King's Association Newsletter Spring / Summer 2024

King’s Association Newsletter

Spring / Summer 2024

As we reflect on this year in life at the school, I continue to feel extraordinarily privileged to be part of such a strong community. The commitment of our staff, parents, pupils and alumni is a special thing and gives us the opportunity to be at the forefront in offering our pupils a tremendous educational experience, as well as the very best possible preparation for their lives in the world beyond school.

Last month we celebrated our pupils’ outstanding achievements as they received record breaking GCSE and IGCSE exam results. An astounding 90.7% of all exam results for our upper fifth pupils have been graded 9/8 (A* equivalent) and over twothirds, 67.1%, achieved the top grade 9. These successes follow the school’s fantastic sixth form results this summer, where 87% of all results were graded A*/A or the IB equivalent and one of our pupils achieved the highest mark in the country in History A level. 91% of our pupils have secured a place at their first-choice university. 39 will head to Oxford and Cambridge, and of this number a record five pupils are going to Cambridge University to read Maths. Our pupils’ depth of academic engagement, their commitment and positive spirit underpin those excellent outcomes: it is particularly good to see that

these are year groups which have engaged so actively and positively in the fullness of school life, representing the school at national and international level in many areas beyond the classroom, from sport to chess, space design to drama, as well as making an important contribution to the culture and community of the school from pupil voice and pupil leadership, to inclusion and sustainability.

Of the many other developments this year, I am particularly excited about the launch this summer of the King’s Business School. This five-day programme featured leading entrepreneurs alongside contributions from experts at UCL and LSE each focusing on a different aspect of entrepreneurship and innovation. The programme is open to pupils who have just completed their upper fifth or lower sixth at King’s, and from schools within the Wimbledon Partnership.

It is always a pleasure to hear how our alumni are flourishing in their post-King’s journeys, and I look forward to connecting with more alumni at this year’s annual reunion, welcoming year groups back to celebrate milestone years. Over 70 alumni from the Class of 2017 returned to King’s for their “Life at 25” reunion, and we welcomed over 130 alumni from the 1970s and those graduating between 1964 and 2014, for their reunion in June. It was a joy to see old friendships rekindled, former staff reuniting with former pupils, and new connections formed between alumni as everyone shared their experiences since their time at King’s.

Our parents’ association, the Friends of King’s, has been instrumental in fundraising for our partnerships and bursary programmes this year, as well as providing many opportunities to celebrate our community. Events like the Christmas Fair, Fireworks Night, Family Fun Day, Quiz Night, Careers Fair and the Summer Ball draw people from far and wide. It is heart-warming to see the commitment of our volunteers, who tirelessly give up their time for these events and other school activities, and by so doing enrich the education of our pupils and foster the powerful sense of community

which is so important at King’s.

I am also grateful to the King’s Association for bringing us the Enlightening Minds lecture series, introduced this year to nurture and ignite intellectual curiosity across the entire King’s community – pupils, parents, alumni, staff and partner schools. In the past year, we have had a talk on the path to net zero from King’s parent Mark Melford, an insightful exploration of liberty in the modern world from the perspective of the 14th amendment to the US Constitution from Professor Alexander Türk, an impassioned speech about sustainability, the future of our oceans, and the impact each of us can make from Professor Rachel Mills, and finally, an enlightening presentation that intertwined elements of fairy tales to offer a fresh perspective on cyber threats. Look out for upcoming talks later this year including our accredited TEDx event on 8th October, and as part of our commitment to offering enriching opportunities for our growing international alumni community, we are delighted to provide recordings of all those lectures.

We have a packed schedule of activities planned for our alumni, pupils and staff for the autumn term. Our archivist, Dr Lucy Inglis, will offer another popular “Tours and Tea” session at the end of September, providing a detailed history of the school and a chance to connect with fellow alumni; our Law Society Q&A panel event in September will bring tother five alumni and parents to provide invaluable insights on all aspects of the industry and pathways to a career in the Law; and the Friends of King’s Careers Fair in November offers excellent opportunities for pupils to explore different career paths and interact with professionals.

I hope that you enjoy reading about life at the school, and very much hope to see you at one of our events in the coming months. Thank you for being part of our community!

With best wishes,

Dr Anne Cotton Head, King’s College School, Wimbledon

Alumni Highlights

KCS OLD BOYS VETERAN CUP FINAL

The KCS Old Boys Vets rounded off a successful few seasons by qualifying for the final of the Derrick Moore Vets’ Cup for the first time.

Following two successive semi-final appearances, the KCS Old Boys Vets secured their first piece of silverware in 2022/23 when winning the plate competition. After being knocked-out of the cup by eventual winners Old Etonians in controversial style, KCS progressed to the final of the plate where they defeated Old Salopians 4-2 thanks to two goals in the final 15 minutes from Dan Phipps (OK 2001).

This time around, KCS hammered Old Harrovians 8-1 in round one before edging a tight game with Old Malvernians 2-1 in the quarter-finals. This set up a rematch with Old Etonians in which KCS secured a 3-1 victory

following a physical encounter that was played in very wet conditions at Kingsway.

The final was played at Merchant Taylors’ School on the 28th April, against the Old Brentwoodians, and sadly the game ended in a 1-0 defeat with a goal in the final minute.

A huge congratulations to the Vets team for reaching the final and ending up as eventual runners-up.

The Derrick Moore Veterans Cup is an extension of the Arthurian League, in which all teams have to field players who are genuine alumni of their school. The KCS side is comprised of leavers from a number of different year groups between 1999-2005.

Lauren’s dedication and contributions have earned her national and international recognition, including the PsychStar Award from the Royal College of Psychiatrists, the Laidlaw Foundation Leadership and Research Scholarship, and Dubai’s Health 2.0 Young Leadership Award. She has also been named

CHARLES MCDOUGALL (OK 1977)

Inspired by Norman Isaacs and Johnny Evans during the annual KCS school play, award-winning director Charles McDougall developed a passion for drama and was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to the University of Southern California Film School and later attended the National Film and Television School. Charles has directed for many years and created works such as Between the Lines, Cracker, and the multiaward-winning Hillsborough drama about the tragedy he witnessed. His more recent productions include Conrad’s The Secret Agent, Julia for HBO Max, and Three Little Birds.

no. 6 in Powerlist’s Future Leaders magazine. Looking ahead, Lauren is excited to graduate as a doctor and hopes to continue focusing on patient advocacy, ethical leadership, and improving health outcomes for vulnerable populations.

PHOTOGRAPHER: GEORGE ROBERTS

PHOTO

KHALID ABDALLA (OK 1999)

Khalid is a well-known actor and activist, recognised for his role as Dodi Al Fayed in The Crown, and is currently starring in Mnemonic at The National Theatre, which was conceived by Simon McBurney as a co-production with

Complicité. Khalid is also one of the founding members of the Mosireen Collective in Cairo, a group of revolutionary filmmakers and activists dedicated to supporting citizen media across Egypt.

ARTHUR FERY (OK 2020)

Arthur is an emerging talent in the world of tennis, and most recently played against Medvedev at Wimbledon. Arthur has a new career-high ranking at world No. 243 and made the final at the Mouilleron le Captif Challenger, the quarter-final finish at the Brest Challenger and has defeated former top 1-star David Goffin. We wish Arthur the very best with his career.

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TOM BASDEN (OK 1999)

Tom is an award-winning English actor, writer and comedian, who is best known for cocreating and starring in Plebs, which won Best New Comedy at the British Comedy Awards 2013 and the Royal Television Society award for Best Scripted Comedy in 2014. Tom is also a member of sketch group Cowards. In February this year, the latest season of Tom’s Here We Go was released on BBC One and he is currently co-writing The Ballad of Wallis Island alongside Carey Mulligan and Tim Key,

Tom as our special guest prize giver. He gave a brilliant speech which was met with much laughter from the assembled community of pupils and teachers. The mix of humour and wisdom he employed ensured that the serious message he ended upon was received loud and clear. Tom advised pupils to pursue things that are really meaningful to them and which make “hours seem like minutes”. Some excellent and inspiring advice that really enhanced the optimistic and celebratory

HARRY RICHARDS (OK 2016)

Film maker and director Harry Richards (OK 2016), has been featured in a recent article in Variety Magazine that announces his short film, Contact Hours, starring Kris Hitchen (star of Ken Loach’s SORRY WE MISSED YOU) as lead. The film is now fully funded and shooting is currently taking place in Hertfordshire. Please be aware that this film engages with the challenging theme of student

suicide. If this subject material is particularly difficult for you, we would recommend that you seek appropriate support, via your GP or another medical expert if necessary. The following websites may be helpful: papyrusuk.org; samaritans.org; youngminds.org.uk; winstonswish.org.uk; thecalmzone.net

JOJO PHILIPS (OK 2016)

Budding entrepreneur Jojo Philips is at the forefront of a fashion revolution with her app, SOJO, which uses technology to simplify the process of ordering and fulfilling clothing alterations and repairs. Aware that her generation is both leading the world’s sustainability agenda, whilst also firmly rooted in a culture of excess and disposability, SOJO aims to make it easier to maximise the longevity of our clothes. A recent exciting development is that SOJO has partnered with M&S and, from August, M&S customers can book a repair service through a new online hub – ‘M&S Fixed by SOJO.’ Many congratulations to Jojo and we look forward to witnessing her continued success!

JOE SALISBURY (OK 2010)

Joe is a prominent professional tennis player, who is a former world no. 1 in doubles. Joe is a six-time Grand Slam champion, having won the 2020 Australian Open and the 2021, 2022 and 2023 US Opens in men’s doubles with Rajeev Ram, as well as the 2021 French and US Opens in mixed doubles alongside Desirae Krawczyk. Joe has won 17 doubles titles on the ATP Tour, made his Davis Cup debut for Great Britain in 2021, and competed at the 2020 summer Olympics alongside Andy Murray.

Joe has had a notable run at Wimbledon this year. In men’s doubles, he and his partner Rajeev Ram advanced to the second round with a straight-set victory over Casper Ruud and William Blumberg, but lost to Andreas Mies and John Patrick-Smith in the second round. In mixed doubles, Joe teamed up with Heather Watson. They reached the second round after a hard-fought match against finalists Jan Zielinski and S-Wei Hsieh.

Joe also played in the men’s doubles at the Paris Olympics with Neal Skupski against Czech pair Tomas Machac and Adam Pavlasek, Skupski and Salisbury took the first set before bowing out 4-6 6-3 (10-8).

In The Spotlight With…

GEORGE HINTZEN (OK 2004)

George Hintzen has had an eventful trajectory since leaving King’s in 2004.

His formative years at King’s nurtured his passion for design, while the art department provided a canvas for his ideas beyond the curriculum. Inspired by the well-equipped studios, George chose architecture, attracted by the blend of creativity and vocational rigor.

In his current role at Bloom Developments, he analyses sites, makes strategic decisions, and redefines urban warehouses. He also had an interesting time on BBC’s The Dragon’s Den, which he details in his interview with us below.

What are some of your fondest memories from your time at King’s?

I had a great time with the Art department, as that was a chance to do something not driven by a curriculum and allowed some space to come up with your own ideas. Playing hockey and games in general was great.

How did your education at King’s influence your career path?

I always liked spending time in the Art and Design & Technology studios, which were well- equipped and supportive. King’s is very academic though, so I thought I could find a middle ground in architecture, which combines a really broad range of things, from design, anthropology, legal, project management, and construction contracts, and aligning a huge range of stakeholders.

What inspired you to pursue a career in architecture after leaving King’s?

Initially I wanted to do something in design and art, and whereas the facilities at King’s are great, the career paths in those fields are a little less vocational, so I chose architecture,

Can you share some challenges you faced during your training as an architect and how you overcame them?

Architecture is a long, seven-year course, and requires a constant output of various drawings, digital models, physical models, technical drawings, and presentations. It’s a long course, which can be frustrating when everyone is starting to get great jobs, so be prepared for starting to earn a bit later. When you’re through it, you are very comprehensively trained across a range of skills though, and it’s a great feeling to get chartered at the end of it.

Could you describe a typical day in your role at Bloom Developments?

In my role on the acquisition side of Bloom, I spend a lot of time calling, having coffees

as I could be creative whist still having a vocational, chartered career path.

with, and emailing agents about new sites that are coming to market. I’ll get a heads upsometimes just an address, and sometimes a full brochure - and then carry out financial and other analysis on the land or buildings and try to form an optimal business plan around it. For example, would it be better to demolish the existing buildings - they may be too old, or small - or would it be better to retain the existing buildings, and refurbish them, to bring them up to date.

What are some of the most exciting projects you’ve worked on at Bloom Development?

We’ve been lucky enough to have a very strong joint venture partner in TPG Angelo Gordon, for our seed portfolio. Bloom - an urban warehouse developer and manager - caught their eye, as the founding partners’ initial thesis was urban warehouses. In response to faster delivery expectations by consumers, driven by e-commerce, catalysed by the pandemic, and a huge reduction in inner city industrial space in favour of residential development, modern, urban warehouses are rare and sought after by occupiers like DPS, Amazon, and Screwfix. Hence we’re developing a new building typology - urban warehouses - as traditionally they tend to be outside TfL zones 1-3, so each site has unique constraints, and has to work alongside sensitive uses like residential. So each asset we’ve developed has been tricky, and each one has been a thrill to get consented and built.

How did you get the opportunity to feature on Dragons’ Den, and what was that experience like?

Prior to Bloom I founded and operated TOAD.ai (The Outdoor Advertising Directory), which maps out demographic data, and overlays it with outdoor advertising - billboards, bus stops, phone boxes - which allows media buyers to pick advertising screens that will be the most effective to reach their target audience. One evening I googled ‘BBC Dragons’ Den’ and filled out

the application form on their website. After a couple of months, and a lot of phone calls, I went for a practice filming session at the BBC in White City, and then off to the studios in Manchester for the main event. My CTO didn’t fancy it, so I went alone. I practiced the pitch, numbers, and watched a lot of vintage DD to get ready. I was in front of the dragons for about an hour and a half, and had some really positive conversations, but on TV it’s cut down to about 8 minutes of the cringiest bits, which is fun.

Were you successful on the Dragons’ Den and what did you learn from the whole process?

Yes, I was successful, but it was pretty nervy. My priority was to come away from the show not getting into an awkward tussle with the dragons, but the investment was always a bonus, and a great result! Tej Lalvani who runs Vitabiotics came in with a £100,000 offer, which is a decent sum for the den. They use a lot of Outdoor Advertising - you may have seen their supplement ads on the London Underground - so he was interested in ways to optimise their advertising spend. On the filming day there was a bunch of crazy entrepreneurs bouncing off the walls in the green room, disappearing one by one, until it was my turn to face the dragons. It was an early 5am start, and required extended focus, as you were conscious that you were being filmed all the way. Same thing for the dragons though, as they go through the process multiple times a day.

What advice would you give to current King’s students interested in architecture or investment?

Architecture is a long course, and quite design focused. A lot of universities insist on some form of numeracy, like Physics or Maths A levels, but it’s very light, in practice. The structural and mechanical engineers do a lot of the technical work. Real estate is more social, numerical, and business-focused, so perhaps that would be a route for people

who want something in finance, but perhaps more tangible and a little less desk time.

How do you stay updated with the latest trends and developments in your industry?

The real estate industry is very social, and we’re encouraged to network where possible, which creates a great culture. In between financial models, emails, and other desktop work, we go to a lot of coffees and lunches in the West End. This could be a chat with potential joint venture partners, operating partners and developers, as well as the commercial agents that send us opportunities. These are a great way to get up-to-date information, in terms of what people are investing in, and what specific opportunities and sectors they’re looking at investing in, and upcoming asset sales. There’s also a bunch of great industry newsletters by publishers like Property Week, and agencies like Savills, JLL and DTRE have great free newsletters and alerts that you can sign up to.

Can you share any significant lessons you’ve learned from your career journey so far?

I’ve moved across architecture, proptech, and real estate investment, which isn’t the most conventional route, but they have informed each other, and are all connected to the built environment. For example, my architecture

and proptech experiences have been very useful to create initial designs for prospective sites we’re looking at, and also appraise good locations based on transport connections, local market dynamics, and demographics. Whilst it can make a lot of sense to stay on a single path, if you’re considering transitioning, perhaps consider how you can build on your existing skills and offer this as a unique insight and ability in a new line of work.

You recently came to your reunion at King’s - what was it like to meet up with your old classmates ten years later?

It was great to see everyone again, and great that their characters are largely the same, and we were able to get on well even though some of us hadn’t seen each other for a longer amount of time. Also, everyone is up to such a wide range of things from dentistry, medicine, real estate and finance.

What advice would you offer to alumni looking to give back or stay connected with King’s?

The reunion is a great way to get everyone together. The earlier the better, as people will start to have kids and drift abroad. The mail and email newsletters are also a great way to stay up to date.

Archive Highlights

THE CELLARS IN THE STRAND

King’s was founded as part of King’s College London in 1829. When the new institution opened in 1831 the college, or ‘Higher Department’, took the ground and upper floors, whilst the school, or ‘Lower Department’, was down below.

Moving from the school to the college at the age of 16 was referred to as ‘going up’, and the boys literally progressed from the dark, damp basement to the airy, spacious classrooms above. Before long, the school earned the unassuming nickname of the ‘Cellars in The Strand’. Despite the less-than-ideal conditions, the school was based there for 66 years before it moved to Wimbledon in 1897.

‘I was a little disconcerted to find that our School was to be downstairs on the basement storey, in the kitchen as some said, or, according to others, in the cellar. … We found that we had no reason to complain of our quarters. Our rooms were large and high; and masters had been provided for us, of whom any, even the old, schools might be proud.’ (F.J. Manning, pupil at

the school from 1831 to 1836)

The subterranean school was accessed by wide stone steps which led down to a long, dark passage, some 10 feet wide, that ran the 300-foot length of the building. At the bottom of the steps there was an iron gate, the keys for which were held by the porter. The gate was locked after the pupils arrived and was not opened again until the end of the school day which meant a pupil could not leave unless he was able to present the porter with an exeat from a master giving permission to leave.

There were classrooms running off each side of the passage. Steps at the end led upstairs to the Chapel where a service was held at 9.30am each morning. All the classrooms were below street level, and

The rear of South Hayes, 1897

An etching of King’s College London (around 1833)

several had flagstone floors which soon began to create a permanently dank atmosphere. There was also an issue with drains. The Thames was, at that time, a sewer for over a million Londoners, and the resulting smell permeated the classrooms. The additional stench from the nearby dissecting room of the college’s medical department was sometimes so bad that the boys were forced to leave their classrooms. By 1840, the headmaster, Dr Major, was forced to write to the College Council demanding that something be done to improve the situation.

Although the steep bank from the Thames Embankment up to the Strand meant that some classrooms had windows which afforded natural light, they looked out over a dismal paved yard, described by Sabine Baring-Gould (OK 1846) as a place ‘in which not a blade of grass showed, and not a leaf quivered in the air’. The internal passage was always dark and was lit by gas jets throughout the autumn and winter months. When there was a London smog it became darker still, and wax candles would also be used in classrooms–one candle was shared between two boys and would be stuck onto the desk with melted wax.

‘When my father decided to send me there, a friend said “so you are going to study in the cellars of Somerset House?” and he wasn’t far wrong; for our classrooms were

mostly underground, and our playground a walled-in pit.’ (L. H. Kirkness, a pupil at King’s from 1896 to 1901)

Breaktime was fifteen minutes in the morning and thirty minutes at lunchtime, and the boys could go out into the small, gravelled yard (likened to a prison yard by some pupils) where they amused themselves by indiscriminately kicking around a piece of wood or loose stones. As a consequence, the school regularly received bills for broken windows from local businesses in Strand Lane, and eventually the playground was paved over.

At breaktime, a local baker and confectioner came in to sell buns and jam tarts from a counter set up in the corridor. The baker reappeared at one o’clock with a greater assortment of hot pastries such as meat pies for lunch. Alternatively, the boys could have a meal in the large dining room upstairs which overlooked the river and where beer was served for a penny a glass! On one occasion though, the entire roof of the dining hall collapsed into the kitchen. This is likely to have been caused by the nearby excavation work for the construction of Victoria Embankment–luckily, it happened two hours before lunchtime when the dining room was empty, and no one was injured.

School finished at 3pm each day except

Wednesday when it finished at 1pm and Saturday when it finished at 12 noon. After school the boys would go to Sainsbury’s, a chemist close to school for iced soda drinks, for a stroll in Covent Garden or to Soho to learn to ride bicycles (36-inch bone shakers became fashionable in 1868 and many boys went to rooms in Soho where they could take lessons).

A great strength of the school was its proximity to the college. From its inception, pupils had been given the option to attend lectures in science given by the professorial staff of King’s College (an additional fee was charged). In 1842, following the success of these early lectures they became a compulsory part of the curriculum at no extra fee. By taking advantage of the relationship with the college, the school became one of the first in the country to offer an education in these subjects. One of the ambitions of this advanced curriculum was to prepare some pupils for Oxford and Cambridge (the college, at that time, did not confer degrees). In this respect, the school did exceptionally well: in 1882, King’s came second only to Eton in the Oxford and Cambridge Board Examinations.

The academic reputation of the school helped to bolster pupil numbers which, under the second headmaster, Dr Maclear, rose to

A watercolour by a King’s pupil showing the gate in the basement (the superscription likens it to Dante’s Inferno ‘Lasciate ogni speranza’ transl: Abandon hope all who enter here)

over 600 pupils. In response, the playground had to be converted into a gymnasium and four new classrooms were constructed. By the end of the 1880s, however, numbers at the school had fallen to just 251 boys (by the 1890s there were fewer still). There was a need for better facilities and outside space. Sufficient land to accommodate onsite playing fields was becoming an increasingly important feature for prospective pupils and their parents. As the railways expanded, making travel easier and more convenient, so too had the appetite of parents to send their children out of London to boarding schools set in acres of countryside. With falling pupil numbers, the search for a new location for the school began in earnest. A site on West Hill in Putney was being seriously considered by the College Council when a property called South Hayes, opposite Wimbledon Common, was found. The large Victorian house might have been unremarkable but the 6 acres of perfectly flat land with which it came was perfect. The new Wimbledon site would mean that King’s could compete once again with St Paul’s which had quadrupled its intake following the school’s relocation from the City of London to a large, semi- rural site in Hammersmith in 1884.

Once the decision to move to Wimbledon had been taken, matters moved quickly, and

the school was relocated during the Easter holidays in 1897 opening in Wimbledon for the summer term that May. Some of the existing pupils who lived in north or east London decided not to move with the school, but several local new boys took their places. At the time, Wimbledon was a rapidly growing town with its own rail links but, to make the journey to King’s even easier, an early school coach system was put in place with an omnibus drawn by two horses and driven by a coachman which ran from the station up to the school. At first the system operated on a pay-per-journey basis when the boys disembarked at school but, with too many boys jumping off early on the Ridgway to avoid payment, this was soon replaced by a termly fee of 10 shillings.

Following the school’s move, the basement in which it had been located for so long was taken over by the Strand School, where boys

TOURS AND TEA

aged between 10 and 16 could secure a ‘General Education suitable for commerce and the Civil Service.’ The Strand School no longer exists. Like King’s College School, it became independent of King’s College following the college’s incorporation into the University of London. In 1913 the Strand School moved close to Tulse Hill, operating as a boys’ grammar school until it closed in the late 1970s. Meanwhile, back in the basement at King’s College, in May 1952 molecular biologist Dr Rosalind Franklin and her PhD student Raymond Gosling took one of the most important photographs ever taken: ‘photo 51’. The image demonstrated the helical structure of DNA thus enabling James Watson and Francis Crick at the University of Cambridge to build the first correct model of the DNA molecule. Quite an impressive finale for the dark, smelly classrooms populated by the first King’s boys in the ‘Cellars in the Strand’!

On Tuesday 26th March we were delighted to welcome a mix of alumni, former parents and even a former member of staff back to school for a tour with Dr Lucy Inglis, School Archivist. Dr Inglis led the group around familiar school haunts, such as the Great Hall, as well as newer buildings such as the Music School and

Sports Centre. After the tour there was a chance to reminisce over refreshments and to look at a selection of documents from the school archive. If you would like to register your interest in joining our next tour on Tuesday 24th September, then please register here .

Development Highlights

ENLIGHTENING MINDS LECTURE SERIES ROUND-UP

Introduced this year, the Enlightening Minds lecture series aims to nurture and ignite intellectual curiosity across the entire King’s community, including students, parents, governors, alumni, teachers, and partner schools.These lectures feature knowledgeable

King’s parent Mark Melford, MD of Captive Strategic Leadership, who gave a personal perspective on climate change that rarely gets covered in the media with his talk, ‘How to Solve the Climate Crisis’. Examining fascinating innovations through different sectors and touching on the politics of climate issues among many other areas, Mark ultimately delivered a story of hope on what can be done to combat the climate crisis.

Professor Alexander H. Türk who presented ‘Redefining

members of the broader King’s community who share insights related to their field of research or subject expertise and are available to attend in-person on campus, as dial-in live, or via digital recording.

So far, we have been fortunate to welcome:

Liberty for the 21st Century: The US Supreme Court and the 14th Amendment’. Professor Türk, a legal luminary, is ViceDean (International) at the Dickson Poon School of Law, King’s College London. In this fascinating talk, Professor Türk discussed the seismic shift in the recent jurisprudence by the US Supreme Court in its interpretation of the rights that US citizens enjoy against the intervention of US states.

Professor Rachel Mills, Senior Vice President (Academic) at King’s College London, who delivered an impassioned speech on ‘The Future of our Oceans: Sustainable Seas’. This insightful talk showcased her passion for education and ocean literacy, and significantly advanced our understanding of the deepsea and ocean processes.

Professor Luca Viganò, Head of the Cybersecurity Group at King’s College London, delivered an imaginative talk using the intersection of fairy tales and cybersecurity to make this complex subject more accessible. His enlightening presentation, ‘Cybersecurely ever after: The cybersecurity of fairy tales’, delved into the intertwining elements of fairy tales to offer a fresh perspective on cyber threats.

We will be bringing more Enlightening Minds lectures to our community in the autumn term so stay tuned for more learning opportunities.

Sector Networking Series

SNS: BUSINESS AND TECHNOLOGY

Over 200 pupils, alumni, parents, and staff came to One Moorgate Place, London, for our Business and Technology Sector Networking Reception in January.

A thought-provoking panel discussion, titled: “Money, Machines, and Morality: Exploring Ethical AI in Finance”, saw sector experts share their valuable insights and opinions on the ethics, application, and governance of AI as related to the sector. The discussion also touched upon the essential skills and experience required for aspiring AI professionals, which was especially beneficial for the pupils and recent graduates in attendance.

The networking session that followed the discussion provided the perfect platform for guests to connect, discuss, and deepen their understanding of the panel’s insights – it was wonderful to see guests engaged in such animated and robust conversations.

SNS:

We were delighted to welcome over 50 pupils, alumni, parents, and staff to the Architecture and the Built Environment Sector Networking Reception, hosted by the London School of Architecture (LSA) at their new premises in Dalston.

The evening began with an engaging talk from Dr Neal Shasore (OK 2007), Chief Executive Officer and Head of School of the LSA, who spoke on the purpose and mission of the school, in particular access and outreach work, and topics ranging from inclusive procurement to promoting impactful social

value. Angie Jim Osman and Laurie Hallows from Allies and Morrison then reflected on some of their educational projects, including the design of the New Hall and classroom block here at King’s.

The evening culminated with James Pockson (OK 2007), Founder and Director of IDK, discussing the renovation of the LSA’s new premises, and a stimulating networking session. It was fantastic to see so many enthusiasts of the sector come together, and we would like to thank everyone involved for giving their time to deliver such an exciting evening.

SNS: HEALTHCARE

Dr Alexander Scott (OK 1998), Consultant in Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine at The James Cook University Hospital, came back to King’s in March as our guest speaker. Dr Scott gave an incredibly inspiring, moving, and insightful account of his experiences working in an Intensive Care Unit throughout

the pandemic, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of the medical professionals during the crisis.

A vibrant networking session followed the talk – it was wonderful to see guests connecting and sharing their experiences of the sector.

FELLOWSHIP DAY

We welcomed over 60 of the school’s most ardent supporters for Fellowship Day in April, when we showcased the three elements of our school crest, Mind, Spirit, and Heart, illustrating our commitment to educating the whole person and to preparing our young people for their futures.

pupils present fascinating research from their King’s Essay, discussing questions from “To what extent did ancient Sparta influence Nazi Germany?” to “Does voyeurism in film restrict meaningful narratives?” Our Heart session saw pupils performing excerpts from this year’s truly breath-taking senior school production of Billy Elliot. Our Spirit session featured presentations by the Girls’ Ambassadors and

LIFE AT 25 REUNION

In May, we had the pleasure of hosting our inaugural Life at 25 Reunion. It was wonderful to bring together over 70 alumni from the Class of 2017, as well as former staff, and welcome them back to school. The atmosphere was filled with nostalgia as former classmates and teachers reunited over drinks and a barbeque. It was a joy to see old friendships rekindled and new ones formed as everyone shared what they had been up to since their time at King’s. Many also took the opportunity to

Middle School Peer Mentors, where guests had the opportunity to consider activities through which our pupils might develop their

explore the campus to see what has (and has

We were delighted to be joined by our Head, Dr Anne Cotton, and Alexander Malmaeus, Chairman of the Old King’s Club. Both extended a warm welcome to our guests and offered our alumni valuable insights on how the school can continue to support them as they navigate the early stages of their

On Saturday 15th June, the school was delighted to welcome back alumni from the Class of 1964 through to the Class of 2014 for the Old King’s Reunion. We were thrilled that over 130 alumni, as well as both current and former staff were able to make the journey

Alexander Malmaeus, Chairman of the Old King’s Club, four fantastic piano performances by pupils in the senior school and a guided tour of the school by Dr Lucy Inglis, School Archivist. It was very special to see guests rekindle old friendships and forge new ones, and to hear fond memories, anecdotes, and stories of school life being shared – a truly

BENEFACTORS’ GARDEN PARTY

In June, we held the Benefactors’ Garden Party, a great occasion to express gratitude to our community members who have generously given up their time to support the school and provide vital contributions towards initiatives such as our bursary programme.

This support has significantly enhanced the opportunities available to our students and our whole community. Thank you to all those who attended and who have contributed in a myriad of important ways to King’s.

Your Support Matters

The philanthropy of our parents, alumni and other supporters plays a vital role in shaping the future of our school, and in transforming the lives of many children. Through these generous contributions, we are able to provide bursaries that open doors

for deserving students who would otherwise be denied access to a King’s education. These bursaries empower young minds, nurturing their potential and enabling them to thrive. Together, we are building a legacy of opportunity and hope.

So far this fiscal year, 166 donors have given £520,496.75 to the school to support the following areas:

Renewal Projects

£825.00

Greatest Need

£15,341.34

Entrepreneurship

£20,280.00

Sports

£32,918.00

Bursaries

£451,132.41

This enables us to realise our commitment to:

• extending the transformational power of education to talented young people who would not otherwise have had the opportunity to join King’s.

• providing an outstanding environment in which to learn.

• offering wide-ranging music and sport programmes to inspire pupils to acquire passions that they can take with them into the future.

Thank you on behalf of the 73 pupils who would not be attending King’s today without your support. Bursaries transform lives, opening doors that would otherwise remain closed. Our bursary programme boasts a rich history spanning over 45 years, with our community rallying to raise over £8 million to support more than 130 pupils through

bursaries. These students have gone on to achieve remarkable things in their academic pursuits and professional careers, and make a great contribution to UK life and the economy. Together, we can be catalysts for change, providing young people from all backgrounds with the opportunity to make their mark on the world.

Thank you for your ongoing support.

Antony Berry Director of Development

The Friends of King’s

Established in 1978, the Friends is King’s parents’ association which aims to enrich the education of our pupils and foster a strong sense of community. The Friends fundraise for the school, raising money for our bursary programme and our partnership and outreach programme. Highlights of the great work carried out by the Friends includes:

SUMMER BALL

This year’s Summer Soirée invited guests to partake in a glamorous night of dinner, music and dancing, whilst also raising funds for our bursary programme and our partnership and outreach programme. We were delighted to welcome 516 guests to the Intercontinental Hotel in Mayfair for a champagne reception followed by dinner. Our Master of Ceremonies and fellow parent, Angellica Bell, presided over a silent auction and pledge, and a record £110,000 was raised which will fund a pupil through their sixth form education at King’s, as well as continuing to support the Partnerships and Outreach programme and the Friends school enrichment projects.

SECOND-HAND UNIFORM SALE

The second-hand uniform sale offers a muchappreciated service to the King’s community: affordable, sustainable uniforms. All proceeds raised go directly to our bursaries fund, allowing a wider demographic of pupils to benefit from a King’s education. In the academic year 2023-24, over 400 hours of

volunteering from 80 volunteers have taken place, and this year, their efforts raised an incredible £27,000 for bursaries. A big shout out to Lucie Favre and her committee for their dedicated work.

FAMILY FUN DAY

This year’s multi-sports event was great fun, with a mix of sports and skills for all abilities. Participants also had the opportunity to visit various food and drink stalls whilst enjoying the sunshine.

CAREERS FAIR

The fair is a valuable opportunity for upper fifth and lower sixth pupils to explore different career paths and interact with industry professionals from a variety of industries from management to medicine, and architecture to advertising. This highlights opportunities beyond academics and provides insights to the pupils beyond King’s.

King’s LGBT+ Alumni Network

Established in 2021, the network is run by volunteers who work with the Equality, Diversity, and Inclusivity mentor for LGBT+ in the school. The main aim is to provide a social and support network for LGBT+ alumni and their allies, and to support the school in the coming years, helping it to maintain an inclusive culture at King’s so that current pupils feel they belong. Membership

is open to all alumni who wish to support the network’s aims – if you are interested in joining or would like further information, please contact the King’s LGBT+ Alumni Network: development@kcs.org.uk

We have recently appointed a new Global Chair for the LGBT+ group, James Smith, and will be in touch via our eBulletins about upcoming events

The Law Society

Established in 2012, the Law Society aims to provide support and mentoring for King’spupils interested in pursuing a career in law, and to facilitate links between members of the King’s community working in law. The society provides a regular cycle of events and will host the Law Q&A Panel event on Thursday 26th September. You can register your attendance here

Partnerships round-up

COMMITMENT TO THE WIDER COMMUNITY

King’s extensive partnerships and outreach programme reflects a strong belief in the benefit of educational partnerships and a permanent commitment to sharing our resources with the local community. A unique feature of King’s, it fosters an ethos of social awareness and respect for difference. The programme has three main strands:

• the co-ordination of the Wimbledon independent state-schools partnership, consisting of King’s and nine maintained secondary schools and sixth forms

• a wide range of arrangements with over 20 other maintained secondary, primary, special schools and sixth forms which offer mentoring opportunities for our pupils

• An outreach programme which includes gardening, work in libraries and a weekly tea for the elderly.

Many members of the school contribute to the programme, from governors to almost 440 King’s pupils who engage in work in the community every week. It is run by the Director of Partnerships and Outreach, with the support of one deputy director, two assistant directors and over 50 members of staff. The unique depth and quality of our involvement with local educational institutions, reinforced by the engagement of staff and pupils, has provoked interest from the press and from both local and national government.

SPRING TERM PARTNERSHIPS

Over 400 King’s pupils participated in over 50 projects on Friday afternoons this term. One project, Jazz Combo, involved Merton Abbey primary school pupils for a jazz concert at King’s theatre, attended by the Mayor of Merton, a former professional jazz singer, who performed with the King’s band.

King’s L6th pupils continue to work closely with pupils from Harris Academy Wimbledon in leading six community projects together. The impact of partnership work is being measured throughout the year through a variety of focus groups and questionnaires. One Harris pupil said that the best thing about leading a partnership project is, ‘being able to challenge the children with the lessons and make them feel like they have learnt something helpful for them in the

future’. The wide range of projects enable all pupils to develop a range of transferable skills in order to prepare them for later life. Harris and King’s pupils are also working closely on university preparations by attending jointly run academic enrichment sessions.

Ten pupils attended an architecture networking event and over 150 Year 11 pupils joined GCSE reinforcement sessions in various subjects led by King’s staff in Maths, English, French, Spanish, German, Biology, Physics and Chemistry.

Senior Aspiration pupils, including 300 in receipt of pupil premium, attended events to expand their curriculum. Year 9 saw Romeo and Juliet at The Globe Theatre,Year 10 visited King’s College London for a taster lecture on International Relations to learn more about university learning and Year 11 explored postschool pathways. Students were inspired by performances and workshops, learning the importance of non-verbal communication in acting. The students were inspired by the experience, with many commenting that they had learned that communication could take place without dialogue.

At term’s end, over 150 pupils from eight partnership schools and King’s performed The Time Machine in the Collyer Hall Theatre with original music and a custom set.

SUMMER TERM SIXTH FORM PARTNERSHIPS WITH HARRIS ACADEMY WIMBLEDON (HAWI)

The first year of the HAWI sixth form partnership has been a huge success. 35 HAWI pupils jointly led a series of Friday afternoon community projects with King’s pupils throughout the year. This gave the pupils the opportunity to learn from each other whilst sharing their talents with younger pupils from a variety of local schools. Furthermore, King’s staff subject co-ordinators have been liaising closely with their respective corresponding departments at HAWI to support the first year of A Level teaching at the school. The Careers department has been giving presentations to staff and parents of students at HAWI to support them in their first round of UCAS applications. HAWI pupils took part in a series of workshops and lectures as part of King’s UCAS week at the end of June. The partnership has enabled pupils from both schools to share their experiences and learn together.

Friday afternoon community projects continued for the first half of the term. A highlight was the interactive performance for 150 pupils from three primary schools led by the Friday Afternoon Blues project with the Blues and Roots ensemble, funded by the Friends of King’s. The pupils were introduced to each instrument, were taught a song, and took part in rhythm games.

30 Year 10 students who would be firstgeneration university scholars from four partnership schools attended a debating workshop at King’s in April. They asked Stephen Hammond about his role as an MP, learned about parliamentary debating, and took part in their own debate. They joined a larger group from two more schools to visit the Houses of Parliament in June. One student said, ‘The Year 12s from King’s were amazing. They really made it interesting,’ while another added, ‘I loved working with other schools, arguing points with my friends, and then laughing afterwards.’

40 Year 10 Senior Aspirations pupils from four local secondary schools attended physics and chemistry workshops in May. The stations included practical experiments like fire writing, acids and bases tests, flame tests, and spaghetti and marshmallow towers. Our sixth form students planned sessions with demonstrations, easy explanations, and engaging tasks to inspire visiting pupils to pursue sciences. Feedback was immensely positive, with comments like “science is actually fun” and “fire is awesome sometimes.” It was an immense success.

60 Year 9 Senior Aspirations pupils attended workshops on imagineering based on Disney.Pixar non-linear storytelling. This workshop condensed the usual Imagineering project into an afternoon session. Pupils from Ursuline High School, King’s, and Robin Hood Primary collaborated to create and design their own theme park attraction, presenting storyboards to the group. Students found storyboarding the best thing about the

workshops and described it as engaging. At the end, pupils felt more confident and inspired, discovering that imagineering is a crucial way to develop stories and ideas.

King’s pupils planned and led a range of workshops in psychology, philosophy, engineering, economics, computing and Greek for Year 9 and 10 partnership pupils as a further part of the Senior Aspirations project towards the end of the summer term.

A growing number of King’s students are being inspired to create their own community initiatives. On the final day of the spring term, two King’s students delivered talks about the Financial Times to Lower Sixth students at Harris Academy Wimbledon.

Desmond Zee (L6) visited two primary schools to deliver his Design Thinking workshop, guiding students through five key steps in the design process and applying it to worked examples. The workshop built skills in critical thinking and creative ideation, helping students understand how design can impact the world and help others.

The summer term ended with the annual Open Doors Project, involving 180 pupils from four primary schools led by 60 student leaders from King’s and three partner secondary schools. This week-long event had two strands: sports leading to a tournament and creative arts culminating in a performance in the Collyer Hall Theatre for parents. We were delighted to welcome the Mayor of Merton to the final events.

Drama Highlights

LOWER SCHOOL PRODUCTION: TREASURE ISLAND

The lower school company of Treasure Island captivated audiences on a thrilling adventure. Comprising 38 performers and a team of eight student technicians, the team went above and beyond all expectations to produce a slick, extravagant and highly engaging show. Mr Jones, the Theatre Director in Residence, lauded the company as “a collaborative, talented, and creative lower school ensemble. Theatrical seafarers – one and all –who navigated the course of the rehearsal and

production process with humour, professionalism, and a barrel load of swashbuckling.” Over the course of three nights, audiences were enthralled by daring sword fights, riveting storytelling, unforgettable characters, enchanting singing, incredible live music and even a talking parrot! The audience response was overwhelmingly positive. One audience member emailed to declare – “WOWSERS! What an amazing show!”

EDINBURGH FRINGE FESTIVAL 2024: DRACULA

KCS Theatre Co. are thrilled to be returning to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival this year after their five-star, sell-out production of Dorian in 2022 which transferred to the West End’s Criterion Theatre in 2023. This year they are bringing a bold and stylised reimagining of Bram Stoker’s gothic masterpiece:

Dracula’s dark tale of sinister seduction and descent awakens fear and fascination in the hearts of all who dare to watch as thrilling drama, daring movement and original score combine in this visceral new production of atmospheric horror.

Arts Round-Up

Following the success of our inaugural event last year, we were delighted to host our second King’s Arts festival in June – a fiveday celebration of the arts and culture. The programme was packed with performances, talks, concerts, art exhibitions and an array of pupil workshops, as well as a fantastic production in collaboration with some of our partner schools.

Partnering with London’s leading literature festival, Wimbledon BookFest, we were thrilled to offer a programme designed to inspire creativity and artistic expression that enabled all pupils to take part.

Highlights from this year’s programme include:

• One of King’s own, BAFTA winning doctor and television presenter Dr Chris van Tulleken (OK 1996), returned to the school to share the eye-opening scientific research from his book Ultra-Processed People that sheds light on the impact our food has on our bodies.

• Nobel Prize-winning scientist Venki Ramakrishnan shared the latest science on aging gleaned from the research conducted for his book, The New Science of Aging and the Quest for Immortality.

• World-class musician, Julian Lloyd Weber OBE, led a special masterclass for King’s pupil-cellists.

• The world-renowned Onyx Brass gave an incredibly special performance in the concert hall.

• The partnerships production has become a distinctive feature of the Art’s Festival. This year, pupil performers from King’s and local partner schools from across the Wimbledon Partnership performed their interpretation of Alexander L’Estrange’s Zimbe!, a vibrant celebration of joy and collaboration.

A huge thank you to Wimbledon Homes, our Lead Sponsors, and the Friends of King’s for their support.

Music Highlights

KING’S ORGAN PUPILS VISIT WESTMINSTER ABBEY

On Sunday 28th January, eight King’s organ pupils experienced a remarkable visit to Westminster Abbey. The day commenced at St James’ Church, Sussex Gardens, where students had the opportunity to explore the church’s distinguished instrument. Following a brief bus journey, the group arrived at the Abbey, recently the venue for King Charles’ coronation, to attend a recital by organist

Peter Holder, featuring Bach’s ‘Toccata and Fugue in D minor’.

The afternoon concluded with an exclusive organists’ lock-in, allowing pupils to play the renowned five manual organ. Special appreciation is extended to Assistant Organist Matthew Jorysz, Mr de Voil, and Mr Phillips for organising this inspirational event.

KING’S STAGES FIRST BAROQUE MUSICAL VENTURE

For the first time, King’s staged a Baroque musical venture featuring eleven singers accompanied by solo obligato instruments (flutes, oboe, violins, organ) and continuo (cello with harpsichord or organ) in 12 arias by Bach and Handel. Many pupils had never played the harpsichord before but adapted well to the demands of style and technique.

The performances showcased great agility and virtuosity, with lower school instrumentalists confidently accompanying sixth form singers. Despite challenges in rehearsal time and the maturity required for such repertoire, each performance was delivered with remarkable skill and poise.

LOWER AND MIDDLE SCHOOL SPRING CONCERT

A large and appreciative audience enjoyed the Lower and Middle School Spring Concert, celebrating all the musical groups active this term. Highlights included the Concert Band’s stylish performance of ‘Buffalo Rock’ by Mr Rae and Sinfonia’s rousing rendition of ‘In the Hall of the Mountain King’. Smaller groups like the Popper Cello Ensemble, String Orchestra, and Guitar Ensemble also shone.

The ambitious unaccompanied performance of ‘How Can I Keep from Singing’ showcased solo singers, while Cambiata impressed with two energetic songs from West Side Story Congratulations to the nearly 120 pupils involved and thanks to the dedicated staff.

Sports Highlights

ANNUAL CROSS COUNTRY RUN

On Saturday 27th January, our annual crosscountry race saw a fantastic turnout for runners competing for the Kevin Hawney Cup, named after the legendary teacher and Head of Cross Country. The event, which has been held every year since 2007, featured alumni, staff and current pupils. Caleb (U6L2) won the race with an excellent time of 14 minutes 10 seconds, followed by Mr Poole in second place and OK Thomas Vanderstichele (OK 2015) in third. The race concluded with a delicious tea provided by the King’s catering staff.

Next year’s event is scheduled for Saturday 1st February 2025. We hope to see you there!

FOOTBALL HIGHLIGHTS: TRINITY CUP TRIUMPH FOR KING’S

In April, King’s 1st XI football team clinched the Trinity Cup in a thrilling final against The Royal Grammar School (RGS) at Carshalton Athletic Football Club. Following victories over Latymer and Dulwich, King’s dominated early possession but only broke through in the 34th minute with Adam’s (L6MAC1) goal, assisted by Aidan (U6K2). Ethan (L6K1)

secured a second goal during the second half, assisted by Alex (U6M1). Despite RGS’ late comeback, King’s excelled in extra time, scoring three more goals: Aidan (U6K2) and Captain Ben (U6A1) netting twice. The 5-2 victory ended years of near misses, bringing the Trinity Cup back to King’s.

NETBALL HIGHLIGHTS

SUCCESS AT LORD WANDSWORTH COLLEGE NETBALL TOURNAMENT

On Saturday 2nd March, our 1st, 2nd, and 3rd VII teams competed in the Lord Wandsworth College Netball Tournament against Reed’s, Bradfield College, Charterhouse, Epsom College, and St Edward’s. The 1st VII won three matches, the 2nd VII won four and drew

one, and the 3rd VII won three and drew one. Special congratulations to Larissa (U6G) for being voted Player of the Tournament in the 3rd VII competition, a very special achievement in such a high-quality field.

ROWING HIGHLIGHTS:

RIPPLES OF TRIUMPH: BOAT CLUB’S HALF TERM FEATS

At the Hammersmith Head, our rowers clinched victories in both the J16 and J18 8s events. History was made as our girls’ VIII competed in the Under 18 event for the first time. At the Great Britain U19 trials in Boston, Fraser (U6K2), Alastair (L6K2), Finlay (U6A2), and Ivo (L6M2) achieved a top 10 finish.

END OF TERM HIGH FOR KING’S ROWERS

At the end of a busy term, King’s rowers achieved outstanding results at the School’s Head of the River Race. The boys’ 1st VIII placed third in the Championship VIIIs, while the girls’ squad made history, finishing 14th in their first Girls’ 1st VIIIs competition. The 2nd VIII came seventh, and both J16 VIIIs secured second place. The J15s 1st and 2nds finished third and seventh, respectively. The J14s excelled at the Dorney Lake scullery, racing fantastically with two octuple sculls coming in 7th and 15th of a 30 strong event, and two

quadruple sculls coming in 19th and 23rd of 39 boats.

Six of our rowers have achieved international competition success. Fraser Burdett (U6K2) was selected to represent GB for the Junior World Rowing Championships. Finlay Murray (U6A2) and Ivo Monaghan (L6M2) were selected to represent GB for the Coupe de la Jeunesse competition and Alastair Heathcote (L6K2), William Groom (U6A2) and Felix Sitter (U6MAC2) were selected to race for England at the Home Countries Regatta.

THE SENIOR GIRLS’ – BALL CUP 2024

The Senior Girls’ squad made waves at this year’s prestigious Ball Cup. Coached by the talented Charlotte Lennox, the team competed fiercely in various categories, showcasing their skill and determination.

Here’s a recap of their performances:

• Zoya (L6L) gave it her all but unfortunately got knocked out in her heat.

• Raffy (L6M), on the other hand, powered through to the final and secured an impressive 6th place overall.

• The double scull team faced tough competition and was eliminated in the heats of the J18 2x category.

• The coxed IV crew delivered an exceptional performance, securing 2nd place overall in the J18 IV+s category.

• Their silver medal finish was a testament to their teamwork and determination, with only a narrow margin separating them from the eventual winners.

The Henley Women’s Regatta (HWR) is the pinnacle of the year for most schoolgirl crews and King’s participation in this prestigious event was a significant achievement. Despite finishing last in the Junior 4+ event, the girls raced admirably, trailing local rivals Wimbledon High School and Putney High School by just two seconds. Notably, this crew consists of lower sixth rowers, ensuring continuity and the possibility of even stronger performances next year.

Congratulations to the girls squad for their remarkable efforts and well-deserved success!

HENLEY ROYAL REGATTA 2024

King’s made a fantastic start at the Henley Regatta, beating Great Marlow School by 4 ¾ lengths in the first round and Putney Embankment neighbours Dulwich College by 1 ¾ lengths in the last 16. In the quarter final, the 1st VIII put in a gutsy performance against the defending champions St Edward’s School. In a tremendous display of schoolboy rowing, both crews battled it out over the 2.1km course, but in the end, St Edward’s managed to cling on to win by ¾ of a length.

The 2nd VIII and quad raced well but

FRASER BURDETT AWARDED SPEEKS CUP

Fraser (U6) received the Speeks Cup at this year’s Prize Giving on 3rd July. Representing Great Britain at the Munich International Regatta in May 2024, Fraser won the U19 men’s VIII, IV, and pair categories, a historic achievement. He also rowed for England at

TENNIS:

missed out on qualifications for their extremely competitive competitions.

We would also like to congratulate our old boys Callum Betteley (OK 2020 – Durham A Crew), Ollie Holmes (OK 2020 – Edinburgh University), Ben Lundi (OK 2022) and Alex Forbes (OK 2022 – Harvard University), James Clarke (OK 2014 – London Rowing Club A Crew) and Jack Elkington (OK 2012 – Vesta Coach) for their success during this event.

the 2023 Home Countries Regatta winning all three races, and competed in the Henley Royal Regatta reaching Friday’s event. Fraser has shown exceptional leadership as the stroke seat of the 1st VIII for King’s.

OLIVER BONDING’S VICTORY AT THE 18U LEXUS JUNIOR NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

Oliver Bonding’s victory in the men’s singles final at the U18 Lexus Junior National Championship earnt him a coveted wild card entry into the main draw at Wimbledon Tennis this summer. Oliver has also previously won the prestigious J500 Blumenau title,

often referred to as the Banana Bowl, and faced Japan’s Naoya Honda.

At Wimbledon 2024, Oliver – who left King’s last year – competed in the boys’ singles where he faced Reda Bennani from Morocco.

Combined Cadet Force Highlights

RAF BENSON’S AIR EXPERIENCE FLIGHT

A privileged group of seven cadets made a visit to RAF Benson in Oxfordshire for an Air Experience Flight.

The day began with a safety briefing and aircraft abandonment drills in the ground training equipment, providing an opportunity to practice with the parachutes and emergency features of the aircraft.

During 35 minutes of flying time, pilot Roger and the cadets took a tour of Oxford University at 4000ft, showcasing the Mini factory and old college buildings dotted across the verdant landscapes of a somewhat cloudy British countryside.

With the aid of the instruments, instructions were given on how to fly straight and level, making small inputs to the control stick to adjust the course of the aircraft. Turns followed, involving tilting the wings at a slight incline until the desired heading was achieved.

Roger then increased the excitement by finding a sparse patch of cloud, allowing for some aerobatics. In an exhilarating fluid gesture, Roger executed a barrel roll, flipping the aircraft upside down! Experiencing airborne G-forces for the first time was thrilling.

The day concluded with a safe touchdown. For some, this experience might mark the beginning of a long flying career.

We have had a busy and fruitful summer term in the junior school. Pupils continue to excel in the classroom but recognise that positive academic outcomes are simply a byproduct of a diverse and enriching educational experience that is comprised of so much more than great lessons. We try our best in every sphere of school life, seeking to take advantage of the incredible opportunities on offer at King’s and to have as much fun as possible.

The term began with the Rushmere production of Fantastic Mr Fox, featuring all 122 pupils in full costume under the lights of the Collyer Hall Theatre. The directorial team turned this famous story into a musical with some creative rewriting of the lyrics of wellknown pop songs. The culmination of the annual piano competition saw many junior school pupils performing alongside their senior school counterparts in a final of very high quality in April and, in May, a very enjoyable concert was held to showcase the progress of Rushmere pupils who picked up new instruments for the first time in September as part of the Beginner Groups scheme.

The U11 cricketers enjoyed a successful cricket tour to Guernsey over half-term and the U11A team reached the semi-finals of the Surrey Prep Schools’ Cup. Large teams have competed in West Surrey Athletics and Thomas’s Athletics, with two third form pupils competing in national finals in Birmingham. The ever-growing U8 provision has seen more pupils than ever playing tennis in clubs and fixtures, with one second former recently leading his Surrey team to victory in the national championships. The swimmers have also enjoyed a successful term, finishing fourth in the grand final of the London league and giving a very creditable showing in the IAPS national finals at the London Aquatics Centre in June.

We have, this term, for the first time, entered a team in the national Quiz Club competition. Up against hundreds of schools, three boys from third form and one from first form made it through an area heat and a semi-final and have recently been crowned national champions! In light of the English Prep Schools Chess Association’s decision not to run U9 and U11 national competitions (denying us an opportunity to defend the U9 crown), we hosted a ‘champion of champions’ event in its place, involving top chess-playing schools from around the country. The U11 did well to finish fifth, while the U9s reasserted their dominance by winning their contest.

Mental Health Awareness Week took place in May and was an opportunity to reflect on the myriad ways we can keep wellbeing central to school life. The national theme of ‘keep moving’ coincided with Walk to School Week, which was run as a house event, with pupils and colleagues encouraged to walk, scoot and cycle to school where possible. Collectively, the junior school community covered almost 3500km by these means over the five days, with an estimated reduction in carbon emissions of 663kg. On the final day, over 100 pupils, parents and staff met at the windmill on Wimbledon Common to walk to school together.

WE BID FAREWELL TO A NUMBER OF COLLEAGUES THIS YEAR.

• Mr Andrew Baker MBE arrived at King’s in 2001 and has been a class teacher in Transition ever since. He started and has run The Obera Schools Project, which has seen Rushmere pupils raise over £400,000 for a group of primary schools in rural Kenya.

• April Hillier joined King’s College junior school in November 2002 as a part-time admin assistant in the school office. In the summer of 2015 April increased her hours and became a school secretary. She retired in December 2023 to spend more time with her family.

• Mrs Olwen Hamilton joined in 2003. She has run the religious studies and philosophy department in the junior school and taught latin across junior and lower schools.

• Mrs Suzie Richards joined in 2007 and has worked as Headmaster’s PA and, more recently, junior school registrar. She leaves us to work for the Independent Association of Prep Schools.

• Ricky Anderson joined the junior school as a teacher of maths and games in September 2007. He later became head of the maths department. Ricky left King’s in December 2023 to take up a new teaching position and join his wife and two young sons in South Africa.

• Mrs Sarah Phillips has taught in Rushmere for 13 years, sharing a class in first form with Mrs Blight. She has run the Gardening Club with great passion and care and been a staunch supporter of the Chamber Choir.

• Mr Bertie Graham leaves us after four years teaching maths and coaching sport in the junior and lower schools. He is moving on to become head of maths at Brighton College’s new prep school in Kensington.

• Mr Zak Lyons leaves after a year in the Music department to take up a new post at Oasis Academy Shirley Park in September.

• Mr Trishan Patel has spent a year here as junior school graduate, assisting with sport across the junior school and undertaking innumerable supervision duties. He now returns to the University of Bath to complete his degree.

• Mr Thomas Yates leaves King’s for the

second time, having finished his studies here this time last year. He has spent his gap year as our Rushmere Assistant, making a great impression on our younger learners. Needless to say, we wish our leavers well with their next steps.

CELEBRATING MR BOB MITCHELLS’ DISTINGUISHED SERVICE

We are delighted to celebrate the remarkable achievement of Mr Bob Mitchell, one of our longest- serving teachers, who was honoured with an award for his outstanding service to the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme (DoE) at the Merton DoE award presentation evening in April.

Mr Mitchell has been a pivotal figure in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award at King’s since the early 1990s.The award, which empowers young people in the UK and across 130 countries through the International Award Foundation, is open to individuals aged 14-24. Participants can achieve Bronze, Silver, and Gold awards by completing activities in four areas: volunteering, physical, skills, and expedition, with an additional residential section at the Gold level.

For over thirty years, Mr Mitchell has led both the Silver and Gold expeditions, guiding countless pupils through the rigorous threeday, two-night Silver and four-day, three-night

Gold trips. His dedication extended beyond regular school hours, as he generously gave his time over weekends and school holidays. Mr Mitchell’s commitment to nurturing lifelong, transferable skills through outdoor activities has left a lasting impact on generations of pupils. His leadership also extended to his role as Contingent Commanding Officer in the Combined Cadet Force.

Reflecting on his years with the DoE, Mr Mitchell remarked, “It has been a tremendous pleasure for me to watch pupils get recognition for the wide range of activities they are involved in. I have enjoyed seeing them step into the unknown, persevere, and meet new challenges.”

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Mr Mitchell on this well-deserved recognition. As he retires at the end of this academic year, we celebrate his 41-year teaching career dedicated to the pupils at King’s.

MBE FOR SERVICES TO EDUCATION AND THE COMMUNITY

Congratulations to Mr Andrew Baker who received his MBE for services to Education and to the Community in Obera, Kenya in February by HRH The Prince of Wales.

The award was made in recognition of Mr Baker’s dedicated work on The Obera Schools’ Project, which he established in Rushmere 18 years ago. The project supports an impoverished community in rural Kenya –where Mr Baker taught at a school in his gap year.

Since its inception, members of the King’s community have raised more than £392,000 for The Obera Schools’ Project to improve the facilities and infrastructure in this

remote location. Projects have included the rebuilding of two schools, with a third school in progress – so far encompassing 30 new classrooms, two libraries and two computer suites. The community now also has a bore hole providing fresh water and a porridge kitchen providing crucial support by ensuring that the neediest children start the day with a nutritious breakfast.

Involvement with this initiative helps our junior school pupils understand cultural and economic differences and shows them the tangible and sustained impact collective action can make, enabling them to develop a greater appreciation of the inequalities of the world.

ROSETTI DAY: A CELEBRATION OF SCHOLARSHIP

Every spring term, King’s holds Rosetti Day, an exciting day of interdisciplinary learning for lower sixth pupils. Named after King’s notable literary alumni, this annual tradition celebrates academic discovery in an offsyllabus, university-style forum, highlighting the connections between different areas of knowledge.

This year’s Rosetti Day concluded the sixth form enrichment programme with the theme of ‘transformation.’ We welcomed three renowned experts for stimulating keynote lectures:

• Dr Carol Jacobi, Curator of British Art, Tate Britain, on ‘The Rosetti Family: A radical history’

• Dr Oliver Runswick, Senior Lecturer of Sport and Performance Psychology, KCL, on ‘Addressing problems in human performance and wellbeing: The need to collaborate’

• Alec Sargood, Rosetti Academic, King’s Alumni and PhD student at UCL, ln ‘The dangers of AI transforming our society: What’s all the fuss?’

Pupils also participated in workshops and seminars crossing subject disciplines, from Einstein’s legacy and four-dimensional numbers to Frida Kahlo and Britain’s preindustrial past.

Tom (L6A1) commented added, ‘‘Rosetti Day was unlike anything I have experienced before at King’s. The freedom to explore various subjects was incredible. Highlights included insights into Einstein’s Theory of Relativity. It emphasised the importance of collaboration and a broad knowledge base beyond the curriculum.’’

MIDDLE SCHOOL PLAY: HAMLET

The middle school production was a dynamic and fast-paced retelling of Shakespeare’s most famous revenge tragedy, Hamlet. With a stylised movement ensemble bringing to life Hamlet’s madness and torment, the audience experienced the classic story with a spine-tingling twist. Jake in the lead role was electrifying, bringing incredible sensitivity,

intelligence and vulnerability to the stage; the Hamlet ensemble proved a thrilling and dynamic team bringing to life the fracturing psyche of Hamlet’s mind; and the whole company worked together beautifully to serve the story with such talent and dedication –their collaborations were a true joy to watch.

SIXTH FORM PLAY: UNDER THE GLINTING SNOW

Inspired by Donna Tartt’s The Secret History, this electric adaptation by sixth former Kiera (L6) followed the charismatic Edmund Cochran as he faces his imminent death in a world surrounded by beguiling illusions and dangerous adolescence. The audience was treated to an hour of enthralling drama directed, produced, designed and starring the lower sixth dramatists – an incredible achievement continuing the new writing tradition in this slot after last year’s Scottie by Caitlin (U6), which was about the lives of the Fitzgerald family.

NATIONAL SCHOOL THEATRE AWARDS: BILLY ELLIOT

The senior school was delighted to have been invited to perform as part of the National School Theatre Awards ceremony on Monday 24th June this year, after an incredible review of the senior school production Billy Elliot in the autumn term. The team performed the musical’s opening number, The Stars Look Down, alongside 12 other schools, and was

thrilled that the original cast and crew were able to return for one final performance. The band were also in virtual attendance as they had recorded a beautiful backing track for the performance. The absolute icing on the cake was that the performance won two awards - Best Supporting Actor for Sal (U5M1)who played Tony), and Best Musical!

Talks round-up

JOE

GARNER (OK 1987)

We had the privilege of hosting Joe Garner (OK 1987), former CEO of Nationwide, who delivered a thought-provoking talk on the ethical dimensions of decision-making. Garner delineated three fundamental pillars shaping our choices: Law, Love, and Logic.

He expounded on how individuals subconsciously weigh these factors when making decisions, each contributing to varied outcomes. Notably, Garner underscored the indispensability of adhering to a set of non-negotiable moral principles, especially within the dynamic landscape of business. He stressed that during crises, such moral compasses serve as guiding lights, navigating through turbulent waters.

In a world characterized by volatility and uncertainty, cultivating a steadfast commitment to moral integrity emerges as

a beacon of resilience, guiding organisations through tumultuous seas.

Celebrating success round-up

KING’S PUPILS CELEBRATE OFFERS FROM THE WORLD’S LEADING UNIVERSITIES

This year we were thrilled to report that 41 pupils received offers to study at Oxford and Cambridge. The number of pupils to receive offers from Cambridge is the highest we have seen since 2014, with an impressive eight of these being for mathematics. Pupils also received offers in subjects including economics and PPE, english and history, languages, computer science and philosophy.

There were more than 60 offers for Durham, Imperial, and LSE, across a wide range of courses, as well as unconditional offers to Yale, Columbia, and Cornell, and at leading universities in Europe and Canada. Alongside this, some have exciting gap year plans,

including through the annual opportunities at our sister school, King’s College International School Bangkok.

Following last year’s record-breaking uptake of medical places across the UK’s top universities, there have been a host of offers for medicine, including four Oxbridge offers.

Mr Lam, Director of Higher Education, commented: “We are delighted to see our upper sixth already being rewarded with impressive offers from prestigious universities around the world. Each offer is an individual success story and the culmination of sustained, purposeful intellectual exploration and hard work during their sixth form studies.”

Charter Project

KING’S AND WIMBLEDON HIGH LAUNCH THE FIRST EDITION OF THE CHARTER JOURNAL, VOICES

On Wednesday 31st January, Aniket (U6) and Catherine (U6) attended the launch of the new Charter legacy project, the Voices journal, at Wimbledon High School. This journal, a collection of articles from the October Charter Conference, featured contributions from 17 schools, bringing together 90 student-leaders to discuss Young People’s Mental Health. The journal includes articles on identity and mental health, with a notable feature by Dr Ama Collinson, a renowned child psychologist.

The evening began with an opening address by Phoebe, Head of the Charter at Wimbledon High, followed by a discussion of an article co-written by Aniket and Catherine, who were joined by Ivo from Hampton School. Their article explored the impact of language on mental health discussions,

focusing on gender, eating disorders, and the misuse of mental health terminology.

The main segment was a panel discussion with Dr Ama Collinson, hosted by Phoebe, Lauren from Wimbledon High, and Daniel from Whitgift. The panel covered topics such as teenage mental health and the impact of microaggressions on minorities, providing valuable insights.

Catherine, Head of the Charter at King’s, concluded the evening with an address and a call-out for the Charter Charity, Joe’s Buddy Line. Proceeds from the sale of the Voices journal and other Charter merchandise have been donated to this charity, which is dedicated to youth mental health.

The event was a resounding success, fostering cross-school connections and supporting a noble cause.

ONE WORLD DAY 2024

One World Day is an annual event dedicated to embracing the rich tapestry of cultures, religions, and heritage within our community. This year’s theme, ‘Sharing Our Diversity, Celebrating Our Community,’ initiated a flurry of activities across the school.

Year 8 students engaged in a cross-cultural dialogue with peers from King’s Bangkok via video link, exploring daily school life and discovering commonalities and differences. Year 7 students had a live link with our deputy head, exchanging insights on fostering unity and understanding.

Fourth formers to upper sixth form held discussions in their tutor periods, with subject teachers highlighting remarkable figures from underrepresented groups across various subjects.

The highlight of the day was in the Great

Hall, where over 20 nations and cultures were represented by enthusiastic pupils. Stalls were adorned with decorations, tantalising food, and cultural artefacts.

Mahnoor (L6) shared her experience: “Celebrating this day was enriching, blending cultures through food, music, and crafts. Setting up the Pakistani stall was a great opportunity to meet fellow Pakistanis and share our culture.The stall featured delicacies like cake rusk, pani puri, and mango lassi, and crafts such as rickshaw sculptures and bangles.”

Tutor time featured diverse musical selections, and a French lesson included a guest speaker discussing Rwandan and Congolese culture.

It was a wonderful day full of events which successfully fostered cultural appreciation and connection among peers.

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

King’s celebrated International Women’s Day throughout the school, following this year’s theme of Technology. The Girl Ambassadors hosted several assemblies and welcomed guest speaker and accomplished female entrepreneur, Michelle Kennedy. Michelle is the visionary founder and CEO behind the app Peanut, a dynamic platform that fosters connections among women, addressing critical topics like fertility and motherhood, and serving as a vibrant community hub for women.

The Girl Ambassadors reflect on the celebrations:

“We chose the topic for the assembly because we felt it was important for everyone, not just female students, and we were able to give our ideas and opinions. We loved that we were given the opportunity to speak to so many different year groups to get their perspectives.’’

“The talk in the evening was equally exciting. Michelle’s central aim is to connect women in all stages of life, taking a new spin on the concept of dating apps. The talk was chaired by Riya, Lucy, and Zara (U6) and provided an enlightening perspective on

NEURODIVERSITY CELEBRATION WEEK

Neurodiversity Celebration Week was a dynamic initiative aimed at fostering equality and inclusion. The school organised engaging assemblies and dedicated tutor time to a special quiz.

A panel of staff members and former pupils discussed neurodiversity beyond school, reflecting on university experiences, later-life diagnoses, and career influences. Ms Bailey led the lower school assembly, explaining the Spoon Theory, which helps neurodiverse individuals manage their energy and reduces stigmatization.

being successful, creative, and driven in the male-dominated tech industry.’’

“Something that really struck a chord with us was her saying that ‘people find it difficult at first when you’re challenging social norms, but if the message is strong and powerful enough then it pushes through.’’

The highlight was the inaugural Neurodiversity Fair in the New Hall, where pupils explored ADHD, ASC, Dyslexia, and Dyspraxia. Attendees contributed to a supportive wall, engaged with Staff Mentor and Pupil Ambassador Groups, and participated in activities to understand neurodivergent profiles.

Upcoming Events

We have a great programme of events planned for the autumn term for our alumni and supporters, so please keep an eye out for our monthly e-Bulletins that will keep you informed of everything going on, provide registration details, and announce speakers. Please diarise the following dates, with more information to follow:

SEPTEMBER:

TOURS AND TEA

Interested in finding out more about the history of King’s? Join Dr Lucy Inglis, school archivist, for a campus tour, where you will have the chance to visit familiar haunts such as the Great Hall, whilst learning about the school’s history. The tour will be followed by refreshments and a chance to see a selection of documents from the school archive.

Date: Tuesday 24th September 2024

Time: 2.45pm – 5.00pm

Venue: King’s College School, Wimbledon

Audience: All members of the King’s community

RSVP: Please register here

SECTOR NETWORKING SERIES: LAW SOCIETY PANEL EVENT

We will welcome a panel of alumni and parents working in various aspects of the Law to give detailed insider knowledge of the legal profession. Our panel will share practical tips based on their personal journeys and there will be ample time for Q&A.

Date: Thursday 26th September 2024

Time: 7.00pm – 9.15pm

Venue: The Concert Hall

RSVP: Please register here

Speakers: Matt Abraham (OK 2006), Barrister, South Square. Alex Shandro, Partner, A&O Shearman. Parishil Patel KC, 39 Essex Chambers. Alex Payne , Head of Legal (Commercial) at Chelsea Football Club. Katy Blake (OK 2012) Senior Legal Counsel at AlphaSights.

KING’S 1ST XV v WIMBLEDON COLLEGE

OK Rugby – King’s 1st XV v Wimbledon College

Date: Saturday 28th September 2024

Time: 9.30am – 1.30pm Time: (9.30am pre-game breakfast. 11.00am start of play)

Venue: Dalziel Room and Pitch, King’s College School, Wimbledon

Audience: All are welcome

RSVP: Please register here

NOVEMBER:

OLD KING’S CLUB ANNUAL DINNER

The Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress of the City of London have generously offered to host this year’s Old King’s Club dinner at the Mansion House, which will commemorate Sir William Treloar‘s (OK 1854) life and work. The guest speaker will be Chris Jones (OK 2003), former winner of the Guinness Rugby Writer of the Year.

Date: Friday 1st November 2024

Time: 6.30pm - 10.30pm

Venue: Mansion House

Audience: All Old King’s Club members

Dress Code: Black Tie

RSVP: Please register here

FRIENDS OF KING’S FIREWORKS DISPLAY

Save the date for the Friends of King’s Fireworks Event on the King’s College School grounds!

Saturday 9th November. Tickets will go on sale in September. Please check Friends of King’s website to be in with a chance of securing tickets.

UPCOMING FRIENDS EVENTS:

FIREWORKS DISPLAY

On Saturday 9th November the night sky above King’s will once again be illuminated with a spectacular explosion of colour in celebration of Bonfire Night. The display is a highlight of the year and attracts a crowd of thousands, who are also treated to live music and circus acts. Be sure to get your ticket for this year’s event at Friends of Kings!

FRIENDS COMMUNITY TEA

In December, the Community Tea, an important and long-standing event at King’s, will take place. We will welcome elderly individuals from the Wimbledon area to enjoy an afternoon tea at the school, with carols, Christmas music and a warm and festive atmosphere. For many attendees this is their only outing of the year, making it a highly anticipated occasion.

CHRISTMAS FAIR

The Friends of King’s Christmas Fair is one of the most festive and popular events in the King’s calendar and brings together pupils, parents, staff, the local community and businesses, and partnership schools. Michelle Gilligan, Chair of the Friends said: “The event reminds us of the importance of community:

bringing together not only the army of parent volunteers who decorate, donate or host stalls, but also our partnership schools and families, loved ones and locals.”

Tickets will be available in the autumn term, so keep an eye out for upcoming e-Bulletins for details.

King’s

+44 (20) 8255 5390 development@kcs.org.uk