As we move through another busy and rewarding week, I would like to begin by reflecting on what was a truly special occasion last Friday evening. My thanks go to Mr Saunders for organising the Senior Sport Dinner, which brought together 94 senior students and 16 members of staff in a wonderful celebration of sporting achievement. It was a joy to see so many of our students recognised for their dedication, teamwork and success over the past year. The dinner marked the welcome return of an event that has been absent for some time, and it was fantastic to see it re-established as such a memorable and uplifting evening for our school community.
The spirit of
adventure was very much alive over the weekend as our Year 9 students took part
in their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Practice Walk. My sincere thanks go to Miss
Alloy, Miss Adams and the staff team who gave their time to support the
students on this important step in their journey. With the sunshine firmly on
their side, students were able to enjoy the beautiful Kent countryside at its
very best. Experiences such as these not only build resilience and independence
but also create lasting memories - and by all accounts, it was a hugely
positive and enjoyable weekend for everyone involved.
This week also
marks a significant milestone for our Year 11 and Year 13 students as they
formally begin their GCSE and A Level examinations. Although the main
examination period starts on Thursday, many have already approached earlier
assessments with focus and determination over recent weeks. This is an
important moment in their educational journey, and I know they will rise to the
challenge ahead. We wish them every success and encourage them to approach the
coming weeks with confidence and calm.
Alongside this,
we prepare to say farewell to our Year 13 students, with Leavers’ Day taking
place this Friday. It is always a poignant occasion - filled with both
celebration and reflection - as students mark the end of their time with us.
The Leavers’ Assembly remains a particularly special tradition, bringing the
entire year group together one final time to share memories and sing the School
Song. It is a moment that captures the spirit of their journey here, and we
send them forward with our very best wishes for the exciting opportunities that
lie ahead.
I would also like
to celebrate an outstanding individual achievement. Congratulations to Rigzen of
Year 10 and Tonbridge House, who recently competed in the 2026 British
International Open Taekwondo Tournament in Manchester and secured a gold medal
in his junior weight category. This is an exceptional accomplishment,
particularly as it was his first G1-ranked competition. Rigzen’s success is a
testament to his dedication and commitment; since being selected for the
British Taekwondo Development Squad in October 2025, he has trained
intensively, travelling regularly to Manchester and even working alongside GB
Olympic athletes. We are incredibly proud of him.
Finally, I cannot
end without recognising the efforts of Mr Saunders and Mr Highsted, who both
took on the challenge of the London Marathon in their own distinctive ways. Mr
Saunders completed the official race in an impressive time of 3 hours and 56
minutes - an excellent achievement. Meanwhile, Mr Highsted opted for a rather
unconventional approach, setting off at midnight and running the course in
reverse alongside around 2,000 others, finishing in 4 hours and 30 minutes.
Both efforts reflect determination, humour and a willingness to embrace a
challenge - qualities we value highly in our community.