Editorial

The Lent Term has been electric at Tonbridge School. In January, the Barton Science Centre opened its doors to teaching and learning, and its impact on school life has been immediate. Walking around the building, you are more likely to see teachers and students building a Heath Robinson machine side-by-side than you are to see a teacher lecturing at the front of a class in block rows. Best of all has been the boys’ feedback: “Overall it has just made lessons more exciting.”

In March, we became host to NASA astronauts Dr Michael Foale and Dr Steve Swanson who, together with a team of experts, ran a week-long competition for local schools inspired by NASA's own development programme. The week culminated in the official opening of the Barton Science Centre, which brought together nearly 200 guests and ended with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque amid a shower of confetti.

It wouldn’t be right, therefore, to pick any other theme but science for this edition. Kicking things off, From The Chalk Face comes to you via Head of Physics, Phil Deakin. We also pay tribute to Tonbridge’s distinguished scientific history, looking back through our alumni and highlighting some of the incredible OT scientists who have been commemorated in the new building, as well as hearing from recent OTs who have pursued a scientific career.

And now for the elephant in the room. Brexit. We’re told that this country has had enough of experts… But how could we possibly experience a year like this without seeking the expertise of OTS President and former Clerk of the House of Commons, Lord Lisvane? George Baker’s (WH5) interview with him in the aftermath of March’s Brexit votes is not to be missed.

Finally, you may have noticed a shift in style to your alumni magazine. The new-look OT Magazine better supports the kind of storytelling we’re bringing you in order to offer a well-rounded picture of the lives of OTs across the world, focusing on both the professional and the personal. We hope you like where we’re taking it.

As ever, thank you to the many Old Tonbridgians that contributed. If you would like to share a story for a future edition, or our E-newsletter, please do get in touch.