Life in the SIXTH FORM
TONBRIDGE ONLY CONNECT
Key stats
• 800 pupils aged 13-18
• 450 Boarders, 350 Day Boys
• Seven Boarding Houses
• Five Day Houses
• 150 acre campus
• 40 minutes from London
HEADMASTER’S WELCOME
Sixth Form is a defining moment—a bridge between school and the world beyond. At Tonbridge, it’s an extraordinary opportunity to inspire, challenge, and prepare your son for a future full of possibility.
Since our foundation in 1553, Tonbridge has specialised in educating boys, tailoring our teaching to suit them, creating 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.
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.
This success is underpinned by our Sixth Form curriculum, recognised by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) as a “significant strength”—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.
Sixth Form at Tonbridge is more than just preparation for exams. It’s a springboard for life. We equip our students not only with the qualifications they need for university but with the skills and networks that will serve them for life.
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. Through leadership opportunities, a rich co-curricular life, and meaningful community engagement, our boys develop resilience, independence, and a generous spirit.
As Headmaster, I am proud to lead a school with such a rich tradition, yet one that is constantly evolving—a true home and community for our boys, parents, and staff. We look forward to welcoming you.
James Priory Headmaster
ACADEMIC LIFE
Academic Curriculum
The Sixth Form is where intellectual curiosity meets academic ambition. Our students benefit from small class sizes, expert teaching, and a curriculum designed to challenge and inspire.
With 26 A-level subjects across four tailored pathways, every student can shape an academic journey that aligns with their strengths, passions, and future ambitions. These pathways offer a flexible combination of three or four A-levels, an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) for in-depth research into a chosen subject, additional language qualifications, and our Tonbridge Life Skills Programme—preparing boys for life beyond school.
Find out more by reading our Sixth Form Choices Guide:
WHAT TEACHERS SAY
“At Tonbridge, I can push the students beyond the curriculum and take them to new places, even first year universitylevel.”
Academic Enrichment
Learning extends far beyond the classroom. Our broad enrichment programme spans all subjects, ensuring that students are challenged and inspired.
Independent research, critical thinking, and the art of debate are central to a Sixth Form education at Tonbridge, with students regularly securing top results in academic and debating competitions.
Academic extension is embedded in School life, with visiting speakers from Oxbridge, MIT, and industry leaders providing fresh perspectives and pushing intellectual boundaries.
Societies in areas such as Engineering, Medical, Trading and Law, in addition to Model United Nations simulations offer platforms for students to explore their wider interests and career aspirations. Hands-on projects, such as the UK Youth Rocketry Challenge provide further avenues for students to test their skills and innovate.
WHAT INDUSTRY EXPERTS SAY
“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
LIFE BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
Sports and the Arts
Our co-curricular programme is diverse, giving students the chance to explore new interests, hone existing talents, and develop the leadership skills that set them apart.
From sport and music to drama and outdoor pursuits, every Sixth Former is encouraged to take part, whether that means representing the School in a First XV rugby match, performing in a professional-standard musical, or captaining a debating team.
Our Music Department is widely regarded as one of the best in the UK. Tonbridge is an “All Steinway” school, and our world-class facilities include the Chapel’s Marcussen Organ, two recital halls, a music library, designated rock and percussion suites, and a double recording studio. Guided by a distinguished conductor who has performed with many of the of the UK’s top orchestras, the department nurtures musicianship at every level. Our students frequently gain places at leading universities and conservatoires, as well as performing at prestigious venues in the UK and internationally.
The EM Forster Theatre offers boys the chance to be part of professional-level productions, holding eleven productions each year, often in collaboration with local girls’ schools. Whether mastering the art of acting, directing, or production, students explore every element of theatre—following in the footsteps of alumni like Beauty and the Beast’s Dan Stevens.
Tonbridge was recognised as an Olympic training venue for London 2012, and has provided a pathway for a host of international, county and professional sportsmen over the years. In addition to our 150 acres of meticulously maintained pitches, our facilities include state-of-the-art gyms, and an award-winning swimming pool. Professional coaches lead as many as 30 sports each term, including Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Climbing, Cross-country, Fencing, Fives, Football, Golf, Hockey, Judo, Rackets, Rugby, Sailing, Shooting, Squash, Swimming, Tennis, Ultimate Frisbee, and Volleyball.
Clubs, Societies and Trips
Our co-curricular programme doesn’t just enhance university applications; it shapes confident, well-rounded individuals, ready to take on the world.
We build time into the school week for activities and clubs to thrive. With over 30 clubs and societies, there’s something for everyone—whether it’s Arcana (Maths), Beekeeping, Drama, Formula 1 Design, Investors Club, Model United Nations, Robotics, or Rocketry. And if a student’s passion isn’t yet represented, they’ll be fully supported in starting their own venture.
Our community engagement programme, Tonbridge Community Action (TCA), was praised as a “significant strength” by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (2024) for its impact in enhancing the boys’ confidence, communication and leadership skills.
Our student-led South Asian, Jewish, Islamic and African-Caribbean Societies allow boys from similar backgrounds to meet new people, share experiences and educate their peers about their cultures.
We organise approximately 24 overseas trips each year, covering a wide range of academic subjects and co-curricular interests. Recent highlights include a US Colleges tour and a Design, Technology and Engineering trip to Bologna. An array of recent sports tours include Ultimate Frisbee, Sailing, Tennis and Skiing, as well as a Football tour to Real Madrid.
LIFE AFTER TONBRIDGE
Life Skills
At Tonbridge, our goal is clear: to prepare boys for life beyond school—so they are ready to thrive at university, excel in their first careers, and make a meaningful impact in the world.
Our Life Skills programme introduces five key areas: Cookery; First Aid and personal safety; Personal Finance; Employability Skills; and Global Perspectives. The latter explores major world issues, ensuring that Tonbridge boys develop a well-informed, outward-looking perspective.
Alongside this, our extensive careers programme provides expert guidance at every stage. Sixth Form students benefit from mentoring by Old Tonbridgians and career insight days spanning industries from finance to the arts. Whether a student has a clear career ambition or is still exploring their options, we ensure they leave Tonbridge with the tools and connections to succeed.
Our support doesn’t stop at graduation. Tonbridge has one of the most active alumni networks in the country, offering career advice, professional connections, and a lifelong link to the School community. Wherever their journey takes them, Tonbridgians remain part of something bigger.
The Tonbridge School Careers and Universities student journey:
WHAT INDUSTRY EXPERTS SAY
“Sixth Form pupils are fully prepared for life beyond school, empowered to take control of their futures and achieve their ambitions.”
Talk Education
Latest university destinations: How we support boys applying to Oxbridge:
Results and Destinations
Tonbridge students consistently achieve some of the best results in the country. Each year, they go on to win places at leading universities in the UK and internationally, including Oxbridge and Ivy League institutions. The significant majority go to their first-choice destination.
In addition to Oxbridge and Russell Group universities in the UK, we have strong and growing relationships with leading universities in North America, with an ever-increasing number of boys choosing to study abroad. Through specialist support—including SAT preparation, guidance on applications, supplements, and rigorous interview training—we ensure our boys are wellprepared for the process. Consequently, they achieve excellent success rates—a record number of offers were secured in 2024, with most boys receiving four or more, far exceeding the national average. See our recent destinations via the QR code above.
Our dedicated Universities and Careers Department provides tailored guidance and
support throughout the Sixth Form, working closely with both students and their families. We actively involve parents in discussions and can arrange virtual meetings to explore options in greater depth.
Support is personalised to each student’s ambitions. We offer expert guidance on UCAS applications, entrance exams, and tailored interview preparation—including one-to-one practice interviews with Oxford and Cambridge academics. Our workshops cover every aspect of the application process, from CV writing and cover letters to interview assessments and professional networking. Subject-specific mentoring ensures students receive focused support in their chosen fields.
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.
95% go to top universities worldwide 96% of A-level grades A*/A/B
WHAT PARENTS SAY
“Sixth Form at Tonbridge was the best decision we ever made. The opportunities, the tailored support, and the environment have brought out the very best in our son - we couldn’t be happier.”
Former Parent
LIFE IN BALANCE
Wellbeing
Success isn’t just about academic and co-curricular achievements—it’s about happiness and wellbeing. Sixth Form is an exciting yet demanding time, and we ensure every student has the support they need to thrive.
Wellbeing is embedded in school life, with a dedicated programme covering mindfulness, stress management, sleep, and nutrition.
The House system ensures that every student is known and cared for as an individual, whether they are a Day Boy or Boarder, with Sixth Form Tutors providing guidance on both academic progress and personal development. Our pastoral care is second to none, with professional counselling, mentoring, and peer support initiatives readily available.
Our Pastoral Education and Citizenship Programme equips students with the skills to lead confident, healthy lives. Covering physical and mental wellbeing, relationships, digital awareness, and citizenship, it fosters emotional intelligence and self-awareness.
Parents are actively involved, with regular updates and opportunities to engage through events such as the Parents’ Pastoral Conference and Webinar Series.
WHAT INDUSTRY EXPERTS SAY
Tonbridge provides “a strong support network that reduces stress, increases emotional resilience and allows pupils to focus on their education.”
Independent Schools Inspectorate
LIFE IN THE HOUSE
WHAT TEACHERS SAY
“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
The House System
At Tonbridge, a boy’s House is far more than just a place to live or meet—it’s his home, his community, and the heart of his school experience. Whether Boarding or Day, each boy belongs to a close-knit group of around 15 in his year, ensuring a strong sense of belonging from the moment he arrives.
Every House is led by a Housemaster, supported by a team of Tutors and, in Boarding Houses, a dedicated Matron. Together, they provide academic guidance, pastoral care, and practical support—offering encouragement during busy times, a listening ear when needed, and a reassuring presence throughout a boy’s journey at Tonbridge.
House life is vibrant, with a full calendar of inter-House competitions in art, music, film, and sport, as well as House plays and concerts. While competition is keen, the focus is on camaraderie and shared experiences, helping boys build confidence and friendships that last a lifetime. For Sixth Formers, House life also provides leadership
opportunities, both formally through specific House roles and informally in leading House teams and organising events.
Day Boys benefit from the School’s boarding ethos, with extended access to facilities and activities beyond the formal school day. Their Houses remain open into the evening, serving as a familiar and welcoming base.
Each Day House is equipped with common rooms, study spaces, games rooms, changing areas, and outdoor spaces for relaxation and recreation. Dining together is a key part of House life—Day Boys eat in their House or at the Orchard Centre, just as Boarders do, reinforcing the School’s strong sense of community.
We have a team of in-house chefs and caterers dedicated to each House, offering dietician-approved meals, with daily deliveries from local suppliers to ensure freshness. With our own bakery and butchery, we cater to all dietary needs.
Pictured above: boys competing in House Music and House Climbing
WHAT STUDENTS SAY
“Before I joined Tonbridge, I was nervous about being so far from home. However, my worries were quickly put to rest by my Housemaster, Matron and friends who helped to create my new home. We have a strong sense of community here - we build each other up rather than push others down.”
Ethan, Head of School
Boarding
Boarding at Tonbridge is built on a foundation of community and belonging.
In Sixth Form, boys may become Senior Students, spending one or two terms in a dedicated House under the supervision of a resident staff member. While remaining part of their original House, they enjoy greater independence and longer periods of uninterrupted study.
Evening activities include socials with partner girls’ schools, featuring quiz nights, bowling, and meals out.
Weekends 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, and enjoying the School’s excellent facilities, including the Sports Centre.
Many local boarders choose to stay, appreciating the sense of community, while overseas students are often invited to friends’ homes or take part in cultural trips organised by the Overseas Student Committee.
Those who live longer distances return home six times a year for holidays, or choose to stay with a guardian or friends. During exeats, trips to cities like Oxford, Cambridge, Rome, and Madrid offer new cultural experiences.
For families joining from overseas, International Student Liaison Officer, Barbara Pring provides essential support. With over 30 years at Tonbridge, including 15 as a Matron, she ensures boys settle in quickly. From securing visas and setting up bank accounts to arranging airport transfers, Barbara helps make the transition to life in the UK seamless.
LIFE IN A CONNECTED COMMUNITY
Our Inclusive Community Tonbridge is a richly diverse community, welcoming students from over 30 countries. This rich tapestry of backgrounds and perspectives creates an environment where boys learn to embrace different viewpoints and develop a deep sense of respect for others.
The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) noted that “Pupils can be themselves, with no pressure to fit in with a particular ‘norm’” and that they “promote tolerance, equality, diversity, and inclusion exceptionally well.”
While we specialise in educating boys, we also recognise the importance of learning alongside girls. Our strong partnerships with local girls’ schools, including Benenden, offer opportunities for shared academic, pastoral, and social experiences. Through these connections, boys at Tonbridge not only thrive academically, but also become adept in the art of collaboration and mutual respect— essential skills for life beyond school.
LIFE AS WE KNOW IT
ARJUN, SIXTH FORM STUDENT
“Coming to Tonbridge has been one of the best decisions of my life. Initially, I was nervous about coming into the Sixth Form, when everyone else had known each other for three years beforehand.
When I arrived, I found it very easy to adjust, making close friends both in and outside of my House through subject extension courses, sport, societies and School events.
With the small class sizes, I am able to connect with both my peers and my teachers on a deeper level. I enjoy how passionate teachers are about their subject area - they constantly push us to think more critically and develop our own perspectives on what we are learning.”
HENRY, SIXTH FORM STUDENT
“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 the individual student’s potential. From every major Department to every last activity, students and staff alike display a passion about their subjects that serves to propel students 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.”
FREDDIE OGILVIE (HS 18-23)
History, St Catharine’s College, Cambridge
“Tonbridge helped me immensely in preparing to apply to Cambridge. I was lucky to have Dr Dixon as my History teacher who knew the process very well, so was able to direct me to extra reading and source work.
The History Department ran mock interviews as well as primary source analysis sessions to get us comfortable voicing our opinions confidently and critically.”
NICK LAIDLAW (WH 19-24)
Chinese, Pembroke College, Oxford
“My teachers, Mr Wu and Ms Yu, were such an inspiration. They’re the reason why I took Chinese for A-level and have now been accepted to Pembroke College, Oxford to study it next year.
Beyond my academic studies, I may not have been the best at sport, but I enjoyed getting stuck in. I represented the School at chess and enjoyed the camaraderie of House events. The House spirit at Tonbridge is incredible!”
DENYS MIALKOVSKYI (OH 22-24)
Denys joined the School from Ukraine in 2022. He is currently studying in the US at the University of Delaware on a Sporting and Academic Scholarship while he pursues his Olympic swimming ambitions.
“Although I’ve come from another country, Tonbridge School is just like one big family, warmly welcoming you.”
LIFE IN TONBRIDGE TOWN
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.
Previously voted the “happiest place to live in the South East,” the town is framed by the rolling hills, bluebell woods, and ancient paths of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Its impressive 13th-century castle and wealth of historical buildings serve as a reminder of the town’s rich heritage.
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