FROM THE CARIBBEAN TO TONBRIDGE
TONBRIDGE ONLY CONNECT
Key stats
• 800 pupils aged 13-18
• 450 Boarders, 350 Day
• Seven Boarding Houses
• Five Day Houses
• 150 acre campus
• 40 minutes from London
At Tonbridge, we understand that choosing a school is one of the most important decisions a family will make—particularly when that choice involves sending your child overseas. It is, without doubt, a significant step, but rest assured, we have decades of experience in guiding families through this transition, ensuring that each boy feels at home from the moment he arrives.
Since our foundation in 1553, Tonbridge has specialised in educating boys. We recognise that boys mature at their own pace and learn in ways that differ from girls. By tailoring our teaching to suit them, we create a classroom dynamic that is more engaging, individual and relaxed. This allows boys to focus on their strengths, explore new interests and develop the confidence to challenge themselves in all areas of school life.
Tonbridge is one of the UK’s leading schools, with our boys achieving some of the best exam results in the country and progressing to top universities in the UK, the US and worldwide. Our academic curriculum has been recognised as a “significant strength” by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI)—an accolade awarded only in exceptional cases. This reflects our commitment to intellectual curiosity, ambition and a culture that encourages boys to think critically and creatively.
But education at Tonbridge extends far beyond the classroom. We encourage our boys to make connections—connections between subjects, between people, and
between cultures—with the aim of producing fine minds and good hearts. Our ethos is summed up in just two words: ‘Only Connect’. These values are woven into every aspect of school life, inspiring boys to engage with the world around them and develop a deep sense of responsibility and compassion.
While we specialise in educating boys, we understand the importance of their development in partnership with girls. That’s why we foster strong academic, pastoral and social links with local girls’ schools, including our close partnership with Benenden. Through joint initiatives, activities and events, our boys build meaningful friendships and develop the confidence, respect and understanding that prepare them for life beyond Tonbridge.
We take great pride in our long-standing tradition of welcoming overseas families to Tonbridge, and our community represents over 35 nationalities. Our overseas alumni have gone on to extraordinary success, including internationally acclaimed author Vikram Seth and Oscar-winning filmmaker Vikram Jayanti. Their achievements reflect the curiosity, creativity, and ambition we seek to inspire in every Tonbridgian.
As Headmaster, I am proud to lead a school that makes a home for individuals from a variety of cultures, backgrounds and life experiences, and we will be keen to welcome you.
James Priory Headmaster
ACADEMIC CURRICULUM
Academic curriculum
The School is consistently recognised in the Sunday Times Parent Power Schools Guide, with pupils progressing to top tier universities across the globe, including Oxbridge and Russell Group universities in the UK; Harvard, MIT and UC Berkeley in the US; and similarly prestigious institutions in Austria, Australia, Canada, China, and Hong Kong.
Our curriculum was recognised as a “significant strength” by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI)—a rare and exceptional accolade. It has been designed to develop skills identified by The World Economic Forum as crucial for the future, including complex problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, leadership, resilience, and flexibility.
At A-level:
26 subjects available
94% of all grades A*/A/B
Teachers are young, dynamic, highly qualified and all too happy to run subject workshops or drop-in sessions for anyone needing extra support. The staff list reads like a who’s who of education. Talk Education
A-levels
A-levels are valued on an equal footing to the International Baccalaureate (IB) by all global universities, and are particularly well-regarded for their depth of study.
A-levels take a more specialised approach to education, enabling students to focus on three or more subjects that align with their academic strengths, career aspirations, or personal interests. This in-depth focus helps students build a strong foundation of subject-specific knowledge, making A-levels an excellent choice for those with a clear direction for university study or future careers.
The structure of A-levels also fosters independent learning, encouraging students to develop the critical thinking and selfdiscipline required for success at university and beyond.
94% of University Admissions Officers believe A-levels prepare students to degree-level study, compared to 55% for the IB*
US Destinations
• Harvard
• MIT
• Princeton
• Columbia
• University of Chicago
• Duke
• Northwestern
• UC Berkeley
• Cornell
• University of Toronto
• UCLA
• McGill University
• University of British Columbia
• University of Southern California
• University of North Carolina
• Purdue
• NYU
• Northeastern
• Clemson University
We have strong and growing relationships with leading universities in North America, with an ever increasing number of boys choosing to study abroad each year. Through specialist support— including SAT preparation, guidance on applications, supplements, and rigorous interview training—we ensure our boys are well-prepared for the process. Our boys achieve excellent success rates— see our recent destinations above.
95% go to top universities worldwide
Universities and Careers
Our Universities and Careers team provides tailored guidance and support throughout every pupil’s five years at Tonbridge. From helping First Years explore their interests and aspirations to guiding Sixth Formers through university applications, our focus is always on finding the right path for each individual. Parents are an integral part of the journey too. We actively include families in discussions and can arrange virtual meetings to explore options in more detail.
Our support extends beyond a boy’s time at Tonbridge. We offer guidance after leaving school, assisting with post-qualification university applications in the UK and internationally, securing work experience or internships, and providing networking opportunities and career advice.
CO-CURRICULUM
“Extracurricular activities are predictably unpredictable for these truly fortunate boys. Our guide said he wished he had more hours in the day in which to fit in everything that he’d like to do and, indeed, the list of options is very nearly endless.”
Talk Education
Co-Curriculum
Tonbridge offers a vibrant programme of co-curricular activities, offering boys the ability to pursue their passions, which in turn, helps them to develop into well-rounded, confident adults.
Tonbridge’s outstanding facilities were recognised as an Olympic training venue for London 2012. Professional coaches lead as many as 30 sports each term. Cricket is a very popular sport and many of the boys play at a high level. Tonbridge alumni who have represented England include Kenneth Hutchings, Colin Cowdrey, Roger Prideaux, Chris Cowdrey, Richard Ellison, Ed Smith and Zak Crawley.
The arts play a key role in Tonbridge life and are central to nurturing the creativity, passion and individuality of every boy. Our alumni include Oscar award-winning documentary filmmaker, Vikram Jayanti, and author of A Suitable Boy, Vikram Seth.
Tonbridge is an All-Steinway school and 40
per cent of our boys learn to play an instrument. The Drama department stages 11 productions a year, often with the involvement of girls from local schools. Boys take part in all aspects of production, including set design, stage management and lighting.
Space is made in the regular weekly curriculum for activities and clubs to flourish. Boys are introduced to the wide range of activities available, such as Formula 1 Design, Investors Club, Model United Nations and more. Many boys also opt to join clubs and societies, with over 30 on offer, including Arcana (Maths), Beekeeping, Drama, Robotics and Rocketry, to name a few. The School’s African-Caribbean Society was founded by our students in 2020, and has become an important forum for boys of African and Caribbean heritage to connect and celebrate Black cultures in all their forms. This runs alongside the Jewish, Islamic and South Asian societies, which collectively benefit Tonbridgians of all backgrounds.
30+ societies available, from Rocketry to Beekeeping
40% of pupils learn at least one musical instrument
30 varieties of sport played at all levels of ability
11 drama productions each academic year
“Long tradition of sporting excellence, but ethos of participation by all. Everyone has the chance to play in a team – sport is for life here, and for all to enjoy.”
The Good Schools Guide
BOARDING AT TONBRIDGE
Boarding
A Tonbridge Boarding House is more than just a place to live—it’s a home, a community, and a foundation for lifelong friendships. Each boy is part of a close-knit House of around 12 in his year group, giving him a strong sense of belonging from the moment he arrives.
Every Boarding House is led by a Housemaster, supported by a dedicated Matron and a team of Tutors who get to know each boy individually. They provide academic guidance, practical day-to-day support, and pastoral care—whether that’s encouragement during busy times, a listening ear, or simply a reassuring presence.
House life is vibrant and varied, with a full programme of inter-house competitions in art, music, film, and sport, as well as House plays and concerts. While competition is keen, the focus is always on camaraderie and shared experiences, helping boys build confidence and develop friendships that last well beyond their time at Tonbridge.
“Our House system is a really sophisticated way of supporting the boys as individuals and for them to feel known, cared for, valued and accepted for who they are. House staff remain the same throughout a boy’s time at Tonbridge.”
Richard Evans, Housemaster
“My role is to work alongside and in partnership with parents, to ensure the very best pastoral support for their sons. At the end of their time here, I hope both parents and sons leave with many good memories, not least that their Matron really cared about them as a family.”
Wendy Challis, Matron
“I make a point of getting to know each boy and their family before they arrive, so that I’m a familiar face when we meet at the airport. My priority is making the transition from home to school as smooth as possible. Time differences across the world are no barrier for me, I am used to being woken in the middle of the night.”
Barbara Pring, International Student Liaison Officer
Logistics
For families joining us from overseas, our International Student Liaison Officer, Barbara Pring, is a key point of contact. With over 30 years at Tonbridge, including 15 as a Matron, she offers both practical and pastoral support, ensuring they settle in quickly and feel at home.
As part of her role, she will help your son secure a student visa, take him to and from the airport, and help him set up a UK bank account, ensuring a smooth transition to life in the UK.
Weekends and holidays
Weekends at Tonbridge offer a balance of rest, recreation, and social time. Around 15–20 boys typically stay in each House, spending their time much as they would at home—relaxing, catching up on sleep, sharing brunch with friends, and making use of the School’s excellent facilities, including the Sports Centre.
Many local Boarders choose to stay in School over the weekend, enjoying the sense of community and the opportunities on offer. Our overseas boys are often invited to the homes of their English friends and can also take part in a variety of cultural trips and activities organised through the student-led Overseas Student Committee.
Evening entertainment includes socials with girls from our partner schools, with events ranging from quiz nights and bowling to meals out together.
Boarders can go home six times a year: at the end of our three terms and during each half-term break. Some overseas boys arrange to stay with their guardian or a friend in the UK during the holiday period. During exeats, Barbara arranges trips to cities such as Oxford, Cambridge, Rome, and Madrid, offering boys the chance to explore new places and experiences beyond Tonbridge.
“Pupils from all backgrounds and cultures integrate happily together during lessons and social times.”
Independent Schools Inspectorate
“Boarding provides a safe and happy environment where pupils thrive socially and emotionally.”
Independent Schools Inspectorate
“Our menus are designed with a balance of tradition and innovation, ensuring we cater to the diverse tastes and dietary needs of our community. We take inspiration from global cuisines while maintaining the quality and nutrition that fuel our students every day.”
Oliver Towler, Development Chef
What do Boarders love about Tonbridge? Watch our video to find out
Nutrition
Tonbridge is unusual in that each House is supported by a qualified team of trained chefs and caterers. Boarders return to their House for each meal and are joined by their Housemasters and Tutors. We have gained a healthy eating award for our dieticianapproved dishes, and cater to all dietary requirements. We insist on daily deliveries from local suppliers to maintain freshness and operate our own bakery and butchery.
Beyond Tonbridge
The bond that is built between our boys in the House and in the classroom is one that they will carry with them through life. They develop an extended family during their time at Tonbridge, from their fellow pupils to the teachers who have been so formative. It is a pleasure to see how many of our boys remain close friends beyond their time at the School. To help facilitate this, our thriving Old Tonbridgian network holds year-group reunions, university meet-ups and professional networking events throughout the year, and is a valuable support system to boys as they progress through their careers.
MY LIFE AT TONBRIDGE
PENNY & ZACHARY
“Zachary has gained a lot coming to Tonbridge, including offers to Cambridge and MIT. He’s also become a very rounded young man, who is endlessly motivated. I am very proud of him and I’m so grateful for the support Tonbridge has given him during his time at this wonderful school.”
Penny
Tonbridge helped me to recognise and realise my full potential
“I would say I am most grateful for being exposed to the upper echelons of academic acheivement. It gave me the confidence and self-belief to know that I can compete with the very best.”
Zachary
“What I learnt at Tonbridge has shaped everything I’ve done as a filmmaker, travelling the world in search of compelling stories and extraordinary characters. Tonbridge was a great place to set out from. And it was there, 50 years ago, that I met another Vikram, my friend and teammate on the School House debating team: Vikram Seth, destined to be the great Indian novelist. The rest is history.”
TINA
“As an expat mother of three I have come across numerous schools around the globe. Tonbridge undeniably distinguishes itself through its outstanding educational standards, state-of-the art facilities and an exceedingly warm and welcoming atmosphere. Tonbridge not only raises the bar high in academics, but also in the realms of sports and pastoral care.
It does not come as a surprise that Tonbridge is among the top 10 schools in the UK. This School consistently inspires each student to grow to their fullest potential, nurturing them not only academically, but also as global citizens of the future, to be the best versions of themselves.”
Our son’s experience at Tonbridge has been nothing short of exceptional
HENRY
“I have been welcomed by both staff and peers since my very first day, and this has made Tonbridge truly feel like home even while being so far from it. The environment here truly maximises your individual potential. From every major department to every last activity, students and staff alike display a passion for their subjects which propels them through anything they choose to undertake at the School. Alongside an excellent campus and facilities, Tonbridge offers an amazing student life and thoroughly prepares you for what is next.”
NEWS HIGHLIGHTS
TONBRIDGE SCHOOL RECEIVES RARE ACCOLADES IN INSPECTION REPORT
Tonbridge is delighted to announce the results of its recent inspection by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI), in which it earned the rare accolade of “significant strength” twice. Strengths are awarded sparingly, and are reserved for schools that demonstrate truly exceptional standards.
MIT STUDENTS SHARE EXPERTISE IN GLOBAL TEACHING PROGRAMME
Two MIT undergraduate students, Jenna and Sahil, spent January 2025 based at Tonbridge School, delivering lessons and hosting workshops in their subject specialisms. The partnership also gave boys the opportunity to find out more about studying at one of the world’s most prestigious universities.
FLOYD STEADMAN OBE DELIVERS TALK TO TONBRIDGE’S AFRICANCARIBBEAN SOCIETY
Tonbridge’s African-Caribbean Society welcomed elite rugby player and former educational leader, Floyd Steadman OBE, for an inspiring talk in Old Big School. Sharing his journey from a challenging childhood in the care system to captaining Saracens F.C. and leading multiple schools as Headmaster, Floyd spoke about resilience, perseverance, and overcoming prejudice.
THE WEST INDIES COME TO TONBRIDGE FOR TEST MATCH TRAINING CAMP
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 as they prepared for the Richards-Botham Test Series against England.
LEAVERS HEAD TO TOP GLOBAL UNIVERSITY DESTINATIONS
In 2024, leading universities extended a total of 44 unconditional offers to our Leavers. Among those heading stateside, boys will be pursuing degrees at prestigious institutions such as UCLA, NYU, University of Michigan, Purdue University, and Clemson University.
HEAD OF SCHOOL CONTRIBUTES AT NATIONAL FORUM IN PARLIAMENT
Head of School, Ethan, recently spoke at Westminster Palace at an event exploring the role of mindfulness in education. A cross section of MPs and peers attended, including Professor Lord Richard Layard, one of the world’s leading experts on wellbeing.
WHERE WE ARE
Getting to Tonbridge
Nestled in the heart of Kent, Tonbridge is a quintessential English market town that offers the best of both worlds: a peaceful, safe environment with easy access to the capital.
Framed by the rolling hills, bluebell woods, and ancient paths of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the town is steeped in history. The impressive 13th century Tonbridge Castle stands as a reminder of its rich heritage, along with its wealth of historical buildings.
The School is at the top of the town’s vibrant high street, surrounded by independent shops, cafés, and cultural attractions. The River Medway flows through the town, offering opportunities for rowing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, with the annual Dragon Boat Race bringing the community together in a vibrant display of teamwork and competition.
With excellent transport links, Tonbridge is just 40 minutes from central London by train. London airports are within easy reach too, with Heathrow just an hour away by car. As part of the commuter belt, Tonbridge has a strong, family-friendly community, making it an ideal place for young people to live and learn.
1 hour from Heathrow Airport
40 mins from Central London