Sotoniensis 2026
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Sotoniensis 2026
Contents 06
Introduction from the Chair of Governors
08 Prep School 10
From the Head
20
Leaving Staff
11
Head Boy & Girl Reflections
22
Living Our Values: A Year of Achievement,
12
Summary of Nursery
14
Summary of Pre-Prep
16
Summary of Lower Prep
18
Summary of Upper Prep
Growth and Community at KES Prep
26 Senior School 28
From the Head
50
Partnerships
30
From the Head of School
52
Trips and Visits
32
The Allen Grant Trophy 2026
56
Sport
34
Creative Arts
68
Fundraising and Alumni
43
Co-curricular Clubs and Societies
72
Leaving Staff
48
Charities
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From the Chair of Governors Amidst the organisational developments of the past year, our greatest source of pride remains the achievements of our pupils. Across our schools, pupils have achieved exceptional success in the classroom and beyond, supported by dedicated staff and a culture that values kindness and personal growth in equal measure. It is this combination of exceptional outcomes, strong values, and a genuine commitment to helping every child reach their potential that continues to set our schools apart and make them among Hampshire’s leading independent schools. The past year has been one of the most significant in the history of King Edward’s, as we welcomed Prince’s Mead School into our family, and launched the “KES Group” to recognise that we are now a family of 3 schools sharing common values and ethos, whilst preserving the individual qualities of each of our schools. The headwinds which are buffeting our sector have continued to hit the headlines, with significant numbers of school closures as well as consolidation. This is likely to continue. Fortunately, the KES Group is financially sound, and we are confident that our proactive approach to mitigating the headwinds, as well as our relentless focus on providing outstanding pedagogy, will ensure that our Group remains a leading provider of independent education in Hampshire. This year, we have substantially completed a significant restructure of our leadership team, which enables us to respond with agility to the challenges and opportunities which present in a £30m business with a broad range of stakeholders, and to maintain and enhance our academic prowess, whilst delivering on our imperative to continue to generate surpluses for re-investment in our infrastructure and our educational offering.
The final element of this restructure will be the appointment of an Executive Principal of the KES Group with effect from September 1, 2027. I am delighted that Neal Parker has agreed to step into this role, which means we are now actively recruiting for a new Head of Senior School, who will also be appointed from September 1, 2027. This is a bold move, but we feel it is necessary, as the role of Head of Senior School, responsible for the educational advancement of 1,000 pupils, together with the leadership of the staff and the engagement with parents is, without doubt, a full-time job. Neal, in his role as Executive Principal, whilst having de-facto oversight of all 3 schools, will also focus on some of the necessary commercial aspects of running the KES Group, being particularly mindful of parent affordability, devising strategies to drive commercial income, managing relationships with our significant donors to further develop our Bursary offering, and evaluating the need for and delivery of capital projects. As I mentioned last year, we are actively considering how we ensure leading-edge provision of teaching in the science faculty in the Senior School, and we have engaged consultants to help us to determine the optimal way forward in terms of any necessary improvements to our infrastructure. Despite headwinds, we continue to push forward with a comprehensive programme of improvements to our estate. This year we have invested in a significant revamp of our Nursery facilities at Prince’s Mead, and at the Senior School we have created a new ‘Twigg’ theatre, which will transform our delivery of education
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in the performing arts, and provide an intimate atmosphere for performances with limited audiences. The Old Edwardians’ Association (OEA) has played a pivotal role in connecting our alumni with each other and with the School for over 100 years. However, in recent years its activities have declined, and the prevalence of social media in our lives means that our alumni have other means to retain existing connections. In addition, the School’s own Alumni Hub provides a very effective resource for alumni to reconnect with fellow alumni, and our Alumni Team have taken charge of the organisation of all alumni events. The decision has been taken to wind up the
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OEA, and we are delighted that the OEA Committee have recommended that the Association’s closing funds be transferred to the School’s Bursary Fund. We express our sincere thanks to the many Old Edwardians who have given their time to ensure the smooth running of the Association over its long life. As a governing body, we are having to adapt to a changing world. Our response, to opportunities and to challenges, has to be fast paced yet thoroughly assessed and debated. I would like to formally thank my fellow governors for their time, which is given voluntarily and enthusiastically, often at short notice, and I can always count on their steadfast commitment to the core objectives of the KES Group. To the wider KES community, thank you for your engagement, your support, and your understanding as we continue to drive the KES Group forward, championing our academic excellence, yet responding proactively and positively to the commercial imperative. I look forward to 2026/7 with confidence, surrounded by an exceptional Board of Governors, a Leadership Team who are energised and have embraced the opportunity to work together in a group setting, and our teachers and professional services staff who ensure without fail that every day presents an opportunity to provide a transformational experience for our pupils. With very best wishes to you all.
Geraint Davies Chair of Governors
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Prep School
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From the Head As I reflect on another extraordinary year at KES Prep, I do so with an overwhelming sense of pride and gratitude. This has been a year of growth, innovation and achievement; one in which our children have continued to demonstrate the curiosity, kindness and determination that sit at the heart of our community. It has also been a year in which we have laid important foundations for the future, preparing not only our pupils for the next stage of their education, but preparing our school to enter an exciting new chapter. Across the School, we have continued to evolve our curriculum through the development of our i3 learning philosophy and our new inquiry-led, integrated approach to learning. By encouraging children to ask questions, make connections across subjects and engage with real-world challenges, we are nurturing independent thinkers who are inquisitive, intrinsically motivated and ready for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. The enthusiasm with which pupils have embraced these opportunities has been a joy to witness. Alongside academic development, we have worked hard to embed our values of Do the Right Thing, Lift Others and Keep Growing into every aspect of school life. Through our Boundless Futures Passports, pupil leadership opportunities, House Family activities and daily interactions, these values are becoming more than words on a wall; they are shaping character, strengthening relationships and helping our children understand the positive impact they can have on the world around them.
This year has also delivered many moments of celebration beyond the classroom. Our pupils have excelled in sport, represented the School with pride and demonstrated remarkable teamwork and resilience. The performing arts have flourished too, with outstanding musical and dramatic performances culminating in a truly memorable production of Matilda the Musical Jr., where our Year 6 pupils lit up the stage with confidence, talent and enthusiasm. Meanwhile, developments across the School have continued to strengthen our provision for families. From the successful growth of our Nursery to initiatives that widen access and opportunity such as our Stepping Stones Awards; we remain focused on ensuring that an exceptional KES Prep education is available to as many children as possible. Perhaps most significantly, this year has seen us launch our centenary celebrations. As we prepare to mark 100 years of our Prep School, we do so with immense pride in the legacy of Stroud and all those who have shaped our journey. The values, traditions and sense of community built over the past century continue to guide us today. Yet our centenary is not simply a moment to look back; it is an opportunity to look forward with ambition and confidence. We celebrate all that has come before, while embracing the boundless future that lies ahead. Together, we are building on a remarkable legacy as we begin the next century of our story.
Rebecca Smith Head of KES Prep
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Head Boy & Head Girl Reflections It has been a privilege to be the Head Boy and Head Girl of KES Prep this year. We remember being so surprised when our names were announced at the end of Year 5. This sense of surprise was quickly replaced by excitement - and a slight nervousness - at the responsibility we knew would come with our roles. It feels like yesterday that we started our adventure at this wonderful school, and today we find ourselves ready to take the next steps in our journey. Starting a new school always feels a little daunting, and it was no different starting here, but the warmth of the teachers and the support of our friends soon helped us to feel like we belonged. That sense of belonging has never left us - and we don’t believe it ever will. For us, the thing that makes this school so special is that everyone who comes here becomes part of a large family. Everyone supports each other and pulls in the same direction to create a unique sense of togetherness. As we look back on our time here, we can appreciate how many memorable moments we have been lucky enough to experience: the Year 6 production of Matilda, the wonderful residential trips, singing in the O2 Arena as part of a choir of 9000, whole school trips to Paulton’s Park, Sports Days and many, many more. However in recent weeks, we have come to realise that it is the little, everyday things we will miss the most when we leave KES Prep: the squeals of excitement of the Pre-Prep children, the beautiful grounds, the chirp of the house martins nesting under the eaves, the support of friends and teachers, being accepted for who we are and, most of all, the comfortable familiarity of the place and all the happy memories it holds. We know that an atmosphere as magical as this doesn’t actually happen by magic, and there are so many people we want to thank for making KES Prep the special place it is. Firstly, we would like to thank our teachers for supporting us even when we find things hard. Even though we are here to learn, our teachers make it fun, and we love the fact that we can laugh with them. We would also like to thank our wonderful learning support assistants for their endless patience and kindness. We must acknowledge Matron and thank her for both the Calpol and good humour - both of which help us to feel better when we most need it. Our catering staff have provided us with delicious meals, our facilities staff have ensured that our school and grounds
always look at their beautiful best, and the wonderful office staff not only greet us with a warm smile but ensure that everything runs smoothly. Thank you to them all. We would like to leave you with a few final thoughts and things we have learnt during our time here. Firstly, stay hopeful, as the difficult times you will inevitably face will never last. Something good can come from difficult circumstances and the sunshine always follows the rain. There will always be ups and downs in life, and your journey will not always be smooth, but to quote Rudyard Kipling, ‘If you can meet with triumph and disaster and treat those two imposters just the same.’ Our school values have taught us to keep growing, lift others, and do the right thing. We hope that everyone at KES Prep will continue to live by those values, and as we leave, we will endeavour to do the same. We will try to be brave and remember that mistakes are just opportunities to learn. We will try to show kindness towards others and support them through the ups and downs of their own journeys, and we will try to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. So, now the time has come for us to pass the baton to the new Head Boy and Head Girl. Thank you, KES Prep, for everything.
Logan & Matilda Head Boy & Head Girl
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Summary of Nursery A Year of Growth and Discovery This year has been one of growth, discovery and memorable experiences in nursery, as Owl Class and Deer Class have continued to flourish. We have been delighted to welcome an increasing number of families into the KES community, supporting children at the very beginning of their educational journey. It has been a pleasure to see children settle into nursery life, develop friendships and embrace new experiences with enthusiasm. Through our key person approach, children have formed strong relationships with the nursery team, providing the secure foundation from which they can explore, learn and thrive.
Shaping Learning Through Curiosity From the outset, the children have shown a natural desire to investigate the world around them. Their interests have shaped much of our learning, with nursery practitioners carefully building upon children’s ideas while remaining rooted in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. Whether
engaged in imaginative play, storytelling or outdoor adventures, the children have become increasingly independent and resourceful. Sharing these moments with families through Tapestry learning journal has provided a valuable window into the children’s experiences and achievements throughout the year.
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excitement filled the nursery as chicks hatched from eggs, with the children eagerly following each stage of the process. These first-hand experiences sparked curiosity and wonder while deepening children’s understanding of the natural world. They also helped children develop a growing awareness of the world around them and encouraged meaningful conversations about nature, traditions and community.
Learning Through Nature, Creativity and Community A particular strength of nursery life continues to be the extensive range of specialist lessons on offer. In Games lessons, children have developed coordination, balance and teamwork through carefully planned activities. Forest School has encouraged exploration, problem-solving and resilience, helping children connect with nature in all seasons. We have especially enjoyed welcoming Sixth Form pupils from KES Senior School to Deer Class sessions, where their enthusiasm and support enriched the children’s experiences. In Performing Arts and Sing and Sign sessions, children have grown in self-confidence and developed their ability to express themselves, while Yoga has encouraged mindfulness, movement and wellbeing. Farm School has provided some of the year’s most memorable moments. The children have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Captain the cockerel, who has quickly become a well-known and muchloved member of our community. An unforgettable highlight was witnessing the birth of Gilly the goat, prompting fascination and discussion as children learned about new life and the life cycle. In the spring,
Nurturing Curiosity and Belonging We have also taken great pride in participating in whole school events such as World Book Day and welcoming reading buddies into Nursery. These shared experiences ensure that even our youngest pupils feel very much a part of the wider KES community, fostering a sense of connection from the very start of their school journey. The Toddler and Preschool Sing-Alongs have been another highlight of the year. These special occasions provided children with the opportunity to perform for their families and celebrate their achievements. It was wonderful to see their growing confidence as they sang, moved and performed together. Play remains at the heart of everything we do. Through play, the children investigate ideas, solve problems, develop language and make sense of the world around them. The progress seen across the children in nursery this year reflects the value of a nurturing environment where children feel safe, supported and inspired to learn. As we reflect on the year, there is much to celebrate. The children have embraced every opportunity with curiosity and enthusiasm, building strong foundations for the next stage of their learning journey. We look forward to seeing where that journey takes them, knowing their first experiences within the KES community have been filled with care, opportunity and a genuine sense of wonder.
Amey Richmond Nursery Manager
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Summary of Pre-Prep A New Chapter for Pre-Prep It has been a year of exciting change in Pre-Prep. One of the most notable developments has been welcoming our Reception children into a shared space with Year 1, and this has proved to be a hugely positive move. Being situated in the heart of the School from the very start of their school journey has given our Reception children a strong sense of belonging and confidence, helping them to feel fully immersed in school life from day one.
Creativity has thrived in the mud kitchen, where children have enthusiastically prepared all manner of
Transforming Our Outdoor Environment
culinary ‘masterpieces’, while the sandpit has inspired
Both Reception and Year 1 have flourished, particularly with the addition of the playscape, which has transformed our outdoor provision. The rich and varied opportunities for play, exploration and learning have been limitless. We have enjoyed a wide range of experiences, from imaginative performances in our mini amphitheatre, to collaborative problem-solving with the water pump and channels, where children have experimented, adjusted and refined their ideas together.
area has provided opportunities for physical
digging, building and storytelling as children create castles, channels and hidden worlds. The adventure development, with children climbing, balancing and challenging themselves before racing down the slide with delight.
“The important thing is not to stop questioning.” — Albert Einstein
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Not All Classrooms Have Four Walls As always, the children’s learning extends far beyond the classroom, taking place across our beautiful school site and in the wider world beyond. This year, they have benefited from a rich programme of trips and visits designed to inspire, support and deepen their learning. Our Reception children enjoyed a memorable visit to Hillier Gardens, where they explored the wonders of autumn, learned about local wildlife and habitats, and experienced seasonal change firsthand. A trip to Winchester Science Centre proved equally inspiring, sparking a sustained fascination with space. The visit generated a wealth of thoughtful questions, which in turn became the driving force behind their subsequent inquiry work. In Year 1, learning has been further enriched through a variety of trips that have brought classroom topics to life. A visit to Marwell Zoo provided an exciting opportunity for the children to explore the classification of animals in a real-world context. Observing a wide range of species up close enabled them to identify similarities and differences, deepening their understanding of animal groups and habitats.
Intrepidus Week “Cherish the natural world, because you’re a part of it and you depend on it.” — David Attenborough Our Intrepidus Week this year centred on celebrating the 100th birthday of Sir David Attenborough, while deepening our understanding of the importance of caring for our planet. Through a range of engaging activities, the children explored the wonders of the natural world and reflected on how even small actions can help protect it for future generations. The Year 1 children visited Wisley Gardens, where they developed their knowledge of plants, while our Reception children took part in a beach clean, gaining first-hand experience of how we can care for our environment.
The children also travelled to Brooklands Museum, where they stepped back in time to discover the history of transport. Through exploring historic aircraft and vehicles, they developed a greater appreciation of how travel has evolved over time and the impact these changes have had on society. This immersive experience helped to make abstract concepts more tangible and meaningful. These real-world experiences have enriched the curriculum, ignited curiosity and provided meaningful contexts for learning, ensuring that the children remain engaged, motivated and eager to discover more.
Firm Foundations to Flourish Boundless Future Passports Through the introduction of our Boundless Future Passports, our pupils actively live out our values of doing the right thing, lifting others and continuing to grow, embedding these principles in both their learning and their everyday interactions. We strive to ensure our children gain the knowledge they need while understanding how to take care of themselves, one another, and the world around them, developing a deep sense of responsibility and respect. By nurturing a lifelong thirst for learning and discovery, they leave us not only well-prepared for the next stage of their education but motivated to make a positive difference in the world.
Jo Humphreys Head of Pre-Prep
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Summary of Lower Prep A Place to Belong This year in Lower Prep, we have spent a great deal of time thinking about something fundamental: what does it really mean for a child to feel that they belong?
are powerful. They create the environment in which children feel confident enough to take risks, to try, to get things wrong, and ultimately to grow.
For us, it starts with the smallest things — the daily routines, the warm greetings at the door, the familiar rhythms of the day that help children feel safe and secure. These structures may seem simple, but they
Welcoming our Year 2 children into the Lower Prep building for the first time has been one of the real joys of the year. Watching them step into this new space — initially with a mixture of excitement and uncertainty — and then quickly find their place has been incredibly special. What has struck us most is how naturally those connections have formed, not just between the children themselves, but also with staff across the department. There is a genuine sense that we are all part of the same community, learning and working alongside one another. Those early experiences matter. The Year 2 Nativity was a perfect example — standing on stage, finding the courage to perform, supported by familiar faces and kind encouragement. The Lower Prep Christmas Party, too, was filled with laughter and a sense of ease that only comes when children feel truly comfortable in their environment.
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Growing Together Throughout the year, we have worked deliberately to create opportunities for children to connect across year groups. The Reading Buddies programme continues to be quietly powerful. There is something very special about watching an older child sit alongside a younger one, offering reassurance and encouragement. In those moments, confidence grows — on both sides. Similarly, our House Family events have strengthened that sense of belonging, giving children a wider identity within the school and a feeling that they are part of something bigger than themselves. We have also seen children begin to find their voice. The Public Speaking Competition was a particular highlight this year. Standing in front of an audience takes real courage, and watching children move from nervous beginnings to speaking with clarity and pride is always a reminder of how far they can go when they feel supported. Times Table Rockstars may seem very different, but it carries the same message — that perseverance is celebrated, and progress, however small, matters.
Dance Display captured this beautifully — children supporting one another, performing with courage, and celebrating their achievements together. We have also been particularly proud of the way children have expressed themselves creatively. The STEAM Day Fashion Show at Prince’s Mead was a wonderful example of individuality and confidence, and it was a pleasure to welcome parents into school for events such as Parent Breakfasts and Open Classrooms. These moments matter — they strengthen the partnership between home and school and allow us to celebrate the children together.
Where Belonging Leads, Everything Else Follows
Learning Beyond the Classroom Of course, some of the most important learning happens beyond the classroom. Whether it has been through Learning Outside the Classroom sessions, Forest School, or those wonderful beach trips with Year 2, we have seen children develop not just knowledge, but independence and resilience. These shared experiences — building, exploring, problemsolving together — are often where the strongest friendships are formed. There have been so many moments of collective pride this year. World Book Day brought its usual energy and creativity, while Year 4’s Shakespeare Rocks production was a true celebration of teamwork and confidence. In sport, whether through matches or festivals, the children have shown commitment and determination, learning just as much from the setbacks as they do from success. The Gym and
Trips have, as always, played a vital role in bringing learning to life. From Arundel Castle and Exbury Gardens in Year 2 to Lyme Regis and Stonehenge in Year 3, the sense of curiosity has been tangible. Year 4’s experiences at Butser Farm and Hampton Court, and our Intrepidus Week adventures — including the residential trip to Hooke Court for Year 4 — have given the children opportunities to step outside their comfort zones and grow in confidence and independence. When we reflect on the year, it is these moments — large and small — that stand out. A quiet conversation between Reading Buddies. A child taking a deep breath before speaking in their class Sharing Assembly. A group working together outdoors, solving a problem. A shared laugh at the Christmas Party. These are the moments where belonging is built. And when children feel that they truly belong, everything else follows — confidence, curiosity, resilience, and a genuine love of learning.
Lucy Tippett Head of Lower Prep
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Summary of Upper Prep Leading with Kindness, Integrity and Purpose It has been an exciting year in Upper Prep as Year 6 embraced their roles as Prefects, leading with enthusiasm, kindness and creativity across the School. They approached their responsibilities with a strong sense of integrity and purpose. In addition to their daily duties, Prefects led House meetings, toured families on open days (joined by Year 5 – our Prefects in training) and presented to the whole
school, providing a wealth of opportunities to learn, practise and develop their leadership skills. Our Pupil Voice groups, led by Year 6 Prefects, worked hard to make a meaningful difference within the School. They ensured that everyone’s views were heard and valued, helping to foster an inclusive and supportive community. Year 6 shared these accomplishments in each term’s final assembly, reflecting thoughtfully on what had been achieved and what still lay ahead, recognising that positive change is a shared responsibility, and one for everyone in the KES Prep family. Bringing Upper Prep together with the rest of the school community remains a priority and provides opportunities for our older children to lead by example with kindness and encouragement. Our Language Leaders in Year 6 learnt how to teach Spanish to our Year 2 pupils, while Year 5 and Year 6 children enjoyed reading with their younger buddies. House Family meetings - whether making Christmas decorations, going on scavenger hunts or simply spending time together - were a highlight for all.
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Engaging Minds, Enriching Talents Highlights for our oldest children included Year 5’s trip to Paultons Park to investigate forces enthusiastically trying out the rides to deepen their understanding! Their residential to PGL Little Canada encouraged them to step beyond their comfort zones, showing resilience as they took on new social, physical and independence-based challenges. Embracing learning through experiences, they had an immersive day in the life of a Victorian child, learning about school life, chores and how not to get on the wrong side of their teachers!
Confidence, Collaboration, and Critical Thinking The Upper Prep curriculum is challenging, varied and inspiring. Pupils continue to develop as thoughtful, independent learners, preparing for an ever-changing world. They make meaningful connections between their in-class learning and life outside school. Preparing our children for an ever-changing world, by allowing them to grow creatively and question everything, is central to their learning: it gives them the skills for tomorrow. Whether through science experiments, pond dipping, planting saplings or delivering speeches, they build confidence in an environment where taking risks and learning from mistakes is encouraged.
Year 6 enjoyed their memorable trip to Normandy, visiting the landing beaches they had studied in their Discovery topic and confidently ordering food in French. This experience encouraged independence and a cultural awareness which comes from a trip abroad. Bikeability, WW2 Day, their final Public Speaking performance and their outstanding production of Matilda all provided valuable opportunities to build confidence and develop new skills. Our concerts continue to be a highlight, with the Upper Prep Choir’s performance at Romsey Abbey being a particularly special moment for the whole community. Year 5’s participation in the Young Voices concert at the O2 Arena showcased collaboration, creativity and the joy of shared experience, as well as a great deal of fun and excitement.
This year, the Civic Award programme enabled Year 6 pupils to develop practical life skills, raise money for charity and take ownership of their own projects. Their overnight camp, designed and carried out independently, demonstrated teamwork, resilience and responsibility. Sport has been a significant highlight, with pupils representing KES Prep at a high level, showing commitment, teamwork and a genuine enjoyment of participation. Outdoor Learning also continues to play a key role, encouraging pupils to care for their environment and take pride in their surroundings, while working collaboratively for something bigger than themselves. As our oldest children move on to their next challenges, whether to secondary school or into new leadership roles within KES Prep, they do so with confidence, strong character and a determination to continue developing into the very best versions of themselves.
Kirstin Andrews Head of Upper Prep
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Leaving Staff Ben Morgan After just shy of nine years at Stroud / KES Prep, the time has finally come for me to say goodbye to the biscuits in the staffroom.
long time, and this school has been a huge part of my life. I’ve been lucky to work with fantastic people and to be part of a department that genuinely feels like a family. Thank you for your support, friendship, and the many memories. I wish you all the very best for the future.
Over the years, I‘ve discovered that working in a school means you’re never just one thing. At various points, I’ve been a PE teacher, form tutor, event organiser, trip leader, Head of House, co-curricular lead, equipment finder, weather forecaster, motivational speaker, and occasionally even a lost-property detective. The variety is one of the things that has made the job so rewarding and ensured that no two days have ever been quite the same. It’s been an absolute privilege to be part of the PE department, where I’ve had the pleasure of working with an incredible team who have supported each other through everything — from freezing winter mornings on the field to sports days that somehow always seemed to coincide with either a heatwave or torrential rain. Being part of PE means experiencing things that most people in schools never quite understand. We celebrate finding a lost football as if we’ve won a trophy, we can carry half a sports hall’s worth of equipment in one trip, and we spend our lives saying the same things over and over again: “Tie your laces,” “Stop swinging on the goalposts,” and, of course, “No, you can’t just sit out of cross country because you’re a bit tired.” To my PE colleagues, thank you for the laughs, the friendship, and the teamwork over the years. You’ve made even the busiest days enjoyable, and it’s been a pleasure sharing so many successes, residentials, sports tours, fixtures, and sports days with you. I’ll miss the laughs almost as much as I’ll miss the holidays. To all the pupils, thank you for keeping every day interesting. Whether through PE lessons, sports fixtures, clubs, activities, or school events, it has been a privilege to watch so many of you grow in confidence, resilience, and character. Your enthusiasm, competitiveness, determination, and endless ability to forget your PE kit have certainly ensured that no two days have ever been the same. What I’ll take away most, though, are the relationships I’ve built and the memories I’ve made. Nine years is a
Dr. Ana De Silva e Lopes After almost 20 years at this wonderful school, the time has come for me to move on to a new chapter in my career. This has not been an easy decision, as this school has been more than just a workplace — it has truly been a second home. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working alongside dedicated colleagues, inspiring countless young people, and building strong relationships with families. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together and deeply grateful for the support, friendship, and trust you have shown me throughout my time here. Teaching has always been about more than lessons and classrooms — it’s about connection, growth, and shared experiences. I will carry with me many wonderful memories: the laughter, the challenges we overcame, and the achievements we celebrated. While I am not retiring, I am looking forward to embracing new opportunities and challenges. That said, I will always look back on my time here with great fondness and appreciation. Thank you for being such an important part of my journey. I wish the school continued success and all of you the very best for the future.
Kate Andrews After 20 wonderful years at Stroud and KES Prep, I am both sad and excited to be moving on to the Senior School to continue my journey within the KES Group. I joined the School in 2006 as a newly qualified teacher and have been fortunate to take on many different roles
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over the years. Starting in Nursery, I helped establish our Forest School provision before going on to teach in Reception and Pre Prep. I have also had the pleasure of working as a Music specialist and, more recently, in Art, Craft and Design. It has been a privilege to work alongside so many talented colleagues, inspiring children and supportive families. Watching generations of pupils grow in confidence and character has been one of the greatest joys of my career. On a personal level, my own children have benefited from an education here, and our family has grown and developed as part of this very special community. While it is difficult to say goodbye, I leave with immense fondness rather than sadness, knowing that I will continue to work closely with colleagues and have the pleasure of seeing many children continue their journeys and flourish at the Senior School. Thank you to everyone who has been part of the last 20 years. Stroud/KES Prep will always hold a special place in my heart.
Chloe Williams After two and a half wonderful years at KES Prep, it is time for me to begin an exciting new chapter as I start teacher training to pursue my dream of becoming a teacher. My journey at KES Prep began in Preschool, where I had the privilege of working alongside an incredible team and supporting wonderful children and families. In September 2024, I was delighted to take on the role of Toddler Room Leader as our provision expanded to welcome twoyear-olds. Being trusted to help establish and develop the Toddler Room from the very beginning has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career, and I am incredibly proud of everything we have achieved together. KES Prep has given me so many opportunities, unforgettable memories and friendships that I will cherish forever. The support, encouragement and laughter shared with colleagues have made these past two and a half years truly special, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of such a caring community. While I am excited for the challenges ahead, I will
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miss the children, families and colleagues who have made my time here so memorable. Thank you to everyone who has supported me, encouraged me and been part of my journey so far. KES Prep will always hold a special place in my heart.
Karen McCarthy I feel incredibly grateful for the past 11 years working in such a kind, caring, family feel school community. The support and friendship I have experienced throughout my time here — especially during the challenges of COVID — has meant a great deal. I am particularly proud of what we achieved through remote teaching, ensuring success for all our pupils despite the difficult circumstances. Also working with incredibly talented teachers and forming lasting friendships. In addition, I valued the opportunity to work with children from Ukraine, developing new IT skills which enabled the children to access in their own language what was shown on the board in English throughout every lesson. Some of my fondest memories will always be our residential trips to France — I absolutely loved them! Thank you everyone for the encouragement, teamwork and warmth that has made this journey so special – I will miss you all.
Sophie Walder The last 7 years at KES Prep have flown by and I have had the privilege of working with the most amazing colleagues, children and families. From working in Nursey to Year 6, I have always felt welcome and valued. It really has felt like home! As I move onto a new exciting chapter, I will take away lots of brilliant memories and I am sure I will see you all around. Thank you for the warmth, kindness and fun. Wishing the School and all the wonderful children and staff the best - remember to enjoy each day and find the happiness and joy.
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Living Our Values:
A Year of Achievement, Growth and Community at KES Prep
Boundless Futures At KES Prep our values shape everything we do and unite us with King Edward VI School in a shared sense of purpose, strengthening the breadth and continuity of the independent education we offer.
Boundless Futures sits at the heart of our school. It is the belief that success takes many forms and that every child should have the opportunity to discover their passions, build lifelong skills and make their own mark on the world. Our values — Do the right thing, Lift others, Keep growing — are not simply words on a page; they are principles lived daily by our pupils, guiding their actions, shaping their experiences and underpinning every success we celebrate.
Boundless Futures Passports This year, the introduction of our Boundless Futures Passports has provided pupils with a meaningful way to engage with these values in their everyday lives. By collecting stamps linked to activities and achievements associated with each value, pupils are encouraged to recognise the many ways they are developing as learners, friends and members of the wider community. The passports have helped make our values both visible and tangible, reinforcing the idea that personal growth comes not only through achievement, but also through kindness, curiosity, perseverance and good judgement.
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Our Learning Philosophy
Do the Right Thing
Our i3 learning philosophy captures the spirit of Boundless Futures and underpins everything we do. It begins with Inquisitive Learning, fostering curiosity and encouraging questions. This leads to Intrinsic Motivation, where pupils engage deeply because they want to learn. Finally, it develops Independent Minds, enabling pupils to become confident, capable thinkers who take ownership of their learning.
At the heart of Do the right thing is the confidence to think independently, speak up respectfully and act with integrity.
Turning Values into Action Over the past year, our values and philosophy have come to life through academic, creative, sporting and personal achievements. They can be seen not only in major successes, but also in the decisions our pupils make and the ways they support one another every day.
Our thriving Pupil Voice Groups provide a powerful example of this value in action. Through committees focused on teaching and learning, wellbeing, sustainability, co-curricular and charities, pupils work together to share ideas and shape positive change across the School. By engaging directly with the Head, Mrs Smith, they learn that their opinion matters and that thoughtful contributions can make a genuine difference. We have also seen pupils increasingly finding their voice through opportunities such as the Public Speaking Competition. Standing before an audience requires courage and self-belief, and it was inspiring to watch children grow into thoughtful and articulate speakers. These experiences help pupils develop the confidence to express their views respectfully and contribute positively both within school and beyond.
Lift Others The value of Lift others is reflected in the kindness, encouragement and community spirit that underpins so much of school life. Our Year 6 Civic Award programme exemplifies this commitment. Through charitable initiatives, community-focused activities and independent projects, pupils learn that their actions can have a positive impact on others. Whether organising fundraising events, supporting worthwhile causes or working towards shared goals, they develop empathy, responsibility and a sense of service. Across the School, opportunities for pupils to connect and support one another continue to flourish. The
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Reading Buddies programme provides a wonderful example, with older pupils encouraging younger learners and building confidence on both sides. Our House Family events have similarly strengthened relationships across year groups, helping pupils feel part of something bigger than themselves. A memorable example of collaboration on a larger scale was the Young Voices concert at the O2 Arena, where Year 5 pupils joined thousands of other children in the world’s largest children’s choir. Through rehearsing, performing and supporting one another, they experienced the power of collective effort and shared achievement. This same spirit was evident in academic life, from collaborative problem-solving in the Godolphin Maths Masters Challenge and UK Maths Trust Primary Maths Challenge to thoughtful discussion through The Big Write, Big Talk and Prepared Talks. These experiences help create a culture in which every pupil feels heard, valued and supported.
STEAM Week captured this perfectly. Pupils designed and created upcycled garments, transforming everyday materials into imaginative fashion pieces inspired by music and culture. Intrepidus Week provided pupils across the School
Keep Growing Keep growing is about embracing new opportunities, remaining open to challenge and developing resilience to learn from both successes and setbacks.
with a wonderful opportunity to broaden their horizons and embrace new experiences. While our Reception children celebrated the 100th birthday of Sir David Attenborough in style, pupils in the Upper School enjoyed a wide range of day trips and
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residential adventures. From Fort Nelson and the Roman Baths to the Isle of Wight and Normandy, the week was filled with discovery, challenge, and excitement. It was a fantastic week that helped everyone grow in confidence, build lasting friendships, and create wonderful memories. Sport has provided countless opportunities for growth throughout the year. With high levels of participation in weekly fixtures and cross country events, pupils have consistently demonstrated determination, perseverance and a willingness to challenge themselves. We were proud to host the IAPS Regional Rugby, Girls’ Regional Netball, and Boys’ Regional Cricket tournaments. Our Boys’ and Girls’ Hockey teams were In2Hockey Regional Cup Winners, the Boys’ Rugby team won the Bryanston 7s, our Girls’ Cricket team were IAPS Regional Cup Winners, and five athletes qualified for the National Finals. These achievements are a testament not only to talent but also to hard work, commitment and resilience. Whether celebrating success or learning from setbacks, pupils have shown that growth is
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not defined solely by results. Their willingness to continue striving for improvement reflects the true spirit of Keep Growing. The performing arts have offered another powerful avenue for growth. From the Upper Prep Choir’s performance at Romsey Abbey and Year 4’s Shakespeare Rocks! production to the outstanding Year 6 production of Matilda, pupils have embraced opportunities to develop confidence, creativity and self-expression. Our youngest children demonstrated the same enthusiasm during their Toddlers and PreSchool summer singalongs, proudly sharing their learning and building confidence from an early age. Together, these experiences reflect a community in which pupils are encouraged to think independently, support one another and embrace opportunities to learn and grow. Through their actions each day, they continue to bring our values to life.
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Senior School
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From the Head One of the privileges of working in a school is that no two years are ever quite the same. Certainly, there are familiar rhythms. Terms begin and end. Pupils move through year groups and examinations arrive with remarkable consistency. Concerts are performed, fixtures played, productions staged and trips undertaken. Yet each year develops its own distinctive character, shaped by the people within it and the opportunities they choose to embrace. As I reflect on the last year at KES, it is not any single achievement which stands out most strongly. Rather, it is the extraordinary extent to which pupils have immersed themselves in the life of the School and the wider community around them. Last year, I wrote about our values and our i3 learning philosophy. Any school can publish values or display them on walls. The more important test is whether they become visible in the daily habits of the community. Looking back over this year, I believe they have. Across the School, I have seen young people demonstrating independence in their thinking, curiosity in their learning and a genuine willingness to challenge themselves. I have seen pupils stepping forward to lead, support others and contribute positively to the communities of which they are part. Most encouragingly of all, I have seen these qualities demonstrated not by a small number of exceptional individuals, but across the pupil body as a whole. Academic achievement remains, of course, central to our purpose as a school. Once again, our pupils have much of which to be proud. Strong examination outcomes have reflected not only considerable ability, but also resilience, determination and sustained effort over time. Yet examinations tell only part of the story. What continues to impress me is the spirit of scholarship which exists beyond the classroom. Throughout the year, pupils have participated in subject competitions, attended lectures and workshops, engaged in debate and discussion, pursued independent research and explored areas of interest simply because they wished to learn more. In an age when information has never been more readily available, the capacity to ask thoughtful questions and remain genuinely curious about the world around us has never been more important. Encouragingly, those qualities continue to thrive at King Edward’s.
The creative life of the School has also flourished. Our productions of ‘Legally Blonde’ and ‘Around the World in Eighty Days’ showcased not only remarkable talent but also the teamwork, commitment and perseverance required to bring major productions to life. The confidence displayed by pupils on stage was matched by the dedication of those working behind the scenes, often away from the spotlight but no less important to the success of the final performance. Music, too, continues to occupy a special place within our community. From concerts and recitals to jazz evenings and ensemble performances, hundreds of pupils have contributed to an extraordinarily rich musical programme. Likewise, our annual Dance Gala brought together a record number of participants, while the Summer Exhibition once again demonstrated the creativity, originality and technical skill of our young artists. Schools should be places where pupils are encouraged not only to discover their talents but also to take creative risks, and I remain impressed by the willingness of so many pupils to do exactly that. Sport has enjoyed another outstanding year. There have been many notable successes, with teams and individuals achieving distinction at local, regional and national level. Yet what struck me most was not a particular trophy or result, important though those achievements undoubtedly are. Rather, it was the sheer scale of participation. This year, almost 700 pupils represented the School across 161 sports teams. Those figures speak
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volumes about the enthusiasm of our pupils and the commitment of our staff. Sport teaches lessons which extend far beyond the playing field: resilience after disappointment, humility in success, teamwork, discipline and the determination to improve. These qualities help shape character and remain valuable long after individual results have been forgotten.
Educational visits, exchanges, sports tours and residential experiences have further enriched school life. These opportunities allow young people to encounter new ideas, develop independence and broaden their understanding of the world. The memories they create are often among the most enduring aspects of a pupil’s school experience.
Perhaps the most remarkable statistic of all is that more than ninety per cent of pupils participated in clubs and societies during the year. Whether through debating, Duke of Edinburgh, Model United Nations, chess, science activities, community projects, creative clubs or one of the many pupil-led initiatives which continue to emerge, pupils have demonstrated an eagerness to become involved and contribute to something larger than themselves.
Taken individually, each of these achievements is worthy of celebration. Viewed collectively, however, they tell a larger story. They tell the story of a school community whose pupils are willing to participate wholeheartedly; who challenge themselves academically, creatively and physically; who support one another; who contribute positively to society; and who recognise that education is about much more than examination results alone.
That same spirit has been evident in our commitment to service.
Schools are often judged by their outcomes, and rightly so. Yet the true measure of a school lies equally in the kind of young people it helps to develop. Looking back on this year, I have been continually encouraged by the character, curiosity, kindness and ambition demonstrated by our pupils.
Through the Duke of Edinburgh Award alone, pupils contributed almost two thousand hours of volunteering within their local communities. Partnerships Day once again brought hundreds of young people from schools across Southampton together, creating opportunities for leadership, mentoring and collaboration. Throughout the year, pupils have supported charitable causes, worked alongside community organisations and devoted time and energy to helping others. Such contributions may never appear on a certificate, but they speak powerfully about the values we seek to foster.
For that reason, while there is much to celebrate in the pages that follow, I believe our greatest success remains the young people themselves.
Neal Parker Head
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From the Head of School As I come to the end of my time at KES, I find myself looking back and feeling proud of myself. Seven years ago, I arrived as a nervous Year 7 boy with very little idea of who I was, or where my future would take me. However, now as an Upper Sixth student, I leave KES with confidence, countless memories, and a huge appreciation for just how much this school has helped me grow. When I reflect on my time here, what stands out most is all the opportunities that have been available to me. KES is a place that constantly encourages its students to step out of their comfort zones and grab any and every opportunity. Whether through academic pursuits, co-curricular activities, productions, leadership roles, or simply meeting and conversing with people I may never otherwise have known, these things have all played a role in shaping me as a person. One lesson that I will carry with me long after leaving, is the importance of saying yes to opportunities, even when they seem frightening and intimidating at first. Some of the experiences that have had the greatest impact on me began as things that I was nervous to attempt. These challenges have taught me that growth rarely comes from certainty and instead confidence is often built by taking a leap of faith even if you don’t feel completely ready. Serving as Head of School has been the greatest privilege of my time at KES. It is a role that seemed unimaginably distant when I first joined the School but one, I have to admit, I had been aiming for since day
one. I am incredibly grateful to have been trusted with such responsibility and have truly loved it. The position has allowed me to work alongside inspiring staff and students, represent a community that means so much to me, and develop skills that I know will stay with me for years to come. However, it would not have been possible without realising that leadership is never an individual effort. I have been incredibly fortunate to work alongside Yasmin, Hattie, Theo and Megan, whose support, ideas, and friendship have made the experience both enjoyable and rewarding. I would also like to express my sincere thanks to Mr Parker for giving me this opportunity, as well as to Miss Grant and Dr Thomas for their guidance, encouragement and unwavering support throughout my time in the role. Their belief in me has been invaluable and has meant the world to me. Leaving KES inevitably brings mixed emotions. Whilst there is sadness in saying goodbye to a place that has been such a huge and important part of my life, there is also excitement for what lies ahead. I feel prepared and ready to take on my next steps. KES has given me far more than an education. It has given me confidence, memories, opportunities and a greater belief in myself. For those reasons, I will always be thankful.
Liam
Head of Senior School 2025-2026
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The Allen Grant Trophy 2026
The House system has always been one of the defining features of life at KES. While academic achievement rightly sits at the heart of everything we do, the House Programme provides something equally important: a sense of belonging. It gives every pupil an opportunity to represent something bigger than themselves, to work alongside students from different year groups, to discover new talents and, perhaps most importantly, to create memories that will last long after they leave the School. This year has been another wonderful example of exactly that. From the opening House Football competition, it was evident that pupils were determined to represent their Houses with pride. The standard of play was excellent throughout, but what stood out most was the sportsmanship shown on and off the pitch. The willingness of students to compete fiercely, whilst supporting one another afterwards, perfectly encapsulates what House competition should be about. Away from the playing fields, our Chess competition demonstrated a different type of excellence. Watching pupils patiently out-think one another, often over games lasting well into lunchtime, was a reminder that House events provide opportunities for every student to contribute, regardless of their interests or strengths. The quiet intensity and mutual respect shown throughout the competition reflected the character of our pupils. Creativity has also been a central theme this year. The House Art Challenge encouraged pupils to express themselves in imaginative ways while representing their Houses through artistic talent. The standard of work produced was exceptional,
with students demonstrating not only technical skill but also originality, imagination and a genuine pride in their House. It was wonderful to see pupils who may not always put themselves forward in sporting competitions finding their own way to contribute and earn valuable House points. The House Song competition remains one of the highlights of the school calendar, and this year’s performances certainly did not disappoint. It takes real courage to stand in front of the entire school and perform, yet every House embraced the occasion with enthusiasm, creativity and an infectious sense of fun. The hours of rehearsals, the commitment shown by House leaders and the pride displayed on stage demonstrated exactly why this event continues to be such a special tradition at KES. Beyond competition, one of my ambitions this year was for the programme to continue making a positive impact beyond the school gates. Our Move for Movember initiative perfectly embodied this aim. Seeing pupils and staff coming together to raise awareness of men’s health, while encouraging one another to be active, demonstrated the very best of
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the House system. It reminded us that Houses are not simply about winning points but about supporting worthwhile causes, promoting wellbeing and making a positive contribution to our wider community. Founder’s Day once again brought the whole school community together to celebrate both our history and our House spirit. It is always one of the most enjoyable occasions of the year, providing an opportunity for friendly rivalry whilst reminding us of the traditions that have shaped the school for generations. Sports Day delivered another memorable afternoon. Whether competing for records, valuable House points or simply personal pride, pupils gave everything for their House. What continues to impress me most is not necessarily those who stand on the podium but those who volunteer to compete, encourage their teammates and celebrate the achievements of others. Those moments often say more about the strength of our community than any final points table ever could. The year concluded with a new event for the House championship and one that will become one of the most anticipated events in the House calendar in years to come - the Lip Sync Battle. It is impossible not to smile watching students and staff throw themselves wholeheartedly into video performances
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that are equal parts entertaining, hilarious and brilliantly creative. The confidence shown by performers, the effort that goes into every routine and the atmosphere created by the audience made it a fitting finale to another exceptional year. It was with great delight that at the end of Sports Day we were able to announce that this year’s winners of the Allen Grant trophy were Watts House.
Although these events appear very different on the surface, they all share the same purpose. They bring people together. They create friendships across year groups. They provide opportunities for leadership, resilience and teamwork that simply cannot be replicated in the classroom. They remind us that success is not measured solely by trophies or House points but by the willingness to contribute, support others and fully embrace school life. If there is one thing I hope the House Programme continues to be, it is a place where every pupil feels they belong. Whether they are an accomplished athlete, musician, artist, strategist or performer, there should always be an opportunity for them to wear their House colours with pride and contribute to something bigger than themselves.
Mr Penn
Head of Houses
Congratulations to Watts House. 2026 Allen Grant trophy winners
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Creative A r ts
Art at KES Creativity and pure imagination are the key ingredients to making our students happy and successful when they enter the Art Studios. We have had a fantastic year with our Year 7s working in ceramics inspired by coral reefs and flying birds, as well as all the essential foundations of learning to draw, and tackling the delights of perspective and tone. The Year 8s have loved studying the work of Yayoi Kusam and making vibrant colourful pumpkins, in a year that is all about studying colour through process and artists. Some Year 8s studied Wayne Thiebaud paintings, working from ice cream cones and going big on the studio easels - fabulous! The Year 9 artists follow a dynamic foundation course, and this has culminated in extremely ambitious lino cuts and hugely technical dry point prints and large charcoal drawings. The GCSE classes have been creating wonderful work for their coursework portfolios, and the Year 11 exam work demonstrated the broad range of styles and topics that they have researched. It has been our largest GCSE Art cohort and the range and ambition of the work produced has been hugely inspiring. The A Level artists have been ambitious in their work and, as is the nature of their studies, philosophical and insightful. Their work ranged from hugely impressive canvases of almost hundreds of fish to digital banners in the Chinese tradition and exquisite drawings showing figures in motion. Their supporting essays are often commented upon by our external moderators as examples of an intellectual approach to their work. This is the same for our lovely group of A Level photographers, whose work this year ranged from the colour in unseen moments to the intellectual idea of finding lost memories when seeing work from strangers’ slides and presented via a Kodak Carousel. This is as well as projects exploring ‘adrenaline’ to ‘quiet scenes’ presented as a photobook. One highlight was seeing Evie getting to the regional final of the National Galleries Articulation prize. This was the School’s first year of entering the competition and it was fantastic to see her award presented in person at the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford.
Outside of lessons our students have made the most of the Character Design Club, helping to make props for the play ‘Around the World in 80 Days’. We have also hosted a number of taster sessions for new students to experience KES in a fun way - especially when this involves drawing ice creams! Mr Lewis’s Biological Illustration Club has again been popular this year with an exciting array of things to draw from large squids to pheasants. The students enjoyed the opportunity to study across disciplines in this eclectic club especially Gyotaku, the Japanese art of printing directly from fish.
Mr Piggott Head of Creative Arts
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Creative A r ts
Dance at KES Dance at King Edward’s has grown into an even more vibrant and essential part of our creative life this year. Pupils have embraced performance, choreography, collaboration, and challenge – inside the studio and on stage – with clear passion and commitment. From professional workshops to large-scale productions, their dedication has been inspiring. The year began with a focus on cultural dance and storytelling through movement. During Black History Week, former pupil, Sesika, led an energetic African Dance workshop for pupils across the School. Students learned about the origins and cultural importance of African dance styles, discovering how rhythm, storytelling, and community are central to these movement traditions. Later in the year, Mrs Collinson ran a lively Bollywood workshop. Pupils explored intricate rhythms, expressive gestures, and vibrant energy, broadening their appreciation of global dance traditions. In the Autumn Term, Dance was central to our production of Legally Blonde. Wrapped in pink sparkles and high energy, the show demanded stamina, precision, and commitment from every performer. Our pupils met those demands with professionalism and resilience, delivering confident, charismatic, and joyful performances. At its heart, Legally Blonde celebrates self-belief and determination, and it was wonderful to watch our cast convey those messages so powerfully. During the Christmas period, the Year 10 GCSE Dance class performed a lyrical piece in the annual Carol Service. Their sensitive, elegant performance provided a poignant, reflective moment and showcased the expressive skills developing within our GCSE cohort. A defining highlight was the 10th Anniversary Dance Gala in February. Over 110 pupils took the stage across more than 70 items, making this our most ambitious Gala yet. What began ten years ago as a small studio showcase with 30 pupils has grown into a flagship event celebrating the talent, diversity, and creativity within our dance community. Audiences saw a wide range of styles with each performance reflecting courage, individuality, and commitment.
The atmosphere was electric and filled us with pride for how far the department has come. In the Summer Term, Lower School pupils shone in the production Around the World in 80 Days. The dance ensemble explored styles inspired by locations such as America, India, and China, bringing scenes to life with energy, discipline, and enthusiasm. We were proud of the maturity and commitment shown by every ensemble member. Beyond performances, Dance continues to thrive across school life. Co-curricular clubs are popular, and assemblies and House Dance competitions showcased pupils’ creativity and teamwork. GCSE Dance remains strong and passionate: Year 11 pupils presented a powerful, thoughtful showcase exploring personal and social themes with maturity and artistic sensitivity, while Year 10 developed imaginative group choreography and advanced technical skills. They also worked with Juka Dance on set phrases and visited The Point to watch Wayne McGregor’s new work performed by Rambert School – an inspiring insight into professional contemporary practice. Looking ahead, we are excited to introduce Dance into the Year 9 curriculum, move into new facilities, develop a brand-new Dance scholarship programme, and develop our movement ensemble for next year’s production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. With every rehearsal, workshop, and performance, our pupils show creativity, resilience, and a genuine love of dance. Their achievements this year have been outstanding, and we eagerly anticipate the next chapter.
Miss Barnett Head of Dance
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Creative A r ts
Drama at KES This has been an outstanding year for Drama at KES marked by ambitious productions, exceptional student achievement, and a wide range of enriching opportunities both on and off the stage. Our whole-school production of Legally Blonde: The Musical was undoubtedly one of the highlights of the year. Widely praised by audiences and reviewers alike, the production was described by Southern Arts Reviews as being “as professionally executed as you’re likely to see on the professional stage.” Featuring outstanding acting, powerful vocals, dynamic choreography and impressive technical work, the show showcased the remarkable talent and commitment of our students. At the heart of the production was Isabelle’s outstanding performance as Elle Woods, delivering a confident and captivating portrayal of the iconic character. Memorable contributions from the Delta Nu ensemble and James’ scene-stealing performance in Gay or European? helped create a production full of energy, humour and heart. Behind the scenes, student technical teams demonstrated exceptional professionalism in lighting, sound, costumes, props and stage management, ensuring every performance ran seamlessly. Our Lower School production of Around the World in 80 Days was another tremendous success. Performed by a cast of 74 students, the production combined imaginative staging, creative use of projection, beautiful choreography and impressive ensemble performances to bring Jules Verne’s adventure vividly to life. The show celebrated cultural diversity and global understanding while highlighting the creativity, teamwork and dedication of everyone involved. Special recognition goes to student director Henry, Mx Brewer for projection design, Miss Barnett for choreography, the Art Department for their support, and Mrs Bailey for her inspiring artistic leadership and overall vision. Drama at KES extends well beyond our productions. Year 8 students participated in a successful Stage Combat Day, developing confidence and performance skills through professional training. Year 9 students worked with Box House Theatre Company,
exploring ensemble performance, improvisation and rehearsal techniques before presenting Twisted Tales. These experiences provided valuable insight into professional theatre-making while developing important life skills including communication, resilience and teamwork. Examination groups continued to produce work of an exceptionally high standard. Year 10 students created thoughtful devised performances exploring challenging themes, while Year 12 students developed an innovative movement-based piece inspired by Gecko Theatre Company. Year 13 students impressed audiences with their production of Lemons, Lemons, Lemons, Lemons, Lemons, demonstrating creativity in both performance and design. Students also benefited from engagement with industry professionals. A Level Drama students visited the National Theatre to watch Ballet Shoes, gaining valuable insight into professional performance and production processes. Lower School Drama Club and Year 7 Drama Club continued to thrive, providing younger students with opportunities to build confidence and creativity. We also congratulate all students who completed or are preparing for LAMDA examinations. Looking ahead, preparations are already underway for our next whole-school production, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Following an exceptionally strong round of auditions, we are excited to begin work on what promises to be another outstanding production. Drama at KES continues to foster creativity, confidence, collaboration and leadership, and we are immensely proud of all our students have achieved this year.
Mrs Gilmour Director of Drama
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Creative A r ts
Music at KES A year at KES always promises to be a musical one, and this year began with a memorable public recital at Romsey Abbey. Our senior Music Scholars set the bar high with a lunchtime recital programmed to delight and impress. Building upon last year’s success, KES hosted our annual Choral Partnership Day in October in which over 100 singers, including pupils from six primary schools, joined together for a day of music and mentoring. The day concluded with an impressive concert performed alongside the internationally respected choir, The Sixteen Genesis. This partnership showcased the delight of singing together and the value of musical collaboration. The Autumn Term drew to a close with the welcome return of the Carol Service to Romsey Abbey. Our musical community gathered in this historic setting to enjoy uplifting performances from the choirs and instrumentalists, whose commitment and musicianship created a truly festive atmosphere. January opened with our annual Music Competition, judged by Ben Costello, of the British and International Federation of Festivals. The occasion demonstrated the breadth of musical ability across the School and set an impressive benchmark, reflecting the commitment and hard work of our pupils. The ever popular Battle of the Bands took centre stage, brimming with enthusiasm, confidence and the unmistakable spirit of rock. Pupils delivered high energy performances that showcased not only their musical skill and originality, but also their commitment and teamwork, while raising valuable funds for Summer Camp. The Spring Term is always marked by the Junior and Senior Spring Concerts, which offer a wonderful opportunity to showcase the very best of our musical provision. These concerts celebrate the outstanding quality of our orchestral, jazz and chamber groups, whose disciplined rehearsal and musical maturity are evident in every performance. From the precision and balance of the orchestras, to the vitality and stylistic confidence of the jazz ensembles, pupils demonstrate both technical assurance and a deep enjoyment of
music making. Alongside these groups, accomplished soloists add further distinction, making the concerts a highlight of the year and a true reflection of the breadth and excellence of music across the School. Throughout the year, pupils have continued to flourish as individual musicians, with many attaining distinctions in ABRSM and Trinity examinations, reflecting both their dedication and high standards of achievement. This individual progress is further supported by the Music While You Lunch recital series, which runs across the school year and provides regular opportunities for soloists to perform to an audience. These recitals help students to develop confidence, stage presence and musical independence, nurturing emerging talent in a supportive and encouraging environment. Our ensembles continued to rehearse towards a Summer Celebration Concert, with camaraderie and mentorship at the forefront of this wonderful event. Our A Level musicians were treated to a night in the Southbank to enjoy Sir Simon Rattle conduct the Orchestra of the age of Enlightenment play Symphonie Fantastique. In June, Mr Doherty delivered an outstanding programme of enrichment for our dedicated jazz musicians, hosting a full day of workshops for Swing Band and Big Band in collaboration with the Saints Brass Band. Through high quality, side by side mentoring, pupils developed their musicianship, stylistic understanding and ensemble skills. The day culminated in a vibrant Mardi Gras themed concert, infused with the colour, character and infectious energy of New Orleans jazz. The evening was a roaring success, delighting the audience and standing as a memorable highlight of the musical year.
Ms Hayden Director of Music
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Co-curricular Clubs and Societies The Autumn Term offered 135 co-curricular clubs and societies to our senior school pupils. Newly introduced clubs included: Model United Nations, Badminton, Darts, History Podcasting, Knitting & Sewing, E-sports and gaming.
Seven pupils took part in KES’s first ever Yacht Sailing Club in the autumn. Over three consecutive Thursday evenings, they learnt how to helm and handle the sails aboard a 38ft yacht on Southampton Water. Foundation Studies students also swapped the classroom for the water in a powerboating session!
Alongside the skills and volunteering components, the expedition completes the three elements needed to achieve these highly prized awards. This year has seen the School’s largest ever cohort of Bronze participants and the programme has benefited from a set of brand new tents – generously provided by the KESPTA. Students who achieved their Gold awards were invited to Buckingham Palace to receive them.
The Duke of Edinburgh programme has attracted large numbers of participants this year with gold, silver and bronze expeditions and practices taking place in the New Forest, on Dartmoor and in the Lake District. Our students have experienced a whole range of weather conditions and beautiful landscapes and deserve high praise for their perseverance and support of each other throughout their expeditions.
Open Forum continues to expand the minds of our Sixth Form students. This year’s packed programme has included lectures from a double amputee, an Olympic bronze medallist, an explorer and author, an ex-convict, an on-line safety expert and a positive mental health advocate, to name but a few. Many of our guest speakers have been members of our alumni community.
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Our first KES Model United Nations simulation officially took place this year. Students from Years 9–13 represented different countries, debated global challenges, and developed skills in public speaking, teamwork, and diplomacy. In the second session students debated solutions to environmental sustainability working together to negotiate ideas and propose solutions to global environmental challenges.
This year saw the founding of the KES Pokémon Club. Several students from across the year groups have been showcasing their Pokémon TCG skills in close fought battles every week. The inaugural KES Pokémon tournament also crowned KES’s first PokéChampion. The chess teams have competed in several different competitions. Large numbers continue to play in the National Online Schools’ Chess League, with the A team regularly competing for the top spot in Division 1. This competition has been a fantastic introduction for some of our junior players to competitive chess, with many Year 7 pupils competing in Division 2. In the English Schools’ Chess Championship, the A team were knocked out at the regional stage. However, they fought through several rounds of the repêchage events, making it to Round E. Our younger players continued to enjoy success at the Moyles Court Interschool Tournament where KES pupils once again won all four age categories. Over the Autumn Term, our A Level Maths students demonstrated brilliant problemsolving, teamwork and mathematical insight while competing in Ritangle 2025.
The competition saw our Sixth Formers team up to tackle countless puzzles before taking on the final challenge.
KES was proud to host the first round of the Rotary Club ‘Youth Speaks’ competition in January, welcoming debating teams from local schools alongside four KES teams. Pupils tackled challenging topics — such as whether space exploration is a worthwhile investment — with confidence, knowledge and passion, demonstrating real professionalism throughout. KES came joint first on the day along with two other schools. Unfortunately, the finals were cancelled so, by default, the three teams have now emerged as joint winners of the competition! All speakers discussed their complex chosen topics with expertise, knowledge and passion.
Our Library Leaders continue to be busy supporting Library activities. In Spring, KES welcomed bestselling author Simon James Green. In the morning, he joined Open Forum and delivered a powerful talk on book censorship, with a particular focus on LGBTQ+ voices and representation. World Book Week saw a whole host of book and reading related activities take place. Library Leaders started the week with a visit to KES Prep to share their love of books with the younger pupils. On the Wednesday,
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some much-loved library books began a new chapter as they found a second home with some of our pupils and staff in our book giveaway, while Thursday brought plenty of literary competition with our Book Quiz. There were also visits from two fantastic authors.
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The event, open to Upper School, Sixth Form and staff members, was both impactful and thought-provoking, leaving attendees with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by women in the justice system and the importance of compassion and meaningful change. The KES Multicultural Evening returned in March with vibrant energy, music, and incredible flavours from around the world! The school was filled with music, dance, and wonderful aromas as traditions from across the globe were shared and celebrated. It was a fantastic reflection of the many cultures that make KES such a diverse and welcoming place.
KES Model Railway Society continues to steam ahead and members were invited to exhibit at the Romsey Model Railway Exhibition in Romsey in March. It was a very successful event, with over 600 people attending across the two days. The layout showcased was called Frattenbury which was a 1950s Hornby Dublo three rail meccano layout based on the railway stories books by the author Victor L Whitechurch. The Society currently have 4 layouts that they use and are building another. Members of Doodle Club continue to meet weekly to enjoy time with friends and express their creativity. Just one further example of the many ways that co-curricular clubs at KES helps pupils connect, create, and thrive. To mark International Women’s Day, we were delighted to welcome Lady Edwina Grosvenor to KES. A philanthropist and criminologist, Edwina shared powerful insights from her work improving outcomes for women and children in prison, sparking thoughtful discussion around social justice, rehabilitation and advocacy.
In the Spring, the Sustainability Action Club focused on raising awareness of ocean conservation, highlighting key issues including ocean pollution, the impacts of global warming, and overfishing, supported through contributions to the assembly programme. Fantastic competition entries on seahorse conservation in the Solent, were put on display in the Crush Hall, which encouraged research, creativity, and engagement across year groups. Members of the group also collected waste plastics and recyclable materials, which were transformed into a large-scale jellyfish sculpture. Along with organising a Fast Fashion event, the Club also ran a successful Valentine’s Day stall in collaboration with the Charities Commission, raising funds for the Blue Marine Foundation. The KES Darts Club started this year, meeting weekly on a Monday lunchtime. With 10-15 regulars, ranging from Year 7 to Year 10, we soon had to expand the number of boards and oches to 5. The first knock-out championship began in November with 29 entries, including a
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strong Sixth Form contingent. However, by February it was two Year 10s that had battled to the final – Ciara ‘Deadeye’, and Dillon ‘The Wolf’. A tense final went to a deciding third leg, and Ciara crowned as our first ever KES Darts Champion.
head-to-head. This achievement is made even more impressive by the fact that many of the pupils were competing for the very first time.
In the Summer Term, KES sailors experienced regular Thursday night outings on a 38ft yacht owned by the University of Southampton. Skippered by a qualified yacht master, our pupils enjoyed evening trips along the Solent and even a couple of two day long sails to the Isle of Wight for a fish and chip lunch before heading back. In May two teams of KES sailors entered the Southern Schools’ Team Racing Championships. 14 schools took part, and in the first event the KES red team did well winning 3 of their 10 races to finish 12th. The KES blue team narrowly missed out on the semi-finals winning 7 of their 10 races and finishing 5th overall – a fantastic result. One of the most inspiring developments in our co-curricular life this year has been the establishment of a student-led Basketball Club, created and run entirely by one of our pupils. His initiative, energy, and vision have transformed a simple idea into a thriving, inclusive community that embodies the very best of teamwork and the KES values. Two KES teams competed in the first Lego League Southwest regional tournament in Yeovil in the spring. One of the teams - ‘Trix with Bricks’ - delivered an exceptional performance achieving the highest score of the entire competition and going on to win the knockout challenge, where robots compete
Beyblades Club was also another addition to the co-curricular offering this year. A specific request from a group of Year 7 pupils became a reality with members meeting weekly. Experienced players took on mentor roles teaching new members of the group how to play and even began organising their own tournaments. Two KES teams also made it through the preliminary rounds of the 2026 Makyth Ventures Ignite enterprise competition held at Winchester College to compete in the final round in front of live judges. Challenged to come up with a business idea that delivered against the Circular Economy and sustainability, both teams had to present their ideas to a panel of industry experts and answer a barrage of technical questions. KES eventually triumphed, placing 1st and 2nd out of the original 29 teams.
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Digital Aspirants took part in the Government’s Cyber Explorers Cup. In just one hour, they tackled a range of eSafety and Cybersecurity challenges, completing almost all of the tasks in the allotted time!
Flag American Football Club has thrived again this year. Members were extremely grateful to be awarded some funding from the KES PTA in order to purchase some new kit, including a blue NFL Caroline Panthers jersey. The Panthers are the team that the Charlotte Exchange students see play when they are in the States and the club’s ‘MVP’ (Most Valuable Player) from the previous week has the honour of wearing it. New tags and footballs were also paid for by the PTA’s generosity.
The KES Gardening Club were busy over the summer growing season. They experimented with growing potatoes, garlic and wildflowers, installed a water butt and created a natural compost bin using recycled materials. The beautiful weather combined with the students’ enthusiasm and problem-solving ideas helped to develop a sustainable and pleasant garden for all to enjoy. All in all, it has been another hugely busy, productive but most importantly fun year on the co-curricular side of things.
Student quotes about Co-curricular clubs “Gardening Club is really relaxing and really rewarding seeing your efforts pay off. Less about learning, more about doing.” “I am more part of the community.” “In Debating, we get to do the competition and meet professionals. We did the regional competition and had been practising in Debate club for it.” “Pokémon Club teaches me skills in ordering and strategy.”
“There are just not enough days in the week for all the clubs I want to go to.” “People who don’t do clubs are just missing out.” “The biggest thing that clubs have taught me is prioritisation. How to manage three things at once…” “My skill set and my career ambitions are massively enhanced by clubs. It has made me more responsible too.”
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Charities Charities at King Edward’s remains an integral part of school life. The Charities Commission is open to all students and supported charities are selected and voted upon by the Charities Commission. A notable change to collections of non-uniform monies this year (through the school billing system) has meant that funds are readily available and pressures of finding change and staff collection has been removed. Only 7 students across school opted out of paying in this way. The total raised from non-uniform participation is currently £9790. This sum, along with continuing collections and yearly sales raised in excess of £15,000 this academic year. ‘Headway’, an organisation that provides vital support to people affected by brain injury, featured as the Autumn Term’s chosen charity, and benefited from the retiring collection at the Romsey Abbey Carol Service. In November, a group of Sixth Formers and some KES staff grew moustaches in support of the Movember – the campaign raising awareness and funds to support global projects and research into men’s health. This was followed by a ‘Big Shave’ event! In December, the entire school community worked together to fill shoe boxes with gifts for disadvantaged children overseas. These were donated to the Wessex Rotary Shoe Box Appeal. Over 100 Christmas cards were also written and delivered to local elderly residents. A non-uniform day and cookie sale raised money for CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably), a charity working to
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prevent suicide and support mental health. As well as providing financial support, the spotlight on this cause sparked meaningful conversation around this topic. Another of the highlights of the term was the Year 7 Toy Appeal Fun Run. Year 7 pupils dressed up in toy-themed costumes and took part in a sponsored fun run to support Scratch, a Southampton-based charity that provides practical help to families and individuals in need and distributes Christmas presents for struggling families.
In the Spring Term the Charities Commission selected Blue Marine Foundation supporting the replanting of salt marshes as their charity of choice. Funds were raised for Summer Camp with the annual Battle of the Bands competition in February. It was an electric evening full of creativity, musical passion and powerful vocals, with performances ranging from rock anthems to piano ballads. Collections were made for Period Poverty, with over 100 sanitary products amassed and donated to a Southampton city charity, as well as Shoe Aid, where over 120 pairs of shoes were collected and donated to this UK-based charity that sources and supplies free footwear. The School also hosted a weekend session for the team from CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young), a charity that provides free cardiac testing for young people to detect undiagnosed heart conditions.
In the Summer Term, the annual Communicare afternoon tea took place. A combined effort by the Charities Commission and Music Department brought together local elderly residents for an afternoon of music and cakes. A tuck shop during Sports Day also helped to raise further funds for CRY, in the hope that this service continues to be offered to the wider community. Non-uniform day raised money to support Hope Street. Hope Street pilots a new approach to working with justice involved women, taking a positive and compassionate approach to help achieve better outcomes for women, their children and society. Students also voted to support Papyrus in the Summer Term and were keen that funds raised would continue to support the important work that they do in suicide prevention. A further collection for Shoe Aid also took place this term too. It has been another full and busy year of charitable fundraising and activity for the School with much achieved both in terms of money, and awareness, raised. As well as the above mentioned charitable organisations, a wide range of other charities have also been supported this year.
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Partnerships The partnerships programme continues to foster a collaborative, mutually beneficial experience to ensure our KES values are shared and promoted. This year’s programme began with a Choral Partnership Day with professional ensemble ‘The Sixteen’ leading workshops and a concert for pupils across 5 primary schools and members of the many choral groups at KES. The Drama Department opened the doors of The Dobson Theatre for partnership schools to attend the final dress rehearsals of the whole school production of Legally Blonde in November, and local primary schools were invited to participate in interactive science workshops. Our ever-popular Science Roadshow continued to tour local schools. Hosted by our Sixth Form Extended Studies students, the roadshow visited 8 local schools bringing science to life. Students from Sherborne School visited for a German taster session and our Computing Department hosted students to jointly participate in the Cyber First girls’ challenge. This was a fun and engaging day of code cracking and logical problem solving. The Summer Term saw our Year 10 students given the opportunity to develop their leadership skills during our Partnerships Day. Younger pupils from local primary schools took part in DT, Science, Music, languages and English sessions. They were entertained with juggling and face painting during the lunch break and ably led throughout the day by our Year 10 scholarship students. As part of the day, we were joined by our Prep School pupils for the matinée performance of ‘Around the World in 80 Days’ which was enjoyed by all.
Our Sixth Formers have continued their partnership work with the Portsmouth Down Syndrome Association building their links with members of the teen group via a range of activities. These have included a trip to Flip Out, the annual Barn Dance and a Halloween disco. Laughter and fun have been aplenty as many very special friendships were forged. Fundraising throughout the year allowed them to fund the annual activity week for members of the PDSA group during the summer holidays. The action packed week included sports, craft sessions, games and day trips out.
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The Kings Copse Primary Partnership Project has also continued its work this year. Sixth Form pupils raised money to pay for activity days for a group of visually impaired children from the school. A diverse range of organised activities included gardening, art workshops, and theatre trips which all provided invaluable experience for Sixth Formers in supporting those with visual impairments and allowed the Kings Copse children to take part in activities that they would otherwise not have experienced.
Members of the Summer Camp team spent another busy year fundraising and organising a fourday holiday camp in the New Forest for some of Southampton’s young carers. The team accompanied the group of children, aged between aged 8-11, from the Southampton Young Carers initiative. Each young carer, paired with a sixth form “buddy”, benefited from a period of respite from their caring responsibilities during a week of fun and structured activities paid for from the team’s fundraising efforts. This year the group camped at Avon Tyrrell and enjoyed various trips out including to Long Down Activity Farm, Paulton’s Park, Highcliffe beach and Moors Valley Country Park. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive both from the young carers and from our students.
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Trips and visits
Trips and Visits It has been another year of exciting trips and visits for KES students. Some have been far flung whilst others have been nearer to home, some have been centred around academic learning and others purely for fun. All have added to the richness of our students’ experiences outside of the classroom. Our extensive trips and visits programme brings our values to life by giving pupils meaningful opportunities to “Do The Right Thing,” “Lift Others,” and “Keep Growing.” Beyond the classroom, pupils are encouraged to think independently, make responsible choices, and engage thoughtfully with new environments, strengthening their integrity and self-belief. Shared experiences on visits foster kindness, teamwork and community spirit, as pupils support one another and contribute positively to the groups and communities they encounter. At the same time, stepping into unfamiliar settings challenges pupils to embrace new perspectives, build resilience and develop a genuine love of learning, ensuring they continue to grow as confident, adaptable individuals with broadened horizons. In October, some of our Year 11 girls visited the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics at Southampton University where they toured the facilities and took part in hands-on activities that brought Physics and Engineering to life. The Year 7 and 8 pupils embraced a day of adventure at Tile Barn Outdoor Centre, taking on abseiling, high ropes, team challenges and problem-solving activities promoting teamwork and forging new friendships. Our Year 9 historians visited the WWI battlefields putting their learning into context and the Art Department visited Kew Gardens to seek inspiration for their new project to capture photos and sketches to inspire their coursework. Venturing further afield, some of our students travelled to Paris for an unforgettable 4-day adventure! They explored the city’s most famous landmarks as well as spending a day at Disneyland Paris and all whilst practising their French. The annual exchange programme to the US with our partner school Charlotte Country Day School in North Carolina took place over the autumn half-term break. KES pupils experienced an authentic
10 days of American culture, living with their host families and attending school with their exchange partners. Alongside working on their arts-based projects, they visited many local sites of interest and participated in the Halloween celebrations. Thirty Year 8 netballers headed to Cardiff during October for a much anticipated tour during which they faced three competitive Welsh clubs combined with a raft of other fun activities when not on the court.
In the Spring Term, academic day trips took place for Art, Computing, D&T, Music, Geography and Biology. Sixth Form Psychologists also attended a lecture in Winchester exploring some of the key theories underpinning the complex behaviour and psychology of serial killers. Pupils in Year 10 participated in a French Debating competition whilst Sixth Form students played in chess competitions and attended lecture workshop days. Lower School pupils had the opportunity to complete in the Lego League competition for a third year and we welcomed
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of the Science curriculum, our Drama and Creative Arts scholars graced the stalls of The National Theatre in London and Year 10 Design students were welcomed to Bournemouth University, to name just some of the academic enrichment trips that took place.
pupils from our partner school, Charlotte County Day School, for the home leg of their exchange programme. The Berlin trip during half-term included a powerful, reflective visit to Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp, a place where history becomes real, challenging, and important to confront. Salamanca offered a homestay experience, complete with Spanish lessons, a cookery class, and time to see the sights of Madrid. During the Easter break many students participated in DofE expeditions whilst others took to the pistes on the annual KES Ski Trip. Linguists also had the opportunity to enjoy Andalucía and Munich providing ample opportunities for them to put their oral language skills to good practice.
The Summer Term is always pre-occupied with examinations but, nevertheless, pupils still managed a wealth of excursions. In the May half-term, a group of Year 8 pupils enjoyed the delights of the Opal Coast in France where they were encouraged to practise the skills they had learned in the classroom with native speakers. Year 7 linguists also did the same during their time spent in Catalonia. Switzerland was the destination for a small group of Lower Sixth physicists who travelled to CERN to learn more about the The Large Hadron Collider - the world’s largest and most powerful particle accelerator. Practical activities and demonstrations helped to really bring this aspect of physics to life. Lower Sixth Geographers went on a residential fieldwork trip to Calshot, Year 8 scientists visited Marwell Zoo as part
This year’s big summer trip was the multi-sports trip to South Africa in July. 97 pupils and 12 staff took part in this trip of a lifetime visiting Johannesburg, Durban, Dundee and Hluhluwe. The group combined sightseeing each of the regions with a variety of fixtures against local schools and a fantastic safari. Our Upper School and Sixth Form netballers, hockey and rugby players had the chance to experience the joy of an overseas tour, combining their love for sport with the chance to sample local culture, meet new people and see new and very different parts of the world. Closer to home, our Lower School pupils took part in a 4-day watersports trip to Poole. Windsurfing, kayaking and paddleboarding were all on the agenda for this fun filled few days.
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Art Trip
Marwell Zoo
Berlin
CERN
Longdown Dairy Farm
Geography Trip
Munich
Catalonia
Paris
Salamanca
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Sport at KES
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Girls’ Hockey overview This season has been a testament to the dedication, resilience, and talent of our girls’ hockey programme at KES. Despite a challenging, wet season, our players have continued to push boundaries and cement our reputation as a leading hockey school in the region. The commitment shown by the girls to progress and challenge themselves has been outstanding, ensuring that hockey remains a premier sport within our community. The 1st team had a commendable campaign competing in the high-level Tier 1 League, finishing within the top 20 nationally. While they were unlucky to drop points unexpectedly, narrowly missing out on a place in the Plate finals, the quality of their hockey was exceptional. We are incredibly proud of their performance and look forward to seeing them continue their upward trajectory next year. Our U14 girls also faced a challenging draw in the U14 Cup this year; however, they remain an incredibly able year group, and we are confident they will learn from this experience to come back even stronger. Our U13 girls produced a truly incredible season,
marking their second consecutive year finishing 3rd at Nationals. Their journey began in September, and throughout a long and demanding schedule, they secured the Hampshire Cup and won the South Central round to qualify for the national stage. A massive credit for this achievement must go to Miss Lister, who coached them through all three stages of the competition with great success. Additionally, the U12 girls showed great promise, securing a welldeserved win in the Hampshire Cup and performing strongly at the South Central round. Our indoor hockey programme continues to demonstrate great strength. Both the U16 and U18 teams enjoyed successful Hampshire rounds and reached the semi-finals of the South Central competition. Furthermore, our U13 and U15 girls had a successful run at the Schools’ Indoor Championship in Crawley, providing many positive signs for the future of indoor hockey here at KES. Finally, a massive thank you must go to our dedicated staff who worked in very tough weather conditions this year. Keeping up such positive
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energy throughout a very wet season is no small feat, and we are grateful to them for providing the girls with such a fantastic experience. We would like to extend our special thanks to Miss Lister for her coaching efforts and to Miss A Timms for her immense support across the competitions, alongside her role managing and coaching the 1st team. Our sincere appreciation also goes to the wider coaching team: Miss B Timms, Mr Leatham, Mr Raisbeck, Miss Read, Mrs Penn, Miss Cole, Mrs Henderson and Mr Crichton. Well done to all the girls and coaches on a fantastic season!
Mr Crichton Head of Hockey
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Boys’ Rugby overview The 2025/26 rugby season began with enthusiasm, determination, and excitement. Across all year groups, teams competed in a wide range of local and national rugby and rugby sevens competitions, ensuring opportunities for players of all abilities to represent the School and enjoy the game.
sessions, demonstrating both skill and empathy in supporting the youngest members of the rugby programme. The year group produced several impressive performances against strong opposition and showed a willingness to play ambitious, expansive rugby that bodes well for the future.
Pre-season commenced in August, with the U15 and U18 squads undertaking two days of training ahead of the South Coast Kings Festival, while the remaining year groups followed with their own preparations the following week. New and returning players quickly settled into training, making excellent progress as the opening block fixture against Shiplake approached. Unfortunately, the South Coast Kings Festival was cancelled due to exceptionally hot weather conditions.
The U13 squads, overseen by Mr Sinclair, Mr Dirkzwager and Mr Stonier, maintained excellent attendance throughout the season and consistently rose to the challenges presented by strong opposition. The boys demonstrated resilience, skill and determination, often competing effectively against larger and more physically developed teams. Mr Sinclair’s tactical insight and Mr Dirkzwager’s infectious enthusiasm ensured that all players, including those in the larger B and C squads, enjoyed meaningful opportunities to develop and compete.
The U12 squads, led by Mr Rosenberg, Mr Nichols and Mr Jones, with occasional support from Mr Rosenberg Jr, enjoyed a highly successful introduction to KES school rugby. Their development was further enhanced by several U15 players who assisted with after-school coaching
Under the guidance of Mr Brown and Mr Laverty, the U14 squads displayed tremendous promise. Strengthened by several new arrivals, the year group combined pace, skill and excellent decision-
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making to produce some outstanding rugby. Their commitment to moving the ball into space, supporting teammates and maintaining continuity in attack made them a formidable opponent throughout the season. They were unfortunate to encounter an exceptionally strong Lord Wandsworth College side in the cup competition. Mr Collinson and Mr Kent led an enthusiastic and committed U15 group whose passion for sport was evident throughout the year, particularly during House Rugby. Despite facing several strong and well-organised teams, the squad produced some excellent performances, notably against Bryanston and Portsmouth Grammar School. While injuries and the physical demands of the season presented challenges, the players gained valuable experience and continue to show a strong commitment to improving their skills. The U16 team, coached by Mr Penn, demonstrated increasing maturity and understanding of the game as the season progressed. As greater structure was introduced to complement their natural flair, the team developed into a highly competitive unit. Opposition coaches frequently praised their powerful ball carrying, slick handling and aggressive defence, highlighting the progress made across the season. The senior squad enjoyed an excellent campaign, built upon a strong, committed group of players and healthy competition for places in both the 1st XV and 2nd XV. Under the leadership of Mr Schreuder and Mr Dormehl, they recorded impressive victories over several established rugby schools, including Bryanston, Shiplake, Bishop Wordsworth’s and Churcher’s College. Captain, Harry, supported by senior players Ioan, Luke, Ethan and Jonty, helped maintain high standards both on and off the field.
Notable sevens achievements included: •
U13 finalists at the Farleigh School Sevens.
•
14 Plate finalists at the Sherborne School U Sevens.
•
U16 finalists at the Embley Sevens.
•
18 semi-finalists at the Hampshire Schools’ U Sevens.
• The U18 squad also attended the prestigious Rosslyn Park National Schools’ Sevens for the first time in the School’s history.
These performances translated into an impressive cup run. Victories over Salisbury Sixth Form College, Brockenhurst College and Farnborough Sixth Form College secured a place in the last sixteen of the National Vase competition, where the team’s journey ultimately came to an end against Reed’s School.
Overall, the season was characterised by commitment, enjoyment and significant development across all age groups. The continued growth of the rugby programme, combined with the dedication of players, coaches and parents, provides a strong platform for future success.
One of the major success stories of the year was the continued growth of the rugby sevens programme. Weekly training sessions allowed players to develop their understanding of the shorter format and apply their fifteen-a-side skills in new ways. Every age group embraced the challenge and produced several outstanding performances throughout the season.
Mr Stonier Head of Rugby
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Girls’ Netball overview This year has been another highly successful one for netball at KES, with strong participation across all age groups and continued progress in both development and performance teams. Over the course of the year, 20 teams have taken to the court, and more than 160 students have proudly represented KES netball - an excellent reflection of the enthusiasm and commitment across the programme. From the U12s through to the senior squads, players have demonstrated resilience, teamwork, and a genuine passion for the game, with many memorable moments both on and off the court. The U12 team enjoyed an impressive run in the ‘Sisters n Sport’ Plate, recording notable victories over Brighton Girls’ School and Walthamstow. Their journey concluded in the South semi-finals following a challenging match against St John’s, Leatherhead. This marks a third consecutive strong cup campaign under Mrs Henderson’s coaching, laying a solid foundation for continued success in the years ahead.
The U13s progressed to the fourth round of the Sport Magazine competition, securing convincing wins over Embley and Portsmouth High along the way. A highlight of their season was the tour to Cardiff, where 30 students had the opportunity to gain valuable match experience while also building team cohesion and creating lasting memories off the court. My thanks go to Mrs Sheppard, Miss Read and Miss Timms, whose support and organisation ensured the tour was such a success. The U14 squad competed in the ‘Sisters n Sport’ cup, where they faced a strong Parkstone Grammar side. They also took part in the National Schools’ Competition, with a combined team featuring students from Year 7, Year 8, and Year 9. Despite narrowly missing out on qualification for the regional round, the resilience and work ethic shown by this group has been impressive. Under the guidance of Miss Timms, a positive and supportive culture has been established where students feel able to be open and honest with one another - an approach that has played a key role in their development and will continue to be a real asset as they progress.
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The U15s approached this season as a key building year, with many players stepping up to represent the age group above on several occasions. This exposure to higher-level competition will undoubtedly benefit the squad as they continue to develop and prepare for the challenges of next season. The U16 team had another exceptional campaign, with the combined Year 10 and Year 11 squad reaching the regional finals for a second consecutive year. Placed in a particularly competitive pool, they faced tough opposition and were unfortunate to miss out on a place in the semifinals. A special thank you goes to Miss Read for her continued dedication and hard work with this group. The 1st team enjoyed a remarkable season - one that will certainly be remembered for years to come. Reaching the regional finals set the tone early on, and the squad built momentum throughout the season with strong performances in a number of competitive tournaments. They claimed victory in the Plate competition at the Seaford Southern 7s tournament, where Emma was deservedly recognised as Shooter of the Tournament. However, the standout moment came on the final Saturday of the season, as the team were crowned Cup winners at the Lord Wandsworth College Tournament - a
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fitting and memorable end, particularly for those in the Upper Sixth. The South Africa multi sports tour provided an exciting opportunity for students in Year 11 and the Sixth Form to experience netball in a different environment, while also exploring a new culture and creating lifelong memories. A heartfelt thank you goes to all staff, coaches, parents, and umpires who have supported KES netball throughout the season. The continued growth of the programme is a testament to the enthusiasm and commitment of everyone involved. To those leaving in Year 11 and Upper Sixth, I wish you every success in the next stage of your journeys. I look forward to following your netball progress and hope to see many of you return for the OE Sports Festival in the years to come.
Miss Lister Head of Netball
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Boys’ Hockey overview The KES boys’ hockey programme has enjoyed an outstanding season, characterised by significant achievements on the national stage and a remarkable depth of talent across all age groups. It has been a year of great resilience and high-quality hockey, with the boys consistently demonstrating their ability to compete against the best schools in the country. This success is particularly impressive given the challenging winter weather, yet the commitment remained unwavering, with over 50 boys consistently attending after-school training sessions per age group. The 1st XI had a fantastic run in the England Hockey Tier 1 competition. A decisive final-day result secured their spot in the top 16 in the country and earned them a place in the Plate playoffs. Peaking at exactly the right time, the team claimed a brilliant away victory against a very strong Kent College, setting up a home semi-final against Rugby School. In a high-stakes match with a spot in the Lee Valley final on the line, the boys put in a tremendous effort. Despite a final push from Rugby, our boys stood tall to secure a win. In the final, KES started
brilliantly, scoring two quick goals and creating numerous chances. Although the loss of Seth (who had been incredible in the opening 30 minutes) was a blow, and Gresham’s managed to edge ahead, the boys fought until the final whistle. Finishing 10th in England with such a small, dedicated squad is a remarkable achievement. Special thanks must go to team captain, Eddie, and Dr Fewtrell for the immense energy and leadership they provided throughout this campaign. Our indoor hockey programme continues to thrive, reaching new heights this year. For the first time, both the U16 and U18 squads qualified for the National Finals. This was a significant achievement, particularly as both teams had to overcome being outside contenders after the Hampshire rounds. The U18s finished 7th and the U16s finished 6th, a fitting reward for years of dedicated indoor training. With both squads featuring very young players, the future of our indoor programme looks exceptionally bright. Elsewhere, our U14 boys performed brilliantly to reach the top 8 in England in the Tier 1 Cup, while the U12 and U13 age groups both secured victory
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in their respective In2 Hockey Hampshire finals and performed creditably at the South Central rounds. The massive depth of talent and the consistent quality of players across all age groups at KES is becoming increasingly evident. We owe a huge debt of gratitude to the dedicated coaching staff who worked tirelessly through a tough winter to ensure the boys had a fantastic experience. Our sincere thanks go to Dr Fewtrell, Mr Stonier, Mr Mixer, Mr Raisbeck, Mr Barley, Miss A Timms, Mr Sheppard, Mr Schreuder, Mr Kent, Mr Leatham, Mr Crichton, and Mr Philpott. Well done to all the boys for their hard work and to the coaches for their continued investment in the boys’ hockey programme at KES.
Mr Crichton Head of Hockey
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Cricket overview As I write my final cricket overview as Head of Cricket at KES, I find myself reflecting less on scorecards, league tables and cup runs, and more on the people, memories and experiences that have made this such a rewarding chapter of my career. Cricket has always been about far more than results. Whilst success on the field is important, the true measure of a school cricket programme lies in the opportunities it creates, the experiences it provides and the young people it helps develop. Looking back on my time leading cricket at KES, these are the aspects of which I am most proud. When I took responsibility for cricket in 2018, I inherited a sport with enormous potential. Thanks to the dedication of staff, the enthusiasm of our pupils and the unwavering support of parents and the School, that potential has flourished into one of the strongest and most vibrant cricket programmes in the region. The numbers tell part of the story. In 2026 alone, more than 380 pupils represented the School across over 200 fixtures. Teams now compete across every
age group, providing opportunities for experienced players and complete beginners alike. Yet those statistics cannot capture the excitement of wearing a KES cricket shirt for the first time, the friendships formed during tours, or the confidence gained through representing the School. Perhaps the most significant development during my time has been the remarkable growth of girls’ cricket. What once seemed an ambitious aspiration has become one of KES’s greatest success stories. The introduction of the Girls’ 1st XI in 2022 marked a landmark moment, but it was only the beginning. Since then, participation has flourished, standards have risen dramatically and our players have progressed to county, regional, national and international cricket. The success of the girls’ programme has never simply been about trophies. It has been about creating opportunities, inspiring future generations and developing confident young women. Seeing pupils arrive with little or no cricket experience and leave as accomplished players, leaders and role models has been one of the greatest privileges
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of my role. The journey reached another proud milestone this year when former pupil Sanya Khurana represented the Netherlands at the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup on home soil. Alongside this growth, the boys’ programme has continued to thrive. Across recent years, our teams have enjoyed sustained success in county, regional and national competitions. County titles, regional finals and national cup runs have become familiar features of the season, reflecting not only the talent of our pupils but also a culture of hard work, ambition and teamwork that runs throughout the programme. One of the developments of which I am particularly proud has been establishing a clear identity for KES cricket. Built on positivity, intent, resilience and pride in representing the School, this philosophy has created consistency across all age groups while ensuring that every player, regardless of ability, feels valued and supported. The 2026 season has provided a fitting conclusion. The boys once again enjoyed an excellent campaign, with the U15A side reaching both the Inspire Sport 40 Over Regional Quarter-Finals and the ECSA Regional Semi-Finals, while the U14A team successfully defended their County Championship title. The girls produced one of the finest seasons in the programme’s history. The U15A side reached the ECB Indoor Regional Finals for the second consecutive year, while the U13A team enjoyed an extraordinary campaign. After winning the ECB Indoor County Finals and finishing third at the Regional Finals, they reached the School Sport Magazine Outdoor National Finals for the first time in KES history, finishing third in the country against some of the strongest cricket schools in England. It is a remarkable achievement and one that promises an exciting future for girls’ cricket at KES. I have also been fortunate to work alongside an exceptional group of colleagues. The success of KES cricket has never been the work of one individual. Every coach who has given up evenings during the winter, spent Saturdays on the boundary, prepared pitches, driven minibuses or simply encouraged a player who needed support has contributed to what this programme has become. Their passion and commitment have created an environment in which pupils can flourish. Above all, I would like to thank the pupils. It has been a privilege not only to coach so many talented
cricketers but also so many outstanding young people. Watching former pupils progress into club, county and professional cricket has been immensely rewarding. As a community, we have watched with excitement and pride as Upper Sixth KES pupil, Ben Mayes, has seen his cricketing career sky rocket. He recently played a key role in England’s U19s run to the final of the U19 Cricket World Cup. Batting at number 3, he finished the tournament as the leading run scorer, amassing 444 runs at an average of 74. This included him smashing 191 off 117 balls against Scotland. Last year Ben signed his first professional deal with Hampshire Cricket Club which will see him remain at Utilita Bowl until the end of the 2027 season. He regularly represented the Hampshire side in the 2025 One Day Cup and also featured in T20 Vitality Blast Finals Day. Whilst my time at KES comes to an end, the story of cricket here is only just beginning. I leave knowing the programme is in an incredibly strong position and look forward to watching it continue to grow and succeed in the years ahead. I will always feel immensely proud to have played a small part in its journey.
Mr Penn Head of Cricket
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Fundraising and Alumni 2025/2026 has been a milestone year in the School’s history for fundraising and alumni activity. In October, we publicly launched our Boundless Futures Giving Campaign. Our aim is to raise £5 million for bursaries by 2030, with the ambition that 1 in 10 of the admissions offers we make that year will be for a bursary. We have raised over £1 million this academic year alone, taking our overall campaign total past £2 million. We are incredibly grateful to our whole community for their support and coming together to do something significant for the next generation. This matters because Bursary Awards at KES transform lives. At our launch event in March, Campaign Ambassadors Amanda and Dom spoke powerfully about the difference that coming to KES through a Bursary Award had made to their lives.
Expert Sessions and Society talks. Volunteering is a wonderful experience for alumni and pupils alike, and we are so grateful to our OEs for paying it forward and giving our pupils the advice they wished they had. Our events programme also continued to be well attended, with 365 guests coming along. One particular highlight was our 10-year reunion in November. The Class of 2015 were a close year group and many of that year had stayed in close touch since KES, so it was no surprise that over 80 of the year group came back for the reunion. We also had a number of other successful events: London Drinks, a 25 year reunion for the Classes of 2000 and 2001, Christmas Drinks, our Campaign Launch event and the OE Sports Festival.
“It wasn’t just me going to private school, it was we – my family, my teachers and my community. It was a shift in my life. That was the most important thing about the bursary – that my life was on one path, and it picked me up and put me on another”. Amanda
It is wonderful have such a supportive and engaged alumni community. Thank you very much to everyone who has donated, volunteered or advocated for King Edward’s this year.
“I had seven incredible years through King Edward’s with experiences that I didn’t even think were possible. It really does break down barriers that I thought were in front of me forever”. Dom
Director of Development
Sarah Butterworth, Director of Schools at the Royal National Children’s Springboard Foundation and Neal Parker, Head at KES, also reflected on how the supportive community and varied opportunities that KES provides can be life changing for local young people. It was a wonderful evening and a number of supporters chose to make a donation after hearing about the power of Bursary Awards first hand. Another vital part of our campaign is to encourage 500 volunteers to give their time to support our pupils through careers advice. Our alumni are surpassing even our expectations, with 106 having volunteered this year. The School’s new Head of Futures, Mrs Sparkes, is keen to embed careers advice throughout the School. Our alumni supported this through speaking at new Careers Carousels for Years 7-9, giving our younger pupils an early opportunity to ask questions about the world of work. Our pupils also benefited from hearing from a number of leading speakers at Open Forum, Meet the
Richard Wilson
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Leaving Staff Paul Robinson Paul leaves us after a distinguished 25 years of service to KES that began back in September 2001. Currently the longest serving member of the Maths department, Paul has done it all in his time here; from the beginnings of algebra with the year 7s to complex numbers and differential equations with the A Level Further Maths groups. He has been a pioneer of the use of technology in learning maths, specialising on this in one of his two master’s degrees. Away from the classroom, Paul enriched the lives of countless young people with his staggering array of co-curricular activities. Well known for his Photography Club, he also started the KES Bees and the Rocketry Club and became a fencing coach when the opportunity arose. Another major part of Paul’s journey here at KES has been his commitment to his faith, which culminated in him serving as School Chaplain where he delivered thoughtful and inclusive services and also ran the Christian Union. He now moves into the next phase of life but I don’t think he would call it retirement; he will certainly find many more things to stimulate his brilliant mind and beautiful soul.
Laura-Jane Gibbs Laura Jane joined KES in 2013 as Head of Geography and quickly became a driving force within the department. She impressed both with the vision that she brought to raising the profile of the department and heightening the experience of geography for the pupils. Her organisational and administrative skills are outstanding and she is an excellent teacher and esteemed colleague. Her management and leadership skills really came to the fore during the Covid lockdowns when she was a formidable repository of calm and common sense. Laura Jane developed strong pastoral skills during her time as an Upper School Tutor making her appointment as Sixth Form Head of Year a natural progression. In this role, she has shown deep compassion and care for all the students in her charge, always ensuring that every young person felt supported and valued. We thank her for the outstanding contribution she has made to the life of the School.
Emma Ridley Emma joined KES in September 2011 and established herself as a popular member of the Maths department and the School as a whole. She taught across the range of abilities and also served as Second in Department for Maths for a time before starting her own family. Emma was always willing to contribute outside of the classroom and took part in numerous trips, most notably to South Africa and on the ski trip, but also the watersports trips in the summer holidays. Emma leaves us to follow a new career path away from the classroom but will always be welcome to take her rightful place as the spiritual leader of the Maths department quiz team.
Charlie Dormehl Charlie arrived at KES in 2020 to teach History and soon showed himself to be the epitome of the all-round teacher, in the very best sense of the phrase. Equally adept at motivating and energising pupils in the classroom, guiding and inspiring on the sports field and dealing sensitively with pastoral concerns in his role as a year head, Charlie has had a huge impact at KES in every area of school life. It was not a surprise, therefore, that he eventually sought out a role elsewhere that would allow him to combine these talents in a more formal manner and thus he leaves us to become a Housemaster at Canford. He goes with our very best wishes for the future and the hope that he will not become a stranger to his many friends here.
Hannah Penn Over the past 11 years Hannah has taken on an impressive range of responsibilities at KES. Alongside her teaching, she has worked as an Assistant Head of Year in both the Upper and Lower School, showing a genuine concern for the students’ wellbeing every day. She also took on the role of E-Safety Lead, which included hosting an e-safety conference and helping equip students to navigate an increasingly complex
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digital world. It is, however, the Elite Sports Performer Programme that will be Hannah’s lasting legacy. She has created a truly holistic programme that supports talented athletes both on and off the field. She has been a passionate advocate for girls’ sport, ensuring female athletes have every opportunity to thrive and has coached hockey, netball, rounders and cricket. She has accompanied various sports tours at home and abroad and we thank her for all she has done.
Alex Penn Alex leaves the School after ten years of service to take up a pastoral leadership role at his former school in Somerset. Since joining as a sports coach, before becoming Head of Cricket, Alex has made a wonderful contribution to both sport and the wider life of the School. Under his leadership, the cricket programme has expanded significantly, achieving sustained success at county and regional level while earning national recognition as one of the country’s leading school cricket programmes. He has transformed the provision of girls’ cricket, overseeing its rapid growth following its introduction as the girls’ principal summer sport and helping develop the School’s first professional female cricketer. Beyond sport, Alex has been a highly respected teacher, mentor and, more recently, Head of Houses, bringing energy, integrity and care to every role. His commitment to developing young people, both on and off the field, has left a lasting impact on students and colleagues alike. We wish, Alex, Hannah and their family every happiness and success in the future.
James Raisbeck James has made an outstanding contribution to KES during his three years with the Sports department, becoming an integral part of the hockey programme and wider sporting community. Appointed on the strength of his evident passion and knowledge for hockey, he quickly proved that decision to be an excellent one. James has consistently inspired students through his high expectations and commitment to their development, helping many achieve success both individually and as teams. His standout achievement came in 2025 when he guided the U15 boys’ hockey team to the National Final. He also earned the respect of our senior players, becoming the preferred coach to accompany the 1st XI girls for their Tier 1 fixtures,
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while providing invaluable support to the Boys’ 1st XI and indoor hockey programme. Beyond hockey, James contributed enthusiastically to rugby, cricket and numerous sports tours. We thank him and wish him every success as he begins his career in the fire service.
Gareth Schreuder Gareth joined us from Solent University and, from the outset, his enthusiasm, knowledge, and commitment to sport were evident. He demonstrated an unwavering commitment to developing young athletes and dedicated countless hours to working one-to-one with cricketers across all age groups and abilities. During his time here, he also managed the 1st XV rugby team, and, under his guidance, they enjoyed a highly successful season. In addition to his work in rugby and cricket, Gareth also led netball and hockey teams. His positive outlook, energy, and determination were appreciated by both students and colleagues alike. He has always been a fantastic member of the team and, as he leaves us to begin his teacher training, he will be greatly missed. Good luck Gareth, we wish you every success and happiness in the future.
Lucy Read Although Lucy has been at KES for just two years, she has made an exceptional impact through her professionalism, expertise and genuine commitment to students. An outstanding teacher of Academic PE, her meticulous planning and high standards have consistently delivered excellent outcomes. She has also been an inspirational netball coach, developing both the skills and enthusiasm of countless players, while her calm, thoughtful approach has made her a trusted colleague and natural pastoral leader. Lucy leaves KES to join Canford School, where she will undoubtedly enjoy continued success. We thank her for her outstanding contribution and wish her every happiness in the next stage of her career.
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Professional Services Staff Alex Stewart Alex joined the school three years ago and, quickly, proved herself to be an invaluable member of the library team. Her extensive knowledge of both fiction and non-fiction, combined with a passion for matching each reader with the right book, has made her an asset to the School. Many lunchtimes, she could be found at the centre of a lively group of student library leaders, fostering a welcoming and engaging environment. During quieter moments, she channelled her creativity into producing eye-catching and inspiring displays. Alongside her library work, Alex is an accomplished children’s nonfiction author, with an impressive range of published books to her name. We wish her every success as she continues her writing career and can’t wait to read her next chapter.
Sally Westley Sally joined KES in 2021 as part of the reception team. Well known for her cheerful nature, sense of humour and unstoppable zest for life, she has built wonderful relationships with staff, pupils and parents alike. Whether she is signing in inspectors, greeting prospective parents and children, issuing urgent reminders to pupils about lost property or encouraging Olympiclevel sprints to get to the bus before it leaves - Sally has done it all, and always, with her big trademark smile! Outside of school, she is a huge sports fan and gig enthusiast. While officially retiring, we all know she’s simply upgrading to full-time fun: family time, camper van adventures while following her favourite teams and bands. Enjoy it all, we’ll miss you, Sal!
Glenda Yazici Glenda has been a valued Science Technician in the Junior Science department since 2020. During her time with us, she quickly became a central and much-appreciated member of the team. Always willing to support colleagues, Glenda brought enthusiasm, expertise, and a collaborative spirit to the department, regularly
helping to develop and test new practical activities for students. Beyond her core responsibilities, Glenda played a key role in our lunchtime Science Club and was invaluable during Open Evenings, helping to showcase the department at its best. She also took exceptional care of our many departmental animals, including butterflies, stick insects, and ducklings, ensuring their wellbeing with dedication and enthusiasm. We are grateful for Glenda’s contribution and we wish her every success and happiness in her new role.
Annie Davison Annie Davison has been the KES School Counsellor for nearly twenty-two years, and in that time has provided crucial support to countless members of our community, both pupils and staff alike. She has also been a pioneer in that time of mindfulness at the School, helping to teach the practice and ensure that pupils have a life skill that will serve them well long after they have left education. We wish her a long, peaceful retirement and are thankful that she made KES a kinder place every day that she was here.
Maryna Khamzina Maryna joined us in 2022 as we found ourselves in a completely new situation - inviting Ukrainian pupils who had needed to flee the country - into KES. Since the day she arrived, Maryna has been an incredible support to our Ukrainian pupils in the most challenging of circumstances. Her dedication has provided pupils with not just education but also a sense of safety and belonging. Maryna’s patience and kindness have made a real difference, especially in helping students with their literacy and spellings, guiding them with care and commitment. She has been an inspiring and caring presence in our school and will be greatly missed.
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