TONBRIDGE SCHOOL

Konstantin attended an international school in his native Moscow until Year 8. He came to England when he was 13 years old to join Tonbridge as a boarder, and his family now live in the UK as well. Now a member of the Upper Sixth, Konstantin looks back upon his five years and picks out some highlights.

How would you sum it all up?

Being far away from home I initially feared being homesick, but Tonbridge never left me with that option. I was constantly involved in all sorts of activities, from Spanish drama to chess. This meant that I did not look back too much because there was just so much to try.

However, I could never have imagined that I would fall in love with the School in the way that I have. I have found a second home here: what I mean by ‘second home’ is that I am able to pursue whatever interests me and I have lots of support, just like I would back in Moscow.

What have been your stand-out moments?

The best moment has definitely been winning the English Schools Spanish Debating Competition. This was a reflection on our amazing Modern Languages Department and an experience I will never forget.

Something else I will cherish is being part of the Football 1st XI: we won the league and then the ISFA Trophy. Throughout the season, what stood out was the professionalism of the whole set-up surrounding the first team.

What will you miss most?

Spending evenings in the company of my closest friends in my boarding house, and the time we have with tutors in the coffee room.

What have you chosen to study after Tonbridge?

Spanish and Philosophy at UCL (University College London) and so I am not moving far away!

What has Tonbridge taught you?

To have an open mind in everything I do. Trying new things is part of the Tonbridge experience. It has also taught me the importance of building good relationships with fellow students, teachers and other staff – something that will be crucial at university and in the working world.