MGSNews
Maidstone
Grammar School Newsletter
From the Headteacher
As we reach the end of what has been another demanding yet deeply rewarding term, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the months gone by and to thank every member of our community for the commitment, energy and spirit that make our school such an exceptional place to learn and work.
The autumn term is always full of pace and purpose, but this year in particular we have witnessed an extraordinary level of endeavour from students and staff alike.
Across classrooms, stages, sports fields and beyond, Winter 2025
our students have demonstrated curiosity, resilience and passion in abundance. Academic standards remain exceptionally high, with students rising admirably to the challenges set before them. Beyond the curriculum, we have celebrated a wealth of achievements: inspiring performances in music and drama; notable successes in local and national competitions; sporting triumphs that reflect not only talent but teamwork; and countless examples of quiet determination shown in day-today school life. These successes are a credit to our students’ hard work and to the dedication of the staff who guide, teach and champion them.
Throughout the term, I have been reminded time and again of what it truly means to be a Maidstonian. It is a sense of belonging that reaches far beyond wearing the school badge; it is reflected in how our students support one another, how they celebrate each other’s accomplishments, and how they step up to contribute positively to the wider school community.
Whether through charitable initiatives, leadership roles, or acts of kindness that may go unnoticed by many but matter immensely to a few, our students embody values of respect, compassion and integrity every day. This shared identity this collective pride in who we are remains one of our greatest strengths.
As we celebrate the term’s accomplishments, we must also take a moment to say goodbye our colleagues who are leaving us at the end of this term. Mrs Halsted, our attendance officer leaves
us after three years but in that time has supported the school in ensuring we are seeing extremely positive attendance figures as well as supporting many students with their individual needs. And Mr Owen, who is an Old Maidstonian himself, also leaves after three years to become the School and Staff Instructor within the CCF at a school in London. In his time Mr Owen has contributed in a number of meaningful ways to the life of the school. His commitment to the teaching of biology as well as his passion for rugby students has been greatly appreciated. While we are sad to see Mrs Halsted and Mr Owen go, we wish them every success in their future endeavours and thank them sincerely for the lasting impact they have made here.
With the Christmas break now upon us, I hope that all members of our community - students, staff, parents and carers - find time to rest, reflect and reconnect with loved ones. The festive season offers a valuable chance to pause and appreciate what we have achieved together, and to look forward with optimism to the opportunities that the new year will bring.
Thank you once again for your continued support and partnership. I wish you all a peaceful, joyful and restorative Christmas, and I look forward to welcoming everyone back in January for another exciting term ahead.
Mr Tomkins Headteacher
Your Stories, Our School
Every day at MGS is filled with achievements, creativity, and moments worth celebrating - and we want to share them with our whole community!
Got something to share? Whether it’s a proud achievement, a snapshot of school life, a creative piece, or even a funny anecdote, we’d love to hear from you.
Send your contributions to development@mgs.kent.sch.uk
We welcome content from students, parents, staff, Old Maidstonians, and friends of MGS. Nothing is too small or too niche - your voice matters!
Your content may be featured on one of our social media platforms or in our publications, including this termly newsletter and The Maidstonian annual.
No need to worry about perfect wording - we just want your story.
Together, let’s showcase what makes MGS so great!
#OlimMeminisseJuvabit
His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Kent Award
On Thursday 23 October, members of our CCF and school community attended His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Kent Awards - the county’s highest annual honours, presented by the Lord-Lieutenant (the King’s representative).
At this ceremony, Cadet SSgt Rafel R (Year 12, College House) received His Majesty’s LordLieutenant’s Cadet Award, and our SSI, Lt D. Rai, was presented with His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant’s Meritorious Service Award.
A massive congratulations to both Mr Rai and Rafel on receiving these awards in recognition of their outstanding service and
leadership. These honours are among the highest a volunteer or cadet can achieve, sitting just below the King’s Honours (such as the MBE) in prestige, and marking exceptional dedication to community and Crown.
We thank them both for their service.
Semi-Finalists
Congratulations to our 1st XV, who recently progressed to the semi-finals of the National Schools Vase after defeating Wimbledon College in the quarter-finals.
This achievement is a testament to the squad’s hard work, commitment, and dedication - shared by both players and coaching staff. The team continues to go from strength to strength, and the pride in their efforts has been clear from the large home crowds cheering them on at each fixture.
Although the semi-final takes place in March, there will be little respite for the squad. They will continue working hard over the coming months, staying match ready and conditioned for their next challenge.
We are proud of everything they have achieved and wish them every success in their preparation and in the final stages of this national competition.
1st XV Playing Record so far:
09 Sep 25 St Lawrence College
13 Sep 25 Gravesend Grammar School
20 Sep 25 Skinners’ School
24 Sep 25 Oakwood Park Grammar School
Won: 34 - 8 National Vase Round 1
Lost: 0 - 24
Lost: 5 - 48
Won: 72 - 0 National Vase Round 2
04 Oct 25 Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School Won: 20 - 12
08 Oct 25 Cranbrook School Won: 33 - 19
15 Oct 25 Eltham College Won: 21 - 9 National Vase Round 3
31 Oct 25 The Judd School
04 Nov 25 Christ’s Hospital
07 Nov 25 Sutton Valence School
15 Nov 25 St Olave’s Grammar School, Kent
19 Nov 25 Duke of York’s Royal Military School
22 Nov 25 Eltham College
29 Nov 25 Dartford Grammar School
03 Dec 25 Wimbledon College
06 Dec 25 Felsted School
13 Dec 25 Chislehurst and Sidcup Grammar School
Lost: 14 - 24 U18 Kent Merit League
Won: 35 - 14 National Vase Round 4
Won: 19 - 14
Won: 68 - 5
Won: 16 - 15 National Vase Round 5
Lost: 26 - 32
Won: 28 - 7
Won: 22 - 0 National Vase Quarter Final
Lost: 3 - 45
Lost: 7 - 21
Women supporting Women
In October, as part of our ongoing Sixth Form induction programme, Year 12 girls got together with their Year 13 buddies for an informal catch up on all things MGS. A great atmosphere and event led by our School ViceCaptain, Kiera (Year 13, College House).
Buddy systems provide crucial support for students, helping newcomers feel welcome and easing the transition to a new environment, while also developing social and leadership skills in the student buddies themselves. They can also contribute to a more inclusive and positive school atmosphere by helping to prevent bullying and developing a stronger sense of community that we here at MGS are proud to support.
Cross Country
Well done to our U12 and U14 cross country teams, who took part in the district competition at Mote Park recently. A special mention to Oscar W (Year 7, Corpus Christi) for finishing second in the Year 7 race, and George S (Year 9, Barton House) for finishing third in the Year 9 race.
Thank you to all those staff who supported and prepared the boys for this event.
Behind the scenes with Haywood Media
In September, Haywood Media - a production agency founded by Chris Haywood (OM 2021) and former School Captain - was onsite filming our wonderful students as they shared their experiences of life at the school.
It has been a joy to hear how proud they are of their school, and we enjoyed sharing their stories with our community once the production was complete later in the term.
Thank you, Chris, for your time and expertise, and thank you also to the many students who shared their stories.
Box Clever
In the penultimate week of Term 2, our Year 11 students experienced Shakespeare like never before, thanks to the incredible Box Clever Theatre Company. Their one-hour performance of Macbeth brought the darkness and drama of Shakespeare’s Scotland to life, complete with gripping fight scenes, immersive lighting, and a powerful blend of Shakespearean and modern dialogue.
Following the performance, students took part in a 30-minute workshop exploring the play’s key characters and themes (ambition, power, morality, and the supernatural) through interactive discussion and performance.
We are incredibly grateful to our Parents’ Association for generously funding this event and for their continued support in enriching our
students’ learning experiences.
We’re proud to offer enriching opportunities like this at MGS, where our English Department is committed to inspiring a lifelong love of literature.
Children in Need
In November, we held our Children in Need Charity Day, organised by College House. The day featured numerous events alongside nonuniform, all aimed at raising money for Children in Need. We are proud and grateful to have raised nearly £2,500 for the charity, thanks to the generous donations of our students, parents and staff.
The most popular event was the senior students versus staff football match, played on our all weather pitch at lunchtime. Nearly the entire school attended, creating a positive and supportive atmosphere. The students took an early lead in the first half, but Mr Musendo equalised with a late penalty, resulting in a 1-1 draw. With no time left in lunch for extra time, the school community will have to wait until another charity event to see whether the staff or students can emerge victorious.
Bewl Water
Our trip to Bewl Water in early October took learning beyond the classroom and into the great outdoors.
Through a range of adventurous activities, Year 7 students embraced new challenges, discovered hidden strengths, and grew in confidence. It was a day of achievement, teamwork and unforgettable moments. An inspiring start to their journey with us.
We are incredibly grateful to our Parents’ Association for generously funding this event and for their continued support in enriching our students’ learning experience.
Maidstone Music Festival
We’re thrilled to share that Sanuka A (Year 7, Tonbridge House) has been awarded 1st place with Honours in the Intermediate Piano Recital class at this year’s Maidstone Music Festival!
Sanuka’s performance was a beautiful reflection of the dedication, creativity, and musical excellence we celebrate at MGS.
Congratulations on this wellearned recognition.
Congratulations to Liam L (Year 11, Tonbridge House), who recently won first place in the Grade 5 piano performance (Light Music class) during the first round of the Maidstone Music Festival.
Well done Liam!
Maidstone Carols
Congratulations to Christian K (Year 13, Barton House) who has been selected to sing a solo and lead a 50 strong choir at the Maidstone Carols on Saturday 13th December, at All Saints Church. This event, now in its second year, attracted around 800 attendees at each service last year. Being chosen to lead such a prominent occasion is a real honour and a testament to Christian’s talent.
Well done Christian.
After school on Friday can only mean one thing: Warhammer Club!
100 Years’ Cup Returns
The 100 Years’ Cup returned to Maidstone Grammar School in early December after a fantastic Saturday morning of rugby, with our 1st XV, 2nd XV, and 3rd XV securing wins against Dartford Grammar School. This annual fixture against DGS holds special significance: last year’s match marked the centenary of MGS’s first ever rugby game, played in 1925 against DGS. That historic fixture introduced the 100 Years’ Cup, which DGS won. From then on, this cup has become the prize contested in the annual meeting between the two schools. Congratulations to all involved, and thank you to the many staff members who supported over 200 students competing in this tradition filled event.
Wycombe Abbey
Our Classics Department were thrilled to join over 200 young Classicists at Wycombe Abbey’s inaugural Classics Conference last month. Students from 15 schools came together for a day of inspiring lectures led by renowned academics from Oxford and Cambridge. From the emotional depths of Ovid and Catullus to the humanising evolution of Greek gods in art, and from the joys of ancient Greek New Comedy to the archaeology of Vesuvius, the day brought the ancient world vividly to life.
A huge thank you to Wycombe Abbey for their kind invitation and hospitality - and to our students for representing MGS with such enthusiasm.
Netball
This year has been an incredible showcase of talent, teamwork, and resilience from our netball squads.
The season began with a commanding 29–13 victory over Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School for our 1st VII, setting the tone for the months ahead. Our 1st VII continued to demonstrate grit and determination in a hard-fought contest against Invicta Grammar School recently, narrowly missing out with a 28–20 scoreline but earning praise for their composure and leadership.
Both our 1st and 2nd VII teams have embraced every challenge with enthusiasm, representing MGS with pride and inspiring the next generation of players. These achievements are made possible thanks to the support of our sponsors - Emma Gregson (Willow Planning) and Phil Lewis (Ashton Lewis Kitchens) - and the Parents’ Association, whose generosity has provided new customised post protectors and ensured our teams look and feel their best.
A huge thank you to our coaching staff, players, and the entire school community for championing girls’ sport. With such a strong foundation, the rest of the season promises even more exciting moments on court!
477th Cohort
Macmillan Coffee Morning
A highlight for September was undoubtedly our annual Macmillan Coffee Morning hosted by Barton House.
This long-standing tradition is a much valued opportunity for our school to come together in support of a vital cause. Over the years, we have proudly raised more than £8,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support. This year, we were proud to have raised over £2,000. Thank you to everyone who got involved to make this event a success.
A shared cup of tea and a slice of cake may seem modest, but it reflects something far greater: the generosity, warmth, and spirit that define our school’s community. It’s always a joyful and well-supported occasion and the event was no exception.
Swimming Success
We’re proud to celebrate Tom H’s (Year 7, College House) outstanding performance at the Medway Championships 2025 Gala 5, held on October 4th at Maidstone Leisure Centre.
Swimming for Maidstone Swimming Club MGS year 7 student Tom competed in the Medway Gala at the weekend, an event for swimmers from all clubs based in the Medway district. Tom swam the boys 100m Individual Medley (getting the gold in the 11 year-old category) and the 200m freestyle (winning the silver and achieving a time that will be
considered for the South East region next year).
He was also part of a gold winning relay team, so a good evening all round!
11+ Open Evening
It was lovely to welcome over 1000 people through our doors and share what we do at our our 11+ Open Evening in October.
Well done and thank you to Ameer H (Year 7, College House) and School Captain Alan B (Year 13, Corpus Christi House) for standing and speaking to a packed Big Hall twice, and a special congratulations to Alan, who also marked his 18th birthday on the day and was presented with a cake in front of our visitors to honour the occasion. A massive thank you to all our staff and students who got the school ready for the event, led tours, and did it all with so much pride and a smile.
Latin Olympiad
On Friday 21 November, four brilliant MGS students Robert H., James G., Daniel V. and Henry M. took part in the very first GCSE Latin Ancient World Olympiad at Tiffin School. With teams from across London, Kent and beyond, it was an evening full of fun, challenge and classical creativity!
Our team did us proud, finishing 15th out of 27 and shining in the “Guess Who?” and “Boggle” rounds. Even some of the teachers were stumped by the questions (though the students had a few extra clues!).
A huge thank you to Tiffin School for hosting such a fantastic event. We’re already buzzing with ideas for next year, and maybe even a Kent-wide quiz night of our own!
1st
XI
We thank and congratulate our 1st XI, Mr Hughes, and his coaching staff on an excellent season so far. The squad is currently ranked first nationally - a testament to the hard work and commitment of everyone involved.
In early December, they progressed to Round 5 of the ESFA U18 National Schools’ Cup after a 3-0 home victory over The Judd School. Their next challenge will be against Dulwich College in the New Year, and we wish them the very best as they prepare.
Later in December, the squad secured a back-to-back East Kent Premiership title. A massive congratulations on an incredible season so far!
1st XI Playing Record so far:
10 Sep 25
17 Sep 25
23 Sep 25
24 Sep 25
01 Oct 25
08 Oct 25
29 Oct 25
05 Nov 25
10 Nov 25
12 Nov 25
19 Nov 25
Oakwood Park Grammar School
Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School
Rainham Mark Grammar School
Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys
Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys
Borden Grammar School
Chatham & Clarendon Grammar School
Dane Court Grammar School
Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys
Dover Grammar School for Boys
Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys
24 Nov 25 The Judd School
26 Nov 25 The Harvey Grammar School
10 Dec 25
Norton Knatchbull Grammar School
Won: 3-1 League
Won: 5-0 League
Won: 3-0
National Cup - Round 1
Won: 4-1 League
Won: 6-1 National Cup - Round 2
Won: 3-0 League
Won: 9-1 League
Won: 5-1 League
Won: 3-2 National Cup - Round 3
Draw: 0-0 League
Won: 2-1 County Cup Rd 2
Won: 3-0 National Cup - Round 4
Draw: 1-1 League
Won: 6-1 League
Remembrance
Service before self. Courage. Compassion.
Let us remember and live by those values.
On Remembrance Day, our school community gathers to pause, reflect and remember.
Each year, we join millions across the UK and beyond in honouring those who gave their lives in service to others. But Remembrance is not just about history; it’s about values. It’s about service before self, and the courage to put others first.
Eighty years ago, the world marked the end of the Second World War. Behind the celebrations of VE Day and VJ Day were stories of quiet endurance, extraordinary bravery, and deep sacrifice.
Families mourned. Communities rebuilt. Hope endured.
At the heart of our ceremony today is the Kohima Epitaph:
“When you go home, tell them of us and say,
For your tomorrow, we gave our today.”
These words, inspired by ancient Greek poetry, remind us that remembrance is timeless. They call on us, the living, to speak of the fallen, to carry their stories forward.
Service takes many forms. It’s found in the armed forces, emergency services, and humanitarian work. But it’s also found in everyday acts of kindness, in standing up for what’s right, and in supporting those
around us.
As we stand in silence, we honour those who gave their lives, and those who continue to serve today. May we all strive to live with the same spirit of compassion, courage, and service.
Adapted from Mr Highway’s speech, which he delivered at our Remembrance service on Remembrance Day.
Our CCF contingents took part in the annual commemorations in Maidstone on Remembrance Sunday.
MGSPA Annual Fireworks Spectacular
Thank you to everyone who attended and supported our MGSPA Annual Fireworks Spectacular on Saturday 1st November.
A massive thanks also to our Parents’ Association, without whom the event wouldn’t have been possible.
Team Building
Well done to all our students (and staff) for making it through an incredibly busy and exciting start to the academic year. A particular congratulations to our new Year 7 and Year 12 students, who have already made a positive impact at the school and embraced everything that has come their way with such enthusiasm.
Year 12 rose to the challenges of their team building day in September - whilst skilfully dodging the rain - while Year 7 worked brilliantly in teams to problem solve throughout their activities.
Well done to all.
British Gymnastics
We’re proud to celebrate Year 12 student Dexter, a British gymnast competing in Men’s Artistic Gymnastics (MAG) and representing Pegasus Gym. From October 10–12, he travelled to Cottbus, Germany to represent Great Britain at the 2025 Wohnen Juniors Trophy, helping Team GBR take gold and secure €1000 in prize money.
He delivered a standout performance on the parallel bars, scoring an impressive 13.000, and earlier this year was crowned U18 Pommel Horse Champion with a score of 12.800.
A rising talent, Dexter has shown remarkable dedication and resilience, successfully competing with new routines following injury. We wish him continued success as he competes for GB.
Girls’ S&C
A brilliant start to our Strength and Conditioning Club for Senior Girls at MGS! Mrs Ridgway led the first session with 22 students attending, and the energy was fantastic.
Sport is a big part of life at Maidstone Grammar School. We support both performance athletes and enthusiastic participants, with full-time PE teachers and expert coaches helping our teams achieve great results. Recent seasons have been especially strong in rugby, football, cricket and athletics .
Our co-curricular sports
programme runs all week long - before school, at lunch, after school, weekends and even holidays. With top-notch facilities like our new 3G pitch, pavilion, sports hall, weight room and more, there’s something for everyone.
Here’s to strong starts and stronger girls.
Tonbridge Charity Day
In the penultimate week of Term 2, Tonbridge House ran our Christmas-themed Charity Day.
Thursday saw a hugely popular Staff vs Student dodgeball match in the Sports Hall, with the students emerging victorious after two fiercely contested rounds. That evening, the House Band Competition got underway, before concluding with a final in the Big Hall during lunch and form time on Friday.
Alongside a bake sale, non-uniform day, and Wear a Christmas Jumper, the events raised nearly £2000 for Imago, a charity supporting children and young people across Kent.
House Band Competition
Waterstones
The final day of Term 1 marked the conclusion of Year 7s’ visits to Waterstones in Maidstone.
During these visits, each student received a new book courtesy of our Parents’ Association. A huge thank you to the Parents’ Association for their generosity in supporting the ongoing development of literacy and enthusiasm for reading at MGS -
this initiative would not have been possible without them.
Later in the year, Year 7 students will have the opportunity to swap their books with one another if they wish.
We have been incredibly impressed with Year 7’s behaviour throughout these trips, with many students putting their recently
reviewed PSHCE road safety skills into practice as they made their way across town to Waterstones.
Thank you to all staff who accompanied Year 7 on these visits, and a special thanks to Mr Tillbrook for organising this fantastic opportunity.
Mixed Rugby
In early September, many of our Sixth Form students came together to take part in Senior Mixed Rugby. Despite most being completely new to the sport (and the torrential rain at times) there was plenty of fun and laughter.
Higher Education Fair
Our annual Higher Education Fair took place at the end of September welcomed nearly 2,000 visitors, making it our most popular event to date! We’ve been delighted to hear how the fair has helped students and families make more informed decisions about their futures and careers.
A special thank you to our careers team for organising such a valuable and well attended event. And finally, a massive thank you to all the exhibitors listed below who took the time to travel to us and share their expertise and guidance. We couldn’t have done it without you!
A Star Future, Aberystwyth University, Aston University, University of Bath, University of Birmingham, University of Brighton, University of Cambridge, Canterbury Christ Church University, Cardiff University, Cardiff Metropolitan University, City St George’s, University of Dundee, University of East Anglia, Escape Studios, University of Essex, University of Exeter, Falmouth University, University of Glasgow, Goldsmiths University of London, University of Greenwich, University of Hull, Imperial College London, University of Kent, Lancaster University, University of Leeds, London School of Economics & Political Science, Loughborough University, Medway School of Arts, Mid-Kent College, Newcastle University, Norwich University of the Arts. University of Nottingham, , Oxford Brookes University, University of Portsmouth, Queen’s University
Belfast, University of Reading, Royal Holloway University, St Mary’s University Twickenham, University of Sheffield, Solent University Southampton, University of Southampton, University of Suffolk, University of Surrey, University of Sussex, Swansea University, University College London, University for the Creative Arts, University of Warwick, University of Winchester, University of York.
GCSE Results Day
We were delighted to announce an excellent set of GCSE results this year. 49% of all subject grades were graded 7 to 9, 25% of all subject grades were graded 8/9 and 96% of students gained five 9 – 4 grades including English and Mathematics. 31 students out of the year group achieved at least eight grades at Level 8 or higher, with 13 students achieving at least a Level 8 in ten of their subjects. Six students did outstandingly well achieving a Level 9 in at least 10 of their chosen subjects.
The headteacher, commented that ‘the school is delighted that the students have performed so well, which is a result of a combination of hard work by both the students and dedicated staff. Year 11 should be immensely proud.’
A Level Results Day
We were delighted to announce an excellent set of A Level examination results. 68% of all grades were graded A*- B, 31% of all grades were graded A*/A, 27 students achieved at least three A grades, and 12 students achieved at least two A* grades. Particular recognition must go to the four students who gained at least three A* grades.
The excellent performance across the school means that many of the students have achieved their university offers.
The Headteacher commented that ‘these excellent grades represent the enormous and collective efforts put in by both students and staff over the last two years.’
Girls’ Sport
On Wednesday 10th December, we proudly fielded teams in both Senior Girls’ Rugby and Senior Girls’ Netball fixtures. A total of 24 girls represented the school, with the 1st XV Girls’ Rugby squad hosting Tiffin School and the 2nd VII Netball team travelling to Gravesend Grammar School.
This was the very first match for our rugby squad and we were delighted to play a full 15-a-side match, in front of a supportive home crowd. The team delivered a superb performance, securing a 36–19 victory in a thrilling tryfest. Special mention goes to our try scorers: Bianca L (2) (Year 12, College House), Sophie T (Year 12, Corpus Christi House), Fiona S (Year 12, Barton House), Callia S (Year 12, Corpus Christi House), and Kylie H (Year 12, Barton House). Our Senior Girls’ Rugby journey continues on Wednesday 17th December with another home fixture against Simon Langton Grammar School.
Meanwhile, the 2nd VII put up a valiant effort against Gravesend’s 1st team, with two very close quarters, but Gravesend had a bigger squad and were ultimately too strong on the day, leaving MGS on the wrong end of a 28-11 scoreline.
We are looking forward to more girls’ rugby, netball and football fixtures in Term 3 and 4!
RAST
We’re proud to celebrate the achievements of our RAF cadets, who competed in the Royal Air Squadron Trophy (RAST) at Royal Air Force Halton earlier this month.
The competition brought together cadets from across the country to take on challenges in shooting, first aid, cyber, space, drill, and more. Our team performed with distinction, showing resilience, adaptability, and true team spirit.
A huge thank you to Sgt. Kingsford (Year 13, Barton House) Cpl. Kubica (Year 13, Tonbridge House), Cpl. Little (Year 13, College House), and Lt. Cdr. Pinn for their leadership and support. Their dedication and encouragement made this opportunity possible for our cadets.
NHS Careers Day
Twelve of our Year 9 students recently visited Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust Academic Centre at Maidstone Hospital for an NHS Careers Day, joining schools from across the area to explore the many paths available in healthcare.
From trying out midwifery techniques, to learning how to plaster fractures, and use surgical instruments, students gained hands-on insight into both clinical and support roles within the NHS. The day also included an
NHS careers quiz and interactive sessions with healthcare professionals.
A huge thank you to the NHS teams who gave their time to inspire the next generation, and well done to our students for making the most of this important opportunity!
Bar Mock Trial
On Saturday 6th December, many of our senior debaters took part in the prestigious Bar Mock Trial Competition Heat at Maidstone Crown Court.
Facing stiff competition from schools across the region, our students did themselves and the school proud as they assumed the roles of barristers, witnesses, and court staff.
They gained valuable insight into the workings of the legal justice system and had the opportunity to put their skills to the test in a real courtroom setting.
A big thank you to Mr Andrews for organising and preparing the students for the event, and to our assigned barrister who generously coached them in advance.
Upper School Speech Day
Friday 5 September 2025
On Friday 5 September, the Sixth Form and staff gathered in the Quad for our Upper School Speech Day. This annual event is an opportunity to formally recognise and celebrate the achievements of students who were in Year 11 to 13 last year. Prize-winners from these year groups were individually acknowledged and received awards in front of their families and invited guests.
A special thank you to all who attended, and in particular to Chris Boobier, Former School Captain (OM, 2005), who joined us as Guest of Honour and shared his reflections with the audience.
Congratulations to all the prizewinners, and best wishes to last year’s Year 13 as they begin their journeys at university and other next steps in the years ahead.
Year 11 Prizewinners
Art
Biology
Business Studies
Chemistry
Classical Civilisation
Computer Science
Design Technology
Drama
English Language
English Literature
Food Preparation & Nutrition
French
Further Mathematics
Geography
German
History
Latin
Mathematics
Music
Film Studies
Physical Education
Physics
RS
Science
Sociology
Spanish
Top Scholars in Year 11
Barton House
College House
Corpus Christi
Tonbridge House
E McGuinness
A Overal-Roe
C Ryan
A Overal-Roe
F Shepherd
A Overal-Roe
J Else
S Fowler
F Shepherd
F Shepherd
T Gates
A Moisan
G Georgiev
A Overal-Roe
F Mallet
G Birkett
J Brooks & S Jackson
A Overal-Roe
S Fowler
F Shepherd
W Bacon
A Overal-Roe
S Fowler
S Fowler
M Wheeler
V Rzepecki
M Wheeler
G Birkett
S Jackson
A Thirumavalavan
Lubbock Prize for outstanding GCSE Results A Overal-Roe
Parents’ Association Prize O Jones
Parents’ Association Prize J Kerr
Parents’ Association Prize F Aravind
Parents’ Association Prize W Stansfield
Parents’ Association Prize I Pedder
Parents’ Association Prize M Rai
Parents’ Association Prize K Perera
Parents’ Association Prize O Lloyd-Smith
Year 12 Prizewinners
Art
Biology
Business Studies
Chemistry
Classical Civilisation
Computer Science
Design Technology
Economics
English Literature
Film Studies
French
Further Mathematics
Geography
German
History
Mathematics
Media Studies
Music
Music Technology
PE
Philosophy (Brian Simons Prize)
Physics
Politics
Psychology
Sociology
Spanish
B Lucas
H Roberts
F Rugina
J Le
R Allan
A Taylor
T McCaffrey
S Chapman
C Peen
H Nicholson
H Truong
E Wright
A Cherry
T Day
R Allan
R Allan
H Cutler
T Roff
B Lucas
E Edwards
J Tingley
M Russell
D Harding
R Allan
C Peen
O Whiting
Upper School Speech Day
Friday 5 September 2025
Year 13 Prizewinners
Art M George
Biology I Trotter
Bossom Prize for Further Maths C Lloyd
Business Studies
N Ward
Chemistry L Stockwell
Classical Civilisation T Cox
Computer Science
A Mclauchlan
Design and Technology D Goncalves
Economics I Gregory
Film Studies
S Tysoe
French H Allsebrook
German H Allsebrook
Gilbert Prize for Geography H Shepherd
Mathematics
Media Studies
K Singh
S Tysoe
Monckton Prize for English H Allsebrook
Music
Music Technology
Philips Prize for History
L Fleet
Z Veitch
H Shepherd
Philosophy C Fowler
Physical Education I Gregory
Physics C O’Shea
Politics
B Brooks
Psychology T Morris
Sociology
D Tollas
Top Scholar for Barton House K Singh
Top Scholar for College House S Tysoe
Top Scholar for Corpus Christi House B Smith
Top Scholar for Tonbridge House I Gregory
Randall Prize for Top Scholar H Allsebrook
Parents’ Association Prize C Mcleish
Parents’ Association Prize A Shearer
Parents’ Association Prize P Mead
Parents’ Association Prize T Edwards
Parents’ Association Prize A Warne
Parents’ Association Prize S Scott
Parents’ Association Prize G Frankham
Parents’ Association Prize B Chibambo
Special Prizes
Ben Babington-Browne Memorial Music Trophy
C Foster
Bruce Malcolm Cup for Golf F White
Carter Cup for Cricket P Swart
Chiefy [CPO Gude] Prize
B Smith
Christopher Turner cup for Excellence in French H Allsebrook
Claydon Prize for spoken French M Collins
Clubman Cup for Soccer A Cragg
Daniel Carlton Trophy E Brown
David Kerr Cup for Outstanding Leadership
Scott
Debating and Public Speaking Plate I Marriner
Design Trophy A Yarmus
Dr Christine Hart-Scott Award in memory of Ernest Hart OM H Shepherd
Duffield Cup for Shooting
Expressive Arts Cup
SSgt R Rist
B Toledo
Gary Stock Prize for Improved Performance in Sixth Form S Hollis
Gravitts Prize for All Round Achievement and Service
Heard Cup (RAF)
Hodges-Pocock Geography Prize
B Brooks
CWO M Scott
L Fleet
Howard Cup for Classics C Cooper
Jane Matek Prize for Science
B McGeorge
Jubilee Prize for Service N Cornford
Lamprey Cup (Army)
Maidstone Football Cup for Rugby
Martin Passmore Cup
Mary Clark Prize for Drama
RSM J Hicks
M Davoren
Z Veitch
E Wiles
Naomi Lumutenga Cup for Global Engagement T Yu
Old Maidstonian Alex Stewart Award
Old Maidstonian Ted Clifford Award
P Swart
J Hawkes
Paul Evans Prize for GCSE Fieldwork I Pedder
Richard Clark Cup for Fieldwork C Hancock
Sir Henry Moore Cup (RN)
Streatfield Manning Prize for Service and Influence in the School
CWO K Jenner
N Casburn-Cowan
