Mr Showell's Reflections
Happiness at Kent College At Kent College, our ASPIRE values guide so much of what we do—our ambition, our effort, our desire to grow. Yet woven through all of this is something wonderfully simple and equally important: happiness. It’s one of the qualities which helps students and staff flourish, not just in their studies or roles, but as people. When happiness is present, confidence grows, relationships strengthen, and learning becomes something we look forward to rather than something we endure. Scripture often describes happiness as something that grows from within a steady, rooted joy rather than a fleeting feeling. Psalm 1 paints the picture of a person “like a tree planted by streams of water,” flourishing because they are grounded and nourished. That image speaks directly to what we hope for every member of our community: to feel supported, valued, and able to thrive no matter what challenges come their way. At Kent College, we work intentionally to build a culture where happiness is part of everyday life. It shows up in small moments a kind word in the corridor, a teacher celebrating a student’s effort, colleagues supporting one another on a busy day. It shows up in bigger ways too: in the care we take with wellbeing and safeguarding, in the encouragement we offer, and in the way we celebrate each other’s successes. We know that life isn’t always easy. Students face pressures; staff juggle countless responsibilities. Yet the biblical reminder to “rejoice always” isn’t about pretending everything is perfect. It’s about choosing hope, gratitude, and connection even when things feel tough. That’s the kind of happiness we want to nurture here: one that helps us stay steady, positive, and kind. When happiness becomes part of a culture, it strengthens the whole community. In School, students learn better when they feel joyful and secure. Staff work better when they feel appreciated and supported. And together, we create an environment where everyone can bring their best . Happiness at Kent College isn’t an add‑on to our ASPIRE values it’s the quiet strength that helps them take root. When we choose joy, gratitude, and connection, even in challenging moments, we create a community where everyone can grow with confidence and purpose. As we continue shaping a culture where happiness is nurtured and shared, perhaps the most important question we can each carry with us is this: What will you do today to help happiness flourish in yourself, and in someone else?
60 Seconds with Mrs Mardon, Head of Geography
Tell us a bit about yourself...
I grew up in Durban, South Africa, and moved to the United Kingdom in 1999. This is now my 14th year teaching at Kent College. I began my time at KC part time while raising my three children and have gradually increased my days and responsibilities over the years — something I feel incredibly fortunate to have been able to do. During that time, my daughter was also a pupil at Kent College, so I’ve had the privilege of being part of the school community both professionally and personally. Sharing in her journey through the school has been a special part of my own time here. As Head of Geography and Assistant Head of Sixth Form, I’m fortunate that no two days are ever the same, from classroom teaching, field trips and revision sessions to one-to-one conversations about ambitions and future pathways. When I’m not at school, you’ll usually find me beside a rugby pitch watching my husband and sons, out walking with family and friends, or paddle boarding, often turning every outing into an impromptu geography lesson (much to my family’s amusement… or occasional exasperation!).
What do you enjoy most about teaching?
My favourite part of teaching is helping students realise that geography is everywhere in the news, in natural hazards, and in global issues. I enjoy encouraging curiosity and helping students understand that they can make a positive difference. One of the greatest rewards of teaching is seeing students grow in confidence and discover a sense of purpose because real happiness often comes from feeling that what you do matters and that you can contribute to something bigger than yourself. Mother Teresa has always inspired me, and I share her words when students wonder how they can help with big problems like war, food shortages, climate change and inequality. These issues can feel overwhelming, but her message is simple and powerful: small actions still matter. We may not be able to change everything, but small acts done with care and love can make a real difference and together, those small actions add up.
What top advice would you give to students studying your subject?
My top tip for Geography students is simple: look up from your phones. Be present. Immerse yourself in your surroundings, think about your place in the world and the difference you can make. Now, more than ever, we need young people who are willing to speak up about inequality, care about the planet and act with purpose. Geography gives them the lens to understand the world — and the confidence to help shape it.
What are the department highlights and upcoming events?
A particular highlight of 2025 was our unforgettable trip to Iceland — experiencing the volcanic landscape, whale watching and witnessing geography come alive. This year we’re heading to the Jurassic Coast, one of my favourite places and an excellent location to study coastal geography. I can’t wait to share it with the Year 10 students. “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.” Mother Teresa
Immersion Programme
This week we were delighted to welcome an immersion group from Hong Kong to our school. During their visit, students experienced life in our classrooms, taking part in lessons alongside their peers and gaining a real insight into day-to-day school life. As part of their cultural experience, they enjoyed a walking tour of London, exploring some of the capital’s most iconic landmarks and learning more about its rich history. The group also visited the historic city of Canterbury, where they discovered its stunning architecture and heritage. Among the many memorable moments was attending a performance of Les Misérables, an unforgettable theatrical experience that truly brought the magic of London’s West End to life. It was a pleasure to host the group, and we hope they leave with wonderful memories of their time here.
Photo Challenge for our Visitors
Mr Dixon challenged our immersion group visitors to photograph circles as accurately as possible in order to fit them into squares, then using Photoshop. produce a collage of the best four photographs
Unlocking Potential, Inspiring Performance
On Thursday, we were thrilled to welcome prospective students and their families to our Unlocking Potential: Inspiring Performance event, an evening dedicated to showcasing the strength, ambition and energy of sport at our school. Families discovered the depth and quality of our outstanding sports provision, from elite coaching and strength and conditioning to competitive pathways and performance analysis. Visitors toured our impressive facilities, seeing first-hand the environments where our students train, compete and excel. One of the standout moments of the evening was the Q&A session with our scholars. They spoke passionately about their sporting journeys, the balance between academic and athletic success, and the incredible support they receive from staff. Their confidence, dedication and achievements truly reflected the spirit of our performance programme. Students also took part in high-energy workshops, experiencing the intensity, focus and teamwork that underpin everything we do. It was fantastic to share our vision with so many aspiring athletes, and we look forward to welcoming the next generation of sporting talent to our community.
Drama Workshop
The Drama department had the pleasure of welcoming award winning Director, Writer & Producer Damon Beesley to deliver a talk to our Drama Scholars, Gold Arts Award & Film Studies students yesterday.
Damon Beesley is best known for his work on British comedy The Inbetweeners and New Zealand comedy Flight of the Conchords. He often works alongside his writing partner, Iain Morris. In 2017, a six-part comedy series, White Gold, aired on BBC Two in the UK which Beesley had directed, created and written.
He delivered an engaging overview of his professional journey, offering valuable industry insights and inspiring both students and staff alike. The afternoon was highly interactive, with students enthusiastically asking thoughtful, challenging questions. We all enjoyed his visit and hope to welcome him back again in the near future.
Astronomy GCSE Students Attend Inspiring Planet Hunters Lecture
Astronomy GCSE students recently attended a partnership event with Judd and Skinners’ School, where they enjoyed an exciting and educational evening focused on the search for distant planets. The highlight of the event was a fascinating lecture by Professor Noelia Noel on Planet Hunters, part of the Zooniverse project. Students learned how members of the public can become “citizen astronomers” by analysing real space telescope data to identify the tell-tale dips in starlight that may indicate the presence of exoplanets. The talk provided a brilliant insight into how our students can contribute to real scientific discoveries. Following the lecture, students enjoyed dinner together and had the opportunity to discuss what they had learned. The evening continued with an interactive classroom activity led by Dr Bebb (The Skinners School) giving students the chance to apply their new knowledge in a practical and engaging way.
It was an enjoyable and inspiring evening that sparked curiosity and enthusiasm for astronomy. If you would like your child to take GCSE Astronomy, please contact Head of Partnership Mrs Osew.
French Valentine's Quiz
The French department celebrated Valentine's day with a week quiz around the theme of love in France. All winners received a house point and an overall winner was picked at random. Well done to Marja. She won a goodie bag full of French treats.
Year 8 Happiness Week
To celebrate Happiness week, 8 JAMES and our visitors from Hong Kong ( Yin and Vicky) made mood board about what makes them happy.
Year 11 “Class of ’26” Hoodies
You may have already seen the exciting news about the Year 11 Class of ’26 Hoodies! These popular keepsakes are now available to order, but don’t miss out — orders close on 20th March. If you haven’t purchased yours yet and would like to, simply follow the link below to place your order and secure your hoodie. Our School Unique ID is: P070976YR13
Tickets are now on sale for our spectacular school production of Anything Goes, a toe-tapping, feel-good musical comedy packed with romance, comedy and dazzling dance numbers. Anything Goes is set aboard the glamorous ocean liner S.S. American as it sails from New York to England. Nightclub singer and evangelist Reno Sweeney finds herself at the heart of the action, alongside stowaway Billy Crocker, who is determined to win the heart of his true love, Hope Harcourt , despite her engagement to the wealthy Lord Evelyn Oakleigh. Add Public Enemy No. 13 Moonface Martin, his sidekick Erma, mistaken identities, tap-dancing sailors and plenty of mischief, and you have an unforgettable night of classic musical theatre fun. All performances begin at 6:30pm and finish at approximately 9:00pm. Ticket options:
- Standard tickets – £20
- Luxury Captain’s Table tickets – £40: Enjoy a VIP evening with black-tie entry, prosecco (or a non-alcoholic alternative), and nibbles served during the show. Captain’s Table seating is arranged at the front of the theatre for a prime view and a true night-out experience. Please note: Captain’s Table tickets must be purchased in groups of twos, threes and fours.
Anything Goes - Student Volunteers Needed
The set for Anything Goes is starting to take shape. This week a group of Year 7s have given up their lunch times to help paint the scenic embellishments which will make up the decorations of the set. Thank you so much to Fearne, Lucy, Charlotte, Maya and Camilla for their time and skills. It’s been fun. The production team are looking for volunteers to help with the show. We need technical and stage crew as well as anyone else who wants to be involved getting the show on the road. If anyone wants to be involved, please get in touch with Mr Hougham or any of the Music, Drama and Dance teachers and we will get you a rehearsal schedule. It will involve some afterschool rehearsals on Mondays and Wednesdays. There will be loads to do and the more the merrier so get involved!
Scavenger Hunt
We need your help to bring the 1920s/30s to life. We’re running an “Anything Goes?” Scavenger Hunt to source period-style props for our upcoming production. If you have an item that fits the bill, please bring it to Ms Bruce (clearly named). Everyone who donates an item will be acknowledged in the programme.
Items needed (1920s/30s style)
Canvas bag, bottle of gin x 2, pocket watch, FBI badge, 1 x deck of cards, passport, Wheelchair, small gong, table set for a romantic dinner, phone (old), cologne, bedcovers, tea cart, mops, buckets, cleaning cloths, life preservers, mirror (art deco), broadsword, robe, fake beard, butterfly net, lobsters, tin cups, keys, watch, scarves, top hat (collapsible). (Replica items only where appropriate.) Thank you for helping us create a world of glamour, jazz, and intrigue.
Voices of the Deep
Join us on an exhilarating journey under the sea with orchestral music, choral pieces, poetry, art and dance all performed by our wonderful Senior School students, KS2 Music groups and professional musicians. Music ranges from The Pirates of the Caribbean to Titanic to Taylor Swift! Please come along for an unforgettable evening celebrating the Creative Arts at Kent College.
Under the Sea
Join us on an exhilarating journey under the sea with orchestral music, choral pieces, poetry, art and dance all performed by our wonderful Prep School students, Senior School instrumentalists and professional musicians. Music ranges from The Pirates of the Caribbean to Titanic to Taylor Swift! Please come along for an unforgettable afternoon celebrating the Creative Arts at Kent College.
Open Morning
On Tuesday, we are excited to host our Open Morning and look forward to welcoming visitors to our school. This is a wonderful opportunity to experience life at Kent College, meet our staff and students, and discover the wide range of academic, sporting and co-curricular opportunities we offer. If you have any friends or family members who may be interested in joining the Kent College community, please do share this link with them. We would be delighted to welcome them to see our school in action.
Parent Toolbox
Prep Sign-up Links
Free Prep A homework sessions run in the library (1h 15m). Phones aren’t allowed, and students should bring a book to read once they finish their homework. Late bus sign-out is by 5:25pm; parents collecting children should come to the main office. The sign up links for 2025-26 are below:
Prep B sessions (1h) are for students staying past 5:30pm and are held in Boarding and the Dining Hall, with optional supper (extra charge). The sign up links are below:
All sessions must be booked in advance for safeguarding purposes.
Second-Hand Uniform Shop - Spring Term Opening Dates
The Second-Hand Uniform Shop will be open on the first Friday of each month (where possible) from 3:00pm to 4:15pm. The next Spring Term dates will be Friday 6th March and Friday 24th April. For those who cannot make these dates, you can contact the Second-Hand Uniform Shop at kcseniorshop@gmail.com.
Chaplain Katie's Reflections of the Week
The final song in the musical ‘You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown’ is called Happiness. Each character sings about what brings them happiness. Charlie: finding a pencil; Linus: two kinds of ice cream; Lucy: knowing a secret; Snoopy: pizza with sausage. They are all simple, everyday things that bring happiness. In the end, they all sing together: Happiness is anyone and anything at all that’s loved by you. What do you truly love? Love that doesn’t rest on the surface but is found deep in your soul. That kind of love can bring happiness that may surprise you and even change your life. For the Peanuts crew, happiness is found in the little things we might take for granted. Where can you find happiness around you this week? May God bless you with the ability to find deep happiness in the little things in life. Amen.
Lunch Menu W/C 2nd March
Have a wonderful weekend.
All photographs featured herein are the property of the school and are used in accordance with our photographic permission policy.