz Fruit and Veg for donating the pumpkins, each House produced a unique Halloween horror. Windsor’s grisly group took first place with Balmoral’s cheeky M&Ms bagging second place and the youngest in the school, in Woolwich House took third place with their Minions. Not to be out done, Receptionist Charlotte Regan produced a Gordon’s crest.

In the Dining Hall, the Catering Department put on the most fabulous display for students and staff on the last day of the half term. As well as decorating the hall, they produced a wonderful array of terrifying treats for lunch including mozzarella ghosts and sausage fingers!

Buckingham were voted masterchefs in the Inter-House Rustle Up with their elegant tarte tatin and Chelsea bun cake proved the ultimate tasty treat for Judges Julio and Sophie and the Catering Department. In second place were Victoria’s pasta followed by iced cup cakes hitting the spot. For third place were China and Gravesend. Students were able to choose from a range of ingredients for their dish, which had to contain cinnamon. Some ingenious combinations were executed with culinary flair by all.

STAFF

Swapping pots, pans and ingredients for guns, tyres and blindfolds, the Catering Department held their own team building under the direction of Mr Fox! As well as cadet training in the shooting range, the team has been building (and dismantling!) gun carriages and taking part in a series of cerebral and physical activities. Great fun had by allbut still the Year 8 record of many years ago for the tyre challenge remains unbeaten!

Her students have always known she’s a fantastic teacher, and now it’s officially recognised! Gurdeep Bilkhu, Head of Psychology and Sociology, has been honoured with a Certificate of Excellence in the Pearson National Teaching Awards for Teacher of the Year in a Secondary School. With 18 years of dedicated teaching experience, Mrs. Bilkhu was previously nominated for Bath Teacher Champion at her former school. She passionately credits her students’ exceptional A Level results to “a team effort,” and shares her deep love for teaching, learning, and social sciences. “I take immense pride in sparking a lifelong passion for learning and nurturing a culture of curiosity. I feel very fortunate to receive this award”.

ACHIEVEMENTS

ACADEMIC

J Binu Jacob - Scholarship to the Medical School of Malta (Medicine), 2024

ART

T Osinibi - A Level artwork accepted on to the Academy of Arts Young Artists Exhibition, 2024

R Parsons - A Level artwork selected for the Royal Academy of Art’s Summer Collection, 2023

D Bailey - Winner of the Prince’s Teaching Institute National Christmas Card Competition, 2022

ATHLETICS

N Tullett - County 400m Hurdles Champion, 2024

N Tullett - Selected to represent Surrey in the English Schools Athletics Championships, 2024

E Gannon - 2nd place: U20 discus international athletics meeting in Vaxjo, representing England, 2024

E Gannon - 2nd place: U20 discus English Schools’ Athletic Association Track and Field Championships, 2023

E Gannon - 1st place: U20 discus competition in the South East Athletics Association track and field competition, 2023

E Gannon - First place at an international athletics meeting in Vaxjo, Sweden in 2023, representing England

M Eastman - Selected for British Athletics Youth Talent Programme 2022-24 for ranking in the top 20 for high jump

BADMINTON

A Shobin - Selected for U16 Surrey County Team, 2022

COMBINED CADET FORCE

L Nunes - Appointed one of His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadets, 2022

L Nunes - Awarded the ACPS (Air Cadets Pilot Scholarship) by the RAF, 2022

COOKERY

M Brock - Winner of the Regional Final of the Future Chef competition, 2022

CREATIVE WRITING

C Newing - Longlisted in top 100 nationally for the New Views National Theatre playwriting programme, 2024

Z Legge - Winner of the Massolit Video Essay Competition in association with Brasenose College, Oxford, 2023

Z Legge - Highly Commended and in the top 100 finalists for the international Foyle Young Poets of the Year award, 2022

G Jones - First place in the 11-13 age group for Prose in the Rotary Young Writer Competition, 2022

E Wilkins - First place in the 11-13 age group for a Poem in the Rotary Young Writer Competition, 2022

I Depoix - First place in the 14-17 age group for Prose in the Rotary Young Writer Competition, 2022

Z Legge - First place in the 14-17 age group for a Poem in the Rotary Young Writer Competition, 2022

CRICKET

A Shaw-Hales - Captained the Guildford Hub, the winning side, in the MCC National Hub T20 Competition at Lord’s, 2024

I Moors - Played for the Guildford Hub, the winning side, in the MCC National Hub T20 Competition at Lord’s, 2024

A Webster - Selected for the U16 Surrey Cricket Invitational Programme 2023 and 2024

R Doyle - Selected for Surrey County Cricket

L Thabrew - Selected for Surrey County Cricket’s U18s Girls County Cricket Programme, 2023

A Shaw-Hales - Captained the Guildford Hub, the winning side, in the MCC National Hub T20 Competition at Lord’s, 2023

I Moors - Played for the Guildford Hub, the winning side, in the MCC National Hub T20 Competition at Lord’s, 2023

H Kohli - Awarded Surrey Cricket’s Bedser Scholarship, 2023

CROSS COUNTRY

K Webb - Ranking of 41 in the UK (Under 20 Women) following Inter-Counties Cross Country Championship, 2023

K Webb - Surrey Schools Cross Country Champion Senior Girls, 2023

DANCING

B Walden - Selected to represent England in the Dance World Cup, 2023

DRAMA

A Kermeen - Offered at place at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School on the Actor’s Workshop Foundation Course, 2024

G Fowler - Offered at place at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School on the Actor’s Workshop Foundation Course, 2024

K Smith - Offered at place at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School on the Actor’s Workshop Foundation Course, 2024

K Smith - Selected for the National Youth Theatre, 2024

S Early - Selected for the National Youth Theatre, 2024

C Pun - Selected for the National Youth Theatre, 2024

E Harrison - Selected for the National Youth Theatre, 2024

A Adebiyi - Selected for the National Youth Theatre, 2024

A Murray - Selected for the National Youth Theatre, 2024

A Kermeen - Selected for the National Youth Theatre, 2023

N Mensah Selected for the National Youth Theatre, 2023

V Arinze-Agwu - Selected for the National Youth Theatre, 2023

E Stone - Offered a place at RADA Drama School, 2023

N Mensah - Offered a place at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, 2023

EQUESTRIAN

M Barnard - NSEA Southern Eventing Champion, 2022

M Barnard - NSEA Championships Finalist, 2022

FOOTBALL

F Fenton - Awarded a Scholarship to Pratt College, Kansas USA, 2024

H Mayhew - Awarded a Scholarship to Northwest College, Wyoming, USA, 2024

S Whitehead - Invited to trial for U18 England Schoolboys Football, 2023

First XI - English Schools Football Association (ESFA) finalists, 2022

H Hewson - Offered a place at University of Alabama USA to continue his football career, 2022

H Hewson - Member of Woking U18 Academy, 2022

M Ferdinando - Reading FC U14, 2022

FREESTYLE KAYAKING

S Edwards - Selected for GB in the Freestyle Kayaking World Championships, 2023

GOLF

J Summerfield - Winner of the National ISGA Schools Cup Individual Gross/ Scratch Competition, 2024

Gordon’s Golf Team - Winners of the ISGA British Schools and Colleges

National Nett Competition, 2024

Gordon’s Golf Team - Winners of the ISGA British Schools and Colleges National Nett Competition, 2023

M Cottrell - Winner of the HMC National Strokeplay Girls’ Individual, 2023

Gordon’s Golf Team - Runners up in the National Schools Golf Finals in the Team Gross and Stableford events, 2022

M Cottrell - Sixth place in the Wales Women’s Open Championship and awarded a World Amateur Golf Ranking, 2022

M Cottrell - National HMC Strokeplay Champion 2022 at The Berkshire GC

D Mumford - joint first place in Schools Golf Stableford at Berkhamsted GC, 2022

Z Mathews - joint first place in Schools Golf Stableford at Berkhamstead GC, 2022

C Jean - Qualified for the World Junior Golf Championship, 2022

C Jean - Finished in seventh place in the European Golf Championship U14, 2022

C Jean - Qualified for the World Junior Golf Championship, 2022

M Cottrell - Selected for Wales to play in the Wales v Ireland Challenge Match, March 2022

E Kircher - Girls U18 Captain at Windlesham, 2022

E Kircher - Surrey U18 and South of England, 2022

J Kircher - Home Nations Final in Portugal, 2022

GYMNASTICS

O Gill - Selected for the Great Britain team for the 2022 European Championships in Luxembourg

HOCKEY

C Falconer - Selected for Scotland Hockey U21s, 2024

C Morgan - Selected for Hampshire County Hockey U17 2022 and 2023

S Mathur - Selected for the Surrey U15 Hockey, 2023

B Pio - Selected for England Hockey Talent Academy 2022-3 and 2023-4

B Pio - Selected for England Hockey DiSE Programme, 2023

C Falconer - Selected for Scotland in the U18 European Championship, 2023

S Mathur - Selected for Surrey U14 Hockey Squad, 2022

N Schollick - Selected for Surrey U17 Hockey, 2022

L Griffiths-Jones - Selected for South Wales Hockey Performance Centre

C Falconer - Selected for the England DiSE (Diploma in Sporting Excellence) Programme

T Kerr - Selected for the England DiSE (Diploma in Sporting Excellence) Programme

M Cottrell - Selected for the Scottish National Emerging Girls’ Hockey Squad, 2022

C Falconer - Captained Scotland in the series against England in July 2022

C Falconer - Selected for the Scottish National Girls’ Hockey Squad, 2022

J Beard - Selected for Hampshire County Hockey Squad

HURDLES

N Tullett - Winner of the Surrey County 400 metre hurdles, 2024

ICE HOCKEY

T Flannery - Silver Medal at the U12 National Ice Hockey Finals as part of the Basingstoke team, 2022

KARTING

K Rao - Ranked 9th in the country for Karting following the British Kart Championships in 2022

KAYAKING

S Edwards - Selected for the GB Freestyle Kayaking Team

MODEL UNITED NATIONS (MUN)

H Gordon - Distinguished Delegate - Reigate Grammar MUN Conference 2023

J Goate - Highly Commended at Reigate Grammar MUN Conference 2023

H Donaldson-Sinclair - Highly Commended at Reigate Grammar MUN Conference 2023

E Bailey - Highly Commended at Reigate Grammar MUN Conference 2023

H Donaldson-Sinclair- Highly Commended at Royal Grammar School MUN Conference, 2022

H Gordon - Highly Distinguished at the Reigate Grammar School MUN Conference, 2022

E Watson, O Knight and A Torrington - Highly commended at Reigate MUN Conference, 2022

H Donaldson-Sinclair - Best Delegate of his committee at the Reigate Grammar School MUN Conference, 2022

MUSIC

A Lee - National Finalist in the Pro Corda Competition, 2024

M Scannell - National Finalist in the Pro Corda Competition, 2024

W Zhou - National Finalist in the Pro Corda Competition, 2024

E Hallett - Offered a place at the ACM Music College and Academy for a Vocals Degree, 2024

E Hallett - Awarded ‘Most Promising Young Singer’, for the second year running by the Woking Music Festival 2024

Semper Fidelis Choir - Awarded the Grace Wright Rose Bowl for the best choral performance of the Woking Music Festival 2024

J Robinson - Awarded ‘Outstanding’ in the Grade 8 Piano Category, Woking Music Festival, 2023

Semper Fidelis Choir - Winner of the Ford North Cup for U19 Schools and College Choirs, Woking Music Festival, 2023

E and L Flynn - Winners of the Instrumental Duo Category, Woking Music Festival, 2023

K Brazendale and J Murphy - First place in the U19 Vocal Duet category, Woking Music Festival, 2023

A Lee - First place in the Senior String category, Woking Music Festival, 2023

A Lee - Winner of the Readings Cup, Woking Music Festival, 2023

E Hallett - First place in the Pop category, Woking Music Festival, 2023

E Hallett - First place in the Folk category, Woking Music Festival, 2023

E Hallett - First place in the Vocal Solo category, Woking Music Festival, 2023

E Hallett - First place in the Composition category, Woking Music Festival, 2023

E Hallett - Winner of the Hilliger Memorial Cup (U19 Solo), Woking Music Festival, 2023

E Hallett - Winner of the Ryde Cup (Musical - U19 years), Woking Music Festival, 2023

K Brazendale - First place in the Christmas Carol category, Woking Music Festival, 2023

MUSICAL THEATRE

L Prince - Offered a place at the Performers Musical Theatre School to study Musical Theatre (BA Hons), 2024

F Kurzberg - Offered a place at the LIPA Musical Theatre School to study Actor/Musician Course (BA Hons), 2024

K Brazendale - First place in the Music Theatre U16 category, Woking Music Festival, 2023

NETBALL

S Chapman - Selected for London Pulse U19, 2024

E Price - Selected for Surrey Storm Development Pathway U19, 2024

J Robson - Selected for Surrey Storm U15 Training Partner, 2024

J Butler - Selected for Berkshire U15 County Academy, 2024

A Griffiths - Selected for Berkshire U15 County Academy, 2024

M Rollason - Selected for Berkshire County Academy, 2024

C Lill - Selected for Scotland Netball U19 Squad, 2023

C Lill - Selected for Surrey Storm U21 Squad, 2023

A Griffiths - Awarded Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the U13 Category in the World Schools Netball Cup, 2023

J Robson - Selected for U13 Berkshire County Netball, 2023

J Butler - Selected for U13 Berkshire County Netball, 2023

A Griffiths - Selected for U13 Berkshire County Netball, 2023

PUBLIC SPEAKING

S Phipps and P Schollick - Regional Finalists in the English Speaking Union (ESU) Shakespeare Competition, 2024

C Falconer, C Franklin and N Schollick - National Semi-Finalists of the English Speaking Union (ESU) Public Speaking Competition.

ROWING

S Bannister - Team GB bronze medal winner in the Rowing World Cup, 2024

J Clarke - Winner of the single scull in the Ball Cup at Dorney’s Olympic Lake, 2023

I Spink and M Hewetson - Winners of the J16 double sculls at the Ethan Regatta, 2022

RUGBY

F Clifford - Selected for Surrey Girls’ U18 Rugby

O Streeter - Represented England in the U18 Six Nations, 2024

E Williams - Represented England in the U18 Six Nations, 2024

T Golder - Represented Wales in the U20 Six Nations, 2024

T Currie - Represented Scotland in the U20 Six Nations, 2024

L Pedreschi - Awarded a Scholarship to Queen’s University of Charlotte, North Carolina, USA, 2024

D Roden - Selected for the Welsh Exiles, 2023

B Webb - Selected for England U18 Training Squad, 2023

Z Robb - Selection for England U18 Tour to South Africa, 2023

E Addai - Selected for the England U17s Development Training Camp, 2023

C Newing - Selection for Surrey U16 Rugby Team, 2023

C Ashworth - Selected for England U18s in Six Nations against France, 2022

T Teriba - Selected for England U18s Training Squad, 2022

SAILING

K Wyatt - Selected for the ILCA6 British Youth Sailing Performance Squad, 2023-4

K Wyatt - Selected to represent Great Britain in the ILCA 4 Youth World Championships in Portugal, 2022

K Wyatt - Qualified for European and World Champions, 2022

SHOOTING

L Mallek - National Schools Champion (Senior Category) 6yrds rifle shooting, 2024

H Chedd, Z Chedd and J West - Gold Medallists in the British Shooting Schools Competition, 2022

J West - Gold Medial in the Intermediate Section of the British Shooting Schools Competition, 2022

Z Chedd - Winner of the Junior 10m Air Rifle Category South East Region, 2022

J West - Winner of the Intermediate 10m Air Rifle Category South East Region, 2022

SWIMMING

A Platt - Won silver in the 50 metre freestyle in the Swim England National Summer Meet, 2023

A Platt - Broke Woking Swimming Club’s ten year club record in the U12 50m Freestyle in 2022 with a time of 28.69.

J Thompson - Gold medal in the 100m breastroke in the Surrey Schools Individual Swimming Championships, 2022

B Platt - Silver Medal for the 50m Freestyle at the National Arena League, 2022

A Platt - Silver Medal in the 50m Freestyle at the National Arena League, 2022

TAE KWON-DO

J Mostert - Silver medal winner in the Boys’ Light Weight Division in the TAGB Welsh International Open Tae Kwon-Do Championships, 2022

TENNIS

H Wright - Byfleet Lawn Tennis Club Junior Champion, 2024

WAKEBOARDING

M O’Toole - Silver in Boat European Championships, 2024

M O’Toole - Sixth in Cable World Championships, 2024

M O’Toole - selected for both the IWWF Boat European and Cable World Championships, 2024

M O’Toole - Gold winner in the UK Boat and Cable National Competitions, 2024

M O’Toole - Winner of the Nautique Wake Open, 2024

M O’Toole - Winner of both the U14 Boat and Cable Wakeboarding National Finals, 2023

M O’Toole - selected for both the GB Boat and Cable Wakeboarding GB teams for 2023 for the World and European Championships, 2023

WRITING

O Knight - Senior winner of the local heats of the Rotary Young Writer Competition, 2023

J Sherpa - Intermediate winner of the local heats of the Rotary Young Writer Competition, 2023

Members of the Pipes and Drums join Aldershot Town FC fans in the EBB Stadium for the match against Wealdstone, after performing on the pitch as part of the Remembrance Day commemorations.

GORDON’S SCHOOL

BAGSHOT ROAD, WEST END, SURREY GU24 9PT

Tel: 01276 858084 WWW.GORDONS.SCHOOL