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TONBRIDGE ONLY CONNECT
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Students at Tonbridge School have once again achieved remarkable GCSE results, with 46 per cent of all grades being the highest possible of grade 9.
An impressive 74 per cent of grades awarded were 9 or 8, the equivalent of an A*. Nearly half of the year group, 77 boys, earned nine or more of these top grades. Additionally, 109 boys, more than two-thirds of the cohort, secured nine or more 9-7 grades, equivalent to A*/A.
James Priory, Headmaster, congratulated the Third Year cohort: “I am delighted to see the boys’ commitment and dedication rewarded in such a strong set of GCSE results today and congratulate all of our staff, too, on the excellent support and encouragement they have provided. We look forward to welcoming the boys back as they now embark on their Sixth Form studies”.
This year, an impressive 95 per cent of all grades awarded are A*, A or B, with 76 per cent of those being A* and A. Notably, almost half of the cohort (81 boys) have achieved straight A* and A grades.
Launched in 2020, the Sixth Form Curriculum allows students to develop advanced specialisation in their A-level subjects while maintaining a broad academic experience through options such as the Extended Project Qualification and additional language courses.
74%
GCSE RESULTS of GCSE results at 9 or 8, the equivalent of an A*
109 boys secured nine or more 9-7 grades, equivalent to A*/A
95%
A-LEVEL RESULTS of all grades awarded at A*/A/B
76% of all grades awarded at A*/A
Leavers head to top global university destinations
Tonbridge School’s recent Upper Sixth leavers are preparing to pursue university degrees around the world at top universities in the UK, United States, Portugal, Australia and Hong Kong. Following outstanding A-level results, 95 per cent of students have since secured their places at high-tariff institutions. More than 66 per cent of students received four or more university offers in 2024- significantly more than the national average.
Within the UK, boys secured places at Oxford (12), Cambridge (11), Bath (9), Bristol (14), Durham (19), Edinburgh (16), Exeter (14), Imperial College, London (5), St Andrews (7), UCL (10), Warwick (6), among others.
A total of 44 unconditional offers were made by leading US universities in 2024. Six boys will shortly be undertaking degrees at such leading institutions, including UCLA, NYU, University of Michigan, Purdue University, and Clemson University. Additionally, one student has been accepted into a prestigious joint international
honours programme between St Andrews in the UK and William & Mary in the US.
A wide range of courses are being pursued. Highlights include admissions to competitive fields such as Aerospace Engineering at the universities of Sheffield and Bristol, Biochemistry at the University of Edinburgh, English at Durham, Geography at London School of Economics and Political Science, Philosophy at Bristol, Computer Science at the University of Cambridge and Medicine at Imperial College and Oxford.
UNIVERSITIES
95%
Tonbridge students went on to attend Russell Group and high-tariff universities worldwide.
Twenty-three places at Oxbridge were secured by our students
A new chapter in Tonbridge’s cricketing history was written as the School hosted a visit by the West Indies cricket team.
Led by captain Kraigg Brathwaite, the squad was based at Tonbridge between Tuesday 25 and Thursday 27 June as it prepared for the RichardsBotham Test series against England, which began in July.
Players used the School’s facilities, and in particular The Head, its renowned cricket pitch, across three days of training. Many boys were able, between lessons, to watch the team practising in the nets, while a number of the School’s cricketers even had the opportunity to have a bowl at the international players.
After two days in the nets, the West Indies played a warm-up game on their final day. Later they mingled with the boys, signing autographs and posing for selfies, as all at Tonbridge wished their visitors a fond farewell.
Chris Morgan, the School’s Director of Sport, said: “This was such an exciting week, providing our students with a first-hand glimpse into the
lives of professional cricketers. It was an unforgettable experience too, for those students who were able to test out their skills on the pitch against world-class players.
“Our hosting of the West Indies further enhances our reputation as one of the premier cricket schools and locations in the country, and we wish the squad well for the rest of their tour.”
The Lower Sixth attended their first seminar of the year on 18 September, featuring guest speaker Ella Al-Shamahi, a British explorer, comedian and evolutionary biologist. Ella shared her inspiring journey, including a daring trip to Socotra, Yemen, and her rise as a National Geographic “Emerging Explorer.” She encouraged students to pursue their passions, even unconventional ones, like her love for science and comedy. Her talk emphasised resilience, hard work and the importance of staying true to oneself.
Tonbridge ‘Question Time’ as Sixth Formers put their questions to the Chancellor
Former Chancellor Jeremy Hunt visited Tonbridge for a political discussion with Sixth Formers, hosted by Times columnist Patrick Maguire. Students asked about global conflict, taxation, Brexit and political ideologies. Hunt also spoke with Upper Sixth Politics students, inquiring about their views on the US Presidential election and careers in politics.
Debare (FH4) won the Senior Boys Discus at the English Schools Athletics Championships, setting a new TSAC record with a throw of 53.11m, despite being a year younger than his competitors. His victory helped Kent win the Senior Boys category. Debare was also named the U20 National Champion for Discus.
Talking cricket: Zak returns to Tonbridge and discusses life as an England player
England cricket star Zak Crawley (WH 11-16) visited Tonbridge in May, where he watched School cricket practices, signed memorabilia and met students from both Tonbridge and The New Beacon. After a reception, Zak participated in a sold-out Q&A event with Mark Nicholas and Ed Smith, discussing his career, batting approach and preparation routines. Zak reflected on his journey from Tonbridge to England’s national team and his admiration for players such as Viv Richards.
Rugby team gears up with actionpacked pre-season Basque Country tour
A group of 32 senior rugby players from Tonbridge’s 1st and 2nd XV, along with four staff, embarked on a pre-season tour in the Basque Country. Led by Rhys Crane and Sam Farmer, the tour featured daily training sessions, a victorious match against Saint Jean De Luz and teambuilding activities like surfing and attending a rugby derby. The six-day trip, blending rugby and cultural experiences, provided a strong foundation for the upcoming season, with highlights including exploring Bayonne, Biarritz, and San Sebastian and enjoying the warm local culture.
CCF Cadets participated in Ex Guardian of Thunder at Brunswick Camp over Easter, practising tactical skills such as section attacks and ambushes. They tested their marksmanship at Ash Ranges and tackled the Pirbright Assault Course.
Adventure-filled Geography trip to Ardèche
Year 9 students from Tonbridge and Kent College Pembury visited the Ardèche during May half-term for the Novi Geography Field Trip. Led by Chris Battarbee, the group engaged in team-building activities like climbing, caving, and zip-lining. The trip ended with a two-day canoe journey along the Ardèche River, followed by bivouacking under the stars.
Sixth Formers spent five days in Berlin exploring the city’s rich culture, history and art, with visits to galleries like the Gropius Bau and Neue Nationalgalerie. They practised German, created street art and learned about Berlin’s history on a bike tour. The trip also included photography, workshops and local cuisine.
Boys, OTs and staff made the much-anticipated trip to Sri Lanka to visit partner charity Child Action Lanka (CAL) in July, experiencing the remarkable work they do to support and empower vulnerable children and communities.
The Tonbridge group were based at the CAL Child Development Centre in Batticaloa which was built with financial support and equipment from the School. More than 400 children and young people living in extreme poverty are welcomed to the Centre and offered educational classes including English and Computer Skills.
James Priory, Headmaster, was invited to formally open the Centre in a ceremony attended by students, families, government officials and community partners. Children of the Centre also delivered a presentation of the Child Rights Declaration to Nifal Alawdeen, UNICEF Education Officer.
The group participated in a variety of activities to help improve the lives of the 400 children who regularly access the Centre.
The trip also featured a fantastic amount of cricket. Children were split into five teams,
supported by the Tonbridge boys, and competed for the Tonbridge Cricket Cup 2024. The tournament was hugely popular and an opportunity to discover exceptional cricketing talent, particularly among girls.
There were opportunities for the boys to visit the homes of children who use the Centre and the two schools that partner with CAL. Here, they taught, played games and engaged in meaningful conversations about the hardships and barriers that these communities face, which left a lasting impact on both sides.
“Your story completely changed my view on homeless people and their positions in life. It has opened my eyes.” These are the words of one of Tonbridge’s Novi who, alongside the rest of his year, spent the night of Tuesday 21 May taking part in the annual Novi Sleepout.
By sleeping rough in the Quad, the boys raised more than £23,500 for Porchlight, a Kent-based charity supporting the most vulnerable on the county’s streets.
Boys also heard a moving talk from ‘Mossy’, who is employed by Porchlight as a coach and keyworker. Mossy explained how bereavement and addiction led him to life on the streets, before he found help in the services of Porchlight and, ultimately, was able to share his story to help others.
African Caribbean Society holds annual garden party
The African Caribbean Society (ACS) held its annual garden party on Thursday 27 June. This marks the fourth year of the ACS, which has become an important forum for boys of African and Caribbean heritage to connect and celebrate Black cultures in all its forms, for the benefit of all Tonbridgians.
Pupils amongst all-time greats in International Mathematical Olympiad
Alex and Isaac earned gold and silver medals at the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) in July, representing the UK. Alex ranked eighth in IMO history, while Isaac has recently begun reading Mathematics at Cambridge. The UK team placed sixth out of 108 countries, marking the best result since 1995. It is extremely rare for two IMO team members to be from the same school.
On 20 May, Lower Sixth students from Tonbridge, Judd, Weald of Kent and Tonbridge Grammar School participated in a regional Science competition. The theme involved investigating products from the Super Sugar Candy Store for compliance with regulations. Teams conducted tests on vitamin C, dye content, and baking soda.
Shakespeare expert gives talk at Tonbridge and hosts Sixth Form seminar
Award-winning Shakespeare scholar Dr Ben Higgins held a seminar at Tonbridge School on 19 April, discussing Hamlet with Upper Sixth students preparing for A-levels. Lower Sixth Oxbridge applicants also attended. Dr Higgins, a Fellow at Oxford, shared insights from his award-winning book, Shakespeare’s Syndicate. Later, he gave a public lecture on the creation of Shakespeare’s First Folio.
marvels! Parkside team wins the DTE Inter-House Challenge
Tonbridge boys showcased their creativity in the DTE Inter-House Challenge by building marble runs, aimed at keeping a marble in motion for the longest time. Parkside won with a spiral maze design using a motor, while Whitworth and Manor tied for second.
Tonbridge students remain ‘on top of the world’ after Trinity Maths win
Tonbridge boys topped the global Trinity Maths Competition (Winter 2024), a contest testing problem-solving under time pressure. Competing against 122 teams worldwide, Tonbridge entered 12 teams. One team led by Toby, scored 910/1000, placing first globally for the second consecutive year. Another Tonbridge team placed third with 840/1000.
embark on day of workshops and tours as they explore university life
On June 6, Lower Sixth students participated in a Universities Day, focusing on Oxbridge applications. STEM students from Tonbridge collaborated with Benenden School, engaging in workshops and seminars about the application process, critical thinking and interview preparation. Meanwhile, arts and humanities students explored topics like literature and philosophy at Benenden.
Candlelit Shakespeare celebration captures spirit of The Bard
More than 60 boys participated in Tonbridge’s annual ‘Novi Shakespeare’ production, performing scenes from The Tempest. Novi boys portrayed key characters, and the hour-long event featured candlelight ambiance and musical interludes by Novi music Scholars. Organiser Peter Houston praised the boys for effectively conveying the play’s themes, capturing the atmosphere of Renaissance drama.
More than 70 young musicians participated in the Lower School Concert, showcasing talent through a diverse programme in the School Chapel. Highlights included classical pieces, Gershwin and Michael Jackson. Retiring teacher Tony Maloney received a standing ovation for his moving arrangement of “Earth Song,” celebrating his impactful 50-year tenure.
The Lower Sixth play, Musical Differences, enjoyed a short run at the EM Forster Theatre. Written as a form of direct address, the play poses creative challenges: there are no characters, no assigned lines and no stage directions, leaving much room for interpretation.
Francesca Bailey, Drama Director in Residence, said: “This gave the cast the opportunity to build their own characters, providing them with a sense of ownership which enriched their performances. They portrayed believable teenagers, whom our audience recognised and enjoyed. I was very proud of them.”
The play featured students from Tonbridge, Hillview School for Girls and Weald of Kent Grammar School.
Tonbridge’s Chapel Choir joined forces with that of The New Beacon for a spirited service of Evensong on the feast of Pentecost (Sunday 19 May). The combined choirs sang music by Stanford (in his centenary year) and Parry, along with a psalm and hymns.
Tonbridge wins prestigious environmental awards
Tonbridge has received notable recognition for its environmental efforts, being awarded the Eco-Schools’ Green Flag with distinction and the Wilder Kent Award for its Conservation programme. The Eco-Schools’ Green Flag signifies exceptional sustainability work, while the Wilder Kent Award acknowledges contributions to creating a wilder environment. The School’s initiatives include a weekly Conservation programme, installation of eco-friendly measures and partnerships with external organisations. Will Biddle and the pupil-led Green Committee have played key roles in enhancing environmental awareness and integrating sustainability into the curriculum.
All at Tonbridge are delighted that, once more, we are one of the finalists of the Independent Schools of the Year Awards 2024. This time, in contention for ‘Independent Boys’ School of the Year’ following a previous win in 2019.
Tonbridge School recognised in Carfax Education’s prestigious Schools Index
Tonbridge School has been featured in the fifth edition of Carfax Education’s Schools Index, the leading global ranking of the top 150 private schools. Included in the Top 25 UK Senior Schools, Tonbridge was selected not only for its academic results and university preparation but also for its unique ethos, reputation, and commitment to preparing pupils for life beyond academia.
Lisa Alford, Tonbridge’s Senior Chemistry Technician, received the Hauksbee Award from the Royal Society for her exceptional dedication to science engagement and inter-school collaboration. Since joining in 2009, she has significantly contributed to the scientific community, launching the Science Snippets competition and establishing the Science Technician Convention. Lisa’s leadership led Tonbridge to become the first UK school to earn Employer Champion status with the Science Council. As a STEM Ambassador, she inspires young scientists and enhances access to scientific tools.
The School community showed “extraordinary generosity” as Giving Day 2024 raised more than £580,000
Tonbridge’s Giving Day has, for the third year in succession, raised more than half a million pounds, with the current total exceeding £580,000.
£2m+
The total amount raised since the School’s inaugural Giving Day event in 2021, with donations going to the General Foundation Awards Fund.
This year’s event was supported by 750 donors as well as match funders, challenge gift sponsors, boys, parents, staff and the wider School community of Old Tonbridgians and friends.
Over a 36 hour period, during the last week of the summer term, hundreds of people across the School community worked together to help support Tonbridge’s mission of increasing its number of Foundation Award places.
James Priory, Headmaster, commented, “on behalf of everyone involved, a huge thank you for all your encouragement on this year’s Giving Day, not only for the community partnerships that benefit the boys throughout the year but also for supporting our Foundation Award programme, which thanks to your donations, continues to grow”.
The Novi and Lower Sixth hosted more than 600 children from 13 primary schools, all engaging in a huge range of sporting, artistic and academic activities, from art to Zen Zone, with highlights including wheelchair basketball, climbing, journalism, biology and musical theatre.
Everyone then came together in the wonderful School Chapel to enjoy a fantastic concert of film music, including themes from ‘Frozen’ and ‘Harry Potter’ on the organ and ‘Lord of the Rings’ and Empire Strikes Back’ from the full Symphony Orchestra.
The day culminated with a fantastic display, on the Head, of running ducks herded through obstacles by very skilled sheepdogs.
Off-site, our Second and Third Years helped with 12 projects at primary schools, churches and
other community centres. These included students clearing flowerbeds and setting up new outside seating areas at Tonbridge Baptist Church. At Princess Christian’s Farm, students helped to build an enclosure for ducks, geese and peacocks and at Longmead Primary School, they helped create costumes and set for the Year 6 production.
It was a special day and one where everyone felt incredibly proud of our students and staff.
Pictured are some of the activities taking place both at Tonbridge and in the community during Giving Day 2024.
BEN KATZ DEPUTY HEAD OF MATHS
Ben Katz’s journey from Belgium to Tonbridge has been marked by a dedication to both numbers and nurturing young minds. With a background in Natural Sciences from Cambridge and previous teaching experience at The King’s School, Canterbury, Ben joined Tonbridge in 2022, bringing with him a passion for shaping a vibrant, well-rounded experience for Tonbridge boys. He explains that teaching mathematics is more than formulas – it’s about equipping students with life skills that will serve them long after they leave the classroom.
As Deputy Head of Maths, Ben plays an instrumental role in both the academic and personal journeys of Tonbridge students. His enthusiasm for the subject is contagious, and he approaches each lesson with the aim of instilling a lifelong appreciation for problemsolving and critical thinking.
For Ben, Mathematics at Tonbridge isn’t just about building mathematical proficiency; it’s about equipping students with life skills. Whether it be teaching the principles of taxes or
the mathematics behind elections, he’s passionate about showing students the real-world value of their learning. He recalls a memorable lesson with an Upper Sixth student fascinated by the math behind a finance career. “You could see the awe – it was like a lightbulb moment, where he realised the vast applications of what he’d been learning.”
Ben’s role at Tonbridge extends beyond the classroom; he’s deeply involved in the Admissions process, meeting prospective students during interviews and exams. “One of the great joys is meeting boys from such diverse backgrounds and seeing their potential before they even set foot in Tonbridge,” he reflects. He also leads scholarship classes at The New Beacon, our linked prep school, providing him the rewarding opportunity to see students’ progression first-hand – from their first steps into the admissions process, through their arrival as Novi and as they mature throughout their time at the School.
Ben is an active member of the Tonbridge community. He coaches Senior rugby and football teams and referees matches for the
“The breadth of what’s offered here is unparalleled – not just within lessons but in every activity, left, right, and centre. Teachers here aren’t just teaching; they’re nurturing, guiding, and getting to know each boy as an individual.”
School and Kent Society. In 2022, Ben founded the Jewish Society with Sixth Former, Max Freudenheim (MH 18-23), establishing a space for meaningful discussion, connection and community. The Society meets monthly, holds Chapel talks and organises a range of social events like movie nights. One highlight was a talk by Duncan Lustig-Prean, titled A Lesson From The Holocaust, which brought the group together to reflect on history.
As a Tutor in Hill Side, one of Tonbridge’s Boarding Houses, Ben gets to know the boys in a more personal way. “You can have a ten-minute chat with any of them and find they always have something interesting to say,” he shares. These moments of connection deepen his appreciation for each student’s unique perspective.
Reflecting on Tonbridge, Ben observes, “There’s truly no other school like Tonbridge. The breadth of what’s offered here is unparalleled – not just within lessons but in every activity, left, right, and centre. Teachers here aren’t just teaching; they’re nurturing, guiding and getting to know each boy as an individual.”
Talan, a boarder in Hill Side, was among our leavers in the summer. Having completed A-levels in Economics, French and Religious Studies, he took up a place at the University of Exeter to pursue a degree in Theology. Talan reflects on his five years at the School as he describes what Tonbridge means to him, and also offers some advice for new pupils.
What are you studying now, and why was Theology your choice?
I am studying Theology at Exeter. It stems from the fact that Religious Studies was a subject I have always enjoyed, even at Prep School. Our relationship with religion and others is something I feel I understand instinctively.
What are your career aspirations after university?
I am uncertain where life will take me after uni. The world is changing too rapidly to commit so early in life. However, I have a couple of traditional doors open following work experience stints.
What might you be doing five years from now?
I hope to have autonomy, living a vibrant, challenging and satisfying life.
What has your time at Tonbridge been like?
My life at Tonbridge has been consistently good. As a city boy and an only child, the best aspects have been safety, and access to of all the School’s facilities at any time of day or night,. I also feel like I’ve gained friends who are now more like brothers.
“I’ve gained friends who are now more like brothers”
Is there one particular highlight or one favourite moment?
Tonbridge has provided me with many enjoyable moments but singing I’m Still Standing in front of the whole School in the House Music Competition was a real highlight.
Is there one teacher you would like to give a special mention to?
My Housemaster, Mr North, has been extremely supportive throughout my time at Tonbridge.
Overall, what has Tonbridge taught you, do you think?
The main thing Tonbridge has taught me is that hard work always pays off.
What advice would you give to a boy starting out in the Novi?
Do not stop giving 100 per cent. You don’t have to be the best, you just need to be the best you can be!
WILLIAM LO
William Lo (PS 95-99) has had an extraordinary career in paediatric neurosurgery since leaving Tonbridge, where he developed an intellectual curiosity that has underpinned his professional success. Currently, William is a Consultant Neurosurgeon and the Surgical Lead of the Epilepsy Surgery Service at Birmingham Children’s Hospital, one of only four nationally commissioned centres for epilepsy surgery.
Looking back, William recalls that it was during his time at Tonbridge that he was encouraged to pursue his interest in biological science and healthcare—a passion that took root in his biology classes, strengthened by his community service in a local retirement home. Fond memories of spirited debates in the lab and numerous weekends carrying out projects in his House were formative for William, fostering his love for learning and resilience in the face of challenges. He credits Tonbridge with helping him build the determination and sense of purpose he carries in his work today.
After leaving Tonbridge in 1999, William went on to study Neuroscience and Medicine at St John’s College, Cambridge, graduating in 2005. Since leaving university, he has obtained Fellowships with both the Royal College of Surgeons and the European Board of Neurological Surgery. He was awarded the Braakman Prize for Best Examination Performance by the European Board of Neurological Surgery in 2016. He completed a
“I feel privileged to be in a position to make a positive impact in children’s lives which they will carry with them into adulthood.”
fellowship at the world-renowned SickKids Hospital, Toronto.
In his current role at Birmingham Children’s Hospital, William leads one of the nation’s top paediatric epilepsy surgery services. His specialist areas include epilepsy surgery, complex childhood brain tumours, neuroendoscopy, robotic-assisted stereotactic surgery, and surgery at ‘eloquent’ brain regions, including brainstem and those that are responsible for limb, speech, vision and other essential functions.
He, along with his colleagues, is responsible for the 70 brain tumour and 60 epilepsy surgeries that take place each year at the hospital.
As well as his vital everyday work in the hospital, William has also been involved in a number of charitable efforts, recently leading a £1.5 million fundraising campaign to establish an intraoperative MRI scanner facility at Birmingham Children’s Hospital, a project that
earned him the Patron Award from Gymshark CEO Ben Francis in 2024. This new equipment will significantly reduce surgery times and the need for additional operations by providing real-time MRI imaging during procedures, and will come into service in August 2025.
William’s work has received national and international acclaim, with over 50 scientific publications and 70 abstracts presented at major conferences. He organises European intraoperative ultrasound workshops and is regularly invited to speak at conferences and teach at courses.
As well as his current role at Birmingham Children’s Hospital, William is co-chair of the British Paediatric Neurosurgery Group scientific committee, a member of the International Society of Pediatric Neurosurgery scientific committee, and a Surgical Tutor for the Royal College of Surgeons, for which he is responsible for 50 postgraduate surgical doctors. Of his work, William said: “I enjoy and am
passionate about paediatric neurosurgery. The pathologies and surgeries are challenging and demanding which it makes the work interesting. I feel privileged to be in a position to make a positive impact in children’s lives which they will carry with them into adulthood. A neurosurgical condition doesn’t just affect a child’s brain, but it has far-reaching impacts on his or her day-to-day activities, education, parents and grandparents, and siblings. It is most rewarding to provide truly holistic care to these children and families.”.
Reflecting on his time at Tonbridge, William recalls the camaraderie, academic challenges and steadfast encouragement from mentors who saw his potential and supported his ambitions. In 2014, he collaborated with fellow Tonbridge alumnus Mr. James Chan (PS 94-99) to update the neuroscience entries in the 4th edition of Mr. Clugston’s Penguin Dictionary of Science—a project that served as a nod to the School’s impact on his career and life.
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