The
Vigornian 2024 / 25
THE KING’S SCHOOL FOUNDATION, WORCESTER Vigornian 2024/25 • 1
THE VIGORNIAN 2024/25 Number 261 Editor: Emma Kate Booth Editorial Team: Sarah Bradley, Sian Lucas and Victoria Lloyd-Smith Designer: Catherine Perera Marketing Photography: Emily Ward and Emma Southall Published by: The King’s School, Worcester Printed by: The Graphic Design House © 2026 The King’s School, Worcester
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Contents 9
Common Room Notes
15 Academic 41 Creative and Performing Arts 53 Sport 87 Clubs and Activities 103 Student Editorial Team 109 119 123 127
Pastoral King’s Hawford
King’s St Alban’s Old Vigornians, Development Trust and Archives
Vigornian 2024/25 • 3
D
u s k descends from the Malvern hills and an air of calm rolls across College Green. The sparkle of Christmas trees and fairy lights twinkle in the fading light. As I sit at my desk, marking End of Term Tests and writing up EPQ Presentations before we finish for Christmas, I find my mind wandering, inevitably, to food. When was the last time I ate? How many gingerbread biscuits are too many? Asking for a friend... In the busyness of modern life, it is often easy to forget the importance of shared meals, rather than just eating to fuel the next tasks of the day. We are lucky here at King’s; across generations, pupils and staff have gathered to eat together, sometimes hurriedly, sometimes ceremonially, but always in ways which quietly reinforce a sense of belonging. Sitting side by side, stories are shared, friendships are formed and the day pauses just long enough for stresses to crawl into the background. My end of term hanger(!) got me thinking about food at King’s and how, if someone were to time travel to any point in the history of the School, seeing shared meals would be a constant. The OV community kindly shared their memories of life in the Dining Hall at King’s. They fondly remembered various pasta dishes and fruit crumbles (especially when it was four parts crumble to one part fruit) and chocolate sponge pudding was mentioned several times! They were not waxing quite as lyrically about lumpy potatoes and watery gravy...What is interesting, however, is how easily they were able to recall what they used to eat during their time at school. Whilst I imagine that the individual conversations had in the Dining Hall are long forgotten, it is this shared space and sharing of meals which creates an important sense of community. Food also carries memory; a particular meal, smell or lunchtime ritual can instantly transport us back to school days, reminding us that community is built as much around tables as it is in classrooms. Indeed, The King’s School originated within the
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Editorial walls of College Hall which was, in its previous life, the monks’ refectory. A few years ago, I happened across the King’s School Worcestershire Cookery Book. In the foreword, Barbara Curle tells us that “The first King’s School Cookery Book published in 1970 proved a great success, bringing, we are told, much pleasure and useful information to its readers”. This year, I invited staff and students to choose a recipe to make from the book in an attempt to connect with our school history in a different way. You can find the fruits of their labours on the next page... My research into culinary life at King’s led me to former pupil, Edward Winslow. I was lucky enough to see his name written in the Scholars’ Admittance Register of King’s pupils, dated 20th August 1606 and housed in Worcester Cathedral Library. There is a quiet type of magic in reading handwritten documents from hundreds of years ago; the echoes of not-so-distant voices remind us that we are all part of the patchwork of life making up our school. What is fascinating is that most of our understanding of the American holiday Thanksgiving is indeed thanks to this Old Vigornian, who travelled to America on the Mayflower. In a letter written in December 1621, Winslow discusses the details of their harvest festival, “Our harvest being gotten in, our governor sent four men on fowling, that so we might after a special manner rejoice together, after we had gathered the fruits of our labors”. I was born in America and have, therefore, always been interested in this holiday. Thanksgiving occupies a complicated place in history. Whilst it is often presented as a story of harmony and shared celebration, it is rooted in a period of profound injustice and loss. Learning about the past means recognising that traditions can be both meaningful and uncomfortable. Shared meals, like the ones we have every day at school, remind us not just of history, but of our responsibility to create communities rooted in respect and care. I have thoroughly enjoyed exploring our school history and community through food. Across the centuries, food has helped us to shape our shared sense of identity and belonging. If you are reading this and have your own memories of food here at King’s or
recipes, I would love to hear them. Who knows, might there even be an updated King’s cookbook on the horizon? I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Sarah Bradley, Sian Lucas and Catherine Perera. Their hard work, dedication and expertise help to keep this magazine the wonderful historical document it is. It has also been a pleasure welcoming Victoria LloydSmith to the Editorial Team this year; I hope you enjoy her reflections on the Cathedral’s pink giraffe on page 8. Amanda Sutcliffe and Hannah Sparrey have done a wonderful job showcasing the Old Vigornian community, as always, and I am particularly grateful to Hannah, who helped me with all the food research! I would also like to echo Alfie Hale’s words on p.104 and to extend my thanks to Alison Oliver. It has been a privilege to be part of King’s history under its first female leadership. I hope you enjoy this year’s edition of The Vigornian. Truly it is inspiring to observe all that life at King’s has to offer. And, next time we sit down to share a meal with others, let us remember that across time and change, it is the simple act of coming together that continues to nourish the heart of our school. Until next year, Emma Kate Booth
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Vigornian 2024/25 • 5
I
A Message from the Acting Head
write as the academic year comes to a close. It is a year which has seen its share of transformation. Yet, for the third year in a row, King’s was a finalist in the Co-Educational School of the Year Award in the Independent School of the Year Awards 2024. Our November ISI Inspection confirmed compliance with all Independent School Standards and recognised many excellent features of the Foundation’s provision. We began the year having celebrated strong examination results in the Summer of 2024 and students moving to their post-18 routes. This year has seen the completion of our Sixth Form Centre in a transformation of the School House building. The range of sixth Form study spaces and teaching rooms we now have, along with Careers suite and dedicated Sixth Form café, complement and enhance our Sixth Formers’ learning – giving them the very best chance to maximise their life chances. Our Upper Sixth leavers were the first cohort to have completed the revised Sixth Form Curriculum, a curriculum built upon academic strength and support, along with Life Skills and Electives. As such, our Sixth Formers leave us with deep understanding and expertise in their A-level subjects, competencies and insights for life, along with a specialist interest or skill to make them stand out as they move to their post-18 choices. Over the course of this year, examples of shaping the life and experience of all within the Foundation have arisen both within and beyond the classroom. September’s Cathedral concert in which pupils and students across the Foundation performed with the Drakensburg Boys’ Choir remains what I think will be a lifetime highlight for me for its celebration and affirmation of all that music brings to life, indeed the very power that music has. October’s half-term enabled Fifth Form artists to immerse themselves in the spirit and vitality of their craft in the annual St Ives’ trip, a trip I am certain which remains a highlight for all. Our Autumn Term musical production of White Christmas
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saw performers sparkle and delight in equal measure. Bridging the Autumn and Spring Terms were the annual Boat Club Charity Rowing challenge and Football Tour to Portugal. Across the year, Olympiads in Linguistics and Mathematics gave rise to significant success with respectively a first time Silver for King’s in Linguistics and both a Distinction and a Merit in Mathematics. Other academic highlights have included a current Lower Sixth student submitting a winning essay Peterhouse’s Kelvin Biological Sciences Essay Competition. To achieve this in a field of 308 entries is simply superb. In addition, after a rigorous selection process, two Fifth Form students were awarded Arkwright Engineering Scholarships, which will support them through their A-levels, perhaps encouraging them to pursue engineering, computing or technical design at university or through a higher-level apprenticeship. One of our Lower Remove pupils recently won the Young Composers’ Competition at Worcestershire’s Elgar Festival, and a Lower Sixth student was a finalist in the Worcestershire Young Poet Laureate competition. In January, chamber choirs from King’s Worcester, King’s Gloucester and Hereford Cathedral School came together to sing Choral Evensong in Worcester Cathedral. Later in the term, the KSW chamber choir were invited to perform in a concert with the prestigious professional choir, The Armonico Consort, at Malvern Theatres. All this in addition to the Young Performers, School and Chamber concerts and Open Mic Nights! We were also very excited to follow the progress of ‘Split Second’, a fantastic band which includes two highly accomplished King’s musicians. The Spring Term saw many accolades for Sport, including our U14 Hockey team being crowned National Plate Winners, our U18 Rugby 7s team being Bowl Finalists at Rosslyn Park National 7s and our U16 Netball team being National Finalists. Other examples of sporting excellence across the year from our pupils and students include: our U13 Hockey team taking Silver in the ISHC and 5th place in National Finals, notably the first King’s team to have
reached this stage in the tournament; U18 Boys and Girls Medley relay teams finishing in the top 12 in the country in ESSA Swimming Championships; first place in the County Championships for our U16 Girls’ Badminton; U13 & U15 Girls Athletics teams making Regional Finals for ESAA Track & Field Cup; and, as I write, our U18 Girls’ Cricket - currently in the Quarter Final of National 100 ball competition and the 4th round of T20. The British Rowing Indoor Championships, saw our Senior Mixed Relay Team and Upper Remove pupils crowned champions, with four other individual and team medals. Eight crews represented King’s and the West Midlands against 14 regions at the Junior Inter Regional Championships. Further outstanding performances came from all our crews at national events, including our Championship Coxed Four in an A-Final at the National Schools’ Regatta. Spring half-term gave opportunities for pupils to step in tune for the annual Disney Dance Tour, provide the tune in the biennial Music Tour to Belgium, bowl, bat and run to the tune in the Cricket Tour to Sri Lanka and carve out a tune in the Removes Ski Trip – if you’ll forgive my rather clumsy attempt at an extended pun. Later in the term, our Young Enterprise team were highly commended for their creative concept – Bettertime – which I can attest to being a truly innovative initiative! Our RAF Section from the Combined Cadet Force excelled once again at the National Air Squadron Trophy Competition. Amongst the innumerable commendations given at the annual CCF Mess Dinner, two Lower Sixth cadets’ achievements were celebrated, one who had completed the Senior Cadet Instructors Course and one the Cadet Infantry Battle Course. Closing the Spring Term, our annual Careers Extravaganza welcomed over 500 pupils from across the county to be informed and inspired by some 50 businesses, companies and industries. Removes Languages Exchanges to Le Vésinet, Cologne and Algecir, a CCF Adventurous Training Camp, DofE Gold Practice Expedition and DofE Silver Expedition, Cricket Tours – along with focused revision for Fifth
Form and Upper Sixth in their external examinations and the Lower Sixth for their examinations – punctuated the Easter Holiday before the start of the final term of the year. The term began with stunning examples of King’s spirit and excellence – Senior Sports Day, the Summer Concert and the Dance production, Wonderland! Through the year, the Sixth Form Charity Committee led us in regular fundraising initiatives, and two highlights being the Fort Royal Summer Party and the Christmas Senior Citizens celebration. In addition, as part of the Life Skills programme, Sixth Formers have engaged in weekly volunteering across the community. Our Student Council also took this baton of service, this year focusing on inclusivity. Model United Nations continued to enjoy regular Conferences – with skills built from weekly debates – affording much challenge, and delegates take home worthily secured awards. We were delighted to launch this year our Swimming Academy, an academy which ensures that elite performers and those with developing talents are supported at the highest levels. One Lower Sixth student, and member of the academy, has joined the Swim England Endurance Pathway, a truly superb accolade. There are many other examples of individual excellence and triumph and it would take some time to speak of them all, as much as I would like to, but I will also make mention of three other students, also training at national level in their sport – in England Cricket, the England U19 Cricket World Cup and England U18 Rugby. Such achievements are as impressive as they are hard won.
Ten Upper Sixth students have this year already completed their Gold DofE – an exceptional achievement with 13 others also underway. Further to this, we have 23 Lower Sixth students currently pursuing their Gold Award with 46 enrolled for Silver and 97 for Bronze. The year drew to its close with the Lower Years production of The Phantom Tollbooth, following in the footsteps of the senior play, Class, and regular Spotlight showcases. The summer now awaits us, with CCF camps, the Alps Geography trip, Sports tours to South Africa, and Gold DofE expedition, before results days and pre-season training sessions bring us towards a new academic year in a reassuring cycle which starts anew its own process of transformation. We wished a very fond farewell to Mr Mark Warren, Captain Dave Grinnell and Mr Antonio Zarro. Captain Grinnell joined King’s 21 years ago. His contribution to so many aspects of school life – Senior Games, DofE, CCF – evidences his broad expertise and his total commitment to an education which is founded upon service and participation. Mr Warren has inspired so many King’s pupils and students in their English lessons and on the cricket field over the years. His warmth, wit and great commitment will be very much missed. Mr Zarro has been a most appreciated addition to our Business and Economics department over recent years and we are most grateful to him for his contribution. We offer great thanks and appreciation to our leaving Super Gaps and Assistants – Darcy Simon and Eloise Roberts. We could not have managed without you. Dr Matthew Parkin this year steps
down as Head of Biology after 22 years of dedicated service. His contribution to the Department and to the learning of countless pupils and students over the years cannot be overstated. I am very happy to say that Dr Parkin will remain with us, in a part-time capacity, as a Biology teacher, nonetheless. Mr Richard Ball also steps down as Head of Department, namely our Languages Department. We are very fortunate that he too will remain as a part-time teacher and so fortunate also to have benefited from his outstanding stewardship and leadership of Languages at King’s for 23 years. I would like here to note the unstinting hard work which staff at King’s bring to their roles, in whatever form those roles are. In my near 30-year career, I have not worked with colleagues who care more and give more. Thank you all for all you do – and for the part you have played in enabling our Upper Sixth students to flourish and be all that they are. I would also like make particular mention of and offer great thanks to all colleagues in the leadership teams whose support I could not have managed without this year, along with Mrs Cook, Dr Dorsett and countless others. Thank you most sincerely. To close, I should like to express great thanks to the Editorial Team of this year’s Vigornian. Notwithstanding the significant task that this is, this year’s edition is once again a wonderful – and highly important – document of the life of the King’s Foundation. The work of the editorial team, under the expert care and direction of Mrs Emma Kate Booth, is so very appreciated. Thank you for all your efforts. Alison Oliver
Vigornian 2024/25 • 7
Pink Giraffes To sit in Worcester Cathedral as a teacher during a whole school assembly is to feel, each time, improbably fortunate. Even before the assembly begins, my eyes instinctively drift toward the imposing West Window and its beautiful stained glass, which depicts the story of Creation, searching for a favourite detail: the fabled “pink giraffe” hidden within the glass. It has become one of my quiet rituals, looking for it on each occasion, as though checking that some small mystery remains in a building otherwise so steeped in certainty and history. Once the inevitable bustle of shepherding a year group into rows has subsided, I am left with that rare privilege: to sit still in one of the United Kingdom’s great buildings and simply stop, look and listen. Few staff duties can offer such rewards. The pupils themselves are part of what makes the experience so compelling. As we pass through the cloister and into the Cathedral space, a noticeable shift takes place. Voices lower, footsteps soften, and something of the building’s gravitas seems to settle over us. It is not imposed silence, but something more instinctive: a shared recognition, however fleeting, that this is a place apart. My view is never quite the same for long. It shifts and alters as the pupils move - turning to one another with quiet curiosity, adjusting themselves along pews, or tilting their gaze upward to the vaulted ceiling. Their presence does not diminish the space; it animates it. The Cathedral feels, in those moments, not like a relic but something briefly reinhabited, each generation borrowing it before passing it on. This is, without question, a remarkable place to borrow. It was this sense of layered history that led Mrs Booth to arrange a visit to the Cathedral Library on a cold December evening, giving me the chance to search for information about one of
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the Cathedral’s smaller enigmas: the “pink giraffe”. Together, we stepped away from the familiar spaces of the nave and climbed a narrow, winding staircase tucked above the main body of the building, where the Library felt like a well-kept secret. There, among carefully preserved records, we examined documents relating to the King’s School: lists of its earliest scholars, and accounts noting the modest salaries of its first Head and Deputy - £2. We also discovered that the pink giraffe, which I had long imagined to be a deliberate flourish or quiet joke left by a mischievous craftsperson, may in fact have been nothing more than a simple pigmentation error. Even so, I still find myself searching for it each time I enter the Cathedral, proof perhaps that even accidents can acquire their own quiet significance. The visit deepened what I had already sensed during assemblies: that the Cathedral is not simply a backdrop to school life, but part of its living story, quietly holding generations within its walls. History here is never distant. King John lies buried only a short distance from where pupils now sit, while former Prime Minister Stanley Baldwin rests nearby, another life folded into the long national narrative contained within these walls. Occasionally, there is an even greater gift: the opportunity to gather for a Eucharist service in the crypt. Led by Dr Dorsett, these moments feel set apart from the rhythms above. The crypt, with its low arches and ancient stone, invites a stillness that is difficult
to replicate elsewhere. Older. Quieter. More secluded. What I value most is the contrast. Around me stands permanence: stone shaped by medieval craftsmen, monuments to kings and statesmen, glass that has caught the changing light for generations. Before me sits movement - but not mere restlessness. It is the energy of young people: attentive in moments, curious in others, and always full of possibility. To watch one from within the other is to be reminded why schools cherish tradition - not to trap the past, but to place the young in conversation with it. So yes, I do feel fortunate to sit there. Fortunate that my work occasionally places me in such surroundings; that assemblies take place beneath vaulted ceilings and soaring stone arches; and that, while pupils gather and settle, I can look up and notice some new detail in the stone, wood, or an old favourite in the stained glass. In the middle of a busy school week, there are certainly worse places to pause and to pay attention. We invite our readers to observe their surroundings and appreciate the little details. Hidden within this edition are five pink giraffes. Can you spot them? Happy hunting! Victoria Lloyd-Smith
COMMON ROOM NOTES
Vigornian 2024/25 • 9
Leaving Staff Jo Clark
Jo has been part of the King’s Foundation for 25 years, retiring at the end of the 2024/25 academic year. During her time at the school, she has made a lasting difference in the lives of so many children. Her unwavering commitment to ensuring that every pupil who passed through King’s had the opportunity to thrive has shaped the school community in immeasurable ways. Her warmth, compassion and genuine care meant that many children sought out Mrs Clark for guidance and reassurance. Her presence among staff was equally remarkable. Jo supported and inspired so many colleagues, who learnt a great deal from her example. Always cheerful, kind and ready to lend a hand, she brought positivity and generosity into every space she entered. Jo leaves the King’s St Alban’s PE and Games department in an exceptional position, an achievement built on years of dedication and hard work. The mark she has left will remain for generations to come. On behalf of all pupils and all staff, past and present, we thank you, Jo, for everything you have given to King’s. We wish you a wonderfully restful and happy retirement, filled with sunshine on the golf course and great times on the tennis courts. Charlie Hooman
Phyllis Kilpatrick
Phyllis Kilpatrick joined the cleaning team in October 2017, very shy and unsure of herself. Working closely with the team and the lovely staff of the Geography building, Phyllis quickly became a valued member of the team. Very quick witted with an infectious giggle, she has marked her place at King’s, and is enjoying her retirement since March 2025.
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Farewell and Thank You to Captain Grinnell
This year marks a significant milestone for the CCF as we see Captain Dave Grinnell retire from King’s School and step down from his role as Officer Commanding the Army Section.
Captain Grinnell has been an integral part of both the CCF and the wider school community for many years, serving first as the School Staff Instructor (SSI) and more recently as OC Army
Celia Rawnsley
Celia Rawnsley arrived at Hawford for what was intended to be a single term and stayed for two decades. She joined the school in April 2003, fresh from travelling in New Zealand, and was initially appointed for one term. However, following an outstanding start, she was quickly appointed to a full-time position. During her time at Hawford, Celia was a form teacher across all four year groups of the Prep School, served as Assistant Head for a number of years, and led several subjects, including Religious Studies and History.
Celia has been an exceptional teacher at King’s Hawford, driven by a deep commitment to ensuring the very best for every pupil in her care. Her kind, measured and patient approach made her a highly respected member of the teaching team, admired by colleagues and pupils alike. Her pastoral care was second to none; she consistently went the extra mile, offering thoughtful advice and unwavering support to help every child be the best version of themselves. A hard-working colleague with a positive, can-do attitude, Celia leaves a lasting legacy at King’s Hawford. This can be seen
Section and Second-in-Command of the Contingent. His leadership, commitment and enthusiasm have shaped countless cadets’ experiences and contributed enormously to the success and spirit of the unit. It was wonderful to see so many Old Vigornians at his leaving party. Although he is leaving King’s employment, we are delighted he will remain involved with the CCF as a volunteer, ensuring his experience, humour and trademark pre-exercise speeches will continue to inspire cadets for years to come! SE
in initiatives such as the Activity Badges and her 50 Things to Do at Hawford, both of which encouraged children to engage fully with all aspects of school life. As is often the case, it was Celia’s contribution beyond the classroom that truly set her apart. Incredibly creative, she turned her hand to a wide range of crafts, including sewing, knitting and bookbinding. A highly skilled seamstress, she became renowned for last-minute costume rescues for school productions — and even emergency repairs to staff clothing. Celia is also a talented baker; her cakes, and especially her brownies, are legendary. Staff always looked forward to her birthday, knowing the staffroom would be filled with delicious home bakes. Over the years, she also ran hugely popular cookery clubs and skills sessions, which were always oversubscribed. Celia has been the life and soul of the staff body throughout her time at King’s Hawford, and generations of pupils have been fortunate to have her as their teacher. We thank Celia wholeheartedly for everything she has contributed to the school and send her to Hong Kong with our very best wishes, thanks and affection.
Sarah Pugh
From the very beginning of King’s St Alban’s Nursery, Sarah Pugh poured her heart into shaping a nursery that that was nurturing, fun, stimulating, warm and inclusive to all. Sarah’s dedication, knowledge, and unwavering love of early years turned King’s St Alban‘s Nursery into a place filled with love, laughter and possibility. Although we were sad to see her go, we thank her for the foundations she laid and the love she shared. Sarah will always be a part of this nursery’s story, and we wish her every success and happiness in her new opportunity. Allison Lewis
Antonio Zarro
Antonio leaves King’s School Worcester, having been here for two years teaching both Lower Sixth and Upper Sixth Economics, as well as Lower Sixth Business classes. During his time here, he has shown a strong command of the subject of Economics and has delivered lessons that have supported student learning. His ability to link that which is taught in the classroom to real-world current affairs has been particularly enjoyable for all his groups. His lessons have been well-structured and engaging, making economic concepts more accessible to all pupils. Many students have developed a greater interest in the subject under his guidance, and his ability to create an enjoyable learning environment has been very much appreciated by them. His approachable nature has also meant that pupils felt comfortable seeking guidance and clarification when needed. We wish him success in his next endeavours and thank him for his contribution to the Department. EF
Mark Warren
Mark Warren arrived in the English Department when we found ourselves shortstaffed in the spring of 2016. He seemed a quiet, unassuming character at first, a competent teacher who diligently cracked on in E5 and occasionally asked where the exercise books or board pens were kept. Nine short years later, Mr Warren is something of a legend in the English Department. His temporary role was made permanent in 2017, much to the relief of the Department and his pupils. Indeed, Mark’s pupils adored his lessons, and they consistently excelled under his instruction. It became clear very quickly that Mark had both an impressive knowledge and a deep love of literature. He demonstrated unflinching confidence in all his pupils and gained a reputation as a teacher who would extract the best from even the most reluctant students of English. It is fair to say that Mark’s lessons were sometimes a source of mild irritation to the rest of us; his pupils often seemed to be having a
quite unreasonable amount of fun, laughing uproariously at random moments, maybe even making our lessons feel dull by comparison. We forgave him this, though, and we all enjoyed his studied air of cantankerousness around school. Many Old Vigornians cite Mr Warren as their all-time favourite teacher and can still recite chunks of A Midsummer Night’s Dream learnt in his classroom for a lively reimagining of Pyramus and Thisbe. Many felt that the highlight of an otherwise routine day could be discovering that Mr Warren was to be their cover teacher for a lesson elsewhere in the school, such was his reputation. Mark had absolute integrity in his role as Teacher of English; he was always transparent about his love for teaching literature and his aversion to bumbledom. In a world of increasing regulation and uniformity, he was a maverick in the best sense of the word. He was also so much more than an English teacher, taking a leading role in the development of the KSW Chess Club as well as successfully coaching the U14B cricket team. He was well loved across the school. We will miss Mark hugely in the English Department and wish him all the best for his retirement. LAW
We bid farewell to our GAP Students, who have contributed so much during their year within the Foundation. Thank you to Francesca Sly and Will Rowley for their work in St Alban’s and to Hannah Odam and Elliot Brown for their contributions to Hawford. We are also very grateful to Tom George for his work at Hawford. Oliver Berlet and Abi Johns made positive impacts in the Lower Years and Drama departments, respectively. We wish them all the best of luck with their next adventures! We also say goodbye to the following members of staff, and we are grateful for all their contributions to the Foundation. • • • • • • • • • • •
Libby Rimell, Holiday club assistant Allan Baird, Maths Teacher Alexander Fisentzides, ICT Network Technician Mark Evans, Minibus driver Alicia Yardley, Cleaner Lewis Humphries, Cleaner Gemma Day, Cleaner Gemma Godridge, Cleaner Charles Illsley, Graduate Sports Assistant Stephen Bridgewater, Cleaner Rachel Byng, Nursery practitioner
• • • • • • • • •
Holly Neal, Cricket Coach David Dignam, Minibus Driver Emma Wickham, Basketball coach Tanya O’Neill, prep school marketing and events Co-ordinator Darcy Simon, Graduate Rowing Assistant Rebecca Gilmour, Early years practitioner Karl Stapleton, Assistant Examinations officer Jo Hyde, Administration and Research Co-ordinator Katie Poole, Kindergarten Manager
Vigornian 2024/25 • 11
New Staff Paul Adams
Teacher of Business and Economics Paul has been teaching A-level Business and Economics for 25 years. Before this he had a varied career as an HGV driver and Transport Manager, working in the UK and overseas for the International Red Cross in Romania, Armenia and Zimbabwe. Following these exciting adventures, Paul returned to academic study and completed a Master’s in Business Administration at Imperial College, London. Paul also completed his PGCE and then switched from roles in industry to teaching. Recently, Paul has taught A-level Business at a Sixth Form Academy in Bradford and, for 18 years before that, he taught at Giggleswick School, so he is familiar working in an independent school. Paul has been married to Samantha for 32 years and they have three children, all in their 20s. Paul says “I love teaching, and I get great satisfaction from helping young people to better understand the complex world we live in, so they can hopefully go on to make wiser decisions and live happy and fulfilling lives.”
Jameel Khan
Graduate Sports Assistant & KSA Hockey Coach Jameel joins King’s School as a hockey specialist, providing highlevel coaching to pupils in our Senior School and both King’s St Albans and King’s Hawford. He recently graduated from Bath University in Sports Coaching and Management. While at Bath, he played both hockey and cricket throughout his time there. He is excited to join the King’s community and looks forward to sharing his skills and knowledge.
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Chris Jenkinson
Ian Roberts
Chris Jenkinson joined King’s School Worcester as Head of Swimming in September 2024. Chris graduated from The University of Worcester with an honorary teaching degree, and is also a qualified Primary P.E. Specialist Teacher, with over twenty years of experience in teaching and coaching P.E. and school sport across Worcestershire.
Originally from Birmingham, Ian worked for West Midlands Police in a variety of roles, predominantly within Forensic Services as a CSI, dealing with many high-profile cases. In 2023, he ventured on a career change and became the Estates Manager at Malvern St James School. Following a successful 15 months and having worked on many large-scale projects, Ian joined King’s School Worcester as Estates Manager, enjoying the challenge of working within a co-educational school with much larger pupil numbers.
Head of Swimming
Chris joined King’s in September 2023 as the Sports Coach at King’s St. Alban’s, before being appointed as the new Head of Senior School Swimming in 2024. Having been born and educated in Worcester, Chris has a great knowledge and understanding of swimming around the Midlands, and beyond. Chris is a qualified swimming teacher and coach and has a vast amount of experience in teaching and coaching a wide range of sports, particularly swimming. Chris currently coaches swimming with Worcester Swimming Club and is a very keen athlete. He has a long background in swimming, having competed at County, Midland, National and International level. Chris is really looking forward to helping nurture the students’ own passion and love for swimming at King’s, and is excited about being able to further develop the School’s aquatics provision through a variety of different opportunities.
Estates Manager
Ian lives in Bromsgrove with his wife and two teenage children. In his spare time, he is a keen distance runner, having completed 29 marathons to date, and he is currently preparing for race number 30 in Venice. He also very much enjoys travelling the world with his family.
Abby Tindell Head of Science
Abby studied Biological Sciences at Leeds University where she achieved a First-class d e g r e e . Following a year at Bristol University to complete her PGCE, she taught in Bristol for six years before moving back to Worcestershire to teach at Droitwich Spa High School. Abby has been Head of Teaching and Learning, Head of Biology and Head of Science and has been working in education for over 18 years. Abby is looking forward to working with the staff and students at King’s School Worcester and becoming part of the King’s community.
Alexander Young
Head of Languages | Head of German Alexander grew up bilingually in Hong Kong where he attended the German Swiss International School before moving to the UK. In 2010, he graduated from the University of Bath with a First-Class Joint Honours degree in Russian and Politics and subsequently entered the MercedesBenz Graduate Scheme. Principally based in the UK with assignments in Germany and Russia, he worked in the
Financial Services, Retail and Insurance divisions before working as Executive Assistant to the CEO of Mercedes-Benz UK. In 2014, Alexander completed his Postgraduate Diploma in Education at the University of Birmingham, before joining Wellington College as Teacher of Languages. During his time at Wellington, he introduced Russian as a timetabled subject, became a GCSE and A-level Examiner and completed his Master’s in Teaching Studies.
In 2019, Alexander relocated to Worcestershire with his family, moving to Malvern College as Head of German. In 2020 and 2023, he also took on the roles of Head of Modern Languages and Assistant Head of Sixth Form, respectively. Alexander is a keen drummer, guitarist and bassist and likes many different genres of music. In his free time, he also enjoys reading German literature and books on geopolitics, as well as walking with his wife and three sons on the Malvern Hills.
King’s Worcester Appoints New Head of Foundation from September 2025
T he Governors of The King’s School Worcester are pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Ben Charles, the current Principal of King’s Rochester, as the new Head of Foundation. He will join King’s Worcester on 1st September 2025. King’s Rochester is a co-educational cathedral school for pupils aged 3-18 which, like King’s Worcester, was refounded by Henry VIII in 1541. Ben Charles has been Principal and Head of the Senior School there since 2019. Prior to that, he was Second Master (Senior Deputy Head) at Portsmouth Grammar School, with oversight of day-to-day operational matters, pastoral care and safeguarding.
After completing his degree in Music at the University of Exeter and his PGCE at the University of Durham, Ben began his teaching career as Assistant Director of Music at another 1541 King’s School, this time in Peterborough. He coached the 1st XV rugby team, having played for County Durham U16s and U18s, and was a Day Housemaster and Lay Clerk in the Cathedral. He went on to become Director of Music at two other HMC schools – Chigwell School in Essex and later Millfield School in Somerset.
As well as being Principal at King’s Rochester, Ben is a committee member of the Choir Schools’ Association and a prep school governor. He is an experienced choral conductor and singer, and is also a huge sports fan, particularly offering support to teams from his native city of Leicester. Ben and his wife Helen, and their young children, are looking forward to moving to Worcester and joining the King’s community next year.
Pat Preston, Chair of Governors, commented “The Governors are delighted to welcome Ben to The King’s Worcester Foundation. Having led King’s Rochester for five years, Ben brings the experience needed to lead our schools through what will be a challenging period for the sector. Throughout the interview process Ben showed a thorough understanding of the tradition, ethos and values of King’s Worcester and, in common with the Governors, he is excited for our future. We know that the three schools within the Foundation (King’s Senior and Sixth Form, King’s St Alban’s and
King’s Hawford) provide an excellent education for all our pupils and an outstanding preparation for life – which is exactly what parents are looking for.” When informed of his appointment, Ben said “I am delighted and extremely honoured to have been appointed as Head of Foundation at The King’s School, Worcester. The Foundation schools are well known for their emphasis on academic excellence, the provision of co-curricular opportunities across the full age range, and the commitment to strong and supportive pastoral care, all underpinned by a Christian ethos in two remarkable settings. I am excited to lead the Foundation through the next phase of its development, notwithstanding the challenges that the independent sector faces. My family and I very much look forward to joining the warm and vibrant King’s community next year and to getting to know the pupils, parents, staff and alumni.”
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Weddings Charles Webster
Pip Sanders On 23rd August 2025, Pip Sanders married Oliver Dunkley. The wedding took place in Hanbury Church and was followed by the reception on their family farm.
Charles Webster, Teacher of History at King’s Worcester celebrated his marriage in Worcestershire, at Curradine Barns. Although he and his wife Emma now live in Birmingham, his wife grew up in Worcestershire and Charlie counts himself a local since starting to work at King’s! Charlie said, “We had a magical day and were blessed with perfect weather. We were surrounded by loved ones
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including family, friends and colleagues from King’s who have become dear friends of mine. I was given a lovely card and gift from my form who have shared in my excitement during the build to the wedding! After the wedding, the newly married Websters then spent a few days in beautiful Venice and plan to travel around Costa Rica at Easter.
ACADEMIC King’s Day Prizes 2025
Reeves prize for Further Mathematics James Capell Cobb Shield for extra- Mathematics Martha Evans curricular Drama Eric Dykes Physics Sam Caskie Cup for contribution to extra- Cavenagh prize for Biology Mischa Lotter curricular Music Martha Evans Chemistry William Tucker Neil Bowler Cup for sport Will Mason Physical Education Lottie Kilby Nicky Wilson Cup for sport Ruby Collins Design and Technology Eddie Hira OV Service Awards Sonny Brown Michael Blake Drama Ellie Cartwright and Theatre Studies prize Hannah Bowen Tilly Cook Gold Arts Award Joseph Murray Josh Lavarack Geography Eva Frost Amy Smithson Art Molly Graham Senior Scholar Prizes Emily Andrews Business Ellie Harle James Capell Michael Harvey-Good Awards Amelia Venables Winslow prize for History Izzy Kavanagh Eric Dykes Computer Science Connor Yates Psychology Kiri Costello Ashley Shameli prize for Politics Emily Andrews Religion and Philosophy Millie Dobson EPQ Edmund Roberts Classics Sam Taylor-Edwards German Eric Dykes Spanish Joe Stone Maurice Day prize for Latin Lola Bell Ruiz The Mason Prize for Economics Oliver Powell English Polly Hickling TEFL William Kenrick Digital Skills Matthew Franks Sports Leader Jude Austin
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Art
e began the academic year on a high, celebrating the outstanding achievements of our GCSE and A-level artists. Their examination results were a testament to their hard work, creativity and the dedication of the department.
expertise and passion through a series of workshops. His visit culminated in a weekend drawing masterclass and an inspiring exhibition of his own breathtaking drawings and paintings, which captivated pupils across all year groups.
One of the early highlights of the year was the return of our Artist in Residence, Ian Murphy. Spending a week with us, Ian focused primarily on drawing with our Lower Sixth students, sharing his
During the October half term, our Fifth Form artists embarked on the muchanticipated annual trip to St Ives. Immersed in the rich artistic heritage of Cornwall, pupils
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explored local galleries, participated in a full-day workshop with practising artists, and painted en plein air along the dramatic coastline of Cape Cornwall. The trip offered a unique opportunity to connect with the Cornish art scene and deepen their understanding of landscape and abstraction. Beyond the classroom, the department continued to offer a vibrant programme of extracurricular opportunities.
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A weekly Lower Years Art Club encouraged younger pupils to explore new materials and techniques, while Sixth Form students enjoyed a specialist ceramics club led by a visiting artist. Our popular Parents’ Printmaking Club continued to thrive in the evenings, and Sixth Formers also had the chance to develop their observational skills through life drawing classes. We were also delighted to welcome pupils from our two junior schools, as well as local partner schools, to take part in printmaking workshops — a wonderful way to share our facilities and foster creativity across the wider community. The Sir Terry Frost Gallery remained a dynamic hub of artistic activity.
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In addition to hosting Ian Murphy’s exhibition, we welcomed two exciting guest artists: Tereza Horacek and Old Vigornian Oscar Boyle, both graduates of the Slade School of Fine Art. Their joint exhibition of painting and drawing attracted a lively private view and provided a rich source of inspiration for our pupils. Throughout the year, the gallery also showcased student work, including the Lower Years exhibition My World, which featured contributions from every Lower and Upper Fourth pupil. The show included printmaking, drawing, painting, and ceramics, and was warmly received by parents and visitors alike. In the Spring Term, our Lower Sixth
artists travelled to London for an overnight cultural visit. The packed itinerary included visits to the British Museum, Tate Modern, Tate Britain, the National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery. A particular highlight was the late-night viewing at the National Portrait Gallery, which left a lasting impression on the students. As ever, the year concluded with our annual GCSE and A-level exhibitions, held in the studios and gallery. These events are a true celebration of our pupils’ achievements, drawing proud families, friends, and staff to admire the exceptional standard of work on display. This year’s Sixth Form prize winners were Evie Thrush, Zach
The trip offered a unique opportunity to connect with the Cornish art scene and deepen their understanding of landscape and abstraction.
CH
Mason, Alfie Wilkinson and Polly Hickling for their outstanding A-level portfolios. Ellie Harle was awarded the prestigious George Terry Prize for her stunning painting, and Molly Graham received the Academic Prize during King’s Day in the Cathedral — a fitting recognition of her dedication and talent. It has been a busy, exciting and rewarding year in the Art Department. We continue to be inspired by the creativity and commitment of our pupils. As our Sixth Form artists move on to study Architecture, Fashion, Fine Art, and Art History at university, we wish them every success and look forward to seeing where their artistic journeys will take them next.
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Biology
Business & Economics
he Biology Department at King’s reported another successful year in the classroom. The International GCSE and A-level results were excellent and testament to the hard work of pupils and staff alike. The subject continues to be very popular at A-level and many of this year’s leavers went on to study university courses linked to medicine, ecology, neuroscience and biology in general. We are proud that many of our OVs have gone on to careers associated with all areas of biology and every year we hear of the successful completion of new PhDs in the field.
Upper Sixth Business Students Visit Churchfields Farm
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In September, we welcomed in a new generation of enthusiastic Lower Fourth biologists who had the opportunity to study many topics through practical exploration. The extensive practical work in all years helps to bring the subject to life for the pupils, be it dissecting their way through the respiratory systems of a mammal in Upper Remove to carrying out sophisticated staining of bacterial species in the Lower Sixth. At the end of the year Dr Parkin stepped down as Head of Department after 22 years at the helm. However, he will still be teaching part time at King’s School from September. He passes the department on to the very capable hands of Mrs Tindell who is taking over as Head of Biology, additionally, overall Head of Science. MDP
In February, our Upper Sixth Business students had the opportunity to visit Churchfields Farm, owned by Gillian Kerton and her husband Will Kerton (OV). The visit included a comprehensive tour of the various areas of the business, such as the Droitwich Salt production and the ice cream production area. We also toured the café, the new play area and the cow shed.
Following the visit, students were assigned the following essay:
Following this, students were treated to a talk from Gillian, learning about the origins of the business and its diversification into different areas. This provided them with valuable insights into how a real-life business operates and adapts to changing circumstances. The students also had the chance to ask questions and engage in discussions about the business‘s strategies and challenges.
This task allowed students to apply the theories of corporate growth that they had been learning in their lessons to a real-world scenario.
King’s School Worcester Dragons’ Den 2025 At the end of the Summer Term of 2025, 42 Lower Sixth Business students were put through their paces in the Science Lecture Theatre in a Dragons’ Den event. Our students had to present their business plans to an impressive group of four “dragons,” including two entrepreneurial OVs, Sophy Howard, a founder of Watersedge, a wild water swimming venue, and Mo Patel who set up his Mobu supplements brand in 2019. Sophy and Mo were joined on the panel by John Roberts from NFU Mutual and Martin Sharples, a founding director of Amazon.co.uk. Our students equipped themselves in justifying their proposals under
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fierce scrutiny. As one of their teachers, I was proud of the way they all stepped up and didn’t crumble under tough questioning. The general standard of ideas put forward was impressive, as was their all-round professionalism. In a close-run contest, the winning team, chosen entirely by the Dragons, was the Bike Base team of Alfie Blueman, Fred Marshall, Ollie Rearden (MD), Max Thurgood and George Waller. Mo Patel enjoyed the experience of returning to the School as a Dragon having been on the other end of one of the early Dragons’ Den events 13 years previously! He praised the students’ “creativity, courage and willingness to step outside their comfort zone.” Mo
“Churchfields aims to increase profitability. They could either do this by refocusing on farming and ice cream production or by diversifying into other areas. Evaluate these two options and recommend which one is more likely to improve Churchfield’s profitability.“
Overall, the visit to Churchfields Farm was an enriching experience that provided our students with practical knowledge and a deeper understanding of business operations and growth strategies. EF
added, “It’s moments like these that shape confident, creative thinkers and I was honoured to be a part of it.” Sophy Howard from Watersedge at Bishampton concurred with Mo, stating “The enterprise shown by the Business students in devising their ideas and then coming up and presenting their business plans is inspiring to see.” Finally, I’d like to thank our four fabulous Dragons for giving up their time and commercial expertise for the students’ benefit and our students for rising to the challenge! GLW
King’s Careers Celebrating Growth, Achievement and Opportunity Expanding Horizons: Careers at King’s
This academic year has been a remarkable one for Careers at King’s, marked by vibrant growth, innovative programmes and numerous opportunities for our pupils across all year groups. With the expansion of Careers House Time into the Lower Years, our commitment to equipping students for the rapidly changing world of work has never been stronger.
Sixth Form Life Skills: Future Preparation
Careers education was integral to the Sixth Form Life Skills programme, featuring talks on Apprenticeships, University Life and Gap Years. We were delighted to welcome Kerry Davies from Worcestershire Apprenticeships and OV Jude Fernihough, who shared insights from his apprenticeship at Rolls Royce.
Lower and Middle Years: Building Foundations
Pupils in the Lower Years began their journey by exploring fundamental topics such as identity, personal skills and how these relate to future careers. With a focus on the ever-changing landscape of technology and climate-related industries, these themes were woven throughout the Middle Years and Sixth Form, allowing for deeper investigation and discussion, as students progressed. Every pupil in the Lower and Middle Years participated in a dedicated half-term of careers-related learning through PSHE, providing valuable time to immerse themselves in these critical topics.
Step into the NHS: A Creative Endeavour
During the Spring Term, Lower Years pupils were invited to participate in the ‘Step into the NHS’ competition. Entrants selected an NHS career of interest and created imaginative job adverts. The Lower Fourth winner, Fliss Timmis, produced a remarkable 3D advert for a neurology surgeon, complete with models crafted from vibrant air-dried clay and a hand-painted recycled box backdrop. Fliss’s dedication and research truly shone, reflecting her keen interest in a medical career. The Upper Fourth prize was awarded to Robyn Green, who researched the vital role of a chef within the NHS, broadening everyone’s perspective on the range of careers available in healthcare.
Gap Year experiences were brought to life by OVs Harry Flockhart, Zach English, Charlie Kenny and Olivia Howard, whose stories and photographs inspired many future travellers. The Life Skills programme also included a comprehensive University Life and Student Finance talk delivered by University of Exeter representatives, and an optional half term block focused on employability skills. There was also a new Personal Finance option covering essentials such as savings, budgeting, debt, payslips, tax and pensions.
Higher Education Day: Inspiring Aspirations
Our annual Higher Education Day in the Summer Term saw many students visiting prestigious university Open Days, including Nottingham, Cardiff and Birmingham. Oxbridge hopefuls participated in masterclasses in School, receiving guidance from OV Becky Ye of Keble College, Oxford, whilst aspiring medics worked alongside Hazel Ball, OV, currently in her third year of a medicine degree at Plymouth University. This day gave our students plenty of insight into the application process, and what a day in the life of a medical student is really like.
Spotlight on Student Achievement
Upper Remove pupils took centre stage in the annual Futures Project, where they explored career options and developed creative presentations based on their research. This year’s overall winning presentation was crafted by Rob Lee (School), who produced an insightful video about careers in Anime, and Alice Davies (Chappel), who delivered a compelling presentation and interview about careers in the Marines. Both demonstrated exceptional dedication and effort in bringing their projects to life.
Aspiring medics also attended an immersive and inspiring day of hands-on activities and educational sessions at the prestigious Three Counties Medical School in June. The event was designed and delivered by current medical students, offering a unique insight into life as a medical student and the practical skills involved in the profession. The day began with a series of interactive workshops, starting in the Anatomy Lab, where students had the opportunity to work with the Anatomage Table—a state-of-the-art, lifesized, 3D digital dissection tool. This cutting-edge technology allowed students to explore human anatomy in remarkable
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detail, enhancing their understanding of bodily systems and structures. Following this, students participated in an ECG tutorial using a medical mannequin. They also explored anatomical models of the heart and lungs, deepening their knowledge of cardiovascular and respiratory physiology. In the afternoon, the group moved to the Clinical Skills Room, where they were introduced to essential emergency procedures. Under the guidance of medical students, they practised CPR on digital mannequins and learned how to respond to choking incidents, using choking vests. The simulated hospital ward also featured life-cast patient models, allowing students to observe and measure vital signs such as pulse, blood pressure, and respiratory rate, all key components of patient observation and care. The day concluded with a lively discussion and Q&A session, where students had the chance to ask questions about medical school life, the application process and career pathways in medicine. The openness and enthusiasm of the medical students made this a particularly valuable and inspiring part of the day. The experience was thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended. It provided a rare and valuable glimpse into the world of medicine, combining theoretical knowledge with practical application. Our students left the event feeling motivated, informed and more determined than ever to pursue their ambitions in the medical field.
The Careers Extravaganza
March saw our third annual Careers Extravaganza, with record numbers of enthusiastic pupils and their families attending over two vibrant afternoons. The first afternoon spotlighted STEM careers, featuring a keynote from OV James Smalley, Mechanical Engineer at Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains. James’s engaging talk on A-level choices, university pathways and the thrill of Formula One inspired all in attendance. College Hall buzzed with 30 exhibitors covering sectors like medical, sustainable energy, engineering, science, armed forces, police and apprenticeships. The following afternoon shifted focus to Business and Creative Industries, with exhibitors representing finance, marketing, event management, law, property, creative business and cyber security. OV Cameron Walker, Royal Correspondent for GB News, delivered a captivating keynote, sharing his journey in the media world. Feedback from parents and exhibitors was glowing, with one noting, “The questions and interest we had this year were superb – a great reflection on how the School is preparing your pupils for the world ahead.”
It’s really great to speak to people about different jobs. I found out some interesting information on careers in engineering and law and it’s really sparked my interest to want to learn more. A pupil
I loved speaking to the interior design lady as that is the job I have always dreamt of having. Bethan, Lower Fourth The Careers Extravaganza offered exceptional access to knowledge and inspiration, with thanks extended to all exhibitors, keynote speakers, and especially to our engaged pupils.
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Chemistry A Year of Chemical Excellence: Celebrating Our Sixth Form Chemists Lunch Talks and International Insights
In addition to the Careers Extravaganza, students benefitted from a series of lunchtime talks by industry professionals, including: Brad Young (CapGemini), Drew Benvie (Battenhall), David Oakes (Army Officer Recruitment), the Project Trust Gap Year organisation, and our own Tom Pearson, who shared insights from his sabbatical. The Summer Term also featured the Uni Guys International University Roadshow, where representatives from nine overseas universities shared details about international study options, enlightening students and parents alike.
Work Experience: Real-World Preparation
We are deeply grateful to our supportive parents and Old Vigornians for facilitating invaluable work experience opportunities for our students. This year, students gained hands-on experience at organisations such as: Eva Capital Management, Metrasens Ltd, Evesham Golf Club, Saltway Silver, Worcester University, BioDiagnostics Ltd, Holy Trinity School, Worcester Royal Hospital, Worcester Archive & Archaeology Service, Birmingham University, BetaTec Hop Product, Siemens, and Upton Dental Surgery. Such exposure is vital in helping young people shape their career pathways.
A Heartfelt Thank You
Our heartfelt thanks go to every parent, OV, friend, and employer who has contributed their time, expertise, or a work placement to the King’s community this year. Together, we are opening doors, fostering ambition, and preparing the next generation for success in an ever-evolving world. Here’s to another year of inspiration, achievement and opportunity at King’s! CG
This academic year has been a truly exciting one for the Chemistry Department, marked by outstanding enrichment activities and remarkable student achievements. Our Lower Sixth students have embraced every challenge with enthusiasm and determination, showcasing the depth of talent we are fortunate to have at our School. The year began with 11 of our keenest chemists taking part in the prestigious Royal Society of Chemistry Olympiad. After a series of rigorous preparation sessions, the students sat an exceptionally demanding paper designed to stretch even the most able. We are proud to announce that Bentley Lawrence, Sophie Johnson, Sophie Ruane and Carys Macleod each earned a Bronze Award, while Dan Arridge distinguished himself with a Silver Award—a testament to his hard work and analytical skill. Later in the year, several students participated in the Lower Sixth Cambridge Chemistry Challenge, a national competition that, while slightly less demanding than the Olympiad, still required considerable chemical insight and problem-solving ability. Once again, our pupils rose to the occasion: Dan Arridge and Emelia Simpkin achieved Silver Awards, and Sophie Johnson went one step further, earning the prestigious Gold Award—a truly exceptional accomplishment. These results reflect not only the students’ dedication and talent but also the supportive and inspiring environment fostered within the Chemistry Department. It has been a joy to see our pupils thrive, and their success in these national competitions highlights the rich vein of scientific ability running through our School. We look forward to building on these achievements next year and continuing to nurture the next generation of chemists. LHI
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Classics Natalie Haynes
On Friday 7th of March, the Classics department once again enabled an incredible opportunity for students through inviting us to attend a talk given by one of the most prominent Classicists of our time, Natalie Haynes. Natalie Haynes is well known for both her books, such as Divine Might her latest published text, alongside her podcasts on BBC Radio 4 Natalie Haynes Stands Up for the Classics. The evening was extremely entertaining and there was laughter throughout, alongside some extremely interesting classical stories which she shared with us and then also offered her opinion on. She also invited us to make our own judgements on them as well! The evening concluded with the opportunity to purchase a copy of her book and have it signed by Natalie. The event was immensely enjoyable and allowed students to, once again, have insight into Classics in the real world. This is something which showcases the value of the subject and perhaps helps to explain its current rise in popularity. Amy Smithson
Worcestershire Conquest Hoard
In February 2025, the Upper Remove Latinists and Lower Sixth Classicists ventured to Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum to visit the Worcestershire Conquest Hoard. The hoard of Roman coins was found in Bransford and Leigh, not far from Malvern, and contains 1368 gold (aureus) and silver (denarius) coins. The coins range from the Roman Republic to the reign of Nero, the last of the Julio-Claudian emperors. It was a unique opportunity for our students to come faceto-face with Roman history and gain an appreciation for the power of portable propaganda; in a society where education was reserved for the privileged few, the value of images, presented to the masses, was hugely important. Indeed, for small villages in the outer reaches of the Roman Empire to have such coins demonstrates their significance. Reflecting on their experience, the pupils said they loved being able to witness “history in real life.” EKB
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Computing
ast year I was writing the entry for the Vigornian having just wished our first cohort of GCSE pupils well in their final exams. This year, our second set of pupils have achieved fantastic top results with 47% of the pupils achieving the top grade 9 award. To put this into context, the school averaged 24% of all GCSE grades at grade 9 and, nationally, it sits at 5% of all grades. This was an amazing achievement for our Computer Science pupils. Congratulations should go to Alex Foster, who wanted to take his exam a year early at the end of Upper Remove. This was a very unusual request, particularly as Alex did not choose to study it in school; he gained a grade 9 in his own study time at home. Very well done, Alex! Once again, in November, we had our annual Bebras Challenge with all pupils in Lower Fourth, Upper Fourth and all pupils who chose to study Computing/Computer Science from Lower Sixth to Upper Sixth. The competition aims to improve the computational thinking of pupils by solving puzzles that need pattern recognition, ‘shortest routes‘ finding or ciphers decrypting. Some pupils did exceptionally well with an amazing 46 pupils from across the years finishing in the top 10% nationally and gaining an invite to the next (and much harder) round. This year, we had five pupils who gained full marks in their various age groups – Charlotte Capel, Benjamin Lee and Rory Taylor in Lower Fourth, Aiden Atkinson in Lower Remove and Joshua Lee in Upper Remove. Once again, congratulations go to Samantha Capell in Lower Sixth, who beat her score from last year with 175/220 in the Elite (U18) category, a fantastic achievement. The Spring Term saw us teaching topics such as Representations in Binary, Physical Computing and Programming Essentials in Scratch to the Lower Years and the Upper Sixth pupils completing some very impressive NEA programming projects. No trips have been scheduled this academic year, but the Lower Sixth Computer Scientists had a tour of the School site from Dan Cox our IT Network Analyst, who showed them places that pupils do not ordinarily go, such as our Server Room in Hostel House. He explained the physical structure of the network and how it is split into Virtual LANs for security and even how opening a window in Biology can completely cut off internet access in College Hall! The Summer Term is always dominated by exams, and we wished farewell to our Upper Sixth students by playing a mass game of Potato Pirates! Congratulations to all students who gained a place at university but, in particular, to Connor Yates who goes off to Durham to study Computer Science. Some of our equipment has been upgraded over the summer, as we will be offering Esports from the Autumn as a cocurricular club. We shall start small and offer only one game, called Rocket League, but the aim is to compete against local schools and, eventually, nationally in the British Esports Championships. The future in Computing is exciting. DNB
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Design Technology Being a designer gives an unfair advantage.
Samuel C
Finlay I
Edward H
s we spend our days racing from place to place, moving from task to task, we are continually gathering information. Much of this information is unnecessary, and some of it is even placed deliberately in our path, with the intention of distracting us and diverting our attention. The best designers will filter the information and store it securely. But why? What is it about filtering information that is so valuable?
a second thought. But months or years later, using our experience of the bin’s hinging mechanism to solve an entirely unrelated design problem. Our design library, or the visual memory of objects and experiences we have, becomes a valuable resource in our problem-solving toolkit.
Moreover, the ability to filter and prioritise information is crucial. Not all observations will be relevant or useful, and much of the skill lies in discerning which ones have the potential to feed innovation. This selective attention allows designers to focus on the most impactful elements and integrate them into their creative process.
Designers are constantly observing and cataloguing the world around them. Every interaction, every object, every experience is a potential source of information and inspiration. This is why it is essential to be mindful of our surroundings and to appreciate the details in everyday life. The more we expose ourselves to diverse experiences and environments, the richer our design library becomes.
So, how do we (DT staff) develop this skill in our students? We look for ways to model this behaviour ourselves and to encourage this habit in our students. We encourage them not to reinvent the wheel, but to make the most of the resources we have around us, to problem-solve; to understand that being a good designer is about being a keen observer and an effective filter of information. To recognise the
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Well, we absorb what we see and experience, often without even realising it. This process of subconscious observation and retention is what builds our ‘design library‘. For instance, we might be taking rubbish out to the bin at night, without giving it
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potential in the mundane and to transform it into something extraordinary. So, the next time you find yourself engaged in a seemingly trivial task, remember that you might be adding a valuable piece to your design library. The design library is not just theoretical; over the years, we have seen our students absorb and apply these principles in their own projects, leading to some truly innovative and impressive outcomes. This year, our Lower and Middle Years pupils have been developing skills and understanding but, crucially, they have been adding to their individual design libraries and preparing this resource for application in the real world. At GCSE and A-level, our designers have been working closely with their own, individual clients, with the intention of designing and prototyping to solve the clients’ needs. We have seen some exceptional project work at GCSE and A-level again this year, most notably: A portable lighting device that clips onto the inflatable section of a dingy and informs other harbour traffic of its presence at night. A device to help the elderly carry on working in the garden, despite growing mobility issues.
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A device to assist rowers in carrying boats. A device to prevent mechanics from suffering repetitive strain injury from removing and replacing car wheels. A device to help comfortable access to boats stored on the top rack in the boathouse. A device to assist an amputee with removing jam jar lids and bottle tops. A device for storing bicycles in a cluttered shed or garage. A portable device to clean boots at the end of a muddy walk. And the list goes on. As our students have discovered, designing entirely from scratch is not as efficient or effective as drawing upon their established kit of parts or ‘design library’. So, why the unfair advantage? Well, our students, by the time they’re leaving King’s, will tell you how they have grown in awareness and confidence, and that being a designer is empowering. Whilst we (DT staff) will describe a group of students who leave for the wider world equipped with skills and qualities that give them an unfair advantage. CW
English
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here has been yet more change and positive development in the English Department this year. Following his appointment as Head of Middle Years, Mr Low stepped down as Head of English at Christmas, and we welcomed Mrs Dyke as our new Head of Department in January. She settled into the department with ease and has already launched a Literary Society which is gaining traction week by week, as well as implementing many promising changes across the curriculum, starting with our Lower Fourth programme. Alongside the very full teaching life of the Department, we have continued to offer a wide range of extra-curricular and cross-foundation activities. We have continued to venture to King’s St Alban’s and King’s Hawford to engage with the Year six classes, this year bringing the pupils some Christmasthemed lessons to round off the Autumn Term. In the Spring Term, we also took some Valentine’s Day-themed lessons to the prep schools, which went down well by all accounts. Following on from last year’s successful competition, we ran the in-house Short Story Competition for the second time, with the theme ‘Time’ for all year groups. Once again, we received some outstanding entries with prizes going to Elizabeth Shilvock (Sixth Form), Nikoletta Fletcher (Middle Years) and Georgina Norris (Lower Years). Also highly commended was Katie Ferguson in the Lower Years category. Many of the entrants have also been regular members of the Department’s Creative Writing Club, and their regular practice showed! Our Sixth Form students also benefitted in the Summer Term from a trip to the VUE Cinema to watch a live streaming of the National Theatre production of A Streetcar Named Desire. All agreed that this was an excellent production and a hugely helpful experience to add to their understanding of the play. Also in the Summer Term, we ran our second annual Lower Years Spelling Bee. It was, if possible, an even closer competition than last year, and this time the title went to U4D, represented by Lilly Martin (her second win in two years) and Amelia Barrows. The other finalists were Tabitha Cooper and Ted Carpenter (L4A), Suzie Hoskins and Charlotte Capel (L4E) and Agatha Ralley-Charteris and Ace Doggett (U4C). Well done to all participants! At the end of the school year, we bade an emotional farewell to Mr Warren. Mark has been a much-loved member of the Department for almost ten years. When he joined us in 2016, his captivating lessons and dry sense of humour quickly became legendary across the school; he will be sorely missed by all, and we wish him every happiness in his retirement. Overall, it has been a busy and rewarding year. We are looking forward to seeing the Department continue to grow and flourish under Mrs Dyke’s leadership. LAW
Here are some highlights from our Time-themed short stories:
From Time by Elizabeth Shilvock
In the room of mirrors, you approach the most recent addition to your collection. Its state makes it seem as though it was once two mirrors, yet there are no signs of glue, or nails, or tape, or any manner of material used to join the two halves together. Two opposite sides, merged seamlessly together into one mirror. Although there was a stark contrast between their appearances, they seem to be of identical design. A rectangular, plain oak wood frame, painted over with a moderate layer of matte, dull grey paint, and a subtly light-steel-blue-tinted mirror, about portrait-sized, reflecting your form from head to nape. One half was completely clean, as if it was fresh from the factory, and completely unused. No scuffs, no smears, not even a single fingerprint on the uncracked, reflective surface. It was new, in a cold, unfamiliar manner. It had no wear to it, and stood out with its almost minimalistic appearance. Despite it evidently being new, its seeming lack of use made it appear alien in its spotlessness. It had no flaws, not because of its quality, but instead because it had experienced nothing.
From Time by Nikoletta Fletcher
At times, I felt like a black and white drawing. My colours had faded, and someone had begun to callously erase my outline. As time progressed, people forgot. I became less and less relevant. As time moved on, fewer and fewer people noticed me. Did anyone even know that I existed? I sometimes wondered if I was invisible.
From The Crown of Lunae by Georgina Norris
The dark shadow tendrils sliced the walls casting a greyish hue that plastered the venerable bricks that shaped into a lonely tower. Her Prison. Sunlight glistened through the ancient structure pouring through the delicate windows, Ageing the slightly cracked glass. “I must have those replaced,” said an elegant girl idly resting on a baroque sofa, examining the ever-growing crack. She surveyed her luxury rooms. She gazed at the coffee table directly in front of her. Slowly, her gaze wavered to the intricate gold patterns sculpted onto the stubby curved legs. A world-renowned goldsmith had done the carving. She let out a lengthy sigh. Something as simple- as unimportantas a coffee table had cost thousands. She was spoiled but fortunately not as spoiled as her brothers. A subtle knock caused the girl to whip her head around and scowl at the person disturbing her peace and quiet. She quickly softened her features realising that scowling at the captain of the royal guard was not a great look. Even though she would never dare show it; she hated him.
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Geography
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unique aspect of studying Geography is being able to apply theory learned in the classroom to real-life examples in the field. For the Fifth Form, a highlight was a visit to Bristol in the Autumn Term as part of their GCSE studies to evaluate the regeneration of the Harbourside area. A boat trip on the River Avon helped pupils see the dramatic urban changes in the historical heart of the city. Speaking to the public carrying out questionnaires was a challenging but rewarding experience for many! Early in the A-level course, 23 Lower Sixth students embarked on a threeday residential fieldwork course in Minehead, Somerset. This provided a valuable opportunity to spend some quality time together as well as engaging in some fieldwork. Day one
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featured measurements of Minehead’s coastal defences, followed by an enjoyable game of beach cricket. On day two, students explored Porlock Bay, measuring beach profiles and analysing sediments, with data collected via the Survey123 App and presented using GIS back at the hotel. The final day in Watchet gave students a deep insight into the town’s evolving identity. Further human geography fieldwork was conducted later in the year, this time in Birmingham. Students practised fieldwork techniques suitable for their own coursework (NEA) studies working collaboratively in small groups to assess the dynamic urban landscape of Digbeth, City Centre and Brindley Place. In the Summer Term, the Upper Remove ventured to the Carding Mill
Valley in Shropshire to study river characteristics and associated flood risks as part of their GCSE river studies. Water levels were somewhat low owing to the lack of rain for several weeks, but successful recordings were still made. Pupils seemed to greatly enjoy the walk and it was wonderful to see them interact so positively with each other and their surroundings. Younger years have largely used the school site for short fieldwork tasks, as well as exploring a wide variety of geographical themes in Geography Club. Activities have included travel planning on a budget, hazard mapping, playing Race Across the World, GeoGuessr and much more. InterForm and Inter-House Geography Quizzes were also held, proving to be competitive events.
French Alps Geography Trip – July 2025 A regular highlight for King’s geographers is the summer trip to the French Alps, and this year’s adventure was no exception. Accompanied by Mr Cuthbertson, Mr Joyce, Mrs Kent and Mrs Worth, 29 students enjoyed a memorable week exploring the stunning alpine landscapes around Chamonix and Le Bettex. After a smooth coach journey to Dover and then through France, we arrived at our resort mid-morning in good spirits. Wasting no time, we took full advantage of the glorious weather with a cable car ride up Mont d’Arbois (1,833m). A delicious meal on the terrace overlooking Mont Blanc at an altitude higher than any point in the UK rounded off an excellent first day. Our second day took us into the heart of the Chamonix Valley. Another thrilling cable car ride to Le Brevent at 2,525m offered breathtaking views of Mont Blanc, providing the perfect backdrop for lessons on glaciation. After a scenic picnic lunch, we boarded the iconic Montenvers Railway to the Mer de Glace. The dramatic retreat of the glacier offered a sobering insight into the impacts
of climate change. A cable car ride and descent down many steps brought us to the glacier caves — a surreal experience walking deep inside the ice. The day concluded with a luge ride and another excellent meal back at the chalet. The following morning began with the customary round of pain au chocolat and pain aux raisins, fuelling us for another action-packed day. The highlight was undoubtedly the visit to the Aiguille du Midi (3,842m). The rapid height gain tested some members of the group who were still gaining confidence using cable cars, but the top was worth it! Temperatures were 25°C lower than in the valley and, despite some cloud cover, we were treated to spectacular glimpses into Italy and enjoyed the extensive displays explaining the alpine environment. A memorable lunch spot and lesson lower down in warmer sunshine overlooked the Bossons Glacier. This was followed by a fieldwork task in Chamonix and a refreshing swim in Lake Passy before returning for a hearty dinner and a lively game of car park cricket. Another rewarding day followed, beginning with a chairlift ride above the clouds to L’Index (2,400m), where panoramic views of Mont Blanc and the
Mer de Glace awaited. A picnic lunch next to the ice was enjoyed before an afternoon exploring Chamonix and a second visit to Lake Passy for a welcome swim to cool off. A homemade tartiflette provided the perfect alpine dinner, and Day 2 of car park cricket came down to the final ball — a thrilling end to a brilliant day! Our final day in the Alps took us aboard the iconic Tram du Mont Blanc from Saint Gervais to Mont Lachat. A scenic mountain trail gave us one last chance to stretch our legs and reflect on the week’s adventures. After a final meal in sunshine admiring the views of Mont Blanc for the last time, we said our goodbyes to our wonderful hosts, Lisa and Thierry, and began the journey home. Our thanks to Tom and Albert from Astons Coaches, who looked after us so well. Throughout the trip, pupils were a genuine credit to the School — enthusiastic, curious and excellent company. A huge amount of geography was covered in a week full of learning, fun and unforgettable alpine experiences — ones we hope will live long in their memory. SCC
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Library It is always rewarding to begin each new academic year with our BookBuzz activity - a Book Trust initiative in which all Lower Fourth pupils choose a book (to keep) from an excellent selection of titles. Each form has a session of ‘speeddating’ (with books) to enable them to make their choice. Welcoming forms into the Library in October to receive their books and spend some precious time reading, before the hubbub of the school day, was also very special. The most popular choice for our pupils this year was Lost on Gibbon Island by Jess Butterworth. We hope that the pupils enjoyed reading their books and have been encouraged to explore further titles.
World Book Day
March 6th was World Book Day, and our celebration of reading this year was highly visible; the school buildings were festooned with KSW bespoke book recommendation bunting which looked beautiful fluttering in the spring sunshine. The staff theme was “I’m glad I read this book when I was 17”; the Sixth Form theme was “I loved this book when I was 12”; the Lower and Middle Years chose “The best book I’ve read this year”. There was so much variety to marvel at. Amongst the more predictable popular choices amongst the Lower and Middle Years (from classics such as War Horse and Harry Potter, to plenty of murder and mystery from the likes of Robin Stevens, Katherine Foxfield, Holly Jackson, and Karen McManus) shone unexpected gems such as Sapiens by Yuval Harari, Heaven’s Official Blessing by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu, and the Booker longlisted Days Without End by Sebastian Barry (recommended by a Lower Remove!) Sixth Form choices included the most popular reads from five/six years ago such as The Hunger Games and Murder Most Unladylike, alongside classics such as Swallows and Amazons, Robinson Crusoe, and The Hobbit (the most popular choice). There were also more unusual choices such as Ready Player One, The Collected Stories of Arthur C Clarke and Lord of the Flies!
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The recommendations varied from succinct comments to insightful paragraphs; some lovely reading memories have also been shared. The bunting has transformed the Long Gallery. It is not only a very decorative and real talking point but an inspiriting source of recommendations for our Lower Years. At break time, volunteers from our Upper Remove Book Club (WRAITH) gave out copies of the World Book Day mini-books to the Lower Years, a muchloved tradition at King’s. Pupils also enjoyed book-related activities in the Library, including a fun emoji book title quiz (also a big success in the Houses in pastoral time).
World Book Day Competition – Design a Book Cover
We were thrilled with the wonderfully creative entries received from the Lower Years for the Library’s World Book Day competition. A range of techniques from digital design, inks, drawing, painting and collage had all been used to stunning effect. There was some excellent ‘blurb’ content too. With each entry being so distinctive, it was very difficult to choose a winner! Ana James was the overall winner (for Komi Can’t Communicate), with Sienna Young, Amelia Evans, Ava FletcherIzmajlowicz, and Naomi Lam all being Highly Commended. Well done and thank you to all who entered.
Genrefication of the Library
Summer Term found the Library team hard at work transforming the way we organise our fiction section. Since time immemorial at KSW, fiction has been shelved A-Z by author, but times change, and we wanted to make it easier for pupils to find the kinds of books that they love to read, and for us to be able to recommend books to them. We therefore committed to the process of…. Genrefication! After first separating out a new Staff and Sixth Form collection, the Senior School fiction stock has been reorganised into eleven distinct genre categories. Each book has been labelled, re-shelved, and updated in the Library catalogue, with vibrant new signage to guide readers. The result is a rejuvenated, more accessible collection that’s already receiving glowing feedback from pupils. The process sparked lively debate and thoughtful consultation - with both pupils and AI lending insights at various stages - from selecting genre names to allocating books to particular genres. It has been a riveting and rewarding experience for the Library staff and we now feel even more connected to the collection (and to our readers!)
To celebrate the launch, Lower Years forms visited the Library to take part in The Reading Game - a fun, interactive introduction to literary genres - before exploring the new shelves to choose their summer reading. Choosing our best books to showcase the genres, and then seeing pupils enthusiastically compare covers, blurbs and book beginnings, was a joyful way to wrap up the academic year. Genrefication is just one way of fulfilling our commitment to provide current, relevant and appropriate resources in an attractive and welcoming environment. Some vigorous pruning of the collections over the year has allowed more room to promote beautiful books by presenting them ‘front-facing’ amongst the shelves. Whilst we are adept at producing displays for every spare corner, the departure of our DVD collection has also liberated an expansive area of shelving. We’ve taken full advantage to create large and vibrant displays there to showcase resources relevant to particular themes (and seasons) - Mrs Capell has honed her display making skills to a fine art! Displays have included LGBT History Month, Spooky reads for Halloween, National
Empathy Day in June (showcasing the annual Read for Empathy Collection), and Anti-Bullying Week (which was a whole-school focus in November, and for which we produced a brand-new Anti-Bullying reading leaflet).
Reading Rockstars
Our Library system now awards ‘Reading Rockstar’ badges to our borrowers and provides certificates to mark their achievements. Bronze for 10 loans, Silver for 20, Gold for 30, and Diamond for 40. These pupils all achieved the diamond award (but all read more than 60 Henry read over 100 books, Suzie over 150, and Penny over 200!): Lower Fourth: Suzie Hoskins, Bridget Parkes, Robyn Green, Isabella Williams Upper Fourth: Penny Blakemore, Naomi Lam, Blythe Taylor, Iman Rashid Lower Remove: Henry Granlund; Lower Sixth: Connie Pollock These pupils are all reading superstars, but Penny’s achievement was extraordinary. It was a pleasure to satisfy her insatiable demand for more books to read.
Farewell to the Upper Sixth
It’s always with mixed feelings that we say goodbye to those Upper Sixth leavers who have spent many hours with us in the Library over the years. A real privilege to witness their growth, it is particularly gratifying to see the correlation between an enduring love of reading, and academic success, with our keenest readers achieving outstanding results in their A-levels and securing places at the top universities. They certainly prove Dr Seuss’s advice “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you‘ll go“!
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Mathematics
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he Senior Maths Challenge took place in October and a number of Sixth Form students took part. All were awarded certificates! There were eight Gold, five Silver and five Bronze certificates presented. All eight Golden students also qualified for the Senior Kangaroo round of the competition. These were: Sam Caskie, Martha Evans, James Capell, Josh Lavarack (all Upper Sixth), Pranav Mayilvahanan, Edgar Kelsey, Dan Arridge and Emelia Simpkin (all Lower Sixth). Sam scored the highest mark in the Upper Sixth and Pranav scored the highest mark in the School. Sam and Pranav took part in the British Olympiad Round of the Senior Maths Challenge. This involves taking a threeand-a-half-hour paper and solving incredibly challenging problems that require full written solutions. Sam was awarded a Distinction in this and Pranav earned a Merit – both fantastic results! Well done to all who took part with particular congratulations going to our qualifiers.
The Intermediate Maths Challenge took place in January and pupils from Lower Remove, Upper Remove and Fifth Form took part. There were six Gold certificates, as well as 31 Silver and 39 Bronze certificates awarded. Five pupils qualified for the Kangaroo round which is held in March. The Gold Award winners were Ethan Hall (Lower Remove), Eva Mein, Joshua Lee (Upper Remove), Theo Stallard (Fifth Form), Ethan Tan (Fifth Form) and George Parker (Fifth Form) who was also the “Best in School” winner. Joshua also gained a Gold certificate in the Kangaroo round which is a super
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achievement. Congratulations to all who took part and especially to our qualifiers. The Junior Maths Challenge took place in the Summer Term and a number of Lower Fourth and Upper Fourth pupils took part. There were 14 Gold certificates awarded, as well as 14 Silver and 33 Bronze certificates. Rory Freeman (Upper Fourth) scored the highest mark in the School and Holly Jones (Lower Fourth) scored the best in her year. Holly and Rory both qualified for the Kangaroo round, along with Jack Barwise, Ace Doggett, Dalemyr Chornyy, Max Dyball and George Pritchard (all Upper Fourth). Rory was awarded a Gold certificate in the Kangaroo round which is another wonderful achievement. Congratulations to those pupils and all of those who took part!
KSW Maths Society: A Year of Numbers, Nights and New Ideas
The KSW Maths Society has once again proved that mathematics is far more than just numbers on a page. Meeting weekly at lunchtime, the group has enjoyed a rich mix of discussion, event planning and real-world mathematical exploration. One of the society’s main focuses this year has been organising the muchanticipated charity Vegas Night, held at the Boathouse. The event was a resounding success, with excellent attendance and an evening full of fun. Behind the scenes, society members took on the full responsibility of planning; from booking the venue and handling ticket sales, to advertising and running the night itself. The experience offered invaluable lessons in organisation, teamwork and leadership. A special thank you and congratulations go to the core team: James Capell, Ellie Cartwright, Sam Caskie, Martha Evans, Connor Yates, and Josh Lavarack—their hard work truly made the event shine.
pupils to advanced mathematical ideas and their practical applications, offering a glimpse into how maths continues to shape the world around us. Both lectures sparked curiosity and lively discussion and, as a bonus, the group enjoyed some well-earned social time afterwards with food in Selly Oak.
Beyond event planning, the society also ventured into the world of academic enrichment. Members attended two fascinating lectures at the University of Birmingham: The Maths of Making Machines See and Mathematics of the Chessboard. These sessions introduced
With a balance of intellectual challenge, social connection and practical experience, the KSW Maths Society continues to be a thriving hub for students passionate about mathematics and its many possibilities. DJS
Modern Languages French
M idway through the Summer Term, 65 pupils in the Upper Fourth along with six members of staff embarked on the annual weekend cultural extravaganza to Paris. Upon arrival, we enjoyed dinner in a local pizzeria before heading to the hotel for an early night in preparation for an actionpacked Saturday. We began with a trip to Parc Astérix theme park, where the pupils made the most of the rides and attractions while soaking up the lively, Gaulish atmosphere inspired by the famous French comics. In the afternoon, we headed into Paris for a boat trip along the river Seine before climbing up to Montmartre for dinner in a Parisian restaurant. Many thanks to the pupils for conducting themselves so well and to the accompanying members of staff who made the trip possible. EDH
place, navigating the language and the many miscommunications, splashing down water parks or simply spending time with our exchange partners across the weekend. The remainder didn‘t go by slowly either: we climbed the dizzying heights of Cologne Cathedral, explored the museums of German sport and chocolate and found the roots of Haribo‘s history in Bonn.
German Exchange Cologne 2024
The German exchange was a week full of learning, entertainment and experience. It started with a short flight to Düsseldorf, where we met our exchange partners, followed by a drive to Cologne. There I tried some of Germany‘s famous dishes, such as the Currywurst, as well as traditional German food throughout the week. Immediately after arriving, we were thrown into the thrill of a new
The school was also an eye-opening experience - from a carnival of costumes parading down hallways, to German presentations of Ronaldo and LeBron James. A combined force of German, French and English exchanges also undertook a chaotic but amusing baking task, with varying degrees of success and lots of carrots. Overall, the exchange was a highlight of our holiday. Our partners were delightful and my German has progressed significantly because of it. I would recommend it to anyone who is looking to improve their speaking, explore Germany, meet new people and have a great time. Alex Foster
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Spanish Exchange 2025
This year’s Spanish exchange was different to previous years in a couple of ways: it was a smaller cohort and, for the first time in many years, we were delighted to host our Spanish partners in Worcester before we went to Spain, which meant that our partners knew their hosts when we arrived there and initial apprehensions were lessened. We initiated this exchange with IES Isla Verde in the little southern city of Algeciras, near Gibraltar, only four years ago and it has gone from strength to strength with great friendships being reinforced and forged over time. IES Isla Verde is an ERASMUS school; their management is very supportive of, and sees the immense value in, homestay exchanges. Over past years, our students have felt the benefits of a total immersion into Spanish culture and hospitality and, in terms of linguistic awareness, a greater sensibility to life in other countries. On their week (8th to 14th March) in Worcester, our guests enjoyed guided tours in Oxford, Stratford -upon-Avon and Worcester, as well as a tour of the Morgan Car factory in Malvern. There were also many social
events organised by our students and families. There is an element of work too in that, in advance of the trip, both schools exchanged videos with each other, so the students were not strangers to each other. While the Spanish students were here in Worcester, they experienced a typical school day, with subject lessons in English, school lunch, and some bilingual activities in the Spanish lessons. Our outbound trip took place during the Easter holidays, from 4th April to 10th April. The serious crosswinds at Gibraltar Airport meant that our arrival at Algeciras was delayed by a diversion to Malaga Airport. Our hosts, however, greeted us warmly with a reception at the school followed by much needed rest. We then had an action-packed week of trips to the city of Cadiz, the Roman ruins at Baelo Claudia, a walk around Tarifa and a day in Gibraltar. We also had a day of bilingual activities in school and, just as we were leaving, a typical breakfast of churros y chocolate. I am grateful to my colleague, Richard Ward, for accompanying me on this trip. RJS
Sixth Form - Salamanca
In October 2024, 12 Sixth Form Spanish Linguists had an unforgettable adventure to Salamanca, soaking up Spanish language and culture along the way. Staying with warm and welcoming host families, our students immersed themselves in daily life while perfecting their Spanish skills at the renowned Colegio Delibes with intensive four-hour morning lessons. Afternoons were packed with activities, from exploring Salamanca’s stunning architecture and vibrant graffiti scene to tackling Spanish news challenges and interviewing locals. Students enjoyed a lively salsa lesson with a Cuban dance instructor, a mouth-watering tapas evening and an exciting game of padel (a cross between tennis and squash). It was a week full of laughter, learning, and a true taste of Spain’s rich culture. A fantastic experience for all involved! JS
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his year, we saw 15 students take Psychology in Upper Sixth and 32 in the Lower Sixth, with the Department establishing a permanent base in the new Sixth Form building, School House. Upper Sixth students began their studies with an in-depth examination of schizophrenia in the Autumn Term. Both biological and psychological contributions help to form our understanding of the causes and treatments of schizophrenia, a disease which sadly affects around one in a 100 people in the UK at some point in their lives. Students also studied the topic of relationships, which examines the various theories relating to the formation of romantic relationships. This included a fascinating section on the psychology parasocial relationships, which is the one-sided relationships fans may have with celebrities. Students thoroughly enjoyed their final topic on forensic psychology. They looked at the role of forensic psychology in the science of crime; indeed, the course starts with looking at
Psychology how psychologists go about identifying the person who has committed a crime. Students were engaged by the idea of offender profiling which aims to either use a top-down or bottom-up approach to help investigators accurately predict and profile the characteristics of unknown offenders. The module then comes to an end with the challenging topic of how we deal with offending behaviour, such as the use of custodial sentencing to restorative justice. Students in Lower Sixth have carried out a research project at Twycross Zoo, which involved the observation of our closest living relatives in the animal kingdom, Bonobo and Common Chimps. The aim of the study was to investigate if the markedly different social structures common to these two animals affected the social activity levels shown by the animals. The zoo staff provided a very informative lecture on animal behaviour in preparation for the study and our Lower Sixth students worked in small groups to gather the data for their study. After completing a meticulous statistical analysis of the data, students wrote a scientific paper on their findings.
The visit to the zoo not only involved work, but there were also opportunities to see other animals and gain a greater understanding of the strong focus that Twycross places on conservation of animal species. Our Upper Sixth have shown great determination, enthusiasm and passion throughout the two years and the Psychology Department will miss their dynamic contributions to lessons. We wish them all the best for the future. RVK
A little poem from our L6B group: In topic 7, the mind took flight, Through theories deep and neurons bright. Psychology—my passion, my spark, Each lesson a journey, each insight a mark.
Memory’s maze, so wild, so vast, Encoding moments that forever last. Hard work stacked like building blocks, Yet every challenge unlocks new thoughts. Collaborative minds, ideas collide, Together we learn, side by side. From classroom chats to playful dough, A neuron shaped with hands aglow. Behaviours mapped, patterns unfold, Stories of humans, brave and bold. The zoo was buzzing—real life in view, Attachment formed with every clue. Social influence? It changed my lens, Shaped my thoughts, rewrote my sense. Now I see the world anew, Through psychology’s vibrant hue. I love it so much, it’s clear to me, This is my path, my university plea. Mind-breaking truths, emotions raw, Psychology’s depth leaves me in awe. So here I stand, inspired and keen — where I chased my dream. Not just a subject, but a way to see, The beautiful complexity of you and me. L6B: Olivia K, Philippa R, Belle T, Jade T, Toby C, Millie B, Anna H, Lizzie W-O, Grace JVV (and a little bit of AI).
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Religion and Philosophy
Sixth Form Elective
he RP Department continues to host the Higgins Society, a Sixth Form academic society for all students. Weekly lunchtime talks cover many topics but this year the inaugural Higgins Lecture had a specifically theological focus. The theme was Religion in Civil War England and focussed on the writings of the influential Worcestershire minister, Richard Baxter.
Core Maths
The academic year 2023-24 saw the introduction of Core Maths in the Sixth Form. The AQA Level 3 Certificate in Mathematical Studies (Core Maths) is designed to bridge the gap between GCSE and higherlevel study, equipping students with practical mathematical skills for real-world contexts. It focuses on problem-solving and application in areas such as data analysis, personal finance, estimation and critical interpretation of models. Optional topics include probability, normal distribution and graphical techniques. This qualification supports subjects such as Biology, Geography, Economics and Business, and carries UCAS points, making it valuable for progression to university courses that do not require full A-level Mathematics. It promotes confidence, logical reasoning and informed decision-making.
At a public event in the theatre, University of Worcester historian Professor Darren Oldridge explored how 17th century Christians imagined the Devil, regaling the audience with stories of hauntings and demonic appearances, including a headless bear that terrified a Civil War soldier on College Green! Dr Jason Kerr, Associate Professor of English at BYU, talked about Baxter’s concept of the nonsectarian “Mere Christian,” an idea that was later reimagined by C.S Lewis. At the end of the Summer Term, Dr McLaverty-Head spoke at the Malvern Festival of Biblical Literature. The festival explored the Bible as literature and not just as scripture and featured seminars, music and poetry. It was great to see several OVs at the event as well as current Lower Sixth students. A special thanks goes to RP A-level student Olivia Kent who helped out on the day.
The first cohort, who left in the summer of 2025, completed the course successfully, and it strengthened their university applications. OJH
Digital Skills
Our books of the year: Peter Ackroyd, The English Soul: Faith of a Nation A series of insightful pen-portraits about English spirituality from Bede to the contemporary world. Harold F. Bradley, The Ecstasy and the Pain A collection of poems from a former headmaster and founder of the Worcester Writers’ Circle (and RJH’s grandfather). Philip Carr-Gomm & Richard Heygate, The Book of English Magic England may be the most magicinfused country in Europe: this is its history.
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Matthew Page, 100 Bible Films The BFI Screen Guide to films about the Bible, from The Ten Commandments to Life of Brian. Christoph Schuringa, A Social History of Analytic Philosophy: How Politics Has Shaped an Apolitical Philosophy A revisionist perspective on some well known philosophical theories. Michael Taylor, Impossible Monsters: Dinosaurs, Darwin and the war between science and religion A beautifully written exploration of the relationship between science and religion focusing on the 19th century. RJMH
In May this year, the first cohort of Digital Skills students successfully completed the new IT-based elective course. The group consisted of David Marlow, Elliot Heppenstall, Matt Franks, Ollie Yip, Sofia Roberts, Dash Hingley and Rebecca Nosworthy. During the course they learnt to use various Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel and PowerPoint, to a high level, preparing them for using industry standard tools both at university and in their future careers. RJB
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Arts Award
This year 21 Bronze, Silver and Gold qualifications will be awarded to King’s pupils by Trinity College. Bronze and Silver Mrs Friend, Mrs Parry and Miss Hewitt had 17 enthusiastic Bronze Arts Award pupils this year. They started the year getting stuck into exploring the arts and their own art form which varied from dance and musical theatre to sculptures. This group certainly liked getting out and about to immerse themselves in in the world of art visiting galleries and trips to the theatre. A number of the Bronze Arts Award group showcased their Art form in the Arts Award Showcase and Gallery. Gold This is our second year of running gold Arts Award as part of the twoyear Elective Programme. Upper Sixth students Joseph and Eric Dykes successfully completed their Gold Arts Award with such enthusiasm and in true Arts Award spirit. Despite not having done Bronze or Silver, Eric took on Gold as his Elective with a real spirit of enquiry. His arts leadership project was particularly innovative, capitalising on his exceptional language skills to direct A-level Germanists in extracts from Bertolt Brecht’s Mother Courage and Her Children. He then led a fascinating online Q&A event where he spoke about his process and the challenges of directing in a foreign language. Joseph, meanwhile, was completing the entire journey. In his time at King’s, Joseph has very much become “Mr Arts Award - so much so that he has been inducted into Trinity College’s Hall of Fame for this academic year! This is what his profile on their website had to say about him: “Joseph has quite literally been Mr Arts Award“ throughout his time at school. He started his journey in Lower Fourth achieving his Bronze Arts Award (Upper Fourth was the only year that he wasn‘t directly involved.) He took Silver Arts Award in Lower Remove and then through Upper Remove and Fifth Form, he volunteered to help Bronze Arts Award pupils as part of his
Duke of Edinburgh awards. In Lower Sixth he started Gold Arts Award and, now he is in Upper Sixth and completing his whole school journey, he has also completed his Arts Award arc! At every stage, Joseph has gone above and beyond. Taking Silver during COVID lockdown periods, he switched seamlessly into online activities and events, using his leadership project to make sure there was something to engage other pupils stuck at home. As a DofE volunteer, he has been an exceptional support to the school‘s Arts Award Advisers, collaborative, capable and proactive but never overstepping teacher/student boundaries. Joseph‘s personal qualities came to the fore as he completed his Gold Arts Award portfolio. He is a persistent student but engagingly personable - those qualities allowed him to set up fantastic interviews with industry professionals, from the renowned organist, Paul Carr, to Stephen Whitson, director of Hamilton West End, and the UK and Ireland tour! Whilst much of Joseph‘s Arts Award work was completed in Lower Sixth, he has spent Upper Sixth exceeding expectations. This has included taking on the editorship of the school‘s in-house magazine for Arts Award students, Gold Standard. His editorial in this year‘s publication felt like a fitting end to his Arts Award story. Joseph has embraced everything that Arts Award has to offer and deserves every success!” We have welcomed four Lower Sixth students, Bella, Beth, Sophie and Harry, who have already got their teeth stuck into the arts. Bella and Beth have already done their leadership organising their ‘Pets and People’ art gallery showcasing a range of work from younger pupils they guided through a series of workshops. Sophie took on the Winter Dance Showcase and created such a magical event in College Hall for dancers showcasing their own dances. We look forward to seeing the rest of their work next year.
Arts Award Showcase and Gallery Our annual event was run by Gold Arts Award student, Joseph, again! Joseph, having done it once before, took the opportunity to run another event just because he enjoyed it so much. Eric assisted Joseph and we saw most of our Bronze, Silver and Gold pupils showcase their performances and display their work in the gallery. Gold Standard - Pupils from Bronze upwards were also composing and publishing online their reviews of other live arts events throughout the year, and our annual edition of Gold Standard, where our Gold Students publish their articles debating prevalent arts issues, went to press in May. Our phenomenal Gold pupils Joseph and Eric took the lead in publishing this year’s edition. The whole magazine is available in an online format at
Congratulations to all involved in Arts Award! The students have been inspirational and we look forward to them inspiring a whole new cohort in September. SP
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EPQ 2025: Robots, Recidivism and Cards for Humanity
This year, 33 students once again rose to the challenge of the Extended Project Qualification — but with a twist. For the first time, EPQ was delivered through elective lessons rather than Key Skills, giving students more time to explore their ideas and dive deeper into the taught sessions. The result? A cohort of confident, curious researchers with a flair for originality.
As ever, the range of projects was impressive. Artefacts included a walking bipedal robot (which did indeed walk across the desk during the presentation, albeit with its own blanket to prevent slipping on the science lab’s shiny surface) and a self-reflection card pack titled Cards for Humanity — a thoughtful twist on the familiar game, designed to prompt introspection and personal growth.
With the extra time, we introduced new sessions such as formulating aims and objectives, and gave students plenty of opportunities to practise their presentation skills — a decision that paid off in spades when it came to the final showcase.
Dissertations and timely
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tackled issues,
complex such as:
- Is Education Within Prisons the Best Method of Preventing Recidivism of Released Male Offenders in the UK?
- Should Male Weightlifting Influencers in the UK Disclose Their Performanceenhancing Drug Usage? The final presentations were a highlight of the year. Well-attended and full of energy, they featured probing questions from the audience and even more impressive answers from our EPQ candidates. It was clear that the students had not only mastered their topics, but also grown in confidence and clarity. EPQ continues to be a space where students can explore what matters to them, challenge themselves academically, and produce work of which they are genuinely proud. We can’t wait to see what next year’s cohort brings. CLB
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This year marked the launch of our very first Higher Project Qualification (HPQ) cohort — a small but mighty group of six students who took on the challenge with impressive dedication and creativity. Delivered through weekly afterschool sessions, the HPQ demanded commitment from the outset. Students not only attended lessons outside of regular hours but also wrote their dissertations over the summer holidays — a true test of perseverance. The projects covered a wide spectrum of ideas and interests. Artefacts included a simplified computer interface — a concept that initially raised eyebrows as it sounded so difficult but ended with a fully functioning product
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that exceeded expectations. Another student composed and performed a musical piece that blended Für Elise with L’s Theme, creating a classicalmeets-modern masterpiece. Dissertations tackled thoughtprovoking questions such as: ‘Is High National Debt Beneficial or Detrimental to a Nation‘s Economy?‘ and ‘Has Elite Swimming Become a Sport for the Rich?‘ — the latter supported by a nationwide survey completed by hundreds of parents of competitive swimmers.
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HPQ 2025: Small Group, Big Ambitions
with the experience of having already planned and executed a research project from start to finish.
We are incredibly proud of this pioneering group and look forward to seeing what they achieve next. CLB
Despite the challenges, the students thrived. Their results were excellent, and their enthusiasm contagious. In fact, nearly all of them have now signed up for EPQ in the Sixth Form, armed
Sign Language & TEFL
hose Sixth Formers who elected to take BSL (British Sign Language) and TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) over their two years were in for very much life-enhancing experiences. Our fantastic BSL teacher, himself profoundly deaf (and supported by his adorably cuddly assistant dog), enthused our six developing experts with very much hands on (up?) practice and experience each week to the point where the desire to continue beyond Level 1 was explored, but not feasible within the curriculum. All passed with flying colours.
Part two of the course was a collaboration with the University of Worcester and their team of TEFL trainers, who came to King‘s for bespoke sessions, which included hands-on teaching with adult learners, research, development of teaching techniques for a range of learners and confidence-building in use of the English language including its grammar. The highly motivated group now has both a BSL qualification and a certificate validating their experiences, allowing them to earn money in the coming years teaching English, whether abroad, online or just locally potentially a handy income source for a student.
The communication skills taken together will prove a valuable enhancement to people-facing careers including medicine, law, business any walk of life! Whilst the following years‘ TEFL courses are online, the certification and experiences will prove equally valid and the BSL course looks set to expand to include three separate qualifications all to be examined in one fell swoop. All our students who have selected these options can, more or less by definition, consider themselves polished and knowledgeable communicators. RAB
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Introduction of the Sports Leadership Course
The Sports Leaders course was introduced as an elective to provide students with an opportunity to develop essential leadership skills through sport. Last year marked a significant milestone as we successfully delivered the course to our first cohort of students. The feedback and outcomes from this inaugural group were overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the value of the programme in fostering confidence, communication and organisational abilities. One of the key strengths of the course lies in its practical application. Students are not only taught theoretical aspects of leadership, but
are also given real-world opportunities to put these skills into practice. This has had a noticeable impact across the school community. Our younger year groups have benefited greatly from being led by Sports Leaders during activities, creating a supportive and inspiring environment. A particular highlight was the successful sports festival organised and delivered by the Sports Leaders for local primary schools. This event showcased their ability to plan, manage and execute a large-scale activity, reinforcing the importance of teamwork and responsibility. The course equips pupils with transferable skills that extend beyond sport, preparing them for
future challenges in education, employment, and everyday life. Leadership, communication, and problem-solving are qualities that will serve them well in any context. Building on last year’s success, the programme has grown significantly. This academic year, we are delighted to welcome 39 pupils who have chosen to take the course, reflecting its popularity and the enthusiasm it generates among students. We look forward to seeing this new cohort continue the tradition of excellence and community engagement established by their predecessors. KFK
Students are not only taught theoretical aspects of leadership, but are also given real-world opportunities to put these skills into practice. 40 • Vigornian 2024/25
CREATIVE & PERFORMING ARTS
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Dance
A stunning production, complete with incredible sets, costumes and lighting. Netball Superball
Level 4 dancers from KSW and RGS joined forces to learn two routines to perform at the Netball Superball in March. This fun event gave our youngest dancers the chance to perform with pom poms to lively, upbeat music in front of a large arena audience.
Winter Dance Showcase
This year’s annual Winter Dance Showcase was organised by Sophie Evans as part of her Arts Award leadership. Around 20 dancers participated, creating and performing their own choreography as solos, duets and small groups. The showcase was held once again in College Hall, providing an intimate and atmospheric setting for the performances.
Swan Lake
Our annual theatre trip was an exciting experience. Mathew Bourne’s Swan Lake toured again and, although it was our second time seeing it, the performance did not disappoint. Our dancers were captivated by the nearly all-male cast portraying the elegant swans. The set design, storyline, and costumes continued to impress everyone.
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Disney Dance Tour
This year saw our largest group yet (47 boys and girls) begin rehearsing in September, committing to a demanding schedule in preparation for the digital audition for our third Disney Dance Tour. With an earlier-than-expected audition deadline, dancers submitted a second audition showcasing their polished routines. Their hard work paid off as they advanced with ease and were invited to perform on a professional Disney stage. Rehearsals continued right up to the trip. Highlights included a workshop with two Disney professional performers teaching dances from current shows, an incredible and emotional performance on the Videotropolis Stage, a spectacular evening fireworks display, and endless energy from our wonderful dancers. We called it the “trip that kept giving.”
Wonderland!
Following the huge success of last year’s dance production Jungle Fever, the idea for Wonderland! quickly took shape and soon became the main focus for each dance company. They dedicated themselves to refining their characterisation and dance technique to create a stunning production, complete with incredible sets, costumes and lighting. Wonderland! told the story of Alice, a curious girl who fell down a rabbit hole into a whimsical world filled with eccentric creatures. After spotting a rabbit in a waistcoat, she tumbled into Wonderland and embarked on a series of strange adventures.
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Drama
lthough this academic year saw us sadly say farewell to our Events Technician, Abi Johns, we were delighted to end the year by appointing Caitlin Smith as her replacement. Miss Smith has spent the academic year 2024-25 with us as our Graduate Drama Assistant and she has contributed enormously to the events I am about to summarise. The Drama Department will be in very safe technical hands next year!
In Act 1, Alice grew and shrank after eating cakes and drinking potions, encountering characters like the White Rabbit, Cheshire Cat, Tweedledee and Tweedledum and Absolem the Caterpillar. Act 2 featured the Mad Hatter’s chaotic tea party, a peculiar croquet game with the Queen of Hearts and her card soldiers, and the lively “Who Stole the Tarts?” trial. In the end, Alice was chased out and returned to her family’s tea party, leaving the question of whether Wonderland had been real or just a dream. From the moment the idea of Wonderland! was introduced through to the final rehearsals and show week, our dancers had been brimming with excitement and energy, eager to bring this eccentric tale to life. Their commitment to their roles and character development was truly impressive, and I was incredibly proud of their hard work. We couldn’t wait to share this dance production with everyone! KEL
As ever, the Department hit the ground running working on the flagship Autumn Term musical for our senior students. After a pattern of more edgy, modern works, we were aiming for something a little more nostalgic. With our show scheduled for December, White Christmas, was a natural choice. Auditions were the impressive showcase of King’s talent that we have come to expect and the show that we produced was a groundbreaking piece that caught the eye of the National School Theatre Awards. At the same time, Mrs Slater-Klein took the helm of Monday rehearsals for our Lower Years production of The Phantom Tollbooth, whilst Miss Smith ran point on the Senior Play, directing Ben Bailey-Smith’s school politics drama, Class. Our Speech & Stagecraft team also helped students with the final stages of preparation for their LAMDA exams, which took place at the end of September. When the results came in, it was another stunning set of grades for our Speech & Stagecraft pupils: 98% achieved a Merit or Distinction (59% Distinction), including Grade 8 Gold Medal Distinctions for Upper Sixth Joe Stone and OVs Rosie Brookes, Jess Edwards and Erika Jones. Other highlights included an outstanding score of 95% by George Marsh as he achieved Distinction in his Grade 7 Silver Medal Devising examination, and an exceptional 98% by Izzy Da Silva in her Grade 7 Silver Medal Speaking in Public examination. Reflecting on the results, Speech & Stagecraft Coordinator, John Hollyhead said,
I am delighted with another set of outstanding examination results and with the commitment and hard work all candidates have shown throughout the period. As has become traditional, our exam classes gave an Autumn Term public performance of their unique devised pieces, ahead of their practical exams. Our GCSE groups produced two thought-provoking Theatre in Education pieces, both looking at abusive relationships. A third piece took a similar theme but presented it as a naturalistic drama, whilst the final group chose to work in the style of Emma Rice, using song, movement and strong female characters to rework the Cinderella fairy tale in a modern context. Our A-level’s group piece was equally thought-provoking: working in the style of verbatim theatre company, The Paper Birds, they took on the tragic true story of doomed Putin-opponent, Alexei Navalny, but reshaped the narrative from the point of view of his daughter, Dasha, who has now taken up her father’s mantle, speaking out against tyranny. It was a theatrical reworking of the Navalnys’ own writings and speeches, interspersed with the voices of ordinary people caught up in the politics, and framed with exceptionally clever physical theatre sequences and an innovative use of multi-media. With our older pupils preoccupied with White Christmas, the Autumn Term’s Spotlight cabaret was very much a Lower Years affair. In terms of developing their repertoire, Agatha Ralley-Charteris, Edith Dean, Georgia Loughton and Harriette Townsend took their skills to new heights for their appreciative December audience, but they also found new material for future projects. One of the highlights of the Spotlight showcase was Edith, Georgia and Harriet’s rendition of Matchmaker from Fiddler on the Roof. They were so proud of the progress they made that they took this arrangement to the Worcester Competitive Arts Festival in March. Other WCAF highlights for King’s dramatists included awards for Daniel Lewis, Molly Branchett and Flo Sinfield.
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Heading into the Spring Term, we gave our annual London Theatre Tour a little twist by teaming up with the Art Department for the weekend. Whilst they headed off to galleries, our drama students were immediately put through their paces at Pineapple Dance Studios with an intensive, physical exploration of Macbeth. We did share the visual arts vibes with a fascinating tour of the Frameless exhibition, an immersive alternative view of famous artworks using state of the art video projection and animation techniques. The use of space and the orchestration of the audience experience made it a performance in its own right - a hugely memorable exhibition. Equally memorable was this year’s selection of shows provided by our fabulous tour partners, London Theatre Tours. Saturday night found us in the former GLC County Hall, now reframed as a the perfectly evocative setting for Agatha Christie’s Witness for the Prosecution. Watching on from the old public gallery viewing benches, those watching for the first time were completely taken in by the twists and turns of this classic courtroom whodunnit. Those of us who were prepared for the epic plot twist were still absorbed by the fabulous staging and the mesmerising performances of the whole company, particularly Isabel Della-Porta and Ben Galvin as Romaine and Leonard Vole. Our Sunday matinee was a far more frivolous, but no less
House Drama
The academic year 2024-2025 saw the reintroduction of House Drama. Formerly a staple, particularly in boarding school days, there hasn’t been a House Drama competition for at least 10 years! This year saw the relaunch, on the same day as the House Music competition. Whilst there were no entrants in the Group Drama or House Dance categories in this fledgling event, the Solo Drama and the Musical Theatre categories were hotly contested. In the end, Bella Crompton emerged victorious in the Solo class, whilst Flo Sinfield triumphed in Musical Theatre. It was a delightful way to reinvigorate performance drama,
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skilful affair, the new musical version of Mean Girls. All the wit of Tina Fey’s original screenplay was there but with vibrant modern vocals and electric choreography on a dizzyingly mobile set. Returning from London, many of our students were immediately back on stage for show week as the Seniors performed Class (see full review on p.47) and then it was back to our exam classes to give their public performances of their scripted examination pieces. The range of texts on display from our GCSE pupils was joyously eclectic, from the period witticisms of Noel Coward’s Blithe Spirit to the contemporary brashness of John Godber’s Shakers. Meanwhile, the A-level group treated us to an uncovered gem: - a littleknown play by April de Angelis called Wild East in which the audience witness what can be quite confidently labelled ‘the job interview from hell’! After largely comic turns, our Spotlighters closed the term with their cabaret which had a much darker tone. From Amelia Walmsley’s chilling rendition of Pirate Jenny from The Threepenny Opera to the ensemble’s staging of the opening of King Lear, with a commanding title performance from Henry Friend, it was another celebration of the breadth and depth of talent here at King’s. There was no let-up in energy going into the final term. Miss Lane’s stunning
made more special by welcoming back OV Hollie Avery as our adjudicator. Hollie had recently graduated from LAMDA’s MA Musical Theatre Actor programme, after completing her first degree in German and English Literature in Edinburgh. She had great advice for our competitors about starting out in a career in the arts, and is really carving out a name for herself. The academic year ended with the outstanding news that Hollie
choreography and Mr Haynes’s hypnotic video projection - not to mention Miss Smith’s outstanding costumes – brought Wonderland! well and truly to life with Issy Briggs dancing the role of Alice in an amazing full-length Dance production. Mrs Slater-Klein steered the Lower Years production to a fantastic conclusion with the delightfully anarchic The Phantom Tollbooth, a homage to childhood imagination with amazing performances all round, not least Mortimer Dykes’s lead role as Milo. Our final Spotlight cabaret may have been our smallest, but the quality was unbelievable. Bella Crompton led the way, using Spotlight in its true developmental spirit to explore her proposed Drama School audition speeches, ably supported by Sophia Boyd and Cecily Jarvis including three distinctive takes on monologues from the harrowing one-woman show, Prima Facie. There was just one thing left to do in the very final week of the school year – celebrate! The King’s Awards for Theatre Arts returned to New Road again for a sumptuous three course meal in the glorious Graham Hick pavilion. The KAFTAs themselves were almost incidental in a night where competition played second fiddle to a resounding sense of togetherness as we celebrated the year’s success with red carpet flair! Here’s to next year...!
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was joining the cast of Netflix’s new adaptation of Pride and Prejudice. We can’t wait to hear all the showbiz gossip when filming wraps next year! Thank you, Hollie, and well done to all our House Drama competitors and winners. Hollie (playing Kitty Bennet) alongside her Bennet sisters and with Mrs Bennet (Olivia Colman)!
KAFTAs 2025
A fter the success of 2024’s inaugural KAFTAs, it was back to the Graham Hick Pavilion for the 2025 King’s Awards for Theatre Arts. Over 100 pupils were invited to our gala celebration on Monday 30th June. This represented all the pupils who had been involved in a public performance throughout the year, on stage and off, showing what breadth and depth we have of those willing to represent the School live on stage. A grand total of 80 pupils were able to accept their invitations, and they arrived at New Road in the full spirit of red carpet glamour. This year we were delighted to have the services of talented Sixth Form photographer, Joseph Roberts, who took on the ‘paparazzi’ role and made sure that everyone’s moment in the spotlight was captured. The staff at New Road looked after us once again in glorious fashion – it was especially lovely to see our youngest Lower Fourth pupils treated like young adults as we all enjoyed our three course meal. The real business of the evening though was the awards. Although they are deliberately lighthearted – it is virtually impossible to single out any particular pupils as ‘winners’ - they were still hotly contested (there were definitely some dark arts being employed in a bid for votes!) Eventually, this year’s winners were announced: Issy Briggs took home Favourite Solo Performance (Senior) for Wonderland! whilst Edith Dean took the Junior prize for her role in The Phantom Tollbooth. Hermione Hogg was the Ensemble Hero (Wonderland!) and Ella Beighton was the Unsung Hero (The Phantom Tollbooth). Charlotte Capel won Most Committed Performer (The Phantom Tollbooth) and Sienna Clarke was awarded Most Eye-catching Performer (Wonderland!). There were more The Phantom Tollbooth awards for Rowan Thomas, who scooped Favourite Comedic Moment, Mabel Machin, the Favourite Characterisation winner, and Penny Blakemore, who was voted Most Helpful Backstage. This year’s Favourite Newcomer went to Wonderland! dancer, Alexandra Williams, whilst this year’s Teacher’s Choice award also went to a dancer – Lilly Martin. She has demonstrated exceptional maturity this year, working as the only Lower Years pupil in the Platinum Dance Company, really embracing the opportunity to learn from the Sixth Form Dancers around her and keep pushing herself to the
next level. It is one of the aspects of the performing arts we are so proud of – the caliber of our oldest performers and their willingness to nurture the young ones coming up from the School. When we see those young pupils value and embrace that unique opportunity to work with the seniors, we are not just filled with pride but with hope for the future. Knowing what to expect this year, we were more prepared for the showtunes, so the evening ended in a fitting theatrical style with very enthusiastic musical theatre karaoke! It was another glorious evening being able to celebrate the commitment and passion of our performing arts pupils with such a spirit of fun and camaraderie.
Theatre Trips
This year marked a twist in how we offer opportunities to enjoy live theatre as an audience member. It is such a valuable experience. The interruption of the pandemic has sadly changed perspectives on the arts, but we remain committed to championing the huge benefits of theatre-going. It is impossible to replicate that shared experience of being part of a community that you feel when you’re in a packed auditorium. There is a palpable physical reaction, sadly not the same watching on screens through headphones! What is more, that shared experience is one of empathy. The arts offer us the chance to view the world through the eyes of others and, when we experience that as a community, the shared empathy is much deeper. From the most frivolous musical comedy to the most profound tragedy, every audience opportunity allows us to learn something new – often about ourselves! Championing those values, we decided to broaden our offering, and make all our theatre trips available to all year groups (irrespective of the subjects being studied). We still ran focused curriculum trips for particular groups, like the GCSE and A-level London Theatre Tour, but added in half-termly trips making everyone welcome.
outstanding. The bar was set high! However, our next outing definitely did not disappoint. We were fortunate enough to catch the National Theatre’s production of War Horse out on tour at the New Theatre Oxford on December 11th. Every so often, a theatre production comes along that changes the landscape of theatre making. War Horse was one of those seminal theatre moments when it opened back in 2007. Being able to share the touring production with a new generation of budding theatre makers was an absolute joy. In the same vein of game-changing revivals, we were so excited that Matthew Bourne’s ground-breaking allmale Swan Lake, first performed 30 years ago(!) was back on the road, heading to the Birmingham Hippodrome in March. More people know it than they think – it‘s the production that adult Billy is performing in at the end of Billy Elliott – and it was great to share this unique storytelling experience with our pupils. Hot on its heels was April’s trip to the Grand Theatre Wolverhampton to see Dear Evan Hansen. This production tackles mental health issues head on – it is fearless and thought-provoking, but the music is anthemic and uplifting. That essential spirit of empathy is well and truly engaged but you leave collectively believing that “You Will Be Found”! Due to circumstances beyond our control, our planned June trip to see Percy Jackson: The Lightning Thief sadly had to be postponed, but we have already rebooked for next year! For a first year in this new format, we covered a lot of miles and a lot of hours in the company of wonderful ambassadors for the King’s School. It was particularly heartening to see how many of our Lower Fourth pupils signed up for all the trips, bravely joining unknown groups and being taken under the wing of our seasoned Sixth Form theatregoers. We already have big plans ahead for next year and can’t wait to reflect on those in next year’s edition of the Vigornian.
Our first trip of the year, on Saturday October 5th, took us to London’ West End to see the award-winning Hadestown at the Lyric Theatre. A hauntingly unique take on the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, the musicianship on display was breathtaking, the staging spectacular and the sheer quality of storytelling
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White Christmas
Catching the eye of the National School Theatre Awards is no mean feat and their review of White Christmas speaks for itself. It does, however, have an even more exceptional post-script. As well as a nomination for Best Musical, there were also individual nominations
for Bella Crompton (Best Actress in a Musical), Eric Dykes (Best Supporting Actor in a Musical) and Amelia Walmsley (Best Supporting Actress in a Musical). The NSTA review might have been full of superlatives but the best was still to come: on Monday June 23rd, in front of a packed Gillian
Lynne Theatre in London’s West End, Amelia was crowned Winner of Best Supporting Actress in a Musical - well-deserved national recognition for an exceptional performance in an exceptional show! Huge congratulations to Amelia but also to the whole ensemble! SP
The Phantom Tollbooth
For two evenings in June, the Drama Department transported audiences to the fantastical world of The Phantom Tollbooth, brought to life by our talented Lower Years pupils and directed by Drama teacher Lauren SlaterKlein. At the heart of the story was Milo, played with charm and curiosity by Upper Fourth pupil, Mortimer Dykes, who led us on a quest through lands of logic, language, and imagination. Along the way, Milo encountered a host of eccentric and memorable characters, some who aided him in his mission to rescue the Princesses Rhyme and Reason, and others who stood in his way. The production was a feast for the senses: energetic, vibrant, and visually stunning, with imaginative set design, striking costumes and seamless technical execution
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Class
A massive congratulations to all students involved in this year‘s Senior Production of Class by Ben Bailey Smith and Lajaune Lincoln. Performed just before half term on the 12th and 13th of February to packed audiences, the play follows the final moments of the school president campaign for Chloe (Esther Good) and Oli (Tigo Marskell) where it all comes crashing down. Friendships are destroyed, alliances unveiled and promises broken. The play navigates the turbulent world of social media, on the backdrop of a mock House of Commons where Jason (Henry Friend) works to uncover the two candidates’ corrupt campaigns.
Whilst humorous, the script created a thought-provoking journey for the audience as we delved into the everrelevant world of politics.
director on this project said, “It was really enjoyable to see this from a different perspective, and I liked being able to have that new input”.
The students helped choose the play back in September and had been working on it from early October. We had students in the Lower Remove with their first ever Kings‘ production (Ava Pothos and Woody Jones) all the way to experienced Lower Sixth performers (Esther Good and Elizabeth Radford) who helped guide and nurture those new to this process, and it was lovely to see such a warm and creative environment. Bella Crompton (Lower Sixth), who worked as an assistant
For two nights the cast and theatre crew left the audience laughing with one audience member saying it was “Lively and witty, with lovely atmospheric moments and great pace and energy throughout the show.” As Director, it was lovely to work with this cast and crew, as they all really brought the world to life, worked so diligently and were dedicated to creating such a fabulous show and I am so immensely proud of every single one of them. Caitlin Smith
that truly elevated the storytelling. Behind the scenes, the entire show was run by our dedicated pupil tech crew, who operated with professionalism and precision. From lighting cues to sound effects and scene transitions, they managed a complex and challenging show with remarkable skill and confidence.
The response from the audience was overwhelmingly positive, with parents sharing their appreciation:
performance and thoroughly enjoyed it— very impressive performances from the young cast and crew.“
“We all thoroughly enjoyed it. The young performers were great and all of the stage hands and technicians were brilliant too.“
The pupils themselves also reflected on the experience with enthusiasm:
Rowan Thomas, also Upper Fourth, delivered a standout comedic performance as the Humbug, delighting the audience with impeccable timing and flair. Bookending the show with grace and gravitas, Mabel Machin offered a mature and thoughtprovoking portrayal that left the audience reflecting on the deeper messages of the play.
“Just wanted to take a moment to thank you for all the amazing work you and the creative team put into the show. It was brilliant—the kids were all great. You should be so proud of what you‘ve all achieved!“ “Thank you so much for the experience— she has learnt a lot, from technical skills to resilience when very tired (!) and made many new friends. Each day this week she’s come home buzzing and has loved being part of the tech crew. I went to last night’s
“I enjoyed mixing with the Year 7s and making new friends.“ “Everyone got a role and something to do... The teachers were great and helpful; I loved my costume.“ “I really enjoyed the costumes and using the props, like drinking random stuff!“ “I really enjoyed the show, especially watching it come alive over time, with the set, lighting, sound and costume.“ LSK
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Music
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he first musical event of the school year brought over 150 pupils together from the King’s Foundation at Worcester Cathedral, alongside the world-renowned Drakensberg Boys Choir from South Africa. This event had the largest audience of the Drakensberg Choir’s UK tour and featured an extraordinary evening of music, energy and cultural exchange that left the audience feeling inspired and uplifted. The Drakensberg Boys Choir captivated the audience with their powerful repertoire. Opening with six songs, accompanied by piano and African drums, they set the tone for an unforgettable night. The choirs from King’s Foundation followed suit, each performing three solo pieces, including King’s Hawford’s renditions of A Thousand Years, Uma Familia, and
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Cantar! The pupils from King’s St Alban’s also shone, delivering dynamic performances from Bob Chilcott’s The Elements, which were enhanced by creative movements that brought the music to life. The evening reached its climax with all four choirs, around 200 singers, coming together to perform traditional African songs Shosholoza and Masithi Amen. The combined voices, choreography and audience participation created a truly magical atmosphere, with Coldplay’s Viva la Vida bringing the entire Cathedral to its feet. For those lucky enough to attend, or those who missed out, recordings from the concert are now available on SoundCloud by searching King’s Worcester Music. The House Song Competition was as lively and spirited as ever. While the
focus was on the music, the event also helped foster teamwork as the Upper Sixth led their houses in rehearsals and in conducting their performances. Pupils performed with house musicians accompanying them, whether on piano or in a full band. In the end, Choir House triumphed with their rendition of Steal My Girl, Oswald came second with Baby One More Time and Chappel took third place with Don’t Go Breaking My Heart. The solo competition featured 50 performances. The atmosphere was one of encouragement and excitement, with each performance reflecting the hard work and dedication of the pupils. The adjudicator praised the high standard of music on display, making it a challenging task to select the winners from such a talented group of performers.
Lower Remove: Winner – Henry Kalamarajan (W) Runner-up – Dan Lewis (Cl) Upper Remove: Winner – Benedict Roberts (Ca) Runner-up – Larry Rainger (Os) Fifth Form: Winners – Hebe Swift (Ch) and Tom Rawnsley (Ch) Runner-up – Ava Hackett (Ca) Sixth Form: Joint winners – Sophie Johnson (W) and Sam Caskie (Os) Runner-up – Edgar Kelsey (Ch) The Form Song and Solo Competition took place a week later and was adjudicated by Mr Christopher Allsop, former Assistant Director of Music at King’s and currently College Organist at Eton College. L4F took the prize for Lower Fourth Song with their lively performance of Riptide by Vance Joy, while U4C were crowned winners of the Upper Fourth Song category with their rendition of Carly Rae Jepson’s Call Me Maybe. Other standout performances included U4E’s Freed from Desire and L4E’s energetic version of Don’t Look Back in Anger, both of which were runners-up in their respective categories. The Solo Competition saw an impressive range of instrumental and vocal performances with 30 pupils participating. Lower Fourth Vocal Class: Winner: Georgia Loughton Runners-up: Shreya Vickram Darcy Bramble
and
Lower Fourth Instrumental Class Winner: George Bryer Runner-up: Ben Lee Upper Fourth Vocal Class Winner: Georgina Norris Runner-up: Emily Hind Upper Fourth Instrumental Class Winner: Rory Woodward Runner-up: Hannah Kehoe This year’s Remembrance service included the inaugural performance of an anthem, Before Action, which was written for the School Choir specifically for this service by local composer and King’s parent, Hilgrove Kenrick. Hilgrove is an award-winning
composer and producer for film, television and games, alongside sacred and secular choral works. Director of Music at King’s, Simon Taranczuk (Hon OV), explained, “The words of the anthem were from a poem written by W N Hodgson just a few weeks before he was killed in action during the Battle of the Somme in 1916. In February 2025, the Choir performed the anthem during the evening ceremony at the Menin Gate during the Music Tour to Belgium. We thank Hilgrove for this beautiful piece.” This year’s Senior School Musical was White Christmas, a heartwarming tale of friendship, love, and loyalty set against the nostalgic charm of post-war America. After 12 weeks of intense rehearsals with the cast, all elements of the show finally came together with cast, crew, costumes, stage, lighting, sound and live band in what was a challenging, yet fulfilling, week. The Music Department prides itself on offering opportunities for pupils to participate in the show band. This is a unique experience and unlike any other ensemble performance in that from one rehearsal to the next, particularly in the final few days, there are often changes to the music. Every performance can be slightly different, particularly with vamp bars where the band repeat a bar whilst the cast are talking over the music. Vamp bars definitely keep everyone on their toes! Jack Barnett, in his third and final show on drum kit, Eleanor Witt in her second on the bass and Hebe Swift (flute), Joseph Murray (percussion) and Tom Rawnsley (oboe and sax) in their first, were joined by Mr Gunter, Mr Adlington and Mrs Allsop with Mr Taranczuk directing from the piano. There was a great deal of challenging music in large-
scale numbers such as I Love a Piano and Snow for the band and cast. The Chamber Choir was busy in January with two events. Firstly, they had the honour of being special guests in a concert with the prestigious professional choir, The Armonico Consort, at Malvern Theatres. This event marked the third time in the past six years that these two choirs have collaborated. The concert, called Supersize Polyphony 2, featured a selection of pieces with multiple voice parts, including one of the most famous works in choral literature, Thomas Tallis’s Spem in Alium. The concert also included the world premiere of Lamentations, an evocative new work by Hollywood composer David Buckley, renowned for his contributions to film and television scores including Angel Has Fallen, Fifty Shades of Grey, Shrek III, The Lincoln Lawyer and The Good Wife. The Chamber Choir had a significant role in this large-scale, unaccompanied piece contributing several sections independently from the professional singers. The conductor of the choir, Christopher Monks, expressed his admiration and gratitude, writing: “The fabulous singers of the Chamber Choir were integral in making the concert so brilliant. They were so patient and flexible with the preparation of a world premiere, and in the performance they totally did themselves proud. They were an inspiration to the primary school singers behind them.”
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At the end of January, the Chamber Choirs of the three Cathedral Choir Schools, King’s Worcester, King’s Gloucester and Hereford Cathedral School came together for the fourth combined choirs Choral Evensong in Worcester Cathedral. Since its inaugural service in 2022, the choirs have performed together in Worcester, Gloucester and Hereford before returning to Worcester this year for the second time. Many pupils in these choirs are former and current choristers who have been involved in the worldrenowned annual Three Choirs Festival. Repertoire included Elgar’s dramatic anthem, The Spirit of the Lord. The termly School Concert features our large ensembles which rehearse each week across the year – School Choir, First Orchestra, Wind Band, Chamber Orchestra, The King’s Swingers, Second Orchestra and Lower Years Choir. In the Autumn concert, the choirs reprised music that was performed at the concert with the Drakensberg Boys Choir. The audience was invited to join in with the song I Just Gotta Sing by Vango and, after a brief lesson from the Lower Years Choir, they did so with some enthusiasm and conviction! The Wind Band opened the concert with a wonderful rendition of Prairie Portrait, evoking the vast, open plains of the country, before transporting the audience to Florida with an energetic Disney medley. The King’s Swingers performed two great numbers: Moanin’ and Michael Jackson’s Rock with You. The band has undergone the biggest shake-up in its 10-year history, with a large number of exceptional Upper Sixth pupils leaving in the summer and new talent stepping in. The Chamber Orchestra played a Symphony by Boyce, followed by the dark and intense Prelude from the 1960s thriller Psycho. Although it did not include the most famous piece of music from the film, the performance was certainly dramatic and gripping. The First Orchestra followed with a delightful waltz by Dvorak, which highlighted the rich colours of the various sections of the orchestra. The Spring Term Concert featured a range of music that was performed during the Music Tour to Belgium. The concert was brought to a close by the First Orchestra, who took centre stage with two fantastic performances of well-known tunes, The Can Can and the Thunderbirds theme.
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The Summer Term Concert began with The King’s Swingers performing two numbers, opening with Miles Davis’ All Blues from the iconic jazz album Kind of Blue. The audience then had great fun getting involved in some vocal participation with Rutter’s Down by the Riverside arrangement for choir and ensemble! Two pieces for the small brass ensemble followed, featuring four pupils from four different years. Upper Sixth Music Scholar, Sam Caskie, had written a piece for the brass trio, which featured him and fellow Music Scholars John Etherington and Larry Rainger. Entitled Tioram, it depicts the grandeur and landscape of Castle Tioram in the Highlands in Scotland. They were then joined by Henry Kalamarajan in a performance of Sam’s arrangement of Moon River, which also featured an appearance of another musical instrument – the Melodica! The Chamber Orchestra performed four short, but challenging, preludes written by Shostakovich and arranged for the ensemble by Mr Gunter. The Wind Band’s set began with the theme tune from the Star Wars series The Mandalorian and finished with the The Acrobat; well-known to many parents in the audience as the theme tune to a 1980s children’s show. This piece is a staple of the trombone repertoire and featured Sam Caskie as the soloist. In March, 60 pupils from the King’s Foundation spent a day participating in the annual Orchestral Workshop. The aim of the Orchestral Workshop was to learn music from scratch in various groupings: Workshop Orchestra, Workshop Brass, Wind Band and String Orchestra. The day closed with an informal concert to showcase what we had achieved. The concert opened strongly with Brass Group performing a famous march – The Toreador’s Song from Bizet’s opera, Carmen. The tune featured the trumpets and French horns ably supported by the lower brass trombones and euphonium. This was followed by orchestral pieces, the first in traditional Scottish style, Mairi’s Wedding, along with the hymnlike St Anthony Chorale. String Orchestra jazzed things up with Little Brown Jug and, to maintain
the mood, the Workshop Orchestra followed with another energetic and rhythmic piece, Caribbean Carnival. Wind Band tackled an ambitious and well-known piece called Liberty Bell. The concert was punctuated by solos from pupils from across the three schools. Olivia G from Hawford (violin), George P from St. Alban’s (trumpet), and Jack T (bassoon), Henry K (harp), Delphine P (piano) and Ed S (clarinet) from the Senior School all entertained the enthusiastic audience with a wide range of pieces. Finally, the Workshop Orchestra brought the concert to a close with the traditional Jamaican melody Yellow Bird, and a great fun spooky piece called Ghost Ride, complete with all the Orchestra players embellishing it with spooky vocal sounds and screams! This exhilarating day is a wonderful opportunity for children to gain lots of ensemble playing experience, to learn music from scratch, to improve sight-reading skills and follow musical direction whilst having great fun learning new repertoire and making new friends. Across the course of the year there have been six Young Performers’ Concerts featuring nearly 100 performances from pupils in the Lower Fourth to Lower Remove. These take place in the informal setting of the Vigornian Room, though the final one of the year took place in College Hall. In March, distinguished composer, Sir John Rutter, visited the School as part of the Worcester Competitive Arts Festival. Sir John led a choral workshop in College Hall with 350 singers from the local community, including several pupils and parents.
busy career as a freelance musician as a singer, producer, composer and arranger. For the second year in a row, the Summer Term OMN took place in the School Gardens with a large crowd enjoying a mini festival-type atmosphere. It was a great evening of outdoor music-making which concluded with an energetic rendition of Meatloaf‘s Like a Bat Out of Hell performed by the Head of School, Eric D!
During the day, he met with our Cathedral Choristers, who had the opportunity to ask questions about his favourite composers and his life as a composer. He also took time to sign their programme for a concert that took place later that evening in the Cathedral, featuring one of his largescale works, Psalmfest. Before the concert, he gave a talk in College Hall about his life as a composer and his friendships with several Old Vigornians, including Stephen and Nicholas Cleobury, as well as former King’s Director of Music from the 1960s, Harry Bramma. Harry, now in his 90s, has just published his memoir and Sir John gave the audience some of Harry’s anecdotes from his long and distinguished career as a teacher and organist. Over 70 pupils from the Foundation took part in the solo section of the Arts Festival, with many receiving awards for their outstanding performances. The event gave pupils the opportunity to perform in a friendly and supportive environment and receive invaluable feedback from the team of expert adjudicators. Highlights of the Worcester Competitive Arts Festival for our pupils: Charlotte C, (Lower Fourth) – Promising String Performer Award Daniel Lewis, (Lower Remove) – Promising Musical Theatre Performer Flo Sinfield, (Upper Remove) – Intermediate Musical Theatre Solo Award Molly Branchett (Fifth Form) – Worcester Arts Council Award for Drama, Overall winner of the short story writing competition, Mary Mannion Music Composition Trophy Ellie Bishop (Lower Fourth) – Rock and Pop Performance Award
The first Open Mic Night of the year in November was a resounding success, showcasing the incredible talent of 30 pupils who performed an eclectic mix of music, ranging from George Michael to Guns N’ Roses. Due to a heating issue with the Boathouse, the venue was changed on the day to the John Moore Theatre. While this made the event a little more formal in terms of seating, it also allowed the Theatre Manager, Mr Haynes, to have some fun with the lighting for each performance! The night was marked by a series of debut performances from pupils in the Lower Remove and Lower Sixth, who bravely stepped into the spotlight for the first time. One of the most exciting developments of the evening was the emergence of new bands, adding a vibrant and collaborative element to the event. Alongside these group performances, the audience was treated to heartfelt pop ballads, beautifully delivered by soloists accompanied by piano. The diversity of acts highlighted the broad range of musical interests and talents of the pupils. The Spring Term event marked the 10th anniversary of Open Mic Nights. As always, the evening showcased a fantastic variety of musical styles, with performances ranging from the timeless classics of Frank Sinatra and The Who, to the more contemporary sounds of Muse and Coldplay. The event featured an impressive range of acts, from solo performances to a full eight-piece band. We were also treated to a guest appearance by OV Sam Clines who performed at the very first Oen Mic Night in March 2014 when he was in the Lower Sixth. That was Sam’s very first performance in a music event at King’s. Sam went on to win the Open Mic UK competition and now has a
During the year, 70 pupils achieved success in practical music exams with a large number of merits and distinctions. Hannah Bowen (Upper Sixth), a regular performer at Open Mic Nights, achieved a significant milestone by obtaining a diploma in Popular Music Vocals (DipLCM). This diploma recognises her exceptional talent and her ability to engage with a live audience, as well as her profound understanding of the music she performed. Bella Crompton (Lower Sixth) received a mark of 93% at Grade 7 for her Musical Theatre for Actors examination, achieving 40/40 for her stunning rendition of Tell Me It’s Not True from the musical Blood Brothers. Matteo Sobey (Fifth Form) achieved success with his Grade 8 Violin exam, and both Henry Kamalarajan (Lower Remove) and Gus Connelly (Upper Remove) with passed their Grade 8 singing exams, with Gus gaining a distinction. Rory Woodward, a talented Upper Fourth Music Scholar and chorister, has captivated the King’s community with his organ playing during whole school assemblies each Tuesday. At the beginning of the year, Rory took part in an organ masterclass with distinguished Old Vigornian Peter Holder, Organist at Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford. Peter formerly served as Sub-Organist at Westminster Abbey, famously played at both the Queen’s Funeral and the King’s Coronation. Reflecting on the experience, Rory described how Peter guided him through Bach’s Trio Sonata in B Minor, beginning with a complete performance before focusing intensively on perfecting just two bars. In the Summer Term, Rory won the Elgar Festival Young Composers’ competition, in the 11-14 category. His Wind Trio, Medieval Festival, was
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performed by three professional musicians at the Festival’s Elgar for Everyone Concert in Worcester Cathedral on Saturday. One of the adjudicators lives in Worcester and has an international reputation as a composer. Ian Venables said: “The melodic ideas are striking and the music has a strong rhythmic drive as well as some effective modulations. Rory used all three instruments skilfully and each one has an opportunity to shine.” The Elgar for Everyone Concert also featured several King’s pupils who performed side by side with professional musicians from the English Symphony Orchestra. The concert had a teddy bear theme which included a performance of Paddington’s First Concert, narrated by Classic FM presenter Zeb Soanes.
Special mentions go to Upper Sixth pupil, Martha Evans who featured as one of the soloists in a performance of a Bach motet and OV Florence Price (Cr 19-24) who appeared as a soloist for the second year in a row in Faure’s Requiem, performing with the Festival Voices Choir and the Philharmonia Orchestra. Martha will take up a Choral Scholarship at Corpus Christi College, Cambridge in October 2025 and Florence has just completed her first year as a Choral Scholar at Trinity College, Cambridge. King’s half term music trip to Belgium featuring the School Choir, Chamber Choir, Chamber Orchestra, and additional instrumentalists was a resounding success. The tour saw three concerts take place in Ypres, Poperinge and Ostend.
June also saw a visit from worldrenowned organist, David Briggs, giving three aspiring organists a workshop on organ technique and improvisation. Archie Morris, John Etherington and Rory Woodward had an individual session with David on the Cathedral organ. John and Rory had an opportunity to gain an insight into improvisation skills and had fun ‘jamming’ on the organ in a four-handed improvisation. David was Organ Scholar at King’s College, Cambridge in the 1980s and worked under Director of Music and Old Vigornian Stephen Cleobury.
One of the most poignant moments of the tour was the performance at the Menin Gate ceremony in Ypres on Saturday evening. This large memorial has the names of 54,000 soldiers killed during the First World War whose graves are unknown, including several Old Vigornians.
In July, King’s was proud to see some of its talented pupils and OVs play a role in the Three Choirs Festival - the oldest classical music festival in the world, with a history spanning nearly 300 years. Pupils and OVs performed with the Three Choirs Festival Youth Choir in the world premiere of Bob Chilcott’s Mass for Peace and Reconciliation, and our senior choristers took part in the live broadcast of Choral Evensong on BBC Radio 3.
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The choir and orchestra performed (in the snow!) in front of approximately 1,000 people, creating a deeply moving atmosphere during the laying of wreaths by several visiting schools. They performed the anthem, Before Action, as aforementioned, written by King’s parent Hilgrove Kenrick, specifically for this occasion. Adding to the emotional weight of the event, Eleanor Cartwright, senior cadet in the CCF, laid a wreath in honour of Old Vigornians. The concert in Poperinge was held in Talbot House, which was used during the war as a resting place and entertainment venue for soldiers away from the front line. A good audience of locals was captivated by the pupils’ performances. Our tour guide informed
us that two Old Vigornians, pupil Charles Eccles, and former Master of School House, Bede Fenton, both visited the house and signed their guest book in 1917; both were killed in action by the end of that year. In Ypres, the concert took place in St George’s Memorial Church. Another good audience, made up of members of St George’s congregation, came to support the performance. This church also has a link to King’s; on the Nave wall is a plaque in memory of Old Vigornians that was placed there about 20 years ago. The tour also included visits to several World War I sites, such as the Tyne Cot cemetery and the Flanders Fields Museum. These visits provided the students with an increased understanding of the important historical context of this area of Belgium. In addition to the concerts and historical visits, the tour offered plenty of opportunities to explore. The students enjoyed visiting numerous chocolate shops, indulging in Belgium’s famous sweet treats. An afternoon spent exploring the picturesque city of Bruges on the final day was a highlight for many. The group basked in the winter sunshine while taking in the city’s stunning architecture and charming canals. A river cruise through Bruges provided a relaxing and enjoyable way to see the city from a unique perspective. Earlier in the morning we visited Ostend and performed at a retirement home situated on the seafront. We were very well looked after with an extensive selection of delicious doughnuts! The music tour was a perfect blend of performance, culture and sightseeing and one that was greatly enjoyed by all. ST
SPORT
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Athletics It has been another excellent season of athletics with high levels of pupil participation across all age groups. Our Saturday fixtures continue to provide strong competition, often against well-established boarding schools from across the Midlands. This year, we’ve seen a growing number of athletes achieving individual wins and recording regular personal bests, reflecting the progress made across the programme. One of the most rewarding aspects has been the inclusive nature of the team, with boys and girls from different year groups competing together and offering fantastic support to one another throughout the season. Following on from their success at the County Champs, six pupils went on to compete for Hereford and Worcestershire in the prestigious Mason Trophy inter-counties competition. This is an opportunity to test themselves against some of the best athletes in the country. A special mention must go to Ethan Winning, who just missed out on a medal finishing in fourth place.
IAPS
King’s was proud to take part in the IAPS Athletics competition for the second time, following its expansion to include pupils from lower years in independent senior schools, not just those in prep schools. This provided a brilliant opportunity for our younger athletes to compete at a high level against top performers from across the Mercian region. On a scorching day at Stourport Athletics Track, over 50 schools who had met the entry standard came together and our team of 35 athletes rose to the occasion, with many achieving personal bests. Of our athletes, 11 placed first or second in their events, earning selection for the Mercian team at the National Championships held at the Commonwealth Games Stadium in Birmingham. Congratulations to Tom Barnett, Helena Cooke, Hattie Davies, Sienna Dowling, Monty Edwards, Thomas Exton, Khaleefah GarricksFerguson, Oliver Hurley, Holly Jones, Erin Launder, Evie Rea, and our Lower Fourth Girls Relay team. Competing in an international stadium with live commentary and medal ceremonies was an unforgettable experience that has inspired all involved to continue
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County Championships
Over 40 athletes from Upper Fourth to Lower Sixth competed for Worcester City in the Hereford and Worcestershire Track and Field Championships. King’s athletes made up over a third of the Worcester City team and won six Gold medals, six Silver medals and three Bronze medals, with a further 20 top eight finishes, making us one of the most successful schools in the county. Gold
Silver
Bronze
Ben Adam - Triple Jump
Evie Davies - High Jump
Lucy Tebbett - 1500m
Ella Purves - 800m
Daisy Jones - Triple Jump
Daisy Jones - 100m
Ethan Winning - Hurdles 100m & Shot
Anna Chapman – Javelin & Discus
Aiden Atkinson - Discus
Daisy Jones - Hurdles
Ollie Turner - High Jump Jack Fletcher - Shot
striving for excellence. A special congratulations goes to Helena Cooke, who became the first King’s Senior School athlete to win a medal at the Championships, earning Silver in the Year 7 Girls 1500m.
Track & Field Cup
As always, the Track and Field Cup was a highlight for many of our athletes as each member of the team does one track and one field event, where they score points which are combined to give a team total. In the county round there were some exceptional performances from all four teams, which saw the Inter-Girls and Junior-Girls make the A final for the teams ranked 1st-8th in the Midlands. Unfortunately, both our Junior teams just missed out on making the next round. It was a very tough level of competition, but all athletes did themselves proud in difficult conditions.
School Records
Well done to the eight pupils who have set school records this year. Many of these records have stood for a number of years, so this really does show the strength of our athletes: L4
U4
UR
FF
Monty Edwards – Shot
Freddie Preston - 1500 Erin Launder – HJ
Sophie Purves –800m
Ethan Winning – Hurdles
Helena Cooke – 1500m Holly Jones – HJ
Elsie Sinclair Javelin
Sports Days
Sports Day is always one of the best parts of the Athletics season, as the majority of pupils participate to score points for their House or Form. It is brilliant to see those athletes who train and regularly compete get to showcase their talents. It is, however, just as special to see pupils trying a new event or stepping up in something they do not usually do. To see every Lower Years pupil sat on the steps cheering their Form on in the vastly competitive relays, really is what the event is all about. We would like to congratulate the winners of the Victor and Victrix Ludorum, which are given to the pupil scoring the most points from their three individual events. LMS
Badminton Club (2024-2025)
Badminton Club welcomes members of all playing standards. Our aim is to provide everyone with the opportunity to enjoy the game with friends while developing their skills. Each week, we focus on practising different techniques that can be applied in matches. Members learn a variety of serves and explore how changes in grip and arm movement can affect the power and precision of their shots. We also work on footwork around the court and emphasise the importance of communication with partners, adjusting positioning based on the flow of play.
L4
U4
LR
UR
FF
Sixth Form
Victor Ludorum
Thomas Exton
Jack Marley
Jack Taranczuck
Ben Adams
Ethan Winning
Joe Stone
Victrix Ludorum
Holly Jones
Erin Launder
Amelia Moore
Daisy Fitton & Flo Venables
Lauren Harris
Lilia Mico
The much-anticipated results from each year group can be seen below: L4
U4
LR
UR
FF
Sixth Form
1st
B
A
Wulstan
Kittermaster
Chappel
Chappel
2nd
D
C
Castle
Oswald
School
Creighton
3rd
C
E
Choir
Choir
Wulstan
Kittermaster
a place in the County round of the Championships. These matches were incredibly close, with the final outcome decided by just a few points. Although the second-place team had a higher point total, our head-to-head win secured us the County title.
At the end of each term, we hold a fun club tournament where everyone rotates and plays with different partners. This format allows students to engage across year groups and adapt their gameplay to suit varying styles and strengths.
The girls then went on to represent the County in the Regional Finals, where they gave their all in every match. They adapted their strategies to counter experienced opponents, including the eventual winners, King Edward VI HS, who deservedly advanced to the National Finals. Despite not progressing further, our team finished 4th overall, just five points behind 3rd place. Their performance featured thrilling rallies, close games, and memorable winning points. As the first team from our school to reach this stage, their achievement is truly commendable.
We’ve also seen success beyond the club in external competitions. We are incredibly proud of our U16 boys’ and girls’ squads who represented the school in the National Schools Championships 2024/25. For some players, this was their first ever sports fixture, and they overcame nerves to perform with confidence and competence.
A special mention goes to Katie, who won all her singles matches except one—against the division winner. Both Katie and Lucy showed remarkable composure and determination, unfazed by facing opponents three years their senior and significantly taller (a notable advantage in badminton). They played with confidence, flair, and grit throughout.
The boys’ team played with great collaboration and resilience. They narrowly lost one match against a strong opponent, but took away valuable lessons and experience.
Looking ahead, Badminton Club is excited for another productive year filled with friendly and competitive games. We remain committed to promoting a fun and inclusive approach to the sport. All year round, we continue to welcome King’s racquet enthusiasts on a ‘turn up and play’ basis. CTP
The girls’ team exceeded expectations by winning all their matches, earning
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Cricket 1st Girls Cricket
Coach name: Mrs K Collins
1.
The 2025 season will be remembered as the most successful in the history of King’s School Worcester Girls’ Cricket, with the 1st XI reaching the quarter finals of both the Schools Cup National T20 and The Cricket Paper National Girls’ 100 Ball Cup. This outstanding achievement reflects the players’ dedication, skill, and teamwork, as well as the growing strength of the girls’ cricket programme at King’s.
2.
3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13.
Tilly Cook (C) - Worcestershire U18s Phoebe Brett – England U19, Birmingham Phoenix, Warwickshire Academy, Worcestershire Women’s &18s Bryony Gillgrass (VC) – Warwickshire Academy, Worcestershire Women’s &18s Sophie Smith-Graham – Gloucestershire U18s Grace Jansen Van Vuuren Eva Thomas – Worcestershire U18s Katie Holt – Warwickshire Hermione Pratt – Worcestershire U15s Charlotte Bailey – Worcestershire EPP & U15s Florence Bulbulia – Worcestershire U15s Effie Spencer-Thomas – Worcestershire U15s Tilly Mayhew – Worcestershire U15s Daisy Beardsell
Captain comment: Tilly Cook
This season has been an incredible one for the 1st XI and definitely our most successful yet. We’ve grown so much as a team, both in skill and confidence, and it’s been amazing to reach the quarter finals in both the National T20 Cup and The Cricket Paper 100 Ball Cup. From winter training through to our pre-season tour at Repton and all the fixtures that followed, the team spirit and determination have been outstanding.
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The foundations for success were laid during an excellent winter training programme, which began with a focus on technical skill development before progressing to scenario-based sessions that replicated match situations. This structured and purposeful approach ensured the squad entered the season tactically astute, physically prepared,and full of confidence. A pre-season tour to Repton School provided the perfect opportunity to build team spirit and match sharpness, featuring both a T20 and a 40-over fixture. The tour not only allowed the team to bond but also produced some impressive cricket from both sides, setting a strong platform for the competitive season ahead. The season began in fine style with back-to-back victories over local rivals Malvern College in both the 100 Ball and T20 Cups. In the 100 Ball fixture, King’s batted first, posting 157/4, before restricting Malvern to 99/7, winning by 58 runs. In the T20 encounter, Captain Tilly Cook led from the front with a superb 61 not out, supported by Grace Jansen Van Vuuren’s fluent 55, as King’s secured a commanding 77-run win. Momentum continued to build in Round 1 of The Cricket Paper 100 Ball Cup, with King’s delivering an exceptional bowling display to restrict RGS Worcester to 98/9. Bryony Gillgrass (3/6) and Tilly Mayhew (3/10) starred with the ball before the team chased down the total comfortably in just 47 balls. The Round 2 T20 Cup fixture brought one of the season’s standout performances, as Bryony Gillgrass produced a remarkable 161 not out off 61 balls, guiding King’s to a formidable
226/5. In reply, Sophie Smith-Graham (3/23) and Florence Bulbulia (2/6) bowled beautifully to seal another impressive victory. Further wins followed against Marlborough College (by 7 wickets), Repton School (by 10 wickets, with Smith-Graham taking 3/18), and St Edward’s, Oxford (by 1 wicket in a tense National T20 Round 3 encounter). The team’s fine form continued with an emphatic victory over Denstone College (7-wicket win, Smith-Graham 3/7, K. Holt 3/5) and a memorable triumph against the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), where Gillgrass struck a superb 102 off 67 balls in a successful chase of 176. In the National T20 last 16, Phoebe Brett played a key innings of 65, supported by Smith-Graham’s 3/8, as King’s overcame Berkhamsted School by 19 runs. The campaign concluded with two hard-fought quarter-final defeats — to Yorkshire Cricket College in the 100 Ball Cup and Ipswich School in the T20 — both by 23 runs, reflecting the competitive nature of this level of cricket. Across the season, the team displayed outstanding consistency, resilience, and togetherness. The blend of senior experience and emerging young talent created a positive and ambitious environment that has set new standards for girls’ cricket at King’s. A huge thank you must go to the Grounds Staff, whose hard work and attention to detail ensured that the pitches and facilities were always in excellent condition throughout a busy season. Thanks are also due to Assistant Coach Mr James, whose tireless efforts, enthusiasm, and support have been instrumental in the team’s development and success. The 2025 season has been a true milestone for girls’ cricket at King’s – one defined by excellence, determination, and pride in representing the school. With this momentum and the talent continuing to flourish, the future of King’s School Worcester Girls’ Cricket looks brighter than ever.
1st XI
Coach name: Mr S Greenall The 1st XI enjoyed yet another exceptional season in 2025, consistently showcasing the depth of talent within the School’s cricket programme. Winning 13 of their 17 fixtures, the team’s outstanding performance earned them a coveted place on the ‘Outstanding Seasons’ list in the esteemed Wisden Almanack.
The turning point came with a dramatic victory over the Gentlemen of Worcestershire. Chasing 190 and struggling at 52–3 midway through the innings, Will Thorp (75* off 50) and Henry Hawes (59* off 50) orchestrated an unbroken 143-run partnership, guiding the team home by seven wickets in a season defining performance.
The season began with a successful pre-season tour to Sri Lanka during the February half-term. Building on this momentum, the team secured victories in early fixtures against Bishop’s Stortford College and New Hall School, the latter marking the first meeting between the two schools. Notably, Will Thorp signalled his intent early in the season with scores of 76 and 98 in these matches. A commanding 108-run victory over Cheltenham College, bolstered by a fine century from Seth Essenhigh and a composed unbeaten half-century from Henry Hawes, was a perfect springboard into the main campaign.
Momentum firmly regained, the 1st XI followed up with impressive victories over touring Australian sides Knox Grammar and St Peter’s, as well as the Old Vigornians. The season’s highlight, however, came in the highly anticipated local derby against RGS Worcester. Batting first, RGS reached a promising 72–0 before captain Ollie Yip turned the game with a remarkable spell, taking a career-best 7–16 in a devastating collapse. Will Thorp’s composed 48 anchored the reply and despite a minor wobble, the team secured a memorable seven-wicket win.
Leading into the half-term break, the 1st XI maintained strong form with comprehensive wins against King Edward’s School (Birmingham), Monmouth, and The Forty Club. Highlights included a maiden fivewicket haul from Year 11 student Ben Eost (5–17), whose incisive bowling dismantled the King Edward’s top order. His contribution, alongside multiple half-centuries and a century across this period, underlined the squad’s strength in depth. Before the half-term break, the team faced Malvern College in a crucial T20 National Cup tie. In a rain-affected fixture, Malvern posted a strong total of 172 from their 20 overs, aided by a quickfire 89-run partnership. Unfortunately, some loose shot selection and mounting scoreboard pressure, meant the 1st XI were never really in the game and fell 42 runs short. Hopes of a cup run were dashed, but the squad remained determined to respond positively in the latter half of the season. However, the post-half-term period began with further challenges. Consecutive defeats to Malvern (again in rain-affected conditions), a strong Solihull side, and the prestigious Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) threatened to derail the season. Yet, this resilient group refused to let the campaign fade.
Batting was a key strength throughout the season. Will Thorp led the way with 754 runs at an average of 53.86, including seven scores of 50+ in ten innings. He was superbly supported by Seth Essenhigh (629 runs at 69.89) and Henry Hawes (496 runs at 62.00), the latter often delivering crucial runs in high-pressure moments. The trio amassed 12 half-centuries and five centuries between them, offering exciting prospects for 2026. The bowling unit was equally impressive. Ollie Yip finished as the leading wickettaker with 28 scalps, ably supported by the emerging Ben Eost, who claimed 23 wickets in a breakthrough season. Henry Hawes added 17 wickets with genuine pace, while seamers Felix Forrester (16), Barnaby Blundell (15), and Haydn D’Adda also made valuable contributions. Special recognition must go to Ollie Yip, who departs after five seasons with the 1st XI, making an extraordinary 68 appearances. His unwavering commitment and leadership have been instrumental to the team’s success. Yip’s final match, in which he took his 100th and 101st wickets on King’s Day against the Old Vigornians, was a truly fitting conclusion to an outstanding school cricket career. Sincere thanks to Gilly for his unwavering presence on match
days and during training, providing invaluable support throughout the season. Appreciation also goes to Mr Williams for his dedication to the winter and touring programmes, and to our superb grounds team for consistently preparing high-quality pitches for both training and matches.
3rds Cricket 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14.
Fred Tomlinson Matt Franks Henry Horsfall Alex Probert Sam Edwards Will Tucker Charlie Walker Will Dorrell Amar Pandey Tom Sutcliffe Peter John Charlie Shepheard Harry Press Hugo Morgan Iqbal
Coach name: Mr A Holliday This has been a somewhat frustrating season for the 3rds with half their fixtures cancelled due to weather or opponents not being able to field a team. However, all three fixtures that have been completed has been very eventful with both a number of memorable personal performance’s along with an eclectic choice of walk on and off songs on the team’s ‘boom box’. This has been coupled with an interesting choice of field setting by our now 3rds derby opponents Malvern College on their final ball. This did not detract away from two great batting performances to chase down two challenging totals to win both derby’s! The three games have also seen a change in all three team line ups with 21 players playing in all three games which has challenged Mr Greenall and Mr Holliday’s organisational skills.
The lively nature of all three fixtures and the ever-changing team line ups that made trying to get batting and bowlers in the right places a great challenge.
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U17 Cricket
Coach name: Mr S Greenall Following lots of success in recent years, expectations were high for the U17 squad heading into the 2025 National Cup campaign. With a wealth of talent now emerging in the senior ranks of the school, hopes were pinned on another successful run. However, a challenging firstround draw against Stowe School would prove be a difficult and unsurmountable challenge. The opening fixture took place at the Cinderella Ground under ideal cricketing conditions. Stowe’s openers made an explosive start, propelling their side to 150 for 2 and threatening to post an imposing total. However, a game-changing spell of 3–14 from Ben E, backed by disciplined support from the rest of the attack, saw the visitors restricted to a much more manageable 225 from their allotted 35 overs. In reply, the early loss of a wicket brought captain Will Thorp and Sam Berry together, and the pair responded with an outstanding 113-run partnership for the second wicket. With 72 runs required from the final 10 overs, the contest was finely poised. Unfortunately, the dismissals of both set batters in quick succession halted the momentum, and the team ultimately fell 28 runs short of the target. The first-round exit placed the team into the Plate competition, where the
draw offered no respite, with a clash against Trent College, one of the country’s most respected cricketing schools. Bolstered by the return of two key players from Worcestershire 2nd XI duty, the squad entered the fixture at near full strength. Captain Will Thorp continued his fine form, scoring a composed 62, while Henry Hawes added a rapid 59 from 54 balls. Together, they forged a valuable 89-run partnership for the fourth wicket. However, a lack of support from the lower order and some poor dismissals left the side with a belowpar total of 179. Despite taking wickets at regular intervals during Trent’s chase, a decisive innings of 48 from just 28 balls by their number seven swung the game in the visitors’ favour. Trent College sealed a three-wicket win in what was a closely contested and hard-fought match. Looking ahead, there is much optimism for 2026. Many members of the current squad remain eligible for selection next season, and the experience gained this year will no doubt prove invaluable in future competitions. Sincere thanks go to the Grounds Team for preparing consistently excellent playing surfaces, and to Mr Williams for his ongoing dedication and support of the U17 team.
U15A
Coach name: Mr J Mason The team began the season in fine form with a convincing win over Bloxham. A standout performance came from Barney Danks, who crafted a composed innings of 55 runs, setting the tone for the term. Despite some strong individual efforts, the team struggled to produce a complete performance across the next five fixtures. However, the match against KES Birmingham was a highlight during this period. It proved to be a thrilling contest that went right down to the wire, with Jamal Jamal delivering an excellent spell of bowling, finishing with figures of 4-34.
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Our second victory came against Solihull, led by a captain’s performance from Ollie Hooke, who also impressed with the ball, taking 4-22. This momentum carried into the Solihull 6s competition, where the team performed admirably to top their group, eventually bowing out in the semi-final. The season concluded on a high with a fixture against Knox Grammar School from Australia. It was particularly pleasing to see the squad produce their best performance of the term, securing a well-earned victory. The team’s commitment and hard work throughout the season were evident, and it was rewarding to see their efforts culminate in such a strong finish.
U15 Girls Cricket
The U15 girls have enjoyed a fantastic season, showing real growth, teamwork and determination throughout their campaign. From the first match to the final ball of the season, the team’s commitment to developing their skills and supporting one another has been evident both on and off the field. The U15s enjoyed a highly successful indoor season, winning the County rounds of The Lady Taverners competition and proudly representing Worcestershire at the Regional Finals. The team played some excellent cricket throughout, showing great skill and teamwork, and only narrowly missed out on qualification for the National Finals. The girls produced a string of impressive performances, winning the majority of their fixtures and demonstrating a clear improvement in their batting depth, bowling accuracy, and fielding intensity. Their efforts were rewarded with a strong run in the National Schools T20 Cup, where they advanced to the quarter finals — a brilliant achievement and testament to their hard work and consistency. Within the cup, the team secured memorable victories over Dr Challoner’s and Kings High Warwick, showcasing their ability to perform under pressure and adapt to different match situations. Each game highlighted the progress they’ve made - particularly in building partnerships at the crease and maintaining energy and focus on the field. In the quarter final, the girls faced a very strong Ipswich side in what proved to be one of their most competitive and spirited games of the season. Despite the result not going their way, they played with heart and confidence, pushing Ipswich all the way and earning praise for their attitude and sportsmanship. Overall, this season has been a huge step forward for the U15 girls. Their continued development, resilience, and enthusiasm bode extremely well for the seasons ahead. Well done to all the players - a season to be proud of!
U14A Cricket
U13 Cricket
U12s Cricket
The U14s enjoyed a competitive and rewarding cricket season, playing 12 matches in total. The team secured seven victories, with five losses, reflecting a strong end to the season, winning five on the bounce. Each game provided valuable experience, and the players showed impressive development in both skills and teamwork.
This was a season of hard work, progress and success for the U13A boys‘ cricket team. A record of seven wins from 11 matches was an excellent return for this team. Indeed, the boys seemed to have the happy knack of winning close games and many boys stepped up in terms of performance throughout the year.
This has been a really encouraging season for the Lower Fourth cricket team, which has seen nearly 30 pupils attending cricket training sessions and has meant we have been able to field two teams for the season.
Highlights of the season included some excellent batting partnerships, tight bowling spells and outstanding fielding efforts that turned the tide in several matches. Despite a few narrow losses, the team maintained great spirit, demonstrating resilience and a desire to learn and improve. As always, Solihull Sixes provided great entertainment and a fantastic experience for the boys, narrowly missing out on the final after a dramatic finish in the semi-final against the eventual winners, Warwick.
In true sports cliché fashion, it would be true to say the team was greater than the sum of its parts. Strong leadership helped, and both Adam Holt and Rory Freeman impressed as mature and tactically aware captain and vicecaptain respectively.
Coach name: Mr B Williams
The progress shown throughout the season has laid a solid foundation for future success. With continued focus and determination, this group has the potential to grow even stronger next season. Well done to all players for their effort, energy and enthusiasm throughout a memorable campaign.
U14B Cricket
Coach name: Mr R Good The U14B cricket team had an outstanding season, marked by growth, commitment, and a deep passion for the game. From the very first match, the players demonstrated a strong team spirit and a willingness to learn, which translated into consistent improvement in both individual and collective performance. Technical skills within their batting, bowling and fielding developed significantly with their enthusiastic and committed approach to training. Highlight of the season was displayed away to Monmouth where an explosive batting display by all saw the highest total of the season being set at 171. This was then followed up by a superb bowling display seeing the opposition all out for just 39. The progress shown by all has been a pleasure to watch. The U14B team has laid a strong foundation for future success, and their journey is a testament to what can be achieved through hard work, passion and team unity.
Coach name: Mr R Chapman
Adam generally bowled his overs with skill, variety and thought and is able to get good batsmen out. Freddie Martin opened the bowling to good effect and was the leading wicket taker. Harry Bradford was easily the most economical bowler whilst Jack Barwise showed great promise. Behind the stumps, Peter Unwin was agile and reliable; he also shows strong potential with the bat. Rory Freeman scored 220 runs at 55 batting three and is a stylish and dogged batsman, unwilling to give up his wicket cheaply. The same could not be said of some of the other batters although Will Davies made good progress and hits a mean cover drive. Sam Perry came into the side in a tough, tight game against Winterfold, hit an aggressive 41 and then took 3-6! Again, he has much potential.
Coach name: Miss P Sanders
The team has enjoyed a highly competitive and rewarding season, facing a series of challenging fixtures against strong opposition. Many of the matches were closely contested, reflecting the team’s determination and growing understanding of the game. A particular highlight was the excellent win against RGS, a thrilling encounter that went right down to the final two overs. This victory showcased the team’s composure under pressure and their ability to work together to achieve success. Over the course of the season, all players have made significant progress in their bowling, batting and fielding skills. Their commitment to training and enthusiasm for the sport have been evident throughout. Impressively, several U12 pupils have also represented older age groups, demonstrating the strength and depth within this year’s squad.
I have really enjoyed training this year, I have learnt so much and am now confident putting skills in to matches.
The season was tough at times and very heavy defeats to Bromsgrove and KES Birmingham were definite reality checks. However, there was much to celebrate including a superb 9 wicket win at Warwick (the coach‘s old school so particularly pleasing!) and a tight victory by 17 runs at Monmouth. The boys trained hard, were certainly ‘coachable‘ and made real improvements especially in the field. An impressive season!
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Cross-Country Winterfold Cross-Country
The U13 team (Lower and Upper Fourth combined) travelled to Winterfold for their annual cross-country fixture, where they competed with great enthusiasm and determination. The weather was ideal for running, creating perfect conditions for a competitive race. The Girls’ Team performed admirably, with several athletes taking part in their first competitive event. Helena Cooke delivered an outstanding run to finish 2nd overall, a particularly impressive achievement as a Lower Fourth student. The Boys’ Team also ran strongly, placing 3rd out of seven teams. Jack Marley finished 5th, and a special mention goes to Freddie Preston, who won the race by over 100 metres—his second consecutive victory at this event. It was also fantastic to see the Year 5 and 6 teams from KSA and Hawford competing, offering a glimpse of the promising talent coming through our prep schools and contributing to a great atmosphere on the day.
ESAA Cross-Country Cup – County Round The cross-country teams from Lower Fourth to Upper Sixth competed in the County Round of the English Schools Athletics Association Cross-Country Cup. This is a team event where pupils earn points for their finishing position and then the points are added together to give the team their place in the competition. The competition started with bright sunshine but cool conditions, perfect cross-country weather. The Junior Girls (Lower and Upper Fourth) delivered a fantastic team performance, with all six runners contributing to a strong result that saw them finish 2nd overall, just five points behind Bromsgrove. The race was highlighted by a commanding run from Helena Cooke, who led from the front and secured a comfortable individual win. The Junior Boys also impressed with a superb team effort, pushing each other throughout the race to secure 2nd place. Their result was boosted by a well-executed strategy from Freddie Preston, who timed his run perfectly to take 1st place.
ESAA Cross Country Cup – Regional Round On Tuesday 5th November, four teams travelled to Bromsgrove School to compete in the ESSA West Central Cross-Country Competition, having qualified from the County Round earlier in the term.
After a team warm-up led by the Senior Boys, the Junior Girls were first to race. All six runners performed strongly, with Helena Cooke finishing 6th in a competitive field. The team placed 7th out of 16 schools, a pleasing result in a tough race. The Junior Boys followed, showing excellent teamwork and determination
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throughout. They finished 5th overall, with Freddie Preston leading the King’s runners and placing 3rd out of 93 competitors thanks to a brilliantly timed run. Next up were the Senior Girls, who impressed with their consistent pace and strong performances in a large field. The team finished 6th, just two points shy of 4th place, and Lucy Tebbett ran superbly to finish 6th individually with an impressive time. Finally, the Senior Boys tackled a demanding 5km course and delivered a solid team performance to finish 7th.
The Inter Girls (Lower and Upper Remove) ran well as a team and finished third, narrowly missing out on qualification for the next round. Sophie Purves produced a standout performance, placing third individually. The Inter Boys showed great determination and teamwork, finishing third overall—just two points behind the runners-up. James Cooke ran an excellent race to claim 2nd place individually. The Senior Girls (Fifth Form – Upper Sixth) faced challenging conditions as torrential rain set in, but they responded brilliantly to take 1st place overall. Lucy Tebbet ran exceptionally well to finish 2nd, a particularly impressive achievement for a Fifth Form student competing against older athletes. The Senior Boys tackled a tough 6km course in difficult weather, but their resilience and strong performances earned them a well-deserved 2nd place finish.
Ben Gooch was the first runner home for King’s, leading the team with a strong effort. Overall, it was a highly positive and impressive day for all our crosscountry athletes. The camaraderie across age groups was fantastic to see, and having multiple runners finish in the top 10 of strong regional fields is a great achievement. Although no teams progressed to the National Finals, all four squads placed in the top half of the competition and should be extremely proud of their efforts.
District Championships
King’s took a large team of over 50 athletes to compete in the Worcester City District Cross-Country Championships on Thursday 5th December at RGS The Grange. The weather conditions were good with the rain holding off but the course was muddy and slippy, which saw numerous athletes slip throughout the races. The first race of the day saw the Lower Fourth boys and girls take to the course. Helena Cooke stormed to victory by a huge margin in a very impressive run. Thomas Exton and George Marley also secured top 4 finishes in the Year 7 Boys’ Race. The Junior Girls’ race saw another dominant victory for King’s with Mea Haffield pipping Katie Challinor for 1st and 2nd place finishes. In the Junior Boys’ race, Freddie Preston finished in 2nd place, showing great pace in a large field. The Inter Girls saw further great performances from the King’s athletes, with Sophie Purves and Lucy Tebbetts finishing in 2nd and 3rd place. The final race of the day saw another commanding victory, with James Cooke controlling the race from start to finish. It was fantastic to see that, once again, King’s took the largest group of athletes to compete and will have the highest number of athletes competing in the County Championships in January, and the School Games Finals for the Lower Fourths in February. Congratulations to all those who have qualified: Lower Fourth Girls: Helena Cooke Lower Fourth Boys: Thomas Exton and George Marley Upper Fourth Girls: Katie Challinor, Cleo Fitton, Ace Dogget, Robyn Duffy, Elsie Sinclair, Charlotte Bailey, Ella Garner and Sienna Dowling Upper Fourth Boys: Freddie Preston and Jack Marley Lower Remove Girls: Mea Haffield Upper Remove and Fifth Form Girls: Sophie Purves, Lucy Tebbett and Ella Purves Upper Remove Boys: James Cooke and Ed Chandler
County Cross-County Championships
King’s took a team of 20 talented athletes to compete in the County Cross-Country Championships held at Bromsgrove School. Each athlete earned their place at this event by qualifying through the Worcester City District Championships before Christmas. The Bromsgrove course provided a challenging and varied test of endurance, attracting some of the best runners from across the county. The day began with the Junior Girls’ race, which featured a tough and highly competitive field. Despite the challenging conditions, all the girls did themselves proud, demonstrating grit and determination throughout the race. A special mention goes to Katie Challinor, who led the King’s team with an impressive performance as the first athlete home for the School. Next came the Junior Boys’ race, which started at a blistering pace. The King’s athletes, however, displayed excellent race tactics, running sensibly and steadily working their way through the field. A standout performance came from Freddie Preston, who finished an outstanding 6th overall. This result is especially impressive as Freddie is eligible to compete in the same age category next season, promising even more success in the future. His finish is expected to secure him a place in the National Finals, set to take place in West Sussex in March. The Inter Girls followed, racing in a highly competitive field of talented runners. All three King’s athletes should be immensely proud of their efforts, as they finished within the top 20 – a remarkable achievement given the calibre of the competition. A special mention goes to Lucy Tebbett, who delivered an exceptional performance to finish within the top 10. The Inter Boys’ race saw the performance of the day from a King’s perspective. James Cooke, who had set himself the goal of a top five finish, exceeded all expectations by claiming the Silver medal. He ran a brilliantly tactical race, gradually working his way through the field and finishing with incredible strength and determination. This outstanding result has guaranteed James a well-deserved place in the National Finals, again very impressive
as he was competing in the Year 10 and Year 11 category. Finally, the Senior Boys tackled the challenging 6km course, which tested both stamina and mental toughness. All three athletes should be immensely proud of their performances on this demanding terrain. Ben Gooch engaged in a thrilling cat-and-mouse battle with a Bromsgrove athlete, ultimately being narrowly edged out in the final stages to finish 9th overall. The following athletes all earnt a place in the National Finals, an excellent achievement: Freddie Preston (JB), James Cooke (IB) and Ben Gooch (SB).
School Games Cross Country Finals Three Lower Fourth pupils qualified for the School Games Cross Country County Championships held at Lakeside yesterday.
In perfect conditions with the sun shining, all pupils were excited to compete in this event. By the first corner, Helena had opened up a 5m lead in the Junior Girls’ race and this just continued to extend throughout, eventually winning by a huge margin. It was fantastic to see such a dominant performance, and she will go through to the National Finals in March. Thomas and George started at the back of the pack in the Junior Boys’ race and worked their way through the field well. George just missed out on a place at Nationals finishing in 9th position and a strong sprint finish from Thomas saw him finish in 16th.
National Year 7 Cross Country
Helena Cooke was selected to compete in the Year 7 National Cross Country Finals held at the National Agricultural and Exhibition Centre in Warwickshire. Helena was selected to represent the Worcestershire Schools team after her win at the County Year 7 champs at Lakeside Campus in February. It was a tough and hilly 3km course and, despite the nerves, she ran very well, moving into the top 10 early on and sitting in the top 5 from the half-way mark. Coming into the last 200m, she was sitting in 4th but, somehow, mustered a final effort to take 3rd place on the day. LMS
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Equestrian
The new academic year began with a fantastic start for the King’s Equestrian Teams, who showcased impressive skill and determination across a variety of competitions and venues. Our riders have proudly represented the school at National School Equestrian Association (NSEA) events, including Rectory Farm, Unicorn Trust, Allens Hill, and Hartpury College. These competitions have provided valuable experience and exposure, with King’s teams achieving a series of strong results and qualifications for future championships. Throughout
the
term
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our
teams
demonstrated outstanding teamwork and resilience. Whether competing in showjumping, dressage or arena eventing, the riders have supported one another and contributed to a positive and encouraging atmosphere. Their collective efforts have resulted in several team placings and qualifications for major events later in the season. We are delighted to share that Sebastian Sargeant has qualified for the NSEA National Championships in October, in the 70cm class. Several members have also secured places at the Grassroots Championships Festival at Hickstead in August. Chloe Turner, Chloe Pointon, Martha and Sebastian achieved a
60cm team qualification, while Chloe Pointon and Bea Bradley qualified as individuals in the 70cm class, and Bea has also qualified individually in the 80cm. Other notable results include an excellent performance from the 50cm team; Martha Sargeant Chloe Pointon and Evie Price achieving 4th place finish early in the season. Additionally, Martha Sargeant, Sebastian Sargeant, Chloe Pointon and Chloe Turner in the 60cm team rode well together to secure 3rd place. While there were no individual placings in the 60cm class, the team’s result is a strong indicator of promise for the future. GMO
Football 1st XI 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18.
Barnaby Blundell Sonny Brown Donal Clason Leo Cunningham Toby Cunningham Matthew Dalton (Vice Captain) Charlie Flood Lucas Field William Mason Matthew Franks Louis Healey-Maddams Louie Lee Zach Mason Oliver Powell (Captain) Mason Ruff Oliver Shotton Theo Stallard Lukas Twiehaus
Coach name: Mr A Holliday The 1st XI football team experienced a season of mixed fortunes, with moments of promise and resilience punctuated by challenges in consistency. Over the course of 23 matches, the team secured eight wins, two draws and 13 losses, reflecting a campaign that was both competitive and developmental. The season kicked off in September, with a strong spell of performances that showcased the team’s potential. During this period, several matches were marked by high energy and tactical discipline. As the season progressed, however, maintaining that level of performance proved difficult,
with some games slipping away due to lapses in concentration or inability to sustain pressure for the full match. Despite these ups and downs, the team made commendable progress in cup competitions. They reached the second round of the ISFA Cup, demonstrating grit and determination against tough opposition. More notably, the team advanced to the semi-final of the County Cup, a significant achievement that highlighted their competitive edge. Unfortunately, they were unable to retain the trophy won in the previous year, but their journey to the last four was a testament to their fighting spirit.
Throughout the season, Louis Lee and Barnaby Blundell stood out as consistent performers, being fit and available for every match. Their contributions were vital in both defensive and midfield roles. Up front, Leo Cunningham emerged as the top goal scorer, providing crucial goals and leading the attacking line. While the results may not have always gone the team’s way, the season offered valuable lessons and moments of pride. With continued development and focus, the 1st XI will look to build on this foundation in the coming year.
Footballers Enjoy Tour to Portugal
Over the Christmas holidays (December 2024), 24 King’s footballers (Fifth Form, Lower Sixth and Upper Sixth) enjoyed a fabulous five-day tour in Portugal, filled with incredible experiences and unforgettable moments.
Off the pitch, the squad explored the beautiful city of Porto, enjoyed fun team bonding activities and experienced a fantastic behind-the-scenes tour of FC Porto’s iconic stadium.
The trip included daily training sessions with FC Porto coaches, as well as several exciting fixtures against local teams where the team showcased their exceptional skill and teamwork.
The group also had the amazing opportunity to watch FC Porto in action. The home side secured a 2-0 win in a Liga Portugal match, moving up to second in the league. It was a thrilling
experience for everyone, and some of our pupils even made friends with the locals – complete with mascot photos to capture the memories! The tour was a fantastic week of football, culture and team spirit. Trip staff: Mr Sarriegui, Mr Holliday and Mr Shone. JS
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U15A Football
Coach name: Mr C Hooman It was a fantastic season for the King’s U15A football team. From start to finish, the boys showed an excellent attitude towards training and matches, always willing to work hard for each other and improve as a team. Ryan Widmer led the team superbly as captain, setting the tone both on and off the pitch. Throughout the season, we maintained our shape with three players in central midfield, which became a real strength. Ryan Widmer, Orey Gaffey, Oli Smith and Barney Danks were all instrumental in dictating our style of play, being composed in possession, disciplined without the ball and quick to press when required. Out wide, Sam Kilbey and Angus Garner provided constant pace and creativity, regularly contributing with goals and assists. Henry also had an excellent term, proving pivotal whether playing as a striker or on the wing, and scoring a number of important goals. Defensively, Ben Adam and Tom Launder were key figures at the back. They were strong, quick and dominant in the air, stopping countless attacks and providing real assurance. Perry had a number of excellent performances in goal, showing bravery and commitment every time he played. Our full backs, Joe Taylor-Edwards, Eisa Imran, Alex Brousas and Guy Maguire, all impressed with their energy and versatility. They were vital in both phases of play, solid defensively while also providing width and support in attack. Across the term, we played 10 matches, winning three, drawing three and losing four. The record does not tell the full story, as many performances were full of quality and effort. We began with a draw against Malvern; a game in which we dominated and created enough chances to have won comfortably. Another standout fixture was against Monmouth, one of the most exciting games I have ever been involved in, with 11 goals shared between the teams. We led 5–4 with just minutes remaining before the game swung again, but it was a great learning experience for the boys. The RGS match was another highlight, finishing 2–2. Sam Kilbey scored a
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sensational goal with a half volley into the top corner, which will be remembered as one of the goals of the season. Once again, we were unlucky to concede a late equaliser after leading 2–1. Overall, I am incredibly proud of the squad. The boys showed real maturity, teamwork and a desire to keep improving. We played an attractive brand of possession-based football and demonstrated strong character throughout. If they continue on this path, I have no doubt we will be seeing many of these players representing the 1st XI team in the near future.
U14A Football
Coach name: Mr C Haywood Two convincing wins against Malvern College and The Chase got the season off to the perfect start for the U14A team, who scored seven and conceded only one goal in their opening fixtures. A defence comprising Ayaan Khan, Ethan Hall, Tom Huband, Nico Calladine, Charles Goodyear and Harry Smith in goal proved not only solid, but also skilful, and frequently provided good attacking options. In midfield, captain Fletcher Kane led with composure and energy and was supported by Finney Boyle-Summers, Sam C, James Rowlands and Eddie Underwood, who together formed a strong and creative unit. Up front, Will Lavarack and Joe Frost consistently troubled opposition defences with their pace and finishing. Following the strong start, the team faced a challenging spell with three defeats against tough opponents.
However, performances remained spirited and competitive, with plenty of positives to take forward. The best performance of the season so far came in a 2–1 victory over RGS, which reignited momentum and set the stage for a dominant finish. The team won their final three matches in style, scoring 22 goals without conceding. The season concluded with a total of six wins and four losses. Joe Frost finished as top goal scorer, while Ethan Hall, Fletcher Kane and Nico Calladine were deservedly named Players of the Season. The U14B team, captained by Tommy Eost, started the season well, with a strong win against Malvern, but faltered in the next few games. The highlight of the season was undoubtedly the 3-0 victory against Pate’s Grammar School, where the team delivered their most complete performance. From the first whistle, the players demonstrated excellent teamwork, moving the ball fluidly and making intelligent passes into space. This match showcased the squad’s potential when they played as a unit rather than relying on individual efforts. The defence remained solid, the midfield controlled the tempo, and the forwards capitalised on chances with clinical finishing. Across all fixtures, the teams’ development was evident. Early matches saw moments of individual skill but, as the season progressed, the emphasis shifted towards collective play. Training sessions focused on positioning, communication, and off-the-ball movement, which paid dividends in later games.
U13A Football
U13B Football
This year, the U13A team began their campaign with a very convincing series of displays against strong opposition, winning each of their first three matches. Their attacking style of play saw them scoring at least four goals a game, with confident individual performances crowning excellent allround team performances.
The U15s enjoyed a solid season, finishing with a record of three wins, one draw and two losses from six matches. With 18 goals scored and 13 conceded, the squad showed attacking flair and a growing confidence in possession.
Coach name: Mr O Shone
Whilst the team played well all season, their standout performance was a show of enormous character to comeback against a very strong Wolverhampton Grammar side. A combination of persistence and creativity ensured hard work the team leave the field to a standing ovation from the assembled crowd. It was testament to the excellent team spirit that the captaincy ‘toured’ the team throughout the season, with each new captain stepping up to guide his team on the pitch. This helped build player development and saw new players taking more responsibility on the pitch as the season progressed. The second half of the season found the team needing to regroup and reassert themselves, which they did with a resounding 14-5 victory against an improving opposition team from Hereford. In all, a season with many highlights and the makings of an exceptional side in place for next year.
Coach name: Mr B Williams
The season began positively, with early victories showcasing excellent teamwork, sharp finishing and strong communication across the pitch. A highlight included a high-scoring performance against Monmouth School, where the side demonstrated clinical play in the final third. A tough test came in the mid-season fixtures, including a narrow loss to a well-organised Christopher Whitehead but the boys responded well with a resilient draw in their next outing. Across the campaign, the team showed real improvement in tactical awareness and composure on the ball. With a +5 goal difference, there’s plenty of encouragement heading into future fixtures. A promising season with strong foundations for continued development.
U12 Football Report Coach: Mr J Sarriegui
This season saw fantastic levels of participation in U12 football, with regular training sessions attended by around 45 boys each week. The enthusiasm and commitment shown by the players was outstanding, and clear progress was made across all teams throughout the year.
The A team played a total of nine competitive matches, securing four wins, two draws and three losses. They competed strongly in every fixture, scoring 14 goals and conceding just eight. Notably, Will Neville and Oliver Hurley were in close competition for the top scorer title, both showing great attacking flair. Henry Robbie and Thomas Exton also delivered consistently solid performances, contributing significantly to the team’s overall success. The B Team also played nine matches, with an impressive record of four wins, three draws and two losses. Their games were high-scoring affairs, with 18 goals scored and 18 conceded. Many players contributed to the goal tally. The C Team had fewer games, playing four matches in total. They achieved two wins, one draw and one loss, showing promising development and strong team spirit. The D Team also played a couple of matches, which provided valuable opportunities for more players to represent the School and gain match experience. This inclusive approach helped foster a sense of belonging and encouraged wider participation. Overall, it has been a highly successful and enjoyable season for U12 football. The players demonstrated excellent commitment, teamwork and sportsmanship across all teams.
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1st XI Hockey Coach name: Mrs L Miller-Symonds 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19.
Ruby Collins (C) Izzy Kavanagh Lottie Kilbey Lilia Mico Frankie Barry Martha Burden Izzy Da Silva Jess Fox Bryony Gillgrass Grace Jansen van Vuuren Olivia Kent Imogen Taft Anna Wales Eleanor Witt Phoebe Webster Eva Mico Poppy Wrout Daisy Fitton Hermoine Pratt
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Hockey This season has been an exciting one, led by a talented and hardworking group of players who consistently rose to every challenge. After a couple of early fixtures where the team adjusted to new combinations and a developing style of play, they quickly found their stride and delivered an impressive season. Across 16 matches, the team recorded 11 wins, two draws, and just three losses, finishing with a superb +31 goal difference. Their consistency and resilience were evident throughout and they became known for their ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure fixtures. The team’s attacking strength was clear in emphatic wins over Trent College (7– 0), Cheltenham Ladies’ College (7–0), and The King’s High School for Girls (8–0), while their defensive discipline helped secure tight victories such as 1–0 against Malvern College and 3-2 win against The Queen’s School Chester. Even in defeat, the team showed grit and determination, particularly in tough matches against Millfield School and Solihull School.
The Severn Shield fixture was a season highlight with a fantastic crowd creating a brilliant atmosphere. The team made a strong start, applying intense pressure on the ball and earning an early goal through dynamic attacking play. Their fluent passing and connections dominated the opening stages, leading to a welldeserved second goal. Throughout the match, they defended with discipline and intensity, effectively managing opposition threats and denying further chances. In the final minutes, they controlled possession confidently to secure victory and become the first winners of the Severn Shield, celebrating the achievement with enthusiastic support from friends, family, and School pupils despite the torrential rain. The commitment, teamwork and skill shown by this group of players throughout the season has made every moment on the pitch a pleasure to be part of. Their collective effort and enthusiasm have shaped a memorable year of hockey. A huge thank you goes to the outstanding Upper Sixth players and we wish them all the very best as they move on to their next chapter.
2nd XI
Coach name: Mrs K Knott The Second Team began their season with challenges, notably the absence of a dedicated goalkeeper. Yet this resilient group of players refused to let that hold them back. From the very first whistle, they showed determination, adaptability and a willingness to step up for one another. Their energy and enthusiasm created a positive team environment and as the weeks progressed, their fitness improved, connections on the pitch strengthened,and a sense of flare began to emerge in their play. Across 13 matches, the squad secured seven strong wins and battled through five tough losses. With 16 goals scored and 27 conceded, the team showed grit in every fixture, defending with determination and attacking with growing confidence. Their ability to bounce back from setbacks and learn from each game was a testament to their character.
Second team hockey was a highlight for me this year. We played some excellent hockey, which was enjoyable and rewarding and each player developed as the season went on. As the season progressed, midfielders worked tirelessly to win back possession and link play with our quick and agile forwards, who brought pace and creativity to the attacking third. The team’s structure became more refined, and their understanding of each other’s playstyle led to more fluid and effective hockey. A highlight fixture came against Malvern St James, where the girls played some of their best hockey of the season. The match became a showcase of passing and movement, with a sound team structure and excellent communication throughout. It was a clear reflection of the progress made in training and the growing understanding between players. A special mention must go to the Upper Sixth girls, who formed a solid wall of defence throughout the season. Week in, week out, they committed
themselves fully to the team, leading by example and showing unwavering determination. Their ability to read the game, intercept play, and carry the ball forward was outstanding and their leadership helped shape the team’s identity. This was a fun and enthusiastic group who made training enjoyable and rewarding. Their energy, humour, and dedication created a positive environment that helped everyone thrive. It has been a pleasure to coach them, and we hope our Upper Sixth leavers continue their hockey journey with the same passion and commitment. The season may have had its ups and downs, but the team’s progress, spirit, and togetherness made it a memorable one. We look forward to building on this success next year.
U15 Hockey
Over the season the team showed remarkable grit and responsibility, achieving numerous wins and steadily improving their performance. Their journey through three rounds of the IHSC Cup, culminating in a loss on penalties after a great game, highlighted their progress and determination.
U14A & B Hockey
Coach name: Miss P Sanders U14A team enjoyed an exceptional season. Transitioning from 7-a-side to 11-a-side hockey can be challenging, but this group adapted with enthusiasm and commitment. Although learning new tactics and positional play took time, the girls’ eagerness to improve and their consistent efforts in training across both terms paid off. Dominant performances in Saturday fixtures reflected their growing confidence and skill. The highlight of the season came in the Schools Championship: after a tough loss to RGS Worcester, the team progressed through to the Plate competition. They defeated Marlborough, Redmaid’s, Bromsgrove and Solihull to reach the final which was held at the Lee Valley Hockey
Centre. There, they produced a fantastic team performance to beat The Perse School, 2-0, and making history for School, with a truly memorable victory. It was an excellent season for this special group of players. It would not have been possible without such a big squad, with everyone playing their part in the team performance. The U14B team, faced a series of challenging fixtures but approached every match with determination, teamwork and a strong desire to improve. Throughout the term their skills and understanding of the game
developed significantly, supported by their hard work and enthusiasm at training. With a large and committed squad, their progress was clear to see. They played their matches in the right spirit, demonstrating resilience and a genuine enjoyment for the sport. Both teams’ positive attitude on and off the pitch made them excellent representatives of the School’s hockey programme.
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U13 Hockey
Coach name: Mrs K Collins The U13 Girls have enjoyed an absolutely incredible hockey season, one that will be remembered for years to come. The squad’s hard work, commitment and exceptional team spirit have been the driving forces behind a string of outstanding achievements — including reaching two National Finals in both the Independent Schools Hockey Cup (ISHC) and the England Hockey In2Hockey National Finals. With nearly 30 girls regularly attending after-school training each week, the enthusiasm and depth within the group have been outstanding. The players’ willingness to learn and push themselves has led to significant progress throughout the season, both individually and as a team. The U13A team has been particularly impressive, playing 13 matches outside of tournaments and finishing with an extraordinary goal difference of +34. Their skill, determination, and teamwork were evident throughout, producing some thrilling hockey along the way. A major highlight came at the Regional Finals, where they displayed composure and quality hockey to beat a strong Repton School side in the final, securing their
place at the England Hockey National Finals — where they went on to finish an impressive 5th in the country. Their journey didn’t stop there. The U13As made history by becoming the first ever King’s School, Worcester team to reach the cup finals of the Independent Schools Hockey Cup (ISHC). The girls played superbly throughout the tournament, showing resilience and class and despite being
U12 Hockey
Coach name: Mrs L Miller-Symonds and Miss P Sanders The U12 girls have enjoyed a fantastic introduction to hockey this year, showing great enthusiasm, teamwork and commitment throughout all the teams. With consistently large numbers attending training, it was wonderful to see so many pupils eager to learn and develop their skills. The season provided opportunities for a wide range of players to represent the school across multiple teams, as well as to experience tournament hockey alongside regular weekly fixtures. The pupils listened carefully to coaching points, showed an excellent understanding of tactics and
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applied what they learned in matches with growing confidence and maturity. A particular highlight of the season was the Lower Years Christmas Tournament, which captured the festive spirits perfectly and showcased the girls progress and enjoyment of the game. The group included both experienced players and those picking up a hockey stick for the first time. With so much potential and such a positive attitude, this talented year group has made a hugely encouraging start to their hockey journey at King’s.
narrowly defeated by an exceptional Surbiton High School side in the final, it was a performance to be immensely proud of. This season has highlighted the talent and depth within the U13 girls’ hockey programme at King’s. The players should be incredibly proud of all they have achieved — their passion, teamwork, and commitment have set the bar high for future years.
Netball
T
his year has marked an exciting new chapter for netball at King’s, and I’ve felt incredibly privileged to lead the programme in my first year as Head of Netball. The aim of the programme is to reduce the gap between potential and performance, while ensuring netball remains accessible, inclusive and enjoyable for all pupils. We began the season with a senior pre-season trip to Condover Hall, where players pushed themselves on and off the court through teambuilding activities, workshops and an inspirational session with England and Loughborough Lightning’s Beth Cobden. Over the course of the season, our 22 teams played an incredible 169 fixtures. I was so proud to see every pupil across the age groups develop through their motivation and dedication to the programme. Beyond results, it’s been especially rewarding to see so many students reconnect with netball, and to witness the outstanding commitment to training across the board. We expanded competitive opportunities for our B, C, and D teams across all year groups, ensuring more players could put their learnings into practice against a range of opposition. New additions to the programme this year also included more
frequent shooting clubs and focused unit workshops, helping players to develop position-specific skills. Furthermore, our Strength and Conditioning programme has been tailored to netball-specific movements and personalised to meet the individual needs of each pupil. Alongside this, the introduction of performance analysis has supported more focused feedback and individual development across the squads. Standout achievements included the U16s being crowned Regional Champions and finishing in the top 10 nationally at the England Netball Schools Finals. Additionally, the U14s showed great resilience to reach Regionals after finishing runners-up at County level. Our squads within our Lower Years performed brilliantly, with both the U12A and U12B teams crowned District Champions. We also had strong runs in national competitions, with the U13A reaching the Sister in Sport Plate semi-finals and the U19A making the final 16. A huge part of our growth has been the focus on leadership, with pupils stepping up to support junior teams through the Netball Leadership Group, Sports Leaders elective, and DofE volunteering. Inter-house competitions
brought great energy to the end of term, and the Staff vs Leavers match, decided by a single goal, was the perfect way to wrap up the season. We’ve also begun building long-term pathways through exciting partnerships with Loughborough Lightning and Birmingham Panthers, where I continue to coach the U15 national squad, who secured 4th place in their first year. That link will now expand to support emerging U12 talent locally. I’m also incredibly proud that 24 of our pupils were selected to represent their county and/or franchise programmes this season. An outstanding achievement that reflects their talent and hard work! Finally, one of my favourite experiences of the year was the South Africa Netball and Hockey Tour. Beyond exposure to different playing styles, it was a chance for players to connect on a deeper level. From safari game drives to helicopter rides and visiting community foundations, it was an unforgettable experience for everyone involved. Looking ahead, I’m excited to keep building a programme rooted in passion, growth, and opportunity. The foundations are now firmly in place, and I can’t wait to see what the next chapter holds. ALC
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1st Team Netball
2nd Netball
This season has been a thrilling journey for our First Team, full of growth, determination, and memorable moments. The pupils competed in every game, testing their opposition and consistently putting their heart onto the court, throwing everything into each match. They had to quickly learn new on-court roles and structures, showing control and patience in attack, as well as pressure and resilience in defence. Throughout the year, they trained hard, shared plenty of laughs and consistently showed that they had each other’s backs both on and off the court. The squad also included U16s who were given the opportunity to step up, and they rose to the occasion brilliantly, linking seamlessly with the more experienced members, who supported them tremendously.
The 2nd Team have had a brilliant season. With a mixture of Upper Sixth, Lower Sixth and Fifth Form students, they quickly built new combinations and developed into a strong, cohesive side. Throughout the year they have shown great strength, depth, and versatility, with every player making outstanding progress from start to finish. This improvement is a testament to their commitment to training, positive attitudes, motivation, and determination.
Coach Name: Miss A Cox
We enjoyed numerous close fixtures, keeping our games exciting for spectators, and the team’s resilience was evident in every match. Over the season, we learnt not only to stay in the game but also to maintain momentum, ensuring we competed at our best from start to finish. The season culminated in the annual Superball event against RGS, where the girls applied relentless pressure, adapted seamlessly to every scenario, and demonstrated great bravery and tactical awareness throughout the match. The First Team has truly set the tone for the new netball programme, establishing a culture built on resilience, perseverance, and teamwork. Their dedication and effort this season serve as an inspiration to all aspiring players. A Cox
Coach Name: Miss L Herdman
The team has put out consistently good performances week in week out and recorded many excellent results, one of the highlights being the Superball fixture against RGS 2nd team. In an extremely close contest, they displayed incredible grit, composure, and resilience, supported passionately by teammates and the crowd, and ultimately emerged victorious. It has been a joy to coach this group. I am immensely proud of what they have achieved collectively as a team and, even more importantly, of the growth they have shown as individual players and people.
3rd IX Netball
This season has been a rewarding journey for our Third Team, marked by perseverance, development, and plenty of memorable moments. From the very first match, the pupils committed themselves wholeheartedly, showing determination in defence, patience in attack, and a growing confidence in every position on court. Training sessions were full of energy and good humour, and it was a pleasure to see the group come together as a cohesive and supportive squad. The standout moment of the season was undoubtedly the victory over RGS Worcester in March. That performance captured the true spirit of the team; resilient under pressure, composed in attack, and relentlessly competitive to the final whistle. It was a deserved win and a highlight that will be remembered fondly. Throughout the year, players showed great versatility, often stepping into unfamiliar roles and embracing the challenge with determination. They consistently supported one another, bouncing back from setbacks and demonstrating the value of teamwork
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and perseverance. Their growth across the season was clear - not just in their play, but in their confidence and belief as athletes. The Third Team can be very proud of their achievements this year. Their dedication, resilience and enthusiasm have laid strong foundations for future squads and reflect the positive culture developing across netball at King’s.
U15 Netball
Coach: Miss P Sanders This strong group of girls demonstrated exceptional teamwork, dedication and a real love for their netball throughout both terms. With healthy competition for places in the squad, players continually pushed each other to improve, showing great versatility across all positions. Each match built on success of the last, with solid defensive play making it difficult for opponents to score, while the mid-court players linked attack and defence seamlessly. The shooters showed consistent improvement game after game, giving the team a vital edge. Despite a narrow loss in the third round of the Sisters in Sport Netball competition, the season was an excellent display of commitment and progress. The U15B team approached every match with enthusiasm, teamwork, and a joyful spirit. Although the results didn’t always go their way, their performances were full of determination and closely contested right to the final whistle. The girls showed great resilience, fighting spirit and a genuine enjoyment for playing netball alongside their friends. They embodied the true spirit of school sport, positive attitude, supporting each other and always striving to improve. Both teams have been a pleasure to coach, and it has been inspiring to watch them grow over the course of the year.
U14 Netball
The U14 netball squad has had a great season, marked by determination, teamwork and a fantastic commitment to training. One of the highlights of the year was the U14A team’s victory at the district tournament in October, showcasing not only their skill but also their ability to stay composed under pressure. Their performance at the county level was also impressive, winning three of their games and holding their own against strong opposition. These achievements reflect the team’s grit and resilience, qualities that have been evident in every match played. It has also been incredibly encouraging to see such strong attendance at training sessions throughout the year. The enthusiasm and dedication of the players have allowed us to consistently field both A and B teams, giving more girls the opportunity to play competitively and develop their game. Across the season, all players have made noticeable progress in both their technical skills and their understanding of the game. The spirit, perseverance, and sportsmanship shown by this group of girls have made it a truly memorable season, and we look forward to seeing what they achieve next.
U13A-D Netball
It has been an outstanding season for the U13 netball teams, marked by strong numbers and impressive commitment from our students, many of whom balanced busy co-curricular schedules alongside their netball. We made a conscious effort to accommodate these commitments, ensuring that pupils could fully engage in both their academic and wider school interests without compromising their netball development. Our large turnout allowed us to field A–D teams, meaning that every student in the year group had the opportunity to represent the school competitively. From the outset, a strong focus was placed on instilling the core foundations of the game and building an understanding of what purposeful, high-quality training looks like. As the season progressed, it became clear that the girls were learning that the effort they put in directly impacted their performance and, in turn, the overall intensity and energy at training lifted significantly.
Netball has been the best part of my year. I had never played before joining Lower Fourth and now I love the sport! There were, of course, disappointments along the way, but these proved to be powerful motivators. The resilience shown was exceptional, with students regularly attending short break clubs as entire squads to refine their skills and support one another. This team-first mindset became a defining feature of the U13 cohort. A particular highlight was the U13A team’s fantastic run to the semi-finals of the Sisters in Sport Plate competition. A testament to the hard work and dedication shown throughout the season. Across all teams, the willingness to learn and develop has been unwavering. The progress made is something each player should be proud of, and we look forward to seeing this cohort continue to grow in confidence and capability in the seasons ahead.
U12 Netball
Coach name: Miss G Ormandy and Mrs C Neville The U12As made excellent progress this season. Participating in friendly mid-week and Saturday fixtures as well as in Cup competitions and the District tournament. The girls developed their skills as players showing versatility in different positions on court. The U12Bs have had a storming year. We have had depth and versatility in the squad and it has been such a pleasure to see the girls grow in confidence and be willing to challenge themselves. The highlight of the year was winning the District competition. Well done, girls! The U12Cs have continued to work on their court awareness and develop their confidence with both their attacking and defensive game. It has been a pleasure to see many of these girls playing in several B team fixtures too. It must also be celebrated that all Lower Fourth girls had the opportunity to play in fixtures during their Friday games afternoons. A standout afternoon against Bromsgrove School saw girls playing in teams A-F.
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Rowing The King’s School Worcester Boat Club Captains: Amelia Venables, Jude Austin Vice-captains: Rebecca Nosworthy, Harry Waters Keeper of Boats: Josh Lavarack
K
ing’s has enjoyed another exciting and rewarding year in the rowing world. The early part of the season saw an enthusiastic group of Lower Removes taking their first tentative strokes in a new sport, ably assisted by their mentors. Meanwhile, the older rowers went about developing their technical prowess and mileage on the water and rowing machines. As the nights drew in and winter approached, our indoor rowing programme went up a notch in preparation for the major indoor competitions. We fielded a large entry for the British Indoor Rowing Championships, with rowers from Lower Remove to Upper Sixth, they returned with a bag of medals. An individual gold from Florence Venables and a nail-biting race in the mixed relay yielded another British Championship to the impressive tally at this event over the years, along with four podium positions in the boys and mixed relays. We also hosted another highly successful indoor event of our own which grows in stature and popularity. Head racing was highly successful; alongside may wins and placings, we were able to enter enormous fields in many events, with two trailer loads for the West Midlands Championships. We celebrated qualifying eight boats for the Junior Inter Regional Regatta, an enviable number for any school. Highly successful camps in Seville for our older rowers and at Radley College for the Removes, propelled the squads into some brilliant performances across the summer regatta season. The OV rowing community remains a strong presence in the Boat Club family, and it is wonderful to see so many OVs racing with their universities and clubs, featuring at major events and taking time to talk to
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our rowers. Many continue to inspire our pupils encouraging them, coming to the charity row and mixing at events. It was, of course, wonderful to see Luke Beever winning the Boat Race and Alice Baker crowned World Champion again. We also had the opportunity to honour former coach and honorary OV Bob Hinds by naming a boat in his memory. Our Charity Challenge this year raised over £7000 for Worcestershire Breast Unit Haven, a sensational amount and indicative of the support and warmth of the rowing community.
This year we welcomed Mr Herbert to the coaching team, but the end of the season saw the departure of Miss Simon. She has taken a role at Westminster School, while she continues her studies, we sincerely thank her for her input and wish her the very best. We must thank all the staff for their incredible input in providing such an amazing experience for our rowers and to everyone involved ensuring our vibrant and incredible community continues to thrive, as it heads towards its sesquicentenary. JHC
Senior Boys
Coach: Mr Chalmers The 2024–25 season marked another year of development, commitment and strong performances for the Senior Boys squad at King’s School Worcester Boat Club. Building on momentum from the Autumn Term, the squad entered 2025 with renewed determination and clear intent to compete at the highest level across the domestic rowing circuit.
Senior Boys Most Improved Rower Senior Boys Rower of the Year
Felix Tunnell Harry Waters
The season got off to a strong start for the Senior Boys as we competed at the British Rowing Indoor Championships. The team amassed an enormous haul of medals over the days racing. Luke Mein came away with the Bronze medal in the individual 500 metre event with Josh Lavarack in the top 10. Harry Waters made the top 10 in the 2000 metre event. Luke then combined with Bentley Lawrence and Amelia and Florence Venables to win the British Title in the mixed relay and Charlie Mitchell-Wise and Harry Waters took the Bronze medal. Josh Lavarack and Tom Watson secured a Silver medal, while Elliot Baird, Tom Phillips, Fin Irwin and Jude Austin secured a Bronze in the boys’ relay event. The season continued at Wycliffe Big Head in February, where King’s fielded multiple senior crews against strong opposition. Despite challenging, wintery conditions, the First Eight demonstrated promising earlyseason form in their debut on the water, laying down competitive times and showcasing improved rhythm and technical cohesion developed through the winter training block. The Championship Quad of Josh, Elliott, Harry and Jack Dowty won the Open Men’s Quad Scull, ensuring another pennant for the boathouse. At the West Midlands Championships, the squad continued their upward trajectory, securing strong placings across many categories such as the champ and second quads as well as the eight and reaffirming their standing as one of the region’s top school programs. The culmination of the head season saw great performances at the Schools’ Head and then a brilliant fifth place for the Championship Quad at Junior Sculling Head, setting the scene for an exciting Easter training camp and the regatta season ahead.
The transition to side-by-side racing bought success at Shrewsbury and Worcester Regattas in small boats with a clean sweep for the singles at Shrewsbury. The National Schools’ Regatta was held at the National Water Sports Centre this year and promised to demonstrate the determination and depth across boats. The champ quad and four raced with maturity and poise in one of the most competitive fields of the season bringing home promising results, but Sunday’s racing was cancelled as the weather deteriorated on Saturday. The highlight was the performance of our Championship Coxed Four of Jude Austin, Tom Watson, Luke Mein, Bentley Lawrence and Joseph Murray, progressing confidently through the heats and delivering aggressive, composed performances in the side-byside racing. A place in the A Final was secure, and they ultimately placed sixth in the country. Momentum continued to build through Marlow Regatta, where the squad’s commitment to continuous improvement was evident. Their racing
displayed both speed and cohesion, cementing King’s Worcester’s presence among strong opposition and underlining the effectiveness of the season’s training program as the eight really started to find its legs going into Henley. The highlight of the year came with the crew’s campaign at the Henley Royal Regatta Qualifiers, where they produced one of their best performances of the season. Against an incredibly competitive opposition, the Senior Boys delivered a technically refined and spirited row, demonstrating the club’s hallmark resilience and unity. Though narrowly missing out on qualification, their effort represented significant progress and set a high benchmark for the coming season. As the 2024–25 season concluded, the Senior Boys can be proud of their development — from winter head races to the final sprint at Henley. Their progress stands as a testament to their dedication and the support of the coaching team. Luke Mein
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Senior Girls
Coach: Mr W Bird Season 2024-25 was one to be remembered fondly. Early in the season, the focus soon swung from the river to indoor events as the nights drew in. The British Indoor Rowing Championships saw Amelia Venables crowned champion when she combined with her sister and the boys in the mixed relay, Rebecca Nosworthy and Jess Meci took the Bronze medal in the same event. The squad won numerous medals at the King’s Indoor Rowing Championships as they emerged from the Christmas break. Returning to the water for the West Midlands Championships, the Coxed Four of Jasmine Shukla, Sophie Evans, Emelia Simpkin, Jess and Emily Andrews secured Gold, as did the pair
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Senior Girls Most Improved Rower Senior Girls Rower of the Year of Amelia and Rebecca, starting a trend that was to continue in the regional events. The head season culminated in an exciting experience racing down the Thames during the Schools’ Head of the River. Coming into regatta season, the Girls Pair came fourth in the women’s challenge event final at Wallingford Regatta at Dorney Lake. Closer to home, we saw a win for the pair at Worcester as well as a win in the WJ18 four. Despite the unfortunate cancellation of the Sunday racing at National Schools’ Regatta, the crews on Saturday took to the water with the girls’ coxed four coming 3rd in the C Final. Heading back to Dorney
Sophie Evans Rebecca Nosworthy for the Metropolitan Regatta meant our coxed four consisting of Amelia, Rebbeca, Emily, Emelia and Sophie competed in the academic fours race against university and senior women, where they came eighth in their time trial and 2nd in their B Final. This result placed them first overall among the WJ18 coxed fours attending. The Senior Girls coxed four then travelled down to Henley to compete for a place in the Henley Women’s Regatta. The crew fell just short of qualification but enjoyed the experience immensely, as they did in forming an eight for Henley Royal Regatta Qualifiers. Emelia Simpkin
Fifth Form Boys
Fifth Form Boys Most Improved Rower Fifth Form Boys Rower of the Year
George Gamble Freddie Barwise
The J16 boys had an excellent season last year under the amazing coaching of Miss Simon, continuing their development as they undergo their rowing career at King’s. This year marked the pivotal transition between becoming a confident rower and learning how to become a proper athlete. There have been significant improvements in both strength and technique, which contributed to some notable results this year and will continue to serve us well in the future.
Fifth Form Girls Most Improved Rower Fifth Form Girls Rower of the Year
Merri Levett Ava Town
Coach: Miss D Simon
While the season began with the challenge of adverse weather conditions, the squad performed well at Wycliffe having had limited time on the water in the Autumn Term. This was followed by a victory in the J16 8+ at Worcester Head, which came as a surprise to a squad who had had limited experience in sweeping from the previous year. The quads also performed well, securing high placings against some strong and competitive opposition. This success early on, set a robust foundation for the demanding season ahead. Next on the agenda was the qualifying event for the Junior Inter-Regional Regatta, West Midlands Junior Rowing Championships held in Hereford. The squad performed superbly, which enabled selection to represent the West Midlands in the 2x, 2- and 1x events at the JIRR in Nottingham. Freddie Barwise and Lucas Copley impressed with a win in the 2x B Final, while the 3 other crews gained valuable experience at a national level, particularly in the pair who raced for the first time having only started in that boat class at the beginning of the year. Fortunately, both the A and B Quad entered the Junior Sculling Head held at Dorney Lake this year, marking the start to a tremendous season at high-level national events. The A Quad also produced a commendable performance at the Junior Sculling Regatta, taking 7th in the time trial which meant they were seeded into the B Final where they took 3rd place. The start of the Summer began with Worcester Spring Regatta, which saw an exciting race between the A and B Quadruple Sculls, with the A Quad taking victory despite it being a close race! The Summer marked the beginning of the GCSE exam
leave for the entirety of the squad, right in the height of regatta season. Unfortunately, the squad’s momentum into the National Schools’ Regatta was halted when poor weather conditions forced the cancellation of all racing on the Sunday, denying the three quads their chance to test their unwavering commitment to rowing during their exams at the country’s biggest junior stage with over 5000 rowers. The boys competed in the Marlow Regatta also held at Dorney Lake where they raced alongside J18 crews in the time trial, before progressing to the F Final and achieving a stunning 3rd place, which saw them ranked seventh nationally out of all J16 crews who raced that day. The year culminated with the King’s Regatta, where the squad took part in some fun racing among the Sixth Form and Old Vigornians in the infamous ‘Crazy Eights’ event. As well as continued success on the water, the J16 Boys also had an eventful year indoors with top results at the British Indoor Rowing Championships and King’s Indoor Rowing Championships. Medals were won at both events, including Freddie Barwise taking Bronze in the Year 11 boys 500m and Josh Lavarack and Tom Watson (both Upper Sixth) and Freddie Barwise and Freddie Goodwin taking Silver in the Boys’ Relay. Perhaps one of the greatest highlights of the year was the annual Boat Club Charity Row, with this year being the first time staying overnight. This was a testament to the squad’s gains of endurance throughout the demanding winter training indoors. The Boat Club rowed one million Meters, raising money for Worcestershire Breast Unit Haven. It has been a season of constant improvement and encouraging results for the J16 Boys. The experience gained across numerous head races, regional events and national regattas will stand them in excellent stead as they look ahead to the challenges of senior rowing in the Sixth Form, the next stage of their rowing career. This would not have been possible without the selfless commitment and guidance of the coaching team, with the rich experience and knowledge of
Miss Simon and the supervision and support of the Head of Rowing, Mr Chalmers, which proved pivotal in the boys’ development. This year marked the final year of Miss Simon’s two-year period of coaching at King’s Rowing, before she went on to continue her own journey as an amazing coach. It has proved to be another outstanding year, and we are looking forward collectively to what next year brings. Oliver Young and Freddie Barwise
Fifth Form Girls
Coach: Mr R Herbert The Fifth Form girls worked tirelessly throughout the season to improve their rowing, by completing challenging erg training and long water sessions. We started the indoor rowing season off by competing at British Rowing Indoor Championships, with Merri Levett taking on the challenge of the individual 500 metre effort, placing a fantastic 7th in the event, as well as combining in the team relay races with others. After Christmas, two crews competed at Wycliffe Big Head, achieving 9th and 10th in the WJ16 coxless quad, raced over 4500 metres on the GloucesterSharpness Canal. This was followed up by an impressive 4th place at Worcester Head of the River in the WJ16 4x-. The West Midlands Championships saw a 4th place for the quad of Merri, Rumaysa Imran, Emily Elsdon and Ava Town as well as being the first chance for the pair of Emily and Issy Smith to race. The pair was selected to represent King’s and The West Midlands at the Junior Inter Regional Regatta after Easter. The pair raced superbly well coming 5th in the A Final, proving their hard work had paid off in the first year of sweeping. Inclement weather unfortunately meant the cancellation of our event at the National Schools’ Regatta. Merri was able to join the Sixth Form for the eight at Henley Qualifiers, to complete the season. The season also saw great improvement within the land training, especially our 2k scores which we worked on throughout the year. Emily Elsdon
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Upper Remove Boys Coach: Mr J Hemming
The Upper Remove boys enjoyed a busy and successful rowing season, highlighted by some strong performances on the water.
Upper Remove Boys Most Improved Rower Upper Remove Boys Rower of the Year
Perry Aylward Nathan Shukla
Upper Remove Girls Most Improved Rower Upper Remove Girls Rower of the Year
Izzy Wood Florence Venables
Worcester Head of the River was a day to remember, with the squad showing its depth with the A boat placing first, C boat placing second and B boat placing fourth across the quad events — a superb achievement which demonstrated the strength, commitment and team spirit of the squad. The West Midlands Championships rewarded Ed Chandler a place to represent the region at the Junior Inter Regional Regatta, whilst the quad of Ed, Oscar Slevin, Nathan Shukla, Hugo McDonagh and Jinc Ling missed out by the narrowest of margins.
while sharpening their technique and cohesion. The camp also gave the boys the chance to bond as a squad, with highlights including the now-famous talent show on the final night. It was an invaluable week that provided the perfect springboard into the busy racing calendar that followed.
Later in the season came the Removes’ Rowing Camp at Radley College, which proved to be a real turning point for the squad. Training on the Thames in excellent conditions, the crews logged countless miles
The benefits of camp were soon evident at The Stratford Regatta, where the boys’ coxed quad of Jinc Ling, Perry Aylward, Hugo Benvie, Patrick Dowsett and Alessio Morville were in a class of their own, sculling confidently through
each round before securing a victory in the final. This was also shown in the Junior Sculling Regatta at Dorney Lake on 5th May, where the Upper Remove boys’ coxed quad placed ninth in their time trial and went on to finish third in their final, rounding off a competitive day against strong opposition from across the country. The National Schools’ Regatta was a culmination of the year’s efforts, and it was terrific to see our three crews taking top places in their respective finals in the first and second coxed quad scull events. Nathan Shukla
Upper Remove Girls Rowing Coach: Mrs P Bladen
The J15 girls rowing team have enjoyed an exceptional year, on and off the water, showing dedication, teamwork, and great promise throughout a packed racing calendar. The season began with success at the British Rowing Indoor Championships, where Florence Venables claimed Gold in the Year 10 Girls 500m, combining with Sixth Formers to take another British title in the mixed relay. On the river, the girls started strongly at the Wycliffe Big Boats Head, battling through harsh conditions, finishing fourth in a competitive field. Momentum continued to build in March, with impressive results at the West Midlands Junior Championships, where Florence and Henrietta Venables won the double scull, and the J16 quad of Evie Gwilliam, Izzy Wood, Henrietta and Florence, with Oliver Cartwright coxing, also took first place. Later that month, the WJ15 crew produced superb performances at the Junior Sculling Head, with the A Quad finishing seventh and the B quad (Annie Baird,
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Grace Muir, Hattie Timmis, Melissa Dehmas and Olivia Evans) also battling it out over the Championship Course on Dorney Lake. During the Easter break, the girls took part in a training camp at Radley College, enjoying good weather and long sessions, rowing on the Thames. The week saw them cover many miles, working hard as crew units and preparing for the busy summer ahead. The camp concluded with a lively talent show, where the J15 girls delivered a standout performance that captured their team spirit perfectly. At the Junior Inter-Regional Regatta, the crew impressed in the time trial to reach the A Final, where just one second separated second to fifth place in a thrilling finish. Their determination carried through into the Junior Sculling Regatta at Dorney Lake, where the coxed quad placed seventh in the time trial before finishing second in the final, despite tough conditions. A week later, they rose
to the occasion at the Shrewsbury Regatta, racing with confidence in front of large crowds and glorious sunshine. June proved a highlight of the season. At the Stratford Junior Sprint Regatta, the J15 girls sculled smoothly through each round to achieve victory in the final. Soon after, at the National Schools’ Regatta, the first J15 quad of Evie, Izzy, Henrietta, Florence, and cox Bluebell Murton, delivered a fantastic performance to finish 3rd in the B Final after a demanding 2000m race. The season concluded at the Worcester Spring Regatta, where Florence won her single scull and Izzy and Grace Muir captured the double sculls title, rounding off the year in style. It has been a season full of achievement, progress, and camaraderie. The J15 girls have demonstrated remarkable commitment to each other and to the sport, setting a strong foundation for continued success in the years ahead. Henrietta Venables and Florence Venables
Lower Remove Boys Most Improved Rower Lower Remove Boys Rower of the Year
Guy Riddell Ed Sydenham
Lower Remove Girls Most Improved Rower Lower Remove Girls Rower of the Year Lower Remove Girls Coxwain of the Year
Imogen Bramble Anya Rawnsley Zofia Waites
Lower Remove Boys
Lower Remove Girls
The Lower Remove boys had a great year, both on and off the water. We started strongly with indoor performances and relishing the opportunity to take part in the British Rowing Indoor Championships at the NEC, where we were hot on the heels of the Upper Remove boys in the relays just outside the medals. The King’s Indoor Rowing Championships saw the squad accomplish several wins and plenty of medals in individual and team relays. It was terrific to be involved in the Annual Charity Challenge in the Boathouse.
The 2024/25 season has been an exceptional and rewarding year for the J14 Girls Rowing Squad. For many members, it marked their first experience of competitive rowing, yet the progress made, both technically and as a team, has been remarkable. Across two winter competitions and six summer regattas, the squad demonstrated impressive commitment, resilience and sportsmanship. Highlights of the year included multiple victories at the Stratford and Worcester Regattas, a memorable win at Regionals where the coxed quad of Imogen Bramble, Henrietta Hogg, Hermione Hogg, Anya Rawnsley and Zofia Waites were crowned West Midlands Champions and earned the honour of representing the region at the Junior Inter-Regional Regatta. They achieved an excellent eleventh place finish overall at this prestigious event. The season concluded triumphantly with the retention of the King’s vs Shrewsbury School Cup, following another strong performance from the girls. Beyond the results, rowing this year has been a truly formative experience, teaching the value of teamwork, perseverance and friendship. The camaraderie within the squad has been exceptional, and the friendships forged through early morning training sessions and long regatta days will undoubtedly last for many years to come. A particular highlight was the Easter Rowing Camp at Radley College, which provided an invaluable opportunity to train on new waters, refine technique, and learn from experienced coaches in an inspiring environment. It was an unforgettable experience that strengthened both skill and team spirit. Overall, the season has been one of outstanding achievement, personal growth, and lasting friendship, thanks to our coaches Mr Booth, Mr Gibson and Mr Emsley. The squad looks forward to building on this success as they move into J15s. Henrietta Hogg and Hermione Hogg
Coaches: Mr T Sharp, Mr R Gibson and Mr A Emsley
Once we hit the water, we took part in the head race at Hereford and in regattas at Worcester, Shrewsbury and Stratford. We’d like to say our results were mixed, but that might be a bit too generous! The events have certainly provided a foundation to our time in rowing and an incentive to develop for the future. The highlight of the year was our Easter camp at Radley College, the food was great and the facilities ideal for some extensive training on the River Thames – of course what happens at Rowing Camp stays at Rowing Camp, but let’s just say that they hadn’t even left the landing stage… The year also brought our first taste of the Boat Club Quiz, the Boat Drive and the Boat Club Dinner – all great experiences that helped to build team spirit. Huge thanks to our coaches, Mr Sharp, Mr Gibson and Mr Emsley for getting us started and to all the coaches for providing so many amazing opportunities. Ed Sydenham
Coaches: Mr R Booth, Mr R Gibson and Mr A Emsley
Senior Rowing Camp
In the first week of the Easter break, 44 of our Senior Rowers (Fifth and Sixth Form) travelled to Seville, Spain, for an intensive training camp and to study. We were hosted by the prestigious Club Náutico Sevilla and stayed in a nearby hostel. The accommodation provided the Upper Sixth with their usual shenanigans as they filled a paddling pool, testing the structural integrity of the balconies. The club’s facilities were superb, including a vast stretch of river with many sights along the way. This tested the rowing steering ability to the extreme! With kayaks, paddleboards and local rowers alike spanning the width of the river, it caused many last moment decisions to narrowly avoid crashes with boats just passing inches from our blades as we rushed in opposite directions. The conditions were excellent, with warm, bright weather and suncream running low by the end, whilst each crew trekked well over 100km across the 14 sessions completed. The rowers made terrific use of the opportunity to finetune technical points and prepare themselves for the summer regattas. Rowers across both sweeping and sculling disciplines trained in their finalised crews, taking advantage of each session, alongside using the downtime to revise for upcoming exams. An unexpected interruption in training arrived when a massive cruise ship caused the drawbridge on our way to the club to divide, leaving us stranded in the road for 30 minutes and waving to the passersby. The interruptions continued when apocalyptic tropical rainfall banished us indoors, soaking kit to everyone’s delight. We spent an afternoon in the city of Seville to experience and enjoy the local culture and many ice creams, after some great racing at our camp regatta. The last evening showcased the theatrical brilliance (or lack of) of the squads along with the traditional camp prizes. It was a truly great week for all the rowers and staff. Tom Phillips, Jasmine Shukla and Bentley Lawrence
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Rugby 2nd XV Rugby
Coach name: Mr C Wilson
Pre-season training took place at Mount St Mary’s College and proved to be a highly successful three-day camp. It was fantastic to see new joiners and players from three different year groups come together, showing great commitment and work ethic throughout. The squad made an impressive start to the season, delivering excellent performances that led to victories over Solihull, Bloxham, and STR in our Saturday block fixtures, along with
1st XV Rugby
Coach name: Mr J Mason 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22.
Will Mason (Captain) Matt Franks (VC) Charlie Mason Will Dorrell Charlie Sheppard Flynn Hatfield-Evans Dan Arridge Will Tucker Ben Herbert Felix Forrester Henry Horsfall Isaac Blasdale Charlie Flood Alex Probert Sam Edwards Harry Press Henry Hawes Joe Dowling Fred Tomlinson Ollie Yip Elliot Heppenstall Dash Hingley
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two Cup wins against Hereford and Solihull. In the Cup competition, we faced a formidable Warwick side in the last 32. The team played some outstanding rugby in what was a closely contested match that could have gone either way. As is often the case at this level, a few small moments proved decisive in what was a superb showcase of schoolboy rugby. Despite the disappointment of that result, the squad went on to enjoy one of the strongest seasons in recent King’s history, recording just one loss in regular fixtures and securing notable wins against schools such as Monmouth School. As has become tradition, our final match of the season was against RGS Worcester at Sixways Stadium, played in front of over 3,000 spectators. The team entered the game with confidence, hoping to build on the impressive win from the previous year. Unfortunately, challenging weather conditions made it difficult to play the expansive, freeflowing rugby that had become our hallmark. Strong winds narrowed the game considerably, resulting in a physical battle. Nevertheless, the team’s composure and talent shone through, allowing them to produce moments of quality and score five tries to secure a well-earned victory. I would like to extend my thanks to Simon Greenall and Jack Snowden for their invaluable support throughout the season. It was a pleasure to work with such a committed and talented group of players who consistently delivered entertaining and high-quality rugby.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19.
Isaac Blasdale Sufiyaan Riaz Ian Dowty Hassan Fiaz Charlie Walker Charlie Flood Felix Forrester(Capt) Ollie Yip(Vice-Capt) William Thorp Elliot Heppenstall Harry Flood Barnaby Richards Charlie Allsopp Eddie Hira Haydn D’Adda Matthew Fernihough Freddie Yorke-Brookes Sam Ward James Dehmas
The season began with a couple of fiercely contested losses against Solihull and Bloxham. We did not start strongly enough in either game. However, the boys were unlucky to miss out in both games, as there were times where they played impressively, given how young the season was. This was followed up with a convincing win the following weekend, but then a loss against a strong Tommy’s team, picked from a hundred boys. We went on to win convincingly the next five games and were looking impressive. Momentum was lost when we had a match cancelled and suffered some injuries. The last two games were tougher in the flesh than they should have been on paper. Our final game was a disappointing end to what had been a super season, as the stormy conditions and horizontal rain in our faces turned a full 180 degrees as we changed ends at half time. You would not have believed the weather report afterwards! The damp end to the season being quickly forgotten is testament to a super group of young men who trained and played their games with passion, determination, spirit and grit.
U16 Rugby
Coach name: Mr B Williams The U16A rugby team enjoyed a successful and competitive season, showing both individual talent and strong teamwork across both the 15-a-Side and Sevens formats. With more wins than losses and a total of 176 points scored against just 62 conceded, the team consistently impressed with their structured play, disciplined defence and ability to build multi-phase attacks. From the outset, the squad committed to playing as a team. Training focused on maintaining shape, supporting the ball carrier and recycling possession efficiently. This approach paid off in matches, where the team built pressure through sustained phases and finished with well-worked tries involving multiple players. Their ability to stay organised under pressure was a key factor in their success.
U15 Rugby
The campaign began with real intent, securing convincing wins over Solihull School and Bloxham School, where the team impressed with attacking structure and solid defensive work. These early victories built confidence and set the tone for the term. The side progressed to the 3rd Round of the National Bowl, a notable achievement and a testament to the hard work on the training pitch. Although they were defeated by a very strong Cheltenham College outfit, the match provided valuable experience and showed the team what it takes to compete at the top level of schoolboy rugby. The season concluded in dramatic fashion with a thrilling draw against RGS Worcester. It was a physical, end-to-end contest and the boys displayed real resilience and teamwork throughout the whole game—a performance that encapsulated the progress made this year. While the results were mixed, the overall record of five wins, one draw,
Season highlights included notable victories over Sir Thomas Rich’s, Malvern College, Bloxham School, and Solihull School. These matches showcased the team’s adaptability and tactical awareness. The win against Sir Thomas Rich’s was particularly impressive, with the team dominating territory and possession. Against Malvern, the forwards laid a solid platform, allowing the backs to exploit space and finish clinically. The Bloxham and Solihull fixtures highlighted the squad’s depth and resilience, with players stepping up in key moments. As the 15-a-side season concluded, the team transitioned smoothly into the Sevens season, competing in tournaments at Warwick School, KES Bath, and Prior Park College. Sevens rugby requires speed, agility and quick decision-making and the
and five losses reflects a group that consistently competed and developed in all areas. The squad showed commitment, passion and a growing understanding of the game. The boys can be proud of what they achieved this year and look forward to what is to be an exciting 2025 season with the U16s National Cup and Senior rugby looming soon.
U14A Rugby
Coach name: Mr A Gillgrass This was a season that contained many pleasing aspects: individuals making significant progress with their physical and sporting skill sets, the development of a real team spirit and ethos, many hard-fought victories and a couple of fiercely contested losses. Rarely were we the biggest side on the pitch, but it was even rarer that we would come off having lost the physical battle. This says a great deal about the strong mind-set and determination that the boys displayed every time they took to the field. This was probably
team impressively adapted. Their structured approach and fitness gave them an edge in tight matches. Highlights of the Sevens campaign included wins over Princethorpe College, KES Bath, and Kirkham Grammar School, achieved through disciplined defence and sharp attacking play. The team reached two shield finals, winning one and drawing the other. At the Nationals, they narrowly missed out on progressing to the knockout stages, falling short by just one score in a top-of-the-table clash. Throughout the season, the players showed excellent character, commitment to training and support for one another. Leadership within the squad was strong, and the coaching staff were pleased with the team’s development and tactical maturity.
best exemplified in the National Cup match away to RGS where we battled in atrocious conditions to a one score loss. The rest of the season contained many comprehensive wins, particularly over Solihull, Bloxham, Malvern and Bishop Vesey’s. The best two fixtures were exciting last-minute wins against a strong Monmouth side (17 – 14) and away to Sir Thomas Rich’s (14 – 12); the team did not know when they were beaten and these two games highlighted this perfectly. It is difficult to single out specific individuals but the all-round performances of Billy Tomlinson were phenomenal; his kicking from both hand and tee gave us momentum and field-position, whilst his running and defensive skills were second to none. In the pack Freddie Walters Dowell was belligerent and created constant pressure at scrum time. The boys were a pleasure to coach and I look forward to watching their development over the coming years.
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U14B Rugby
1st VII
The Under 14B rugby team enjoyed a successful season, marked by determination, teamwork and some impressive performances. From the first whistle to the final match, the squad demonstrated unwavering commitment and trained hard during the week which had the effect of sharpening their skills. Their efforts paid off with several standout victories and moments of individual excellence that lifted the team. There was a truly exceptional team spirit in the squad and the players supported one another, showing maturity beyond their years and a healthy respect for each team they played against. Their attitude and work ethic was commendable and they made significant progress in both their technique and tactical understanding. I really enjoyed their company and look forward to seeing how they develop in the game over the next few years.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13.
Coach name: Mr R James
U13B Rugby
The U13B team made a strong start to the season, securing some impressive early wins and showing real promise across the squad. Throughout the year, the boys worked hard to improve both individually and as a team. It was especially pleasing to see the number of players who were new to rugby this year, stepping up confidently and quickly becoming key members of the squad. Although the results didn’t always go our way, many matches were closely contested and could have ended with either team winning. As the season wore on, the team found it harder to maintain consistency in defence and tackling under pressure became an area for development against some of the tougher opponents. Despite these challenges, the squad showed great spirit and enthusiasm and there were clear signs of progress. With more experience and continued commitment, this group has every opportunity to build on the positives of the season and come back stronger next year.
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Coach name: Mr J Mason Will Mason (Captain) Matt Franks (Vice Captain) Mike Edwards Henry Horsfall Flynn Hatfield-Evans Sam Edwards Ollie Yip Elliot Heppenstall Seth Essenhigh Alex Probert Dan Arridge Harry Press Charlie Mason
It’s not always the case that a strong XVs season translates seamlessly onto the 7s pitch, so it was particularly pleasing to see the high standard of rugby from the first Term continue into the second Term. We began with a new tournament hosted by BGS, which provided an excellent early opportunity to get game time and build momentum. Solid performances there set the tone for the term. This was followed by the North of England 7s, where the squad delivered a strong groupstage showing, earning a quarterfinal tie against eventual champions Sedbergh. The team played with composure, maintaining possession under pressure and making several clean breaks. Although we didn’t convert these chances, the experience proved invaluable and helped shape our approach later in the season. Our first major success came at our home tournament, the Mark Roberts Shield. Despite going unbeaten in the group stages, we finished second on points difference and entered the Plate competition. A semi-final win over Magdalen College set up a thrilling final against a talented Bloxham side. In a fast-paced, endto-end match, the boys showed great determination to score late and secure the win. Buoyed by this result, the squad headed into the Nationals with confidence. Facing a tough group, the team knew they had to be sharp from the outset—and they delivered. Progressing to the second day required a win in an elimination match against a strong Durham side
featuring several academy players. This match turned out to be one of the finest performances I’ve seen from a King’s team. After going 14–0 down, the boys fought back to level the score by half-time. The second half mirrored the first, with Durham pulling ahead 28–14 before we rallied again to 28–28, forcing golden score extra time. Pressure at the restart allowed us to retain possession, and Matt Franks finished in the corner to seal a memorable victory. Recovery was key, with ice baths and an early night at the hotel ahead of a gruelling second day featuring six more matches that tested the squad’s mental and physical resilience. In the quarter-final pool, we progressed to semi-final clashes against Samuel Whitbread and Uppingham. Both games were tightly contested, but the squad rose to the occasion, producing decisive moments to break down the opposition. After two days and nine matches, the team reached the final which was the first time the School had achieved this for several years. The fact that we still had a full squad available at that stage was a testament to their fitness and athleticism. Unfortunately, two sin bins at a critical point in the final—when we were just one score behind—made it extremely difficult to prevent another try. It was a disappointing way for the match to end, but it should not overshadow what was a monumental effort from a talented and committed group of players.
U12 Rugby
The 2024–25 season was a thrilling showcase of talent, teamwork and tenacity across all levels of U12 rugby at King’s Worcester. With the School’s values of ambition, resilience, and community at the heart of every performance, it was a genuine pleasure to work with such a committed and spirited group of boys.
Skiing Junior Ski Trip – Claviere, Italy
The A Team, superbly led by Monty Edwards, delivered a season to remember. Winning eight matches, drawing one, and losing just two, they amassed an impressive 310 points for and conceded only 150—an emphatic testament to their attacking flair and defensive strength. The season began with a confident win over Solihull, followed by a nail-biting victory against Sir Thomas Rich’s. A standout performance came in the 35–10 triumph over Bishop Vesey’s, while the titanic battle against RGS in dreadful weather conditions showcased the team’s grit and resilience, ending in a hard-earned 20–20 draw. The B Team mirrored this success, winning eight, drawing one, and losing just once. Their excellent results reflected the depth of talent in the squad, with many players pushing for A Team selection. It was particularly rewarding to see individuals grow in confidence and skill, demonstrating the strength of the development pathway. The C Team also impressed. They were able to secure six wins, one draw, and two losses. Their performances highlighted the breadth of ability across the year group and the pride with which so many boys represented the School. The camaraderie and determination shown at this level were truly inspiring. In Sevens rugby, the boys rose to the challenge of the faster-paced format with outstanding performances. At the KES Birmingham tournament, they finished second overall and they matched this achievement at our own event. The open spaces and shorter format demanded greater fitness and sharper skills— both of which the boys embraced with enthusiasm and maturity. This season has been a celebration of character, commitment and collective spirit. The boys have embodied the values of King’s Worcester throughout, and it has been a privilege to witness their growth. With such talent and attitude on display, the future of rugby at King’s is exceptionally bright.
T
Tennis
his year has been a fantastic one for tennis, with high levels of engagement across all age groups. From enthusiastic beginners in the lower years to experienced players in the senior squads, the sport has continued to grow in popularity. Our tennis clubs have seen excellent attendance throughout the season, with pupils showing great commitment to training and development. We were proud to enter the LTA Schools Tennis League across all age categories for both boys and girls. This provided players with valuable opportunities to compete in singles and doubles matches against a range of schools across the county. While results were varied, the effort, sportsmanship, and positivity displayed by our pupils were outstanding throughout.
F ebruary saw everyone down tools and jump on to a coach for the airport, followed by a flight over to Italy for the annual Junior Ski Trip. Claviere is a King’s favourite for many reasons, but it is part of the Milky Way group of resorts meaning that we could go exploring on skis – and that’s just what happened. Snow conditions were great, and the quality of skiing improved hour by hour as the students absorbed instruction from the Italian Ski School. With five hours of instruction each day, and an hour to break for lunch, everyone was fairly tired by the time the last lift took them up to the top for their final runs of the day. It was a pleasure to see how much fun was being had by all. There was no time to stop in the evenings either! There were lots of entertainments planned and students enjoyed pizza nights at local restaurants, Karaoke, snowshoeing, hot chocolates and crepes, quizzes, pool and lots more. Many hundreds of miles were covered on the slopes. The students were great company as always, and there were some very tired faces on the journey home! CW
In both singles and doubles formats, players demonstrated resilience and a willingness to learn from each match. Many fixtures were closely contested, and it was encouraging to see pupils supporting one another and celebrating team successes. The experience gained from competitive play has been invaluable, helping players to improve their tactical awareness and match confidence. One of the most rewarding aspects of the season was the number of pupils eager to represent the school. Their enthusiasm created a vibrant and inclusive tennis culture, where players of all abilities felt welcome and supported. Training sessions were lively and enjoyable, with a strong sense of camaraderie among the group. As the season progressed, we saw noticeable improvements in technique, fitness, and match play. The players’ commitment to both practice and competition has laid a strong foundation for future success. We look forward to building on this momentum next year and continuing to foster a love for tennis across the School. KFK
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Swimming
A
fter a lengthy, but much needed and very welcome refurbishment to the School swimming pool, the first swimming gala of the year took place on Tuesday 24th September at Malvern College. This gala was the English Schools Swimming Association’s annual ‘Relays’ gala, where teams from any secondary school in the country are able to take part. Schools are invited to take a ‘girls’ and ‘boys’ team along in three different age groups; Junior (Lower Fourth and Upper Fourth), Inter (Lower Remove and Upper Remove), and Senior (Fifth and Sixth Form). Whilst most schools only took one team in each age group, due to the renewed interest in swimming from pupils at the school, along with the number of club swimmers, Mr Jenkinson (Head of Swimming) and Mrs Monkhouse (Aquatics Teacher) were able to take 50 KSW pupils on the coach to the gala, to field an impressive 12 relay teams (two teams in each age group), at this competition! Although preparation for this gala wasn’t ideal, with the swimming pool only opening the day before the gala, there was no sign that this had hindered the pupils, as they all demonstrated impressive swimming skills, great sportsmanship and excellent teamwork, throughout the gala. The swimmers all swam 50m in a Freestyle and/or Medley (Backstroke, Breaststroke, Butterfly and Freestyle) relay, against teams in their age category from local schools including; Pershore High School, RGS Worcester, King Edward VI and Haybridge School. Competing against 53 teams from 35 schools, the KSW pupils achieved remarkable results across multiple categories, showcasing their skill and commitment to the sport.
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The Senior Boys team led the way with victories in both the Freestyle and Medley relays, demonstrating their dominance in the region. The Senior Girls also put in strong performances, securing third place in both their Freestyle and Medley relays, leaving them with a spot in the national finals. In the Intermediate category, the Inter-Girls team finished fourth in the Freestyle relay and seventh in the Medley relay. The Inter Boys team achieved a solid seventh place in the Freestyle and an impressive third in the Medley relay. Our Junior Boys team also performed admirably, finishing third in the Freestyle and fourth in the Medley relay. The Junior Girls faced tough competition but managed to place ninth in the Freestyle and tenth in the Medley relay. Our B teams also made their mark, with the Junior Boys B team finishing in the top ten. The Inter Girls B, Senior Girls B, and Senior Boys B teams all placed within the top 15, while the Junior Girls B team secured a spot in the top 20. This reflected the depth of talent in our swimming squads. In a show of enthusiasm and commitment, King’s Worcester was able to enter a C Team in the Junior and Inter Girls categories, which highlighted the growing interest in swimming at the school. This level of participation is encouraging and bodes well for future success. The results from this event were entered into a national database, along with all of the other results from E.S.S.A. galas that took place around the country, in order to create one overall, ‘virtual’ result for each relay category, with the swimmers having to wait patiently to see which relay teams qualified for the E.S.S.A. National finals, which were due to take place a couple of months later in the Commonwealth Games pool at Sandwell Aquatics Centre on Saturday 16th November.
Not long after the E.S.S.A. qualifying round, King’s had the privilege of hosting Olympic gold medallist and world champion swimmer, Matt Richards M.B.E., on Saturday 12th October, to deliver his renowned ‘509 Swim Clinic’ to swimmers from across the midlands. Richards, a key member of Team GB’s 4x200m Freestyle relay team at the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics, spent the day inspiring pupils and young swimmers from across Worcester with his expertise, passion, and journey to the top of world swimming. The clinic offered aspiring swimmers a unique opportunity to learn from one of the sport’s most accomplished athletes. Richards, who has become a household name in British swimming, delivered a hands-on, engaging session tailored to swimmers looking to refine their techniques and improve performance in the pool. The clinic included personalised coaching on stroke techniques, starts, turns, and underwater skills, as well as insights into the mind-set and discipline required to compete at the elite level. At just 21 years old, Richards is already a veteran of international competitions, holding both Olympic gold and world championship titles. KSW was thrilled to have Matt visit the School and work with our young athletes. It was an incredible opportunity for them to learn directly from an Olympic Champion and see first-hand what it takes to excel at the highest levels of sport.
The event also included a Q & A session where Richards, his parents, coach and wife Emily, who is also a GB swimmer, all shared their personal experiences, including the dedication and resilience needed to achieve Olympic glory. Richards expressed his enthusiasm for working with the young swimmers, saying, “It’s been an amazing day. I’m passionate about helping young swimmers realise their potential and showing them that with hard work and determination, anything is possible. It’s always rewarding to see their progress and to be a part of their journey.” The 509 Swim Clinic was met with high praise from both participants and parents, with many remarking on how impactful it was to receive direct coaching from one of the sport’s top talents. The event underscored King’s Worcester’s commitment to fostering excellence in swimming, providing pupils with top-tier opportunities to grow in their chosen sports. Just a week later, the King’s Worcester Swimming Academy team delivered its first ‘Swimming Camp’ to a group of swimmers from across Worcestershire. The aim of the camp was to provide these swimmers with the opportunity to develop their swimming skills and techniques, whilst also receiving an introduction to dry land warm up and training, as well as helping to develop their understanding of the importance of diet, exercise and stretching, and how these can all help with their general fitness, health and mental wellbeing. This swimming camp proved extremely popular with all who attended and was an excellent opportunity to showcase KSW. Also in October, four outstanding swimmers from King’s were selected to represent Worcester County at the prestigious Swim England National County Team Championships that took place in Sheffield. This was a significant achievement for the young athletes, as the National County Team Championships are considered one of the most exciting and competitive events in the swimming calendar. Held at Sheffield’s renowned Ponds Forge International Sports Centre, the event saw more than 900 swimmers from counties across England, as well as regions from Scotland and Wales, competing in two 25m pools simultaneously. The fast-paced
competition took place in front of a packed and energetic crowd, making it an extremely popular event with both swimmers and spectators. Well done to Harry Chandler, Grace Earp, Ben Gooch, and Dylan Lewis for their exceptional efforts and for earning the honour of representing Worcester County. Their hard work, dedication and fierce competitive spirit have paid off, and earnt them the opportunity to showcase their talents on the national stage. A number of King’s Foundation pupils competed in the Worcester Swimming Club Autumn Open Meet. Millie Wood (KSA), Thea Everitt (KSH), Mia Gooch (KSW), Pippa P (KSH), Ben Gooch (KSW), Helena Cooke (KSW), Shreya Vickram (KSW), Aled Lee (KSW), Humphrey Doodes (KSW), Frankie Barry (KSW), and Freddie Preston (KSW) all represented their respective King’s Foundation schools with pride. Notably, Grace R, Aled Lee, and Ben Gooch qualified for the exciting ‘skins’ event, with Ben triumphing by winning all seven of the 50m back-toback sprints. Additionally, many other pupils participated in the Sandwell Open Meet at the Commonwealth Games Pool, competing for their respective clubs ensuring a strong King’s presence across both events.
Swimming Success at ESSA Secondary Schools’ Team Championships After delivering an exceptional performance in the West Midlands qualifying round of the English Schools Swimming Association (E.S.S.A.) National Relay Championships, the KSW pupils had a tantalising wait for the overall results, whilst the results from the other regional qualifying rounds were uploaded onto a national database. The top 24 teams from all regions were invited to the E.S.S.A. National Team Relay Championships, which were held at the Commonwealth Games pool in the Sandwell Aquatics Centre on Saturday 16th November. Our Senior Boys’ and Senior Girls’ relay teams had been optimistic about their chances of qualifying for this prestigious event and both teams were successful in achieving the required qualification times – an impressive feat in itself! The talented KSW swimmers from these relay teams travelled to the Sandwell Aquatic Centre, the
venue for the 2022 Commonwealth Games and took part in the English Schools’ Swimming Association (ESSA) 66th Secondary Schools’ Team Championships. The standard at this event was exceptional – one team even included an Olympic swimmer! Despite the tough competition, our swimmers excelled, surpassing their entry times and achieving strong results across the board. The boys’ team, consisting of; Harry Chandler, Ben Gooch, Dylan Lewis, and Aled Lee put in superb performances. They narrowly missed the finals (the top 10 teams), finishing 11th in the medley relay – a heartbreakingly close 0.2 seconds away – and 13th in the freestyle relay. Competing against such elite swimmers and securing these positions was an extraordinary accomplishment. The girls’ team, made up of; Frankie Barry, Grace Earp, Grace Ryder, and Catherine Hamilton truly shone. Starting the freestyle relay ranked 32nd, they stormed to 15th place, climbing an astonishing 17 places. This remarkable result filled them with confidence for the medley relay later in the day. In a breathtaking display, they smashed their qualifying time by over three seconds to finish 8th and secure a place in the final. Thrilled by their success, the girls analysed their performance poolside and identified ways to improve further. In the final, they each delivered faster splits to knock off another second, finishing an incredible seventh overall. To move from 21st in qualifying to seventh, against powerhouse teams like Repton, Millfield, and Mount Kelly, was a phenomenal achievement. Well done, girls!
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Talented King’s Swimmers Excel at Bath and Otter Cup Invitational Relays
All of these exceptional KSW swimmers represented King’s with professionalism and exemplary sportsmanship throughout. Balancing rigorous training with school commitments is no small task, and it was inspiring to see them competing alongside the best age group swimmers in the country and achieving such brilliant results. We are immensely proud of their dedication, talent and success!
Moving on to March, eight talented swimmers from King’s Worcester embarked on an exciting trip to London, where they had the privilege of competing in the prestigious Bath and Otter Cup Relays invitational swimming competition. The event took place on Friday 7th March, at the renowned Olympic swimming pool at the London Aquatics Centre.
Outstanding Performances at the National Winter Swimming Championships
Only a few weeks later, three talented Sixth Form students made a splash at the 2024 National Winter Swimming Championships - a prestigious event in the swimming calendar - which were held at Ponds Forge International Sports Centre, Sheffield. Grace Earp, Ben Gooch and Harry Chandler showcased their swimming prowess, earning lifetime bests and delivering standout performances in their respective events. Qualifying to compete at this level is a remarkable achievement, and Grace, Ben, and Harry demonstrated their dedication and talent throughout the competition. All three pupils excelled in their heats, with each securing a place in the 17 & Under national finals for their respective events: • Grace Earp: 100m and 200m Breaststroke • Ben Gooch: 50m and 100m Freestyle, 50m and 100m Butterfly, and 50m Backstroke • Harry Chandler: 50m, 100m, and 200m Butterfly, and 50m, 100m, 200m, and 400m Freestyle Their final impressive:
results
were
equally
• Grace Earp claimed a Bronze medal in the 100m Breaststroke. • Ben Gooch finished 9th in both the 50m Freestyle and 100m Butterfly. • Harry Chandler delivered a sensational performance, finishing 4th in the 200m Freestyle, 7th in the 400m Freestyle, and capturing gold in the 100m Butterfly. Their dedication and determination paid off and the School is incredibly proud of their accomplishments.
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This competition is one of the highlights of the school swimming calendar, drawing schools from across Great Britain to compete in high-standard, team relay events.
Bromsgrove School Relays Invitational Gala
Competing against top schools from across the county, King’s fielded six teams at the Bromsgrove School relays Invitational Gala: two Inter Girls, one Inter Boys, one Senior Girls, and two Senior Boys. Our teams competed against schools from all over the county. Each school participated in both the 4 x 50m Freestyle Relay and the 4 x 50m Medley Relay, with all King’s teams demonstrating impressive skill and determination. Every King’s team successfully qualified for their respective finals, highlighting the strength and depth of the squad. A particular standout performance came from the Senior Men’s B team, who defied expectations by qualifying for the Men’s A final—a remarkable feat, especially considering team members Isaac P, Joe O’L and Oli S also swam in the Inter category! Although the girls’ teams narrowly missed out on a podium finish, placing fourth, the Senior Men’s A team dominated both of their events, securing victories in the Freestyle and Medley relays. Their commanding win ensured they retained the championship title that they had also won the previous year.
The girls’ team performed admirably in two highly competitive relays. In the 4 x 50m Medley Relay, they finished in 17th place out of 73 schools, showcasing their teamwork and resilience. Their effort in the 4 x 50m Freestyle Relay was equally impressive, as they secured 18th place, once again out of a tough field of 73 schools. The boys’ team delivered some remarkable results, narrowly missing out on podium positions in their respective events. In the 4 x 100m Freestyle Relay, they finished in 5th place out of 78 schools; a fantastic achievement that left them just a fraction away from a medal. They also performed well in the 4 x 50m Medley Relay, securing 8th place, again out of 78 schools, showing their competitive spirit and strength. As if competing in the Bath and Otter Cup Relays wasn’t enough, four of the KSW swimmers – Grace Earp, Ben Gooch, Grace Ryder, and Harry Chandler then travelled from London to Sheffield, immediately after the competition to compete in another swimming meet that weekend! Their goal being to achieve more qualifying times for the prestigious Aquatics GB British Championships and Swim England National Championships, as well as further improving their times in the events that they had already qualified for. Well done to Aled Lee, Ben Gooch, Catherine Hamilton, Dylan Lewis, Grace Earp, Grace, Ryder, Harry Chandler and Lucie Evans, who all represented King’s Worcester extremely well. A special mention to
Lucie Evans, who swam a long course relay personal best time in the 4 x 50m Freestyle relay, in her first time swimming in the Olympic pool and representing the senior swimming team! May saw the King’s Worcester Swimming Academy team deliver another swimming camp, in partnership with Worcester Swimming Club, during the half term week – this time to a group of ‘junior’ swimmers from King’s St. Alban’s, King’s Hawford, and other primary-aged swimmers from across Worcestershire. This Junior Swim Development Camp also proved extremely popular, with the swimmers having the opportunity to develop a range of different swimming skills and techniques throughout the camp. This camp was so popular and successful that the KSW Swimming Academy team is already planning the next Swimming Camps for the 2025-26 academic year.
Friendly Swimming Gala with RGS Worcester
As the 2024-25 academic year came to an end, 25 enthusiastic pupils from the Lower Years represented King’s in a friendly yet competitive swimming gala against RGS Worcester on Friday 13th June - the first senior school ‘home’ gala to take place at KSW for well over a decade! The event was a culmination of months of dedication, skill development, and commitment shown by our young swimmers during their training with the King’s Worcester Swimming Academy. The gala was designed to give pupils the opportunity to put their hard work into practice in a supportive and encouraging environment. It was particularly valuable for some of our swimmers who are not part of external swim clubs but have shown a real passion and enjoyment for the sport within school. For several, this was their first experience of a competitive gala, and they rose to the occasion with enthusiasm and determination. The standard of swimming from both schools was truly impressive. Many participants achieved times that met county and regional qualifying standards, highlighting the depth of talent on display. Despite the friendly nature of the gala, the atmosphere was electric with competitive spirit, supported by loud cheers and
encouragement from fellow pupils and a fantastic turnout of parents and spectators. While the emphasis of this event was on participation, enjoyment, and experience, every pupil gave their best in the water. The afternoon was a celebration of teamwork, sportsmanship, and the joy of swimming — a memorable occasion for all involved.
Well done to; Edith Dean, Freddie Preston, Emily Hind, Rowan Thomas, Charlie Murphy Fliss Timmis, Harry Clay, Amelia Booth, Teddy Carpenter, Helena Cooke, Sam McVeigh, Shreya Vickram, Matthew Pyper, Emily Sydenham, Jonas Harvey, Jess Dalton, Humphrey Doodes, Lily Eiser, Henry Walker, Evie Escobar-Reid, Tom Exton, Stella Gurney, Bryn Luton and Rook Thompson, who all represented KSW so well and demonstrated some strong swimming skills, as well as great effort, teamwork and passion.
King’s Swimming Academy’s U12 and U13 Swimmers Claim Impressive Wins Shortly after the 2025 Worcester County Swimming Championships had taken place, 16 pupils from the Lower Years travelled to Warwick School to take part in the Warwick Sprints swimming gala, against 18 different school teams from across the Midlands.
The team was made up of pupils from the Swimming Academy, who all train in the School pool before and/or after school several times a week. There were plenty of opportunities for all the pupils to put the diving, turning and relay changeover skills that they have been developing into practice under race conditions, in the 100m Individual Medley, 50m Freestyle, 50m Backstroke, 50m Breaststroke and 50m Butterfly events. Each pupil was able to swim in at least one individual event, as well as in their team’s 4 x 50m Freestyle and Medley relay. After an afternoon of back-to-back racing, the U12 boys’ team came 1st overall; the U13 boys’ and girls’ team both came 4th overall, and the U12 girls’ team came 5th overall, with all three teams narrowly missing out on 3rd place by just 3 points. These results meant that the U12 and U13 Boys also won the combined team trophy as well, which was a fantastic achievement!
There were some outstanding individual results in the 50m sprints and 100m Individual Medley, many of which were personal best times, with victory going to Matthew Pyper (Lower Fourth) in the 50m Breaststroke, who also finished 2nd in the 100m Individual Medley.
Cleo Fitton (Upper Fourth), (2nd – 50m Backstroke), Harry Clay (Lower Fourth), (2nd – 50m Backstroke), and Teddy Carpenter (Lower Fourth), (3rd – 50m Butterfly), also finished in the medal positions. There was further success in the relays, with the U12 boys winning both their 4 x 50m Freestyle and Medley relays; the U12 girls finishing 2nd in their 4 x 50m Freestyle relay; the U13 girls winning their 4 x 50m Medley relay, and the U13 boys finishing in a very respectable 3rd place in both of their relays – a result made even more impressive considering that two of the Year 7 boys had to ‘swim up’ an age group, due to illness on the day. Well done to Amelia B, Evie Rea, Fliss T, Helena Cooke, Shreya Vickram, Cleo Fitton, Edith Dean, Erin Launder, Hattie Townsend, Harry Clay, Jonas Harvey, Matthew Pyper, Sam), Teddy Carpenter, Freddie Preston and Rowan Thomas, who all swam and represented extremely well.
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King’s Swimmers Shine at Worcester County Championships In the Spring Term, a pleasing number of Senior School pupils took part in the 2025 Worcester County Championships in the Commonwealth Games pool at Sandwell Aquatics Centre.
In total, 24 King’s pupils qualified for these annual championships, which is a wonderful achievement. Several more pupils from King’s Hawford and King’s St. Alban’s also took part, demonstrating the talent currently extending across the King’s Foundation. Ben Gooch won the 50m Freestyle, 100m Backstroke and 50m Backstroke, achieving an outstanding British Championships qualification time, on his way to becoming County Champion in these events, as well as achieving 2nd places in the 50m Butterfly, 100m Butterfly, 200m Freestyle and 100m Freestyle, just being touched out by Harry Chandler. As well as becoming County Champion in the 100m and 200m Butterfly, 400m Individual Medley and 50m Butterfly, Harry also won the 100m, 200m and 800m Freestyle, as well as placing 2nd in the 1500m Freestyle and 3rd in the 50m Freestyle. This meant that Harry Chandler finished the 2025 Worcester County Championships with seven county championship titles and British
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championship times to his name – an incredible achievement! Fellow Sixth Form student, Grace Earp, secured first place in the 200m Breaststroke and second place in the 50m Breaststroke in her respective age category. Following in the footsteps of our Sixth Form swimmers, there was further medal success for: • Dylan L – County Champion in his age group for 50m Backstroke, and 2nd in the 50m Freestyle • Catherine H – 2nd in the 800m Freestyle and 3rd in the 50m and 100m Backstroke • Fliss T – 3rd in the 400m Individual Medley • Sam M – 2nd in the 100m Butterfly and 3rd in the 50m Butterfly • Aled L – 3rd in the 400m Individual Medley • Grace R – 3rd in the 200m Breaststroke Freddie P, Hattie T, Mia G, Lucie E, Isaac P, Rowan T and Cerys G all swam well and achieved one or more PBs. Mia G, Amelia B, Matthew P, Grace R, Aled Lee, Sophie E, Helena C, Harry C, Sam M, Teddy C, Alex M and Joseph O’ L also set PBs and qualified for the age group final in their respective events too.
Overall, it has been an extremely successful year for Swimming at King’s. Thank you very much to all of the pupils who have embraced Swimming since the pool reopened in September and supported the newly formed King’s Worcester Swimming Academy. A personal thank you must also go to Lizzie Monkhouse (King’s Worcester Swimming Academy Aquatics Teacher) and Mark Stowe (Worcester Swimming Club Head Coach) for all their support this year - the future looks very bright for Swimming. Chris Jenkinson KSW Head of Swimming.
CLUBS & ACTIVITIES
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CCF Army Section Summer Camp – July 2025
t the end of the Summer Term, the Army Section spent a week at the Prince William of Gloucester Barracks in Grantham. This annual camp marked the culmination of the year’s training, giving cadets the opportunity to put into practice the wide range of skills they had developed, and to experience life on a working military base. During the week, cadets continued their training and had the chance to earn their trained shot or marksman badges on the range. Prior to this, they practised on the DCCT, laser training range, which helped them to refine
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their technique and achieve impressive scores on the 25-metre range. Cadets also revised and enhanced their fieldcraft, communication, teamwork and First Aid skills in preparation for the field training exercise. This three-day exercise, which included an overnight stay in the field, tested their planning, preparation, leadership and self-reliance under realistic conditions. The final day of camp provided a well-earned opportunity to relax and celebrate a successful week. Cadets enjoyed a day of adventurous activities, including high ropes and white-
water rafting at Holme Pierrepont in Nottingham. The camp concluded with a formal Mess Night and awards ceremony, where several cadets received promotions and achieved their proficiency stars and Spencer badges. The cadets’ achievements throughout the week - and indeed the year - would not have been possible without the dedication and support of the CCF staff. Their tireless efforts, both during training and at summer camp, ensured the cadets gained maximum value from their experience and ended the year with a great sense of accomplishment. SE
CCF RAF Camp at RAF Halton – A Week to Remember
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uring the Summer Term, 13 cadets from our School’s Combined Cadet Force (RAF Section) attended a week-long camp at RAF Halton, offering a unique insight into life on a working Royal Air Force base. The camp was a fantastic opportunity for cadets to experience life in the RAF, integrate with cadets from other schools across the country, and develop vital skills through a variety of challenging and enjoyable activities. Throughout the week, cadets took part in sport and leadership exercises, including the high and low ropes courses, which tested their teamwork,
courage and resilience. They also visited two fascinating sites: the RAF Museum in Hendon, which offered a look into the history of military aviation, and the Trenchard Museum, where they learned about the heritage of RAF Halton and its importance in RAF training. The cadets also enjoyed a memorable trip to London, where they had a photo opportunity outside No. 10 Downing Street and witnessed the iconic Changing of the Guard at Horse Guards Parade. This cultural visit gave cadets a chance to see some of the nation’s most important landmarks and added a unique dimension to their camp experience.
The highlight of the week was undoubtedly the visit to RAF Odiham, home of the RAF’s Chinook Force. Cadets had the rare opportunity to climb aboard a Chinook helicopter, visit the station fire section, where they cooled off with the fire hoses, and explore the armoury, learning more about the equipment and roles of regular RAF personnel. The camp was an unforgettable experience, offering fun, friendship, and a genuine taste of military life. Cadets returned with new skills, stronger teamwork, and a deeper understanding of what it means to serve in the Royal Air Force. SE
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The Sixth Form Charity Committee
he committee meets every week and consists of a group of enthusiastic volunteers from Lower and Upper Sixth. Our purpose is to facilitate a range of fundraising and awareness days throughout the year, as well as seeking to support our local community. The year started with a fundraising and awareness day in October for the chosen charity, MIND, to align with World Mental Health Day. The committee arranged a Sixth Form non-uniform day with ‘hints of yellow’, combined with a whole school cake sale, and we were delighted to raise £582 for the charity. The charity seeks to: ‘fight for change’ at government level; ‘support people with mental health problems’ and ‘raise awareness’ of mental health. In December, the committee was involved in two key events. Our first was a school-wide collection of gifts for senior citizens. These were wrapped and then delivered in person to two local care homes: The Lawns and Juniper House. Members of the committee, along with Monitors, sang carols and delivered mince pies and presents. This
afternoon was filled with warmth, joy and generosity. We also organised a Christmas Jumper Day to raise money for our local homeless charity, Magg’s, and the international charity Save The Children. Joyful jumpers and Christmas spirit resulted in raising £1089 to split between the two charities. April saw the return of our traditional ‘Green Day’ where we seek to raise funds but also awareness of environmental issues. The combination of a superb cake sale, Lower Years second hand clothes sale and whole-school non uniform day, resulted in over £1700 being raised for our two chosen local charities: Wildgoose Rural Training and The Emily Foundation. We were able to also supplement these funds with an additional sale of cakes from the Easter Bake Off competition, for our School’s Eco Committee to purchase items for the school grounds. Our final event of the year, The Fort Royal Party, involved all Lower Sixth students and was a huge success. Charity Committee members, along with Heads of House, organised a party held at Fort Royal Community Primary School in June. The school is a local primary school for children with specialist SEND needs. Face painting, story acting, inflatables, fair games and ice creams were all featured highlights. From a personal perspective, I always find it incredibly emotional watching our Sixth Form interact, support and bring so much joy to the young people at the school. For most of our pupils, this was the first time that they had experienced helping children with disabilities and their confidence, care and willingness to participate was exceptional. It is an annual highlight for Fort Royal but also a stand-out day for our Lower Sixth, who gain so much from the event. The success of our Charity Committee relies heavily on our families’ support and generosity. May I take this opportunity to thank all King’s families for all they do to support school charity initiatives. AJF
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Christian Union
his year, Christian Union has continued to be a place of laughter, fun and friendship; with plenty of games, chocolate biscuits and thoughtful conversations about the Bible. It has been a relaxed and welcoming environment where pupils can explore what they believe and consider what faith means to them. It’s been especially encouraging to see several pupils regularly attending and even asking whether we might bring back our much-loved weekend away in the future. We’re certainly hoping to investigate that possibility for next year! As always, Christian Union remains open to everyone. Whether you’re curious about Christianity, interested in discussing big questions, or simply want to enjoy a biscuit and a chat with friends. All are welcome. JNG
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Creative Writing Club
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Duke of Edinburgh
his year, our small but dedicated club has enjoyed huge success in a range of literary competitions. To name just a few of our successes, we have had poems from Georgina Norris, Katie Ferguson, Nikoletta Fletcher and Sienna Clarke published in Poetry Escape and a range of terrifying stories published in Fright Club: Blood Moon Rising, including The Seventh Commandment by Hannah Kehoe, Bella by Evie Nicholas and The Drawer by Katerina Fletcher. Penny Blakemore and Georgina Norris also had a wonderful collaborative poem published in the Beautiful Truth collection. Special mention must, once again, be made of Elizabeth Shilvock, the doyenne of Creative Writing Club, who continues to work tirelessly on her intricate fantasy-based stories and is always excellent company on a Friday lunchtime. I am very much looking forward to seeing Elizabeth’s work in print! Bird Song Deciphering a vast ocean of stars Through which I enter my shallow grave. The translucent whispers Of hollow waves Cheep cheep. I do not hear But imagine The beautiful music of a song thrush Idly lying in the midnight air, But one day the world Will reveal its secret sounds. My heartbeat steadies The start of a new ensemble. I don’t like it there But I must go For hope that one I day I will hear a bird sing. A mahogany sign reads ‘Audiology Room’.
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he Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme continues to flourish at King’s. Approximately 220 pupils from the Lower Remove to the Upper Sixth have been actively working on a Bronze, Silver or Gold Award showing interest and commitment to a wide variety of activities. The Bronze training/practice expedition took place at Pikes Pool near Bromsgrove in March. On the first day, 11 groups each worked closely with an instructor, developing important outdoor skills before camping overnight. The following day, pupils navigated independently, putting their new skills to the test and building confidence in their route finding. The qualifying expedition was held in the scenic Cotswolds in high temperatures. Rucksacks were kept as light as possible, and the frequent water breaks helped participants complete their journey in good spirits. Assessors were particularly impressed by the enthusiasm and collaboration shown, especially as pupils worked with others outside their immediate friendship groups. The Bronze Award continues to provide a vital foundation in outdoor skills and personal development, serving as a springboard for those who choose to pursue Silver and Gold DofE in more remote and challenging environments.
The sorrows of my deathly crypt, The sharp wit of that blackened grin, The metallic folds of the scythe. I bleed my drops of poetry To hear invisible bleeps. Silent shadows paint the walls, The sly squeal of the imposing door. The ghost of footsteps echo from a mile away Approaching swiftly before they plummet. Infinite bleeps They are tossed at me But are not caught. This is how I feel… Alone. For hope that one day I will hear a bird’s song. By Penny Blakemore and Georgina Norris, aged 12 LAW
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At Silver level, a hardy bunch of Fifth Formers enjoyed good weather on their Practice Expedition in Dartmoor. Impressive distances were walked on the first day with instructors, developing navigation and route-finding skills, before an overnight camp and two further days. A highlight for many was a rewarding wild camp on the open moor. Once their GCSE exams had finished, six groups headed to the Black Mountains where they completed an assessed three-day expedition. Staff were impressed with their determination and strong teamwork that resulted in a successful assessment, despite a few navigational challenges. The Gold Award is, quite rightly, a significant and more serious challenge. Four groups had their resilience and teamwork fully tested at Easter when they had to cope with some tough weather. This did not prevent 22 students summiting Moel Siabod on the first day as an acclimatisation to the Eryri mountains. This steep walk and rock scramble led by staff was a great achievement before groups continued their expedition on their own in windy and wet conditions. Thankfully, the Qualifying Expedition in August was completed in near perfect conditions. A tough first day in the Buttermere and Borrowdale area, largely due to high temperatures, was followed by a more straightforward second day. Some mountain cloud challenged the navigation
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on day three, but all groups managed to reach camp in good time. A highlight for some was an amazing wild camp beside Haweswater Reservoir. Both the sense of isolation and the scenery were incredible. All four groups finished on time at the end of day four and were fully deserving of their expedition pass. A strength of DofE is the wide choice of activities that can be chosen for the Skills, Physical, Volunteering (and at Gold, the Residential) Sections. Some of these involve activities that participants are already doing, whilst others are new activities that give opportunities that would otherwise not be taken. Well done to all those pupils who have demonstrated the necessary commitment to achieve an Award by completing all their sections. Special congratulations to this year’s Gold Award holders who were treated to a special Garden Party in Buckingham Palace’s Gardens in May, and especially to Jude Austin, Lola Bell, James Capell, Jemima Hatcher-Wilkins, Josh Lavarack, Will Mason, Zach Mason, Rebecca Nosworthy, Edmund Roberts, Will Tucker, Amelia Venables, Harry Waters, Connor Yates and Joseph Murray who achieved the entire Gold Award before the end of their Upper Sixth year. This really is a tremendous achievement! SCC
Staff were impressed with their determination and strong teamwork that resulted in a successful assessment, despite a few navigational challenges.
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Formula 1 In Schools International Competition
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his year I thought I’d start the season’s review with a quotation from Claire Williams of Williams Racing:
The tasks that all participating students have to go through to establish their own Formula One team during the Challenge not only expose to them the type of work required for creating, producing and running a team such as Williams but also equips them with a variety of life skills. Looking at Prism Racing’s beautifully sculptured car, it is easy to see how much time went into designing, virtual testing and modifying to create it. However, what is often forgotten is the similar amount of time spent in obtaining funding through sponsorship and organising the resources to enable a car to be lined up on the grid on race day. Central Regional Final February 2025
This was held at Aston University in Birmingham and Prism Racing competed in the Professional Class. Our first Development Class team, coincidently, named F1rst Racing also represented King’s. The teams started their day by delivering their cars to Parc Ferme where the judges scrutinize every dimension to check they comply with the Technical Rules and Regulations and only get the car back when it’s their turn to race down the twenty-metre-long track. Just like real race teams they set up a pit area, and this becomes the central meeting point for judging the team’s work on project management, marketing, sponsorship and enterprise. The teams also must present an illustrated presentation to a different panel of judges to highlight their IT and verbal communication skills. Unfortunately, running out of time resulted in a lack of testing, which meant neither team managed to win their races. Just like the real world of Formula 1 there is no substitute for track time and finishing cars the afternoon before ‘race day’ wasn’t conducive to being successful. Truly a lesson learned for the future.
Prism Racing team members: Ethan Tan - Project and Finance Manager Aron Gijsel – Sponsorship and Marketing Manager Arthur Dyke - Design Engineer and Manufacturing Engineer William Perkins - Graphic Designer Our thanks go again to this year’s sponsors: ‘Keysafe’, ‘Armstrong Bell’ and ‘Envision Technical Services SDN BHD’. There were 28 teams competing in the Development Class with many of the schools having already competed at this level and therefore knowing how to prepare for the day. F1rst Racing produced a neat looking car that was quick. It only took 1.63 seconds to travel the twenty-metre-long track. F1rst Racing team members: James Cooke - Project Manager James Lee - Finance Manager Alex Foster - Design Engineer Willoughby Nelson - Manufacturing Engineer Evie Gwilliam – Sponsorship and Marketing Manager Robert Lee - Graphic Designer
Both teams also ran out of time to complete all the paperwork which meant they lost valuable marks. This did not prevent them enthusiastically explaining how their car had been manufactured and why particular designs and processes were chosen.
Our thanks go to this season’s sponsors for F1rst Racing: ‘MG Lakes Property Limited’ and ‘EPO YUE’ without whom it would be impossible to get a car ready for the competition.
It is a major challenge itself, in getting the team and a car to a regional final so a big well done to both our teams for achieving this.
It was a great experience, challenging, but definitely worth it. I got taught a lot, especially at how competitive car building really is.
Up against 17 professional class teams from around the region and only three podium slots to be filled it came down to those fine margins and Prism Racing came 6th. The besttimed run of the car was 1.34 seconds.
I’ll end with a quotation from a member of the King’s team:
EIL
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Model United Nations
his has been another very successful year for the Model United Nations club at King’s with high levels of attendance at the weekly debates, particularly from the new Lower Sixth students, who brought an added dynamism to our conference attendance. On Saturday 5th October 2024, 11 students ranging in age from Upper Remove to Upper Sixth travelled with Mrs Shearburn and Mr Ball to Cheadle Hulme School near Stockport in Cheshire to participate in a Model United Nations conference together with around 25 other schools. We had been assigned the countries of Lebanon and Argentina and our delegations attended debates in their committees on a range of topics including: the issue of responsibility for immigrants travelling across the English Channel, forced displacement of people due to conflict, lethal weapons that contravene international agreements, illiteracy in LEDCs, child labour in global supply chains, protection of coastal settlements from rising sea levels and assisted dying. The debating lasted all Saturday, with a crisis scenario being introduced on the Saturday evening which was then the topic of debate during Sunday morning. We fielded strong delegates, many of whom had never been to a conference before, and it was really pleasing that many of our students were recognised in their committees for their performances. James Capell (Upper Sixth) was Highly Commended in the Justice Committee and Toby Auty (Lower Sixth) got a Special Mention in the Political Committee. Anne Garrard won a Highly Commended and Pranav Mayilhavanan won Best Young Delegate in the Disarmament and Security Committee. Sophie Ruane (Lower Sixth) won Highly Commended in the Special Committee on Slavery and Trafficking and, finally, Samantha Capell received a Special Mention for her performance in the SOCHUM (Social, Cultural and Humanitarian) Committee.
On 28th February 2025, five of our older students participated in the annual remote online GoodCOP conference established by the charity Engage
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with China and hosted remotely by The Grange School in Nantwich. It was truly an international affair with students dialling in from around the world, with interesting workarounds for time differences, to discuss global environmental issues.
a delegate from Kingswood and then, for the rest of the time, the delegates met in their committees and began lobbying, which is where they try to get enough signatures from other delegates for their resolutions to be debated and then voted on during Saturday and Sunday.
In March, it was time for our annual trip to Kingswood School in Bath for their conference. Pupils at the conference represented 73 nations in total. From King’s, we had Sophie Ruane (Human Rights Committee), Anne Garrad (Historical Committee), James Capell (Environmental Committee), Samantha Capell (Human Rights Committee), Rumaysa Imran (Environmental Committee), Pranav Mayilvahanan (Security Council), Edgar Kelsey (Science and Technology Committee), Joseph Roberts (Science and Technology Committee), Charlie Hathaway (Historical Committee), Rowan Campbell (Political Committee) and Toby Auty (Political Committee). Our students represented Pakistan and Jordan.
All of Saturday was spent debating and voting on resolutions and amendments to resolutions in their committees. The King’s students were actively involved, speaking for and against resolutions as well as attempting to make amendments for resolutions. In the evening, we enjoyed an Italian meal at a local restaurant.
The weekend involved leaving King’s straight after school on Friday, travelling to Kingswood School in Bath, where we heard an excellent opening speech from
Sunday, the final day of the trip, began with more resolution debating and voting. James Capell gave an excellent speech about a resolution that he put forward, which was then successfully passed. The committees were then presented with ‘emergency scenarios’ which were based on their committees. There was a wide range of emergencies including a volcanic eruption in Papua New Guinea, toxic pollution coming from North Korea, an attempt to limit women’s rights in Saudi Arabia and Russia threatening to invade more of
Europe. This was an exciting part of the day in which the delegates had only 25 minutes to produce resolutions and successfully lobby for them to be debated and voted on. Sunday then ended with the General Assembly, which is where all the schools taking part in the conference came together in theatre representing their countries. They were then presented with another emergency to debate and attempt to resolve; this time it was over the USA trying to reclaim control of the Panama Canal. The day ended with an awards ceremony and closing speeches. Many students from King’s received awards or commendations. James Capell won Highly Commended for his role representing Pakistan in the environmental committee. Charlie Hathaway won Best Junior Delegate for his involvement in the historic committee representing Pakistan.
Samantha Capell won a commendation for her work representing Jordan in the Human Rights committee and Sophie Ruane won a commendation for her work representing Pakistan in the Human Rights committee. In the overall conference awards, all the representatives of Pakistan won a commendation for their work in all the committees. These students were Charlie (Historic Committee), Sophie (Human Rights Committee), James (Environmental Committee), Toby (Political Committee) and Pranav (Security Council). Finally, on May 5th, all of our students participated in an all-day MUN conference at Malvern College. It was very much a local affair with students from Worcester Sixth Form College, Royal Grammar School Worcester, Nunnery Wood and Malvern College taking part.
The students debated issues within their committees, seeking to find mediated solutions to global issues through negotiation and persuasion. The committees and issues were the following: arms supply in Russia/ Ukraine conflict, fossil fuel dependency in underdeveloped economics and promotion of sustainable alternatives, solutions for the Sudan crisis, restrictions on freedom of expression and protection of fundamental rights and the regulation of cryptocurrencies to ensure financial stability and prevent misuse. Two of our students received awards: Sophie (Lower Sixth) and Charlie (Upper Remove). I should like to thank my colleagues Richard Ball and Charlie Webster for giving up their weekends to accompany me on these trips. RJS
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The Eco Committee
he Senior School Eco Committee was formed in September 2024 with the aim of obtaining the Green Flag status through Eco-Schools, an accolade previously achieved in both King’s Hawford and King’s St Alban’s. The committee has focused its efforts on raising awareness of environmental action across the School with particular emphasis on waste, biodiversity and global citizenship.
Trust, also marked the beginning of ambitious plans to create a shared space for both wildlife and students. Following a successful assembly on package free consumerism from Pack-It-In founder and shop owner Phil Gilfillan, pupils visited the zerowaste store in The Cornmarket. This provided valuable inspiration for future initiatives targeting packaging and recycling improvements.
Autumn Term
Spring Term: Action and Awareness
The year began with an exploration of current activity in School and in our immediate neighbourhood. The discovery that the School has a biomass boiler, a number of passive buildings and an array of solar panels along with a robust environmental policy to set zero carbon goals was both reassuring and inspirational. In a meeting with Dean Stephen Edwards, the committee learnt about the Cathedral’s journey towards the Eco-Church Gold Standard award through a number of projects which include its ‘Living Gently on Earth’ talks, nature spaces and management of the peregrine falcons’ nesting sites. Discussions also covered vital topics such as tree planting, sustainable water use, and achieving carbon neutrality, inspiring potential future partnerships between the School and the Cathedral. Back on the other side of College Green, the committee had further meetings with Head of Operations, Adam Winter, to review our current ecoinitiatives and share their own visions for sustainability. This led to the launch of a comprehensive environmental review of the School, setting the stage for a detailed action plan to be presented to Senior Leaders and Governors. By the second half of the term, the Eco Committee had narrowed their focus to tackling school waste and enhancing biodiversity. A training session with caterers Thomas Franks gave them insight into sustainable food waste management, laying the groundwork for their forthcoming Green Waste Campaign aimed at Lower Years pupils. A site survey of No.12 gardens, supported by Worcestershire Wildlife
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As the new year commenced, the committee put forward their proposals for the No.12 gardens, with the first phase of development taking shape in the following months. One of the most valued contributions came from Upper Remove pupil, Benedict Roberts, who crafted and donated a number of bird
boxes which can now be seen adorning the trees around the gardens. A highlight of the term was the tremendously successful Green Day, which raised funds for Wild Goose Rural Training and The Emily Jordan Foundation. The event, led by The Charity Committee, featured a preloved clothes shop and a bustling cake sale, bringing together students and staff for a collective push toward sustainability. Meanwhile, the Thomas Franks Green Waste Campaign officially launched, with Lower Fourth pupil, Jessica Dalton, winning the poster competition for her striking design, now proudly displayed on screens around the school site to promote mindful eating habits and reduce plate waste. Changes were also afoot in the curriculum as pupils presented their ideas for greater focus on sustainability in PSHE and other subjects, driving changes that will be implemented
in the coming year. A collaborative presentation to all staff during whole school INSET also served to offer inspiration to those staff who might feel that there is potential to integrate environmental objectives in their departments. To reinforce their waste-conscious efforts, the committee ventured to Envirosort Recycling Centre, gaining firsthand insight into the recycling process. Equipped with practical knowledge, they planned an assembly to educate Lower Years pupils on effective recycling habits. Meanwhile, tangible progress was being made in the No.12 gardens with new paths, benches and flourishing wildflowers welcoming both students and wildlife to the space.
Summer Term: Growth and Legacy
As the academic year drew to a close, the Eco Committee celebrated the flourishing ecosystem they had nurtured. The No.12 gardens had blossomed into a haven for migratory birds and insects, supported by the installation of bird tables, a hedgehog house and a bug house—generously made by volunteers at Twigs in collaboration with The Emily Jordan Foundation. Education remained at the heart of the committee’s mission, with an assembly highlighting key takeaways from their Envirosort visit, ensuring that the community continued to embrace better recycling habits. Over the summer period, the committee shared pre-recorded top eco-tips on social media, including practical advice such as adding lids to glass jars and cutting cardboard down to size before recycling.
Looking Ahead
The Eco Committee has had a profound impact on the School and local community, fostering partnerships, driving sustainability efforts and educating peers on environmental consciousness. We hope that this serves as an inspiration for future members of the community to uphold and expand their legacy of positive change. AJ
Junior Quizzing
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etween six and 10 faithful members of Lower Fourth and Upper Fourth have met every Thursday long break this year for a fun half hour of quizzing. Quiz themes have ranged from Science and the Solar System through to Taylor Swift and from sheep farming to capital cities and food. Some weeks, pupils created the quizzes on their favourite topics and put their peers to the test. We also practised hard with buzzers for the National Junior Schools’ Challenge Competition. Our A Team competed against Great Ballard School and B Team against Milbourne Lodge and put up a good fight but were sadly not successful this year. We would welcome new members from Lower Years next year to join this lively club. DRD
Middle Years Quizzing
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he Middle Years Quiz Club enjoyed an excellent year, attracting strong attendance and enthusiasm. At its peak, the club welcomed as many as 30 attendees. Such was the passion for quizzing that our regular Wednesday long break slot simply wasn’t enough, and an additional session for the most dedicated quizzers was launched on Fridays. Although, despite our determined efforts, we were narrowly defeated in the School’s Challenge, the competition brought out the very best in teamwork and quick thinking. It was a joy to spend time with members from both the Lower and Upper Removes, whose commitment and energy made every session lively and rewarding.
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Senior Quizzing
his year, Senior Quizzing has if anything become even more exciting, with the advent of some new and very determined Fifth Formers galvanising the Sixth Formers to even greater heights of brilliance. The sense of competition between the year groups has become more pronunounced than usual. During long break on Tuesdays, Edgar Tower has been ringing to the urgent interruptions of buzzers, cries of disbelief over answers and heated arguments as to whether or not Stanley Baldwin really is the only valid answer to questions about past PMs. The group has definitely been divided between the trigger happy ‘buzz while you think’-ers and those who advocate a ‘think before you buzz then get it right’ policy. In the annual National Schools Challenge, KSW A Team (Emily Andrews, James Capell, Theo Stallard and Ethan Tan) scored a magnificent 370 in their first round match. Unfortunately, they had been pitted against eventual runners-up KES Birmingham who scored 500, so King’s went from this match into the Plate competition. We ploughed confidently through against Reigate Grammar 800-100, then onto an unusual match against old rivals KES Stratford in which a quibble over the answer to the last starter question resulted in both teams going through! This led us onto a match against Stockport Grammar which we won 450-350 and propelled
KSW A into the last 8 for Plate Finals Day, again held online on a Sunday. KSW made a very confident start but a sudden comeback from our opponents, Exeter School A, put an end to this year’s Schools Challenge journey, only showing that you can never, even for a moment, let your guard down! The B team (Ellie Cartwright, Will Tucker, Will Gamble and Maxwell Lea) met Eastbourne College in the first round, earning a convincing victory of 270-150. In the second round their opponents, the very strong Hills Road Sixth Form College, just took the win with 470 points to our 380. The eagerly anticipated Senior InterHouse Quiz took place in the second term, with determination and spirit of competition high. The Houses gave a great showing in the heats with only half a point separating 4th and 5th places, which meant that the semi-finalists on the buzzers were Choir, Creighton, Oswald and School. Enjoyable matches between these old faces and new blood led to a thrilling final between Choir and School in which, when the bell sounded for the end of the match, there was no winner. The match went to an unprecedented third tie break, which was snatched 280-270 by the new 2025 winners, School House. We will be particularly sorry to see our Upper Sixth leave this year and will miss a strong set of quizzers, but we look forward to those moving up to continue the tradition. EAS
Looking ahead, I anticipate a wonderful year for those moving up to Senior Quiz Club with the support and guidance of Mrs Shepherd. Equally, I am excited to meet the next wave of keen quizzers joining us from Mrs Drew’s Lower Years Quiz Club—and perhaps even further afield. Watch this space for more news as our community of quizzers continues to grow! VLS
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Exploring New Depths: The 2025 Scuba Club T his year, nine adventurous pupils from Lower Fourth to Upper Remove took the plunge, literally, into the world of scuba diving with the 2025 Scuba Club. With expert guidance from Dive 90, a professional scuba training company based in Cheltenham, pupils embarked on a journey that was as challenging as it was exhilarating. Before any diving could begin, each pupil had to pass a swim test, demonstrating their ability to swim and tread water confidently. This ensured a solid foundation for the demanding training ahead. Once the basics were confirmed, the theory phase began. Using the SSI (Scuba Schools International) platform both online and in classroom sessions, pupils learned the essential principles of safe scuba diving. Topics included equipment management, buoyancy control, emergency procedures, underwater communication, air management, and even some dive physics. With theory under their belts, the group moved on to confined water training in the School pool. Here, they practised mask clearance techniques,
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air sharing with a buddy diver and refining their buoyancy skills. Learning to glide effortlessly through the water while conserving air is a key skill for any diver and our pupils showed great focus and determination in mastering it. Environmental awareness was also a key part of the training. Divers were taught about underwater ecology and how to protect the delicate sites they may explore. This included understanding how to interact responsibly with marine life and recognising the importance of conservation. A major milestone in the course was learning to assemble and use basic dive equipment safely. Pupils became familiar with the BCD (Buoyancy Control Device), air tanks, regulators, and gauges—essential components for any dive. This hands-on experience built confidence and competence, preparing them for the final phase of their training. At the end of term, the club headed to Cromhall Quarry, a popular open water dive site. Here, the young divers put their skills to the test in a realworld location. Cromhall’s submerged vehicles, including a sunken plane, provided an exciting backdrop for
exploration. The group even searched for the elusive Great Crested Newt; a rare species known to inhabit the quarry. Completing the course was no small feat. It required physical fitness, mental resilience and a willingness to face fears in an unfamiliar environment. Each student rose to the challenge, learning and practising new skills to a level that now allows them to dive to depths of up to 18 metres (with a buddy and in safe conditions). The certification they earned is globally recognised, meaning many of our divers will be able to continue their underwater adventures on family holidays, discovering new worlds hidden just below the surface. From coral reefs to shipwrecks, the possibilities are endless. We are incredibly proud of all the young divers (and Dr Petchsingh!) who qualified this year. Their concentration, determination and enthusiasm were evident throughout the course. The 2025 Scuba Club has not only learned to dive, they’ve learned to explore, protect and appreciate the wonders of the underwater world. ARG & CP
WRAITH
W
RAITH is the Library Book Club – a flourishing community of readers with seven groups, nearly 100 pupils and three members of staff involved. Each group has its own distinct character but all of them aim to bring together pupils and students who have a passion for reading books and for sharing that passion amongst friends.
Upper Fourth (Miss Jeffery)
Lower Fourth (Mrs Walmsley)
Starting off with ‘future fantasy classics’; the group read the “brilliant” and “beautiful” Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell, Skandar and the Unicorn Thief by A F Steadman “for a different take on childhood magical creatures”, and the wonderful William Blake infused Tyger, Tyger by S F Said, appreciated as both “fantastical and intriguing”. For December, the group chose to be either heart-warmed (by Some Like It Cold by Elle McNicoll and All I Want for Christmas by Beth Garrod) or chilled by the mysterious Murder at Wintertide by Fleur Hitchcock.
Our newest WRAITH group has grown steadily over the year and is now going strong, helped in no small part by Suzie’s wonderful cake contributions which are already legendary! We started the year with some historical-themed texts, notably Lucy Worsley’s fascinating fictionalised story of Queen Victoria’s companion in My Name is Victoria; many of us enjoyed the playful twist at the end and really warmed to the title character. Other readers preferred the excitement of Alex Scarrow’s fast-paced race through time in Time Riders and all enjoyed a lovely discussion in our first meeting. Throughout the year, we have dabbled in various categories of books, including futuristic fantasy, books short-listed for awards, and winter-themed reads. Our readers are growing in confidence and eager to read new genres, often inspired by each other as much as by our wonderful library. I am sure that the group will continue to flourish as they move up to the Upper Fourth. “Great fun! Loved the books and the atmosphere was amazing!” Bridget Parkes “Loved providing cake it was so fun!!!!!!” Suzanna Hoskins “WRAITH is very fun and there are lots of books to choose from.” Beth Skellum “Wraith is great, with lovely, friendly people and the books are amazing!” Iona Harris-Fry “Wraith is amazing. You get to talk to nice and friendly people about the books you love” Fausto Lewis “Great! I had a nice time looking though all the books on offer” Flissy Timmis
I have read some of my favourite books this past year and you get to talk to friendly like-minded people!!! Ella Beighton
Upper Fourth WRAITH has settled into being a group of wise and mature book lovers, confident to express their opinions. They are a delightful bunch of passionate readers, and I look forward to our sessions; I am also very grateful for the lovely baking!
We read some fantastic and thought-provoking science fiction. Ross Welford’s The Kid Who Came From Space was seen as “an inspiring double -perspective”, and Nowhere on Earth (Nick Lake) as “an eerie sci-fi that pulls you into the story”. Alex Scarrow’s TimeRiders was enjoyed as ‘a witty, clever sort of mystery’ and Aurora (Amie Kaufman) was “epic and thrilling”. In the summer, we so enjoyed the 2025 Read for Empathy Collection, that we devoted two meetings to exploring these titles. Particular favourites were: Louder Than Hunger (John Schu) an “in-depth rollercoaster” and “emotional story of adventuring beyond” and “breaking out of the comfort zone”, the “empowering” Sister Spirit by Efua Traoré, and King of Nothing by Nathanael Lessore (“heartwarming and comedic at the same time”). Sh!t Bag (Xena Knox) was seem as “touching” and “a brutal but funny book about stoma bags” whilst Keedie by Elle McNicoll “shows you are never on your own, even if you feel like it”. “WRAITH is something I look forward to every half-term. We all come together, enjoy books and make new friends, I always leave feeling positive, determined to read the next book – it’s always an excuse to enter someone else’s world.” Katie Ferguson “I love how WRAITH helps me explore new genres and read what I wouldn’t normally read if I was picking from a shelf.” Georgina Norris “WRAITH is a lovely club where people with different likes and dislikes come together to discuss a common interest, BOOKS! Each book is like a little spark that unites us. Ms Jeffery is so supportive and it is open to everyone.”Sienna Clarke
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Lower Remove (Mrs Capell)
This year, Lower Remove WRAITH has continued to be a welcoming space for readers to connect and share their love of books (and cake!) Though we may be small in number, we are certainly mighty in our love for books.
WRAITH is a fun opportunity to explore many genres and share your passion for books with others
We began the year with a few shared titles based on the recommendations of group members. As the year progressed, we shifted to a more flexible format (the group has ‘gone rogue’!) Each member chose their own books, and we came together to share recommendations, reviews and reflections. This approach allowed everyone to explore their own interests while still being part of a collective reading journey.
Sophia Boyd “I have really enjoyed WRAITH this year as we have read a range of genres and writing styles. My favourite genre was dark fantasy (and also the random choice.) Matilda Evans
As ever, our members best sum up the year… These quotations capture the spirit of WRAITH perfectly – a mix of thoughtful discussion, laughter, and a shared love of stories (and snacks!)
“WRAITH is a place where we can collaborate and share brilliant book recommendations.” Bluebell Murton
“I find WRAITH to be a great opportunity to socialise with friends and discuss new and different types of series and books.”
“WRAITH has been an amazing group to discuss books.” Anne Garrad
Fifth Form (Mrs Capell)
This year, WRAITH continued to be a vibrant hub for book
“I came to WRAITH to expand my book knowledge and my reading list. I have felt so at home chatting and eating cake.” “WRAITH is fab. You get some introvert time with other introverts, and cake. Love the cake! Keep it up – from the ROGUE GROUP.” “WRAITH is a small community of books, gossip and a bit of chaos.”
Upper Remove (Miss Jeffery)
The Upper Remove group is hugely entertaining, each of their preferences varied and interesting. They love their dystopia and dark fantasy but were willing to move out of their comfort zone to read a selection of Yount Adult verse novels including Wrecked (Louisa Reid), The Crossing (Manjeet Mann), Punching the Air (Ibi Zoboi), and One (Sarah Crossan). Ending the year with the gritty real-world titles that featured on the Carnegie Award shortlist, however, was taking a step too far for most!
lovers. From gothic tales and ghost stories to airport thrillers and prizewinning literature, we explored a great range of books that sparked curiosity, debate, and laughter. Whether you were a seasoned reader or just discovering the joy of books, there was something for everyone.
For Dystopia we read Only Ever Yours by Louise O’Neill (“the way it was worded really put into perspective the reality of the setting” (Izzy Sutton), You Could Be So Pretty by Holly Bourne, and George Orwell’s 1984 : “loved it, amazing, gave me a new perspective on life” - Bluebell Murton; “the similarities between our world and theirs are quite scary. I’d like to have a version from Big Brother’s point of view” – Anne Garrad. “Dystopia ticks all the boxes for us” Benedict Roberts
WRAITH has always been more than just about reading. It’s about sharing stories with friends, diving into discussions that sometimes went off topic (in the best way), and of course, enjoying a slice of cake or two. As Catherine Hamilton put it:
Eagerly devoured Dark Fantasy titles (read somewhat incongruously in the summer) included Wicked Little Deeds (Kat Ellis), Throne of Glass (Sarah J Maas), and Book of the Baku (R.L. Boyle).
“WRAITH is a great club to discuss and discover new books with friends (P.S. we get cake).”
Our final read was a random choice of titles selected from the WRAITH archive. The two most celebrated reads were We Were Liars E Lockhart “it was so good, I read it in two days” -Martha Evans, and House of Hollow (Krystal Sutherland), appreciated for its plot twists, imagery and descriptions, character development, storyline, and the crossover between reality and fantasy.
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“Great fun talking about books with friends and cake.” Emily Elsdon summed it up perfectly:
We are proud of the community we have built – one that is welcoming, thoughtful, and full of enthusiasm. Thank you to everyone who joined us this year, brought their ideas, and made WRAITH such a special part of the Library. Keep reading, and see you next year!
Lower Sixth (Mrs Walmsley)
This has been another year rich in reading experiences for our Lower Sixth group. We were delighted to welcome a good number of new members to the group in September; attendance has been high and the standard of cake (almost all baked by Connie!) even higher. We started off with a ‘free choice’ from the WRAITH shelves in the first half term, exploring authors including Lauren Roberts and Matt Killeen. This warmed us up nicely for our Christmas reads which were all either seasonal or snow-themed: A Week in December by Sebastian Faulks, Stay Another Day by Juno Dawson and the chilling Thin Air by Michelle Paver. One of the best things about this group is their wideranging literary tastes and their enthusiasm for recommending books to each other. In the Spring Term, we spent some time swapping recommendations and trying new things. We then agreed to give Samantha Harvey’s Booker-winning Orbital a go alongside Daphne Du Maurier’s ever-popular page-turner Rebecca. Reviews of Orbital were mixed, but WRAITH has definitely given rise to some new du Maurier fans! We also found time to read some stories inspired by ancient Greece and Rome, most notably The Penelopiad by Margaret Atwood and The Wolf Den by Elodie Harper, both of which appealed to the group’s interest in female-centric retellings of the sufferings of ancient women. This group always brings a real interest and intelligence to all literary discussions, and I look forward to more literary adventures in the Upper Sixth. “It’s a lovely club of cakes, chaos, and a variety of book recommendations. Not a single session is boring, and there is always space to try something new, or revisit favourites.“ Elizabeth Shilvock “I’ve really enjoyed WRAITH this year, it’s been really nice reading new books and chatting about them over cakes.” Carys Macleod
Upper Sixth (Miss Jeffery)
In their final year as WRAITHers, this small but perfectly formed group started the year with the classic WWI novels Atonement (Ian McEwan) and All Quiet on the Western Front (Erich Remarque); the latter a particularly powerful read for our students reading about soldiers the same age as them, who were snatched from education and thrust into the dehumanising horrors of war. The Booker Prize winning Orbital by Samantha Harvey was our Christmas read. This beautiful, elegant novella, which seemed to have something worth quoting on every page, gave us much to discuss, and the group blew my mind with their astrophysics knowledge. For the group’s final read, I chose The Binding by Bridget Collins, as both in its reading experience and in its subject matter, it encapsulates the intoxicating power of books. This group has been the most brilliant company to share books with over the years, from the quite crazy early days to the wisdom of their Sixth Form years. Now an exciting new chapter has begun for James Capell, Ellie Cartwright, Martha, Connor Yates, Will Tucker, and Amy Smithson, but they have left me with enduring happy memories.
I was part of WRAITH since the start of Lower Fourth and have enjoyed every moment of it. We have done so many great books, but my particular favourites have been Eragon, Brave New World and Illuminae. WRAITH has also encouraged me to broaden my reading beyond science fiction and fantasy, and I hope that I can keep this up next year. James Capell AHCJ
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Young Archaeologist Club
he King’s School Young Archaeologist Club continues to see regulars who both have an interest in history and are curious about a career in archaeology. In the past 12 months, we have seen a mixture of activities. These have ranged from learning the skills employed by archaeologists to the very popular ‘Experimental Archaeology’. A surprise to all members was an activity looking at how archaeology is damaged almost daily across the World. We used case studies of both malicious and accidental damage. Malicious damage can be caused by vandalism, wars, religious ideology, theft and even ‘night hawking’. Night hawking is very common, whereby people detect using metal detectors on protected, archaeologically sensitive sites. Sadly,
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the past is often seen as something that can be forgotten and therefore not recorded accurately in crime statistics. Archaeology, however, is important because it holds so much information on how our ancestors lived. This activity also looked at the damage caused to shipwrecks by trawlers dragging netting, by the deep ploughing of fields on buried Roman mosaics and even the damage caused by major building projects such as housing developments for the growing population. Changes to the environment have become a serious problem for some sites in more recent years. Coastal erosion is destroying structures built near the sea, peat bogs and fires caused by long, dry summers are all proving very damaging to what lies beneath.
One popular activity we carried out under the title ‘Experimental Archaeology’, looked at fire-making in the past. The group had an opportunity to make fire using several replica tools. The hardest was the prehistoric fire bow, which created heat by friction on wood. The easiest being the more reliable Flint and Iron Striker. This activity ended with looking at the creation of Fire Sticks and Vestas in the 18th and 19th Centuries. It is also humbling to hear that at least two students have decided to study Archaeology because of this club and the fact that the skills can be used in many fields. The King’s School Young Archaeology Club is open to all year groups, with meetings taking place on a Friday lunchtime every fortnight. PH
STUDENT EDITORIAL TEAM
An Early 18th Century Battle of the Sexes Ollie Hamilton
Today, we perceive battle to be something violent, an apocalyptic destruction fought by soldiers with weapons in warzones. However, not all battles are fought on land and with arms. Some are fought with words, and one of the most fascinating examples is the poetic battle which took place in the early 18th century between neoclassical satirist Alexander Pope and early feminist polemicist Anne Finch. Replacing swords with stanzas and armies with imagery, their battle of language remains distant from our version of conflict today. The Trigger: Alexander Pope’s The Rape of The Lock (1712) The conflict began with Pope’s mockepic The Rape of the Lock, intended as a satire of high society which tells the tale of a young woman, Belinda, whose lock of hair is cut by a suitor, staging a mockheroic battle on trivial social incident. Pope portrays Belinda to be an aesthetic object taken for pleasure, a ‘nymph, to the destruction of mankind’, and Anne Finch believed that Belinda was partially modelled on herself. She saw herself reduced to a hollow stereotype of vanity, defined through appearance rather than intellect. Pope’s focus on physical ornamentation reduces her to a decorative mythological figure, who is awkwardly placed distant from her womanhood. This continues in Pope’s portrayal of her absorption with her own image when ‘A heavenly image in the glass appears’ to which ‘she bends, to that her eyes she rears’. For a woman like Finch who had fought to be recognised as a serious poet in a literary world dominated by the male, this reductive depiction was not harmless satire but was an agent that reinforced patriarchal cultural narrative.
Pope’s response to Finch’s aggravation: An Impromptu (1714) A response to Finch’s annoyance at Pope’s portrayal of woman, Pope’s An Impromptu mocks Finch in portraying her as an overly sensitive, archetypal female who was incapable of understanding the intellect of his satire. Instead of responding to her critique of literary misogyny, he reduces her as a symbol of the emotional dimension to the female. Pope writes ‘A lady’s wit is like a candle’s blaze, / Too short to lighten all the length of days’, reducing Finch’s intellect to be something fleeting and insubstantial, with the metaphor of candle emphasising ephemerality, implying that her wit cannot hold under scrutiny as his does, directly mocking her attempt to assert herself as a rational writer. This exemplifies the strategy of the patriarchal society both poets are situated within, in that Finch is dismissed on the grounds of gender stereotyping rather than reasoning. Finch’s Response: The Answer Despite this one-sided battle, Finch ensures she gets the final word in her poem, The Answer, where she offers a clear, reasoned defence of the women’s right to write. She exposes the impossible position that women are placed in, accounting that ‘they tell us, we mistake our sex and way;/ Good breeding, fashion, dancing, dressing play’, directly contradicting the ideology behind Belinda, the idea that a woman’s proper sphere is appearance and social grace rather than intellectual labour.
Then, she articulates the central injustice of female exclusion from literary culture, one where writing is treated as an exclusively male territory in her declaration ‘Alas! A woman that attempts the pen, / Such an intruder on the rights of men’. Here, we see Finch mimic Pope’s poetic form in writing in heroic couplets (rhymed lines of iambic pentameter) to invert his system of writing from underneath him. Finch doesn’t stop there. She also addresses the double bind that women face in noting how women ‘when we write, we’re censur’d; when we’re mute,/ We are despised, and held unfit dispute’. This captures a similar cycle of entrapment. If women speak, they are attacked; if they are silent, they are erased. When reading the poem under contemporary schools of thought, we can attribute Finch to being a key member of the protofeminist movement who even pre-dates Mary Wollstonecraft. Her use of logos stands in contrast to Pope’s sharp, derisory tone, which evidently gives her argument a greater intellectual authority than his. So why does this poetic battle matter? The exchange wasn’t exclusively a poetical argument, but rather an early struggle over engendered power and the voice which arises from it. Pope’s callous examination of womanhood represented a literary world that excluded active female involvement, while Finch remained a representative of a woman fighting back for creative and intellectual respect. Thus, their battle itself reminds us of how writing can be a form of resistance.
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Dr Oliver Interview
L ast December, I had the privilege of conducting a short interview with the former Acting Head, Dr Oliver. After a year of leading the School, and almost a term into her return as Deputy Head, we discussed some of the more personal aspects of her tenure which included her motivations, her previous experiences and how she balanced the demands of the job. Dr Oliver emphatically expanded on her strong convictions surrounding the importance of education; in particular, the necessity of the study of English Literature as a means of understanding ourselves and the world around us. Following this, we reflected on the merits of King’s as a school, pointing towards the ability to focus on and recognise the individual, whilst maintaining a strong sense of community.
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We went on to discuss her year as Acting Head, where she commented on how previous experience as Head of Department had provided experience in managing people, and establishing the structures to support those in her team. Dr Oliver also emphasised her reliance on her peers, whose sustained efforts helped to proverbially ‘steady the ship’ in order to provide Mr Charles, the new Head, with a platform for sustainable success. I then asked her about the things she did outside of her school life to balance such responsibility. After a brief pause for thought, she first said reading, and particularly Shakespeare (which I found unsurprising considering how the Bard seems to be almost omnipresent in her Cathedral addresses.) She went on to mention her affinity for gardening and spending time with loved ones,
which she insisted was as important as it was clichéd. I found this part of the interview particularly engaging, as she was able to speak freely about her personal enjoyments and her insights into managing stress felt relevant as I reflected on my own lead up to A-level exams. Since conducting the interview, Dr Oliver has finished her time at King’s. This has made me more appreciative of the fact I was able to conduct this interview and better understand her beyond the warm greetings and poetryladen addresses. Speaking on behalf of the whole school, we will all miss her infectious passion for education, literature and King’s. I would like to wish her the very best for the future at her new school. Alfie Hale
How Valuable It Is to Be Human Belinda Price
They’re not that different from you, are they? Invincible, just like you feel. The world is their oyster. They believe they’re destined for great things, just like many of you, their eyes are full of hope, just like you. These words, from the famous 1989 film Dead Poets Society, rang through my head as the Editorial Team for The Vigornian Magazine had the chance to read through previous issues. Mr Keating (played by Robin Williams) leads his students to view photographs of past pupils, contemplating the dreams and ambitions that they held in their youth. “Did they wait until it was too late to make from their lives even one iota of what they were capable?” he asks. What I read in those articles from decades ago was clearly what the pupils valued and thought important and worthy topics for publication. Their words made me think of the people behind the stories and experiences documented in this magazine, of those who had lived this life at King’s before me. One article particularly caught my eye, written in 1983, describing a jazz concert attended at school, where Humphrey Lyttleton performed with the MilneMacdonald Big Band. The author of this composition had the same passions as me and, like me, understood the importance of expression. This writer communicates how they can only feel sympathy “for those who won’t give themselves a chance to open their horizons by accepting or experimenting with new ideas, or in this case ‘old’ ones, in order to become more interesting people.” I think that this resonates so profoundly with our present society, where it seems to me that the humanities and arts subjects are undermined and mocked by those too short-sighted to look beyond what they already know. I believe that it is so vital to immerse yourself in your passions and interests and to conduct your life with a drive of
enthusiasm for what you love - be that sport, science, music, art or drama. All of these are available and supported in abundance at King’s, however I believe there is a growing disregard for these arts subjects across communities. If governments place priority over STEM subjects in schools, the rest of society will also submit to this lack of interest in the Arts as it can be so easy to follow the same opinions and expectations of others. The influential English teacher, Mr Keating also demonstrates this in one of his powerful lessons; he instructs a group of pupils to walk round the school yard but, in the end, they end up marching in single file with the others clapping in rhythm. He explains that he “brought them up here to illustrate the point of conformity: the difficulty in maintaining your own beliefs in the face of others.” Indeed, how can you pursue your passions when friends, parents, even the government encourage you to do otherwise? Or perhaps many people have never even discovered their interest in painting, writing or music because society prevented that fire from being kindled within them. Old Vigornian, Nicholas Cleobury, who is an esteemed professional in the music industry wrote this message: “When I was at King’s, it was fairly clear that I would become a musician, and I had an interest in all the Arts. But towards the end of my time and early at university, I questioned this, thinking that I should do something more useful to society, more practical. How wrong I was. We need all these practical people - business people, doctors and nurses, social workers, teachers and many, many more - but never ever neglect the Arts. They are the lifeblood and core of any civilised society. They enrich and
inspire our lives, teach and question. As broadcaster and author Lord Melvyn Bragg said, “they are not the cherry on the cake, they are the cake”. I soon recognised this and tried to play my part. Alas, to some extent they are still underfunded and under-recognised.” So, why are the Arts so important? Although I might be at the risk of sounding like a science textbook, I must point out that there are reams of statistics which demonstrate how the Arts boost wellbeing, reduce stress, and improve cognitive function. Furthermore, to draw your attention to Mr Keating again, in a discussion with his colleague, he points out that he is not teaching his pupils to be artists, but to be “free thinkers.” The Arts encourage you to use your imagination – despite all the correct answers and exam syllabuses that limit students’ curiosity and creativity. Instead of solely obeying what a teacher tells you is factually correct, surely it is important to express personal truths about the world as well? This is what is made possible by the Arts. In the 1983 article from The Vigornian, however, the writer describes that they “shed a tear or two” because of the beauty of the music which they experienced in that evening’s concert. So many creatives have emphasised the importance of empathy, including W. H. Auden, who says, “Let the more loving one be me.” How valuable it is to be human and have the opportunity to feel moved by art; imagine wasting this, and instead, living in a monotony of mundane thoughts and feelings. Surely, it is so much more important to live, feel and know the whole spectrum of human emotions.
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Was Achilles a Good Hero? Katerina Fletcher
A
chilles was considered a hero by the people of Ancient Greece for his victories in the Trojan War, showing his superior strength and how he was the greatest and most powerful mortal warrior of all the Greeks. He didn’t only do good deeds or have constant victory, however. Many of his actions were controversial or dishonourable, going against customs and traditions of the time. Firstly, one aspect which made Achilles more heroic was his parentage. His father, Peleus, was a mortal, and known for his strength and bravery, fighting alongside Jason as one of the Argonauts. He was also the king of Phthia, leaving Achilles to inherit both honour and royal status. This gave him more power from his heritage alone. Achilles’ mother was Thetis, who was a sea nymph and a goddess, making him a demigod with a link to the gods. This divine heritage was important as it meant that he had gods on his side and is even more influential. It also gave him a link to other heroes such as Heracles, who was considered one of the greatest heroes and eventually became a god. This raised his status and made him more heroic as he already has a great legacy to inherit and has links to the divine, so he was stronger than most mortals and would be respected. His experiences before the Trojan War also help to increase his heroism. Achilles was trained by Chiron, a centaur. Centaurs were typically viewed as barbaric and savage, however, Chiron was different. He was the oldest and wisest of the centaurs, and a son of Cronos, making him a half-brother of Zeus. He was trained by Apollo and Artemis in many fields and went on to teach great heroes such as Jason and Heracles. This furthered Achilles’ link with the gods and great heroes of the past, making him seem a more legitimate hero. Another aspect of his background goes against his heroic image however, especially in the eyes of the Ancient Greeks. Achilles was prophesied to die in the Trojan War and, to avoid this fate, Thetis, his mother, disguised Achilles as a woman on Scyros among the daughters of King Lycomedes. This would have been frowned upon by the
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Ancient Greeks as it feminised him and diminished his masculinity. This would make him seem weaker to them and would make him less heroic. However, a modern audience may have a more flexible viewpoint, and it would either not matter or would be understandable as he did it at the behest of his mother to avoid death. However, when Odysseus and Diomedes came to recruit Achilles for the war, Odysseus outmanoeuvred him. Disguised as pedlars, they came with a collection of trinkets for the women. Odysseus placed weapons within the collection and, whilst the women were admiring the jewellery, Achilles was instinctively drawn to the weapons, giving himself away. This shows how Odysseus outwitted him, suggesting that Achilles is not the strongest in terms of cunning. This makes him a lesser hero. The majority of Achilles’ fame came from his victories within the Trojan war, and especially his fight against Hector. This fight primarily took place out of Achilles’ anger at Patroclus’ death. After the loss of his slavegirl Briseis to Agamemnon, Achilles refused to continue fighting. This itself could be viewed as petty, worsening perceptions of his personality. The Greeks had started to lose and, after failing to convince Achilles to return to war, Patroclus went into war himself, wearing Achilles’ armour and was killed by the Trojan hero, Hector. It was his sacrifice that caused Achilles to return to battle, showing how his unreasonableness caused the death of his close friend and companion, decreasing his level of heroism and making him seem irresponsible. It was Achilles’ battle against Hector that proved his strength, but also his brutality. Achilles was able to defeat Hector and kill him, proving how he was stronger than Troy’s mightiest warrior, and further establishing himself as Greece’s most powerful fighter. It also dealt a huge blow to the Trojans, making him a good hero to the Greeks. However, the brutality of his next actions is the most controversial in terms of whether he was a good hero. After killing Hector, he tied his body to his chariot and dragged it around Troy three times before dragging it repeatedly around Patroclus’ tomb. Although the Ancient Greeks viewed
revenge as important, this treatment of his body was excessively brutal and went against respected burial rights which makes him a worse hero as he did not respect tradition and instead acted savagely. Achilles’ death further lowers his heroic status. He was killed by Hector’s brother, Paris, with an arrow. At the time, bows and arrows were considered a coward’s weapon as they did not involve direct combat, so Achilles’ death was cowardly and anticlimactic and would have been viewed as humiliating and dishonourable, as well as unbecoming for a hero. The arrow was also guided by Apollo. Although it means that a god was against him, his death was somewhat caused by a god, making it seem impossible for him to win, and so it wasn’t his fault. It also lends his death more honour, making him a hero with a greater legacy. In conclusion, Achilles was a very strong fighter allowing the Greeks to have numerous wins and killing Troy’s strongest warrior. However, he had humiliating moments and his brutality was extreme, disregarding proper tradition and morals. Therefore, although Achilles was the Greeks’ strongest warrior, he was an unsatisfactory and savage hero with few redeeming qualities. To the Ancient Greeks, although Achilles was their best warrior, killing many enemies and earning glory, many of his actions may have been viewed as shameful or unforgivable, making him less of a hero. A modern reader might not share the ancient view of the underworld, so it is more easily forgivable, especially since Hector’s death was in the context of war. As a result, a modern opinion may focus more on Achilles’ victories, placing less weight than the ancient Greeks did on his crime against Hector or his other shortcomings.
Creighton House Reflections
School Life
Creighton House had a remarkably busy year. Several of the Upper Sixth played a prominent role in school life. Amelia Venables served as Head of School, having started her King’s journey at St Alban’s. Reviewing her year, she explained how she relished the opportunity for regular meetings with the Head. Reflecting on her role, she said “It is a fantastic opportunity to be given such a great leadership role. I have really enjoyed the behind-thescenes organising and meetings, as well as the more public fronting jobs such as readings in the Carol Service, speeches for Open Mornings and the review of the year on King’s Day.”
Lake. I have also really enjoyed the experiences of rowing at Henley Royal and Henley Women’s in the 8+.” Being Captain of Boats, she explained, meant being involved in designing kit, being around the boathouse to lead workout sessions and being available to ask questions. “I enjoyed the Charity Overnight Row. We get to start the 24hour row off and then get the accolade of finishing it! We also got to present a £7000 cheque to Worcestershire Breast Unit Haven.” Another highlight of her time was the training camp to Banyoles. She has now left King’s for a place at Nottingham University.
Amelia was kept busy throughout the year, working closely with joint Head of School Eric Dykes. She explained, “We oversaw organising the Monitors for their roles around the School. There are a lot of forms and planning to sort, which I have enjoyed.” Additionally, she commented that the experience meant she had been offered different opportunities that she may not have initially wanted to do. “I have also appreciated being pushed out of my comfort zone and being offered chances to tour OVs around the school, having meetings with the Barnabas speaker, and arranging the Leavers’ Yearbook and End of Term Activities.” Amelia was incredibly grateful for the support both Dr Oliver and Mr Hand had given her and very much enjoyed the opportunities the role gave her.
Another Creighton House student in the Upper Sixth was made Senior Scholar for 2024-25. James Capell helped run the Higgins Society with Dr Head. “Every week, Sixth Formers gave a talk. My talk was on methods of space travel in Sci-fi, and we have had, some speeches on music and poetry, such as Paradise Lost. We even had a talk on tea!” Additionally, he had to organise the King’s and Queens Scholars, which numbered 30 this year. Reflecting on his role, James agreed that the Higgins Society has helped him with public speaking and the ability to ask searching questions. “Being Senior Scholar is a fitting end to my time at King’s and the best accolade I could have. I have been a King’s Scholar since Upper Remove and have very much enjoyed the opportunities it has offered me,” said James, who has taken up a place at Cambridge University.
In addition, Amelia was also Captain of Boats for 2024-25. She started rowing in Lower Remove, something that did not click straight away! “My first rowing camp saw me fall in the river and I have been swimming a few times. Thankfully, the dips are less frequent now, and I have progressed to Senior Girls, enjoying rowing in the Four. 4-! Last year we came sixth in National School’s Regatta held at Dorney
In addition, two other Upper Sixth students played critical roles in supporting Creighton House, as 202425 Heads of House. Ben Herbert said, “I was new to King’s for the Sixth Form and very much enjoyed my Lower Sixth and appreciated all that King’s had to offer, especially sport.” He added, “When the chance came to be Head of House, I was eager to apply, as I liked the pastoral system and Creighton
House, of course! I also wanted to develop my leadership skills.” During his tenure, he helped run regular quizzes with Lower Years and helped organise House Song Competition. Ben said, “We sang 500 Miles and, fortunately, I was able to enlist some musicians to help guide me for the rehearsals as sport is more my thing than music!” He enjoyed spending time with other years, developing their confidence through integration and meeting more pupils than just his year. Ben felt the experience of being Head of House obviously helped him, as he was able to reflect on what makes a good leader during his Army Scholarship interviews, adding that he had been awarded an Army Bursary to Sandhurst after university. Tilly Cook was also appointed Head of House, having been at King’s School since she was two! “First, I was at Hawford kindergarten, then moved through that school, before progressing to King’s.” Tilly said, “I’ve enjoyed the pastoral system, and I was Vice Captain of my House, in Year Six, so was really pleased to be offered the opportunity to be joint Head of Creighton House this year, to end my time at this school.” As first team Captain for Girls Cricket for three consecutive years, Tilly felt able to take on the role. “I have enjoyed being part of Creighton House, especially the team building Curry nights, and interacting with younger years and being a good role model!” She felt a highlight of being Head of House was organising and supporting the teams involved in House Netball and House Hockey, adding “While the results do not always go in our favour, they are always fun events.” Tilly was also involved in running the Fort Royal Summer Party. She is currently working at School as part of her Gap Year before heading off to university. SML
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Snapshots of School
Nikoletta Fletcher Waiting for the bus. It’s either paralysing cold or stifling heat: no in between. Pure hell – but I’m forced to wait. Today, Britain betrayed me. It selected the classic, miserable rain – the type that sticks to your skin, making you feel damp all day – I shouldn’t be surprised. The bus, since you ask? Late.
enham Harry Ballard and Ed Syd use tho Boa er Bak - The Michael River Severn on an idyllic the s ard tow n Looking dow ter quil, bright shimmering wa April day you see the tran out y left, looming imperiousl reflecting the trees. On the me thouse, casting some welco boa across the footpath is the es elv ms the ant swans preening shade over a cluster of eleg e glid you as From the water, by the edge of the water. and ing erg em nt ice a sleek gia around the bend, you not of green trees. Like a retired opy can the h oug thrusting thr ts ers over the swans and spi warship, it confidently tow s sile race. Gleaming white mis out King’s pupils ready to ion. Go!” fired from her bow. “Attent
Dismissed from our final classes, the whole school seems to be straggling off to their various after school activities, and then finally, home. Nothing is superior to the satisfying sensation of arriving home after a long day of school. Laying back on a bed is heavenly.
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Eden Gre en and C ecily Jarv - Colleg is e Green and The Cathedra l The Cath edral glim psed from school st ands tall against th toil and te e ar. A gran d backdro to the da p y-to-day life of sch aimlessly ool. Pupil from lesso s wanderi n to lesso stare at its ng n, sometim imposing es stop an p re edifying p sence. Still d resence w . Calm. Its as there b steady, watch us e fo re we cam leave. It e and will holds a m timeline a arker in e t school; fi very pup rst assemb Occasiona il’s ly to last e lly pupils xaminatio stumble in vast build n. to the inte ing. Stain rior of the ed glass p lime, crim atterns an son and d shafts o red dance a sunny f around th day. On e ra walls on in y windows d a y s d roplets w in a lazy altz down meander through th as sleepy e Cloister, feet shuffl the grand e eur taken for grante d.
Lex Meredith, Dan Lewis and Nico Ca llendine - Edgar To The ornate spires ris wer e upwards and ancie nt and silent stones the morning light. glisten in As you enter the wa lls of Edgar Tower, stories indented int walls with o it over centuries of school life. You forward, and footst take a step eps echo off the ha rd stone walls. Co and crack under the bb les creak feet of thousands. Day after day, mo month, centuries aft nth after er centuries it stand s, always listening moving. Pupils enter and never . The staircase twist s and turns on its jou the sky. A small, or rney to nate window shine s a single beam of light, dancing its way across the wa lls cracks as if to restore and renew them for another da y. You step in and up. Up. Every step. Up. Legs ache and the steps seem never ending.
PASTORAL
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D
Bright House – the End of an Era
espite the official closure of Bright House at the end of the 2023-24 academic year, the Bright Upper Sixth group remained intact for the students’ final year at King’s. We were annexed to School House, and found a very warm welcome there from Mr Pearson and his team. The members of Bright Upper Sixth – Will Allardice, Jude Austin, Jack Barnett, Isaac Blasdale, Max Crosby, Dash Hingey, Anna Pritchard, Sam Taylor-Edwards and Alfie Wilkinson – regularly joined forces with School House for activities and assemblies, but just as regularly remained as a group of nine, spending many a happy House Time playing their own unique brand of Wordle or, on special occasions, Pictionary.
Football, in the Spring Term, however, the boys decided they were going to put forward their own team. It was at this point that the large orange ‘Bright House Forever’ sign came into being. Undeterred – or spurred on, even – by limited success in the House Football, the boys then decided to enter a Bright House team into the 4x100m relay on Sports Day in May. This really was Bright’s Last Stand. The orange sign was in evidence again, and Sam, Jude, Will and Isaac ran their hearts out against overwhelming competition.
Alas, we did not medal in this race, but it was still, due to sheer team spirit, a wonderful end to House competition for the final cohort of Bright House. I feel privileged to have taken this historic group through to the end of their King’s career and feel that they provided a fitting conclusion to Bright’s time as a KSW House. Bright House Forever!
LAW
House competitions proved a challenge with only nine potential participants, so we usually competed in tandem with School House, for example in the House Song Competition. When it came to House
T
his year, Castle House has continued to embody its vibrant spirit and close-knit community, thanks to the positivity and enthusiasm shown by every pupil and member of staff. Our mornings came alive with everything from ball games in the Sports Hall to lively rounds of Family Fortunes in the garden — a fantastic way to kickstart the day. One of our proudest achievements was our victory in the Inter-House Football Tournament. Castle House demonstrated not only a wide range of ability, but also brilliant teamwork and tactical thinking. Castle has also remained committed and reliable in every other Inter-House
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Castle House sporting event. Determination and pride, a true testament to Castle’s nevergive-up attitude, was shown throughout all sporting activities. Castle House girls secured a triumphant win in the Inter-House hockey, and a narrow loss to Kittermaster in the netball, managing to secure a solid second place. Creativity also flourished in Castle this year. Both the Upper and Lower Sixth entertained us with presentations on a variety of topics — ranging from money heists to Disney conspiracy theories. We placed 4th in the House Song Competition after a valiant effort of singing Nazareth from the Nativity, with a range of costumes being wore, from donkeys to Christmas trees and, of course, Mary and Joseph.
As Upper Sixth leavers, it’s bittersweet to say goodbye. Castle has been a place full of fun, friendship and unforgettable memories. We’re incredibly grateful to Mr Houghton and Mr Deichen for their constant encouragement and support throughout our time here. We leave behind many great memories but, most importantly, we leave with pride in what Castle has achieved. We’re confident Castle House will continue to thrive under the brilliant leadership of next year’s Heads of House, Millie Comer and Freddie Firkins. The future is bright, and Castle’s heart remains strong. Castle House Heads of House 2024–25
W
hat a year it’s been for Chappel House - a year full of energy, achievements and just the right amount of mischief! From the moment we welcomed our new Lower Remove cohort (so large we briefly considered having two Lower Removes!), it was clear this was going to be a memorable year. We also greeted Sonali Prasad and Bryony Gillgrass from Bright, along with Sophie Smith-Graham, Daisy Joyce and Natalia Brousa into the Lower Sixth and all of whom brought fresh energy and enthusiasm to the House. The year kicked off with a flurry of competitions. Our Senior Inter-House Language Quiz team showed off their linguistic flair as we clinched victory by just two marks! Clearly, Chappel knows its subjunctives from its suffixes. Meanwhile, the Lower Remove quietly stole the show, winning by a single point. Not bad for our super new recruits. House Song was a highlight, as always. With Aisha Martorella on piano, Ed Sydenham on guitar and Eric Dykes conducting like a man on a mission, our rendition of Elton John and Kiki Dee’s Don’t Go Breaking My Heart earned us a proud 3rd place. Eric even walked away with the Best Conductor award. Dan Lewis and Amelia Walmsley also wowed the judges as solo winners, proving that Chappel’s got talent in spades. On the stage, White Christmas saw Amelia, Eric and Tigo Marskell take on starring roles, supported by a chorus of our Lower Sixth boys and a bustling backstage crew. It was a true team effort, with Chappel voices and hands everywhere, from front of house to the final curtain call. External sporting success also came thick and fast. George Marsh became the West Midlands U16 Powerlifting Champion (we’re still not sure how he lifts those weights), and both Bryony Gillgrass and Phoebe Brett earned ‘rookie contracts’ with Warwickshire Women which allowed them to play in the Tier 1 professional matches. Phoebe also gained her first cap in the U19s England squad and had a Hundred contract with Birmingham Phoenix. They are both amazing young women and great role models for our younger pupils. We were equally proud of
Chappel House Henry Horsfall who represented England U18s Rugby on their tour of South Africa, and scoring a fabulous try in the process. On home turf, our Remove boys were placed 3rd in InterHouse Football, the Remove girls came 2nd in Netball, and the Senior girls placed 5th. Hockey was a nail-biter, with the Seniors finishing 2nd after a fierce final against Castle. Senior Sports Day was amazing: we took an early points lead and our relay teams’ efforts as they sprinted their way to glory, helped us clinch the overall win! A special mention also goes to Lauren Harris, our Superball MVP, who played like a champion as we cheered the girls on. There were many other moments of fun and pride as well. Dan Lewis won a trophy at the Worcester Competitive Arts Festival for best musical theatre performer - Broadway, take note - and Amelia Walmsley won the National Youth Theatre Award for best supporting role – truly welldeserved and amazing! The Lower Remove trip to Mr Mulligans was a riot of mini-golf and laughter and Odd Socks Day brought a splash of colour and confusion to the corridors. The Paperchain Challenge remains a mystery as no one’s quite sure who won, but everyone had a good time trying. Our Lower Sixth students proved their strategic genius by winning the Connect 4 tournament (yes, it’s a sport now), and we welcomed PGCE student Shanice Turner, who brought a brilliant sense of fun and warmth to the House. Then there’s our Upper Sixth. What a group! From winning Grandma’s Footsteps with stealth and style to leading the House with imagination and heart, they’ve left an indelible mark and big ‘competitive’ shoes to fill. A huge thank you must go to Jess Newman, our outgoing Head of House, whose energy, organisation and unflappable good humour have been the driving force behind so many of this year’s successes. From masterminding quizzes and competitions to rallying the troops for Sports Day, Jess has led with quiet confidence and boundless enthusiasm. She now hands over the baton to our new House Prefects, Ed Brealey and Qiyaam Garricks-Ferguson,
who we know will continue her legacy with style and spirit. We’re also incredibly proud of all our Monitors, whose hard work and leadership help keep the School running smoothly often behind the scenes, but always with great impact. Of course, Chappel are once again extremely proud to have one their own as Head of School – well done, Sonali Prasad! As we say goodbye to our wonderful Upper Sixth, we do so with pride and always a touch of sadness. They’ve brought so much joy, creativity and spirit to Chappel, and they’ll be sorely missed. We know they’re off to do great things knowing that they will always have a home here. Lastly, a very special thank you must also go to our exceptional team of tutors - Mr Swarbrick, Mrs Parry, Mr Gardiner, Mr Ball and Ms Ruiz (and not forgetting Mrs Fitzpatrick who joined us once a week) - whose dedication, warmth and wisdom form the backbone of Chappel House. Their tireless support of our pupils, both in and out of the classroom, is nothing short of extraordinary. Whether guiding students through the ups and downs of school life, offering a listening ear, or celebrating every small success, they do it all with compassion and care. Sadly, however, we have to say a fond farewell to Mr Ball, who has been with Chappel since 2002. A true pillar of the House, his wisdom, humour and dedication will be deeply missed as he moves into a part-time role. Mr Ball gave great counsel, was always measured in his approach and consistently put his charges first. For me, as Head of Chappel, the tutors’ insight, sense of fun and unwavering commitment make everything possible. Chappel is a wonderful place simply due to our pupils and staff, I am deeply grateful for all they do. NJS
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Choir House
Creighton House
hoir House enjoyed another exceptional year, beginning with a spirited victory in the House Song Competition that set the tone for a year of success. Throughout the year, the House remained competitive in every event, be it academic, sporting or cultural. We demonstrated talent, determination and a strong sense of unity in all activities. The efforts of the whole House culminated in winning both House Cups at the end of the Summer Term; every pupil should be justly proud of their achievements. The House was led with energy and purpose by Eddie Hira and Ruby Ingles, whose leadership inspired others and fostered a culture of encouragement, kindness and resilience.
Heads of House: Tilly Cook & Ben Herbert U6 YGT: Mrs S Lucas, L6 YGT: Mrs E K Booth, FF YGT: Mr A Knights, UR YGT: Mr O Heydon, LR YGT: Mrs E Woodward, House Tutor: Mr W Joyce
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In July, we said goodbye to our departing Upper Sixth students, who left on a high note after achieving great success in their A-level exams. Their contributions to House life, whether through leadership, performance or quiet dedication, will be remembered with gratitude and admiration. As ever we have sent good citizens into the wider world and they will surely have an impact in their chosen fields. At this time, we also said a heartfelt farewell to Mrs Salkeld, who stepped down after 20 years of devoted service to Choir House. Her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering support for her tutees has shaped a generation of students. We extend a warm welcome to Mr Young who joins us a tutor. I close by saying a big thank you to all the tutors in the House. They always go the extra mile for their pupils and the House could not run without the care and energy that they put into their roles. RJJ
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t has been another exciting year in Creighton, ably led by our Heads of House, Tilly Cook and Ben Herbert.
This was even more impressive given that she ran the first couple of laps towards the back of the field, in supporting a friend.
The new academic year began with Creighton in a new location. As part of the wider movement of Houses, Creighton moved to two new locations. Our Lower Remove to Fifth Form are now in the Geography and RP block, while our Sixth Form are located in S2 and S3 in the School House block.
We continued our run of recent success in the Inter-House Maths Countdown competition. The team of James Capell, Connor Yates and Emelia Simpkin maintained our winning streak in the competition by storming to another title.
The first Inter-House event of the year was the traditional House Song Competition. We certainly gave our best and put a lot of energy in the preparation but, sadly, we were unable to repeat our success of the previous year! We are looking forward to reviving our challenge next year, and by the end of the Summer Term preparations were already underway! We have had mixed success in the other competitions, but Upper Remove boys produced a dazzling performance in the Inter-House Football Competition, where they went on to win without conceding a goal. As always, Senior Sports Day was a highlight of the year and, once more, Emelia Simpkin was true to form showing tremendous Creighton House spirit, stepping up in multiple events, including the 800m/ 1500m double. In the Removes Sports Day, Mea Haffield particularly impressed with a commanding win in the 1500m.
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Notable individual success has been achieved by Seth Essenhigh, who has continued to impress with his cricket, having another excellent season in representing Worcestershire 2nd XI. Seth was also selected to represent England U19s against India. These are phenomenal achievements, and he clearly has an exciting future ahead of him. The Sixth Form had an enjoyable social evening when we went out for a meal at a local curry house. It was great to welcome back Noah DuPont, who left last year to further his career with West Bromwich Albion. As it happened, Noah had found out the same day that he had been awarded a full-time contract with the club. This is an incredible achievement, and we all wish him the very best for his future career and look forward to watching him progress. We are looking forward to welcoming the new Lower Remove in September, along with several new members of the School community who join our Lower Sixth. WJJ
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s the academic year draws to a close, Oswald House reflects proudly on a vibrant and successful 2024–2025. From welcoming new faces to celebrating outstanding achievements, this year has been a testament to the strength, unity and enthusiasm of our house community; a community shaped by kindness, driven by ambition and enriched by creativity. We were delighted to welcome six pupils from Bright House, along with 17 new Lower Remove pupils and four new Lower Sixth pupils. Their energy, curiosity and fresh perspectives have enriched our house culture, and they’ve quickly become valued members of the Oswald family. Their kindness and willingness to engage with others have helped foster a warm and inclusive environment, while their
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or the second year in a row, we have secured second place in the House Cup. This means we have made it to the podium for the past four years, an achievement of which we are incredibly proud. This year, our Heads of House, Zach Mason and Ruby Colwell, have gone above and beyond to ensure that the Kittermaster spirit permeates throughout the School. One visible piece of evidence of this was our “Ribbons of Respect”, which we handed out to every pupil in the Senior School during Anti-Bullying Week. Our House Song was legendary, featuring a stunning rendition of Justin Bieber’s Baby, complete with props that were perfectly timed with the song. It felt like a winner to us but, unfortunately, the judges did not agree. Our Lower Removes, with their new Year Group Tutor Miss Sanders, have settled into the routines of House life brilliantly. They have enjoyed the baking rota, and we have all been able to savour tasty treats to start our day.
Oswald House ambition to contribute and grow has already made a positive impact. A heartfelt thank you goes to our outgoing Heads of House, Charlie Walker and Eva Frost. Their ability to lead with compassion and integrity has helped shape a supportive and spirited environment for all. We are also thrilled to introduce our newly appointed Heads of House Noah Gent and Griff Jolley. Their genuine curiosity about how best to serve the House promises an exciting and dynamic year ahead. Throughout the year, Oswald House has embraced a wide variety of house competitions that showcased the diverse talents and spirited camaraderie of our pupils. From the imaginative flair of the House Song and the intellectual curiosity displayed in the Quiz and Countdown, to the athleticism, teamwork shown in Netball, Hockey,
Football, and the ever-popular Tugof-War, our pupils gave their all. The Bake-Off competition revealed culinary creativity and delicious results, while the Photography competition captured moments of beauty and storytelling through the lens a true celebration of curiosity and artistic expression. None of this year’s successes would have been possible without the unwavering support and dedication of the Oswald House staff. Their kindness, encouragement and tireless efforts behind the scenes have helped create a nurturing environment where every pupil can thrive. From organising events to offering pastoral care, their commitment to the house and its values continues to inspire us all and helps make Oswald House a place of pride, belonging and achievement. GMO
Kittermaster House The Upper Removes have welcomed Mr Webster as their new Year Group Tutor. Winning Sports Day as a pastoral group was a standout moment of the year, with Perry’s dive for the line showcasing our commitment to gaining House points. Combining their points with the Lower Remove, they were just pipped to the post, taking second place overall at the Remove Sports Day 2025, a proud achievement for Kittermaster. Our Fifth Form have taken exam preparation in their stride and have balanced hard work with very busy cocurricular lives. The Lower Sixth group now has 20 students, our largest pastoral group. There is never a dull moment in the morning, and House karaoke has become a well-established morning routine to set us up for the day. We must celebrate our involvement in the Fort Royal Party this year; a performance of the Gruffalo (with full costumes) was a moment to cherish. We look forward to Will Dorrell and Clarisse Cinao taking over the reins as Heads of House for next year. I feel we are in safe hands.
Mr Wilson’s Upper Sixth group bid an emotional farewell to the House on Leavers’ Day. They may have been small in number, but they were a formidable force and a close-knit group. They have all embarked on new adventures with the confidence and character forged through the daily routines we embed in House time. Stay fabulous, team! My thanks, as ever, go to Miss Sanders, Mrs Fellows, Mrs Shepherd, Mr Sharp, Mr Wilson and Mr Webster for their generosity and can-do approach to all we do in House. We very much look forward to the year ahead. CMN
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his past academic year has been one full of energy and achievement for School House, and James and I have been filled with admiration for the commitment and enthusiasm shown by every year group. We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to Harry Waters and Grace Earp for their outstanding leadership over the past year as Heads of House.
School House Hermione Pratt, who competed in — and won — the Severn Shield. In addition, many of our senior rugby players played a key role in the fantastic victory against RGS in the Modus Cup. A small team of senior footballers also took part in the highly competitive Inter-House football competition, and it would be remiss not to mention Max Thurgood as our top goal scorer. Many senior players also represented the School in the Challenge Cup. Beyond this, School House competed fiercely in events such as Tug-of-War and Connect Four.
School House has excelled in every corner of school life — academically, athletically and artistically. We celebrated Robert Lee’s spectacular animation, which emerged as the winner of the Upper Remove Futures Project, while Emily Azzopardi represented the school at the Worcester Arts Festival. Many of our pupils also contributed to school productions, orchestras and music examinations throughout the year.
This year, Upper Sixth Bright House joined School House following the closure of Bright. They embraced House life wholeheartedly, taking part in competitions, Sports Day, and even the House Song contest. The pupils of Bright House brought fresh energy and enthusiasm, and we greatly valued their involvement in House events.
We have also enjoyed exceptional sporting success, with impressive performances from Daisy Fitton and
Academically, we enjoyed great success in the school quiz, with a team of two Lower Sixth and two Fifth Form pupils
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he year started brightly with our new Lower Remove cohort, under the expert tutelage of Mrs Miller-Symonds, tackling the transition day activities with real gusto. Will Fleming and Joe Bannister did sterling work over those first few weeks to ensure that all the new members felt full integrated before we came together for the first House Song rehearsals. Annable Kenny took on the challenge of leading this annual adventure and quickly established an impressive rapport with the MWT (“Mighty Wulstan Team”). Our ambitious
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leading us to victory. We would also like to congratulate everyone who sat examinations this year and we wish you the very best for the future. A huge thank you goes to Mr Pearson and all the tutors for their tremendous efforts in providing such a welcoming and supportive environment in which to start each school day. A special mention also goes to Mrs Matthews, who joined both School House and the Chemistry Department this year. Looking ahead to next year, we are excited to build on the strong legacy left by Grace and Harry. We look forward to continuing to celebrate every success within the House, no matter how big or small, and ensuring that each member of School House feels seen, valued and motivated. Thank you to all pupils and staff for yet another busy year full of achievements and fun. Jasmine Shukla and James Dehmas (School House Prefects 2025-2026)
Wulstan House rendition of Shooting Stars was certainly enjoyable but ended up being about two practices short! Amongst a plethora of House competitions, the Junior and Senior Sports Days were both blessed by excellent weather and strong turnouts from all our groups. Our new Lower Removes continued their excellent start by coming top in their section, and the Fifth Form girls finished a commendable second despite significant absences; I am fairly confident that Sophie Guest now holds the unofficial record for the number of events taken part in!
Two new year social evenings proved to be highly enjoyable, the second of these allowing yours truly to show-case his Space Invaders prowess, refined over hundreds of teenage hours in the salubrious arcades of Weston-Super-Mare! Huge thanks go to Will and Joe for the superb support they offered us throughout the year and all the Wulstan tutors for their constant professionalism, positivity and top company. MCP
Lower Years
2024–2025 was a busy and highly successful year for the Lower Years. The Lower Fourth pupils settled in quickly, while the Upper Fourth enjoyed their status as the oldest in the Lower Years and set an excellent example. The playground was full of noise, games and enjoyment, and assemblies were varied, fostering a strong sense of community.
Monday merit cookies and certificates were introduced to better celebrate hard work and progress. Other initiatives included: increased opportunities for pupil voice, an excellent uptake of the Arts Award, the reinstatement of Academic Enrichment Sessions, and the further development of the summer revision programme.
As ever, pupils enjoyed team-building activities at Blackwell Centre, a wonderful Sports Day, a lovely Prizegiving ceremony, the Form Song, a trip to Paris, and so much more. The Upper Fourth pupils leave with our very best wishes as they continue their King’s journey in the Houses, and we look forward to welcoming a brand-new cohort of Lower Fourths in September. RAC
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his year, the Middle Years at King’s have once again been both busy and exciting in equal measure. The academic year started off positively, as pupils returned with enthusiasm, energy and a palpable desire to succeed. The new Lower Remove cohort quickly found their footing and the House Music Competition saw Choir House take the crown in a fierce but good-spirited competition, setting the tone for a fantastic year ahead. Sporting achievements have been a highlight, with multiple pupils excelling in various disciplines. There have been superb levels of participation across all sports this year, and the successes and highlights of the Middle Years teams can be read in the sports section of this magazine. As always, the Autumn Term started with a bang: the Fifth Form pupils received their DofE Bronze Awards, and the Sixth Form Open Morning generated excitement about future prospects. The Fifth Form Geography field trip and the Spanish Exchange were also highlights of the term. December 2024 was a month of giving and celebration. The Middle Years’ Christmas charity initiative contributed to collecting over 350 stockings for the
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Middle Years local charity - Home for Good – based in Worcestershire. The School musical White Christmas was a hit with many of the Middle Years pupils – notably Sophia Boyd, Amelia Walmsley (who achieved national recognition through this role), Tigo Marskell and Henry Friend - taking lead roles in the production. The Lower Removes enjoyed a fun-filled evening of golf and camaraderie at Mulligans which further helped to cultivate burgeoning relationships across the year group (and develop a few sporting rivalries along the way!) Spring Term brought a flurry of activities despite the “blue” month of January. The Fifth Form coped admirably with the demands of the mock exams, whilst a new social event was added to the calendar – Retroids Arcade Experience – which proved a big hit with the Upper Remove pupils. As always, there was success in various sporting disciplines including hurdles, swimming, netball and rowing. Throughout these months and into the Summer Term, the Middle Years at King’s demonstrated a strong sense of community, academic excellence and extra-curricular engagement. The dedication of the staff and the enthusiasm of the pupils created a positive and enriching environment, fostering both personal and academic growth.
In addition, the careers provision has remained a key focus, with various events and initiatives aimed at helping pupils plan their futures. The study skills sessions delivered by Elevate Education, and the relaunch of Unifrog, proved instrumental in supporting pupils in their academic journey and future career paths. Furthermore, it was brilliant to crown Rob Lee (School) and Alice Davies (Chappel) as the Upper Remove ‘Futures Project’ winners. The Summer Term saw a continuation of the academic excellence demonstrated by the Middle Years’ pupils, whilst offering them the opportunity to further explore social and co-curricular engagements. The Senior and Removes Sports Days were highlights that punctuated the end of the year. Similarly, the Lower Remove activity day to The Cotswold Country Park and Beach provided a fitting end to the Lower Remove social calendar – an event that was wonderful, wild and wet! The Middle Years had a fantastic year, with numerous achievements and activities which reflect the School’s commitment to excellence and community spirit. The Middle Years Team
Sixth Form
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he 2024–25 academic year has been a transformative and inspiring period for King’s Worcester Sixth Form, characterised by innovation, achievement and a deepening sense of community. From the completion of major redevelopment projects to outstanding academic and co-curricular successes, the Sixth Form continues to thrive as a dynamic and forward-thinking environment. The official opening of the Weston Sixth Form Centre has provided students with a purpose-built space that reflects the ambition and energy of Sixth Form life. Café 1541, dedicated study areas in the Bolland and Pimley Rooms, and a newly launched Careers Suite have quickly become central to the daily rhythm of Sixth Form life. These facilities have enhanced both the academic and social experience for students, offering spaces that support independent study, collaboration and future planning. Further improvements were made over the summer with the remodelling of School House, which now accommodates enlarged classrooms and improved facilities for Economics, Business and Psychology. These subjects are now fully embedded within the Sixth Form Centre, reinforcing its role as the academic and cultural heart of Sixth Form life. The curriculum continues to evolve, offering students a broad and balanced education. Alongside traditional
A-levels, students have engaged with a range of Elective qualifications, including Sports Leadership, Core Maths, EPQ, British Sign Language and TEFL, Digital Skills and a comprehensive Life Skills programme. These options allow students to tailor their education to their interests and future goals, developing a diverse and transferable skill set. This year’s Oxbridge success has been particularly noteworthy, with several students securing offers in highly competitive subjects. Their achievements reflect the dedication of both students and staff, and the strength of our academic support systems. The Careers Suite has become a cornerstone of Sixth Form life, offering personalised guidance for university and apprenticeship applications, mock interviews, CV workshops, work experience placements and support for gap year planning. Whether students are applying to UK-based universities exploring international universities, or considering alternative pathways, the Careers Department ensures that every individual receives tailored support aligned with their aspirations. Student leaders have been instrumental in organising House events, competitions, and community outreach initiatives. The Charity Committee, led by Sixth Formers, continues to make a meaningful impact, with highlights including the Fort Royal Party for local children and the Senior Citizens’ Christmas Party. These
events exemplify the compassion and initiative of our students and remain cherished traditions within our wider community. The co-curricular life of the Sixth Form has flourished this year. Our sports teams have delivered exceptional performances across a range of disciplines, including rowing, rugby, netball, football and hockey. Successes at both regional and national levels speak to the talent and dedication of our students and coaching staff. In the Arts, Sixth Formers have shone in music and drama, with standout performances in the Senior Show, ensemble concerts, recitals and choir events. These opportunities allow students to express themselves creatively and contribute to the cultural life of the school. The peer mentoring programme has expanded this year, with more Sixth Formers trained to support pupils in the Lower Years. This initiative fosters a nurturing environment and reinforces the values of empathy, leadership and responsibility. As we celebrate the achievements of our current cohort and bid farewell to our newest Old Vigornians, we look ahead with confidence. King’s Worcester Sixth Form continues to prepare students not only for academic success but for life beyond school— with resilience, leadership and a strong sense of purpose. JOH
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School Council 2024-2025 Now in its second year under the refreshed, pupil-led project format, the School Council has continued to flourish as a meaningful platform for student voice and leadership. Representatives from each year group met regularly throughout the academic year, working collaboratively on the theme: “Promoting an Inclusive Community at King’s.” This shared focus inspired a range of thoughtful and impactful deliverables, all rooted in the School’s core values. A highlight of the year was a visit to the Worcester Warriors Foundation, where pupils engaged in workshops exploring inclusion, resilience and community engagement. The experience encouraged pupils to reflect with humility on the diverse experiences of others, while also sparking creative ideas for how to bring those lessons back to King’s.
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Throughout the year, School Council representatives demonstrated ambition and initiative by leading assemblies across all sections of the School. These assemblies encouraged open dialogue and promoted kindness, helping to foster a culture where every pupil feels seen, heard and valued. The School Council also delivered a workshop on allyship and identity to Year Five pupils from King’s St Alban’s, equipping pupils with the tools to be active, empathetic members of the school community. To improve communication and accessibility, the representatives updated the School Council Firefly page, transforming it into a hub for resources, updates and pupil feedback. One of the most creative and practical outcomes of the year was the development of an Allyship Toolbox, a student-designed resource offering
guidance on how to support peers and promote everyday acts of kindness and respect. This year’s project has not only strengthened the role of the School Council but has also made a tangible contribution to building a more inclusive, resilient and compassionate community at King’s. The Council looks forward to building on this momentum in the year ahead, continuing to lead with humility, creativity and ambition. GMO
KING’S HAWFORD PREP
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would like to look at the children’s education at King’s Hawford as a mirror, not a window. Looking out of a window to compare yourself with others distracts from the reflection that matters most: your past self. Real growth is when you look in the mirror and see someone who’s evolved— not better than others, but better than before. At King’s Hawford, we do not measure success by whether you are ahead of the person next to you. We measure it by how far you have come from the first chapter you read, by how much you have grown in curiosity, character and confidence. Growth isn’t a scoreboard — it’s a journey, and each journey belongs to each individual child. Every child here is writing their own chapter, painting their own picture, climbing to the top of their own mound. Our primary job here is not to race each other — we are here to become curious thinkers, caring friends and confident learners, shaped by kindness and courage. We have planted hundreds of trees over the last couple of years at King’s Hawford, all of which grow at different rates and in different conditions. An Oak tree doesn’t worry about how fast the Willow is growing — it just reaches for the sky in its own time, and our children are no different.
Community
The strength of a community such as ours can easily defined by the relationship between a school and its parents. Nothing demonstrates this better than over 200 of us coming together at the Summer Ball to socialise and, in doing so, celebrate friendship and partnership. The fact that 20 of my colleagues wanted to mix with the parents spoke volumes about how positively they feel about parental involvement in the life of our School. In ever-more testing times for our sector, we are in as robust a position as I could wish for, and the parent’s support in working together with us is key in that, and not something I will ever take for granted. A special thank you must go to our formidable Parents’ Association, again under the leadership of Gemma Carlisle, who have once more surpassed themselves in the scale and organisation of so many great events. In a competitive marketplace, the intangible togetherness of our community really is one of our USPs.
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Annual highlights
Our annual highlights once again make for an extraordinary collection. In November, our Inspection really did show off the very best of our School. I hope I was able to convey my customary optimism towards colleagues when we got the call, but it was inevitable that I would have some doubts. Would the inspectors see what I see every day? How would the children (and staff) behave? Would they really have enough time to truly get under the skin of the School in the time they were here? When the lead inspector asked me to move forward her taxi by three hours on the last morning as she had “seen enough,” was this a good thing? I need not have worried – some of the feedback we received was exceptional and I was extremely proud of how our whole community pulled together over the three days. Direct feedback included, “Leaders consistently provide opportunities for pupils across the School to think and learn for themselves…they develop the resilience to accept mistakes as a learning opportunity. This has a strong positive impact on pupils’ selfconfidence and self-esteem. Teachers plan engaging lessons which, alongside high expectations, motivate pupils to try hard and present their work with pride. They plan activities that enable pupils to think critically and work independently and collaboratively. Pupils have extensive opportunities to take on roles of responsibility. At King’s Hawford, elected pupils discuss different areas of school life and drive change and development across the school.” Had I had the opportunity to write our report, I could not have put it much better myself! In December, Storm Darragh left the whole site without any power for 32 hours with the School being at the point of moving to the city centre for the next day’s teaching thanks to brilliant crossFoundation co-ordination and in the end not needed, as power was restored late on Sunday night. The many offers
we had as a family, of hot meals or beds for the night, were hugely appreciated, and once again showed the kindness of our community. In truth, it was an excellent opportunity to keep the barbecue going for 24 hours. Our productions have once again stolen the show with Santa’s setbacks, The Wizard of Oz and The X Factory involving over 200 children and making memories to last a lifetime. We have again raised over £10000 for our school charities Spinal Muscular Atrophy UK, Redwings Horse Sanctuary and Project Gambia, and further strengthened our links with the Gambia as Miss Lane and her son Tyler travelled there to volunteer and train local teachers in the schools that we support. The sporting results have been customarily exceptional with our U11 cricket girls winning IAPS for the second year running at Bristol Grammar School and contributing an unprecedented six County players to Worcestershire in the process. We swept the board at Malvern College’s Aquathon before our own Hawford take on the event at Watersedge, including an open water swim which pushed the boundaries doing it differently, and better, than the local competition. Musical brilliance has been evident throughout the year, starting with the international visits of St Hilda’s College from Buenos Aires, and the opportunity to sing with the worldrenowned Drakensberg Boys Choir in the Cathedral, which will live with me forever. Qualification to the National Choir Finals in Birmingham Symphony Hall meant we were judged as one of the Top 16 school choirs in the country. Our residentials programme has again encouraged our children and staff out of their comfort zone, this year with the York Vikings trip for Year Four added into the mix, with all the rest.
Staff
I am once again hugely indebted to several staff with whom I work closest. The front office team have again surpassed themselves throughout the course of the year, providing a gold standard of service to anyone who contacts or visits the School. On a personal level, they all genuinely brighten my day and make the most difficult moments of the job just that little bit easier. Thank you to Gemma, Melanie and Laura for all your support this year. I could not do my job as I do without your support and sense of fun. Nick Vaughan spent much of last summer putting his enormous skillset to use in restoring our pavilion to its former glory, and producing the magnificent cover on the Reception patio, ensuring children can play out and learn in the most inclement weather. Andy Callow has again dealt with storms and floods whilst preparing our wonderful pitches and perhaps the biggest bonfire in living memory. The School is in a good place because we have stability within the staff body. For the third year running I
have been able to rely on a superb Senior Team, in addition to brilliant teachers, all of whom have made a mighty contribution to the running of the school. Oli Roberts has again led the Pre-Prep department with great assuredness and expertise, ensuring our youngest learners take their first steps to being King’s Ready. Richard Cook has overseen the academic programme, contributed hugely to the inspection readiness team, and ensured that our migration to a new IT management system has been as easy as possible for all colleagues. Caroline Knight has worked hard to ensure pastoral processes are as child-friendly as they can be and coordinated the house system and our playtime buddy scheme, as well as ensuring pupil voice is heard through the wellbeing committee. Lorne Stigant has again always put children first in his planning of the calendar and the myriad of special events that make our school what it is. Being busy and energetic is what we do best and a huge amount of thought goes into the planning and organisation of each. I am very grateful to all the staff for their efforts in facilitating so many opportunities for the children.
We have a number of staff to say goodbye to. Hannah Odam leaves us after two years as girls’ Sports Gap for an exciting adventure in the Southern Hemisphere. She has grown immeasurably in confidence and stature in the time spent with us. Elliot Brown leaves us after one year as boys’ Sport Gap, having made a very positive impact with his kind and gentle approach. Tanya O’Neill returned to us for a year as Marketing Assistant and we say goodbye and thank you to her for all her hard work this year. Rebecca Gilmour leaves us after a year in post as Early Years Practitioner to return to a teaching position, fulfilling an ambition to work with children with additional needs. Celia Rawnsley arrived for a term and stayed for two decades. She arrived in April 2003 fresh from travelling in New Zealand and was only supposed to stay a term but, based on her performance in the first term, was appointed full time. In her time at Hawford, Celia has been a form teacher in all four years of the Prep school, was Assistant Head for a number of years, and headed up multiple subjects, including RP and History. As ever, and this is a common theme at our School, it is the contribution away from direct teaching that sets exceptional staff apart. Celia can turn her hand to all sorts of crafty activities - sewing, knitting, book binding – she is enormously creative. A capable seamstress, she is famous for performing last minute costume fixes for productions and even on staff clothing in emergencies! She is a baker extraordinaire - her cakes, and especially her brownies, are world renowned; everyone looks forward to it being her birthday as she provides glorious home bakes for the staff room. She has run cookery clubs and skills session over the years that have been so popular that they were always oversubscribed. Celia taught both Hamish and Megan Stigant whilst they were at Hawford. As a parent, Lorne had nothing but admiration for her kind, measured and patient approach to teaching. When Lorne joined the staff at KH, on his first day, he saw a completely different side to her. At the end of a Maths lesson she asked a young lad in Year Three, who
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had been messing around a little, to stay behind for a chat. She then gave him a telling off that Lorne never imagined her to be capable of. As he left, with his tail between his legs, she turned to Lorne, seeing the bemused look on his face and said, “It’s okay, that’s my son Tom.” Her pastoral care is second-to-none and her advice and support for colleagues has been phenomenal. A fun, hardworking, reliable colleague, with a can-do attitude; we really are going to miss her. I am grateful to the many colleagues who have shared their memories with me in anticipation of this tribute. Celia has been the life and soul of the staff body in her time here. Thank you, Celia, from us all, you go to Hong Kong with our love and best wishes.
Leavers
Our Year Six children have exemplified personal growth, this year. Out of 35, 20 children have achieved an award or scholarship to their senior school of choice. This is a marvellous achievement but it is not this statistic that defines them as a year group, or as individuals. It is that they have each forged their own path and discovered their own personal strengths, with all of them leaving here confident about their next step, having been steered through the busiest year of their school lives yet, by the brilliant Year Six team of Mrs Atkins, Mrs Rawnsley, and latterly Mrs Gregory. It is with this personal growth in mind, that this year we will reintroduce an old school tradition, the award of colours. We have five values which steer our academic and
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co-curriculum and underpin our vision for the children to be curious, caring and confident. We have decided that each Year Six leaver will be issued with a values colour and relevant book that best befits their time at King’s Hawford. This colour can join the other badges on their cardigans and sweaters and be kept as another memento of their time at King’s Hawford. In Mr Cook’s time as a pupil here at Hawford, the award of school colours signified very special recognition, and as we approach our 70th anniversary, we would like to revisit this principle once again. I will finish with a few words for our Year Six leavers. I obviously feel a very special connection to them as a year group, and I am delighted that they will leave here as our most recent ambassadors for Hawford. In their time here, they have made us smile, laugh, cry and feel enormous parental pride. They have also ensured that I have always remained grounded in their presence. There are many different analogies I could use to describe them as a year group but I have settled on one involving hot water. As they know from their Science lessons and Mrs Redman’s ubiquitous super noodles, hot water affects food in different ways. If you were a carrot you might lose your colour and you would undoubtedly soften, whereas if you were an egg, you would harden. As individuals, and as a group, I am pleased to say they are neither of these. Throughout their time here at King’s Hawford, they have performed most like coffee beans. When a coffee
bean interacts with hot water (in this case, the School), it lifts it, it infuses it and it makes it better. Each of them has done this in their own way whilst here. Lifted us, infused us with your positive idiosyncrasies and made us better as a whole. At the start of this final half term I asked them a question – “How do you want to be remembered?” Finn, Iza, Thomas, Arthur and Jess might remember back to Year Five when we had the very special opportunity to travel to Solihull School to listen to one of my heroes, the great naturalist and primatologist Dr Jane Goodall. She once said that “What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” They will be remembered here as a group who has left their indelible, positive mark on us all, and having made a difference. I feel so priviledged to be part of such a supportive community. Another hero of mine, Winnie the Pooh, perhaps best summed up our collective feelings with the following - “How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” As our pupils leave their very own Hundred Acre Wood, I encourage them to look back with gratitude, and forward with excitement, for all that is to come. Thank you all for your support throughout this year. Tom Butt, Headmaster, King’s Hawford Speech Day, June 28th 2025
KING’S ST ALBAN’S PREP
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O
ne of the aims of any good prep school is for children to experience a wide breadth of opportunities and to try their hand at as much as possible during their time at the school. At KSA, we often describe this as a ‘banquet of opportunity’: the idea that we lay before children a rich array of experiences, whether in sport, the performing arts, the creative arts, charity and community work, and so much more besides. We hope they will sample as much as possible, sparking imagination, shaping future pursuits, and inspiring lifelong interests. I have no doubt that each of our leaving Year Six children this year will be able to recall a wide range of experiences and opportunities that have come their way during their time at King’s St Alban’s. Some will have formed lasting memories; some may have ignited new passions; others may, in time, be forgotten. However, all these experiences, whether memorable or not, will have shaped each child into the person they are today. A rich offering of opportunities helps us to understand something about ourselves, to feel comfortable and confident in who we are, and to grow into who we truly can be. We hope that an education here will enable you to recognise your strengths and attributes, whilst understanding the importance of remaining humble; and to acknowledge your weaknesses, without allowing them to define you or limit you. Albert Einstein said that education can only be measured by what remains when one has forgotten what one learned in school. Likewise, as the Year Sixes leave the school, there will be something of the King’s way which will have shaped their character and ensured they are ‘King’s Ready’, to make the big step into their senior school education.
Staffing
We have been blessed with fantastic Gap Assistants this year — not two, but three. After a highly successful couple of terms at King’s St Alban’s, Francesca Sly left us at half term in the summer to go travelling, and we are very grateful to Maddie Worth, who worked in our Sports Department for the final half term of the school year. We
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benefitted enormously from Francesca and Maddie’s warmth and generous natures, and we thank them for all they have given to the Sports Department here. Will Rowley worked as a Gap Assistant throughout the year, primarily supporting boys’ games, and his contribution to life at KSA has been enormous. We have been incredibly fortunate to benefit from his talent, energy, and positive attitude, and we wish him every success as he moves on to Stowe School to complete his teacher training. Rachel Byng leaves our Nursery department after five years, and we thank her for the warmth and dedication she has shown to our very youngest pupils during her time at the school. We also said goodbye to Sarah Pugh, our Nursery Manager, who leaves us after six years. We owe Sarah an enormous debt of gratitude for all that she has done to establish our Nursery at King’s St Alban’s and to develop it during her time here. Sarah leaves us to relocate closer to her family in Oxfordshire and we wish her every happiness. Eleanor Maju has worked at King’s St Alban’s for the past 16 years, teaching across several year groups in Key Stage 2, most recently as one of our Year 6 form teachers. Elly has now left to take up a full-time position at King’s Hawford and so she very much remains within the King’s family. We would like to thank Elly for everything she has contributed during her time with us: for being such a wonderfully supportive colleague and for the tremendous care and dedication she has shown to the children. They have all benefitted from her calm, reassuring approach and her nurturing presence. We wish Elly every happiness in her new role with colleagues just up the road at King’s Hawford. Jo Clark retires at the end of this year, having worked at King’s St Alban’s for the past 27 years and it is fair to say that her contribution to the school has been nothing short of immense. Jo has inspired countless children and instilled in so many of them a genuine love of sport through her boundless energy, enthusiasm and dedication. Towards the end of the Summer Term, as part of
our Celebration Assembly, we showed Mrs Clark a film that we had secretly been recording, capturing messages of thanks from many voices across the King’s Foundation. What was striking was not only the outpouring of love and affection from her colleagues, but also just how deeply she cares about each and every child in the School. She truly sees them as individuals, nurturing their unique abilities and strengths. Jo has been a much-loved colleague and will be sorely missed, but we wish her and her husband every happiness in their retirement. Whilst it was time to say goodbye to various colleagues, we also welcomed Hilary Auty into her role as one of our school secretaries. As a King’s parent herself, and a former chorister parent, Hils is no stranger to the School. We are so fortunate to have the warmth, kindness and care that she has already brought to our community.
Academic Life
Academic excellence is of course a key component of life at King’s St Alban’s and again we are so proud of our children’s academic successes this year. Following the scholarship interviews for King’s Senior School earlier in the year, 22 awards were given to King’s St Alban’s pupils. At the start of the year, we changed the structure of the School’s timetable to enable us to expand our curriculum offering. This change allowed us to introduce more opportunities for sport, particularly in Years Three and Four; Mrs Kilbey introduced Spanish into the Lower Prep years with a view that this will move up through the School. Similarly, Mrs Etherington has worked hard to develop the School’s PSHE curriculum by introducing a new scheme of work that provides a programme of weekly lessons throughout the School. Mrs White has launched the emotional support programme ELSA, and many children are already benefitting from the initiative. We have also installed a brand-new Computer Suite and our ELSA Room as a dedicated pastoral space.
The Arts
The Arts have once again flourished at King’s St Alban’s, weaving creativity and expression into the fabric of everyday school life. From music and drama to dance and visual arts, 2024 2025 has been a vibrant celebration of talent, collaboration, and joy. The musical calendar began with a truly unforgettable experience in September, when Year Five and Year Six pupils performed alongside the internationally acclaimed Drakensberg Boys’ Choir at Worcester Cathedral. The choir’s powerful harmonies captivated the audience, and our pupils rose to the occasion, joining in traditional African songs that brought the evening to a rousing close. Throughout the year, informal concerts have continued to be a cherished feature of school life. These after-school events offered pupils a chance to showcase their developing talents in a relaxed setting, while College Hall concerts brought together the entire Prep School. Choirs and ensembles worked diligently in rehearsals, culminating in performances that demonstrated both skill and spirit. The end-of-term Carol Service was a particularly moving highlight. Beginning with a haunting solo verse of Once in Royal David’s City, the service unfolded with warmth and reverence. A lively rendition of While Shepherds Rocked added a joyful twist, much to the delight of the Cathedral clergy. The Latin choral piece O Magnum Mysterium was performed in three
parts, adding a layer of mystery and beauty to the nativity celebration. Spring Term ushered in more musical excitement. The Foundation Epiphany Service at the Cathedral featured a stirring performance of Malcolm Archer’s One Star, setting the tone for weeks filled with music. The annual House Singing Competition brought out the competitive spirit in pupils and staff alike, with Armstrong House taking top honours for their energetic rendition of Any Dream Will Do. Beyond performances, pupils engaged in enriching musical experiences through concert trips and workshops. Junk drumming sessions and Cathedral concerts added variety and depth to their musical education, while drama and dance continued to thrive in parallel. The Arts at King’s St Alban’s are not just events on a calendar - they are a living, breathing part of the School’s identity. This year’s programme has been a testament to the dedication of staff and the enthusiasm of pupils, who together have created moments of magic that will be remembered long after the final curtain falls.
Sport
This year at King’s St Alban’s has been another remarkable journey of sporting achievement, teamwork, and personal growth. Across a wide range of sports, our pupils have demonstrated enthusiasm, resilience, and a commitment to excellence that has made us all proud. From rugby
and hockey to football, netball, cricket, swimming, and athletics, every child has contributed to a vibrant and successful sporting year. The rugby term was packed with energy and development across all age groups. The U8 and U9 teams participated in tag rugby and contact rugby festivals, focusing on movement, spatial awareness, and teamwork. Their positivity and eagerness to learn laid strong foundations for future success. The U10 and U11 squads maintained high attendance and commitment, achieving pleasing results throughout the term. Despite the cancellation of the IAPS Rugby Tournament due to weather, the U11s proudly represented the school at Millfield, Hymers College, and Rosslyn Park National Sevens. A standout moment was securing second place at the Hymers Tournament, showcasing their hard work and determination. Hockey began on the first day of term, giving the girls valuable early experience. Fixtures and tournaments across all age groups provided opportunities for skill development. Year 6s participation in the U11 IAPS tournament at Cheltenham College highlighted their resilience and teamwork. Despite injuries and tough competition, their sportsmanship shone through. Hockey has flourished, with enthusiastic participation in lessons, fixtures, and clubs both within and outside school. Football continued to thrive, with pupils showing commitment and progress across all year groups. Weekly fixtures ensured ample playing time. The U10 and U11 squads had an exciting term, notably competing in the ISFA Tournament at Clifton College and other events at Winterfold and Slingpool. A memorable moment was the nail-biting penalty shootout final against Wolverhampton Grammar School. We were especially proud to host our first-ever U11 girls football fixture against Winterfold, marking a significant milestone for girls’ football at King’s. Netball saw another successful season, with Year Six girls building on last year’s achievements. At the IAPS small schools’ competition, they won every match except the final, finishing second overall. Their performance at the IAPS regional competition at Wrekin College
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earned them a place in the finals at Bryanston, where they triumphed in the Bowl competition. Their achievements were even featured in Worcester News. Younger pupils also enjoyed regular fixtures, culminating in the U18 King’s vs RGS match at Worcester Arena, where Year Six girls participated in a special training session with Severn Stars players. Cricket was another highlight, with boys and girls playing together and participating in numerous fixtures. The selection of four girls and one boy to represent the county was a proud achievement. Hardball and softball tournaments showcased the pupils’ skills and sportsmanship, making it a truly rewarding term. Swimming returned with a full programme, including exciting galas and strong performances at the IAPS Championships and ESSA Relays. The Inter-House Aquathlon was a standout event, involving every child in swimming and running for house points. Participation in the Malvern College Aquathlon and a new open water event at Water’s Edge demonstrated the determination and adaptability of our pupils. We look forward to building on this success next year. Athletics continued to grow, with enthusiastic participation across all year groups. A highlight was the national Prep Schools qualifying event in Stourport, where pupils competed with determination despite the heat. Their conduct and achievements made us incredibly proud. A huge well done to all our children for their incredible enthusiasm and effort throughout the year - you’ve made us all proud. To our parents, thank you for your constant support, encouragement, and presence on the sidelines. Your involvement truly makes a difference. One of the major improvements for this academic year has been the opening of the newly refurbished Swimming Pool, which was out of service for most of the last academic year. Swimming is not only something which is loved by so many children at King’s St Alban’s many of whom swim here three or four times a week - it is also an essential life skill and a huge part of the identity of King’s St Alban’s. It is great to have had this incredible facility back in use this year.
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Charity
There is a wonderfully strong community focus at King’s St Alban’s and giving the children opportunity to see the world beyond our own horizons is a key part of the character building of KSA pupils. Following the reopening of the swimming pool, a real highlight of the year was the sponsored swimathon in the Autumn term which raised nearly £4000 for the Royal Life Saving Society, which I think is a record for an individual charity event at KSA. Thanks to this and many other charity efforts throughout the year, including cake sales, sponsorship events and nonuniform days, adding in the Pre-Prep Sports Day cake sale, the current total for the School’s charitable fundraising for the year, stands at just over £8500, benefitting 16 different charities. With the Year Six Young Enterprise fete on Monday there is still more to come, but we should feel enormous pride in reaching such a handsome total. We are so grateful to all the children for their hard work and to Lisa Kilbey who has led our charity initiatives once again this year. I think our charity efforts deserve a round of applause.
Choristers
As the choir school here in Worcester, we are so proud of the work of our cathedral choristers. There is something special about the daily rhythm of chorister life and their dedication ensures that exceptional musical standards are the norm as part of the cathedral’s daily ministry. We have greatly enjoyed working with Mr Hudson and Mr Freestone again this year and we sincerely thank them for their unwavering support and dedication to the development of our choristers. We also remember our dear friend and colleague, John Paul Hoskins, our Cathedral’s Canon Precentor, who passed away so suddenly in April. JP was a huge supporter of King’s St Alban’s and of our cathedral choristers. He is sorely missed by all of us.
Parents’ Social Group
School is only one part of the jigsaw which supports children’s development and we place great emphasis on the importance of the triangular relationship between school, parents and children. Children will always succeed most when there is a culture of strong support, open dialogue and mutual respect between home and school. We are all so grateful that this
culture is so well established here at KSA. I would like to thank all the parents for their ongoing support of the school and their children’s learning. A key part of this is the work of the Parents’ Social Group, who have once again gone above and beyond by organising events throughout the year, including the Halloween Party hosted in College Hall. A particular highlight for all of us was the Harry-Potter-themed World Book Day, complete with chocolate frogs, wizard cards and a celebrityguest - Professor Dumbledore. So, we want to thank Liz, Hayley, Stacey, Nish, Laura, Felicity, Anne and Serina, as well as all other volunteers who have helped at events, for all that they have done in supporting the children.
Moving On
As part of our programme to ensure children leave KSA King’s Ready, this year we introduced our new end-ofyear leadership programme, which we have called ‘The Nine Dot Challenge’. In this we have asked the children in Year Six to take on new and varied challenges, including: • Host an afternoon tea party at the School for local elderly residents; • Learn basic First Aid; • Complete a STEM challenge; • Experience an introduction to CCF; • To try your hand at search and rescue and rescue; • Camp out in School Gardens – and I think it’s fair to say that camping out on the longest, and hottest day of the year, also tested my resilience, as well as Mr Kent and Mrs Hand’s. Especially impressive was how well the Year Sixes all embraced our new Young Enterprise project in the last few weeks of the Summer Term, in which they were asked to set up a business ready for a small fete in the last week of term. As part of this, Mr Kent took on the role of a dragon by listening to Dragons’ Den-style business pitches; hearing everything ranging from personalised coasters, plenty of sweetthemed ventures, and even home-made perfumes. We owe Mrs Beauchamp a great deal of thanks for all her efforts in making this end-of-year programme so superb, alongside everything else she does in school. Thank you, Year Six, for working hard to conquer the Nine Dot Challenge over the last few weeks, and for everything they have given to KSA during your time here. We wish them every success and happiness as they move on to the next chapter of their lives. Nick Hawker, Headmaster, July 2025
OLD VIGORNIANS, DEVELOPMENT TRUST & ARCHIVES
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Barnabas Distinguished OVs, who have excelled in their chosen professions, are invited by the Head to join The Barnabas Group and speak to the School about their experiences, lessons learned and the encouragement they feel able to pass on as a result. Founded in 2008, the group is named after St Barnabas, the “son of encouragement” (Acts of the Apostles Ch.4, v.36). The full articles on our Barnabas Speakers and their visits, can be found at www.ksw.org.uk/alumni/clubs-and-groups/the-barnabas-group/
I
n March 2025, King’s welcomed OV Drew Benvie (K 85-96) back to the School, and into The Barnabas Group. Drew is the founder and CEO of global social media agency Battenhall, which is based in London and has offices in New York, Los Angeles, Asia and across the UK. Battenhall delivers social media, advertising, marketing and PR for global brands, and the company has been named 30 times as its industry‘s agency of the year. Drew has himself been named the industry’s top CEO by Campaign Magazine, The Sabres and by the PRCA. Outside of work, Drew launched a non-profit in 2023 called Raise (Responsible Actions in Social for Everyone), which campaigns to make social media safer. At King’s, Drew was head of Kittermaster and a Monitor. He played in the 1st XV rugby team, captained the athletics team, and was one of the first school basketball team members. On Barnabas Day, Drew spoke to the entire School in Worcester Cathedral, sharing memories of his time at King’s. His message resonated with the pupils, as he recounted his academic and cocurricular journey, including changing his university degree path - a reassuring reminder for pupils that plans can evolve. Drew also encouraged them to seize opportunities beyond academics, offering inspiration for their futures. Drew’s career was shaped by identifying emerging trends, taking risks and surrounding himself with inspiring individuals. This formula meant Drew led the social media evolution, literally writing the Wikipedia page, and continues to be at the forefront of social media and AI, while expanding his award-winning business reach across the globe.
During his visit, Drew met with Heads of
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School, Amelia Venables and Eric Dykes and Acting Head Dr Alison Oliver (Hon OV), who presented him with the Barnabas Shield in recognition of his achievements and his contributions to the School community. He also spoke with several groups of pupils. Fifth Form English pupils discussed AI and creativity with him, while Computer Science A-level students explored the ethical challenges and technical aspects of AI. Drew also met with Pranav Mayilvahanan, who is focusing on AI for his Extended Project Qualification, and joined an A-level RP class led by Dr Ronan McLaverty-Head (Hon OV) to examine AI ethics in depth.
Over lunch in the Weston Sixth Form Centre, Drew spoke with Sixth Formers about their university and career plans, sharing insights into his own experiences and business practices. King’s is deeply grateful to Drew for his generosity in sharing his wisdom and experiences, which left a lasting impact on students and staff alike. His visit was a truly memorable Barnabas Day, filled with inspiration and encouragement for all who had the privilege to engage with him.
Reunions and Events
T
he OV events calendar is full of opportunities for OVs, Hon OVs, and members of the King’s family to re-connect, reminisce and network – both at School and around the world. OVs can find out details of upcoming events, and see photos from past events, via the secure online portal, The Vigornian Hub. If you don’t yet have your login, please contact the Alumni Office: alumni@ksw.org.uk
New OV BBQ 2024
On Tuesday 3rd September 2024, we had the great pleasure of welcoming our newest OVs from the years of 2022, 2023 and 2024 back to King’s for their New OV BBQ. The heavy rain earlier in the day had cleared away to allow for plenty of opportunities to catch-up in the Mulberry Marquee and Quad and enjoy the fantastic BBQ and the bar. The OVs enjoyed seeing their school friends and some of their former teachers again, as well as hearing a few words from Acting Head, Dr Alison Oliver (Hon OV).
KSW v OVs Football Matches
This academic year, the OVs took on the King’s 1st XI on two occasions. The first match was held in September, where the OV squad of 20 recent leavers demonstrated some good attacking play, but the KSW team took control of the game in the second half, running out 3-1 winners. Dr Mark Poole (Hon OV) said, “The match was played in a fabulous spirit and refereed superbly throughout by Mr Sarriegui (Hon OV).” In January, the return game took place at the County FA Headquarters. As King’s Sports Coach, Andy Holliday noted, “The OVs fielded a very youthful squad, looking to gain revenge for a heavy defeat at the start of the school year.” A high-scoring game, the OVs were deservedly triumphant in their 8-4 win, in a very entertaining match. If any OVs are interested in getting involved in football matches back at King’s, please do get in touch with the Alumni Office (alumni@ksw.org.uk).
121st Annual OV Dinner
On Saturday 14th September 2024, we were delighted to open the doors to College Hall and welcome OVs from across the generations, and the world, to the 121st Annual OV Dinner. This year’s Chappel Memorial Award Winner, which recognises the oldest OV present for their longstanding support of the School (who has not previously won), was OV Alec Mackie (Cl 47-56). Alec was accompanied by Acting Head, Dr Alison Oliver (Hon OV), as he signed the Chappel Award book. There was a fantastic turnout from the years of 1989, 1994 and 2004, with a special mention for the 1979 and 1964 cohorts, all of whom were celebrating milestone anniversaries. The compére for the evening was Hon Secretary of the OV Club, OV Nick Stephens (Br 77-84 and Old
Hawfordian). We were honoured to have OV, The Rev’d Martin Loveless (Cr 54-64) offer the Grace before the delicious three-course dinner began. Following the dinner, all those gathered toasted The King, before OV Ed Bolton (K 79-89) took to the lectern, representing the largest year group attending. On behalf of the School, Alison thanked Ed for his speech and welcomed all present. Sharing an update on the good health of the School, Alison also wished Kittermaster and Oswald Houses a “Happy Birthday” as they marked 40 years since inception and encouraged OVs to keep in touch with the School. The weekend was completed with the traditional Sunday Eucharist in Worcester Cathedral, where OV David Head (Cl 52-60) and Dr Alison Oliver (Hon OV) represented the OV community during the service.
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Network 1541 Business Panel Debate
September’s Network 1541 event comprised a business panel debate with industry leaders and experts delving into the impact of the Labour government on economic policies and regulatory changes and, crucially, the evolving landscape of employment law. The panel was chaired by OV John Foley (Cl 64-74), accompanied by King‘s parent Hannah Edwards, managing director at Eva Capital; OV Nick Clark (H 88-90), group COO at eEnergyPLC and group non-executive director at CED Electrical Group; and Jonathan Gain, chief investment officer and CEO at Stellar Asset Management Ltd. Many thanks to the panellists and guests for their invaluable contributions.
Fantastic Five Year Reunion
On Saturday 5th October, it was wonderful to welcome so many of the Year of 2019, and their parents, back to King’s for their Five Year Reunion. The OVs were joined for drinks and canapés by some of their former teachers, including Hon OVs Katie Beever, Simon Cuthbertson, Gilly, Chris Haywood, Dr Richard James, Stephan
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School House Lunch 2024
Our many thanks to OV Dr Tim Wadsworth (S 56-61) who not only organises the annual School House Lunch but has also provided the following précis of the reunion: “The lunch was held again this year at the RAF Club, Piccadilly, on 30th September 2024 and was kindly hosted, as last year, by David Murray (S 45-61). We were group of 10, a little smaller than usual, and a little more elderly than usual - we were all 80ish rather than 70ish. The lunch has never been exclusively School House and we have always welcomed other Houses and staff members: this year
and Sarah Le Marchand, Andrew Maund, Claire Neville, Dr Mark Poole, and Chris Wilson, all happily reminiscing about their schooldays and what they have achieved in the five years since leaving. Acting Head, Dr Alison Oliver (Hon OV), welcomed the former pupils and their parents/guardians back to King’s, before handing over to OV and former Head of School, Sam Martyn-Smith (Cl 12-19 and Old Hawfordian).
we had two from Creighton House and two Hon OVs, Rory McTurk and former Bursar, Galen Bartholomew, all regulars at the lunch. We enjoyed an excellent meal and, as ever, it was a great pleasure to meet again friends from over 60 years ago and of course we remembered Dan McTurk.“ They were joined by OVs Derek Bell (S 56-58), Mike Dudley (Cl 51-59), Malcolm Joyner (Cr44-52), Martin Lorenz (S 45-50), Mike Page (Cr 6065) and Andrew Wallbank (S 52-59).
Sam added his welcome to Alison’s, saying a few words to his fellow OVs recognising the achievements made over the past five years and reminiscing about their time at King’s. As the Reunion came to an end the evening did not, as the OVs and Hon OVs carried the reuniting on into Worcester, with the aim of at least starting, if not necessarily completing, the “Nine Dots”!
We Will Remember Them: Remembrance Day 2024
On Monday 11th November 2024, the whole School gathered with OVs, Hon OVs, Governors and Trustees, in Worcester Cathedral to commemorate The Fallen in a moving and poignant Service of Remembrance. OV Alec Mackie (Cl 47-56) and President of the OV Club, James Smalley (Br 1017) laid a wreath on behalf of the Old Vigornian Community, joined by Heads of School Eric Dykes and Amelia Venables who laid a wreath on behalf of the School. Prayers were led by the Rev’d Dr Dorsett (Hon OV). Following the service, the Acting Head, Dr Alison Oliver (Hon OV), welcomed the guests of the School to a Reception in Hostel House. The guests included OVs and Hon OVs from across the generations including OVs currently serving and retired from the Armed Forces.
KSWBC Charity Challenge 2024 Done!
Many thanks to all the OVs who supported the KSWBC for the 2024 Charity Challenge, this occasion comprising not only rowing one million metres on the ergos but also cycling 700,000 metres on the static bikes! The hard work put in by all meant the previously fastest time of 16 hours and 55 minutes was left in the dust, with a new fastest record of 16 hours and 39 minutes! The nominated charity was the Worcestershire Breast Unit Haven for which the event raised over £7,000. In January, the KSWBC welcomed WBUH Patient Support Manager and former parent, Jacquie Clements, and her daughter, OV and former King‘s Gap Rowing Coach, Ellie Clements (Cr 05-12 and Old St Alban‘s) to officially present the donation, with a fantastically large cheque!
Christmas Coffee & Cake
After a few years’ hiatus, it was a pleasure to welcome some retired staff back once again to King’s for Christmas Coffee and Cake in December. Gathering in the Head’s Reception, friends and former colleagues reconnected, reminiscing about their years at King’s, sharing updates on their lives post-retirement, and catching up on life at School today.
OV London Drinks 2025
The most recent OV London Drinks took place on Thursday 6th February at a new venue, the private Villiers Room at the Theodore Bullfrog just off the Strand. It was a fantastic evening, filled with stories and cherished memories, as well as some useful networking across the generations. Our many thanks to all the OVs who attended and made it such a memorable evening, including King’s School Governor and OV Andrew Underwood (S 77-87) who said a few words of welcome – and especially those who carried the party on long after the event had officially finished!
OV Golf Day 2024
Many thanks indeed to OV James Bailey (Cr 84-93) who, once again, organised a fantastic Golf Day at Ombersley Golf Club in November. James was joined by OVs Colin Cole (H 67-77 and Old St Alban’s), Andrew Rankin (H 9597), and Nic Sproson (H 71-76) in his group, with Paul Judge (W 83-93), Tom Guest (S 90-97), Nick Firth (Ch 86-93), George Blakeway (H 76-86 and Old St Alban’s), Tim Whitehouse (K 86-94), and Russ Mason (Hon OV), who were grouped in two three balls. The outright winner was Nick Firth and Andrew Rankin cleaned up on the nearest to the pin and also longest drive! James added, “We’re planning for repeat in 2025, possibly earlier in the year, and hopefully greater OV numbers!”
OV Reunion in Broadway
OV David Horobin (W 61-69) is currently based in the US and made the most of his visit to the UK by bringing together some of his King‘s cohort for a long overdue catch-up! He kindly shared this great photo from the reunion held in Broadway, Worcestershire. In the photo, we have from L-R: Barney Burnham (Ch 59-69), Dave Malcolmson (Cl 57-68
and Old St Alban’s), John Stephen (Cl 60-67), Bill Dailey (Ca 64-68), Andrew Reekes (Ch 64-69), Peter Garland (Ch 63-68),Bill Bridgens (Ch 61-68), Paul Smith (J 64-69 and Old St Alban’s), Derek Wolfendale (W 58-68),Pete Ross (W 62-69), Richard Apps (Ch 61-68), Nigel Garland (Ch 61-66), Dave Horobin (W 61-69) and sons Andrew and Christopher.
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Ten Year reunion for the Year of 2015
On Saturday 22nd March 2025, it was a huge pleasure to welcome the Year of 2015 back to King’s to celebrate their Ten Year Reunion! Starting with tours of the School, the 2015 cohort were accompanied by Upper Sixth Monitors to give a current King’s perspective. The OVs reconvened in the Mulberry Marquee with their school friends, joined by some of their former teachers, including Hon OVs Katie Beever, Simon Cuthbertson, Gilly, Chris Haywood, Alison Hines, Dr Richard James, Stephan and Sarah Le Marchand, Russ Mason, Julie Palmer, Ian Robinson, and Donna Salkeld.
Hon OV Katie Beever formally welcomed the Year of 2015 back to King’s, before handing over to OV and former Head of School, Dr Tobias Thomas (W 08-15), who shared some wonderful words with his schoolfriends, shocking some into the realisation they had been out of school for longer than they had been in! As the evening at King’s drew to a close, the Year of 2015 were having such a great time, they had to be gently encouraged by Gilly (Hon OV) to head into town and continue to make the most of their time back together!
1541 Society Lunch
We were honoured to welcome members of the 1541 Society to the Michael Baker Boathouse in May for a delicious threecourse lunch prepared by the School’s caterers, Thomas Franks. The 1541 Society encompasses all elements of the King’s Community, comprising OVs, Hon OVs, current and former parents, and friends of the School. It recognises those individuals who have supported The King’s School Worcester Development Trust in a major way, whether through an extraordinary gift, legacy pledge, or by donating their time to forward the work of the trust. Our thanks, as ever, to all of those who support The King’s School Worcester Development Trust.
Bob Hinds Boat Naming
Many OVs will remember the late Bob Hinds (Hon OV), former King’s Boatman and Rowing Coach, as well as from his times in the DT department and CCF! In May, the King’s School Worcester Boat Club unveiled its newest
Henley Royal Regatta 2025
The Alumni Team, along with King’s Head of Rowing Jim Chalmers (Hon OV), Boatman Will Bird (Hon OV), Lead Rowing Coach Robin Booth (Hon OV) and Rowing Assistant Darcy Simon, hugely enjoyed welcoming so many OVs, and their friends, to the King’s Worcester gazebo at this year’s Henley Royal Regatta. It is always such a joy to meet with OVs from across the
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boat, named in Bob’s honour, in a special ceremony held at the School. To mark the occasion, Bob’s family joined current staff and students to officially name the boat, before watching pupils from the Upper Remove take it out on the water.
eras whose love for the sport they had found at King’s is still going strong! Special mention to OV Georgie Thorp (S 14-21 ad Old Hawfordian) who, with her Molesey Boat Club women‘s eight crew won the Wargrave Challenge Cup in a sensational race on the final day of Henley Royal Regatta 2025!
Spring Tea 2025
A sumptuous Afternoon Tea in the Mulberry Marquee on a spring afternoon was the perfect backdrop for some of our retired staff and OVs to catch up and reconnect with each other and current staff. A lovely occasion that is becoming a firm fixture in the annual events’ calendar!
OVs Overseas: California Reunion 2024 On a glorious October weekend, OV Abbas Kazerooni (Ch 91-96) generously hosted OVs from across the States and the UK in his hometown of Newport Beach, California. The group first met on Friday 11th October, when some enjoyed kayaking in the bay, before meeting up for dinner, joined by Acting Head, Dr Alison Oliver (Hon OV). The main event was held on the Saturday evening, when Abbas hosted his guests at his stunning home, with themed cocktails and a sumptuous meal. Alison commented, “Overall, it was a humbling and joyous occasion, in fact a privilege to get together with those for whom King‘s holds great significance. I can’t thank Abbas enough for his generosity and thoughtfulness in hosting this reunion, and for his continued support for the School.”
Abbas added, “It was an absolute privilege and honour to host the KSW US Reunion in Newport Beach, California. I really enjoyed hosting old friends and making new connections with one huge common connecting theme - King’s School Worcester. It is always amazing how we can connect with people from different generations with that common thread. I feel like a real bond is forming between the US
OVs and it is a beautiful thing to be a part of, and watch develop.” Abbas and Alison were joined by OVs Rupert Bader (Os 82-89), who had also helped with the weekend’s co-ordination, Jonathan Essex (Cr 80-89), Isabella Green (K 17-24), Dr David Longstaff (H 92-97), Kate Mythen (née Ogden, Co 8183), and Essi Sadeghi (Cr 88-95) along with Dave and Jon’s partners.
VigFest 2025
A celebration of all things King’s, VigFest 2025 was a fantastic evening in July, with the talented DJ, Tom Pearson (Hon OV) inspiring memories with some rousing tunes. With the OVs present spanning the Years of 1952 to 2021, and each decade in-between, VigFest was a true opportunity for the Vigornian community to get together in a relaxed atmosphere against the backdrop of the beautiful School Gardens and Michael Baker Boathouse. The Year of 1985 particularly made a full day of reuniting to celebrate their 40th anniversary! OV Emma Hammett (née Douglas, Co 83-85) was instrumental in gathering her year group, first for a picnic lunch on College Green, before spending the afternoon together, then onwards to VigFest! More events are planned, so if you could not make July’s get-together, please contact Emma directly or via the Alumni Office so you don’t miss out on future plans.
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W
Beyond King’s e regularly feature an OV in Beyond King’s to help showcase the diversity of OV activities since leaving School, and to inspire and motivate current pupils and members of the King’s family. To be featured, please contact the Alumni Office via alumni@ksw.org.uk.
A précis of the featured Beyond King’s OVs for 2024-25 follows. You can read more about their careers beyond King’s in the Alumni Section of the School website, in the News and Stories section.
Hanna Khogali (Os 06-13)
Hanna has paused her acting career to study Asian and Middle E a s t e r n S t u d i e s (Arabic) at the University of Cambridge, Wolfson College, which she started in October 2024. Hanna studied Biology, Maths and Further Maths at A-level, with AS-level German, before beginning Natural Sciences at Durham. Realising it wasn’t the right fit, she pursued Acting and Music at the Guildford School of Acting, graduating with First Class Honours. Her successful career includes credits at the Lyric Hammersmith, Bush Theatre, and The Other Palace, among others. She recently served as Associate Director at The Garrick Theatre and directed her first short film, Debriefs. Ready to return to academia, Hanna is eager to immerse herself in a subject she now feels deeply connected to, both intellectually and personally, through her heritage and artistic journey.
Jim Fawcett (Br 85-94 and Old St
Alban’s)
Jim, a Flight Test Engineer at Airbus in France, has been named a Fellow of the Society of Flight Test Engineers - one of only three in 2024. The honour recognises his distinguished service in flight testing and to the Society. Jim’s passion for aviation began early and was nurtured at King’s, where he was a Senior Scholar, Head of House, and active in CCF, Scouts, sport and drama. He studied Aeronautics and Astronautics at Southampton
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University before joining Airbus, where he has held several roles including Head of A380 FTI. A graduate of the French test pilot school EPNER, Jim has logged nearly 3,000 test flight hours and is qualified on all Airbus types. A Chartered Engineer and SFTE member since 2011, Jim said he’s honoured by the recognition, still feeling like “the new guy” who just paid his first membership fee.
Ian Rogers (S 75-82)
Ian retired in 2017 after leading Lindblad Expeditions to a successful listing on the Nasdaq Stock Market as the Chief Operating Officer (COO). At King’s, he immersed himself in school life a keen rower, rugby player and a Head of House. Ian took Biology, Chemistry and Physics at A-level, though with hindsight knows he would have been better served to have done Maths and Economics or Business Studies. His hospitality career began unexpectedly after missing his A-level grades, prompting him to pursue a degree at Bournemouth University. An industry placement led to a competitive apprenticeship with Trust House Forte, where he discovered a passion for finance. Ian’s career flourished through international roles in Serbia, the Middle East and Moscow, where he opened the first Western hotel postCold War. He later worked in Aruba and the US, supporting global hotel and cruise operations. Joining Lindblad in 2008 as CFO, he secured funding and improved profitability and guest satisfaction. Promoted to COO in 2014, he prepared the company for public listing. Reflecting on his journey, Ian credits King’s for equipping him with the confidence to embrace challenges and says retirement came easily after years of 60–80 hour weeks.
Liberty Colebourne (Ch 13-20 and
Old St Alban’s)
Liberty is at the forefront of FemTech, using technology to support women’s health. Inspired by her time at King’s especially rowing - Liberty credits the resilience and time management she developed here for her success. At School, she studied STEM A-levels, was a Senior Scholar, served on the Charity Committee, earned her Gold DofE Award, and co-founded a Girls’ Engineering club; all while captaining the Boat Club. She went on to earn a First in Biomedical Engineering at Imperial College London, where she discovered her passion for FemTech. Liberty now works as a software engineer at Samphire Neuroscience, developing the app for their wearable device “Nettle,” which treats women’s health conditions. She remains close with her friends made at King’s and now, based in London, she enjoys reconnecting with fellow OVs at events such as OV London Drinks.
Alexandra Pereira (Cr 01-06)
Writer and editor Alexandra’s love for the Arts was nurtured at King’s, especially through Drama. I n s p i r e d by teachers including Simon Atkins (Hon OV) and Andrew Maund (Hon OV), she studied Drama at Manchester University. Though once a nervous traveller, Alexandra is now known for her travel writing, having visited nearly 60 countries and contributed to major publications. She also works in film and TV, writes fiction, and is developing a Midlandsset drama and novel. Alexandra’s theatre company recently staged a sell-out show in Copenhagen, and
she continues to explore new creative projects. Alexandra values the lifelong friendships formed at King’s and often reconnects with fellow OVs around the world. Reflecting on her journey, Alexandra said, “In the increasingly unstable and self-aware times we live in and having met and worked with many people who have less access to educational support, admitting the privilege of attending a nice place like King’s can feel complicated. But I’m so proud of each corner of my roots and having had the opportunity to grow from there. I still have my pink stripy Creighton tie!”
Simon Insley (Br 99-06)
Simon was r e c e n t l y a p p o i n t e d General Manager of Cricket at South Australia Cricket & Adelaide Strikers, leading them to an historic double win of the Sheffield Shield and One-Day Cup for the first time in South Australia Cricket’s history. Simon’s passion for cricket began at King’s, where he balanced A-levels in Biology, PE and Drama with roles as a Monitor, Young Enterprise participant and cricketer. After studying Physiotherapy at Nottingham University, he travelled the Southern Hemisphere, gaining New Zealand Physiotherapy registration and joining Auckland Cricket. He rose to Head Physiotherapist, then High-Performance Manager, before moving to Cricket Tasmania and the Hobart Hurricanes and seconded to the New Zealand BLACKCAPS, becoming Performance Manager in 2022. Simon returned to King’s with the BLACKCAPS for training ahead of a T20I against England. Reflecting on his journey, Simon credits King’s for equipping him with the social and life skills that have enabled his global success in professional sport.
OV Dr Mohan Gondhalekar (Cl 98-05)
Mohan recently visited King’s before his relocation to Australia, marking his first return since A-levels. A dedicated student, Mohan studied sciences at A-level and went on to
earn his MBChB and a BMedSci in the History of Medicine from the University of Birmingham. His early training at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust sparked a passion for Clinical Psychiatry. He continued his training in Worcestershire and Essex, specialising in adult and old age psychiatry. Mohan more recently joined the Royal College of Psychiatrists as a Clinical Fellow and currently balances NHS work with his private practice in Harley Street. He also serves as a national clinical advisor for mental health at the Parliamentary Health Service Ombudsman. Mohan now embarks on a new chapter as a Consultant Psychiatrist on the Gold Coast, Australia, bringing his extensive experience and dedication to mental health to an international stage.
Claire Gott MBE (Cl 97-06)
Claire recently joined the Vigornian Voices podcast to share her inspiring journey with Katie Beever (Hon OV). At King’s, Claire studied Maths, Physics and DT, was a House Prefect, Netball Captain, and active in Rowing and Young Enterprise. She earned an MEng in Civil Engineering and Architecture at Southampton University, where she co-founded Cameroon Catalyst, delivering vital infrastructure to communities in Eastern Cameroon. Her work earning her an MBE in 2015. Claire joined WSP as a Graduate Structural Engineer directly from university and quickly rose through the ranks, managing major infrastructure projects including HS2 stations and London Bridge redevelopment. Passionate about sustainability and diversity, she led WSP’s Net Zero strategy and served on industry boards. Claire is now UK Head of Building Structures at WSP, leading a 500-strong team across 20 sectors. She regularly returns to King’s to mentor aspiring engineers and support careers initiatives.
From his early days at King’s, where he excelled in cross-country and cycling, he worked as a mechanic for Benetton F1 and Prodrive before starting a PR career with WilliamsF1 and Nissan Rally Team. Toby became a renowned commentator, lending his voice to MotoGP on Eurosport for 18 years, the British Touring Car and Superbike Championships, and the FIA World Endurance Championship, including the iconic Le Mans 24 Hours. His commentary reached audiences worldwide, covering events including the Paris-Dakar Rally and X Games. Recently, he has managed media for Bahrain Raid Xtreme and hosted for Porsche Motorsport at Le Mans. Beyond commentary, Toby contributed to KTM’s brand building and has held class records as a driver at Shelsley Walsh and Prescott.
Careers Support
We hugely appreciate the support OVs give to current pupils, which is invaluable and a great strength of the King‘s family. This support can take many different forms, from conversations via email, to Teams calls, to in-person visits, and work experience. Many pupils in the Fifth and Sixth Forms take advantage of this community to help with their first steps into the wider world, and this support continues when they become OVs when needing help with careers advice. The support from OVs and the wider King’s community has been fantastic this year, and here is a snapshot of those OVs who have come back to King’s to inspire the future generations: Hot on the heels of her Five Year Reunion, writer, director and actor, OV Hollie Avery (S 12-19) stayed locally to return to King’s to help judge the House Drama Competition. In a break from judging, Hollie spent some time with Lower Sixth pupils Bella Crompton and Esther Good who were seeking advice and guidance on their Drama A-level devising piece, as well as potential future career opportunities.
Toby Moody (K 80-91)
With a career spanning nearly thirty years, Toby Moody (K 8091) has become one of the most recognisable voices and faces in global motorsport.
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We were very grateful to OVs Lizzy Haldar (née Bennett, Ch 08-10), Harry Flockhart (Ca 13-20), Luke Weaver (S 98-03) and Becky Ye (S 16-23) who generously gave their time to speak with pupils about A-levels, universities and careers at the opening of the Weston Sixth Form Centre in November, sharing their own personal journeys and experiences to help guide the pupils as they themselves are on the cusp of making their own key life choices. Rory Woodward, a talented Upper Fourth Music Scholar and chorister, had an organ masterclass with distinguished OV Peter Holder (Br 01-08 and Old St Alban‘s), Organist at Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford. Peter formerly served as Sub-Organist at Westminster Abbey and famously played at both the Queen’s Funeral and the King’s Coronation.
In November, OVs George CampbellFerguson (Cr 17-24), George Howard (S17-24), Jack Wharton (S 20-22) and Lola Morgan (W 18-24) “jumped” onto Teams for an early morning call. Together, they joined Dr Ronan McLaverty-Head (Hon OV) and the then King‘s Oxbridge candidates to share their own, successful, Oxbridge interview experiences and some top tips for the hopeful candidates! OV Becky Ye (S 16-23) has also returned to speak with prospective Oxbridge candidates kindly offering her insights and advice. OV Marcus Ferrar (Cr 53-63 and Old St Alban’s) very kindly journeyed from his Oxfordshire home to speak with the King’s Sixth Form Germanists in preparation for their visit to Germany. Drawing on his own personal experiences of life in East Berlin, the collapse of The Berlin Wall, as well as his extensive knowledge of the Dresden Bombings – Marcus is chair of the Dresden Trust.
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We were very fortunate to welcome OV Oscar Marcus Boyle (Os 08-15) back to the King’s Art School in January to share his inspirational work in a joint exhibition with Tereza Horáček, whose mother, Claire Horáček (Hon OV) had taught Art at King’s – a prime example of the King’s family in action!
Lower Sixth students hugely benefitted from meeting and hearing from three OVs for the Gap Year Talks 2025. Zach English (Cr 18-24), Charlie Kenny (Ca 11-18 and Old St Alban’s) and Harry Flockhart (Ca 13-20 and Old St Alban’s) joined the Lower Sixth in the John Moore Theatre to provide some insight, and inspiration, into Gap Years. Each of the OVs had different experiences to share with the students, from working, to travelling, to working while travelling, providing personal perspectives on the pros and cons of taking the time out from education or work. The assembled Lower Sixth also heard from OV and former Head of School, Olivia Howard (Cl 14-21 and Old Hawfordian), who had previously prepared a video presentation. Following the presentations, Charlie, Harry and Zach had lunch with some current students who have already decided to take a Gap Year. It was a great opportunity for those students to really pick the OVs’ brains!
King’s Career Extravaganza 2025
We had an incredible couple of days at the King’s Careers Extravaganza in March, which is now in its third year and continuing to go from strength to strength. From careers in STEM to Business and Creative Industries, College Hall was filled with invaluable insights and advice. Over 400 pupils from King‘s and schools across Worcestershire attended across the two events. A massive thank you to all the OVs, King’s parents, and friends of the School, who generously donated their time to support the inquisitive young minds investigating their own potential future careers. A special thank you to the amazing OVs James Smalley (Br 10-17), a Mechanical Engineer for Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains, and Cameron Walker (Os 08-15), Royal Correspondent for GB News and Broadcast Journalist, for their inspiring keynote speeches. OVs supporting the 2025 Careers Extravaganza: James Bailey (Cr 84-93), Drew Benvie (K 85-96), Sarah Fardon (Os 01-08), Claire Gott (Cl97-06), Amelia MartynSmith (Br 08-15), Henry Martyn-Smith (S 10-17), Rebecca Maund (Co 86-88), Simon Mico (Os 85-96), Amy Mushing (Ca 12-19), Luke Mushing (K 13-20), Steve Perera (Cr 86-93), Barney Sears (Ch 10-15), Jack Sims (Cr 04-11), James Smalley (Br 10-17), Rachel Smithson (Co 88-89), Richard Tomlinson (Cl 8390), Cameron Walker (Os 08-15) and Alice Williams-Allden (W 97-02).
OVs in the News OV’s Olivier Award
A massive congratulations to OV Allan Clayton MBE (H 91-99) for winning a well-deserved Olivier Award! The award, Outstanding Achievement in Opera, had a strong field, where Allan was up against finalists Aigul Akhemetshina for her performance in Carmen at the Royal Opera House, and Jung Young-Doo for his direction of Lear at the Barbican Theatre
OVs’ Royal Recognition
We were delighted to learn that OVowned and run Brockway Carpets has been granted the Royal Warrant of Appointment as Carpet Manufacturer to His Majesty King Charles III. The Royal Warrant is as a mark of recognition to people or companies who have regularly supplied goods or services to the Royal Household for at least five years. OV Charles Annable (Cl 78-88 and Old St Alban’s) is Chairman of Brockway Carpets, which has been in his family since the company began in 1964, and is supported by Managing Director, OV Derek Evans (Cr 78-86 and Old Hawfordian).
OV High Sheriff
Many congratulations to OV Ian Smith (Cr 73-78 and Old Hawfordian) for his well-deserved appointment as High Sheriff of Worcestershire in April 2025. There have been High Sheriffs for at least 1,000 years and it is the oldest secular institution after the Monarchy.
OV’s Excellent Education Award
In April 2025, Discover History won the ‘Community Involvement’ category of the Worcestershire Education Awards 2025. OV Helen Harding (née Lee, Ch 94-01) and her husband Paul Harding, who is the School Staff Instructor (SSI) for King’s CCF, have both run Discover History since 2003.
Alice’s Gold
Huge congratulations to OV Alice Baker (K 14-22 and Old St Alban’s), who secured an impressive Gold for Team GB Rowing at the 2024 World Rowing Senior, Under 23 and Under 19 Championships in St Catharines, Canada, which took place at the end of August 2024. Following her race, Alice, who is currently studying at Stanford University on a Rowing Scholarship, kindly returned to King’s to meet with the King’s School Worcester Boat Club senior rowers (Fifth Form - Upper Sixth) during one of their Games sessions, to share some of her top tips. Alice has subsequently been crowned N a t i o n a l Champion along with her Stanford University crew mates at the NCAA Women’s R o w i n g Championships.
Rose’s Olympic Marathon
Congratulations to OV Rose Harvey (K 03-10) who, despite a stress fracture of her femur, completed her first Olympic Marathon at the Paris Games 2024. While some of the other athletes did not complete the course, Rose powered through to come in 78th in a time of 2:51:03 in 24°C heat. Rose went on to become the second Brit and 9th overall across the finish line in the TCS London Marathon 2025! Photo: Reuters
OV Victorious in Oxford v. Cambridge Boat Race
OV Luke Beever (S 15-22 and Old Hawfordian) is to be congratulated after his crew secured a thrilling win in the iconic Oxford v Cambridge Boat Race in April 2025. The Cambridge crew dominated the race winning by more than 16 seconds, and an incredible 5.5 lengths. The victory gave Cambridge their third successive win and a sixth in seven contests.
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George‘s University Challenge
It was so exciting to see OV George Capell (Br 16-23) make his TV debut on University Challenge, with his St Andrews University team!
OV Appointed Commissioner
High
Many congratulations to OV Paul Turner (W 77-82) who has been appointed British High Commissioner to the Solomon Islands. This appointment is the culmination of a career that has spanned the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), the World Bank and several other international organisations. Paul took up his new post in January 2025.
Amazing Authors
Thank you to OV Ranga Chand (S 5864) who kindly donated a copy of his latest book, the Fall of the Dollar Empire, for the benefit of current Economics
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OV bags a Baggies Contract
Fantastic news from OV Noah DuPont (Cr 19-24) who signed his first professional football contract with West Bromwich Albion (aka “The Baggies”) this month. Noah moved from King’s after completing his GCSEs to join the West Bromwich Albion Academy, a move that has proven absolutely the right one for what is set to be a stellar football career.
Vigornian Voices
Launched last year, the OV podcast series, Vigornian Voices, continues to bring insights and inspiration from OVs as they chat with current members of staff. You can listen to all episodes via Mixcloud (simply search for Vigornian Voices)
“Dragons’ Den” at King’s
OVs Sophy Howard (Br 02-09 of amazon.co.uk, created a “Dragons’ and Old St Alban‘s), founder of Den” panel for Lower Sixth Business Watersedge, and Mo Patel (K 06-13 and students to present business plans. A Old St Alban‘s), founder of MOBU, great evening giving the Lower Sixth returned to King’s and, joined by an incredible evening and some ‘real John Roberts from NFU Mutual, and life’ experience. Martin Sharples, founding director
and Business Studies students. Ranga’s book hit the shelves this year, along with Hon OV power couple, the Le Marchands, who also published their
latest novels, with Stephan‘s book An Untimely Frost and Sarah‘s first, Hold Fast!
2024-25 Obituaries George Dickson Bailey (Cl 43-54) 1936 - 2024 Dad was born in Worcester on 11 July 1936. He spent his whole childhood there, latterly remembering Wheatfield Avenue as the home he left aged 18. With his health failing, he visited Worcester in January 2018 with us, his three daughters, with remarkable recollections. He walked around with us whilst storytelling, visiting his early homes and much loved school, King’s Worcester. Early memories included seeing the Midlands ablaze at night whilst standing at the end of Wheatfield Avenue during the war. He remembered his Mother jumping on top of him in the town centre whilst out shopping, when a lone Messerschmitt flew over Bridge Street. He remembered watching dog fights between the Luftwaffe and RAF fighters. In the summer of 1944, he remembered being given candy and chocolate and climbing all over parked allied vehicles at the invitation of American troops stopping off on their surge South for D-day. It was at school that he developed a passion for railways and travel. He was in the CCF and went to London with a select few from school, observing the jubilant crowds at the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth from the Queen Victoria Memorial, in 1953. A King’s School master inspired him to become a Royal Engineer Officer, suggesting to him that an engineer’s role is very constructive in the chaotic environment of war. By 1954, he was in the Worcester Regiment for basic training, which led him to Officer Training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. He served in Yorkshire, then passing through the Panama Canal, to Christmas Island in the Pacific, to construct roads for Atomic Weapons testing, experiencing nuclear explosions and, in 2023 he was thrilled to receive the Nuclear Test Medal from King Charles for his service. He returned to UK, roaring around in his MG roadster, attached to the national road building programme, RE Apprentice College in Chepstow and adventure training in Wales. In the
late 60s he was involved in planning airfields and jungle helicopter landing strips in Malaya. It was here at a New Years Eve Party that he met our Mum, Christine and, they married in 1966. Dad wasn’t keen on serving in England. He commanded an Engineer Squadron and, was later 2nd in command of an Engineer Regiment in Germany. He did three tours of Northern Ireland and was on Loan Service as Chief Instructor to the Armed Forces Staff College, Kaduna, Nigeria. He then served in Holland for Allied Forces Central Europe. He then learned German and, was British Liaison Officer in Munich, Bavaria. As his three daughters, we went to boarding school, but remember holidays living in very numerous and interesting places with different languages. Dad was always fact-finding and taking us on adventures…either in a tent, or to cities to visit remarkable sites of historical interest. In the late 90s he and Mum separated and later divorced. He married his second wife Megan, in 2007. In retirement, Dad continued his remarkable life of service, particularly with Rotary, The Royal British Legion, SSAFA and GP training days for the care of veterans. Dad has the most incredible photohistory documenting his life’s work and travels. He was a great collector of many things…..we are still endeavouring to make order of his extensive archive!
had an incredible life, imbued with his dry sense of humour, sense of duty and public service. His ashes are scattered in Worcester at his request, within sight of The Cathedral, his school and the Malvern Hills. We brought him home. Helena, Sophie, and Torsie Paul W Baker (H 55-65) 1947 - 2025 It is with great sadness that we write to inform you of the death of our brother Paul on 16th March 2025. Paul attended King’s School Worcester from 1955 to 1965 and enjoyed every moment of his time there. He was an excellent all round sportsman and reckoned that he had represented the school in every available sport, including Chess! He started as a day boy, but he so enjoyed school life that he begged our parents to allow him to become a boarder. He joined Hostel House and had an excellent relationship with the then Housemaster Richard “Dickie” Knight. He became Head of House and subsequently Head Boy of the School. He left to study at Exeter where his sporting prowess saved him when he failed his first year and was allowed to resit as he was such an asset to the University sports teams.
Dad was very well read. He was well informed and supremely widely travelled. He went about his business quietly. We remember him as a font of geopolitical knowledge, founded in realism and pragmatism as the world continued to change all around him.
He went on to co-found a very successful business that became the leader in data analytics in the marketing industry and was highly regarded by all who dealt with him. He was much loved family man and loved not only by his own children but also by the wider family.
Dad was amazing at anything DIY, single handedly building, plumbing, tiling, painting and, mending everything at home. He was also a talented artist. He played games with us andeducated us more than we realised. He was a bit of an enigma.
He is sadly missed by all who knew him. David Baker (Cr 53-61), Mark Baker (Cr 67-77) and Alison Harper (AO)
Dad died last year, after a prolonged illness with minimal complaint, at his home, surrounded by love on 7th June, just before his 88th birthday. He was very proud of his family, especially us three and, his six grandchildren. He
Christopher Bentall (Cr 5060 and Old St Alban’s) 1942 - 2024 Christopher died on 12th December 2024 after a four-year battle
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with bowel cancer; he had suffered a debilitating stroke in 2013. During his time at King’s he played cricket enthusiastically and did carpentry in the old shed with Mr Freeman. He left school at 17 joining National Provincial Bank (later to become NatWest) at Bromsgrove. He then moved to the Bristol area where he remained for the rest of his life. Over many years he was successful in obtaining ACIB through his banking exams and ended up as a manager of the NatWest branch at Horfield (in Bristol). At one of his branches The Rev’d Brian Dickson, former chaplain at King’s, was one of his customers. He used his banking experience in the community by acting as treasurer to various organisations and, after he retired from the bank, bookkeeping. His interests were cricket, golf, Rotary, the weather and both modern and preserved railways. His brother used to send him pictures of - some quite remote - railway stations, which he could usually identify easily!
Carol and he spent the next 25 years or so commuting to London, ferrying the children to activities and taking their caravan around the UK. After retirement David threw himself into a whole range of activities – things he’d not spent time doing when the children were younger. He took up running, rowing, swimming and got involved in all manner of local groups in the community. His faith was important to him throughout his life, and regularly attended the local church in the village, as well as becoming a church warden and sitting on the various committees to support the church. He loved a train, especially a steam train, which we attribute to his early years taking the train to school. That and the fact that his Dad worked on the GWR – so it was in his blood. He leaves behind his wife Doreen, two children, and five grandchildren. Carol Clark
He leaves a son and daughter, and four grandchildren. Angus Bentall (Cr 53-64 and Old St Alban’s)
Peter Cummin (Ch 60-69 and Old St Alban’s) 1950 - 2025
David Clark (Cl 50-56) 1939 - 2025 David sadly passed away in March 2025 after a short illness and brief stay in hospital.
Peter passed away in Mystic Connecticut, USA, in March 2025, having battled Parkinson’s for a long time. He leaves his wife Audrey, his four children John (my godson), Emily, Christopher, Claire, and their mothers Lesley and Cheryl.
At school, he made some lifelong friends, reconnecting with them in the 1960s when they were all working in London. They met up annually and were planning to meet up again later this year.
Peter was the very first contemporary I met in Worcester the day of our entrance exam: when my father and I arrived for our audition as Cathedral choristers, there was Peter sitting in the entrance hall with his mother, his father being at sea as a chaplain in the Royal Navy. We remained close from that moment of mutual anxiety to his last. His father died while Peter was at King’s and he became an adoptive brother to our family, spending holidays with us, and us with his mother and brother in UK and France.
After leaving school, David’s parents moved to Essex where he started working for Lloyds Bank. He worked in a variety of branches in the county and then moved to work in the City; still with Lloyds. Singing played a big part in his life, and he performed with a number of choirs both in the City, the church and choral societies in Sussex. He met his wife, Doreen, whilst singing in a church choir in Worthing, they were married in 1971 and settled in Hassocks. Along came Andrew and
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At School, where he was a singer, clarinettist and cross-country runner and a very hard worker, his focus and determination got him the grades to study Landscape Architecture at Bath.
He had been interested in horticulture from an early age, something that was encouraged strongly by David Annett (HM 1959-1979). He was a devout Christian throughout his life. Following Bath, Peter went to Athens, Georgia, for a specialist Masters degree where he met his first wife. They moved to Cambridge, Massachusetts and thence to Mason’s Island, Connecticut, where they brought up their children as he established a thriving Landscape and Design Company, Cummin Associates Inc (now Water Street Design) in Stonington. He worked on gardens and estates all over the US, Canada, the West Indies and beyond, including a notable project at Edington, Wiltshire. Clients described Peter as a walking plant encyclopaedia and how his charming personality, skills, professionalism and jaw-dropping landscapes won them over instantly. He was known around the world as a horticulturist and his dedication to his company’s projects prompted him to visit them often even after plans were completed. Various of his projects were featured in Architectural Digest and House and Garden. I visited him in US regularly, combining visits to my brother Mark in North Carolina, and it was on one of those trips that I met my wife (we married in Stonington) for which I am forever grateful. Peter knew about the regular meetings of our school contemporaries, and I’m told that attending one of them was on his bucket list, alas a wish not to be realised. Writing this brings back vivid memories of our time at King’s. Boarding was hard to cope with at first but much more enjoyable later as the school became a second home. The cathedral was always important to Peter, as was the singing, the long bike rides and walks into the surrounding countryside, the friendships we made, the wider education both cultural and otherwise, as well as the schoolwork of course. Peter remembered those times fondly and was grateful to be able to return for the (50 year on) Reunion held in 2018, which he enjoyed immensely despite his being physically reduced by that point from his condition. OV Peter Hewitt (Ch 60-69)
Clive Everton MBE (Cl 1957) 1937 - 2024 Born in Worcester, Clive was the son of Alma and Harold Everton, and known to millions worldwide as the calm, authoritative voice of televised snooker. His love of cue sports began when his father took him to Leicester Square Hall. He won the British under-19 billiards championship in 1956 and the Welsh amateur title five times. He turned professional in 1981, reaching a high of 47 in the world rankings in 1983–84, despite back surgery that affected his playing style. Clive also excelled at tennis, representing Worcestershire for 13 years. He met his wife Valerie Teasdale at university, and they married in 1961. He briefly taught before editing Billiards and Snooker magazine, later founding World Snooker, which merged into Snooker Scene in 1972. He began commentating while still a competitive snooker player in the late 1970s, initially for regional ITV companies. After winning the 1977 national pairs title with Roger Bales, Clive joined the BBC’s coverage of the 1978 World Championship at the Crucible in Sheffield. Clive’s commentary style was formal and precise. He always referred to players by surname and maintained a professional distance, even during the snooker boom of the 1980s. He used an old-fashioned lip microphone, left open between shots, and encouraged co-commentators to focus on the action. His advice to newcomers was often “less is more”. His command of language allowed him to capture moments with succinct, perfectly chosen words. After “Whispering” Ted Lowe retired in 1996, Clive’s status as the voice of snooker was cemented. Clive, though, was engaged in a near-constant battle with snooker’s governing bodies and continued to investigate and report on the sport’s internal strife and mismanagement in Snooker Scene each month, and at the Guardian, where he was snooker correspondent between 1976 and 2011, while at the weekends his work appeared in the Sunday Times for many
years and later in the Independent on Sunday. He also wrote more than 20 books on the sport; in his 2007 memoir Black Farce and Cue Ball Wizards, he wrote that they “frittered away its potentialities through incompetence, mismanagement and worse”. As the game’s moral conscience, Clive had 20 court cases with snooker’s authorities over the decades, all of which he won. Despite his popularity, Clive believed his clashes with the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) led to attempts to remove him from commentary. In 1985, he was briefly sacked, only to be reinstated by BBC head of sport Jonathan Martin. He later wrote that he was “marginalised virtually to vanishing point in 2009”. Nevertheless, he remained in demand, working with Sky Sports and later ITV, where he served as lead commentator until the 2019 Champion of Champions. In later years, Clive reconciled with the WPBSA, was inducted into the World Snooker Hall of Fame in 2017, appointed MBE in 2019, and had the British Open trophy named in his honour in 2022. He is survived by Valerie and their five children. With thanks to The Guardian’s Obituary Ray Franklin (Cl 43-49) 1933 - 2023 Ray was born in Rushwick, Worcestershire, in a bungalow in an orchard that his father had built. His brother, Len, also an OV, arrived few years later. Sadly, Len died following a road injury when he was 15. Ray thoroughly enjoyed living in the countryside. He was a Cub Scout, Boy Scout, Rover Scout earning numerous proficiency badges and finally became a Queen’s Scout. He was an excellent swimmer and gained several championship awards. He enjoyed all sports and in his later years avidly watched any sport on TV: he knew all the rules. He attended the village school and at age 10 he passed the scholarship for entrance to the Worcester Cathedral King’s School where he had a good all-round education and made many
friends. On leaving school he worked for a few years at the Radar Research Establishment in Malvern but finding that this was not his forte he joined Martin’s Bank in Worcester (now Barclays). During this period, Ray was called up for National Service in the Royal Air Force, which lasted all of three weeks as he was found to have ear trouble. After a hesitant start, Ray and Joy’s friendship developed into love. They were married at Worcester Cathedral on the Glorious First of June 1957 and went on to have four children: Melanie, Alexandra, Penny, and Elizabeth. Ray was a devoted and incredibly proud father, and fond grandfather to seven grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Ray was a Crucifer at Worcester Cathedral for 55 years and wherever they lived, the family regularly attended services there together. Following their marriage, Ray and Joy lived in Worcester for three years before the bank moved him to the Birmingham City office, then a few years later to Shrewsbury, and onwards to Leicester. After several moves there, Ray finally became the manager of Barclays Bank in Oadby. When Ray was moved from Worcester, he joined the Territorial Army in which he served for 33 years with the rank of Major, earning his Territorial Decoration (presented by Princess Anne) and three bars. He was paymaster for several regiments and units and earned the nickname ‘Ray the Pay’. He really enjoyed his Army life. Ray enjoyed playing golf and excelled at DIY jobs but what he enjoyed most was family time. He was never too busy to listen to the girls, play with them, or teach them. Holidays were always fun with Pops. He was known for his jokes – he always had a new joke with which to greet his friends. When he was 50 Ray decided that he had had enough of the rat race and took early retirement. He was amused by the fact that the bank paid him for longer in retirement than when he was in employment.
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Following a cardiac episode, Ray was admitted to the Coronary Care Unit at Glenfield hospital where he received exemplary care but died very peacefully on 26 December 2023 with all his family present. A life well lived. A man well loved. The Franklin Family Michael Hamand (H 52-59) 1941 - 2024 Michael certainly remembered his time at King’s with happiness, and he made some very good friends with whom he kept in touch until they died, in particular, the late Chris ‚Stan‘ Potten (H 50-59) and Bill Garrett (H 54-59). Mrs C Hamand
Worcester.
Brigadier P F B Hargrave CBE D L (H 44-52) 1934 - 2024 Pat Hargrave was born in Wolverley, Worcestershire and educated at King’s School
He was a recruit at Norton Barracks from November 1952 prior to training at Eaton Hall Officer Cadet School for a Short Service Commission between July - November 1953. He joined 1st Battalion The Worcestershire Regiment (1WORCS) in Iserlohn and spent the next five years in Germany and the West Indies as a platoon commander, Regimental Signals Officer and Adjutant. He returned to UK to train recruits at the Mercian Brigade Depot, Lichfield, as Adjutant, prior to returning to 1 WORCS in BAOR before going to Aden as a grade 3 staff officer. Between 1965/66 he was a student at the Army Staff College, Camberley, before joining the Defence Secretariat in the MOD, London. He commanded a company in 1WORCS and then 1WFR in Bulford, Cyprus and Warminster over the period of the amalgamation. Following his attendance at the Joint Services Staff Course at Latimer in 1971, he was posted to HQ Land Forces in Wilton and then HQ The Prince of Wales’s Division at Lichfield before taking command of 1WFR in Ballykelly and Colchester, for which he was awarded the OBE.
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After a short tour at Latimer as a member of the Directing staff, he was posted on promotion to Colonel as Commander BRITCOM in the United Nations Force in Cyprus, Nicosia. On promotion to Brigadier, he was then posted to Ulster as Commander of the Ulster Defence Regiment between 198082, for which he was raised to CBE. He was also appointed ADC to HM The Queen in 1980. From June 1982 - January 1985 he was Director Army Recruiting in London. It was during this tour that in March 1983 he became Colonel, The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment. His final appointment in the Army was Assistant Commandant, The Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst between 1985-1988 prior to retiring on 15th February 1988 and becoming Bursar of Repton School until 1997. In 1991 he was appointed Deputy Lord Lieutenant of the County of Derbyshire. On retirement he lived outside Salisbury. In his early career Pat was a very fine shot and represented the Regiment at Bisley. His hobbies included sailing, gardening DIY and beekeeping. He married Susan Hughes, herself a daughter of the Regiment, in 1960 and they had three children. Dr John Paddock FSA Rupert Nicholas (Nick) Hedges (Br 55-63) 1943 – 2025 Nick Hedges, who has died aged 81, was a photographer w h o s e compassionate lens exposed the harsh realities of Britain’s urban poor in the 1960s and 70s. His work, particularly with the housing charity Shelter, helped shift public perception and fuel social reform. Born in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, in 1943 to Norman, a timber merchant manager, and Dorothy, an arts and crafts teacher, Hedges was educated at King’s School, Worcester. His political awareness and love of jazz were awakened in his teens. In 1965, he joined the photography course at Birmingham School of Art, where he embraced the radicalism of the era and was inspired by American documentary photographers including
Dorothea Lange and Walker Evans. In 1966, a new charity was launched: Shelter, the National Campaign for the Homeless. In 1968, Shelter commissioned Hedges to document the appalling housing conditions in cities including Birmingham, Newcastle, Glasgow, Manchester, Liverpool and London. His images, shot in grainy monochrome, were raw and powerful, capturing not just poverty, but the dignity and resilience of those living through it. “Part of my duty as a photographer is to honour the trust placed in me by people with no voice,” he once said. Using a 35mm Leica and natural light, he worked unobtrusively, often crouched in corners of cramped rooms. His subjects were never posed; the authenticity of their lives unfolded naturally before his lens. Hedges’ photographs became a vital part of Shelter’s campaigns, used to educate the public and advocate for better housing. He believed in photography as political activism, and his work helped galvanise support for social housing reform. After leaving Shelter in 1972, Hedges worked as a freelance photographer for organisations including Mencap, the BBC and Penguin Books. A commission from the Royal Town Planning Institute led to the 1976 exhibition Problem in the City at London’s ICA. He later received an Arts Council fellowship to document working lives in the West Midlands, culminating in the 1982 book Born to Work. In 1980, Hedges transitioned to teaching, becoming head of photography at West Midlands College of Higher Education and later at the University of Wolverhampton. He retired in 2003 due to ill health. For decades, Hedges restricted the use of his Shelter photographs to protect the identities of his subjects, particularly children. As the 50th anniversary of the charity approached, though, he lifted the embargo. This meant the images were exhibited as Make Life Worth Living at the Science Museum in London. The exhibition was widely acclaimed and earned him the 2016 Hood Medal from the Royal Photographic Society. His Shelter work was later published in the books Home and Street.
Filmmaker Ken Loach described Hedges’ work as “deeply human… important as evidence. This is how life is, and how it was.” Nick Hedges is survived by his daughters, Ruth and Annie, from his marriage to Diana Roberts, four grandchildren, and siblings Roger and Julie. Extract from The Guardian Obituaries Mary Ann Wynne Garrad – Co-founder of Hawford Lodge School (now King’s Hawford) 1930 - 2024 Our mother, Mary Ann Wynne Willson, was born on 7th November 1930, in Long Ashton, Somerset, the eldest of four children. When war broke out, the family moved to Lincolnshire where her father joined the Anti-Aircraft Command. As Janet, her sister, put it, “During the war Mary Ann really became our mother’s right hand, together they learned to cook and, in 1943, aged 12, she cared for all of us when Sarah was born, we were bombed out, and we all had measles!” Mary Ann’s war-time experiences were the perfect training for her future life at Hawford Lodge. Whilst still at school, Mary Ann met Douglas Garrad, the charming, energetic son of the vicar of a neighbouring parish, just back from two years in the Navy. They were soon engaged. Theirs was a great love and they remained devoted throughout their long lives. Mary Ann was a gifted musician, and, in 1948, she attended the Royal Academy of Music where she was awarded the LRAM, a professional teaching diploma. Impatient to be married, she cut her training short, marrying Douglas in August 1951. By 1953 Charles and Andrew had been born. Mary Ann and Douglas dreamed of opening their own school and, when an uncle died leaving Douglas just enough money to buy the (then crumbling) Hawford Lodge, they embarked on their joint adventure. Their plan was ahead of its time, a day
school where pupils would be happy, with no homework (at least at first), a relaxed uniform of corduroy shorts and bomber jackets, plenty of time outside and excellent food.
At King’s, John excelled academically. Although accepted into two universities, John opted for a career in finance, securing a role at Barclays Bank in Birmingham.
Hawford Lodge opened in 1955 with just fifteen boys and quickly grew in numbers and reputation. The couple’s youthful energy and enthusiasm, and Mary Ann’s charm, caring nature, and fantastic cooking powered the school’s success.
John married Linda in the early 1970s, raising two children, Stephanie and Becca, in a countryside home near Worcester. Despite becoming a manager at Barclays, he disliked the commute into the busy city and decided to leave banking in the early 1980s. For two years, he managed a pub called The Freak at Highworth near Swindon. Though the pub thrived, redundancy led him back to Barclays, this time in sales, focusing on life cover, investments, and mortgages. The sales role offered him the freedom he enjoyed, getting out on the road to see clients.
Over the next three decades, as the school and the family grew (Caroline was born in 1958 and Alice in 1959), Mary Ann, and her team of ‘ladies’ produced delicious home-cooked meals, always maintaining the family atmosphere and putting flowers on the school tables every day. There were delicious Christmas lunches and legendary prize day teas for hundreds. Mary Ann loved singing in the Worcester Festival Choral Society. Three Choirs Festivals were much anticipated when Mary Ann combined singing with catering, on a grand scale, for the Festival Club in College Hall. She conducted the Ombersley WI choir for 15 years. Meanwhile Mum was a wonderful mother, not just to us, but to the whole school. Her children, ten grand-children and eight great-grand-children were always at the centre of her life. In 1989, Mary Ann and Douglas retired but remained at Lower Hawford. In 1995, Hawford Lodge merged with King’s, a source of great pride and satisfaction. The connection with King’s Hawford remained strong and both relished the welcome they received at school events. After Douglas’s death in 2021, Mary Ann lived a quiet life at home, enjoying the sounds of the school flourishing around her. Mum died peacefully on November 30th, 2024. Alice Garrad John M Keene (Br 63-70) 1952 - 2024 John Michael Keene was born in Worcester in March 1952. His father was as a telephone engineer, and John had an elder sister, Valerie.
John settled in Highworth with his family, but this ended in divorce a few years later. He then met Angela and moved with her to Chiseldon near Swindon. Many years later, his daughters married, and between them gave John six grandchildren and three greatgrandchildren. Professionally, John was head-hunted a few times, eventually becoming a partner at St James’s Place. His clients included notable figures such as Johnny Morris, whom he befriended until Johnny’s death. John and Angela co-wrote a book detailing Johnny Morris‘s final years, with significant media attention on publication. Earlier, in 1999, they had published a book about Angela’s greatgrandfather, Cornelius (“Nelus”), based on his Boer War diary. Passionate about history, John enjoyed visiting castles, collecting antique weapons, and attending auctions. Music, poetry, and holidays in France in their motorhome were cornerstones of his life. He was himself a very talented poetry writer. In 2003, John and Angela moved to Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, and later to a barn conversion nearby. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2011, John coped well, maintaining his humour, never moaning about the condition, and even wrote a light-hearted poem, I’m Dopey!. As
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the disease progressed faster than expected, he retired early, while Angela worked to support them. By last year, John had lost his ability to walk, spending most of his time reading or watching TV. Despite his challenges, he faced his condition with remarkable resilience. In November 2024, John was hospitalised with pneumonia. Though his recovery seemed promising, he unexpectedly deteriorated, passing away on 13 November 2024. He was only 72 years old. Angela Keene H. Martin Lorenz (S 45-50) 1932 – 2025 Born in Vienna, Austria in 1932, Martin and his brother Fred personally witnessed Hitler at a rally soon after the invasion of Austria, and so keen were they to be part of the “terribly cool” Hitler Youth, they fashioned themselves “lookalike” armbands, only to (fortunately) be denied entry due to their partial Jewish heritage. Martin’s family went on to tragically suffer immense hardship at the hands of the National Socialists, with family members murdered in concentration camps. Martin, Fred, and their mother remarkably escaped to England in a small propeller plane, landing at Croydon airport – a feat made possible through family sponsorship. Their mother was interned on the Isle of Man, which was usual for citizens of an “enemy state”, while Martin and Fred found a home in a Malvern orphanage throughout the war until reunited with their mother, and then joining King’s Worcester. Learning English during the war, Martin truly embraced his British identity. Martin was a popular and cherished character, renowned for his quick but always hilarious wit. During his national service, Martin mastered Russian, a skill that led him to work in industry in Russia during an incredibly tense period in AngloRussian relations culminating in him
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being expelled from Russia, accused of being a spy! Martin’s professional career was diverse: working in industry, as a teacher, and his true calling as a sculptor, taking commissions from individuals and esteemed institutions alike. His unique pieces can be found in the British Museum and the Sherlock Holmes Museum; a lasting testament to his incredible talent. In the late Sixties, Marting met and married Sue. They lived in Moscow for a time before settling in England, in Kiln House in Crazies Hill, a house that became a home full of love not only for Martin, Sue, Tom and Anna but also many others who they chose to share it with. Working mainly from home in his shed meant Martin was always there for Tom and Anna growing up. There are also memories of all the places he took Tom and Anna to visit including the many churches, although his enthusiasm for pointing out flying buttresses was not always appreciated by them as teenagers! Martin’s appreciation for education and knowledge stemmed from his own challenging life, marked by loss and reinvention. After Sue’s death, Martin found strength in creativity, becoming a skilled cook and host, and continuing to look after his family. The arrival of the grandchildren Will, Oli and Sophie was a source of great joy. Known affectionately as “Bappy”, he wasted no time in involving himself in the children’s play. In latter years, Martin enjoyed life with his loving partner Sylvia by his side, the pair supporting and caring for each other, and continuing to make the most of life. Martin’s dedication to community was evident through his many passions. A keen and active member of the Oxford Sculptors Group, he was instrumental in establishing the well-regarded Greys Court Sculpture in the Garden exhibition. His commitment also shone at the Wargrave Theatre Workshop, where he was active on stage, backstage and in management, as well as being an enthusiastic member of various poetryreading and wood-carving clubs.
Martin will be greatly missed but how fortunate we were to have been able to share in his life. Précis of Martin’s obituary in the Henley Standard Graham Marchant OBE (W 53-63) 1945 - 2024 Graham was born in Worcester, the son of Dorothy (née Wood) and Leslie Marchant, who served in the RAF and was a removals estimator and bookmaker. From King’s, Graham went to Selwyn College, Cambridge, gaining a degree in English. He then embarked on a varied and influential arts management career in 1973, starting as administrator of the Actors Company, founded by Ian McKellen and Edward Petherbridge. In 1975, Graham joined the conductor Steuart Bedford and the director Colin Graham to reinvent The English Opera Group, which had been founded in 1947 by Benjamin Britten, creating a touring company: English Music Theatre. In 1978 Lord (George) Harewood, managing director of English National Opera (ENO), and David Lloyd-Jones, as music director, instituted English National Opera North, based in Leeds and touring other northern cities. Graham joined them as general administrator, recruiting musicians, directors and designers, with the ambition to present opera rarely seen in Britain. Another ambition was to showcase British works, and from 1982 the company became Opera North, independent of ENO, a radical departure anticipating the now accepted principle of regional devolution. As administrator of the Tricycle Theatre in London (1983-84), Graham made it a leading home for new writing; it continues to thrive as the Kiln Theatre. Other theatre posts in the capital followed at Riverside Studios (1984) and the Playhouse Theatre (1985-86). Graham’s appointment as the Arts Council’s first and only Director of Arts Coordination (1986-89) brought his clear-eyed analysis to many of its trickier problems. In 1986, management
of the Southbank Centre was transferred to the Arts Council, and Graham joined the new Southbank Board as head of site improvement (1989-92). A passion in his later career was dance, as a director of Ballet Rambert (199193) and the Shobana Jeyasingh Dance Company (1999-2001, chair 2011-12), and chair of the London Dance Network (1998-99) and National Dance Coordinating Committee (2000-03). He led the Place as general manager and London Contemporary Dance School as school director (1994-98) through one of the organisation’s most difficult periods. From 1989 Graham did consultancy work for various organisations. In 2009, for the now Arts Council England, he produced a report on the Royal Opera House’s aim of establishing a second base in Manchester, giving the idea a cautious welcome. In the difficult economic circumstances of the time, this came to nothing, though ENO is now due to establish its main base in Manchester by 2029. In 2011 Graham was appointed OBE. In 2019, Graham married his long-term partner, barrister Andrew Hochhauser KC. Graham became involved with the law as a magistrate (2003-14), Chair of the bench at Thames Magistrates, a member of the Lord Chancellor’s panel for the selection of magistrates and a mentor for those becoming Justices of the Peace. His great passion outside the arts was gardening, in his own home and with the Canonbury Square community gardening group. An optimist, he uncomplainingly overcame the challenges that followed his Parkinson’s diagnosis in 2007. Graham is survived by Andrew, and his sisters, Pat and Doreen; his brother, Dave, predeceased him. With thanks to Ruth Mackenzie, The Guardian George O‘Neill (Cr 42-47) 1931 - 2025 First XI Cricket at King’s and then into the OV Cricket Club (I believe one of the founding members).
George emigrated to Australia as a “Ten Pound Pom” in the late 1950s living in Adelaide, married an Australian, Lorraine, and had three children, Michael, Angela and Lisa, and had 9 grandchildren. He carried on loving his sport being a keen golfer, and in later years an avid Crown Green bowler. Rob O‘Neill (Cl 82-89) Andrew W Rankin (W 74-84) 1965 - 2025 Andy Rankin died peacefully surrounded by his family on 7th June 2025 in St. Elizabeth’s Hospice, Ipswich after a brave and courageous fight against cancer. Andy, 59, dearly beloved husband of Helen and much-loved Dad of Ellie, Hannah, Tom and Martha was cremated at a private service before a celebration of his life at St. Mary’s Church, Woodbridge on 4th July 2025. Andy was born in Powick to Malcolm and the late Susan Rankin where he grew up with brother Will and sister Sally, on Ridgeway Farm. He attended Powick Primary School and then joined St. Albans, King’s School where he remained until he took his A-levels. After school, he attended Harper Adams Agricultural College, here he developed the skills to become a farmer, a profession he truly loved. In his early career, he worked on the family farm before moving to Suffolk to manage a farm for the Kemball family and more recently spending 20 years managing 10,000 acres for Phillip Westrope. Alongside his farming commitments Andy developed a storage business. In the last eight years of his life, Andy built the business into the success it is today, alongside working with his father on the family farm which diversified into business units and storage. Andy split his time between the two sites, recently commenting “When I am in Worcester, I am in heaven and when I am in Suffolk, I am in heaven”. Andy was a talented musician and joined Flaming Cheek as their keyboard player in 2005. Lots of fun followed as the band entertained the Suffolk locals. This culminated in a charity fund raiser for the hospice in December 2024 where he raised more than £35,000.
Andy had many passions, with rugby being at the fore. He had played throughout his education and then for Woodbridge, until injury cut short his career. It was therefore with great pride that he took on a coaching role with the club for his son Tom’s age group. The team achieved much success under his leadership. He retired when the boys reached Colts but continued to support the club and was delighted when Tom was selected to play for the first team in 2024. Through meeting likeminded friends at the rugby club, he joined a local pub quiz team. He was a regular attender on a Thursday night, and any winnings were spent on lottery tickets. Unfortunately, the big win didn’t materialise, but he had planned how it would be spent! Andy cherished spending time with friends and stayed closely connected with a wide circle, travelling to France each year with old classmates from King’s School. Andy lived life to the full, always planning the next project and throwing himself into it. He was determined to make the most of the time he had and throughout his journey his family and friends were constantly his priority. Always entertaining, kind, supportive and a committed family man, he will be sadly missed by everyone who knew him. Helen Rankin Dr Patrick Shannon (Cl 4957) 1938 - 2024 It is with great sadness that the family of Dr Patrick Shannon announce his passing at the age of 86, on 1st November 2024. Patrick passed away peacefully in Minchinhampton, Gloucestershire, and is much missed by his partner Linda and sons Hugh and Lawrence. His life was celebrated at Cheltenham Crematorium on 21 November 2024. Patrick had an unusual background, being born in London, but as a baby fostered to Kathleen Thomas (BEM) in Malvern. Dad and Kath lodged in various addresses in the town during the war, and for several years after the war squatted in a hut on the abandoned
Vigornian 2024/25 • 145
US Army base on Pickersleigh Road. Patrick remained in this temporary accommodation until Kath’s growing family was awarded a newly-built council house in Malvern in 1950, a year or two after he had started to attend King’s, perhaps making him the only technically homeless pupil to have been a student! The opportunity for Patrick to attend King’s had come about through the school’s participation in the Direct Grant scheme of the postwar years, in which local authorities and central government funded places at grammar schools, and in areas like Worcestershire where such provision was lacking, independent schools. Patrick had done well in the 11 plus exam he had taken at Somers Park Primary in Malvern, and this qualified him for a full scholarship to study at King’s from September 1949. Patrick remained grateful for this opportunity throughout his life, and was very aware that few from his background were afforded such a chance. Patrick stayed for a third year in the sixth form at King’s, which was not uncommon at the time, as it allowed for the sitting of higher papers that could award scholarships, and he was successful in winning such a scholarship to read Science at St Andrews in 1957. Patrick’s name is recorded in College Hall. Patrick remained in academia, gaining his Doctorate from Oxford University in 1964, then carried out post-doctoral research at Trinity College Dublin, before taking up a post as a lecturer in Organic Chemistry at Cardiff University, where he worked until retirement. Aside from teaching generations of chemists, his research work, in collaborations with colleagues from all over the world, was published in the most prestigious journals, and he held many patents. Patrick felt indebted to the half dozen or so teachers from King’s that encouraged him in a lifelong interest in the sciences he studied there and was always thankful to the school for opening his eyes to the world of Chemistry, which gave him so much pleasure, and shaped his working life. Although living in South Wales, until recent years Patrick continued his association with Worcester by helping change the flowers in the Cathedral’s St George’s Chapel. Hugh Shannon
146 • Vigornian 2024/25
Tim Watson (Hon OV) Staff Tim Watson taught physics at King’s from 1969 to 1995, joining the school from Milton Abbey and before that, Australia. Tim was also Housemaster of Wulstan. Tim (or Timmy as he was affectionately known) had a unique style of teaching. He was also an immensely supportive colleague and approached his work with energy, thought and freshness in ways that were inspirational, especially for colleagues just starting out. Generations of students learned from the unique questions he devised. Both his dogs, Katie and Tigger, as well as teddy bears, were stars of many adventures in his hand-written questions. They appeared in prams rolling down friction-compensated slopes, on rocket-powered toboggans, and dropping out of windows of high buildings. His knowledge of the subject was extensive and rigorously sound. The Institute of Physics used Tim to correct textbooks produced by the National Curriculum Council, which he did with characteristic honesty. Many will be also be familiar with his passion to share his understanding about Newton‘s Third Law – a passion that continued right until his death. Tim had a deep interest in philosophy and history, and read widely throughout his life. He enjoyed writing regularly to the Guardian, about a wide range of topics, and more than once was delighted to have his letter published. Many will remember Tim for his rowing. He was an innovator in applying science and physics to training. He was a dedicated coach, including coaching the Four which won at the National Schools Regatta in 1977. He used to run and cycle along the towpath as he coached - legend has it that his rucksack was full of bricks to help him keep fit. He used physics to develop his understanding of the technical aspects of rowing, and as a result he was invited to be part of the recreation of the Greek trireme in 1987. Tim spent
several summers in the Mediterranean helping to test the craft and its rowing arrangements. He also designed a pitch gauge for setting up boats which he originally made from wood himself. It is now manufactured internationally but still has ‘Watson Pitch’ written on it and is a widely used device in British rowing. In typical Tim style, he never wanted to profit from it and gave away his rights; he only wanted for others to be able to use it. One of his strongest beliefs was that failure was as important as success, and he was always very supportive of those who chose an unconventional route. This often marked him out in a culture where standard academic achievement was so important. He was instrumental in encouraging King’s to acknowledge all leavers’ next steps – even when they weren’t going on to university – firmly believing that people should do what is right for them, not what others think they should do. Tim was a fine physicist, a gifted and entertaining teacher, and an inspirational and expert oarsman. We shall miss a very thoughtful man who held passionate views, and was honest, generous and kind. Melanie Jarman (née Watson, E 85-87) and Peter Watson (S 75-83) The Revd Canon Michael Weaver (Cr 49-56) 1939 - 2025 The Revd Canon Michael Weaver died peacefully in April 2025 in Arundel. Known as Father Michael to his flock, and plain Michael to his friends, he served the church community of St Nicholas and St Leonard South Stoke and the wider community of Arundel with great faithfulness and devoted pastoral care for twenty years, from 1976 -1996. Michael will be best remembered for his loving commitment to the two communities of St Nicholas and Arundel, expressed practically in the day-to-day constancy of his pastoral care and involvement. Michael also had a special place for Arundel Church of England School in his ministry and was a frequent visitor, serving for some years as Chair of Governors.
Throughout his ministry in Arundel, Michael was supported by his wife Suzanne and their sons Greg, Roddy, and Benjy. Our thoughts and prayers are with them all. After serving in Lymington, and a few years of retirement on the Isle of Wight, Michael and Suzanne moved back to Arundel in 2015. True to form, Michael continued his church ministry by serving until very recently as a locum priest to Lyminster and Poling churches. He also found great comfort in being accepted by The Poor Clare Sisters as part of their community. Michael will be greatly missed and remembered by many. Perhaps some old words best summarise his life: “But Christ’s own law, and His apostles’ twelve he taught, but first he followed it himself.” Dr Andy Mott Michael B Wilkes (W 72-77 and Old Hawfordian) 1959 - 2025 Michael Brian Wilkes sadly died after a courageous fight with cancer on 24th February 2025. Mike attended at Hawford from 1967 to 1972 and at King’s from 1972 to 1977 in Wulstan House. He was a keen rugby player and was in the 1st XV at Kings. He leaves behind a wife and four sons. Mike was a qualified surveyor and helped set up and run the national network known as Allied Surveyors. He lived and worked in Bournemouth and his great passion was always rugby as a player, club officer, sponsor and supporter. Mike was involved in Bournemouth RFC for over 40 years and that dedication was celebrated by the club in December 2024, with a special day in his honour. Richard Wilkes (W 76-86) Dr David Willmer (Hon OV) Staff 1949 - 2024 When I think about my dad, I think a lot about his many contradictory qualities. He was
never happier than when we all “left him in peace” to do The Times crossword or pore over the latest stamp catalogue. But he also loved any social occasion - ask any of his friends and they would say he was often the life and soul of the party. He expected high standards from his students (and kids), always wanting to see the people around him do their best and take pride in their work. But alongside that, he could also be incredibly patient when he was teaching. Believe me - he tutored me through my Maths GCSE and that was no mean feat. And he was generous to a fault with his family; in spite of the running joke we had about the moths in his wallet. Yet he never really wanted much for himself he was content with the simple things in life as long as he knew his family was happy. In his last few months, he was at pains to let me know that my Mum, myself, my brothers and his grandkids meant the world to him. Born in 1949 in Stockton, David then moved around the world with his military family. They lived in Wales, Scotland, Germany and Malaysia, and he also attended boarding school in Singapore, before moving back to the Northeast. He did well academically, eventually going to University College London to complete his Maths degree. He later went on to achieve a PhD. He married Barbara in 1971, before the arrival of myself and my brother, Gareth. After a few happy years in Scarborough at the start of his teaching career, he then got the travel bug again and the family moved to Saudi Arabia, where he taught at the University of Petroleum and Minerals. During this time, another son, Mark, arrived. The majority of his career, though, was spent at the King’s School. He started working there in 1986 and spent the next 25 years teaching maths and organising the timetable, before retiring in 2010. In the years since, his greatest pleasures have been spending time with his three grandkids, collecting stamps and writing articles for publications such as the newsletter of the Great Britain Philatelic Society, his daily Times crossword puzzle and a few drams of whisky.
new community of great friends that he loved spending time with. We said goodbye to Dad just before Christmas, two and a half years after his cancer diagnosis. His funeral was packed with so many family members and friends, and I know he would have loved his send off, which he insisted should not be a sad affair. Instead, it was a bringing together of so many people from his life in Worcester, Guisborough, and beyond, with shared stories and a true celebration of his life. Alix Hubble (née Willmer, Cl 93-95) OV deaths reported since the 2023-24 Vigornian: Miles Badger (Cr 83-90) Lt Col G D Bailey (Ca 43-54) Paul W Baker (H 55-65) George G H Bananuka (S 73-74) Darius Baria (K 84-91) Christopher Bentall (Cr 50-59) Chris Byrne (Cr 56-66 and Old St Alban’s) David Clark (Cl 50-56) Peter J Cummin (Ch 60-69 and Old St Alban’s) Lt Col Brian Davenport (Ca 55-60) Clive Everton (Cl 1957) Keith Fielding (W 61-68) Mary-Ann Garrad (Former staff - Hawford) John Gaston (Ca 49-55) Anthony (Tony) Goff (H 57-61) David Gregory (S 50-58) Derek Griffiths (Cl 57-66 and Old St Alban’s) Robin Hall (Ch 52-60) Michael Hamand (H 52-59) Brig Pat Hargraves (H 44-52) Rupert Nicholas (Nick) Hedges (Br 55-63) William (Bill) Holden (42-47) Harry Howell (H 45-50) Timothy Jones (Ch 55-62) John M Keene (Br 63-70) H. Martin Lorenz (S 45-50) Graham Marchant (W 53-63) George O’Neill (Dayboys 42-47) Robin Phillips (Cr 76-83) Peter J Randle (Ch 50-57) Andrew W Rankin (W 74-84) His Honour Judge (Reginald) John Rubery (Ca 48-53) Patrick Shannon (Cl 49-57) Dr Mark Smith (H 62-71) Arthur Smith (Dayboys 48-56) Peter R Stephens (Br 63-68) David Venables (Dayboys 44-49) Tim Watson (Hon OV) The Revd Canon Michael Weaver (Cr 49-56) Nick J Westley (K 74-85 and Old St Alban’s) Michael B Wilkes (W 76-86 and Old Hawfordian) Dr David Willmer (Hon OV) Alexander H Wilson (Ca 57-63)
In 2020, David and Barbara moved back to the Northeast, settling in Guisborough and creating a brand-
Vigornian 2024/25 • 147
King’s Worcester Teaching Staff 2024/2025 Dr A R Oliver
Acting Head
Mrs K H Beever
Deputy Head Academic
Miss H Dyke
Deputy Head Safeguarding and Compliance
Mr R Davis Mr T Sharp
English
Mrs G Hardy
Head of UCAS Applications
Dr R McLaverty-Head Religion and Philosophy
History
Art Head of Oxbridge &
Academic Enrichment
Dr M Poole Rev M Dorsett
Mrs S Lucas
English
Mr W McGarvey
Head of History and Politics
Mrs K Collins
PE and Games
Chemistry
Mrs E Woodward
Geography
Miss L Herdman
PE and Games
Head of Wulstan House
Mrs N Sears
History
Mrs R Kent
Head of Psychology
Religion and Philosophy
Head of Chappel House
Assistant Head of Middle Years
Chaplain
Mr O Heydon
Head of Mathematics
Mrs K Knott
PE and Games
Mrs N Essenhigh
Biology
Mr W Joyce
Geography
Mr E Low
Head of English
Mr A Gillgrass
Politics/PE and Games
Head of Creighton House
Mr O Shone
Learning Skills
Mr S Cuthbertson
Geography
Mr J Sarriegui
MFL
Mr R Ward
History
Mr C Haywood
Head of Art
Mr S Taranczuk
Director of Music
Mr B Williams
PE and Games
Mr C Wilson
Head of Design and Technology
Dr C Brown
Biology
Mr R Booth
Design and Technology
Mr R Ball
Head of Modern Foreign
Head of Staffing Systems
Mrs P McConalogue
Biology
Languages Mr J Mason
Foundation Director of Sport
Mrs D Clarke
Maths
Mrs C Gent
Economics & Business
Mr C Atkinson
PE and Games
Mr E Houghton
MFL
Mrs K Lewis
Classics
Dr R James
Chemistry
Mrs L Miller-Symonds Director of Sport
Mrs V Lloyd-Smith
English
Head of Choir House
Mrs E Shepherd
Classics
Mrs C Payne
Psychology
Mr E Lummas
Design and Technology
Mr A Swarbrick
Maths
Ms S Rhodes
English
Dr M Parkin
Biology
Mrs R Roberts
Chemistry
Mr R Chapman
Maths
Mrs R Rutter
MFL
Ms L Ruiz Pelaez
MFL
Head of Lower Years
Mrs R Worth
Biology
Mr A Knights
Physics
Miss J Haynes
Performance Netball Coach
Assistant Head of Lower Years
Mrs S Parry
Head of Drama
Mr J Hemming
Maths
Mr G Gunter
Music
Miss K Lane
Drama and Theatre
Mrs L Slater-Klein
Drama
Mrs D Salkeld
Maths
Mrs C Yates
Head of French
Mr A Jackson
Maths
Mrs S Bradley
Head of Classics
Mr D Branchett
Head of Computing
Mrs M Kelly
German
Mrs E Friend
Head of Economics and Business Mr E Lewis
Maths
Miss P Sanders
PE and Games
Mr J Chalmers
Head of Rowing
Mrs A Gamble
Physics
Mrs K Matthews
Chemistry
Mrs C Neville
Geography
Mrs L Beard
Biology
Ms I Carron
Head of Learning Skills
Assistant Head of Sixth Form
Mr N Blakemore
Computing
Mr W Collier
Teacher of Psychology
Head of Kittermaster House
Mrs D Drew
MFL
Ms A Pardoe
Teacher of Art
Design and Technology
Mr S Greenall
PE and Games
Miss A Cox
Director of Netball
Head of Castle House
Mr L Ison
Head of Chemistry
Mrs S Behan
Head of PSHE and RSE
Mrs L Walmsley
English
Mrs E K Booth
Classics
Mr C Webster
Teacher of History
Mrs J Lucas
Head Learning Skills
Miss K Arnold
Chemistry
Mrs Y Beardsmore
Teacher of Physics
Mr G Williams
Economics & Business
Mr A Deichen
Head of Curriculum,
Reporting and Data
Mrs R Shearburn
Head of Spanish
Physics
Mr J Gardiner
Maths
Head of School House
Mr J Hand
Maths
Dr C Petchsingh
Physics
Head of Sixth Form
Ms J Ellis
Art
Miss J Hewitt
Art
Mrs H Lacey
Biology
Mrs A Fellows
English
Miss G Ormandy
Geography
Mr T Pearson
Mrs R Dyke
Head of English
Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead
148 • Vigornian 2024/25
Mrs A Fitzpatrick
Maths
King’s Worcester Support Staff 2024/2025 Miss G Mason
Director of Finance and Business Development
Mr A Winter
Director of Operations
Mrs C Furber
School Nurse
Mr W Bird
Rowing - Boatman
Mrs L Lewis
Payroll Assistant
Ms N McNamee
Cleaning Manager
Miss E Rossiter
School Nurse
Mr M Underhill
Minibus Driver
Mr F McFee
Caretaker
Mr H Cronin
Strength and Conditioning
Coach
Mrs J Walters
School Nurse
Ms T Hundley
Cleaning
Mrs J Palmer
DT Technician
Ms J Timberlake
Minibus Driver
Mr T Price
Estates
Mrs E Ward
Director of Marketing
Mrs B Ganot
Language Assistant
Mr G Collins
Groundsperson
Mrs R Wilkes
Spanish Language Assistant Mrs J Evans
Receptionist
Mrs D Paddock
Music Secretary
Mr S Tongue
ICT Manager
Mr I Booth
Head of Transport
Mr N Clines
Maintenance
Miss J Woodward
Common Room Catering
Mr B Humphries
Estates Assistant
Mrs P Bladen
Senior Secretary
Dr K Watkinson
Biology Technician
Mrs F Cook
Executive Assistant to the
Headmaster Mrs M Richardson
School Secretary
Mrs A Ellis
Finance
Mrs A Spencer
Foundation Admission Officer
Ms H Hateley
SIMS Manager
Mr P Harding
CCF
Miss T Webb
Office Administrator
Mrs C Nesbitt
School Secretary
Mr S Bain
Biology Technician
Mrs S Huxley
DMR Assistant
Ms M Glarvey
Exams Officer
Mrs B Gamble
Chemistry Technician
Mr S East
Minibus Driver
Mrs J Timlin
Art Technician
Mrs C Tedino
HR Coordinator
Mr W Maughan
Minibus Driver
Ms J Harrell
DT Technician
Mrs M Hacklett
Finance
Mr A Sanderson
Minibus Driver
Mr R Barker
Estates Manager
Mr T Harper
Estates
Mr R Gibson
Rowing Coach
Ms A Jeffery
Library
Miss E Southall
Digital Marketing Manager
Mr S D’Ambrosi
Maintenance
Mr D Cox
IT Department
Mrs E Sydenham
Compliance Manager and
Clerk to Governors
Mrs C Kemp
Assistant Finance Officer
Mr W Calvert
Groundsperson
Mr M Siglioccolo
Counsellor
Mrs K Turner
HR Manager
Mrs A Grove
Financial Controller
Mrs A Sutcliffe
Alumni Relations
Co-ordinator
Ms K Quirke
Dedicated Pupil Support
Mr T Woodward
Health & Safety Advisor
Mrs C Owen
School Secretary
Mrs A Coward
Minibus Driver
Mrs M Capell
Library
Mrs G Brooks
Minibus Driver
Mr D Dignam
Minibus Driver
Mrs M Quigley
School Secretary
Mrs J Sinclair-Knipe
Cover Supervisor
Mr S Butler
ICT Support Technician
Mrs C Perera
DMR Officer
Mrs A Odam
School Nurse
Mrs G O’Sullivan
Mr L Saunders
Physics Technician
Mr Q Javed
Senior ICT Support Technician Mr R Howlett
ICT Support Technician
Payroll Co-ordinator
Mrs T Pardoe
Lunchtime Supervisor
Mrs E Bennett
Learning Skills Administrator Mr R Herbert Lead
Rowing Coach
Mrs S Guest
School Secretary
Mrs K Marsh
Receptionist
Mr K Perry
Minibus Driver
Mrs I Carson
Kitchen
Mrs M McCumisky
Careers Advisor
Mr M Bottomer
Groundsperson
Mrs G Bruce
HR Assistant
Mrs S Eiser
Marketing Assistant
Ms S Swanwick
Marketing and Communications
Manager Miss A Cross
Finance
Mr A Walker
Minibus Driver
Mr P Haynes
Theatre Manager
Mrs H Sparrey
Head of Alumni & Business
Mr J Holmes
Development
Mr I Roberts Mr M Wise
Estates Manager Minibus Driver
Head Grounds Person
Vigornian 2024/25 • 149
Gap Students Hannah Odam Francesca Sly Caitlin Smith Will Rowley
Hawford GAP Sports GAP St Alban’s Graduate Drama Assistant Sports GAP St Alban’s
School Monitors Heads of School Eric Dykes and Amelia Venables Monitors Emily Andrews Jude Austin Matilda Bayliss Lola Bell Sonny Brown James Capell Sam Caskie Mille Dobson Eric Dykes Martha Evans
Amelia Venables Molly Graham Thomas Watson Esme Harris Jemima Hatcher Wilkins Joseph Young Polly Hickling Izzy Kavanagh Mischa Lotter William Mason Rebecca Nosworthy Amy Smithson Sam Taylor-Edwards William Tucker
King’s St Alban’s Staff 2024/2025 Headmaster - Mr Nick Hawker Deputy Head - Mr Adam Kent Assistant Head, Co-curricular - Mrs Keeley Beauchamp Assistant Head, Pre-Prep & SENCO - Miss Briony Cartwright Administrative Staff
Games Staff
Mrs Hilary Auty - School Administrator
Director of Sport - Mrs Jo Clark
Mrs Stacey Eiser - Marketing
Mr Charlie Hooman
Mrs Lizzie Monkhouse - Registrar
Mr Chris Jenkinson
Mrs Sara Sowney - School Secretary Junior School Teachers (Years 3 to 6)
Nursery
Mrs Fleur Atkinson
Nursery Manager - Mrs Sarah Pugh
Mrs Keeley Beauchamp
Mrs Sabah Ayub
Mrs Nicola Cain - Art
Mrs Rachel Byng
Mrs Katie Etherington
Miss Eve Davies
Mrs Vanessa Gunter - Head of Music
Mrs Kate Edwards
Mrs Lucinda Hand
Miss Allison Lewis
Mrs Helen Haggarty - Music
Mrs Valerie Monkhouse
Miss Alex Jordan
Miss Nichola Stray
Mrs Lisa Kilbey
Mrs Amanda Withnall
Mrs Eleanor Majhu Mrs Julie Pitts
Matrons
Mrs Nikola Ricketts
Mrs Nikki Flood
Mrs Karen Jenkins
Pre-Prep Teachers (Reception to Year 2)
Organist - Mr Nicholas Freestone
Miss Briony Cartwright Mrs Kate Chatterton
Maintenance
Mrs Ellie Fourie
Mr Terry Price
Mrs Louise Thorp
Teaching Assistants Mrs Albanie Cinao Mrs Rebecca Greenhill Mrs Charlie Holden-Milner Mrs Philly White Miss Becky Woodger
150 • Vigornian 2024/25
King’s Scholars Senior Scholars Emily Andrews James Capell Upper Sixth Sonny Brown Ellie Cartwright Sam Caskie Millie Dobson Eric Dykes Martha Evans Izzy Kavanagh Josh Lavarack Edmund Roberts Connor Yates
Choristers
Lower Sixth Samantha Capell Izzy Da Silva Pranav Mayilvahanan Sonali Prasad Alex Probert
Upper Remove Daisy Fitton Benedict Roberts Joe Taylor-Edwards Henrietta Venables
Upper Sixth Florence Price
Fifth Form Freddie Barwise Vinayak Chadha Arthur Morgan Ella Purves Oscar Sharman Ava Town
Lower Remove Florence Bulbulia Evelyn Roberts Edward Sydenham
Fifth Form Annabelle Bird
Lower Sixth Martha Evans Annabella Kenny
Upper Remove Molly Branchett Larissa Edwards-Hall Juliet Gardner Belinda Price
Upper Fourth Sebastian Clarke Florrie Cook George Holmes Henry Kamalarajan Lexi Quinn
Lower Remove James Pollock Benedict Roberts
Lower Fourth Oliver Atherton Ralph Daniel Arthur Tanner Rory Woodward
King’s Hawford Staff 2024/2025 Head - Mr Tom Butt
Head of Pre-Prep - Mr Oliver Roberts
Assistant Head Pastoral - Mrs Caroline Knight
Assistant Head Academic - Mr Richard Cook
Assistant Head Cocurricular - Mr Lorne Stigant Administrative Staff
Kindergarten Staff
Miss Laura Crowe - Head’s PA
Miss Katie Poole - Kindergarten Manager
Miss Gemma Woolley - School Secretary
Mrs Anna West - Deputy Kindergarten Manager
Mrs Melanie Adams - Registrar
Miss Farin Abdulla
Miss Valentina Chiarello
Junior School Teachers (Years 3 to 6)
Mrs Debbie Field
Mrs Joanna Atkins
Miss Rececca Gilmour
Mrs Charlotte Butt - Head of Girls Games
Miss Leah Knight
Mrs Katherine Cornish
Miss Keira Martin
Mrs Vicki English
Mrs Sam Powell
Mrs Paula Gregory
Mrs Jo Simons
Mr Sam Hodgkins
Miss Verity Tipper
Miss Gemma Holtham
Mrs Sue Watts
Mrs Grace Horrocks Mrs Sophie Hughes
Matron
Mrs Lisa Hyde
Mrs Ali Odam
Miss Vicky Lake
Mrs Jennifer Shukla
Miss Sophie-Jo Lusted Mrs Tara McCullough
After School Care/Sports Gap Students
Mrs Celia Rawnsley
Mr Elliot Brown
Mrs Janet Redman
Mrs Florjana Bufi
Miss Hannah Odam
Pre-Prep Teachers (Reception to Year 2) Miss Emma Lane
Catering Staff
Miss Anna Kingston
Mr John Perks - Catering Manager
Mrs Anna Leatherdale
Mrs Ceri Barker - Deputy Catering Manager
Mr Russ Marsland
Mrs Melissa Bates
Mrs Joanne Rand
Mrs Julie Duffy
Teaching Assistants
Mrs Angelika Ciezarek Mrs Jeany Prisecaru
Mrs Kirsten Beech Miss Gemma Collins - Dedicated Pupil Support
Art / Science Technician
Miss Tallulah Cox - Dedicated Pupil Support
Mrs Sue Elliott
Mrs Stefanie Danks Miss Holly Guest
Maintenance
Mrs Liz Heath
Mr Nick Vaughan
Mrs Kitty Hurley Mrs Tanya Martin – Dedicated Pupil Support
Groundsman
Mrs Sarah Palmer
Mr Andy Callow
Vigornian 2024/25 • 151
2025 Leavers Destinations as known in December 2025 Allardice, William Falmouth University
Game Development: Art
Irwin, Finlay
University of Reading
Commercial Aviation
Mason, William
University of Nottingham
History
Real Estate Finance
Nosworthy, Rebecca University of Nottingham
Ancient History
Marine Technology
Powell, Oliver
University of Bristol Accounting and Management
Accounting and Finance
Quinn, Arthur Management
Oxford Brookes University
Shepherd, Rose
University of Liverpool
Biological Sciences
Sheppard, Charles University of Sheffield
Architecture
Austin, Jude
British Airways
Barnett, Jack
University of Reading
Blasdale, Isaac
University of Plymouth
Chapman, Hugo
University of Bath
Crosby, Maxwell Swansea University
International Relations with a year in industry
Hingley, Dash
Gap year
Pritchard, Anna
Gap year
labouring apprenticeship
Ward, Joseph
Taylor-Edwards, Samuel University of Warwick
History
Wilkinson, Alfie
University of Reading
Willetts, Jamie
Aberystwyth University
Financial Mathematics
Real Estate
Willetts, Max
Aberystwyth University
History
Bowen, Hannah
University of Birmingham
Psychology
Collins, Ruby Nottingham Trent University Costello, Kiri University of Manchester Cox, George
Sport and Exercise Science
Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology
Nottingham Trent University
Edwards, Sam University of Nottingham
History Architecture and Environmental Design
Herbert, Hollie
University of Exeter
Psychology
Hickling, Polly
Durham University
English Literature
Lotter, Mischa
University of Birmingham
Biomedical Science
Ready, Taylor
Gap year
Richards, Tallulah Study Drama Town, Imogen
University of Manchester
Neuroscience
Twiehaus, Lukas
Gap year
Bayliss, Matilda
University of Birmingham
History of Art
Benvie, Bea Cartwright, Eleanor Lancaster University
Physics with Astrophysics
Dalton, Matthew
University of Southampton
Economics
Dykes, Eric
University of Cambridge
Linguistics
Harris, Esme
University of Manchester
History
Newman, Jessica
University of Leeds
History of Art
Nosworthy, Ellie
University of Exeter
Marketing and Management
Pritchard, Lucy University of Exeter Accounting and Business with Industrial Experience Roberts, Sofia Roberts, Edmund
University of Birmingham
Medicine
Simpson, Joe Stone, Joseph University of Leeds
Modern Languages and Business
Real Estate
Business and
University of Manchester Planning and Real Estate
Yip, Ollie Durham University Business and Management with Study Abroad Capell, James
University of Cambridge
Engineering
Cook, Matilda University of Bath Sport Management and Coaching with professional placement D’Auncey, Anabel Herbert, Benjamin University of Nottingham Kenrick, William Pitty, Nathan
Gap year Durham University
Venables, Amelia
University of Nottingham
Yates, Connor
Durham University
Civil Engineering
Religion, Society and Culture Economics Computer Science
Lucas, Catrin University of Worcester
Physical Education and Sports Coaching
Catchpowle, Liverpool John Moores University Samuel
Product Design Engineering
Colwell, Holly
University of Bristol
Colwell, Ruby
University of Nottingham
English and Classical Studies Chemistry
Evans, Martha
University of Cambridge
Engineering
Kavanagh, Isabelle University of Bristol
History
Kilbey, Charlotte
University of Birmingham
Physiotherapy
Mason, Zach
University of Liverpool
Architecture
Murray, Joseph Gap Year
Modern Languages and History, University of Birmingham
Parker-Byatt, Oscar University of Exeter
Theology and Religion
Ruff, Mason Watson, Thomas
Newcastle University
Mechanical Engineering
Bell, Lola
University of St Andrews
Caskie, Samuel
Durham University
Classics Mathematics
Diaz, Abbie
Nottingham Trent University Occupational Therapy
Dowty, Jack
University of Nottingham
Edwards, Michael University of Nottingham Frost, Eva
University of Liverpool
Graham, Molly Cardiff University Harris, Freya
Architecture Industrial Economics Law with a Year Abroad
Psychology with Professional Placement
University of Nottingham
Classics and English
Ibrar, Mohammed
Tariq, Mateen
Apprenticship
Andrews, Emily
London School of Economics and Political Science, University of London
Politics and International Relations
Mico, Lilia University of Birmingham Modern Languages and English Literature
Brown, Sonny
University of Liverpool
Biomedical Sciences
Forrester, Felix
University of Liverpool
Business Economics
Nelson, Ptolemy Liverpool John Moores University Accounting and Finance
Forrester, Posie University of Liverpool Communication and Media with French
Kear- Wood, Lauren
Pinner, Todd Reuben, Phoebe
University of Birmingham
Hatfield-Evans, Flynn
Shotton, Natalie
Cardiff University
Hira, Edward John University of Leeds
Sweeney, Megan University of Bristol Psychology in Education with Study Abroad
Product Design
Ingles, Ruby Cardiff Metropolitan University Sport Performance Analysis
152 • Vigornian 2024/25
Thrush, Genevieve University of Exeter Tucker, William
Durham University
Human Sciences Medicine
Business Economics Chemistry
Walker, Charles
University of Reading
Real Estate
Downing, Harry University of Southampton Earp, Grace
Swansea University
Franks, Matthew
University of Nottingham
Business Entrepreneurship with Placement Year Economics and Finance Physics
Hatcher Wilkins, Jemima University of Exeter History Heppenstall, Elliot Oxford Brookes University Heron, Tom
Hereford College of Art
Business and Management Art and Design
King, Benedict University of Exeter
Modern Languages with International Placement
Lavarack, Joshua
Imperial College London
Mechanical Engineering
Lee, James
Gap year
Lloyd-Adams, Josie University of Liverpool Marlow, David
Worcester Cathedral
Meredith, Lara
University of Bath
Chemistry Choral Scholar
Waters, Harry Oxford Brookes University
Sport and Exercise Science
Baird, Elliott Bannister, Joseph Leeds Beckett University Dobson, Millie Rose The University of Edinburgh
Business Management with Marketing Chemistry
Fleming, Will
University of Bath
Civil Engineering
Gamble, Abigail
Nottingham Trent University Professional Policing
Harle, Ellie Kenny, Annabelle
Oxford Brookes University
Marskell, Benjamin Cardiff University
Criminology and Law
Accounting and Finance with a Professional Placement Year
Scott, Heydon Smithson, Amy Durham University
Ancient History and Archaeology
Swarbrick, Ben
Quantity Surveying
University of Reading
Economics and Mathematics
Sayani, Jasmine University of Exeter Art History and Visual Culture with Study Abroad
Vigornian 2024/25 • 153
Upper Sixth Class of 2025
154 • Vigornian 2024/25