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KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS

2025/26

HEADMASTER’S WELCOME On any given afternoon at Kingswood this year, you might have found one group of pupils rehearsing for a production in the theatre, another preparing for a national robotics competition, others training on the lower astro in preparation for a regional or national hockey final, mentoring younger children in local schools, volunteering in the community, or planning an expedition to distant parts of the country and world. It is an ordinary sight at Kingswood and yet, when you pause to think about it, quite an extraordinary one. The pages of this year’s Kingswood In Focus capture that richness of experience rather well. Dear Parents and Friends,

s you leaf through this edition, you will encounter much that deserves celebration, given the many and varied endeavours of our pupils. These stories matter, not simply because of what was achieved, but because of what they reveal about the young people behind them. We often speak about providing pupils with opportunities, but opportunities only become meaningful when they are embraced with enthusiasm and generosity. Time and time again this year, our pupils have demonstrated exactly those qualities. I have been especially encouraged by the growth of service as a defining feature of a Kingswood education. Through volunteering, mentoring, charitable initiatives, STEM outreach projects and sporting partnerships, our pupils have contributed thousands of hours to the wider community. These experiences remind us that education is not simply about personal success. It is also about learning to use one's gifts in the service of others and developing a genuine commitment to the common good.

That spirit of service sits comfortably alongside a culture of ambition and high achievement. Congratulations to our Year 13 and 11 cohorts on their respective success in A Level, BTEC and GCSE public exams, and for an incredible 95% success rate to a university of choice. Beyond the classroom our pupils continue to demonstrate impressive talent in both supra and extra-curricular activities. What pleases me most, however, is the way these accomplishments are so often accompanied by kindness, humility, good sportsmanship and mutual support. Success at Kingswood is made all the more sweet by belonging to a community that genuinely wants one another to flourish. As I reflected in my parting words to our Year 13 leavers, in an age increasingly shaped by technology and artificial intelligence, I remain convinced that the qualities which matter most are profoundly human ones: curiosity, integrity, courage, compassion and the ability to build meaningful relationships. These qualities are nurtured every day through the experiences that make up

life in a busy school community, and they will serve our young people long after specific facts have been forgotten or examinations completed. None of what you will read in these pages happens by accident. It is made possible by dedicated staff whose care and commitment extend far beyond the classroom, by parents who partner with us so positively in the education of their children, and by pupils whose joyful, wholehearted engagement make Kingswood such a special place. Heartfelt thanks to you all. I hope you enjoy this snapshot of another remarkable year and sense the culture of a community that cares deeply, aims high and seeks, in ways large and small, to make a positive difference in the lives of others. With warmest wishes,

Mr Andrew Gordon-Brown Headmaster

Editor: Theresa Faux

CONTENTS 2

INTRODUCTIONS Headmaster’s Welcome A Year in Pictures

4 5 6 8 10 11

COMMUNITY & PARTNERSHIP Chaplain's Reflection Giving Back Service Beyond Our Gates Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Sustainability BISMUN 2026

12 13 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28

SCHOOL LIFE Sixth Form Middle School Westwood & Beaconfield Fonthill Hall Summerhill Middle School Upper Boarding at Kingswood

30 32 40 41

ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHTS Examination Results 2026 Across the Curriculum Sackett Society Prize Giving 2026

42 46 50 58 62

CREATIVE ARTS Art Design, Technology & Engineering Drama, including Senior & Junior Productions Music ‘KATS’ Music & Drama Awards

64 66 68 70 72 74 76 78 79 80 81

SPORT Girls' Hockey Rugby Netball Boys' Hockey Cricket Tennis Athletics Cross Country Football Swimming Athletic Development

82 86

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES & TRIPS Outdoor Pursuits Overseas Trips

102 104 106 107 108

LEAVERS & STAFF Heads of School Reflections Leavers' Ball Class of 2026 Staff Joiners and Leavers Teaching Staff & Governors List

109

FRIENDS OF KINGSWOOD

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | INTRODUCTION

A YEAR IN SEPTEMBER '25

OCTOBER '25

NOVEMBER '25

Kingswood wins the Thinking Beyond the Curriculum award at the Talk Education Awards for Innovation in Education, in recognition of our Advanced Electives Programme, launched in 2024 to challenge and inspire our Sixth Form students beyond the boundaries of exam syllabuses. Both Kingswood Prep and Senior Schools are also shortlisted for Independent School of the Year Awards.

Kingswood hosts the BANES Cross Country Championships which sees three Kingswood runners crowned county champions with 20 qualifying for the Avon Schools Championships. Elsewhere, 24 of our Year 13 students present their impressive EPQ projects to parents, staff and fellow students at our Showcase Evening, sharing months of hard work, research and creativity. Netball U16A make it through to Regional Finals.

Kingswood’s Social Impact Report is launched, celebrating a year of remarkable community engagement, charitable giving and transformational partnerships, with over £50,000 raised for charity and over 10,000 hours of student service. Elsewhere, 25 students sit their LAMDA exams, achieving a 100% pass rate with 21 distinctions and four merits.

MARCH '26

APRIL '26

MAY '26

Kingswood welcomes over 350 students representing 70 UN member states for two days of debate at the 35th BISMUN where delegates debate a range of global issues. In hockey, the U15A girls are runners-up at the U16 Shield National Final with four other Kingswood hockey teams making it to Nationals so far, and there is a celebration of piano and organ playing with Kingwood’s inaugural Keyboard Day welcoming international concert pianist Nurry Lee.

Kingswood hosts the Routes into Languages Spelling Bee Regional Final, welcoming schools from all over the South West. Kingswood triumphs in all three languages, winning Gold in French and two Silvers in German and Spanish, earning a place in the National Finals. Cricket season begins with a 1st XI pre-season tour to Desert Springs, Spain, and other trips over Easter include visits to Marrakesh, Berlin and the French Alps.

Kingswood’s U13 boys' hockey team make it to the Tier 1 England Hockey finals, placing them in the top 8 schools in the country. Kingswood’s Music Department participates in Bath’s Party in the City, with electric performances from Kingswood Jazz Orchestra and Harmony Rising Choir in association with Bath Philharmonia. Three Kingswood teams complete the Ten Tors Challenge with impressive results.

INTRODUCTION | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

PICTURES DECEMBER '25

JANUARY '26

FEBRUARY '26

Kingswood teams are crowned STEM Racing Regional Champions. Kingswood is incredibly proud to be a STEM Racing (formally F1 in Schools) Centre of Excellence, one of 13 across the UK. Elsewhere, the senior production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is well underway as well as rehearsals for the annual Carol Service at Bath Abbey, and students enjoy an AI & Computer Science Enrichment Day.

Boarders celebrate International Weekend, sharing traditions and extraordinary history of their home countries. Kingswood’s Year 8 robotics team, Ctrl-Alt-Defeat, compete in their first VEX Robotics UK IQ event and are crowned Skills Champions. Collaboration begins with the Royal Institution and Bath University to host the first Bath Primary Mathematics Masterclass series, welcoming local primary school students for a series of fun, hands-on workshops.

Kingswood becomes the first school in Bath to achieve an EqualiTeach award, recognising our strong and sustained commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion across the whole school community. The Kingswood Sustainability Club accepts around 100 tree sapling donations from the Woodland Trust ready for our school community to plant in Westwood Woods, increasing biodiversity around our multi-acre site.

JUNE '26

JULY '26

AUGUST '26

The annual Prize Giving at Bath Forum wraps up the academic year with over 250 students being awarded individual prizes for their effort and attainment throughout the year. Gold D of E participants depart for their expedition in the Lake District. The Social Justice group visits Zambia to get involved with the work of Beyond Ourselves, a charity working with primary schools across the whole country. The inaugural surf trip takes place, as well as a German trip to the Rhineland and Music Tour to Budapest.

Students achieve outstanding A Level and GCSE results, with 1 in 5 Year 11 students achieving straight 9-7 grades and the latest A Level results making the School’s five-year average 82% A*-B. Fifteen students this year secure offers for Oxbridge or Medicine and Veterinary Science courses. Preparations continue for a new academic year, ready to welcome Kingswood’s 2026-27 cohort.

The annual KATS Awards returns, celebrating another fantastic year of talent on stage and in the wings for Kingwood’s Music and Drama Departments, with a special message from Sir Stephen Fry. The junior production of The Addams Family coincides with the hottest June day on record, and Year 11 and 13 finish their GCSE and A Level exams after an impressive amount of hard work, dedication and perseverance.

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | COMMUNITY & PARTNERSHIP

CHAPLAIN’S REFLECTION ‘What religion do I preach? The religion of love. The law of kindness brought to light by the gospel…’ Revd John Wesley, Founder of Kingswood School

nspired by our Founder, at the heart of early Methodism was the belief that everyone has intrinsic worth, everyone matters. It is a stance which demands love, compassion, humility, kindness and a commitment to justice. It impacts not only how we see and respond to others but how we see, love and learn to accept ourselves. That work of love and kindness that looks inwards and outwards continues to be at the core of who we are at Kingswood, underpinning an education that seeks the flourishing of all. In Chapel we have dug deep to explore what some of those demands might mean in the context of our lives, for example challenging the misconception that humility involves having low selfesteem, asking what makes it a good character trait and whether it can be learnt. Or looking at how politicians have quoted the Good Samaritan in different ways, reflecting on what it means for society to care for the most vulnerable. Through the stories of people such as Martin Luther King and Etty Hillesum, and the teaching of Jesus, we have asked what it means to love your enemy and forgive others in difficult or everyday moments; how it might be possible to refuse to hate. We reflected on the many groups choosing ‘A Million Acts of Hope’ as a way to celebrate everyday acts of kindness, care and connection in our communities. Through examples from Malawi, Zambia, South Sudan, and local charities such as Southside, we have been challenged to grow in compassion, to stand up for justice and to use our gifts, where we can,

for the benefit of all. We have also celebrated the many ways in which students have responded to need: bringing in food, books and gifts to the local foodbank; providing care packages for Genesis Trust; collecting art resources for Southside; volunteering; and fundraising over £40,000 for local, national and international charities. I continue to be moved by the thoughtfulness, kindness, compassion and commitment of our students to serve and learn about the world in which they live. Our Founder would have been very impressed! Rev. Katy Thomas

COMMUNITY & PARTNERSHIP | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

Some of the charities who have benefited from our fundraising this year...

GIVING BACK Underpinned by our Wesleyan values, our commitment to supporting charities has remained as strong as ever this year, with our school community raising over £40,000 for local, national and international causes.

ur annual Christmas Fair alone raised over £12,000 for our five partner charities in Malawi. Throughout the year, a range of other fundraising initiatives also enabled us to support Children’s Hospice South West, Papyrus, Save the Children, Southside, Voices for Life, Nordiff & Ribins Music Therapy, All We Can, Beyond Ourselves, Genesis Trust, Wonderfund, Crisis, Action for ME, British Legion Poppy Appeal, Cardiac Risk in the Young, Keynsham Mencap, Movember, Makaton, Millimetres to Mountains, Bath Cats & Dogs, Bath Mind, Cancer Research UK, Education for All, Blind Veterans UK, Teenage Cancer Trust, Dorothy House, Breast Cancer UK, UNICEF Middle East Crisis, National Literary Trust, Mary’s Meals, Masi FC, Lift Project, and Night Stop YMCA. Together, these fundraising efforts reflect the generosity, compassion and sense of service that lie at the heart of our Wesleyan values. Thank you to everyone in our school community who has contributed to making such a positive difference this year.

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | COMMUNITY & PARTNERSHIP

SERVICE BEYOND OUR GATES "Do all the good you can, By all the means you can, In all the ways you can, In all the places you can, At all the times you can, To all the people you can, As long as ever you can." John Wesley

s another busy and rewarding school year draws to a close, it is worth pausing to celebrate something that lies at the heart of what it means to be a Kingswoodian: our commitment to serving others.

than 16,000 hours of service and, through a wide variety of projects and partnerships, supported and engaged with over 12,500 people beyond our school community.

Service has always been woven into the fabric of Kingswood, inspired by the Wesleyan belief that education should help young people develop not only knowledge and skills, but also compassion, responsibility and a desire to make a difference. This year, that tradition has continued to flourish.

What has been particularly encouraging is the way service is becoming less about individual events and more about sustained relationships. Increasingly, our students are not simply taking part in activities; they are building meaningful connections, learning from others and discovering the value of contributing to something bigger than themselves.

The figures alone are remarkable. Over the course of the year, Kingswood students and staff contributed more

This can be seen across three areas that have become defining features of our community engagement this year. 1. In STEM, Kingswood has continued to strengthen its role as a centre of opportunity and aspiration for young people across the region. Through our Royal Institution Masterclasses, VEX Robotics programme, regional STEM Racing competitions and new partnerships, including exciting developments in Computer Science, we have welcomed students from schools across the South West onto our campus. Just as importantly, our own students have taken leading roles,

sharing their enthusiasm, mentoring younger students and helping to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers and innovators. 2. In sport, Kingswood has reaffirmed its place as a welcoming hub for the wider community. Cross country events, rugby festivals and cricket competitions have brought hundreds of young people from local and regional schools together. These occasions are about far more than competition. They create opportunities for connection, confidence-building and belonging while also allowing our own students to develop as leaders, coaches and ambassadors. 3. Perhaps most inspiring of all has been the growth of volunteering and social justice initiatives. Sixth Form students have committed themselves to long-term partnerships with organisations including Mentoring Plus, Southside, Children's Hospice South West, the Life Project and many others. Through these experiences, they have learned that service is not measured simply by hours given but by relationships formed, empathy developed and responsibilities embraced.

COMMUNITY & PARTNERSHIP | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

None of this happens by accident. It reflects the commitment of colleagues across the school who generously give their time, expertise and energy to create opportunities for our students to serve. It also reflects the enthusiasm of our students, who continue to approach these opportunities with kindness, maturity and a willingness to engage with the needs of others. As we look ahead, we are excited to build on this momentum. We will deepen our partnerships, expand opportunities for mentoring and volunteering, strengthen our links with local schools and continue to use the power of sport, STEM and service to enrich lives both within and beyond Kingswood.

A YEAR OF SERVICE: AT A GLANCE THE NUMBERS

16,000+

12,500+

Hundreds of Kingswood students involved in volunteering, outreach and partnership work

Growing participation across all year groups, including significant Sixth Form leadership

hours of service contributed by students and staff

people supported through community engagement activities

STEM AND COMMUNITY ENRICHMENT • Hosted regional STEM Racing Finals • Expanded VEX Robotics provision • Delivered Royal Institution Masterclasses • Welcomed students from primary and state schools across the South West • Announced new opportunities through the HG Foundation Computer Science initiative • Increased student leadership in STEM outreach activities

SPORT AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT • Hosted major cross country, rugby and cricket events • Engaged hundreds of external students • Strengthened Kingswood's role as a regional sporting hub • Created coaching and sports leadership opportunities for Kingswood students • Expanded opportunities for participation, inclusion and partnership

VOLUNTEERING AND SOCIAL JUSTICE

For now, however, it is right simply to say thank you. Thank you to our students for their generosity of spirit. Thank you to our staff for their dedication and encouragement. And thank you to our partners, whose collaboration enables this work to have such a meaningful impact. The numbers tell an impressive story, but they are only part of it. The real success lies in the character of the young people we are helping to shape and in the difference they are making in the lives of others. That, surely, is the very best of Kingswood. Mr Garrod Musto, Director of Partnerships and Community Engagement

• Increased Sixth Form involvement in long-term volunteering • Continued partnerships with: > Mentoring Plus > Southside > Children's Hospice South West > Life Project • Expanded student-led social justice initiatives • Greater focus on sustained relationships rather than one-off activities

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | COMMUNITY & PARTNERSHIP

EDI Kingswood’s work on EDI this year has focused on three main areas: celebration, information and review.

elebration and information have gone hand in hand all through the year – with an incredible amount of work put in by our engaged and passionate students. We started the year with a celebration of East and South East Asian Months. A small group visited Toppings for an Asian book event with four different authors, all of whom were exploring their cultural heritage in different and fascinating ways. Students also presented assemblies to all age groups, on their own varied heritage from a range of different Asian countries – we learned about school life in Hong Kong, Korean global influence, Japanese traditional clothing and the political situation in Nepal. Perhaps the most moving moment was hearing a poem performed in Nepali.

We also had an incredible whole school pan-Asian lunch, which students helped to plan. Some of the dishes have made it onto the regular menu! Students also led Black History Month assemblies (on the influence of Black stories and people in Hollywood) and tutor time sessions. ‘Black Students of Kingswood’ was reborn as ‘Culture Connect’, encouraging students of any heritage to come together to explore and celebrate. Culture Connect has successfully taken part in an event at Downside School and welcomed staff and students from a range of local schools to a very enjoyable evening at Kingswood including talks, quizzes and energetic socialising. To mark International Women’s Day, we looked at the dangers to all genders of using AI generated images. AI tends to create very stereotyped images of genders (and ages and ethnicities) in a wide range of job roles, creating a dangerous echo-chamber effect of who should be performing those roles. The EDI prefect, Janice, masterminded a meal out for boarders for Lunar New Year, but we also had a delicious lunch from our catering team. Mrs Lam also made a video for tutor groups to use, demonstrating how to make calligraphy messages on strips of red paper for good fortune. Many of us had a lot of fun copying the video to create our own.

...the Silver Equaliteach Award acknowledges everything that we do to celebrate and support diversity in the Kingswood community.

Pride Club is student led by members of Year 12 and 13 and has discussed many topics, light and serious, this year. Their discussions have led to important meetings with school management about language use in school. We have welcomed Becky Cann from Mr B’s to talk about representation in books for young people and some of her recommendations have been purchased for the library. Pride Club also presented an assembly to Years 10 and 12 on the importance of Pride Month which included: role models, a flag quiz, discussion of hurtful slurs and how to be an ally. Matilda, one of our Year 13 students, gave an extremely powerful and thought-provoking assembly to all age groups on Autism. In only 20

COMMUNITY & PARTNERSHIP | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

minutes, she covered its history, misconceptions, slurs, gender differences and personal experiences. Staff and students were grateful for her insight and clarity on an important topic. We celebrated our third school Identity Day, with the invitation for students to dress in a way that represented their heritage, character or passions. This started a lot of lively and interesting conversations! We also enjoyed an international lunch, provided by our incredible catering team. In the background of all of the wonderful celebrations and discussions, Kingswood worked towards – and achieved – the Silver Equaliteach Award. This award acknowledges everything that we do to celebrate and support diversity in the Kingswood community. It was a little like a school inspection and dug deep into every area of school

life: the curriculum, admissions, staff recruitment, pastoral care, safeguarding, rewards and sanctions and overall school ethos. We are very proud to have achieved it – but are also using all of the information gathered as a jumping off point for future development. We have continued to host forums on different protected characteristics, which have always provided food for thought. This year we have had whole school staff training on Anti-Racism from writer and broadcaster Jeffrey Boakye and on Neurodivergence from Fintan O’Regan. We are proud to be partnering with TREE Foundation in their ‘Words Matter’ campaign. We have had visits from Matt Johnston to talk to Years 10 and 11 about the power of language when referring to ethnicity – linking this to texts being studied at GCSE.

Students were fascinated to look at real documents linked to the slave trade and the way language was used in those to diminish the humans involved to the status of objects. I have been hugely grateful for our EDI prefect Janice, who has worked tirelessly to involve as many students as possible in events and discussions. I have also been very grateful to all of the students of all year groups who have led groups, attended forums, organised assemblies or have used their voices to advocate for positive change. For the new academic year, I will be passing the EDI baton onto Miss Davison and her prefects, who I know will do a fantastic job at taking EDI at Kingswood forwards to new challenges and joys. Mrs Emma Brown EDI Lead

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | COMMUNITY & PARTNERSHIP

SUSTAINABILITY At Kingswood, we take a whole-school approach to sustainability, combining environmental action, student engagement, community partnerships, and long-term goals.

e have introduced projects aimed at reducing emissions across the school site, including improving waste management and exploring renewable energy solutions. The Kingswood Sustainability Club is a student group that helps shape and lead environmental initiatives. This year, Year 13 Sustainability Prefect Jim P led the group brilliantly, getting involved in projects such as food waste reduction, composting schemes, and presenting school assemblies to bring awareness to these campaigns. The group have also represented the School at regional environmental events, such as the Youth Climate Summit, and the BANES Climate Conference, which this year explored the theme “Small Changes Make a Big Difference.”

TREE PLANTING INITIATIVE Our 120-acre school site provides opportunities for habitat enhancement. Over the past four years, Kingswood School has developed an ambitious and expanding tree planting project, with over 500 trees now established across the site. This ongoing initiative has been made possible through continued support and generous tree donations from the Woodland Trust, enabling us to significantly enhance biodiversity across our grounds. The environmental impact of the project has been wide-ranging. It has supported the replacement of trees lost to ash dieback, strengthened local ecosystems, and contributed meaningfully towards our wider commitment to becoming net zero. Many of the trees are now well established and thriving, with fruit trees beginning to mature and successfully producing pears.

Beyond the environmental benefits, the project has played an important role in bringing the school community together. Large-scale planting days have involved over 100 students at a time, with the boarding community working collaboratively outdoors to support a shared goal of environmental restoration and sustainability. This work is closely linked to the curriculum and wider student experience at Kingswood. In Year 9 Geography, students study The Living World as part of the GCSE curriculum, exploring ecosystems, food webs, and the importance of afforestation in maintaining ecological balance and supporting biodiversity. These real-life planting projects help students to connect classroom learning with practical action and a deeper understanding of environmental change. In addition, Year 9 students take part in our Global Goals programme, a series of project-based learning experiences focused on addressing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We look forward to continuing this important work in partnership with the Woodland Trust as the trees mature and the long-term impact of the project continues to grow across the school site.

COMMUNITY & PARTNERSHIP | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

BISMUN 2026

In March, Kingswood hosted the 35th Bath International Schools’ Model United Nations conference, welcoming around 350 students representing 70 UN member states.

ver two days, delegates debated a range of global issues including the conflicts in Sudan and Ukraine, LGBTQ rights, US actions in Venezuela, the Israel– Palestine dispute, climate change and gene-editing technologies. Model United Nations conferences simulate the work of the United Nations, with students representing different countries and debating international issues in committees before proposing and voting on solutions. The conference opened with a ceremony led by Secretary Generals Sophie S and Daisy W, who delivered thoughtful and compelling addresses. Sophie spoke about the importance of international cooperation in tackling global challenges, while Daisy reflected on the dangers of indifference to injustice. Their speeches set the tone for a weekend of serious and engaging debate. Following the ceremony, delegates began lobbying to build support for their resolutions. Saturday was devoted to committee debates on the conference topics, before Sunday’s emergency scenarios challenged delegates to respond to unexpected global crises,

including a supervolcanic eruption in Indonesia and a Chinese invasion of Taiwan. The conference concluded with a General Assembly debate on the crisis in the Middle East. Kingswood’s Malawi delegation - Tanwen, Finlay, Tom, George, Cass and Eleanor - enjoyed a successful conference, with several delegates receiving awards for their committee work. Particular recognition should be given to the 35 Kingswood sixth formers who chaired committees with great professionalism. Head chairs Daisy, Sophie, Tom TH, Darren, Ferdie, Elfriede, Ethan, Oscar and Tom G were especially impressive. A final word of thanks goes to Mr Woodgate, whose impeccable organisation of BISMUN has spanned more than 25 years. As he passes the baton to Mr Newbould for the 2027 conference, we extend our sincere gratitude for his unwavering dedication, invaluable support, and the lasting contribution he has made to BISMUN over the years. His commitment has helped shape the conference into what it is today, and his legacy will continue to be felt for many years to come.

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | SCHOOL LIFE

SIXTH FORM PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE Students are well supported at Kingswood in exploring their career options and nurturing their aspirations.

efore they reach Sixth Form, younger students learn about careers in their PSHE lessons and are encouraged to start thinking about what careers interest them and what skills or experience they need. They also look at topics such as how AI may impact the working world and gender stereotyping. In the Autumn term of Year 11, students also receive a personalised guidance session to focus their thoughts on A Level choices, alongside support with their university and career options. In addition, Head of Careers Mrs Longland, a Level 6 qualified careers professional, offers drop-in sessions every week to students in Years 11-13 who want advice on their future plans. Every June, our Year 12s have a week dedicated to undertaking work experience. In the run-up to this, students

are invited to one-to-one meetings with Mrs Longland who helps them to make connections in those fields. Students also enjoy a number of employability skills workshops throughout the year and, often in collaboration with local schools, students attend networking events to speak to professionals from a wide range of industries, including local business owners, parents, and Old Kingswoodians. These valuable events give students an opportunity to ask questions and hear about different career paths whilst developing their networking skills. Mrs Longland also works with academic departments who offer guest speakers and trips for students with specific

LIFE SKILLS Much of the Year 13 Life Skills lessons focus on independence and preparedness for leaving home, and this year students came together for a special and highly engaging Q&A session with Kingswood’s Head Chef Tami Fairlie and Executive Chef Adrian Fairlie. The session offered students valuable, real-world insight into life away from home, with practical advice on essential kitchen equipment, food safety, and budgeting for meals. Students were also treated to a demonstration of some impressive knife skills, which a couple of our brave students attempted to replicate. The opportunity to ask questions and hear directly from experienced professionals made the learning both meaningful and memorable.

interests in a field, such as the DTE trip to Airbus, where students get real-world experience of companies in different industries, and meet experts in their fields. For those planning to pursue Oxbridge entrance or Medicine and Veterinary pathways, specialist support is available at Kingswood from Mr Allchorne (Head of Vet/Medical) and Mr Chua (Head of Oxbridge). We also regularly welcome Mike Nicholson, current Director of Recruitment, Admissions and Participation at the University of Cambridge, who delights our students and parents with his engaging and frank assessment of the higher education landscape.

SCHOOL LIFE | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

MIDDLE SCHOOL (YEARS 9-11) A NEW SOCIAL SPACE This year, our team of tradesmen did a terrific job in converting the Middle School girls’ locker rooms into a wonderful new common room space for all students in the Middle School to enjoy. As part of the same project, the Upper House boys’ common room was enlarged and given a complete makeover. It has been great to have this additional indoor space for our boys and girls to socialise together.

YEAR 10 & 11 CHRISTMAS BALL The annual Year 10 and 11 Christmas Ball brought sparkle and celebration to the school calendar once again.

YEAR 9 TEAM-BUILDING

Students arrived in their finest attire, with elegant dresses and sharp dinner jackets creating a truly festive and glamorous atmosphere. Following a delicious two-course meal, freshly prepared in house, guests made their way to the dance floor in the theatre foyer where Year 12 student Alex B kept the energy high with his excellent DJing. With over £600 raised for charity, and the impeccable behaviour of our students, the evening was a tremendous success and a brilliant start to the festive season.

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | SCHOOL LIFE

LOWER SCHOOL WESTWOOD AND BEACONFIELD

This year seems to have rocketed by and, along the way, so many wonderful things have taken place.

e have enjoyed numerous fundraising events driven by tutor groups and individuals; tutor groups have hosted afternoon teas for members of our local elderly community; we have strengthened our outreach links with Selwood Academy through initiatives such as the Year 7 John Wesley Day; and we have taken part in a vast number of sporting fixtures and educational visits. Our leadership programme has continued to go from strength to strength, and a huge thank you must go to Mrs Curtis, Miss Griffith and the Westwood Leaders. Following a comprehensive training programme, they took on leadership roles within the House in many different guises, including creating a Book Nook, setting up a girls' football activity, leading tours, welcoming visitors and, most importantly, leading by example through their behaviour and support for others in Westwood. We look to our next Year 8 cohort to continue this fine tradition.

Throughout the year, alongside all of the fixtures played against other schools, we have also run our InterHouse competition programme. It is becoming noticeably more difficult to break records due to the quality of the existing performances, so congratulations to Ben C, who broke the U12 discus record with a throw of 19.34 metres. The winners of the Year 7 Inter-House Athletics competition were Phoenix, while Mulberry claimed victory in Year 8. Overall, the Sports Day champions were Mulberry. In the overall House competition, the Autumn term sports of girls' hockey and boys' rugby belonged to Phoenix, and at the end of the term things were looking decidedly one-sided. However, Mulberry fought back during the Spring term, excelling in boys' hockey and girls' netball, and ended the term with a one-point advantage over Phoenix. As the Summer term progressed, it remained incredibly close. At the end of the final week, both Houses

were tied on 15.5 points for the term. This meant that, in the final reckoning as the three terms are added together, Phoenix once again emerged as House Champions for 2026. As always, our musicians were busy performing in so many aspects of school life: concerts, choirs, assemblies, the Abbey Choir and more, both in and out of school. In Drama, we won't forget the exceptional performances of so many students in the incredibly demanding school production of The Addams Family. It was a thoroughly enjoyable evening, showcasing a very talented, and sizeable, cast. The countless hours of rehearsals that make these music and drama performances look so polished are truly impressive. In the classroom, Westwood students continued to excel. Congratulations to Mrs Curtis’s Year 7 tutor group and Mrs Waring’s Year 8 tutor group who finished top of the Westwood Tutor Group Rewards League by the end of year with 863 and 694 merits respectively between them – an outstanding achievement. There are so many things that happen every day at Kingswood that it is easy for the truly remarkable to become part of everyday life and, as a result, sometimes go unnoticed. My final word, therefore, is one of thanks. Thank you to all the tutors, teachers, parents and support staff in their various roles, without whom none of the above would be possible. Equally importantly, thank you to all of the Westwood students. Your willingness to tackle every challenge with good humour, determination and resilience has made Westwood the wonderful and memorable place it has been this year. Mr Steve Pentreath Head of Lower School

SCHOOL LIFE | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

YEAR 7

YEAR 8

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | SCHOOL LIFE

FONTHILL HOUSE As I reflect on the year that has passed, I remain in awe of how incredibly talented and committed our Fonthill students are.

hey never fail to impress me with their positivity, determination, and their ability to lift and encourage those around them. Fonthill House is a wonderful place to be, surrounded by all the students who make Fonthill what it is – in the words if the students themselves – ‘a kind and happy House’. The achievements of our students (Fonthillians!) are supported by an experienced and dedicated team: Deputy Houseparent Lizzy Ward, Resident Assistant Houseparent Fiona Wight, the hard-working Fonthill tutors, our duty staff Hannah Jenkins and Vicki Coate, and Chloe and Karen, our Fonthill Matrons. Thank you also to the Fonthill parents, we never take your unwavering support for granted and it really is a pleasure to work alongside you as we guide your children towards their goals. A special mention must go to Angie, Florence T’s mum, for her generous seasonal flower displays – my personal favourite was when Easter eggs and the Easter bunny made an appearance! The leadership shown by our Year 13 students this year has been wonderful to see. Lucia and Ella S have been energetic and inspirational as Head and Deputy Head of House, Kunmi

has been an exceptional Head of Boarding, and Ella C and Janice have contributed much in their Deputy Head of School and EDI roles. Our wonderful team of Senior Prefects have also given their time so generously during house prefect duties. Year 12 led the Fonthill charity effort by organising the Kingswood fundraising institution that is ‘Candy Canes’. They created a very well-received promotional video and raised over £1000 for Papyrus and Save The Children. Year 13s Sophie S and Daisy W also showed inspirational leadership as chairs in this year’s BISMUN conference.

There have been many drama- and music-related achievements this year, starting with House Performance in September. Fonthill won the ensemble with an accomplished and moving performance of Adele’s ‘Chasing Pavements’. Strong leadership was demonstrated by Lucia and Ella S, and fantastic effort and determination was displayed by Fonthill students. Sophie L, Lucia, Emily H, Daisy W, Matilda, Katy, Aimee and Charlotte M wowed us with their contributions to the senior production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, whilst Celeste was wonderful in the junior

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production of The Addams Family. Emily H, Daisy W, Sophie L and Lucia were also worthy winners at this year’s KATS awards. Over the course of the year, House Colours were awarded to Nish, Sophie L, Lola, Emily B, Iris G, Katie, Charlotte, Harriet, Iris P, Jasvika, Indie, Junita, Daisy W and Matilda. It was very challenging to whittle down candidates for the three end-of-year House awards: The Sergeant Leadership Award was awarded to Lucia for her inspirational House leadership, whilst the Wright Way Award, in recognition of a student who has trodden the 'Wright' path by seeing what needs to be done before being asked and acting with humility without seeking the limelight, went to Matilda. The peer-voted Lewis Trophy (Spirit of Fonthill) Award was won by Nayo this year for her inclusivity and near-constant smile. Fonthill also won the House Reward League at Christmas and in the Summer term! The Fonthill house spirit was evidenced in all its glory in the sporting arena: the September House Hockey matches saw a fantastic turnout and a Year 10 team win. The March House Netball matches saw a Year 9 team win for both the A and B teams, with Rosie awarded player of the match. The Year 10 netball team saw the B team achieve a fantastic 2nd place, with the A team being awarded 1st place, and Fig awarded player of the match. Edie, Lola, Lois, Olivia, Iris P and Lottie helped to win the Tier 2 National Hockey League and had an amazing experience. Masha was awarded tennis captain, Connie was awarded netball captain and Poppy C-D is a GB ultimate frisbee player who has captained the WUF U20s open team. The following Fonthillians put in an excellent performance for the House Cross Country on a blustery March afternoon: Izzy T came 2nd in the Senior Girls and both Poppy C-D and Matilda came in the top 20. Rebecca won the Inter Girls, Sasha came 4th, Fig 9th and Lily, Lottie, Issy D and Iris P came in the top 20. The Inters came first in the team results. Congratulations to Rebecca, Fig, Lois, Lily, Emma, Esme, Matilda, Izzy T, Swasi, Harriet, Charlotte and Emily B for their spirited House Cross Country Relay performances in April. The sporting year was capped by a spirited performance during Sports Day. I always wonder how next year will top this one but somehow it always manages to. For now, it is time for a well-deserved rest in the sunshine, giving much needed time to recharge before another amazing year. Well done, Fonthill. Ms Amy Webb, Senior Houseparent

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | SCHOOL LIFE

HALL HOUSE

Another splendid year for Hall House!

rom the very start of the year, Hall House erupted with energy and spirit. The buzz of the first major event – House Performance – was instant. Our rendition of 'Chasing Pavements' had the entire audience on their feet and we were yet again victorious. It was a brilliant way to kickstart the year and reminded us of the joy that comes from performing together. Sadly we were yet again robbed of the Performance category, but it was a great way to welcome new faces and bond again as a House after the long summer. On the rugby pitch, Hall had another dominant presence with six boys in the 1st XV line-up, and the team had an 83% win rate, helped by an excellent preseason. Jack and Euan took centre stage and Max joined the fray this year, who all also proudly represented Bath. Seb and Jack stood out as the top try scorer and top point scorer, respectively. The 1st XV boys secured a famous win at the West of England 7s and also won the plate at the Gordon 7s. A special mention has to go to the U14Bs who went unbeaten this season with a 151-point difference. Only Year 9 played House matches this year, but Hall came out of this victorious. Hockey has been another highlight for Hall House with six boys representing the 1st XI. Vivaan, Mathis, Tom and Ernie were integral to the team, and Year 11 Sawan impressed hugely. The 1st XI cup run was also a highlight, helped by Olly’s impressive goalkeeping, and the U15A team reached the National Plate Final, with Nisek and Sam being standout players. In House Hockey, Year 9

came out on top, beating both Upper and Middle in strong displays, whilst the Senior team showed determination, drawing against Middle and narrowly losing to Upper 1-0. Throughout, Hall’s competitive spirit and sense of teamwork shone through. We also celebrated Ferdie as he captained the cross country team impressively throughout the season and played an important role in helping the relay teams secure victories. Ed, Euan and Ben all competed well at the national relay swimming event which was highly competitive. Euan also won gold in the U17 Men’s 800m at the England Athletics Indoor Championships as well as gold at the Welsh U20 Championships. It is truly impressive to be running in higher age groups at such a competitive level. Football added to the packed sporting calendar and Hall players were involved across all year groups. Theo, Seb and Vivaan represented the 1st XI football team very well this term, assisting in Kingswood’s best ever cup run in the Somerset cup. Meanwhile, Ten Tors training got underway, with four training hikes including challenging Dartmoor expeditions. The commitment from all involved in the training events was excellent and it was Nisek, Felix and Ernie who made the final teams. Numerous Hall boys also took part at all levels of DofE and it was great to see them rise to these challenges. Special mention goes to Harry for being the third

generation in his family to be awarded Gold DofE at the Palace this summer. Beyond the sports pitches, the academic sphere was equally impressive with Hall students excelling in UK subject challenges. Tom chaired Kingswood’s Model United Nations with professionalism, supported by many others in the House. We had two STEM competitions this year: VEX, involving Tom, Sam, Charles, and the junior team of Just, Theo, Michael and Naruaki got to nationals with their robots and at the F1, Thomas and Sam got to Regionals. Elsewhere, at the National Maths finals, we had Isane, Mathijs and Hinata who all competed solidly. For the second year in a row, Isane achieved the exceptional feat of winning the European Informatics Olympiad, placing him among the top young coders in Europe, and earning him a place to compete in the World Championships over the summer. His Mathematical Olympiad distinction further highlights his place among the UK’s very best and we wish him well on his journey towards Cambridge alongside Tom. The creative talent of Hall House boys also flourished this year. While the boarders didn’t win the bake-off weekend, the coursework displayed in the Art & DTE exhibition looked superb. In Drama, Ellis, Sam, Milo, Ollie and Woody all shone in their roles in the senior production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, and James wowed the audience with his fantastic lighting design. The Summer term brought the The Addams Family where Tanaka played Gomez brilliantly with other parts for Finbar. Our musicians were also centre-stage at the Spring Concert, lunchtime recitals, and chapel services throughout the year as well as huge representation of every year group in the Kingswood Jazz Orchestra at Party in the City. Congratulations also go to Theo who won a choral scholarship at Bath Abbey this year. We also won big at KATS with seven nominations and

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two winners: Max for Musos’ Muso and James for Techies’ Techie. Charity and community initiatives have been a vibrant part of Hall life. The House Colour Run raised over £600 for the Teenage Cancer Trust. Everyone’s enthusiasm on the day – under blue skies and clouds of colour – captured the joyful spirit of the school at the end of the year. The Night Run earlier in the year also added more to the fundraising efforts this year. Summer brought sunshine, sport and more success. Hall boys played key roles in the 1st XI cricket team and tennis squads, while Euan and Noah excelled again on the athletics track, and we will be watching Euan’s progress towards Commonwealth Games qualification carefully. Sports Day was a triumph: Hall came second overall with Fonthill and we gained the most points as an individual house thanks to incredible participation and standout performances from everyone who competed. Particular note goes to Nisek who broke a long-standing discus record for a second year in a row and to Euan for his fantastic performance beating long-standing records in the

1500m and 400m, and now holds all middle- and long-distance records; we look forward to hearing how the Nationals go this summer. Prize Giving was a proud moment with over 27 Hall boys receiving individual awards and 84 being highly commended. It was wonderful to see so much effort and excellence recognised across academics, sport, and contribution to school life, and showcases Hall boys and all the efforts they put in throughout school life. In our final House Assembly, we said goodbye to the leavers – a group who have left their mark with humour, integrity and kindness. A huge thank you to our House leaders – Harry, Max, Kevin, Ferdie, James, Henry, Olly and Charlie – who have all helped so much throughout the year and we wish them well for the future. The Hall spirit has once again been forefront and present in every corner of school life. From performances and pitches to classrooms and community projects, Hall boys have acquitted themselves and volunteered to do everything with energy and purpose.

HOUSE AWARDS 2025-26 • Rugby: Jack W • Athletics: Euan S • Cricket: Mathijs IdR • Hockey: Olly C • Overall House Sport: Tom S • Hero Award: Euan Mc • Champion Award: Harry W • House Colours: Max L, Kevin L

We have celebrated the end of each term with ice-skating, dodgeball and most recently the summer fun and BBQ, each a huge celebration after much hard work. As we say goodbye to some and others take up the responsibility of leading the House, Hall is in great health, and I am so proud of all the boys for making it so special to be a part of.

Mr Barney Brown Senior Houseparent

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | SCHOOL LIFE

SUMMERHILL HOUSE It has been wonderful to see the Summerhill students (Summerhillians!) flourishing this year.

he House has been led fantastically by Emmy and Emily who have been outstanding as the Head and Deputy of Summerhill, whilst Rachel P has been a wonderful Head of Boarding. The teamwork, hard work, creativity and energy they have all put into their roles has been exemplary. I have been constantly and capably supported by my team of tutors, each one of whom has gone the extra mile without complaint for their tutees. Special thanks must go to Miss Hawthorne for being my resident assistant, co-parenting the 50 boarders with me, whilst Miss Jenkins has been a brilliant Deputy Houseparent to the whole House, supporting with planning events, pastoral support and the general smooth running of everything. And of course, we wouldn’t

have managed without our fantastic and inspiring team of matrons: Jayne, Caroline, Sarah and Les. We said a farewell to Jayne and Caroline who have been committed, hard-working, caring and joyful matrons over many, many years! They are now entering their very well deserved retirement; we will remember their mantra ‘use it, or lose it’ and I know they will be greatly missed, particularly their spritely and friendly Monday morning greetings! We hit the ground running in September with the House Performance competition – alongside Middle House, over 100 students sang and danced their hearts out to ‘Umbrella’ by Rhianna, creatively choreographed by Emily F and led brilliantly by Emmy and Emily – it was a very well deserved win and in

keeping with our 4-year streak! This was followed by all manner of House sporting competitions with our indomitable Year 9 and 10 hockey players – special shout outs to Pippa F, Elspeth, and to our swimmers, Maryam, Risako, Emily B and Lucy T, who competed brilliantly for Summerhill. We had many musicians in Summerhill performing in lunchtime, charity and scholars’ concerts, assemblies and school services, and some who performed out of school as well – we are so proud of Amy, Ella, Maya S, Emily H, Millie, Sunday, Tanwen and Greta, as well as Evie, Tansy, Matilda T, and Ava C. Regarding individual sporting achievements, we are all in awe of Hannah G who represents GB in synchronised swimming, this year moving up to the U18 team. She is on an incredible trajectory and we congratulate her for juggling such high level sporting achievements alongside doing her GCSEs. We are also proud of Ava-Grace B who has earned a place to play football with Bristol Rovers – she has also juggled great discipline and commitment alongside exam preparation in a commendable way. We also love hearing about Tilly’s cheerleading, Phia’s rowing and coxing and Emily F’s ballet. We celebrate Amy M’s fantastic running achievements and Flora O and Immy H-B's successes in tennis, too.

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AWARDS JULY 2026 Full of confidence – Miji and Emily F Loving – Bella F and Lollo Ownership – Immy P and Angela Z Unique – Amy and Maryam Reflective – Maya S and Evi Integrity – Risako and Csenge Service – Jewel and Vera Humility – Renissa and Iris

HOUSE AWARDS • Good Egg – Rachel P, Candice B • Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious –

Emmy L and Emily H • FLOURISH – Alena Y, Evelyn L • Perseverance – Abi E • Dragon Award for Sport – Emmy T

Summerhill is known for its kindness and outward-looking nature and we are proud ambassadors of charity work, both through fundraising and involvement with the Social Justice group and other local endeavours. Summerhill often leads the way with cake sales and this year we were also very present in supporting the Grand Jumble Sale which raised over £2000 for Beyond Ourselves, a literacy charity making a huge impact in Zambia and who some students visited this summer. We also led the way in getting the whole school to collect items for the Genesis Trust before Christmas to support people through the winter months. We are grateful for the links with this inspiring charity as well as with The Life Project who we do

gardening with at their allotment and in the Summerhill garden, working together with adults with learning disabilities. A few Summerhillians set up their own fundraising initiatives too, notably for the Beyond Ourselves charity – Isla, Emmy T, Eleanor and Molly as well as Tanwen who completed a New Year’s swim! We always aim to have maximum fun with our House Assemblies and Boarding House family times. We enjoy a huge range of crafts, sports, games and cooking. Notable and memorable ones this year were the compulsory ultimate frisbee sessions, making mocktails, water fights and of course the Christmas stocking creations and the huge traditional Christmas party

for the boarders. We are in awe of Jewel and Vera who have won the Boarders’ bake off competition every year in Summerhill, making it their 4th year in a row this year! We finished the year off with a very successful Sports Day, winning alongside Middle House. A few school records were broken: by two of our relay teams as well as Elspeth and Bella N breaking records in their individual events. We then celebrated in style with a BBQ and slip and slide in the sun – a sociable and memorable end to a fantastic year of activities, achievements, kindness and fun! Mrs Monica Lopez Senior Houseparent

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | SCHOOL LIFE

MIDDLE HOUSE As we say farewell to another vintage year, Middle House has much to look back on with pride and fondness.

he Autumn term began with the ever-popular House Performance. This year's theme was 'Umbrella' by Rihanna, with Middle once again joining forces with Summerhill. Their energetic and entertaining performance was enough to secure victory, making it a memorable start to the year and a fantastic way to bring the two houses together. The rugby season saw another excellent representation from Middle House, particularly at 1st XV level. Rory T, Henry, Charlie H-B and Rowan all received Full Colours. Their commitment and performances throughout the season reflected the strength of rugby within the House and set an excellent example for the younger boys. As Christmas approached, the annual ice-skating trip alongside Summerhill once again proved to be a highlight of the term. While there were plenty of cautious laps around the rink, Andrew and Chris D continued to impress everyone with their trademark grace and confidence on the ice. The Spring term brought success across a number of sports. Middle boys once again featured prominently in the

HOUSE AWARDS • Middle House Man of the Year: Harvey and Bizen • Endeavour Awards: Alfie, Adam and Tom B • Sportsman of the Year: Tom B • Artist of the Year: Fin B

football programme, making valuable contributions to both senior teams. Charlie H was particularly noteworthy in leading the 1st XI on an excellent cup run. On the hockey pitch, the school enjoyed another strong year under the leadership of Alfie, who captained the 1st XI with distinction. Reaching the National Cup Semi-Finals was a tremendous achievement, with both Alfie and Tom B being awarded Full Colours at the end of the season. Cross country also produced excellent performances, with Charlie H claiming victory in the House Cross Country race, while Tom W secured a well-earned podium finish. It was another reminder of the depth of sporting talent across

the House. Away from the playing fields, we were delighted to hear that so many of our Year 13 students had secured offers from leading universities. A special mention must go to Ivor, who received an offer to study Natural Sciences at Cambridge – a thoroughly deserved reward for his hard work and dedication throughout his time at Kingswood. Adam R also received the excellent news that he had been awarded a Royal Navy Scholarship, which will support him during his studies at the University of Bristol. The Bake Off once again provided an opportunity for the boarders to showcase their culinary creativity. Whilst the results varied considerably

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in both appearance and taste, the event was enjoyed by all and remains one of the highlights of the boarding calendar. The Summer term brought another busy conclusion to the year. At Sports Day, Mide and Joshua G produced outstanding performances to help Middle secure victory, with strong displays across the track and field, contributing to an excellent team effort. Cricket also provided one of the moments of the summer when Year 10 student Tobias, playing regularly for the 1st XI, produced a magnificent innings of 93 against the MCC. It was a superb knock that fell agonisingly short of a century – and with it, the coveted free day at Lord's – but it remains one of the standout sporting achievements of the year. Equally impressive were the contributions of our Year 11 cricketers, who established themselves in the 1st XI throughout the season. Teddy finished as the side's leading wicket-taker, while James recorded the highest batting average, highlighting the exciting strength and depth of cricket within the House. As always, the final weeks of the year provided an opportunity to celebrate the many achievements of our leavers. The Year 13 students have been outstanding role models, contributing enormously to the life of the House through their commitment, kindness and enthusiasm. They leave Middle House in a strong position, and we wish them every success in the next stage of their journeys. Finally, my thanks go to all of the tutors, matrons and boarding staff for their continued support throughout another busy year. Their dedication does so much to make Middle House the welcoming and successful community that it is. Thank you also to all of the boys, whose enthusiasm, humour and willingness to get involved has made 2025/26 another year to remember. We now look forward to welcoming a new group of boys into Middle House in September and building on the many successes of another outstanding year. Mr Steven Smyth, Senior Houseparent

...to all the boys, whose enthusiasm, humour and willingness to get involved has made 2025/26 another year to remember.

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | SCHOOL LIFE

SCHOOL HOUSE It has been another brilliant year for School House; the girls continue to impress me with their talent, character and enthusiasm.

he Autumn term began in typically energetic fashion, with House Performances of ‘Fix You’ and ‘Domino’ impressing the judges who remarked on the excellent choreography and striking aesthetics. September also saw Year 9 travel to Rest Bay for our annual team-building surf trip. Despite the chilly conditions, spirits remained high and the waves proved ideal for an introduction to surfing. It was wonderful to watch the girls embrace the challenge and even more impressive to see so many successfully standing on their boards by the end of the session. There were plenty of House events towards the end of term, with House Hockey providing one of the first opportunities for students to represent their House. Both the Year 9 and 10 teams performed exceptionally well, securing second-place finishes and demonstrating impressive teamwork throughout. In the Senior matches, the competition remained close right up until the final fixture against Summerhill, with School House eventually finishing second overall. Standout performances came from Rosie R, Maddie W and Rosie T.

Success on the hockey pitch continued with a Friday Night Lights charity hockey match organised by Eva, made even more memorable by the inflatable pig outfits! School and Upper were crowned champions and over £300 was raised for Movember. The Malawi Christmas Fair provided another opportunity to raise money for charity, with School House running a popular Sweet Pong stall. This stood proudly alongside Issy’s homemade school merchandise stand, which raised over £400. Miss Evans’ tutor group also organised a bake sale in support of Crisis, which proved a great success. Christmas always provides an opportunity for festive fun. We spent an enjoyable evening at Bath on Ice with Upper House before preparations for the annual Gingerbread Competition. Year 9 and 10 both received Highly Commended awards for their entries, but the eventual winners were Mrs Prowse’s tutor group with their imaginative “Gym-ger Bread” creation, which Mr Matthews was particularly taken with. The Easter term was equally busy and saw School House continue to thrive both on and off the sports field. House Netball produced some excellent performances across all year groups. The Year 10 B team were particularly impressive, securing first place overall, with Sophia D earning Player of the Match. The Senior A team were also victorious, with outstanding contributions from Laura M and Georgia G. Other notable POM awards went to

Pippa C, Evie W and Georgia F, reflecting the strength and depth of talent throughout the House. International Women’s Day provided an opportunity for reflection. Eva, Elise and Issy organised a sisterhood activity in which tutor groups researched women who had inspired them. The spirit of discussion continued during House Debates, which explored the motion, “This House would abolish the Monarchy.” Florence B and Pippa G spoke eloquently and the Senior team ultimately were declared winners. Pink Week was undoubtedly one of the highlights of the year. School House raised an impressive £911.46 for Breast Cancer UK and Dorothy House, with Year 11 taking the lead and raising £229. House Ents took place in the theatre, where the leadership teams from Upper and School hosted our annual quiz, including the revealing “Whose fridge is this?” round. The final day of Pink Week concluded with House Cross Country, once again testing endurance and determination. Armed with face paint, pink tutus and plenty of House spirit, School House took on the demanding course with characteristic enthusiasm. Congratulations must go to everyone who completed the race, particularly Elena H, who secured first place in the Seniors, and Sofia S, who finished third. In the Inters race, Eve J achieved second place while Rachel M finished close behind in 3rd. The Seniors won the

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overall cup, while the Inters finished a close second, missing out on victory by just two points! The Summer term arrived quickly and with it a competitive Easter Egg Hunt across the school grounds. Congratulations to Mrs Andell’s tutor group, who completed the challenge in just over 5 minutes! In House Relays the senior team of Sofia S, Maddie W and Elena H not only won their race but also set a new course record, while the Inter team of Rachel M, Rose W and Hattie P were the first complete team to cross the finish line. Another highlight was seeing so many School House students take on the renowned Ten Tors Challenge. Beth, Amber and Eve were all selected for this prestigious event, with Eve also appointed team captain. The resilience and dedication shown by all involved was exemplary. KATS provided an opportunity to celebrate performance across Kingswood and it was fantastic to see eleven School House students nominated, with Kitty receiving the Year 10 Rising Star Award for Drama. Sports Day provided a fitting celebration of athletic success and House spirit, with School House crowned overall Girls’ House champions following excellent participation and performances across both track and field events. House Ents rounded off the year with a barbecue and inflatables before a final evening together with our Year 13 students. As I reflect on the year, it has once again been a privilege to support and lead School House. I wish all the leavers every success and happiness for the future; I know they will all go on to thrive in whatever they choose to do next. The most enormous thanks must go to our leadership team this year: Eva, Elise and Issy. They have led with grace, conviction, kindness and strength, serving as exceptional role models for younger students. In their leaving speech they perfectly captured the spirit of School House: “Choose to build each other up. Celebrate each other’s successes. Be the reason someone feels more confident, not less. The strongest communities aren’t built by everyone being the same; they’re built by people choosing to support one another.” Their words embody everything that makes School House such a special place and they have left behind a legacy on which to build next year.

Mrs Sarah Musgrove, Senior Houseparent

HOUSE AWARDS • Spirit of School House: Elena H • Jackie Reeman Sunshine Award: Rosie R • Pave the Right Way: Ruth P

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UPPER HOUSE It’s been another whirlwind year in Upper House, and time flies when you’re having fun!

e welcomed a new team of Senior prefects who have built on the work of those that have gone before and done it in their way. George and Ed have been superreliable deputies and Jimmy has led from the front, in his own inimitable style! We also had one change to the House tutor team with the addition of Mr Christie who has made a great impression in his first year at Kingswood. One of the key premises of the Upper ethos is to ‘get involved’ and it’s been so pleasing to see how the boys have thrown themselves into all that Kingswood has to offer. It began with a great turn out at House Performance and a memorable rendition of ‘Domino’ alongside School House, clearly the crowd favourite (despite what the judges thought!). As ever, the House has got fully behind the school-wide charity initiatives. There were great contributions to Bath Foodbank, and Upper House again led the way through Movember, thanks in no small measure to Year 11 Charlie’s incredible effort, who raised over £1000 on his own! Mr East launched the Blood Donation campaign, as he and Mr Lehmann accompanied six of the prefect team to Bath Racecourse to donate; this was a great initiative which is certain to grow over the coming years. Charlie in Year 13 organised and hosted a Charity Concert, well supported by some Upper musicians and vocalists, which built on the excellent work he

has been doing in support of Children’s Hospice South West. In the Summer term, the annual ‘Upperfest’ had even greater meaning this year as we were raising money in support of one of our own: last year’s Deputy Head of House received a cancer diagnosis just before Christmas so all money raised this year went to support him in his recovery. It was no surprise, then, that all records were broken with over £3400 raised. He has been such an inspiration in the unfailingly positive way he has approached this challenge and it was great to hear that after a nearly 7-month battle, he was able to ring the bell, signifying the end of what has been some pretty gruelling treatment. Throughout the year, there were numerous contenders for the iconic Man of the Week award. In addition to some who have won the award previously, such as Rafael for his musicianship and Roger for his swimming, there were some firsttime Year 13 winners in Jack W for his rugby exploits and Jim P for his incredible work (and even more incredible assemblies) on the issue of sustainability. The most pleasing aspect of this award is the range of achievements that we presented it for: Maths Challenges, helping around the House, debating, kindness to others, volume of Merits and Commendations, volunteering, contributions to the Creative Writing anthology and many, many more. On the sports field, it was thrilling to see Stan W representing Bath U18s in the Rugby Premiership Final and Jack P excelling in the 7s season. George H won the 1st XI Player of the Season award for hockey, Ben B was awarded his Full Colours for football and Fred S had another stellar batting season, in a 1st XI cricket team captained by Ed A. In Drama, Kit H again played a leading role in the senior production of The Curious Dog in the Night-Time, whilst Matthew B, Freddie S M, Finlay B and Ted F were all key cast members in The Addams Family. In the music sphere,

Alexander K and Theo A have been great role models for the likes of our talented Year 10 musicians including Reggie, Jasper, Kit, Jackson and Indy.

Friday morning activities saw the usual array of silly challenges in our ‘Clans’, with the 6/7 quiz, Tug of War, and Egg and Spoon races all popular new additions this year (despite the questionable antics of ‘Clan &’!). Ice-skating, the Easter Quiz, and the Summer term inflatables were all again really enjoyable House Entertainment activities to end each term. As the year approached its conclusion, our Upper House leavers spoke warmly about each other as they shared some memories of their time at Kingswood in the company of the Upper tutors before the formal House goodbyes on the final morning of term. Jimmy, Ed and George summed up the year in great style and spoke so eloquently about their time in Upper and what the House has meant to them. I have been fortunate to have had some quite outstanding Heads of House since starting the job, but none has done it quite like Jimmy. His calm presence, and ‘off the wall’ sense of humour has endeared him to all and helped to make the House such a fun place to be this year. He will be greatly missed but has made his mark on Upper House, as have all of this group of Year 13s. They have great things ahead of them in whatever they choose for the next part of their journey. Mr James Brown Senior Houseparent

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HOUSE AWARDS • Upper House Sporting Legend – George H • Upper House Creativity King – Kit H • Spirit of Upper House – Alexander K

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | SCHOOL LIFE

BOARDING AT KINGSWOOD It has been another wonderful year for our boarders at Kingswood, filled with laughter, joy, friendships, and memories.

ith over 160 weekly and full-time boarders, our boarding community has enjoyed an actionpacked year. From baking to bowling, barbecues to Sibling Suppers, Boarders’ Got Talent, camping and zorbing, our boarders and houseparents have had a blast. Together, our boarders have embodied the Kingswood values of caring for others and seizing all the opportunities at school. We can’t wait to see what the next year brings!

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KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHTS

AN EXCEPTIONAL SET OF A LEVEL RESULTS We celebrated another excellent year of A Level and BTEC results, with the nearly 140-strong Class of 2026 achieving fantastic grades across the full range of A Level and BTEC subjects offered.

here was plenty to celebrate, with nearly half of all grades at A*-A and 79% awarded A*-B. These latest results mean that the School’s fiveyear A Level results average now stands at 82% A*-B. BTEC results were no less impressive with 89% of all grades at Distinction / Distinction*. One quarter of all students achieved a clean sweep of A*-A grades, with strong performances recorded across the breadth of science, humanities and creative arts; 14 departments saw more than 80% of grades at A*-B. The vast majority of Kingswood students are looking forward to starting at their first choice university on an exciting array of courses. All seven of Kingswood’s Oxbridge offers were secured, as were the eight offers for those who will be progressing to Medicine or Veterinary Science. Kingswood students will take up places at Russell Group or Times Top 20 universities, alongside prestigious performing arts and apprenticeship pathways. These results come hot on the heels of further external recognition for the School’s approach to education. Kingswood School was recently Highly Commended in the Independent School of the Year Awards, having previously won the Talk Education award for Thinking Beyond the Curriculum for our Advanced Elective Programme in its first year. For the second year running, Kingswood School received the Daily Telegraph’s Very Good Value rating, an accolade awarded to only three schools in Bath.

“It has been a great privilege to see this talented group of young people making their mark on the School and embracing all that Kingswood has to offer, growing into confident, compassionate and ambitious young adults. As they now move on to universities, apprenticeships, creative pathways and other exciting opportunities, I am confident that they are exceptionally well prepared for the next stage of their journey. I am immensely proud of them all and would like to thank our dedicated teachers for guiding and supporting them with such expertise throughout their Kingswood journey.” Andrew Gordon-Brown Headmaster

ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHTS | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

OUTSTANDING SUCCESS AT GCSE LEVEL We celebrated another year of outstanding GCSE and IGCSE results, with students achieving: • 45% of grades at Levels 9-8 • 69% of grades at Levels 9-7 • More than 1 in 5 students with straight 9-7 grades

here was a strong performance across the breadth of Kingswood’s curriculum, with 11 subjects recording more than 75% of grades at Levels 9-7: Biology, Chemistry, English Literature, Russian, Latin, Mandarin, Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics, Religious Studies and Spanish.

has contributed enormously to school life beyond the classroom, and it has been great to see them develop in confidence and take on new challenges during their time with us.”

Andrew Gordon-Brown, Headmaster of Kingswood, said: “I’m delighted for this year group and very proud of what they have achieved. These results reflect our students’ hard work and determination, as well as the commitment and support of their teachers, which is such a strong feature of our culture.

Alongside their academic achievements, the year group has made the most of the opportunities on offer at Kingswood. From starring roles in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time and completing their Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards, to fundraising and leading charity outreach in Zambia, students have embraced opportunities to develop their skills, confidence and interests beyond the classroom.

GCSEs are an important milestone, but they are only one part of a Kingswood education. This year group

With the vast majority of the year group set to continue their education at Kingswood, the next stage of their

journey includes a choice of 23 A Level subjects, the Advanced Electives Programme and a wide range of cocurricular, leadership and enrichment opportunities, alongside the recently refurbished Dixon Centre, a vibrant hub for study and socialising.

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHTS

ACROSS THE CURRICULUM Maths & Science Olympiads & Challenges Every year, many of our students choose to take on the fiendishly difficult online Olympiads and Challenges, pushing themselves beyond their academic comfort zones while testing their mathematical and scientific knowledge, problem-solving ability, and resilience. Set in unfamiliar and often novel contexts, the questions are designed to stretch students well beyond the confines of the curriculum, rewarding creativity, logical thinking, and perseverance.

STEM

As well as numerous other commendations and accolades, we are delighted to congratulate the following students, who achieved top awards this year across a selection of these prestigious challenges:

AWARD

RESULT

Maths Olympiad for Girls

Merit: Anju K, Nicole K, Claire T

Maths Competition for Girls

Merit: Laura M

Chemistry Olympiad

Gold: Ivor B, Rei H, Charlie W

Senior Maths Challenge

Gold: Sam H, Mathijs IdR, Hinata K, Anju K, Ryoga M, Ernie P, Akari T (Year 12); Rei H, Sam J, Evelyn L, Jim P, Adam R, Risako S, Isane S, George W (Year 13)

Senior Team Maths Challenge

Placed in National Final: Isane S, Rei H, Hinata K, Mathijs IdR

Senior Physics Challenge

Gold: Ernie P, Ethan W, Anju K, Ryoga M

Intermediate Biology Challenge

Silver: Monty S, William S, Finn W

Intermediate Maths Challenge

Gold: Isaac L, Erik B, Toby H, Viv Q (Year 10); Harry C, Josh T (Year 9); Ethan H (Year 8)

Year 10 National Scientific Thinking Challenge

Gold: Erik B, Isaac L, Sophia L, Rebecca L, Janu S, Fig W

KS3 British Physics Olympiad

Gold: Finn A, Abigail C, Ella B, James B, Seren J, Edward L, Fola O, Aashma R, Jacob R, Finley S, Ben W

Year 9 Biology Challenge

Silver: Theo D

Junior Maths Challenge

19 Golds: Edward L - Best Overall Result

Junior Maths Olympiad

Merit: Edward L

CREST Award (Junior Science Club)

Bronze: Gio D, Sophie G, Ashlesha G, Nimisha G, George L, Sophie P, Aashma R, Jacob R, Daisy S, Zaya T, Daipei Z

Medic & Vet Pathway Our Medic and Vet pathway provides additional support for our students, whether through Advanced Electives tailored to understanding the UCAT, choosing which medical school to apply to or bespoke reading lists and work experience advice. In combination with the very hard work of our students, this programme helps to secure very high offer and acceptance rates for our Medicine and Veterinary Science applicants. As part of this, each year we hold our Multiple Mini Interviews (MMI) evening, where aspiring Medicine and Veterinary Science students undertake practice interviews with parents and alumni from the medical, veterinary and research sectors. Across multiple 8-minute periods of interviews, covering topics varying from ethics to the NHS, to core attributes, students are able to practise and refine their skills in this crucial area. We were delighted this year to also welcome 19 students from local schools. Our thanks to those alumni and parents who give so generously of their time to support our students.

Isaac Science Senior Physics Challenge

Physics Olympiad

Congratulations to Anju K on being selected for the prestigious Isaac Science Senior Physics Challenge (SPC) summer school. The SPC is a highly regarded programme for Year 12 students across the UK, run in association with the University of Cambridge. Only 50 places are awarded nationally to students who have demonstrated outstanding commitment and ability in problem-solving through the Isaac Science platform. Anju’s selection for this competitive programme is a testament to her curiosity, perseverance, and passion for physics.

Two Year 7 teams enthusiastically represented Kingswood at the annual Physics Olympiad at Millfield School. Competing against students from other schools, they tackled four challenging events and took on a notoriously difficult Fermi quiz, which tests estimation and problem-solving skills. Team ‘Electron Volt’ and Team ‘Erg’ performed brilliantly, achieving an impressive 4th place overall and 2nd place in one of the challenges.

ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHTS | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

Mathematics Masterclass Series

University of Bath Workshops Our Year 12 Biology and Chemistry students enjoyed a range of engaging workshops at the University of Bath throughout the year. Biology students explored the therapeutic potential of chilli plants through hands-on activities including dissection, drug modelling and investigating how natural compounds can influence cancer cell biology, while also learning about Pharmacology degrees and careers in biomedical science and pharmaceutical research.

The Royal Institution is the oldest scientific institution in the world, established in 1799 for the purpose of communicating science to the general public. For over 40 years, the University of Bath has hosted Secondary Mathematics Masterclasses and this year, we were delighted to collaborate with the Ri and the University to host the first Bath Primary Masterclass series.

Chemistry students took part in practical Synthesis and Spectroscopy workshops in the university teaching laboratories, applying their laboratory skills in a real-world setting by extracting compounds, including aspirin, from a fictional drug ‘Bathenone’. Back at school, they also attended the Spectroscopy in a Suitcase workshop, the Chemistry of Christmas lecture and the Chemistry of Halloween event. In addition, Old Kingswoodians Henry Mc, Emily H and Lily B returned to share their experiences of studying Chemistry at university, with Henry also delivering a fascinating talk on the chemistry of batteries.

Learning Beyond the Classroom Our Science students benefited from a range of enriching educational visits throughout the year. Year 12 biologists visited Slimbridge Wetland Centre, where they developed ecological fieldwork skills by investigating plant diversity and wetland habitats while learning about conservation and biodiversity through interactive activities. Students from Years 11 and 12 enjoyed a visit to Airbus and Aerospace Bristol, gaining an insight into aerospace engineering and the wide variety of careers within the industry. Meanwhile, Year 12 Physics and Maths students visited Thorpe Park, using its rides to explore key concepts such as gravity, forces, speed and acceleration, bringing classroom theory to life through real-world engineering.

Science Week in the Roman Baths To celebrate the launch of British Science Week, students from our Mathematics Department joined Plymouth University at the “Science Busking” event at the Roman Baths. Around 1,500 visitors passed through the historic site, with whom Faisal E, Theo B and Emmy H enthusiastically engaged, showing how correlation can help solve real-world problems.

...a series of fun, hands on workshops that brought maths to life... The series welcomed local primary school students for a series of fun, hands on workshops that brought maths to life, delivered by University of Bath students and local teachers. Topics ranged from Code Breaking and Strategy Games to Crop Circles and the History of Mathematics. These masterclasses were supported each Saturday morning by our Kingswood Sixth Form Maths Ambassadors: Arthur P, Max C, Ethan W and Faisal E. We’re proud to play our part in this inspiring UK wide programme and to support local children as they discover the joy, challenge and beauty of mathematics.

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHTS

A Year of Innovation, Opportunity and Achievement

t has been another exceptional year for Computer Science at Kingswood, with students embracing opportunities that have taken them from the classrooms of Bath to the heart of Silicon Valley, while continuing to achieve success at the highest levels of competition.

The highlight of the year was undoubtedly our Computer Science study trip to California. Over the course of a week, students explored many of the places that have shaped the modern technology industry. From Stanford University and Apple Park to the Intel Museum and San Francisco's Exploratorium, students were able to see first-hand how the ideas they encounter in lessons are transformed into products and technologies used by millions of people around the world. Alongside the technology-focused visits, students experienced some of California's most famous landmarks, including Alcatraz, Fisherman's Wharf and The Golden Gate Bridge. The trip provided a valuable opportunity to see the scale of innovation taking place within the technology sector while also building friendships and creating memories that will last long after the final exam paper has been completed. Read more on page 92.

become a popular addition to the department and is helping students explore the fascinating intersection between computer science, data science, engineering and motorsport. Whether analysing telemetry data, discussing artificial intelligence in Formula One or simply enjoying some healthy competition, the simulator is providing a unique way of bringing technology to life. We are extremely grateful to Friends of Kingswood for making this possible.

Back at Kingswood, we have been delighted to expand the opportunities available to students through the installation of a new racing simulator, generously funded by Friends of Kingswood. The simulator has already

We are also particularly excited about a new outreach programme that will begin in 2026 through a partnership with the Hg Foundation. Through its STEM Horizons initiative, the Foundation is bringing together independent and state schools to improve access to high-quality Computer Science education and to inspire more young people to consider future careers in technology. The programme aims to raise attainment in GCSE Computer Science while broadening aspirations and opportunities for students from a wide range of backgrounds. Kingswood is proud to be part of this initiative and looks forward to working closely with partner schools across the region.

These achievements reflect what makes Computer Science at Kingswood so special. Whether students are competing internationally, exploring the world's leading technology companies, supporting outreach initiatives or applying their skills in entirely new contexts, they continue to demonstrate curiosity, ambition and a willingness to embrace challenge.

Individual student achievement has also been a source of great pride this year. We are delighted to congratulate Isane, who qualified for the European Olympiad in Informatics (EGOI). This prestigious international competition brings

As technology continues to transform our world, we remain committed to ensuring that Kingswood students are not simply consumers of technology, but creators, innovators and leaders within it. We look forward to another exciting year ahead.

together some of the most talented young programmers from across Europe and beyond to tackle challenging algorithmic and computational problems. Qualifying for the competition is a remarkable achievement and reflects not only exceptional technical ability but also determination, creativity and perseverance.

ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHTS | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

The Eye The Eye, this year’s new student-led History and Politics journal, is a celebration of the sharing of ideas across History and Politics. The journal reflects the passion, insight and intellectual curiosity of our students, bringing together thoughtful writing and diverse viewpoints, and is the culmination of months of planning, editing and collaboration between a team of Year 12s whose idea it was to create the journal. Essays in the first edition covered a wide range of topics and issues, from democracy and global governance to data access and voting rights.

Classics Chalke History Festival In June, Year 12 Historians visited the Chalke History Festival near Salisbury, enjoying talks from leading historians, demonstrations, artefacts and reenactments. Highlights included a talk on The American Revolution: Myth vs Reality, linking directly to their curriculum, and exploration of the festival bookshop.

Psychology Students have benefited from a rich programme of academic enrichment in Psychology. We welcomed Neil Atkin, who explored the importance of curiosity, effective questioning, teamwork and group dynamics, and Linda Blair, who spoke to Year 12 about neurodiversity and the potential overdiagnosis of autism and ADHD. Former parent Professor Edmund Keogh also visited to deliver a fascinating session on the psychology of pain, prompting students to consider how pain is perceived and whether it can be learned. Year 13 students attended the Tutor2U conference, where they developed key exam strategies and were praised for their eager contributions and collaborative approach among over 300 attendees. In addition, two students entered the Psychology Minds Underground Essay Competition, either designing their own research or tackling the question of whether personality traits remain stable over time.

Latin students enjoyed various trips this year. Year 10 visited the Roman Baths, learning about Georgian architecture on the way, whilst Year 12 visited sites in London including The British Museum, UCL and Hatchards booksellers. Classical Society continued to thrive, presenting an assembly this year to Lower School on Odysseus and the Cyclops. The inaugural Year 8 Latin competition was a fierce contest. Entries included a flashing Mount Olympus, a statue of Caecilius, a Elysian Fields terrarium, models of the Acropolis, the Colosseum, an erupting Mount Vesuvius, a mosaic tile cake, Persephone’s pomegranate, and a knitted Roman gladius pillow, to name just a few! However, it was Freddie B’s detailed tableau of Life in Pompeii that clinched the win.

Year 9 also enjoyed the challenge of producing Alexandrian inspired food, with the winning cake design going to Indie, Issie and Edie for their depiction of the island of Alexandria in the Mediterranean Sea, including the temple of Isis, the Library and several crocodiles!

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHTS

has been the government’s ENGLISH 2026 designated ‘National Year of Reading’.

his has been an initiative created in response to the Literacy Trust’s revelation of the huge drop in reading for pleasure in young people. This is something that concerns us too as educators, parents and keen readers! At Kingswood, we believe that reading for pleasure is essential for: our understanding of the world and each other; our own ability to express ourselves; and maintaining positive mental health. We read at the start of every English lesson, we make very good use of our amazing library and we have multiple reading challenges throughout the year. We want to celebrate all things ‘book’!

This year, for World Book Day, our PR took up the gauntlet thrown down by the PR two years ago and did an incredible job. They made quizzes and treasure hunts, they ran craft sessions, they dressed up and they made social media posts promoting reading. They also introduced an additional dress-up category of dressing as a genre. They really were our reading ambassadors. We are proud of every student who made the effort to dress up and show their love of reading. Our Anthology this year celebrated 100 years of A. A. Milne’s Winnie the Pooh the poetry theme was ‘Adventure’ and the prose section asked for a setting of a forest. We had a large number of brilliant entries and it was hard to choose the winning participants. We also had a range of stunning artwork submitted. We celebrated all of the brilliant creative work with a launch evening in the chapel with friends and parents. Year 12 students had a very literary day out in the summer. We visited ‘Fox, Finch and Tepper’ (Mr B’s publishing arm) where Nic Bottomley talked passionately about the future of paper books and real bookshops. We toured around the magical workshop of Bayntun’s book bindery, learning how a book is bound from scratch and marvelling at the imagination and craftsmanship that

goes into a traditionally bound book. And finally we learned all about the life of Jane Austen at the Jane Austen centre (and, of course, did some dressing up). Shakespeare Society took a very enjoyable trip to London to see a production of ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ at The Globe – where one of the group found himself onstage, auditioning for the mechanicals! They also found someone close to our hearts in the National Portrait Gallery. The English Department and Librarians ended the year on a high note, doing what we love best: reading aloud! The book we had selected for Year 6 to read over the summer – Jennifer Bell’s Wonderscape – sadly has no audiobook yet. In the interests of accessibility (and because audiobooks ARE reading) we undertook to record the audiobook ourselves. It was a lot of fun and hopefully will help Year 6 with their reading over the summer.

ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHTS | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

It has been another busy and exciting year in the J.O. Heap Library!

rom welcoming our new Year 7 students through weekly library lessons to celebrating reading with events such as World Book Day, the library has been a vibrant hub of activity throughout the year. We have been fortunate to have had a wonderful and enthusiastic team of Junior Librarians whose hard work and commitment have helped keep the library running smoothly.

Alongside promoting reading for pleasure, the library has continued to support learning by hosting Academic Mentor drop-in sessions where students can receive additional support in subjects they find challenging from Year 12 Academic Mentor prefects. These sessions help students develop effective study habits, improve organisation and revision skills, build confidence, and work towards achieving their academic goals. Whether discovering a new favourite book, taking part in a reading challenge, attending a library event or simply finding a quiet place to learn, it has been wonderful to see so many students making the most of everything the library has to offer. We look forward to another fantastic year of reading, learning and new adventures!

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHTS

MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES

e kick-started the year celebrating the European Day of Languages with a wide array of language-based activities. In lessons, Years 7, 8 and 9 learned about other world languages, including how to create their own new language from scratch, whilst senior students enjoyed seminars from Manchester and Liverpool Universities on how languages are helpful within the world of work. The whole school enjoyed a delicious European-themed lunch and the MFL Department received an extraordinary number of entries for the European Day of Languages Bake-Off, which were later sold in aid of the sign language charity ‘Makaton’, raising nearly £200.

French

The Routes into Languages Translation Bee also returned this year. Year 8 students competed by learning to translate hundreds of sentences across a range of tenses. Our six school champions were Matheo, Ethan, Aashma, Seren, Charlie and Aila-Mae. Kingswood reached the final 52 in the South West, beating more than 3,380 contestants from schools across the region. Competition was fierce, with Aila-Mae securing a place at the National Final. Congratulations to all our students for their exceptional commitment, achievement and enthusiasm for languages.

Year 7 students took part in the Modern Foreign Languages Spelling Bee in French, German and Spanish. Students learned over 200 words and competed to spell as many as possible in 60 seconds. Following class and year-group competitions, Rhoda, Dolci and Lilwen were crowned school champions. Later in the year, we were proud to host the Regional Final, welcoming schools from across the South West. Our students had already beaten over 2,000 competitors nationally, placing them in the top 1.5% of Year 7 language learners. In June, Rhoda and Lilwen travelled to Cambridge University for the National Final after successfully competing for their places. A truly outstanding achievement!

This year, the MFL Department was very pleased to launch the Language Ambassadors Programme. This leadership programme encouraged enthusiastic linguists from different year groups to set up and run their own committee which offered students the opportunity to help organise language-themed events, get creative and encourage others to get involved in all aspects of language-learning. Our Language Ambassadors did an excellent job in assisting the hosting of the Regional Final of the Spelling Bee and we look forward to more languagefocused activities in the next academic year. Finally, we were delighted to host a new series of foreign language film evenings. Throughout the year, French, German and Spanish Departments each hosted a cinema evening, screening a classic film in the target language for students of all ages. These events were a great success, giving students the opportunity to experience languages alongside the culture, history and traditions of the countries where they are spoken, all through the engaging medium of film.

The French Department is proud to celebrate all students who entered the national Anthea Bell Prize for Young Translators competition, which attracted over 25,000 entries from across the UK. Special congratulations to Edie G, who received a Level 1 Commendation for her translation of an extract from Declaration of the Rights of Woman and of the Female Citizen by Olympe de Gouges. This outstanding achievement will see both Edie and Kingswood School recognised by Oxford University. All who entered demonstrated great commitment, curiosity and resilience in a highly competitive national competition. Year 8 students enjoyed a fantastic French breakfast experience. They tucked into croissants with jam, and hot chocolate and juice, while putting their French skills into practice by ordering in the language. The morning was filled with laughter, games and great company: an enjoyable and memorable way to bring French learning to life.

ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHTS | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

Spanish

German Year 10 and 11 Germanists took part in a study day at The British Film Institute on London’s South Bank, starting with some analysis of some popular German films, looking at German culture and diversity in film. The session, led by a professor from the Goethe Institut, allowed the audience to think about how we see difference and similarity across cultures. In the afternoon, students watched a screening of ‘Almanya’- a moving story of Turkish Gastarbeiter in Germany. After a short ride to Kensington, they were then treated to a traditional German feast at Stein Berlin, before heading home full of Flammkuchen, Schnitzel and Currywurst. Year 9 made an excellent start to their GCSE German course, studying school life and creating impressive promotional videos for Kingswood. They explored free time and German history through a film project on Ballon, using the story of an East German family's escape to deepen both their language skills and historical understanding. Year 8 were able to sample an authentic German breakfast picnic whilst studying the topic of food and daily routine in lessons. There were lots of role plays and wonderful descriptions of a traditional German breakfast (although not everyone loves ‘Roggenbrot’ in the afternoon!)

Mandarin Year 8 Mandarin students celebrated the end of their Food & Drink unit with a Chinese Cooking Challenge, preparing a range of authentic dishes at home with their families. The project helped students develop new culinary skills while deepening their understanding of Chinese culture, showcasing the enjoyment of language learning beyond the classroom. Mandarin students celebrated Chinese New Year by practising Chinese calligraphy and creating huichun - traditional decorative banners expressing wishes of good fortune and prosperity. Students learned about Chinese calligraphy and the meaning behind different wishes, while enjoying the creativity of forming each character. Their finished pieces added a festive atmosphere to the classroom and beautifully showcased their hard work. Mandarin students also enjoyed a cultural trip to Bath’s East Asian Museum, exploring East and Southeast Asian artefacts, visiting the contemporary Reimaginings exhibition, and taking part in a museum treasure hunt. The day concluded with an authentic Chinese meal, providing a memorable cultural and learning experience.

Ella C in Year 13 entered an essay competition for The Bulletin of Advanced Spanish with the University of Glasgow. She wrote on the Cueca Sola, a Chilean dance that arose during Pinochet’s dictatorship as a protest against the regime’s thousands of disappearances. With a record number of high-quality entries, judges selected a winner and four highly commended essays. Ella’s was among them, with the possibility of publication later this year for schools across the UK. This excellent achievement reflects her dedication to Spanish and her skill in writing complex essays on challenging topics. In January, author Jason Webster gave a talk to Sixth Form students studying Spanish on the Spanish Civil War and its legacy. Students learned about the origins of the war, how it played out and, importantly, how it has continued to shape Spain’s political landscape, societal memory and historical identity.

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHTS

SACKETT SOCIETY The Sackett Society, named after former Headmaster Alfred Barrett Sackett (19281959), brings together Academic Scholars from Year 7 to Year 13, providing a rich range of opportunities to extend and enhance their learning beyond the classroom.

his year has seen Sixth Form scholars become much more involved with the Westwood and Middle School members of the Society. Their contribution to our lunchtime activity sessions has been invaluable, and we look forward to building on this collaboration next year. The Sackett Society draws its strength from the talent, intellect and curiosity of its students, and these qualities are magnified when students of different ages come together to exchange ideas and learn from one another. This was evident in a range of activities, from Middle School students applying their scientific knowledge and creative thinking to Engineering and Science Admissions Test (ESAT) questions, to Westwood scholars exploring the theme of ‘Truth’ through entries for this year's Orwell Youth Prize. Some of the most rewarding sessions, however, have simply been those spent talking - sharing perspectives, discussing ideas and learning from each other's experiences.

In that same spirit of collaboration, Sackett members wrote mini autobiographies to share on the Society's OneNote area, while our Year 13 scholars offered supercurricular recommendations from their UCAS personal statements,

providing inspiration and practical guidance for younger members. Sackett Lectures once again showcased the remarkable knowledge and enthusiasm of our Sixth Form scholars. A highlight of the Society’s calendar, the lectures welcomed students from Years 7–13, who enjoyed impeccably researched and confidently delivered presentations on topics ranging from the history of witches and the meaning of life to misinformation in climate science, ethical considerations of pharmaceutical advances, and whether humanity should have ever split the atom. The talks demonstrated poise and erudition well beyond that expected of Sixth Form students. In an enjoyable bit of inter-school competitive brain-flexing, scholars from all years took part in the Schools’ Challenge Quiz - the premier general knowledge competition for schools across the UK. One Intermediate team secured a first-round victory to progress to the second round of the main challenge while the other four teams enjoyed good runs in the Plate competition, with the Seniors making it through to the Plate Finals Day. Well done to all and we look forward to competing again next year.

Late in the year, a group of Year 7 and 8 scholars also met with students from Queen’s College, London, in a non-competitive format. Students met online to discuss the topic ‘Futures and AI’, particularly focussing on the opportunities and challenges AI presents for children in and out of the school environment. It was an interesting and insightful discussion, and a great way to share ideas between schools. A final highlight was the Year 7 to 9 Sackett Society trip to MathsWorld and the Tate Modern. MathsWorld was full of fun and intriguing puzzles, challenges, games and demonstrations of how maths is behind everything from engineering to language. The Tate expanded minds in a different direction, with highlights including a multi-sensory installation including ‘In Search of Vanished Blood’ by Nalini Malani and Andy Warhol’s hugely influential and newly restored ‘Marilyn Diptych’. Both venues inspired excellent and entertaining conversations in the weeks that followed. We look forward to another exciting year for our academic scholars. Dr Nick Burton Head of Academic Scholarship

ACADEMIC HIGHLIGHTS | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

PRIZE GIVING 2026 It was a privilege to once again bring our community together at the Bath Forum for this year’s Prize Giving, a wonderful occasion that celebrated the achievements, character and aspirations of our students.

urrounded by parents, staff, governors and friends of the School, we took the opportunity to recognise not only individual success but also the collective spirit that defines Kingswood. The afternoon was rich in both accomplishment and celebration. Academic prizes reflected the dedication, resilience and curiosity shown by students across every year group, reminding us of the breadth of talent and opportunity that flourishes within our community. These moments painted a vivid picture of a school where academic ambition sits alongside creativity, service and personal growth. Prize Giving is, of course, about far more than certificates and awards. It offers a chance to reflect on the values that underpin a Kingswood education and the qualities we seek to nurture in every young person: integrity, kindness, courage and a willingness to embrace challenge. Seeing our Year 13 leavers on stage for the final time was a particularly moving moment, as they prepare to embark on the next chapter of their lives with confidence, purpose and a strong sense of who they are. As the ceremony drew to a close, I was struck once again by the strength of our community and the remarkable achievements of our students and staff. It is a source of great pride to witness all that has been accomplished this year, and we look forward with optimism and ambition to the opportunities that lie ahead. The values and vision that have guided Kingswood for generations continue to inspire us as we write the next chapter of the School's story. Dr Rachel McIlwaine Deputy Head Academic

PRIZES FOR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO THE SCHOOL 2026 The Heart of Westwood Award

S. Pierrepont, N. Sargant

The Charlotte Hecquet Butterfly Award for Fine Art

The Rebecca Bleathman Travel Scholarship

E. Ballantyne

M. Rozhkova

The Simon Morris Award for Super-Curricular Achievement

I. Sekiguchi

The Duchars Award for Art

E. Lunt

The Jo Heap Award for Contribution to Sport

H. Evans, E. Holt

The John Allison Memorial Award for DT

A. Reilly

The Jean Pratten Award for Music

A. Kirkwood

The Sandy Burgon Award for Sporting Commitment Out of School

H. Gibbons

The Tom Pritchard Award for Music & Drama

C. Engley-Duffy

The Warmann Shield for Team Sport

U13A Boys Hockey

The Golden Mask Award

L. Hayward-Rodgers

The President’s Prize for Contribution to Science

I. Branigan

The Friends of Kingswood Award for Community Spirit

Kingswood Jazz Orchestra

The Dikran A. Knadjian Award for Medicine

M. Moore, C. Woodward

The Chaplain’s Award for Charity

I. Sheppard

The E.P. Thompson Award for History

T. Towell Hughes

The Opie Award for Kindness

R. Peyre

The Model United Nations Award

S. Stanley, D. Wellings

The Cooke Award for Fortitude

J. Suntharalingam

The William Cross Award for Politics

J. Pilkington

The Burns Family Leadership Award

E. McDade

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | CREATIVE ARTS

ART

The following images show a selection of A Level and GCSE artwork from this year.

1. Pippa G, Y11

5. Rubysha M, Y13

9. Noah S, Y11

2. Emmy L, Y13

6. Masha R, Y13

10. Eleanor L, Y13

3. Laura S, Y13

7. Jasper S, Y11

11. Frankie J, Y11

4. Austin P, Y11

8. Fin B, Y13

Kingswood’s Art Department is housed in a beautiful period building complete with specialist studios for painting, ceramics, sculpture, printmaking, and both digital and traditional photography. From the very first years through to Sixth Form, students are encouraged to explore, experiment and express themselves through a huge range of media. One of the highlights of the year is the opportunity to take part in the Young Bath Artists Art Exhibition, held at Bath’s vibrant arts hub Blundall’s Yard – giving our students a professional platform to show off their work to the public.

As well as trips to Bristol and the Natural History Museum in Oxford, this year, Year 12 students enjoyed a new residential trip to St Ives where they visited the Eden Project, The Jackson Foundation Gallery, Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens, Botallack Mine, Tate St Ives and the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden.

CREATIVE ARTS | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | CREATIVE ARTS

CREATIVE ARTS | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

19 12. Bex A, Y11

18. Charlie M, Y11

13. Will B, Y11

19. Albert B, Y11

14. Clemmie E-D, Y13

20. Emily H, Y13

15. Kit H, Y13

21. Amelie L, Y11

16. Isla B, Y11

22. Sam D, Y11

17. Lily F, Y11

23. Melisa P, Y11

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DESIGN, TECHNOLOGY & ENGINEERING This year has been one of our most exciting and successful yet, filled with opportunities for students to explore the world of design, engineering and technology beyond the classroom.

hrough a diverse programme of trips, competitions and handson projects, students have demonstrated remarkable creativity, resilience and ambition. Our year began with an unforgettable visit to Longleat Safari Park, where Year 7 students combined their studies of ecosystems with design research for a product design project. From observing lions and rhinos on safari to investigating retail products in the gift shop, students gained valuable insights that informed their own design work back at school. Internationally, 33 students from Years 11-13 embarked on an inspiring tour of Italy. From exploring the design heritage of Gucci and Salvatore Ferragamo in Florence to visiting the iconic Lamborghini, Ducati and Ferrari museums and factories, students experienced first-hand how innovation, craftsmanship and engineering excellence shape some of the world's most recognisable brands. Read more on page 90.

Closer to home, Year 10 students visited London's Design Museum, engaging in professional design workshops and exploring exhibitions showcasing everything from iconic consumer products to cutting-edge architecture and contemporary design. The trip provided invaluable inspiration as students prepared to embark on their own coursework projects. Industrial visits continued in January when Year 12 students compared two very different approaches to manufacturing. At the BMW Mini factory, they witnessed highly automated mass production on an impressive scale, while at Morgan Motor Company they saw traditional hand-crafted vehicle construction in action. Meanwhile, Year 8 students explored the history and future of transport at Coventry Transport Museum, learning about automotive innovation before designing their own CO₂-powered drag racing cars. Our robotics programme has enjoyed exceptional growth this year. The newly formed VEX IQ team achieved

...students have embraced every opportunity to learn, compete and innovate...

immediate success in its inaugural season, winning the Robotics Skills Champion Award at Clifton College. Meanwhile, our VEX V5 teams competed across the country, reaching the knockout stages at every event they entered and securing a Robotics Skills Champion title at Charterhouse School. The highlight of the season came when our Sixth Form team qualified for the National Championships in Telford, where they competed against the strongest teams in the country and finished an impressive 23rd in the UK. Their achievements are a testament to the dedication, perseverance and engineering skills developed throughout the year.

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STEM Racing also provided students with the opportunity to showcase their engineering, project management and teamwork skills on a national stage. Kingswood hosted the regional finals, welcoming more than 30 external teams and fielding nine of our own. The standard of competition was exceptionally high, but Team Impetus rose to the challenge, impressing judges with their technical understanding, professionalism and performance on track. Their victory in the Professional Class earned them a coveted place at the National Finals in Rotherham, where they competed against some of the most established schools in the country. Although they narrowly missed out on silverware, the team gained invaluable experience and set a strong foundation for future success in the competition. The Greenpower Racing team has laid strong foundations for an exciting future. Following an inspiring visit to the University of Bath's Mechanical Engineering Department, students explored advanced engineering projects ranging from autonomous vehicles to Formula Student race cars. Supported by the university, the team has spent the year building its own single-seater electric race car and is looking forward to representing Kingswood on the track at Castle Combe in 2027. Throughout the year, our students have embraced every opportunity to learn, compete and innovate. Whether exploring world-class museums, visiting leading manufacturers, competing on national stages or designing and building their own engineering projects, they have demonstrated outstanding enthusiasm, teamwork and determination. None of these achievements would have been possible without the support of the wider Kingswood community. We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who has contributed to making this such a memorable and successful year. Mr James Castrique Head of DTE

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | CREATIVE ARTS

Here is a selection of the A Level and GCSE projects created this year. 5

CREATIVE ARTS | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

1. Beau O'M 2. Will P 3. Ollie B 4. Noah S 5. Theo E 6. Josh B 7. Katy D

8. Naruaki K 9. George A 10. Georgia G 11. Flynn B 12. Alex H 13. Sam B 14. Will C

15. Freddie H 16. Abigail E 17. Harvey B 18. Andrew D 19. Christian S 20. George W 21. Ewan S

22. Livvy H 23. Ted L 24. Austin P 25. Hannah L

15 16 17

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DR AMA

SCRIPTED EXAM PERFORMANCES Congratulations to all our Year 11 and 13 students for their engaging and powerful practical examination performances this year.

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YEAR 12 DEVISED ASSESSMENT Year 12 students took inspiration from The Paper Birds theatre company for their bold and provocative devised piece. The piece challenged audiences to consider the implications of the overturning of Roe v Wade and the diminishing rights of women over their own bodies in the United States. It was a timely, powerful and thoughtprovoking performance.

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YEAR 10 PRODUCTION OF ORCHESTRA We enjoyed a fantastic run of the Year 10 production, Orchestra written by Charlie Josephine. The play, set in a youth orchestra rehearsing over half term, explores themes of success and the pressure of striving for artistic excellence - something our talented cast clearly understood as they rose to the challenge of a demanding and ambitious performance. Over many months, Year 10 worked incredibly hard, tackling mature themes, physical theatre, complex ensemble work and some truly moving monologues. They captured both the awkwardness and humour of teenage life, as well as the universal struggle between frustration and passion that comes with mastering any craft. With excellent support behind the scenes, it was a production of which they should be immensely proud.

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DRAMA TRIPS As well as numerous department trips throughout the year to more local theatres, our Year 10 Drama students enjoyed a trip to Stratford-upon-Avon, beginning with a visit to Shakespeare's Birthplace before heading to the Swan Theatre for an afternoon performance of Cyrano de Bergerac. The show was moving, funny, and superbly skilled throughout, featuring daring stage combat and jousting, with Adrian Lester commanding the stage. It was a masterclass in performance and design from start to finish, and students had the pleasure of meeting some of the cast afterwards. A group of Drama students also enjoyed a very full weekend of theatre in London during the Easter break, engaging with a diverse range of theatrical styles and genres. Visiting numerous venues, students enjoyed performances of Kinky Boots, JaJa's African Hair Braids, Broken Glass, A Midsummer Night's Dream and Hadestown, as well chatting to directors and learning about Drury Lane Theatre’s 350-year history, stunning architecture and technical innovations. Their enthusiasm and genuine curiosity throughout the weekend reflected real maturity and passion.

FAREWELL TO CHARLIE What a brilliant year it’s been for LAMDA students! In November, twenty-five students took exams and achieved a flawless 100% pass rate, earning 21 Distinctions and 4 Merits across Grades 4 to 8. In the Spring session, a further 52 exams were taken. Spanning Grades 3 to 8 in Acting, Devising Drama and Speaking in Public, students achieved an impressive 96% Distinction rate and 100% pass rate. These achievements reflect months of dedication, rehearsal and hard work, and enormous thanks go to our LAMDA teachers for their expert guidance and encouragement throughout the year. As well as 13 Bronze (Grade 6) and 6 Silver (Grade 7) awards, special congratulations go to E. Fitzpatrick, L. Hayward-Rodgers, F. Iles, I. Sheppard, and D. Wellings who all achieved Grade 8 Gold medals this year. These awards are great testament to their hard work, enjoyment of and dedication to the performing arts.

Graduate Drama Assistant Charlie sadly left us at the end of the Summer term after three years, despite his contract only being for one! Charlie was always willing to jump in and help, whatever the situation: drama games, classroom support, stage management, costume, LAMDA, physical theatre for Curious Incident, and of course his choreography for Legally Blonde, Matilda, and The Addams Family. He will be hugely missed for his sense of fun as much as his talent, by staff and students alike, and we hope he'll return to see us in the future. We wish him every success.

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THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME We had been waiting for the performance rights to The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time to become available, and they arrived at exactly the right moment: we had just the right cast for it.

ased on Mark Haddon's bestselling novel and the acclaimed National Theatre production, the play follows Christopher Boone as he investigates the death of his neighbour's dog. A mystery that unravels far more than he bargained for. Christopher is a complex character to portray. His abrupt manner can seem challenging on paper but requires an actor to capture both his vulnerability and his manic episodes. Frankie and Sophie each brought something special to the role: different approaches, but both exquisitely balancing his anxiety and his charm, his detective work and his emotional journey. Josh found the humanity in Dad. A man keeping too many secrets, stretched to breaking point, but fighting to hold everything together. Liv gave us a Mum who was neither villain nor victim, just painfully, recognisably human. Siobhan is a tricky role, serving as narrator whilst also being the person Christopher confides in most.

Lucia injected the part with life and warmth, guiding the storytelling with playful touches while never appearing condescending. The ensemble became a character in themselves: playful in learning the lifts and movement sequences, experimenting in rehearsals with how to capture falling into the sea, flying through space, and sleepwalking through London. Our smaller roles injected the play with life and humour. Clemmie's well-meaning Mrs Alexander, Sam's unsympathetic Mr Shears, and Nathan's enthusiastic Reverend were all played with delicate humour and wisdom. This production marked a new direction for Kingswood Theatre, staging the production in a thrust configuration. The minimalist set placed the focus firmly on the performers, while Ollie and James's lighting design made striking use of projection to establish location and capture the way Christopher experiences the world.

This production marked a new direction for Kingswood Theatre...

CREATIVE ARTS | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

Intense lighting portrayed his panic and brought his unique perspective vividly to life. The sound design complemented this beautifully, immersing the audience in the interior workings of Christopher's mind. Charlotte, as Deputy Stage Manager, kept the whole show running smoothly. Not an easy feat with over 550 individual technical cues. Our principals have shown exceptional commitment, and there have been

moments throughout rehearsals that have been truly inspirational. One Friday afternoon stands out in particular. It came at the end of a gruelling fortnight of Year 11 mock exams. The weather was miserable, yet Frankie, Sophie and Josh arrived at rehearsal full of energy, enthusiasm and professionalism. When students show up with that kind of dedication after a fortnight of exams, it reminds me exactly why I do what I do.

Huge thanks to Charlie Bevis as Movement Director and Stage Manager, whose endless patience and creativity working with the ensemble proved invaluable. Thanks also to Neil Francis for inspiring our design and technical team so brilliantly. I couldn't be prouder of what this company has created together. Ms Jo Brayton, Director

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THE ADDAMS FAMILY The junior production of The Addams Family proved to be an outstanding triumph and one that will live long in the memory at Kingswood.

espite an unprecedented heatwave disrupting the performance schedule and forcing a six-day gap between the opening night and the final two performances, the cast and crew returned with remarkable professionalism and enthusiasm to deliver three superb shows. The decision to postpone the remaining performances, rather than ask audiences and performers to endure a baking theatre, was undoubtedly the right one, and the quality of the final performances more than justified the wait.

From the moment casting was announced earlier in the year, it was clear that something special was beginning to take shape. Charlie Bevis brought his unmistakable flair, creativity and infectious energy to the choreography, while Mr Barton ensured the musical standards were consistently exceptional. Under the direction of Mr Harding, whose determination to squeeze every possible laugh from the wonderfully eccentric characters never relented, the production developed into a polished, hilarious and hugely entertaining evening of theatre.

was an excellent Lucas Beineke, and together they convincingly portrayed the challenges of young love between two families whose ideas of "normal" could not have been more different.

The ensemble played a vital role throughout. The Ancestors and Recently Deceased created a wonderfully atmospheric backdrop, combining strong choral singing with energetic and imaginative choreography that perfectly supported the principal cast and ensured the stage was constantly alive with movement and character.

Tanaka was outstanding as Gomez Addams, delighting audiences with impeccable comic timing, boundless energy and genuine warmth. Opposite him, Florrie gave a wonderfully poised and sophisticated performance as Morticia. Their relationship formed the emotional centre of the production, balancing humour with heartfelt moments and providing many of the show's most memorable scenes.

At the heart of the story, Sasha delivered an assured and engaging performance as Wednesday Addams, perfectly capturing her dry wit and unwavering determination. Alongside her, Thomas

...remarkable quality, tremendous heart and unforgettable entertainment.

Elsewhere, there were superb performances across the cast. Kiki was delightfully eccentric as Grandma,

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Freddie gave a thoroughly entertaining performance as the long suffering Pugsley, while Lexi and Mat brought great charm and comic flair to Alice and Mal Beineke. Fin’s towering, understated portrayal of Lurch was beautifully judged, and Ted’s inventive interpretation of Thing delighted audiences throughout. There were countless musical highlights, but one performance that will undoubtedly remain in the memories of everyone fortunate enough to see the production was Rupert as Uncle Fester. His infectious enthusiasm, comic brilliance and wonderfully heartfelt tales of his love for the Moon made every appearance a genuine showstopper. It was a performance full of warmth, innocence and impeccable comic timing that perfectly captured the spirit of the character. Behind the scenes, enormous credit must also go to Mr Francis and his talented technical team, whose professionalism ensured the production looked and sounded outstanding throughout. From the lighting and sound to the seamless scene changes, every technical element enhanced the storytelling and gave the production a truly professional finish. Productions of this quality are never the result of individual performances alone. They are built on months of commitment, teamwork and countless hours of rehearsal from students and staff alike. The Addams Family showcased not only the exceptional talent that exists within Kingswood, but also the spirit, humour and sense of community that makes school productions so special. It was a production of remarkable quality, tremendous heart and unforgettable entertainment: a Kingswood show that will be talked about for many years to come.

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MUSIC The 2025-26 academic year has been one of tremendous musical achievement at Kingswood. Across every year group, students have embraced opportunities to perform, create, collaborate, and challenge themselves, contributing to a thriving musical culture that continues to grow in strength.

rom large-scale concerts and productions to competitions, tours, and everyday music-making, the year has been rich with memorable moments. The achievements celebrated here reflect not only talent and success, but also the commitment, enthusiasm, and teamwork that lie at the heart of music at Kingswood.

MUSIC EXAMINATIONS Congratulations to all students who entered music examinations this year. Across ABRSM, Trinity, and Rock School, students achieved outstanding results spanning every level, from Initial Grade to diploma qualifications. These achievements reflect countless hours of practice, perseverance, and dedication, and we are immensely proud of all who took part. The Music Department was delighted to celebrate the following students who achieved their Grade 8 or above this year, representing a highly significant musical achievement. GRADE 8: B. Dinnis - Musical Theatre Singing with Distinction | L. Martin - Clarinet C. Tong - Singing with Merit | E. Wong - Organ with Distinction ARSM IN PERFORMANCE: E. Wong - Piano with Merit

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HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MUSICAL YEAR Music always plays a central role in the life of Kingswood, enriching assemblies, services, ceremonies, and countless school events throughout the year. Whether performing on stage, leading worship, accompanying occasions, or contributing behind the scenes, students have brought energy, commitment, and professionalism to every aspect of school life.

Year 7 Orchestral Instrument Project Building on the success of its inaugural year, our Year 7 Orchestral Instrument Project continues to transform classroom music-making. Every student spent the Spring term learning either clarinet, trumpet, trombone, violin, viola, or cello, developing technique, ensemble skills, and musical confidence through hands-on performance. Professional musicians representing the string, brass, woodwind, and percussion families visited throughout the programme, introducing students to the wider world of orchestral music. Most encouraging of all has been watching students from the first cohort build on their early experiences, with many continuing instrumental lessons and some already becoming valued members of our orchestras and ensembles. Christmas Concert & Spring Concert Two of the department's flagship events once again brought together our major ensembles in evenings of music-making of the highest standard. From orchestral and choral repertoire to jazz, chamber music, and solo performances, both concerts celebrated the remarkable breadth of musical life at Kingswood. Packed stages, enthusiastic audiences, and outstanding performances combined to

make these showcase events highlights of the musical calendar. Budapest Choral Tour To round off the academic year, members of the choirs embarked on an unforgettable tour to Budapest and Lake Balaton. The tour combined outstanding music-making, friendship, and cultural discovery, providing a fitting finale to another successful year for choral music at Kingswood. Read more on page 99. Kingswood Keyboard Day One of the year's most exciting new initiatives was our inaugural Keyboard Day, a celebration of the piano and organ in all their forms. Students enjoyed a packed programme of workshops, concerts, demonstrations, and masterclasses, including sessions with Bath Abbey Organist Adam Field, piano technician Marc Hackworthy, and internationally acclaimed pianist Nurry Lee. The day concluded with an inspiring evening showcase in which Nurry performed alongside our own students, offering both phenomenal musicianship and invaluable advice to aspiring performers. Bath Festival: Harmony Rising & Party in the City Kingswood musicians once again

played a prominent role in The Bath Festival. Harmony Rising returned in partnership with Bath Philharmonia and schools from across the city, giving students the opportunity to compose and perform original music alongside young musicians from across Bath. Kingswood's contribution, affectionately nicknamed Mystical Wind, explored themes of freedom, imagination, and limitless possibility, culminating in a powerful massed performance in Bath Abbey as part of Party in the City. The festival also featured another energetic appearance from Kingswood Jazz Orchestra, whose performance at the Guildhall once again demonstrated the ensemble's outstanding musicianship and infectious enthusiasm. Music Scholars The annual Scholars' Concert provides an opportunity for our Music Scholars to showcase their exceptional talents. This year, audiences enjoyed a remarkable variety of performances, ranging from virtuosic instrumental playing to captivating vocal repertoire. Scholars also travelled to the Musical Museum in Kew this year, exploring the fascinating history of mechanical instruments, including self-playing pianos and Wurlitzers, before ending the day experiencing Evensong at St George's Chapel, Windsor.

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Aurora Orchestra Visit Our A Level musicians enjoyed an inspiring visit to Wiltshire Music Centre, where they attended an open rehearsal and Q&A session with the internationally renowned Aurora Orchestra. Famous for performing major works entirely from memory, Aurora gave students a fascinating insight into their innovative approach to music-making. Rehearsing Mendelssohn's Italian Symphony, one of the A Level set works, proved both enlightening and inspiring. The Addams Family This year's junior production was a spectacular celebration of musical theatre, bringing together talented performers from Years 7 to 9 for a show packed with energy, humour, and confidence. The production was

a reminder that the future of musical theatre at Kingswood is exceptionally bright! Read more on page 56. Musical Theatre Cabaret Night Another collaboration with the Drama Department, our Musical Theatre Cabaret Night offered senior performers the opportunity to explore a wide range of repertoire in an intimate New York-style cabaret setting. With solos, duets, and ensemble numbers spanning many decades of musical theatre history, the evening showcased exceptional vocal talent and proved a tremendous success with performers and audience alike. Rock & Pop Charity Concerts Popular music continues to go from strength to strength at Kingswood.

Throughout the year, student-led concerts in support of Children's Hospice South West and Beyond Ourselves Zambia provided exciting platforms for bands, soloists, and vocalists to perform. Featuring everything from rock anthems and contemporary pop to musical theatre favourites, these concerts demonstrated both the musical talent and charitable spirit of our students while raising valuable funds for important causes. Blind Veterans Concert A special performance for the Blind Veterans UK community in Bath. Students presented a programme of beloved songs from the 1940s, 50s, and 60s, bringing joy and nostalgia to a wonderful audience. The occasion was a powerful reminder of music's unique ability to connect generations and strengthen community ties.

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Carol Services & Commemoration Service Choral music remained at the heart of school life throughout the year. Senior Choir and Westwood Voices led our annual Carol Services at Bath Abbey and St Stephen's Church, helping to mark the Christmas season with music and reflection. At Easter, Senior Choir performed a moving programme for the Commemoration Service in Bath Abbey, including Tippett's Steal Away, Dan Forrest's And Can It Be, and Bainton's And I Saw a New Heaven, providing a contemplative sound to one of the most significant occasions in the school calendar. Lunchtime & Teatime Concert Series Our regular concert series continued to provide invaluable opportunities for students to develop confidence and share their talents in a supportive environment. The first concert of the year, held in the beautiful surroundings of St Mary's, Bathwick, set the tone for a year of outstanding performances from musicians of all ages and abilities. KATS Music & Drama Awards Evening The annual Kingswood Artistically Talented Students (KATS) Awards provided a joyful opportunity to recognise and celebrate the remarkable contributions of our student performers. Read more on page 62. Mr Andy Barton Director of Music

YEAR 13 MUSIC SCHOLARS A. Kirkwood | M. Wilson This year's Year 13 Music Scholars have been exceptional ambassadors for Music at Kingswood. Their talent, versatility, and commitment have been evident in every aspect of the department, from major concerts and services to ensembles, productions, and student-led initiatives. Equally important has been the encouragement and leadership they have provided to younger musicians, helping to foster a culture of ambition, creativity, and enjoyment. They leave behind a wonderful legacy, and we thank them for the tremendous contribution they have made during their time at Kingswood.

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KATS 2026

In June, we saw the return of one of the highlights of the Kingswood calendar: the annual Music & Drama Awards, better known to all as KATS: Kingswood's Artistically Talented Students.

hilst the evening brings individual awards, performances and winners, KATS was never created for individuals. It exists to celebrate all of the creative energy that flows into the Performing Arts at Kingswood: everything that happens behind the scenes to bring a show to life, the small acts of discipline and kindness backstage, the growth of skill and the pursuit of excellence. It is a celebration of the arts themselves, of what they give to those who make them and to those who experience them. Indeed, as was proposed in the opening address, perhaps the theatre deserves honorary status as our seventh house. It is a gathering place, a space where we challenge ourselves, support each other and create something together, and in that sense it represents everything Music and Drama give to our Kingswood community.

The Dining Hall, transformed for the occasion, provided an elegant setting for a sit-down dinner shared by invited students and VIP guests. From the first course to the final award, the evening struck just the right balance of glamour and warmth, a fitting tribute to the performing arts at Kingswood. As ever, the red carpet was a clear favourite. Students made their entrances to a chorus of cheers and applause from proud parents assembled outside the Friends' Bar. We were thrilled to welcome former student Kitty Hawthorne as our guest of honour. Since leaving Kingswood, Kitty has trained at the prestigious Guildhall School of Music and Drama and has quickly established herself as one of the most exciting young actors of her generation. She has regularly appeared on screen in Apple TV's number 1 series Your Friends & Neighbours alongside Jon Hamm, and in Amazon's acclaimed

series Dead Ringers starring Rachel Weisz. On stage, she has performed at the National Theatre in Kerry Jackson and recently took on the iconic role of Gwendolen Fairfax in the critically acclaimed production of The Importance of Being Earnest, starring, amongst others, Sir Stephen Fry as Lady Bracknell. The audience was also treated to a delightful surprise: a video message from none other than Sir Stephen Fry himself, offering his good wishes and championing the Arts in the age of AI. Guiding us through proceedings once more was Mr Harding, whose easy charm and quick humour kept the evening moving in fine style. And the performances themselves? Simply electric. Year 11 drama students Poppy, Rosie and Esme got things underway in style, leaving the room in stitches with a wonderfully funny performance of "The Queen Must Die" from their recent

CREATIVE ARTS | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

GCSE assessment. Ellis then delighted the audience with a beautifully judged rendition of "Fly Me to the Moon" on the piano, followed by a show-stopping number from Six the Musical, performed by Clemmie, Emily, Lucia, Ella, Kit and Issy, and a superb performance from the Year 10 cast of Orchestra. The evening then reached a rousing climax as our Year 13 leavers took to the stage for a finale of "Hall of Fame" that was a fitting end to the evening. Our heartfelt thanks go to the wonderful staff of the Music and Drama departments, whose hard work behind the curtain made the night possible. We are equally grateful to the catering team for a magnificent meal, to the Friends of Kingswood for their ongoing support, and especially to Mrs Higgins, whose flawless organisation kept everything running like clockwork. Above all, warmest congratulations to every nominee and winner: your creativity, commitment and spirit are an inspiration to the whole school. KATS reminded us all that the theatre truly is our seventh house, a home for everyone who makes the arts and everyone who shares in them, and we could not be prouder of what our students have created together.

AWARD

WINNER

NOMINEES

Y10 Next Generation

R. Estrella

A. Faux, S. Leonard, J. Sainsbury

Outstanding GCSE Music Composition

B. Bradford

S. Dinnis, S. Laugharne, T. Pillow

Outstanding GCSE Music Performance

S. Johnston

B. Bradford, F. Dyson, N. Kida

Outstanding Contribution to Music

A. Kirkwood

O. Cory, M. Lang, M. Wilson

Musos’ Muso

M. Wilson

A. Kirkwood, E. Savage, M. Lang

Y10 Rising Star for Drama

K. Greatorex Brooks

M. Kirkham, S. Leonard, R. Wood

Endgame: J. George F. Jensen A. Clark

Iron: S. Laugharne, P. Gatehouse

Playfight: E. Hickman D. Wellings K. Ovchinnikova

Romeo and Julie: I. Sheppard, K. Hawking, C. Harding

Best GCSE Drama Scripted Performance

Best A Level Drama Performance

The Queen Must Die: E. Hersch, R. Rees, P. Salkeld, A. Yu Rosencranzt and Guildenstern are Dead: J. Cole, F. Jackson

A Streetcar Named Desire: L. Hayward-Rodgers Iron: C. Engley-Duffy Like A Virgin: E. Savage

Best Individual Performance

F. Jensen S. Laugharne

J. George, L. Hayward-Rodgers, O. Jordan

Techies’ Techie

O. Morgan J. Wadsworth

C. Marke, S. Westbrook

Actors’ Actor

L. Hayward-Rodgers

C. Engley-Duffy

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GIRLS’ HOCKEY

This season was another remarkable chapter in the story of girls’ hockey at Kingswood.

cross the year, we played an extraordinary 159 matches, securing 92 wins and achieving a 58% win rate against consistently strong opposition. These results reflect not only the quality within the programme, but also the commitment, resilience, and spirit shown by every player representing Kingswood. In total, we fielded 20 teams, with more than 300 girls representing the School – an incredible level of participation that highlights the enthusiasm and passion for hockey across all year groups. From those picking up a stick for the first time to those competing at the highest level, every player has contributed to another memorable season.

We are especially proud to celebrate three unbeaten teams this year: the U15C, U13A, and U13B squads, whose consistency and teamwork led to exceptional campaigns. Across the age groups there have been many standout achievements, including the U15A team reaching the England Hockey U16 Tier 2 Final, the U13A team finishing third at the West Hockey Regional Finals, and the U12A squad qualifying for the West Hockey Regional Finals after finishing runners-up in Avon. One of the biggest highlights of the season came from the U14A team, who won the West Hockey U14 Regional Finals to secure qualification for the England Hockey National Finals.

COLOURS & AWARDS  COLTS COLOURS: Esme H, Livvy H, Sophie L, Iris G, Rosie R  HALF COLOURS: Emily H, Emmy L, Eva W  FULL COLOURS: Laura M  MOST IMPROVED PLAYER: Eva W  GROVE TROPHY (for the greatest contribution to the girls’ 1st XI): Maya S

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LAURA M, 1ST XI CAPTAIN: At 1st XI level, this season has been incredibly memorable. Captaining such a talented and close-knit group of players has been an absolute privilege, and every individual has contributed something unique to the team both on and off the pitch. Defensively, Sophie consistently made crucial interventions under pressure, while Ciara’s determination and resilience made her a vital part of the back line. Baci’s composure and strength in tackles ensured the team could always rely on her in key moments, and Hattie’s calmness on the ball brought confidence and control throughout the pitch. Iris made an immediate impact whenever she stepped onto the field, while Isla’s consistency, skill, and work rate made her a constant threat going forward. In midfield and attack, Livvy brought creativity, pace, and flair to every game, while Kitty consistently created dangerous opportunities in the circle with her sharp finishing and intelligent movement. Esme’s commitment and hard work throughout the season made her an incredibly dependable player, and Rosie’s energy and movement created countless opportunities for the team. Jess brought relentless determination and intensity to every match, always willing to work tirelessly for the team. A special mention must go to Eva, the only Year 13 leaving the 1st XI this year. Eva has been an outstanding role model and teammate, showing unwavering determination and commitment throughout the season. Maya’s creativity and vision consistently opened up the game, and she was always a threat on the ball with her skill and composure. I have absolutely loved captaining the 1st XI this year, and I am already looking forward to my final season with such a talented squad, especially with the exciting group of Year 10 players coming through. Finally, thank you to everyone who contributed to Kingswood Hockey this year and helped make the season such a memorable one. In particular, thank you to Mr Jackson for his constant support, enthusiasm, and commitment throughout the season.

1st XI 2nd XI 3rd XI 4th XI U15A U15B U15C U14A U14B U14C U13A U13B U13C U13D U12A U12B U12C U12D Bristol Grammar School

King's School Bruton

Redmaids'

Clifton College

King Edward's School

W W

Kingswood Prep All Hallows W

W L

St. Mary's Calne

Dauntsey's

King's School Gloucester

RGS Worcester

W W

Beechen Cliff Canford

Marlborough

Monkton Combe

L W

W L

Collegiate Dean Close

Prior Park Cheltenham College

Millfield Royal High

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RUGBY Jack W, 1st XV Captain Another jam-packed term of rugby, we fielded 16 teams and played 136 matches, winning or drawing just over half of them. This was all the more impressive considering we now have the likes of Cheltenham, Sherborne, Monmouth and Sir Thomas Rich on our fixture list.

he U12s settled into Senior Rugby nicely with some good early wins and a strong showing in the local block against KES; Jasper S, George L and Calvin B all did well for their respective teams. Along with the U16s, our U13s were on arguably the toughest local circuit but competed well and finished the season strongly with excellent wins against Monmouth. Kit W and Barnaby A were key contributors, particularly on the try scoring front. As a whole, the Year 9s had arguably the best season. We managed to field a ‘C’ team which was very competitive and the As were really successful, with Arsan G regularly the driving force. The U14Bs were the only unbeaten team in the School which is a great achievement in itself with a fixture list as tough as ours, but when you consider that 34 different players represented this team it is even more impressive and testament to Mr Darwin’s ability to motivate and organise such a large group of players. He, along with all the other ‘B’ team coaches in the School, do such a fantastic job of encouraging boys to get out and play.

At U15 level, Archie P and Matty C performed consistently for their respective teams, with the win against Blundell’s the highlight for the As, whilst victory over KES, in monsoon conditions, became the stand-out moment for the Bs. The U16As ended with a positive win record, with James S consistently performing at a high level and, for the Bs, Flynn B was always a great competitor. In the Senior teams, it was encouraging to witness the number of players who

took to the field for either the 2nd XV or 3rd XV. Over the course of the season, 31 players represented the 2nd XV, and the 3rds used 29 players in a single match against Clifton High! Jack W led the 2nds with distinction to a 70% win rate with Milo W becoming Player of the Season. For the 3rd XV, it was Toby G-B who emerged as the most consistent player. Preparation for the 1st XV began several months before the season and, as a group, they committed to their strength and conditioning, skills training and video analysis. This culminated with a highly enjoyable summer rugby tour to South Africa which paired cultural experiences with challenging fixtures against strong opposition. You can read about that in last year’s edition of KIF. This served to develop team cohesion and gave them the confidence that they could challenge the best schools on our circuit when they returned for the Kingswood Rugby Festival. Here, they delivered some impressive performances in front of a good crowd, with victories against Eton, Abingdon, and Bloxham.

SPORT | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

COLOURS & AWARDS  COLTS COLOURS: George A, James S, Harrison W  HALF COLOURS: Harry B, Fin B, Adam R, Ozzie S  FULL COLOURS: Jack A, Theo E, Henry G, Charlie H-B, Rowan K, Euan Mc, Jack P, Milo P, Seb S, Rory T, Stan W, Jack W  PLAYER OF THE SEASON: Jack W  MOST IMPROVED PLAYER: Theo E

play to clinch a 24-22 victory. While this devastating loss eliminated Kingswood from the National Cup, the manner of their fight and the commendable character demonstrated in overcoming such adversity remains the ultimate testament to the spirit of this team.

the win – a defining highlight of the year. Notable victories over Sherborne, Blundell's, Sir Thomas Rich’s, and Monmouth then followed.

...another step to further Kingswood’s reputation on the rugby circuit.

The National Cup run, however, delivered the season’s most profound drama and heartbreak. Kingswood faced Radley College in the second round. A bout of illness resulted in a depleted team taking the field, but they played with real resolve, to build a two-try lead with just twelve minutes left. Unfortunately, with injury adding to the chaos, Radley were able to power over the line in the final

The regular season began with a monumental 24-21 comeback victory away to Cheltenham College, culminating in a dramatic final sequence where Seb S’s match-saving chop tackle and Henry G’s crucial turnover sealed

The team can take great pride in the fact that they have demonstrated throughout the season that they can compete against the top rugby schools in the country and have taken another step to further Kingswood’s reputation on the rugby circuit.

1st XV 2nd XV 3rd XV U16A U16B U15A U15B U14A U14B U14C U13A U13B U13C U12A U12B U12C Cheltenham College

Bristol Grammar School

Bishop Wordsworth

Sherborne

Beechen Cliff

L C

Radley College

King's Worcester

Blundell's

Bryanston

King Edward's School

Queen Elizabeth Hospital

Sir Thomas Rich's

Haberdasher's Monmouth

Collegiate

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | SPORT

NETBALL This term has been nothing short of exceptional for Kingswood Netball.

ith an incredibly committed, enthusiastic, and talented group of players across every age group, the programme has gone from strength to strength, competing in over 180 matches against some of the strongest schools in the region. The introduction of the new courts has provided some of the finest training facilities in Bath, and we are incredibly grateful for the investment, which has allowed us to host fixtures and lessons in such an outstanding environment. Kingswood’s reputation for depth, determination, and that unmistakable competitive edge has once again set us apart, with an outstanding 114 victories this season. One of the standout moments came from the U16 squad, whose incredible journey to the Regional Finals followed a top-two county finish, proudly representing Avon on the regional stage. The Westwood teams have consistently fielded over 80 players every weekend – a true reflection of the passion and dedication within the programme. Progress across all squads has been remarkable, with the U13A team enjoying a phenomenal unbeaten season. Excitement is already building as they prepare for next year’s National Schools Tournament. Meanwhile, both the U14 and U15 squads made impressive runs in the Sisters in Sport competition, and there is huge anticipation surrounding

COLOURS & AWARDS  COLTS COLOURS: Iris G, Esme H, Livvy H, Gracie K  HALF COLOURS: Connie H, Elise H  FULL COLOURS: Iona R  OUTSTANDING PLAYER: Iona R  MOST IMPROVED PLAYER: Miya M

the U15s as they step into senior netball next season. At Senior level, the standard has been high. With five teams competing each week, Kingswood secured a series of convincing victories, including memorable performances against Clifton College and Dean Close. Special recognition must go to Emily H and Emmy L for their fantastic leadership of the 3rd team, as well as Lucia H-R for captaining the 4ths with such commitment and energy.

The 2nd team established themselves as one of the strongest squads on the circuit this season. Led brilliantly by captain Jess H, the side combined talent, determination, and incredible team chemistry. Asia N stood out in her final term, scoring an impressive number of goals and leaving a lasting mark on the squad. Beyond the wins and performances, one of the greatest privileges of school sport is the opportunity to play alongside close friends, creating memories that will last long after the final whistle.

1st VII

2nd VII

Bristol Grammar School

King's Bruton

Collegiate

Redmaids'

Clifton College

King Edward's School

Dauntsey's

Monkton Combe

Dean Close

Prior Park

D (1sts)

Badminton

Sandroyd Royal High Hayesfield Tormead School St. Swithun's School

SPORT | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

CONNIE H & IONA R, 1ST XI CO-CAPTAINS Although the results may not fully show it, this has been a hugely successful season for the 1st team. Facing some of the strongest schools in the county pushed the squad to grow enormously, with standout performances against Dean Close and Redmaids’ – both national finalists – where Kingswood narrowly lost by just one goal in each match. Defensively, Elise H and Miya M formed a formidable partnership, while Livvy H and Poppy C-D’s relentless work rate created countless interceptions. In attack, Sophia A’s drive and maturity shone throughout the season, while Esme H brought endless passion, energy, and positivity to the team. Ruth P proved to be a calm and dependable shooter, and Iris G combined incredible talent with complete humility, making the shooting circle such a privilege to be part of. We have shared fifteen years of friendship, from our very first netball sessions in Year 3 to leading the 1st team together. Captaining alongside one another has been an absolute privilege and something we will always treasure. This team has been such a special group of girls, and we will miss playing alongside every one of them. Thank you as well to all the staff for their unwavering support throughout the season, and especially to Mrs Sim for giving us such an unforgettable year – the Year 13s will miss you hugely.

3rd VII

4th VII

5th VII

U15A

U15B

U15C

U14A

U14B

U14C

U14D

U13A

U13B

U13C

U13D

U12A

U12B

U12C

U12D

U15D

L (As)

W W

L (3rds)

W W

W (As)

W (Bs)

L (As)

L (Bs)

L (As)

L (Bs)

L (As)

L (Bs)

W W

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | SPORT

BOYS’ HOCKEY Alfie M, 1st XI Captain 2026 was arguably the most successful season ever for Kingswood’s boys’ hockey teams. Including cup competitions, we played over 160 matches, the most ever, with an overall win percentage across the School of 72%.

veryone in Year 8 played a competitive fixture for the School, nearly 60 boys in Year 9 played a minimum of five matches and, once again, we fielded five senior teams. Add to that the U12s placing third in the region, the U15s getting to a National Plate Semi-final and the U14s reaching the Tier 2 National Finals, and it all amounted to a hugely pleasing term of hockey. The real highlight though were the U13s who actually made it to the Tier 1 finals which is a first for a Kingswood boys’ team and placed them in the top 8 schools in the country. It’s perhaps not surprising then that both Freddie C-J and Louie A were both included in the West Panthers squad for the U13 Regional tournament, with Louie going on to make selection for the England Lions as a result. Well done to everyone who got involved and a huge thank you to all the members of staff who give up their Saturdays, and beyond, every week to enable all of this to happen.

For the 1st XI, it all began in early January at the Cardiff Met invitational Tournament, which enabled the team to bond on and off the hockey pitch and lay the ground work for the season. There were four Year 11s – Sawan T, Sam M, Seb K and James S – who successfully made the step up and acquitted themselves well.

From Year 12, Ernie P was the only new addition and he enjoyed a fantastic debut season and would have strong claim to the Most Improved Player award. The other Year 12s all took another step forward in their second season, with Freddie S and Toby K stalwarts of the defence and Vivaan G establishing himself as the focal point of 1st XI

2nd XI

Dean Close

Prior Park

Beechen Cliff

King Edward's School

Monkton Combe

Sherborne

Dauntsey's

Cheltenham College

Collegiate

Bristol Grammar School

King's Gloucester

W W

Clifton College

Millfield

Warwick School RGS Worcester King's Bruton

Wells Cathedral

Clayesmore Lord Wandsworth Blundell's Island Free School Claremont

SPORT | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

the attack and gaining an initial England trial off the back of a really positive season. However, it was Mathis who was the surprise package as he finished comfortably as the team’s top scorer from his new position of left midfield.

COLOURS & AWARDS  COLTS COLOURS: Seb K, Sam M, James S, Sawan T  HALF COLOURS: Olly C, Jack P, Charlie W

There were also two Year 13 students who got their just reward for years of commitment to Kingswood hockey: Charlie W in midfield and Olly C in goal, who both finished their time at Kingswood as 1st XI regulars.

 FULL COLOURS: Tom B, George H, Alfie M, Tom S  IDRIS CUP: Alfie M  PLAYER OF THE SEASON: George H

Of the more established Year 13s, Jack P always brought great energy which is credit to him given his significant exploits on the 7s rugby circuit as well. Tom B further enhanced his reputation as a classy midfielder and added goals to his game this year. As did vicecaptain Tom S, who was resolute in defence but a goal threat at attacking penalty corners. Perhaps his most impressive attribute, though, is how Tom’s personable nature helped the newer members settle into the squad. Finally, the two players that have represented the 1st XI for a full three years: vice-captain George H and captain Alfie M. During those years, they have enjoyed two National Semifinals and this year cemented their position as the two most influential players in the side. It is fitting, therefore, that George claimed Player of the Season and Alfie was presented the Idris Cup for Outstanding 3rd XI

4th XI

5th XI

This team can take pride in the fact that they approached their hockey in the right way and fought hard for each other every week. In doing so, they came back from a 1-0 deficit four times to win matches. This competitiveness

U15A

U15B

U15C

U14A

U14B

U14C

U13A

U13B

U13C

W W

U13D

A great season in all respects. Looking forward to doing it all again in 2027! U13E

U13F

U13G

W W

and togetherness owes much to the qualities of Mr Jackson, who trained, pushed and encouraged them every step of the way, and supported them in being the best that they could be.

Contribution to Kingswood Hockey.

U12A

U12B

U12C

U12D

W W

L D

W W

W W W

W W W L

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | SPORT

CRICKET The cricket term is always pretty hectic and 2026 was no different. In amongst the inconvenience of exams and heatwaves, we managed to cram in well over 100 matches in just nine weeks.

hat a fantastic season it has been for girls' cricket! One of the real highlights has been the incredible growth of the game, with more girls than ever stepping up to play hard-ball cricket. Their confidence, skill and determination have been on display all season, resulting in some excellent performances and superb results. The pre-season tour to Uppingham set the tone for the summer, providing valuable match experience and some encouraging early results. A huge congratulations to Chloe B and Olivia P who have both represented the Wiltshire U18A team this season, and both have contributed well alongside Sophie R for their respective boys’ A teams. A special mention must also go to our U13A team, who were crowned County Champions after a fantastic unbeaten season. Seren J was deservedly named Player of the Match in the final, capping off a brilliant team performance.

COLOURS & AWARDS  COLTS COLOURS: Teddy Mc, James S, George W  HALF COLOURS: Joss A, Tom B, Tom S, Jimmy S  FULL COLOURS: Ed A, Harry B, Fred S  MOST IMPROVED PLAYER: Hector H  PLAYER OF THE SEASON: Freddie S

The future of girls' cricket at Kingswood has never looked brighter, and we can't wait to see what these talented players achieve next season. The Year 7 boys’ teams competed hard all season with Thomas C and Kai H showing up well. The U13 age group are arguably the most improved in the school. Theo W claiming two 5-wicket hauls for the As was evidence of that. James B, Reyansh C and Ralph H all also had excellent seasons. For the U14As, Ethan B has been a great addition, and he was the only other player in the School apart from Fred to score a century. He has been well supported by Harrison D and both made their 1st XI debuts towards the end of the season. For the Bs, who only lost one match and used 25 players, Arsan G and Will W, amongst many others, were the standouts. The U15s had to cope without some key players for the majority of the season

but all took turns to stand up and fill the void. In the Bs, Noah G performed consistently well as did Jackson C who at times was unplayable with his left arm swing bowling. In the ‘A’ team, Chloe B was the player of the season and Otto D the most improved.

...excellent performances and superb results. And with many schools struggling to raise 2nd teams this season, to have been able to field four senior teams on the same day for the first time ever this year is arguably the greatest measure of how cricket is flourishing at Kingswood. Harry W was the standout player in this landmark victory against Monkton 3rds and for the seconds and thirds, George H, Harry H, Barney H and Henry E were all key players.

SPORT | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

ED A, 1ST XI CAPTAIN The 1st XI have enjoyed one of the most successful seasons in recent memory. More importantly, we've been a team that genuinely enjoyed playing together. Our strong sense of camaraderie has been at the heart of everything we've achieved. The season began with a fantastic tour to Desert Springs in southern Spain, setting the tone for what followed. Highlights included a clean sweep against the Bath and Bristol schools, chasing 240 against King's Gloucester, scoring 220 in a T20 against Beechen Cliff and a memorable record-breaking victory over KES. Several players have made outstanding contributions. Tobias C returned from injury to score a superb 93 against the MCC. Our Year 11s have been exceptional: James S averaged close to 50 on his first full season, George W established himself as a genuine all-rounder, and Teddy Mc finished as leading wicket-taker with 21 wickets while also scoring nearly 400 runs. Hector H and Mathijs IdR formed a formidable spin partnership, Toby K contributed selflessly in every discipline, and Freddie S set the standard all season, scoring over 600 runs, sharing the wicket-keeping duties and providing invaluable support as vice-captain. Among my fellow leavers, the two Toms have made vital contributions with bat, ball and in the field, and I'll certainly miss playing alongside my twin brother, Joss. Harry B has led our bowling attack superbly over the past three years and has been an outstanding vice-captain. I'd also like to thank those whose efforts often go unseen: the catering team for their incredible match teas, especially during Cricket Week; our groundsman, Darren, whose excellent wickets have been a joy to play on; and all the coaches and staff who have dedicated countless evenings and Saturdays to supporting Kingswood cricket. When I joined Kingswood seven years ago, I was told that everyone finds their place here. I feel incredibly fortunate to have found mine in cricket, and I'm grateful for the memories, friendships and experiences this team has given me.

1st XI

2nd XI

3rd XI

Clifton College

Bristol Grammar

The Crypt

W L W W

Dean Close

King's Gloucester

4th XI

U15A

U15B

U14A

U14B

Westonbirt Prior Park

U13A

U13B

U13C

U12A

U12B

U12C

Monkton Combe

Beechen Cliff

Collegiate

King Edward's

Dauntsey's

XL Club

MCC

Old Boys XI

Ivanhoe Grammar

QEH

CUP COMPETITIONS Round 1

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | SPORT

TENNIS Masha R & Harry W, 1st Captains It has been another fantastic tennis season at Kingswood and there have been many players who have made such a significant contribution this year.

ne of the best things about tennis at Kingswood is watching players grow. It's not just about winning matches - it's about seeing serves become more consistent, volleys more confident, and players stepping onto the court believing they can compete with anyone. This season we've seen huge improvements across every year group, and with so much talent coming through, the future of Kingswood tennis looks incredibly bright. Starting with Year 7, special mentions go to Emilie DV-L, Rose H and Nina U, who have all shown tremendous potential and embraced school tennis with real enthusiasm. Hugo T has also impressed with his performances, while Hannah E deserves recognition as one of our most improved players, developing her game enormously over the year.

Some of our greatest successes have come in doubles, where communication, trust and teamwork matter just as much as skill.

In Year 8, Amelie B and Sophie P have stood out for their consistency from the baseline, with strong all-round games and impressive performances in matches. Kitty B also deserves a special mention for making huge strides in her game. Our Year 9s have been a real strength this year. On the girls' side, Iris P and Skye B, along with Indie H and Edie G, have been fantastic for the A team. They've embraced every challenge and competed with determination. On the boys' side, Tom C, Tom P and Ben B have represented Kingswood with real commitment, energy and team spirit every time they've stepped onto the court. In Year 10, Immy H-B and Katie B have produced some outstanding performances, already making their mark in the senior teams. Sasha F and Fig W also deserve recognition for their dedication to training, their willingness to compete, and the infectious enthusiasm they bring every time. Of course, tennis isn't just about individual performances. Some of

our greatest successes have come in doubles, where communication, trust and teamwork matter just as much as skill. Rebecca L and Isabel D have been one of our most reliable and successful girls' pairings this season, consistently producing excellent results under pressure. On the boys' side, Jax M and Jonty L-S have formed a formidable partnership, playing with confidence and a real understanding of each other's game to achieve an outstanding record together. It has also been great to see more mixed tennis this year. Mixed matches have brought together players from across the School and created some memorable moments throughout the season. Special mention also goes to Liv H, whose enthusiasm has made it a privilege to play alongside as doubles partner. As we come to the end of another tennis season, we would like to recognise our Year 13 players. Alongside their studies and many other commitments, they continued to represent the school with enthusiasm, dedication and a positive attitude throughout the year.

SPORT | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

On the girls' side, a special mention goes to Lucia H-R. Her commitment to the team has been exceptional. She hardly missed a single match all season and has been a fantastic example of dedication and reliability. On the boys' side, special recognition should go to Ed D and Charlie W, who have been excellent over the years. Their willingness to represent the School and support the team has been greatly appreciated. Thank you to every player and coach who has represented Kingswood this season. Whether you've played every fixture or stepped in when the team needed you, you've represented the school with resilience, sportsmanship and pride. Every practice, every match and every point has helped make this another memorable year for Kingswood Tennis. We hope this season has inspired even more of you to pick up a racket, keep improving and enjoy everything that makes tennis such a brilliant sport.

COLOURS & AWARDS  COLTS COLOURS: Callum F, Esme H, Livvy H, Sam M  HALF COLOURS: Ed D, Harry W  FULL COLOURS: Maria R  MOST IMPROVED PLAYERS: Imogen H-B, Freddie K  THE BLEATHMAN CUP: Rebecca L

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | SPORT

ATHLETICS Ferdie G, Captain The 2026 athletics season was a memorable one, characterised by an exciting range of new events on our fixture list that allowed our athletes to experience and enjoy various formats of competition.

n our standard meets, Kingswood competed superbly against strong fields at both Dauntsey’s and Marlborough College. Beyond these traditional fixtures, we entered two teams into the prestigious English Schools Track and Field Cup. Our Intermediate Girls team performed outstandingly, progressing all the way to win the Regional B Final in Exeter.

Through sheer determination, the girls made significant improvements to their overall points score, ultimately placing an impressive 20th nationally. We also enjoyed the fast-paced Nitro Athletics meet at Marlborough College, where our senior teams continued their historic dominance, backed by fantastic individual displays of grit and resilience. On the local stage, the BANES District Championships saw a large contingent of Kingswood athletes perform exceptionally well, with many securing qualification for the county championships. Our senior athletes led by example, winning the Avon County Championships. It was a proud moment for the School when Josh G, who has brilliantly balanced his GCSE revision with his training at the university, was on hand to collect the Avon County

...historic dominance, backed by fantastic individual displays of grit and resilience. Championships trophy from the Chair of Avon County Athletics - our very own Mr Matthews. From there, several athletes progressed to the South West Regionals, where Nisek T and Olivia P excelled, both booking their well-deserved spots at the National Championships over the summer. Though the second half of the term brought challenging weather, forcing the unfortunate cancellation of the

SPORT | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

Dauntsey’s Quadrathlon and the BANES Minor Championships, the competitive spirit remained high. A major highlight this year was the development of our Lower School athletes, who benefited from a multitude of competitive opportunities. It has been wonderful to welcome so many new faces to the squad, including our Year 8 boys who are brand new to the sport. Among them, Max H has emerged as a really exciting sprinter for the future, while Noah S and Charlie P have competed with incredible grit across a multitude of events. Individual successes have been plentiful across all year groups. In the distance events, Hannah M and Cosi D were incredibly consistent performers. In the field, Isla W seriously impressed everyone with her high jump, while Amelie B achieved excellent results in both the sprints and long jump. In Year 9, Olivia P has been exceptional whenever she competed, balancing her athletics brilliantly alongside playing high-level competitive cricket. She has been joined by Immy P and an exciting group of new Year 9s who all contributed brilliantly to the team. Our Year 10 girls demonstrated a magnificent collective team effort at the English Schools Regionals. Within this group, Elspeth M impressed with a series of personal bests, while Amy M excelled on the track, representing both Kingswood and her county on the regional circuit. Pippa C and Pippa F also competed strongly across the board, showing great versatility across multiple events. At the senior end of the School, the heavy pressure of public exams limited competitive opportunities. Outside of school fixtures, Tom W excelled in the 800 metres, achieving a stellar personal best in the 800m and performing brilliantly at the South West Regionals. In Year 11, Ewan S managed the intense pressures of GCSEs while maintaining a strict training regime, and took it up a gear as he headed off to the National Championships to compete in the 800 metres. Huge congratulations to everyone who represented Kingswood athletics this season, and a final thank you to the dedicated staff who invested so many hours into training and competitions.

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | SPORT

CROSS COUNTRY Ferdie G, Captain The cross country team provided a superb season, with Kingswood continuing to enter high numbers for fixtures and being the best represented school by far on the cross country circuit.

he students have worked incredibly hard, representing Kingswood impeccably, and had great fun taking part in all events. Whilst we won numerous medals again this season, most importantly, the team have been excellent supporters of each other and welcomed new members with enthusiasm and positivity. As well as hosting the BANES XC Championships, Avon Schools Championships and our home fixture – the Kingswood Cross Challenge, we also attended over a dozen away fixtures over the two terms, never once returning empty-handed. Noah S, Ewan S, and Ferdie G all picked up medals on a regular basis. As well as also regularly medalling in races, our junior girls of Hannah M, Cosima D, Liv L, and Florence B did superbly well to qualify for the National Cross Country Cup Final and were supported in the final by Rose H and Emilie de V-L. The team placed 4th overall with some very impressive individual finishing positions in the race itself: Hannah 4th; Liv 7th; and Cosi 13th, out of 200 of the best runners in their age category in the country. There were also individual achievements outside of Kingswood XC this season. Twenty of our runners qualified for the Avon Schools Cross Country, five of whom competed in the South West Schools, with Liv running a superb race to take 2nd place in the Minor Girls and, in the Junior Girls, Hannah and Cosi finished 7th and 9th and 1st and 2nd for Avon respectively.

Tom W, Cosi and Hannah all competed in the English Schools Cross Country Championships at Sefton Park in Liverpool. The races each contained around 350 runners, showcasing the very best talent in the country. They all ran well, but in particular Hannah finished in an incredible 39th position, with Cosi also making the top 100 in 81st.

AWARDS  COLTS COLOURS: Ewan S  HALF COLOURS: Hannah A, Risako S  FULL COLOURS: Ferdie G  MOST SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION AND MOST IMPROVED RUNNER: Elena H

HOUSE XC Our house races across all age categories were well contested and represented, with some excellent competition taking place through all areas of the field. HOUSE XC

WINNERS (Girls, Boys)

WINNING HOUSE

Westwood (Y7-8)

Liv L, Noah S

Phoenix (Girls and Boys)

Inters (Y9-10)

Rebecca L, Reggie P

Fonthill, Upper

Seniors (Y11-13)

Elena H, Charlie H

School, Upper

HOUSE XC RELAYS

WINNING TEAM

MEDALS

Westwood (Y7-8)

Mulberry 7A (Girls) Phoenix 8A (Boys)

Anna B, Rose H, Liv L George J, Edward L, Noah S

Inters (Y9-10)

School, Fonthill, Hall

Rebecca L, Rachel M, Hattie P, Fig W, Rose W Luke C, Sayan D, Lucas H, Tom P

Seniors (Y11-13)

School, Hall

Elena H, Sofia S, Maddie W Theo E, Ferdie G, Noah Mc-L, Ewan S

Overall wins for Hall, School, Phoenix and Mulberry across all age categories.

Finally, it with sadness that we lose our captain and vice captains. Ferdie has done an excellent job this year as captain, ably assisted by Risako and Hannah as vice-captains and have been superb role models and catalysts of our great team spirit. They have all been great servants to cross country during their time at

Kingswood, Ferdie being a constant and high-performing presence in the team for the last five years and Hannah and Risako have shown excellent enthusiasm and commitment to prove that it is never too late to take up a new sport and discover new passions and interests on your Kingswood journey!

SPORT | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

FOOTBALL Charlie H, 1st XI Captain The 2025-26 football season has been one of the most encouraging and progressive in recent years for Kingswood, with both the 1st and 2nd XI showing significant development, resilience and competitiveness across the campaign.

or the 1st XI, the season was defined by the group’s growth into a genuinely competitive and organised side capable of matching some of the strongest school teams in the region. Entering the Somerset Cup for the first time in the School’s history proved to be an important milestone and the team immediately demonstrated both quality and belief with impressive victories over Kings of Wessex and Downside. Particularly pleasing was the balance within the squad, with experienced players such as Charlie H, Ben B, George G and George W leading superbly, while newer and younger players stepped into 1st team football with confidence and maturity. Throughout the season, the team developed a recognisable style of play based on controlled possession, energetic pressing and attacking width. Strong home victories against sides such as Dauntsey’s and Downside highlighted the attacking potential within the squad, while performances in tighter fixtures showed increasing tactical maturity and resilience. The narrow quarter-final victory against Wellington perhaps best demonstrated

the discipline and organisation that developed over the course of the year, with the defence showing real composure under pressure. Arguably the defining moment of the season came in the Somerset Cup semi-final against Millfield. Although the game ended in a narrow defeat, Kingswood more than matched one of the country’s leading sporting schools for large periods and showed the progress the programme has made in a relatively short period of time. Similarly, the performance against QEH, despite another defeat, earned significant praise from the opposition and reinforced the feeling that the group had developed into a side capable of competing with some of the strongest schools in the South West. The season also highlighted the increasing depth of football at Kingswood. The 2nd XI enjoyed an excellent campaign of their own, securing several impressive victories and consistently playing with energy, determination and strong team spirit. Wins over KES, Wycliffe and Beechen Cliff were particularly notable, with

players such as Seb S, Rory T and Ted M making major contributions across the season. The team demonstrated a growing confidence in possession and often responded strongly to setbacks within matches, showing real character and resilience. Perhaps most importantly, the relationship between the squads became increasingly evident as the season progressed. A number of players moved successfully between teams, with several 2nd XI players stepping into 1st team football and contributing positively when called upon. This reflected not only the improving depth within the programme, but also the positive culture and togetherness that developed across all senior football. Overall, this has been a hugely positive season for Kingswood football. Results were important, but more significant was the clear progress in standards, belief, competitiveness and squad depth. Both the 1st and 2nd XI can look back on campaigns full of commitment, memorable performances and encouraging development, providing an excellent platform for the future.

AWARDS Both Ben B and Charlie H were awarded Full Colours at the end of the season and will forever be the first two Kingswood students to be recognised in this way for football. George G was awarded Half Colours, and Ben was awarded Player of the Season.

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | SPORT

SWIMMING Ed D, Captain The 2025-26 swimming season was another highly successful year for the School, with strong performances across all age groups and a number of memorable achievements in both local fixtures and national competition.

hroughout the academic year, swimmers demonstrated excellent commitment, teamwork and determination, representing the School with pride. The year began with an impressive series of gala performances. Against Westonbirt, both the Year 7 and Year 8 boys’ and girls’ teams secured convincing victories, setting a positive tone for the season ahead. This early success reflected the enthusiasm and depth of talent within the younger squads.

A gala against Monkton provided another excellent opportunity for swimmers across the U13, U15 and Senior age groups to compete at a high level. The boys’ teams achieved a well-earned overall victory, while the girls delivered a series of close and competitive races throughout the event. The standard of swimming on display highlighted the continued progress being made across the programme.

Further success followed in the gala against Marlborough, where the U16 and Senior boys produced another winning performance. The girls’ team competed strongly to finish third overall against tough opposition, showing resilience and determination in every race. The Year 7 boys’ and girls’ gala against KES also provided valuable competitive experience for many swimmers making their debut in school competition. The Spring term brought additional opportunities for development and success. The gala against Stonar and KES featured Year 7 and Year 8 swimmers and continued to showcase the strength of the junior squads. Many swimmers produced personal best performances and gained important racing experience in a competitive environment. One of the highlights of the season was competing in the Bath Cup Relay Competition at the Olympic Swimming Pool at Queen Elizabeth Park, a prestigious national event featuring more than 80 schools from across the country. Competing at this level was an outstanding experience for all involved and the school performed exceptionally well. The boys’ team achieved a remarkable result by qualifying for the

Small Schools Finals in both the 4 x 100m freestyle relay and the 4 x 50m individual medley relay. Reaching finals at such a highly competitive national event was an incredible achievement and reflected the hard work and dedication shown by the swimmers throughout the year. The girls’ team at the Bath Cup consisted largely of a young development squad who embraced the challenge superbly. Their performances and attitude throughout the competition were extremely encouraging and provide great promise for future seasons. The season concluded with Colours awards. Colts Colours were awarded to Ben, Albert and Ewan in recognition of their contribution and commitment to school swimming. Full Colours were awarded to Roger and Ed for their outstanding performances and leadership within the team. In addition, Roger was presented with the Tench Cup for Most Successful Swimmer, a fitting reward for an exceptional season. Overall, this has been a highly positive and rewarding year for school swimming, with success achieved across all age groups and exciting potential for the future.

SPORT | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

ATHLETIC DEVELOPMENT Athletic development at Kingswood is a true whole-school affair, starting right from the foundation of the student journey.

n Years 7, 8 and 9, students take part in physical literacy lessons focused on mastering fundamental movement skills and exploring various types of training. This groundwork ensures they are excellently equipped to transition into the dedicated athletic development sessions available throughout the school day. This year, we have been delighted to expand this offering, providing a wider range of training opportunities than ever before. It has been fantastic to witness the immense passion, curiosity, and determination our students have shown towards their training, alongside a genuine eagerness to learn more about health and fitness.

The training environment remains remarkably supportive, positive, and inclusive, successfully uniting students from all areas of the School through a common objective of self-improvement. It is inspiring to see elite, aspiring athletes training alongside peers who are simply looking to reach their own personal fitness goals. Consequently, the school gym and Fitness Studio are always a hive of activity during lunchtimes and after school, and we are incredibly fortunate to have such engaged students. Furthermore, our facilities and programme have been significantly enhanced this year through an exciting partnership with British Weightlifting,

...the school gym and Fitness Studio are always a hive of activity... providing invaluable professional guidance and support. Well done to all the students who have made time to train so consistently throughout the year; we eagerly look forward to next year and the great memories that await.

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | CO-CURRICULAR

OUTDOOR PURSUITS DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARD For many students, the Duke of Edinburgh's Award is one of the most rewarding experiences of their school journey. It offers them the chance to step outside their comfort zone, develop new skills and make lasting memories with friends.

he expedition section is often the highlight, combining teamwork, navigation and camping with the additional physical challenge of carrying their own equipment and supplies and cooking their own meals. The following reports look back at this year’s expeditions.

BRONZE The Bronze expedition took place in glorious weather in June, with a record-breaking 109 Year 10 students completing two days on the Mendip Hills. The groups walked one of two routes, both taking in the popular Cheddar Cliffs to the east of Cheddar Gorge, Burrington Combe and the delightful Chew Valley. The participants coped admirably with the challenge of two days on expedition, developing their navigation, teamwork and resilience as they progressed.

CO-CURRICULAR | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

SILVER The Silver expedition saw 47 Year 11 students heading off for Exmoor where they completed three days of hiking and camped independently for two nights. Conditions were glorious but a national heatwave made hiking with heavy packs a challenge. Spirits remained high, however, with all groups being supportive of each other and working well together. Cloud Farm campsite offered some fantastic scenery at the end of their first day and students were able to cool off with a paddle in the river. On the second day, some fantastic sea views eased the tough walking along the coastal path, and everyone completed the third day of walking with excellent navigational skills on display.

Congratulations to all our students who have now completed their Bronze, Silver and Gold awards. GOLD At the start of the summer break, 27 Year 12 students enjoyed a very successful Gold DofE expedition to the Lake District. Blessed with largely clear skies and sunny weather, the groups were able to enjoy the splendid views from their routes. Highlights included the ascent of High Raise and crossing Stake Pass, cooling off in Grisdale Tarn, and a scenic walk along Ullswater to finish. The groups coped very well with some extremely warm weather which made carrying big backpacks up steep hills all the more challenging.

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | CO-CURRICULAR

TEN TORS The Ten Tors challenge is run by the British Army and involves 2400 students from across the South West.

ver 80 Kingswood students started the Ten Tors training in February and all deserve credit for participating and completing challenging walks in some very difficult conditions both locally and on Dartmoor. The quality of all participants involved in the training meant that team selection was incredibly competitive this year. Following five separate training expeditions over the previous few months, three teams were eventually selected to complete the final Ten Tors challenge on Dartmoor in May. Participants had to independently walk, navigate, manage themselves, camp, cook and make decisions across a distance of 35 miles (Year 10s) and 45 miles (Year 12s). All teams successfully completed the challenge, demonstrating leadership, resilience, team work and cheerfulness in the face of considerable adversity. Impressively, two of the teams were the fastest on their route and the Year 10 teams finished only five minutes apart.

FINAL TEAMS 35A

R. Lloyd (C), E. Bulgin, N. Giles, J. Longland, E. Marke, B. Sainsbury

35B

E. Jotcham (C), A. Bourne, E. Godwin, F. Karunaratne, F. Moshiri, N. Tumbahangphe

E. Padfield (C), O. Richards, E. Robinson, T. Sneddon, A. Tabata, I. Tonge

CO-CURRICULAR | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

KS3 HIKES

tudents in Years 7, 8 and 9 enjoyed a series of successful hiking expeditions across some of the South West's most scenic landscapes. Year 7 completed a 9-mile trek across the Marlborough Downs, taking in the historic sites of Barbury Castle, Avebury Stone Circle and the ancient Ridgeway. Year 8 tackled an 8-mile circular walk through the Mendips, with stunning views from Beacon Batch and Dolebury Warren, while Year 9's hike from Priddy included spectacular vistas of the Somerset Levels, Glastonbury Tor and Ebor Gorge. Blessed with mostly favourable weather, all three groups demonstrated excellent determination, teamwork and enthusiasm throughout their walks, making the hikes an enjoyable experience for students and staff alike.

OUTDOOR SURVIVAL

he Outdoor Survival activity at Kingswood gives students the opportunity to develop practical skills, resilience and confidence in the great outdoors, preparing them for tougher challenges such as the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award or Ten Tors. Through activities such as shelter building, navigation, campcraft and survival challenges, students learn to work together, solve problems and embrace challenges beyond the classroom.

MOUNTAINEERING

n June, a group of fourteen Year 13 students set off to Eryri National Park (Snowdonia) to take on the iconic British mountaineering challenge: ascending all 15 of the 3000ft Welsh peaks over a weekend via their more challenging routes. Despite a wet and windy start, the group remained positive as they crossed the Carneddau before enjoying much improved weather on the second day to climb the famous ridges of Tryfan and Bristly Ridge. The expedition concluded with an ascent of Crib Goch and Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), where the students were rewarded with spectacular views from the summit. For many of the students, this trip represented the culmination of years of outdoor pursuits at Kingswood including year group hikes, Ten Tors and Duke of Edinburgh and with the skills they have developed, we hope that they will continue to have many years of adventures in the future.

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | OVERSEAS TRIPS

HOLLAND

PRE-SEASON HOCKEY TOUR

Before the year kicked off, the girls’ hockey tour to Holland proved an unforgettable pre-season experience, full of challenges, achievements, and memories.

he trip began with a strong first performance vs Zeewolde, winning 3-1 thanks to goals from Iris G, Livvy H, and Jess H, with Isla G impressing on her debut. The second day brought a productive training session, and another excellent result versus Stichtse: a 3-0 victory, highlighted by Livvy’s brace and Jess’s reverse scoop, with Rosie R earning Player of the Match. On the third day, the girls headed into Amsterdam following Mr Jackson’s impromptu sand dune challenge. A canal cruise, shopping, and all kinds of waffles gave the group a chance to relax and explore together. On the final day, the girls benefited from a coaching session led by Dutch U18 coach Daniel McBride before facing their toughest opposition, Rosmalen. Despite Livvy’s fine equaliser, our players narrowly lost 2-1 but gained valuable lessons from the contest; Baci D was awarded Player of the Match. An end of tour presentation finished off the day, a nice touch from the Upper Sixth, where Laura M was awarded Player of the Tour. Beyond the impressive hockey culture, the tour built friendships and got our players closer to where they want to be with their performance.

OVERSEAS TRIPS | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

MADRID

SPANISH EXCHANGE 2025

In October, fifteen students from Years 10 and 12 took part in the Spanish Exchange, spending one week in Madrid.

uring their stay, students were hosted by Spanish families from the Leonardo da Vinci School in Moralzarzal and took part in a range of enriching excursions to nearby cities, including Segovia, Ávila and Alcalá de

Henares, the birthplace of Cervantes. They also had the opportunity to attend lessons in a Spanish school, sample traditional dishes, and experience everyday life in Spain, all while practising their Spanish and immersing themselves in the culture.

In March, our Spanish counterparts visited Kingswood for the return leg of the exchange, during which they enjoyed visits to Bristol, Wells, Glastonbury, Bath and Oxford as well as some fun activities with their host families. Many thanks to all those that took part in these culturally enriching trips.

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | OVERSEAS TRIPS

ICELAND

YEAR 11 GEOGRAPHY TRIP 2025

In October, 56 Year 11 Geography students took part in an unforgettable five-day trip to Iceland.

he students were immediately introduced to Iceland’s dramatic landscapes through lava tube caving after arriving on the first afternoon. Over the next few days, students were then able to experience Iceland’s unique tectonic setting as they travelled along Iceland’s dramatic south coast. Along the way, they explored stunning natural features such as waterfalls, black sand beaches, basalt cliffs and glacial lagoons. Notable highlights included a boat trip among floating icebergs, walking on a glacier and the chance to walk behind a 60-metre-high waterfall. The classic Golden Circle route was also experienced, with visits to Geysir to see the famous hot springs, and Thingvellir National Park, where students were able to stand between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The trip concluded with a walk around Reykjavik and a relaxing swim in one of the city’s geothermal heated pools - a well-earned rest after an inspiring week. Thank you to all the Year 11 students, whose enthusiasm made the trip so memorable.

OVERSEAS TRIPS | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

BARCELONA

A LEVEL GEOGRAPHY TRIP 2025

In October half term, A Level Geography students travelled to Barcelona to explore a range of different themes and places which they have been studying.

he first full day was spent focusing on coastal geography, where students carried out beach profiles and investigated coastal management strategies. This allowed them to apply key geographical skills and better understand how coastlines are shaped and protected. For the next three days, the group travelled into Barcelona where they were able to explore the evidence for, and impacts of, the rebranding and regeneration of this once-declining city. Students spent time in some of the more modern areas such as District @22 and the Poblenou, as well as exploring some less glamorous areas such as the El Ravel district with

local guide and legend ‘Dutch Derek’. They were given a guided tour of the old town by a Catalan guide who explained the history and struggle of the Catalan people to maintain their identity in the face of Spanish unification. The tour group stayed at a beachside hotel in Sitges, a beautiful medieval town where they were able to relax, enjoy an evening ice cream and a game of beach volleyball. The trip was a great success, it allowed students the opportunity to explore in real life so many of the concepts and theories they have studied in the classroom, as well as getting to know one of Europe’s most exciting and forward thinking cities.

...explore in real life so many of the concepts and theories they have studied in the classroom...

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | OVERSEAS TRIPS

ITALY

DESIGN, TECHNOLOGY & ENGINEERING TRIP

In October, the Design, Technology and Engineering department took 33 students from Years 11, 12 and 13 on an incredible trip to Italy.

he trip began in Florence where they visited the Gucci Museum, exploring how their products have evolved over time, before heading to the Pitti Palace to admire some art and, of course, enjoy the first taste of authentic Italian gelato from the shop that claims to have invented it. At the Salvatore Ferragamo Museum, our students learned how rising material costs inspired innovation, leading to the creation of the wedge and ballet shoes. Then came a climb up the Tower of Florence, offering spectacular views, followed by a visit to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore to see its famous dome and ancient mosaics dating back to 500 AD. Students sampled plenty of local pizza and pasta, and a few brave ones even tried the legendary Florentine steak. The group then travelled from Tuscany to Bologna to visit the Lamborghini Museum, where the rare, one-off cars left everyone in awe. At Ducati, they toured the manufacturing facilities, where several students - and even Ms Taibi discovered a new passion for motorbikes! After more excellent Tuscan food, they visited Ferrari, touring their track, facilities, and world-class museum. On the final day, they headed to Pisa to climb yet another famous tower and admire its magnificent cathedral before heading home.

OVERSEAS TRIPS | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

SEVILLE

SPANISH TRIP 2026

In February, a group of forty students enjoyed four nights in Seville, Andalusia.

asting no time, they were up bright and early on the first day for a full day tour of the historic old town of Seville. They enjoyed time in the historic cathedral, one of the biggest in the world, where students were able to see the burial place of Christopher Colombus. After a wonderful tapas lunch, students spent the afternoon in the Arabic palace, the Alcazar, a spectacular building where the Arabic influence on Spain can truly be experienced. Day two involved a coach trip to the city of Jerez, the home of sherry and a very authentic Spanish city. The group enjoyed visiting the Arabic palace and then time in a local food market. Following this they spent a few hours on a local beach.

...spectacular building where the Arabic influence on Spain can truly be experienced. The final full day was spent in Seville and the Triana district. This is the traditional quarter over the river and, as the group walked along the river, they enjoyed views of the Torre de Oro, the building that was used to keep the gold brought back by the Spanish from South America in the 15th and 16th century. A good time was had by all.

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | OVERSEAS TRIPS

CALIFORNIA

COMPUTER SCIENCE STUDY TOUR 2026

In the Spring term, a group of students and staff returned from a study tour to California, an experience that combined academic enrichment, cultural exploration, and collaborative learning. The itinerary also included a workshop session connected to the technology sector, where students collaborated on media projects and developed practical skills. A team challenge in an escape room encouraged problemsolving and teamwork, with participants successfully completing the task ahead of time. Students also experienced emerging transport technology through an autonomous vehicle ride, offering insight into future mobility solutions. On the final day, the group visited the Exploratorium, where interactive exhibits encouraged hands-on learning and curiosity across a range of scientific disciplines. Throughout the trip, students demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and enthusiasm, and returned with new perspectives, strengthened friendships, and a deeper understanding of both technological innovation and the natural environment. The visit highlighted the value of experiential learning and will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on participants’ academic and personal development.

he trip provided participants with the opportunity to engage directly with leading centres of innovation while also experiencing some of the state’s most iconic landscapes and landmarks. The group departed in the early morning and arrived in California ready to begin a busy programme of visits. Early activities focused on Silicon Valley, where students observed the culture of technological innovation firsthand. Highlights included views of Apple Park’s distinctive campus and the surrounding technology ecosystem, as well as seeing Google’s campus environment and the nearby academic setting of Stanford University. These visits offered valuable context for understanding the history and future direction of computing and entrepreneurship.

Time in San Francisco allowed the group to explore the city’s distinctive geography and culture. Students walked through neighbourhoods, experienced the city’s famous hills, and learned about local history, including the significance of Alcatraz Island. Although weather conditions prevented a planned visit to Yosemite National Park, the group instead crossed the Golden Gate Bridge, experiencing the dramatic conditions of wind and rain that became a memorable part of the trip. Further travel along the California coast included stops in Monterey and Pebble Beach, where students observed coastal ecosystems and scenery. The journey along the Big Sur coastline provided an opportunity to appreciate the region’s natural beauty.

OVERSEAS TRIPS | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

MARRAKESH

FRENCH TRIP 2026

At the start of the Easter holidays, the French department embarked on an unforgettable journey to Marrakesh, offering students a truly immersive experience in a city full of vibrant colours, fascinating culture, and exciting discoveries.

he trip allowed students to explore the bustling souks, savour delicious local dishes, and admire the exquisite gardens, while also gaining a deep appreciation for the rich tradition of Moroccan craftsmanship. Students had the chance to reflect on Morocco’s colonial history, gaining insight into the enduring French influence that has shaped the country. A highlight of the trip was the visit to the Atlas foothills, where students learned about the Berber culture and encountered breathtaking landscapes. The desert’s unique atmosphere left an indelible impression, as did the stunning visit to Aït Ben Haddou, a site famous for its dramatic beauty and its role in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones.

The desert’s unique atmosphere left an indelible impression... Beyond the sights, hands-on experiences such as a Moroccan cooking class and a calligraphy workshop added another layer of richness to the programme. Throughout the trip, students demonstrated remarkable enthusiasm, curiosity, and an openness to learning, developing independence, confidence, and a heightened sense of cultural awareness.

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | OVERSEAS TRIPS

BERLIN The first few days of the Easter holidays saw 33 students and four staff travel to Berlin for the Year 10 IGCSE History trip.

t was a rewarding and memorable experience as students explored key sites that brought their studies to life. Visits included the Olympiastadion Berlin, built for the 1936 Olympics under the Nazi regime, and the sobering and thought-provoking Sachsenhausen concentration camp. Students were consistently engaged, focused, and a pleasure to spend time with, approaching each visit with maturity and curiosity. The final day provided a welcome contrast, with good weather enjoyed in the Tiergarten, alongside some football and shopping, before taking in panoramic views from the Berlin TV Tower.

YEAR 10 HISTORY TRIP

OVERSEAS TRIPS | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

FRENCH ALPS YEAR 9 SKI TRIP

The first Saturday of the holidays saw 48 Year 9s head to Les Menuires in the French Alps for the annual ski trip.

fter a day of logistics sorting boots and skis, students were ready to hit the slopes.

Split into five ski groups, they headed out into fresh snow for their first lessons. The weather stayed like this for a few days until the sun broke through on Wednesday which led to some fantastic conditions and great photo opportunities for the rest of the week.

After skiing, the group participated in evening activities including the luge and quiz night, with plenty of time to explore the town as well. The students were impeccably behaved and should all be commended for everyone skiing every single day of the trip (a rare occurrence!). No broken bones marks the sign of a good ski trip and all returned safely at the end of the week!

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | OVERSEAS TRIPS

DESERT SPRINGS

1ST XI PRE-SEASON CRICKET TOUR

Ahead of the cricket season, the 1st XI cricket squad travelled to Desert Springs in the south of Spain for their pre-season tour.

lessed with outstanding weather throughout, the team was able to play five competitive matches across four days against strong opposition. These fixtures provided an excellent opportunity for all players to contribute, gain valuable match experience, and sharpen their skills.

Just as important as the on-field performances were the activities away from cricket as the squad made full use of the outstanding facilities at the Desert Springs resort. Most importantly, staff at the resort and other schools took the time to comment on how impressed they were with the attitude, behaviour, and conduct of the Kingswood students, which reflects great credit on the team and the School. It was a highly successful and enjoyable tour, both in terms of cricketing development and team cohesion and prepared the team well ahead of the season.

OVERSEAS TRIPS | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

SURFING IN SOMO Our first-ever surf trip to Somo, Spain was a fantastic success. With 66 students taking part, the week was full of fun, laughter, and plenty of time in the water.

lthough the waves were on the smaller side, they provided ideal conditions for learning, and it was brilliant to see so many students grow in confidence and improve their surfing throughout the week. Away from the beach, students enjoyed a memorable visit to San Sebastián, where they explored the city, sampled the local culture, and made the most of the sunshine. The biggest success of the trip, however, was the students themselves. All 66 were outstanding throughout the week and represented the School superbly with their enthusiasm, kindness, and impeccable behaviour. A huge thank you to all the staff who gave up their time and energy to make the trip possible. We hope this is the first of many successful surf trips.

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | OVERSEAS TRIPS

RHINELAND

SUMMER 2026

At the start of the summer break, a group of students enjoyed a fantastic trip to the Rhineland.

espite a delayed coach departure, spirits remained high as the group travelled to Germany via Koblenz, where they visited the famous Deutsches Eck before continuing to their hotel for an early night ahead of a busy few days. The second day began with a visit to St. Goar for some morning shopping and several waffles, before boarding a scenic Rhine River cruise to Rüdesheim. On arrival, the group took the cable car high above the vineyards to the impressive Niederwald Monument, enjoying spectacular views across the Rhine Valley. After returning to the town, students had time to explore the charming streets and shops of this traditional German town. In the afternoon, they cooled off from the glorious sunshine with a visit to a local Freibad (outdoor swimming pool) before enjoying some evening free time in a nearby park.

Day three started with a visit to the Haribo factory outlet, where students stocked up on all manner of sweets and treats. They then headed to Phantasialand for a full day of excitement. Popular rides included Black Mamba, FLY and Taron, which quickly became firm favourites. In the evening, the group took a walk into Boppard, where Miss Evans treated everyone to an ice cream before some games in the park and a final evening of packing, including any of the Haribo which were promised to family members! The journey home began the following day, travelling through Belgium and crossing the Channel by ferry before arriving safely back in Bath to the sound of ‘Du Bist Gut Genug’. The group demonstrated excellent behaviour, enthusiasm and sense of adventure which helped make it a truly wonderful few days.

OVERSEAS TRIPS | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

BUDAPEST

CHORAL TOUR 2026

At 2.30am on a warm July morning, 23 musicians and four staff gathered outside the Music School to begin Kingswood’s latest overseas music tour.

ollowing the success of Barcelona in 2024, the choir travelled to Budapest, bringing together singers from Years 7–13 for a week of music-making and cultural exploration. After arriving via Heathrow, the choir settled into their hotel near Budapest’s historic Castle District before visiting the Hospital in the Rock, a former wartime bunker beneath Castle Hill. Students were captivated by its extraordinary history and gained a deeper understanding of Hungary’s experiences during the twentieth century. The following day, the choir travelled to Lake Balaton, enjoying a boat trip, time in the water, and team activities in the lakeside town of Siófok. The day concluded with the first concert of the tour at the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption. The choir’s varied programme, ranging from sacred choral works to lighter secular pieces, was warmly received by the local audience. Exploring Budapest the next day, students visited the Hungarian State Opera House, learning about its history and experiencing the rare opportunity to sing in its remarkable auditorium. They also toured the Hungarian

Parliament Building, saw the Holy Crown of Hungary, and reflected at the Shoes on the Danube memorial. Later, the choir performed at Kálvin Tér Reformed Church, presenting a moving programme that included works by Wesley, Mozart, Forrest, and Tallis. Several families who had travelled to Budapest were able to join the congregation for this special performance. Afterwards, students were able to enjoy an evening meal near the famous Széchenyi Thermal Baths. Further highlights included visits to Heroes’ Square, Vajdahunyad Castle, and the House of Hungarian Music, where students explored the development of music through interactive exhibits. A river cruise along the Danube offered spectacular views of the city and revealed the location of the final concert venue, the Inner City Parish Church. The final performance was a memorable culmination of the tour. The church’s exceptional acoustic allowed the choir to deliver a powerful and expressive concert, supported by the magnificent organ, which the choir organists had the opportunity to play. The performance represented the result of months of preparation and several days of

intensive rehearsing and performing, leaving staff immensely proud of the students’ achievements. The tour concluded with a celebration of Hungarian cuisine at BorLaBor, where the group thanked their guide, Eszter, for bringing Budapest to life throughout the week. The choir's post-dinner, heartfelt rendition of Goodnight Sweetheart proved a fitting and memorable farewell. A final treasure hunt through the Buda Castle District provided one last adventure before the journey home, taking in spectacular views across the Danube and discovering some of Budapest's most beautiful landmarks, including Fisherman's Bastion and the Royal Palace. The Budapest tour combined outstanding music-making, cultural enrichment, friendship, and fun. The students’ enthusiasm, musicality, and exemplary conduct made the experience a great success. Thanks to all involved, with the hope that future tours may continue the emerging tradition of visiting destinations beginning with the letter “B”! For now, viszlát, Budapest!

100

KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26 | OVERSEAS TRIPS

ZAMBIA

SOCIAL JUSTICE TOUR 2026

After a year of fortnightly preparations, Kingwood’s Social Justice group were finally ready to depart for Zambia to learn about good development, see different cultures and to build connections with Zambian young people.

n preparation, the group learnt a bit of Bemba, the regional language in the Copperbelt area, and about Zambian culture and when good intentions can sometimes lead to causing more harm than doing good. The group bonded as a team and got involved in numerous fundraising endeavours, mostly physical challenges, for the host charity: Beyond Ourselves. This is a literacy and educational charity working with primary schools across the whole of Zambia with great results. Our students also ran a jumble sale, various cake sales and contributed some funds from the World Book Day mufti day, raising over £11,000 so far, with more to come in. After a mammoth 21-hour journey, the group were met at Ndola airport by the very welcoming Beyond Ourselves staff team and, despite most having had a sleepless night of travelling, they went straight into orientation and preparations for some school based days. The group enjoyed three full days in a school called Kafakumba where they joined in with lessons, helped out with the younger years, enjoyed sports and games together, ate lunch together and caught a glimpse of life for the Zambian people. Our students were blown away by how friendly, warm and welcoming their students were and there was also excited chatter, laughter

and wonderfully positive interactions. Each evening, our students spent time around a fire reflecting on the day, what the young people had noticed, little stories that had caught their attention, and exchanging thoughts on the different people they had all met – this became an important and valued time of each day. Our students were very shocked to learn that the BoZ (Beyond Ourselves) staff were worried about them being based in that school because it was so much better off than the government schools due to lots of American donations – this was just the beginning of them having their eyes opened to the relative lack of resources, opportunities and access to things that Zambians have, compared to British young people. Time in Kafakumba School finished with an afternoon of shared cultural activities, watching singing and dancing from every year group, full of joy and confidence. Our students sang the Kingswood specials, ‘Shine, Jesus, Shine’ and ‘Jubilate’, and they joined in with some songs and dances that they had learned in the three days spent there. To end, school histories were shared, followed by a big sing and dance together. It was a very happy and memorable time and our students were sad to say goodbye! At the weekend, the team went into Kitwe where they joined in with life

in one of the local communities, collecting water from the wells, washing clothes in bowls on the floor, cleaning houses and interacting with families, children and the local residents. They had ‘work experience’ time where they each made a money box out of scrap metal in a make shift outdoor workshop. They met up with a youth group from a local church, learnt a song with them, played games and then met in the huge outdoor market where they had a series of mini challenges to complete. It was a riot of colour, smells, and outfits within a bustling, noisy crowd. New foods were sampled and students had a story to tell around the fire in the evening. There was also an outpouring of gratitude from our students as it dawned on them how financially privileged we are in the UK, what a gift it is to have a bed each, running water, stable electricity, the NHS and emergency services, and an equipped kitchen, to name just a few things we can so often take for granted. Sunday was filled with the church experience. The group had an hour of lively, loud worship followed by an inspiring talk by the National Director of BoZ, Daniel Zulu. He spoke powerfully about how God had spoken to him despite his doubts, about his challenging childhood experiences

OVERSEAS TRIPS | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

and how lavish God’s love is. The group sang the new Bemba song they had learnt which Emmy helped to lead, as well as doing as lively a version of ‘Jubilate’ as they could! The church then provided lunch for everyone which included fried caterpillars, the staple Nshima (dough from white cornmeal), beans and chicken. There were lots more conversations with the youth group as well as more games and laughter with a daily dose of the game ‘pukana’ which our students fully intend to teach everyone at Kingswood on their return to school! The following day, the group visited a government school. It was shocking to see over 100 young children squeezed into a small classroom with almost no resources. Only around 1 in 5 children had a pencil, there was no register taken and the challenges for the teachers in the context were evident. There are huge challenges for Zambian government schools but it was very good to see a Jolly Phonics lesson taking place with energy and fun, making it memorable with active learning. Even with all the children squeezed in, others leaned in through the open windows in hope of learning more as the school could only provide three hours of teaching to each set of children per day. Our students and their secondary students taught some maths games together to the younger children then we had time for some cultural exchange discussions and our students led a couple of first aid sessions to the secondary students. Our students learnt that children as young as 3 will sometimes walk for about an hour in little groups to get to school. Others walked for up to 3 hours! They might be provided with a meal once a week and the dropout rate for children going on to secondary school is very high. The final days in Zambia were taken up with visiting social enterprises: the group saw a honey farm who provide hives to very poor people in rural areas around the Copperbelt and beyond; they visited Gigibonta, an Italian ice cream producer who use their funds to support a therapy place for street children; they had a relaxing two days in Nsobe game park which funds a school for local children, and whilst there they visited their reptile park whilst enjoying the ‘glamping’ that their tents and chalets provided alongside excellent food. They also visited Ndola football stadium, a ‘gift’ from China and one of only two national football stadiums in Zambia. Aside from this, many students ran in the mornings and everyone joined in with ultimate frisbee back at the accommodation. They all got new outfits made of African fabric which they look forward to showing off! At the final reflections around the fire, Daniel Zulu helped the students think through the impact of the trip on them, how it might have changed their perspective and how they would view things differently in light of it all. The students wrote themselves a letter which we will return to them in a few months’ time, using the opportunity to reflect on everything from how they had enjoyed not feeling judged to how grateful they were for having good shoes, from the strong community spirit to a new awareness of how many opportunities they have. The Social Justice group are excited to lead an assembly in the new academic year and to tell others about the experience.

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REFLECTIONS FROM CHARLIE & RISAKO HEADS OF SCHOOL, 2025-26

ello everyone,

As we sit down to write this, it feels strange to think that our time at Kingswood has come to an end. The past few years have flown by, and looking back, it’s incredible to see just how much has happened. From concerts, productions and charity events to sporting fixtures and everyday moments with friends, Kingswood has given us more memories than we could ever fit into one article. As we reflect on our time here, we have realised that what makes Kingswood truly special is not simply the opportunities it provides, but the people who inspire us to embrace them. Whether you have been part of this community since Prep School or, like one of us, joined in Sixth Form, belonging at Kingswood is not measured by how long you’ve been here: it is defined by the connections you make, the challenges you take on and the memories you create along the way. When we first arrived, we shared the same uncertainties that many new students experience. Would we fit in? Would we find our place? But those worries quickly disappeared. From our very first days, we

were welcomed with a sense of warmth and belonging that has remained constant ever since. That feeling of community at Kingswood is something we will carry with us long after we leave. What makes this Kingswood community so special is that every student is encouraged to write their own story. Kingswood offers endless opportunities, with each individual student having the chance to experience their own unique journey that is entirely their own. Perhaps the greatest lesson Kingswood has taught us is the importance of saying yes. Yes to opportunities that challenge us. Yes to experiences that push us beyond our comfort zones. Yes to moments that seem daunting at first but become the ones we remember forever. Kingswood gives us the confidence to take those first steps, and in doing so, helps us discover strengths we never knew we had. Some of our most treasured memories came from moments we never expected: trying new sports, travelling to unfamiliar places,

performing on stage, volunteering, supporting younger students and taking on leadership roles we once doubted ourselves capable of achieving. These experiences did more than fill our time at Kingswood — they shaped who we are. Looking back, we know we won’t remember every lesson or every exam. Instead, we’ll remember the conversations that changed our perspective, the laughter on journeys home from fixtures, rehearsals that ran late into the evening, the excitement of House competitions, friendships formed through boarding and the countless small moments that quietly turned ordinary days into unforgettable memories that we will carry forever. To our fellow leavers, thank you. Some of us have shared this journey for many years, while others have only been together for two, but every one of you has helped make this year group supportive, welcoming and unforgettable. It has been a privilege to grow alongside you, and we cannot wait to see where your journeys take you next. To our teachers and every member of staff, thank you for making Kingswood feel like home. Your impact extends far beyond the classroom. Whether you were teaching lessons, coaching from the sidelines, organising trips, caring

LEAVERS & STAFF | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

for the boarding houses or quietly keeping everything running behind the scenes, you have made such a big impact on our time at Kingswood. Your encouragement has given us confidence, your patience has helped us grow and your belief in us has often been stronger than our belief in ourselves. We know that all the teachers and staff will be greatly missed by us leavers. To those students who still have time at Kingswood, our advice is simple: say yes. Step outside your comfort zone. Join the team. Audition for the production. Put yourself forward for leadership. Start a conversation with someone new. The years pass more quickly than you can imagine, and the opportunities you take will become the memories you treasure most. As we leave Kingswood, we know that what we will miss most is its extraordinary sense of community. It is a place where everyone belongs. A place where you are encouraged to succeed, supported when you fail, celebrated when you grow and surrounded by people who genuinely want to see you thrive. Finally, we would like to express our final gratitude to everyone who has been part of our Kingswood journey: students, teachers, governors, support staff, parents and alumni. You have all played a part in shaping who we are today. Kingswood has given us far more than an education. It has given us friendships, confidence, memories and a place that will always feel like home. For that, we will always be grateful. With all our thanks and best wishes, Charlie & Risako

HEADS OF SCHOOL C. Barton

R. Sato

DEPUTY HEADS OF SCHOOL J. Ardus H. Atkins

E. Clarke C. Woodward

ADDITIONAL PR J. Cheng (EDI)

L. Hayward-Rodgers (Head of Fonthill)

E. Wake (Head of School)

J. Pilkington (Sustainability)

H. Williams (Head of Hall)

E. Lunt (Head of Summerhill)

J. Armstrong (Social Justice)

A. Reilly (Head of Middle)

J. Stirling (Head of Upper)

C. Harding A. Hicks E. Hocknell* E. Holt* A. Kirkwood A. Lane M. Lang T. Lau D. Lawrence S. Lethbridge K. Lian** M. Limbu** E. Lu R. Malla A. Marks* I. Miller M. Moore O. Morgan O. Odunlami E. Ogbaide K. Ovchinnikova A. Oyesiku** J. Perry R. Peyre** P. Phithaksapsin

C. Puzey I. Robertson M. Routh M. Rozhkova E. Savage* I. Sheppard* L. Sparrow S. Stanley T. Stappard S. Stenning B. Sun A. Tang J. Tang R. Targett* A. Tillett S. Walsh J. Watts A. Webber-Jones D. Wellings H. Williams J. Williams M. Worthy D. Wu A. Yu

SENIOR PREFECTS T. Antoniades E. Armstrong* R. Awlak S. Aysan H. Barker T. Beveridge C. Boateng H. Brooke** Y. Chan O. Cory* E. Dalton J. Douch T. Duffy T. Eugster H. Evans* E. Fitzpatrick B. Florey F. Goddard* H. Gover G. Greenwood A. Gurung B. Gurung C. Haines G. Hancock* C. Hanson-Brown

*Deputy Head of House | **Head of Boarding

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LEAVERS' BALL

LEAVERS & STAFF | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

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C L A SS

We wish all our Year 13 leavers happiness and success in the future.

YEAR 13 LEAVERS J. Adams

J. Cheng

C. Haines

S. Lethbridge

J. Pilkington

A. Tillett

I. Allom-Curran

E. Clarke

G. Hancock

K. Lian

C. Puzey

T. Towell Hughes

T. Antoniades

O. Cory

C. Hanson-Brown

M. Limbu

A. Reilly

J. Wadsworth

J. Ardus

E. Dalton

C. Harding

E. Lu

I. Robertson

E. Wake

E. Armstrong

E. Davey

K. Hawking

E. Lunt

M. Routh

S. Walsh

J. Armstrong

A. Davies

L. Hayward-Rodgers

R. Malla

M. Rozhkova

J. Watts

H. Atkins

A. Docton

E. Heer

A. Marks

R. Sato

A. Webber-Jones

R. Awlak

K. Dodge

B. Hersch

F. Maxwell

E. Savage

D. Wellings

S. Aysan

J. Douch

E. Hickman

E. McDade

I. Sekiguchi

G. Williams

H. Barker

P. du Pré

A. Hicks

I. Miller

I. Sheppard

H. Williams

C. Barton

T. Duffy

E. Hocknell

T. Minor

A. Shu

H. Williams

H. Bates

C. Engley-Duffy

E. Holt

M. Moore

O. Smith

J. Williams

F. Belmont

T. Eugster

R. Hori

O. Morgan

G. Solomon

M. Wilson

T. Beveridge

A. Evans

P. Hutchinson

A. Norquoy

L. Sparrow

J. Wong

B. Boardman

H. Evans

G. Jennings

O. Odunlami

S. Stanley

A. Wong

C. Boateng

E. Fitzpatrick

S. Jones

E. Ogbaide

T. Stappard

C. Woodward

O. Boutin

B. Florey

A. Kirkwood

A. Oldfield

S. Stenning

M. Worthy

I. Branigan

F. Goddard

R. Knight

K. Ovchinnikova

J. Stirling

D. Wu

A. Brocklehurst-Cordell

H. Gover

O. Kwok

B. Oyesiku

E. Stoaling

A. Yu

H. Brooke

G. Greenwood

A. Lane

A. Oyesiku

B. Sun

S. Brown

O. Greig

M. Lang

A. Oyesiku

J. Suntharalingam

W. Burton

A. Gurung

F. Langham

J. Perry

A. Tang

Y. Chan

B. Gurung

T. Lau

R. Peyre

J. Tang

F. Cheetham

O. Hadley

D. Lawrence

P. Phithaksapsin

R. Targett

LEAVERS & STAFF | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

STAFF JOINERS

standing Catering Manager as she left Kingswood for ventures new; to Laura Nixon for her work as Digital Content and Marketing Lead; to Claire Brooks as Lead Exam Invigilator; and longserving staff Yvonne Watson, Afternoon Receptionist for more than 20 years, and Annette Phelps, AV Technician who has been making our teachers lives easier for nearly 23 years. To our Summerhill House matrons Caroline Ridewood, for 18 years’ service, and Jayne Pillinger for 31 years, plus Michelle Newman and Ian Shrubsole who have worked in the Games Department across the Foundation. Although they have primarily worked down at KPS in recent years, Ms Newman has made a hugely generous contribution to the sporting life of the Senior School over many years. We wish them both a long and happy retirement.

We wish all our staff leavers every happiness and success for the future.

L-R: Lewis Livingstone (Graduate Music Assistant), Richard Finch (Director of Sport), George Lowes (Computer Science), Cameron Christie (Economics), Ian Ramsden (Computer Science)

STAFF LEAVERS Earlier in the year we said goodbye to Sophie Elliott who left to pursue new opportunities after 10 years at Kingswood. In addition to her teaching role within the Art Department, Sophie was also a committed member of the School community outside of her core duties and a valued member of the boarding team for a number of years. Our thanks also went to English teacher Kathy Moynihan who left Kingswood to move on to a new role, and to Sam Lickiss and Jane Hammond, who both covered a period of maternity leave within the Science and English departments, respectively.

At the end of the year, we said farewell to Esther Hudson and Philly Moore in English, and Kate Lumsden in Art who were with us for a short time this year but contributed brilliantly. Our thanks also to all our Language Assistants this year: Xi Liu (Mandarin), Marina RafolsMartinez (Spanish), Maelle CrevierFortin (French) and Marlene Hubbert (German), and Olivia Simmons who joined our Health and Wellbeing Team as maternity cover. We also said farewell to a number of support staff, who might be seen a little less but who have all contributed to the smooth running of the School. Our thanks to Sharon Traylor, our long-

We also said goodbye to Nancy Garland, our Exams Officer to whom we are hugely grateful. Mrs Garland’s meticulous planning, calm reassurance and considerable organisational acumen have ensured that the exam series have run smoothly and we thank Nancy for supporting our students during their exams. Finally, we also said farewell to Charlie Bevis, who is leaving us after what became three unforgettable years rather than the one he originally planned. His infectious energy, creativity and enthusiasm have lit up every lesson, rehearsal and production, while his choreography on productions such as Legally Blonde, Matilda and The Addams Family has been outstanding. Behind the fun and eccentricity has been someone of real professionalism, always willing to take on any challenge and support colleagues and students alike. We wish him every success on his travels and know that wherever his adventures take him next, he will leave the same positive impression on those he meets.

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TEACHING STAFF 2025 -2026 (SMT members shown in bold) JOINED

SUBJECT

NAME

JOINED

SUBJECT

Mr Andrew Gordon-Brown

NAME

01/09/2020

Headmaster and Principal of the School Foundation

Mr Mat Chataway

01/09/2024

Senior Deputy Head & Vice Principal

Dr Rachel McIlwaine Mr John W Davies Mr Jamie Matthews

01/09/2022 01/09/1994 01/09/2002

Deputy Head (Academic) Deputy Head (Co-Curricular) Deputy Head (Pastoral)

Mrs Hannah Jenkins Mrs Anna Knights Mr Jamie Knights Miss Felice Laake Ms Priscilla Lam

01/09/2022 01/09/2004 04/09/2006 01/09/2019 01/09/2017

Chemistry Mathematics; Study Support Music Biology Mandarin

Mrs Sarah Leclercq-Thain

01/09/2018

Head of Economics & Business; Head of Department Mentor

Mr Ed Allchorne

13/06/2016

Head of Biology; Medic/ Vet Coordinator

Mrs Sophie Andell

01/09/2017

Head of EAL; MFL

Mr Andy Barton

01/01/2018

Director of Music; Head of Department Mentor

Miss Emily Becconsall Miss Rosie Bond Miss Taryn Borys Ms Jo Brayton Mrs Natalie Brett Mr Barnaby Brown Mrs Emma Brown

01/09/2022 01/09/2019 01/09/2022 01/01/2022 01/09/2022 01/09/2010 01/09/2017

Geography MFL Librarian Head of Drama Physics DTE; Houseparent Hall Head of English; EDI Lead

Mr David Lehmann Ms Ruoshan Li Mr Samuel Lickiss Ms Debbie Longland Mr Bill Lonsdale Mr Luke Lorimer Ms Nicola Lowe Mr George Lowes Mr Paul Lynch

01/09/2024 01/09/2022 24/02/2025 01/09/2022 01/09/2023 01/09/2021 01/09/2019 01/09/2025 01/09/2022

Head of Mathematics Physics Biology Biology; Head of Careers Computer Science Mathematics Study Support Computer Science Head of RPE

Mr Peter MacDonald

01/09/2003

Assistant Head (Academic); History & Politics

Mr James Brown

01/09/2009

Head of Boys' Games; Houseparent Upper

Mr Stephen Brown Mr Theo Brown

01/01/2011 28/09/2015

Head of Art EAL

Dr Nick Burton

01/09/2023

Chemistry; Head of Academic Scholarship

Ms Rebecca Calder Mr Alex Carlton-Porter Mr James Castrique Mrs Ilona Chamen Mr Cameron Christie Miss Charlotte Chua Mr Jude Chua Mrs Monica Corripio-Lopez Miss Emma Crozier Mrs Annabel Cruickshanks

01/01/2024 01/09/2023 01/01/2018 01/09/2017 01/09/2025 01/09/2015 01/09/2010 28/01/2019 01/09/2024 01/09/2024

RPE; Global Goals Coordinator PE; Activities Coordinator Head of DTE Head of Study Support Economics Second in English Mathematics; Oxbridge Coordinator English; Houseparent Summerhill Business Studies Girls' PE and Games

Mrs Abi Madge Mrs Juliette Mainwaring Mrs Alexandra Matthews Mrs Michala Miller Mr Tom Moat Miss Alice Moore Mr Jonny Moore Miss Kathy Moynihan Mrs Sarah Musgrove Mr Will Musgrove

01/09/2020 01/09/2003 23/04/2007 01/09/2024 01/09/2017 01/09/2016 01/09/2022 01/09/2022 01/09/2021 01/09/2024

Psychology English Geography Business Studies Head of Geography; Head of EPQ English Physics English Geography; Houseparent School Physics

Mr Garrod Musto

01/09/1994

Director of Partnerships & Community Engagement; Mathematics

Mr George Newbould

01/09/2016

History & Politics; Houseparent Beaconfield

Mrs Nicola Curtis

01/09/2016

PE; Psychology; Assistant Head of Lower School

Mrs Sarah Dakin Mr Daniel Darwin Miss Amy Davidge Miss Ella Davison

01/09/2008 01/09/2012 01/09/2022 01/09/2024

Head of Classics Head of History & Politics Mathematics Art

Mr Matt Deacon

01/09/2022

Head of Science & Chemistry; Head of Department Mentor

Mr Olly East Mr Gareth Edgell Miss Sophie Elliott Mr Thomas Elliott Miss Charlotte Evans Dr Richard Finch Miss Alice Fox Mrs Elaine Francis Miss Rachael George Mrs Sarah George Mr Euan Gordon Ms Katie Gordon Miss Jane Hammond Miss Natalie Hannah Mr Darrell Harding Miss Emma Hawthorne Mr James Hills Mr John Jackson Miss Amy Jenkins

01/09/2018 01/09/2010 01/09/2015 01/09/2024 01/09/2020 01/09/2025 01/09/2017 01/09/2015 01/09/2024 01/09/2024 15/05/2017 01/09/2024 01/09/2023 01/09/2019 01/09/2002 01/09/2023 01/09/2022 01/09/2022 01/09/2022

DTE; DTE Enrichment Coordinator Head of Computer Science Art Mathematics Head of MFL & German Director of Sport Second in Mathematics Music Mathematics Biology Geography; Head of Year 10 Science English Head of Academic PE Head of Boarding; Drama & Theatre German Business Studies PE / Hockey History & Politics

Mrs Steph Newbould Miss Michelle Newman Miss Sam Page Mrs Alice Paterson Miss Una Paver Mr Ed Peerless Mr Stephen Pentreath Ms Emma Prowse Mr Ian Ramsden Mr Martin Richards Miss Nadine Robinson Mrs Victoria Sim Mr Matthew D Smith Mrs Laura Smyth Mr Steven Smyth Miss Louise Sobey Mrs Nicki Sparks (Gerrish) Mrs Nat Stewart Mr Barney Stuttard Ms Najat Taibi

01/09/2023 12/01/2004 01/09/2022 01/09/2022 08/01/1990 01/09/2011 01/09/2015 01/09/2020 01/09/2025 01/09/2024 01/09/2010 01/09/2012 01/09/2016 01/09/2011 01/09/2012 01/09/2019 01/09/2013 01/09/2018 01/09/2018 01/09/2018

RPE; Head of Year 9 PE English Biology Science/ Psychology / PE Head of Physics Head of Lower School; Chemistry Study Support Computer Science Mathematics MFL Head of Girls' Games Mathematics Head of Middle School; Biology Geography; Houseparent Middle MFL Chemistry English; Head of PSHE & Life Skills Geography; Head of Year 11 Head of French

Miss Katie Taverner

01/09/2023

Head of Psychology; Assistant Head of Sixth Form

Mr Miles Thompson Mr David Walker Mrs Lizzy Ward Mrs Victoria Waring Ms Amy Webb Mr Digby Webb Mr Roger White Miss Harriet Wilson Mr Craig Woodgate

01/09/2023 01/09/2009 01/09/2013 01/09/2024 01/09/2024 01/09/2015 01/09/2012 01/09/2013 01/09/2001

KS3 Science Head of Spanish Drama Study Support RPE; Senior Houseparent Fonthill Head of Athletic Development Mathematics RPE; Deputy Head of Sixth Form Head of Sixth Form; History & Politics

GOVERNORS 2025-2026 Mr Paul Baines (Chair of Governors) Mrs Jessica Briggs Mr Ian Falconer

Ms Judith Fenn Ms Beth Garner Mr Malcolm Gordon Mr Rob Hill

Mr Guy Hinchley Prof David Lane Mrs Dorothy Nancekievill Maj Gen Tony Raper

Mrs Morag Smith Mr Marcus Torchon Mr Otty Warmann

FRIENDS OF KINGSWOOD | KINGSWOOD IN FOCUS 2025-26

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FRIENDS OF KINGSWOOD Friends of Kingswood (FOK) is our vibrant parent community, bringing families together while supporting Kingswood in countless ways.

he 2025/26 academic year was another busy one for FOK. Year group suppers hosted at the School, alongside the ever-popular Quiz Night, gave parents plenty of opportunities to connect on campus. Away from School, coffee mornings, dog walks, picnics, social evenings and Christmas wreath-making brought families together, all accompanied by plenty of laughter and a wonderful sense of community. One of the ways FOK raises funds is through the Friends' Bar, which opens during concerts, plays and talks in the theatre. Staffed by parent volunteers, it has quickly become a much-loved feature of School events, serving refreshments with a healthy dose of good humour.

FOK kicks off the festive season with the annual Christmas Fair. The event celebrates local makers and artists while giving our budding student entrepreneurs the chance to showcase and sell their own creations. Senior Houses keep younger visitors entertained with games and activities, while parent volunteers serve drinks and a barbecue throughout the event. The evening concludes with two raffles – one for students and an online raffle for parents – ensuring that our boarding families can join in wherever they are in the world.

The Pre-Loved Uniform Shop continues to give Kingswood uniform a second life. From blazers and sports kit to hockey sticks and boots, it offers a sustainable and affordable way for families to find everything they need. The shop's volunteers are also informal guides who can answer the small but important questions that make settling into school life that little bit easier.

As the academic year draws to a close, Sports Days on the Upper Playing Fields provide another highlight of the FOK calendar. Over two days, families gather to cheer on competitors while enjoying the traditional FOK treats of ice cream and strawberries. It is a chance to celebrate achievements, catch up with friends and look ahead to the summer, whether that means exciting new adventures for our Upper Sixth leavers or holiday activities for younger students.

This year, funds raised by FOK have supported several exciting projects across the School. A new mobile digital scoreboard will enhance sporting fixtures while also creating opportunities for community events, including outdoor film nights. At Westwood, new ovens and baking equipment have enabled more children to enjoy Cookery Club, giving even more students the opportunity to develop their culinary skills. Numerous board games were donated to the new Middle School Common Room, and FOK also invested in a new racing simulator, which will be enjoyed by students through daily clubs and by our boarders during evenings and weekends. Through fundraising, volunteering and bringing families together, Friends of Kingswood continues to play an invaluable role in enriching the life of the School and strengthening the sense of community that makes Kingswood such a special place. Mrs Nicky Daborn Kingswood Parent and FOK Chair

Lansdown Road, Bath BA1 5RG T. 01225 734210 E. admissions@kingswood.bath.sch.uk www.kingswood.bath.sch.uk