TO THE PUPIL PERSPECTIVE
ETHAN GLUCINA UPPER SIXTH, 2025
What does a Head of School do?
As Head of School, I try to be engaged in as many areas of our School community as possible. Simultaneously, I aim to look out for boys across the year groups and ensure our voice is being heard by Senior Management.
Perhaps one of the most rewarding aspects of the job is organising charity events and fundraisers.
In November, I organised the ‘Movember’ campaign, and as a School, we raised over £8,000 to support men’s mental health. Next term, we are hosting a whole School ‘Colour Run’, raising money to support local primary schools.
Why did you want the job?
Previous Heads of School have been positive influences on me, and my application to be Head of School reflected my desire to inspire the next generation of Tonbridgians. I strive to lead by example and encourage every boy around me to become the best version of himself.
What has your time at Tonbridge been like?
It’s been fantastic! Every year, term, and even day at Tonbridge has been full of adventure and excitement.
What have been your favourite moments?
Captaining the School’s basketball team, a school trip to the East Coast of America, and being invited to speak in Parliament to MPs immediately comes to mind. However, one experience in the Novi particularly stands out perhaps as my most embarrassing. In my first term, my housemaster encouraged me to join the Junior House Debate Team.
Unknowingly, I went along with it. Standing in front of my peers for the first time, the A4 paper in front of my face shook and my knees were practically knocking together. My voice stuttered, I froze, and my team was knocked out in the first round... despite the loss, it was the support I received from my Housemaster, Matron, and friends that was unforgettable. It was their efforts to rebuild my confidence and get me back on my feet that led to more recent debating successes! It’s these little moments of community and support at Tonbridge that I most cherish.
What are your main interests academically?
Part of the reason I love Tonbridge is that it has allowed me to explore my diverse range of interests.
My experiences at Tonbridge have rounded me as a person and allowed me to develop my passions to the fullest. “
I take Maths, Physics, Economics, and English at A-Level. In addition to this, I completed a Spanish Language Qualification and wrote an Extended Project Qualification on the legality of mass government surveillance.
Although I don’t have definitive future career plans, I envision myself potentially becoming a lawyer. (I have an offer to read Law at Trinity College, Cambridge, but I’m still waiting to hear back from the universities that I applied to in the US — which has a more liberal arts style education!).
And what co-curricular activities have you been involved with?
Primarily, basketball, competitive debate, Law Society, and teaching mindfulness meditation.
Do you think that Tonbridge’s mix of boarders and day boys works well?
In short, yes. I don’t think it matters whether you’re a boarder or a day boy. In lessons, societies, chapel, or on the sports field, we all just see each other as Tonbridgians.
What advice would you give now to your younger self, just starting out in the Novi?
Take a breath and focus on what excites you. When I first arrived, I felt slightly overwhelmed by all the opportunities — in my first term, I rushed to try fives, debate, the Physics Olympiad, Film Club, mindfulness, and the guitar, all for the first time.
I now realise that trying to do what I thought other people wanted me to do is not as rewarding as just focusing on what I loved. So, embrace the opportunities available, use the support networks, and remember to have fun!
What has Tonbridge taught you?
Prepare for the unexpected! Every journey at Tonbridge is unique, and I never expected to meet so many different people. My experiences at Tonbridge have rounded me as a person and allowed me to develop my passions to the fullest.