Mr Mossman's Reflections
Relationships matter
Surprisingly, I didn’t like Latin until half way though Year 9. My teacher was Mr M. He was young(ish), funny and knew his stuff. But I was in a class of thirty and the mobile classroom was too stuffy, so I continued to use a well-honed trick of hiding at the back of the room and slowly sliding underneath my desk. I felt that I had developed the power of invisibility. And then my crazy dog, Luke, changed everything. Luke was a terror. He would chase anything on four legs/wheels and had the awful habit of locking his jaws permanently to whatever he caught. He was a horrendous risk for cows, lorries and particularly other dogs. I liked to walk Luke along the local river, jauntily making my way beneath the willows and high banks, an antique walking stick in my hand– don’t judge my early nerdiness. Occasionally, I would take the gamble and let Luke off the lead thinking I could see any hazards ahead. A mistake. One day, over the top of the banks he went, like a little black, muscular bullet…and the howls began. I ran to the top and to my horror there was my Latin teacher, Mr M, and his lovely border collie – with Luke seemingly attached permanently to its neck. Mr M immediately leapt into action. He grabbed my stick and set about whacking Luke with some force. The stick snapped and Luke went flying. And with that broken stick and crazed animal began a much closer interaction between Mr M and myself. We had something in common (Luke induced PTSD) and suddenly, weirdly, I wanted to learn. Latin became my thing. I am sure we can all think of a teacher who successfully built a connection. They inspired us and made us love their subject, because they took the time to get to know us, made a joke with us or congratulated us on our successes. Of course, relationships between classmates are also immensely important, as is the relationship between teachers and parents. Such positive relationships are essential when it comes to education; excellent connections lead to excellent results and excellent emotional wellbeing. Positive relationships act as the vital breeding ground of the skills that are essential for the workplace of the future: communication, collaboration and creativity. They also give the vital sense of belonging that makes us feel more confident, want to engage, take risks and show resilience when things go wrong. Worryingly, just over 60% of students nationally feel a sense of school belonging, with it being lower for girls than boys. Correctly, this has therefore become a major focus in recent government reforms. So, it is essential that everyone in our school community, be it student or teacher, is able to build a network of relationships by modelling the habits of politeness, respect, kindness, inclusivity and empathy. There is a natural divide between teacher and student, but it is important that we respect the humanity of all; teachers don’t power down like robots every evening and young people have their own dignity and very much want a life beyond school subjects. By building bridges we can all work better, collaboratively and successfully. And working at such an excellent school as Kent College, I know that it does not take an incident that should probably have been reported to the RSPCA to make this happen.
Sports Update
Athletics Club
Last Thursday and Friday was a busy few days for our athletics teams. Both the Junior and Inters Athletics Track and Field squads came 6th on Thursday in the Regional B final, this was against some big schools such as St George's Weybridge, Benenden school, Surbiton High and Sevenoaks school. The weather was torrential all day and the students just got on with it and performed really well. On Friday in Ashford at the Kent IPS athletics championships we had some brilliant performances: Rosie won the HJ with a PB of 1m47 (this is a 7 cm PB), she came 2nd in the Javelin so will go to National Finals in both events. Imi won the 200m so will represent KC at the National Finals in this. Kayla K won the shot with a PB of 8m35, she will also go to National Finals. Izzy won the HJ with a PB jump of 1m30 and will also go to National Finals. Olivia in Year 6 (who is coming to the senior school) will also attend National Finals after a 2nd place performance in the javelin. Lottie came 3rd in the 1500m just missing out on a place at National finals by a few seconds. These are some fantastic results for the students, well done everyone!
Cricket News
On Thursday our U15 cricket team played in the County tournament at Colfes. The students did incredibly well in their matches and are now through to the finals! The results: Game 1: KC v Eltham College KC 82 – 3 off 8 overs EC 54 – 3 off 8 overs KC win by 28 runs Highlights: Jess G 23 off 7 balls, Erin 22 off 14 balls and Elodie 2 wickets for 6 runs off 2 overs. Game 2: KC v Chislehurst and Sidcup C&S 58 – 3 off 8 overs KC 61 – 0 off 6.4 overs KC win by 7 wickets Highlights: Jess R 22 off 11 balls, Erin 20 off 13 balls and Elodie 1 wicket for 10 runs off 2 overs. Congratulations to our team: Erin M, Jess R, Elodie O'D, Jess G, Chiara W, Jenny G, Grace M, Bella A, and Iris L. Your hard work, dedication and teamwork have made this achievement possible, well done to everyone.
Welcoming Our German Exchange Students
This week we welcomed two students from the prestigious boarding and day school, Schloss Neubeuern, based in the historic castle in Bavaria, Germany. Mia and Mariella spent time with us as part of a cultural and language exchange programme. During their visit, they experienced life at a British boarding and day school, attended lessons, immersed themselves in boarding life, improved their English skills and built friendships with our students. The exchange also provides exciting opportunities for our own Sixth Form students studying the German Business course, who will have the chance to visit the Schloss Neubeuern for a week. There, they will enjoy a week-long immersion programme, including a crash course in German, participation in school lessons and first-hand experience of boarding life in Bavaria, enjoying the outdoors in the Alpine foothills, helping to deepen their language skills and cultural understanding.
"The best things about Kent College are the Art and Food Tech lessons, as well as the time after school in the boarding house."
Drama Visit to the Assembly Hall Theatre
Year 12 A Level Drama and Gold Arts Award students had the pleasure of visiting the Assembly Hall Theatre in Tunbridge Wells this week for an engaging backstage tour and talk. The experience proved truly inspirational, offering students a unique opportunity to explore the stage, travel on the stage lift, stand within the hemp lighting tower and try their hand at operating follow spots and the sound desk. They also enjoyed a behind-the-scenes tour of the building, including the cast changing rooms and backstage areas. A true insight into professional theatre. We look forward to returning to the theatre again next year.
Year 7 Taster Day
On Saturday, we were delighted to welcome Year 5 pupils, alongside students from Kent College Prep, for our Year 7 Taster Day. The day was packed with exciting activities designed to give pupils a taste of life in Senior School. In Food Technology, Mrs Lusher taught students how to make their own ice cream, while in Art, Mr Dixon guided them in creating colourful gecko-themed cards. Mrs Payne hosted a lively drumming workshop and Miss Mortlock challenged pupils with an epic escape room experience. Meanwhile, on the Confidence Course, Mr Mossman, Mrs Johnson, Chaplain Katie and Mr George led a series of team-building activities, encouraging pupils to work together, solve problems and build new friendships. The afternoon concluded with a well-earned BBQ, giving everyone the chance to relax and reflect on a fun-filled day. Special thanks to Josie, Isla, Enye and Ella (Year 8), Harriet, Gisele and Lula (Year 11), and Boo and Riley (Year 12), who gave up their Saturday to welcome visitors, support the activities and help make the experience so enjoyable for everyone. Their enthusiasm, kindness and maturity were a real credit to Kent College.
Tower of London Visit
Year 7 braved the soaring temperatures on Friday and had a fantastic time at the Tower of London. They heard stories about the theft of the crown jewels, the legend of the ravens and the history of the White Tower. They had the chance to see engravings done by prisoners, the memorial to Henry VIII’s executed wives and sculptures of the many exotic animals that were kept at the Tower. There was of course plenty of time for shopping and ice cream at the end. ‘I loved the talk from our guide John about Anne Boleyn. I was also really impressed by the Crown Jewels. Eating my sushi lunch by the ravens was amazing as well.’ - Lucy ‘The trip was really informative but fun as well’. - Oli ‘I liked seeing the prison cells where Guy Fawkes was held and all the engravings made by prisoners on the wall. Everyone going to Starbucks at the end was fun as well!’ - Fearne
Confidence Course Club
After school on Monday, the Confidence Course Club tested their strength (and their harnesses) on the rope crossing over the pond. It was a time of triumph and glory as they all successfully crossed the treacherous expanse of murky water. Next up: The Zip Line! We will keep you posted!!
The Railway Children Rehearsals
Rehearsals have been in full swing this week as our talented cast and crew prepare for this year’s production of The Railway Children. The rehearsal room has been filled with energy and enthusiasm as students bring this much-loved story to life, working hard to develop their characters and refine key scenes. From emotional family moments to lively ensemble sections, the cast are beginning to capture the warmth, humour and heart of the story. The technical and backstage teams are also making fantastic progress, ensuring that staging, lighting and sound work seamlessly to create the world of the railway. It is already shaping up to be a truly engaging and memorable production. Performances will take place on Monday 22nd June and Tuesday 23rd June at 6:30pm in our Countess of Wessex Theatre. The show will run for approximately two hours, including a 20-minute interval for refreshments. Our students and staff have worked incredibly hard to create what promises to be another fantastic performance. We know the audience will love every minute!! Tickets are priced at £15 for adults and £10 for students. We look forward to welcoming you.
Student Voice
Hello! My name is Lottie, and I am excited to be your new Head of Saxons! As well as this exciting role I have also been appointed Sports Captain and Geography prefect. I am very grateful to be part of the school officer team as it is a great experience for the future and has allowed me to develop so many new skills. I joined KC in Year 7 and I am currently studying Economics, Geography and PE, as well as recently completing an EPQ based on the developments on women’s sport, with the hope of studying Geography with Economics at University. Alongside my academics, I enjoy many sports, especially cricket, which I have been enjoying, but very busy with this term! As Head of Saxons, I work alongside the other House Captains to organise activities to raise money for our chosen charities, as well as lifting house spirit and making sure everyone feels happy and included in school life. We are also currently working on exciting events together as we get closer to sports day and hope for it to be fun and enjoyable for everyone. We are also planning to make preparations for sports day in our next house assembly with the help of our newly appointed Year 10 and 11 house representatives, who I am very excited to start working with. I hope everyone enjoys the forthcoming events, and if there is anything specific you would like to see from us, we would love to hear from you!! Hope to see everyone ready and rearing to go at Sports day – COME ON SAXONS!!!!
Student Spotlight - Celebrating Success Beyond the Classroom
We are delighted to celebrate our students’ achievements beyond the classroom. When your child has enjoyed success in sport, music, drama, dance, art, academic competitions, volunteering, leadership, or any personal accomplishment, we would love to hear about it. Please use this form to share achievements with us.
What's On at Kent College
Opera Gala
Friday 26th June at 6:30pm, Old Pembury Church
It will be a whirlwind tour of the most famous operas through the ages with narrator, solos and chorus. If you would like to know a little bit more about opera, this is the perfect opportunity! From Carmen to the Pirates of Penzance, this proves to be a fun evening with some exceptional singing from Years 6 to Lower Sixth. We also have two professional opera singers performing along with our students who have sung at Glyndebourne and the Royal Opera House: Rory O'Connor and Olivia Safe. We are also delighted that Mr Showell has agreed to be our pianist for this exciting opera showcase. Do come along and enjoy a wonderful evening of fantastic music. Refreshments will be available at the interval in the Organ Room and the concert is expected to end at 8:30pm. Tickets are £15 each for adults and £5 for students. Dress is either black tie or just smart, if you don't have a tux!
Save the Dates
Sports Day - Wednesday 8th July
The excitement is building for Senior School Sports Day as the Dane, Celt and Saxon houses go head-to-head in a day of competition, teamwork and house spirit. Come along and cheer them on!
Speech Day - Thursday 9th July
We are delighted to invite you to Speech Day, where we will celebrate the achievements of our students and welcome Olympic gold medallist Lizzy Yarnold as our guest speaker.
Parent Toolbox
Prep Sign-up Links
Free Prep A homework sessions take place in the library everyday after school (1 hour 15 minutes), providing a focused and supportive environment for students to complete their work. To help maintain concentration, phones are not permitted, and students are encouraged to bring a book to enjoy once their homework is finished. A late bus is available, with sign-out at 5:25pm. Parents collecting their children should come to the main school office. You can find the sign-up links for 2025–26 below:
Prep B sessions (1 hour) are designed for students staying beyond 5:30pm and take place in Boarding and the Dining Hall. Students also have the option of enjoying supper (additional charge applies). The sign-up links are below:
All sessions must be booked in advance for safeguarding purposes.
Second Hand Uniform Shop Opening Dates
Our Second Hand Uniform Shop is a wonderful opportunity for families to purchase good-quality pre-loved uniform items at affordable prices while also supporting sustainability within our school community. Whether you are preparing for a new term, replacing outgrown items, or simply looking for spare uniform pieces, we encourage you to come along and browse the available stock. We look forward to welcoming you at the upcoming opening dates listed below.
- Friday 26th June: 3:00pm to 4:15pm.
- Wednesday 1st July: 8:30am - Induction Day
Please email kcseniorshop@gmail.com if you cannot make these dates and would like to arrange a visit.
60 Seconds with Mr Brewer, PE Teacher
Tell us a bit about yourself...
I have been involved in education for over 30 years, with around half of that time spent in senior leadership positions. In 2025, I made the decision to step away from leadership responsibilities and return to what I enjoy most – teaching and inspiring young people through sport. I feel incredibly fortunate, grateful and proud that Kent College is now my place of work. It is a fantastic school with a strong sense of community, outstanding opportunities for students and a genuine commitment to helping every student achieve their potential. Sport has always played a significant role in my life and much of that passion came from my parents. My Dad was actually offered a professional football contract by Cardiff City in 1960, but he turned it down because he felt there would not be enough money in football to make a living. Looking back, that decision seems quite remarkable given the modern game! My own sporting journey began with football, cricket and swimming, before cricket eventually became my main focus. Although a serious knee injury brought my playing career to an end at the age of 25, I remain grateful for the opportunities the sport gave me. I was fortunate enough to play alongside some legendary figures in the game, experiences that created lifelong memories and taught me valuable lessons about teamwork, resilience and commitment. Today, I gain just as much satisfaction from coaching cricket and helping young players develop their skills, confidence and love of the game. One of the highlights of my life away from education came in 2003 when my wife and I took the opportunity to travel around the world. Our adventures took us to Canada, Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, Thailand and the USA. Travelling opened my eyes to different cultures, perspectives and ways of life and I would encourage anyone to embrace opportunities to explore the world if they can. So far, I have visited 30 countries, which still leaves another 165 on the list!
What do you enjoy most about teaching?
The most rewarding aspect of teaching PE is helping students develop their skills and seeing the enjoyment, confidence and sense of achievement that comes when they realise how much they have improved. Those moments when a student achieves something they once thought was impossible are incredibly special. My aim is to inspire students to become lifelong participants in physical activity, whether that means competing in sport, exercising recreationally or simply understanding the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Sport has a unique ability to bring people together and teaches valuable life skills such as communication, resilience, teamwork, leadership and respect. These qualities extend far beyond the sports field and help prepare young people for success in all areas of life. I also greatly enjoy the academic side of PE. The subject combines scientific understanding with practical application, allowing students to explore topics such as anatomy, physiology, psychology and performance analysis. At Kent College, we are fortunate to offer GCSE PE, A Level PE and BTEC Sport, ensuring that students have a pathway that suits their individual strengths, interests and future aspirations.
What top advice would you give to students studying your subject?
My biggest piece of advice is simple: always give your best effort, regardless of your current ability level. PE is not about being the fastest, strongest or most naturally talented person in the class. It is about improving, challenging yourself and developing confidence through perseverance. Never be afraid to make mistakes. Mistakes are an essential part of learning and often provide the greatest opportunities for growth. Be willing to step outside your comfort zone, try new activities and embrace challenges with a positive mindset. I would also encourage students to stay active beyond school, look after their physical and mental wellbeing, eat well, stay hydrated and get sufficient rest. Small daily habits can have a significant impact on both sporting performance and academic success. Finally, always show respect to your teachers, teammates, opponents and officials. Support those around you, celebrate the successes of others and remember that character is often revealed by how you behave when things do not go your way. Most importantly, enjoy being active and focus on becoming the best version of yourself. The habits, attitudes and values you develop through PE can benefit you throughout your life.
What are the department highlights and upcoming events?
As always, we will finish the academic year with two of the most anticipated events in the school sporting calendar: Sports Day and the Sports Awards Evening. Sports Day promises to be another fantastic occasion, bringing together students, staff and families to celebrate athletic achievement, house spirit and healthy competition. Whether competing on the track, in the field events or cheering on classmates from the sidelines, every student plays an important role in making the day memorable. The battle to be crowned Sports Day champions is always fiercely contested and creates a wonderful atmosphere across the school. The Sports Awards Evening, taking place on Wednesday 8th July, will provide an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate another successful year of sport at Kent College. The evening recognises outstanding individual and team performances, but equally importantly, it celebrates dedication, perseverance, improvement, leadership and positive attitudes. It is always inspiring to see the breadth of sporting talent within our community and to acknowledge the many pupils who have embraced every opportunity to contribute to school sport. Looking ahead, we are excited to continue building on the strong sporting culture at Kent College, providing opportunities for every student to participate, compete, develop and enjoy the many benefits that sport can bring.
Lunch Menu For Next Week
Summer Holiday Clubs
Kent College Gym Academy
Our Summer Camps are a fantastic way to experience gymnastics in a fun, supportive environment. Whether your child is new to the sport or already loves gymnastics, everyone is welcome.
Camp Beaumont
To celebrate this summer's Football World Cup, Camp Beaumont is launching a special World Cup-themed Flash Sale from Thursday 11th June until Wednesday 17th June (11:59pm). For a limited time, you can save 20% on Summer Camps and programmes by using the code CBWC26 at checkout. As an added bonus, every booking made during the flash sale will automatically be entered into Camp Beaumont's World Cup prize draw, with the chance to win a range of fantastic prizes including branded football shirts, footballs and water bottles. The more days you book, the more entries you'll receive, increasing your chances of winning. Need flexibility? Add Flex to your booking for just £4 per day and enjoy the freedom to make changes right up until the last working day before your booking. Families can also spread the cost by paying in three instalments or delay payment for 28 days using Klarna.
Raw Skills
Come and join Raw Skills Hockey Academy this summer, with international players and coaches on both camps. This is the perfect opportunity for bespoke hockey coaching and to have fun in the sun.
Have a wonderful weekend
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