Mr Mossman's Reflections
Last Saturday I took my purple belt in American Kickboxing. Full disclosure, I am not very good... but I passed. Firstly, it might seem surprising that teachers have such a life outside. It might also seem strange that I would put my aging, creaking body through this – a question I asked myself when I woke up very sore on Sunday. But here in fact lies the reason. I may not be very good, and quite old, but I keep trying. For me this is the measure of real strength – our value for this week. Strength comes in various forms: it could be raw physical power; it could be in intellect or talent; and most importantly it can be in character and resilience in the face of challenge. Education often asks us to step outside of our comfort zone. For students it may persevering with a subject that is difficult, engaging with the problem and trying again when things go wrong. The students who are often the most successful are those who are willing to redo an exercise or essay, taking on board the improvements suggested by their teacher. Such resilience is, of course, a key feature of our ASPIRE values and regular grading. Teachers too need to show strength – and that does not mean stern, old school strictness. For teachers, it might be the confidence to let students take the lead in their learning or maybe trying an activity that is a bit more creative and different from their normal approach. In essence, it means teachers need to keep learning. I was lucky to see this in action this week, when our teachers met to discuss research projects that they are individually developing. The ideas were impressive, original, and absolutely to the benefit of our Kent College students. Strength without doubt also comes from our Kent College community. So many of our parents engage in the academic success of their child, working closely with us to optimise success. I am sure that quite a few of our Year 11 parents could sit GCSEs alongside their children this summer. Students will also, of course, find support and strength in their teachers and friends. This was so evident last week in the manner in which we welcomed our 30 visitors from Hong Kong. Our confident students could not have made them feel more welcomed and involved. To conclude, strength should be looked at from multiple angles. It can be found in how hard a fifty-plus man can hit a punch bag, but it is most valuable in the small moments, the moments when tiny improvements are made and friendships and shared purpose are created.
60 Seconds with Mrs Cooper, Head of English
Tell us a bit about yourself...
As a 'third-culture kid,' I grew up navigating different worlds, living in Europe and Southeast Asia. My experience as a young person motivated me to pursue international opportunities and after teaching at The Malling School and St Olave’s Grammar School in Kent as well as Harris City Technology College in South East London, I left the UK and travelled extensively with my family, working at British International schools in Malaysia, Portugal, and France, before joining KC in September as Head of English.
What do you enjoy most about teaching?
My career has given me experience in almost every facet of school life from Head of English and Associate Vice Principal to leading school productions. I am particularly interested in neurodiversity and the power of positive psychology in the classroom. I draw a lot of inspiration from the "Growth Mindset" work of Carol Dweck and the "Grit" research of Angela Duckworth. To me, the "magic" of teaching happens when we are all "in the flow"—those moments when students are so engaged in collaborating and creating that the four walls of the classroom seem to disappear. Very few professions allow for the level of creativity that education does, and I am committed to putting that sense of dynamic, purposeful fun into every lesson. On a personal level, my favourite activities involve some sort of sport, either running, tennis or a Zumba class, and the best evening out is a comedy club or trip to the theatre!
What top advice would you give to students studying your subject?
Success isn’t just about grades; it’s about the mindset we bring to the challenge.
- View Setbacks as Data: As Maya Angelou said, "You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated." A defeat is just information on how to improve for the next time.
- Own Your Narrative: Abraham Lincoln noted that "The best way to predict your future is to create it." Use your time at KC to build the person you want to become.
- Identify Your "Superpowers": Everyone has a different learning style. Whether you are a creative storyteller or a logical analyst, lean into your natural strengths while building your resilience in other areas.
- Collaboration is Key: Real-world success comes from how well you communicate your ideas and support those around you.
What are the department highlights and upcoming events?
We have a busy calendar designed to encourage students to collaborate and create:
- Year 7: Finding their voices in Poetry by Heart, a national competition focusing on reciting and performing poetry.
- Year 8: Diving into the Page Turners reading challenges, a competition encouraging students to read novels and produce creative responses.
- Year 9: Exploring Identity and Diversity through our annual Speech Competition.
- Plus: Upcoming author visits, World Book Day, A Level theatre trip to see Othello, and the launch of our new Creative Writing Club.
Watch this space, there is much more to come!
The Big Dig
On Saturday, we were delighted to welcome our prospective Year 7 students for an exciting morning of The Big Dig. The event was inspired by a remarkable and moving part of our school’s history. On 15th September 1940, during the Battle of Britain, a Hurricane aircraft was shot down over what is now the Confidence Course in the grounds of Kent College. The young RAF pilot, Sergeant Leslie Pidd, tragically lost his life. The crash site has been excavated several times over the years, and a number of artefacts have been recovered. Some of these items were incorporated into our activities, allowing students to connect directly with this powerful moment in history. Throughout the morning, students used metal detectors in the sandpit, took part in code-breaking challenges, and built electrical circuits, all inspired by the events of 1940. It was wonderful to see such enthusiasm, teamwork and curiosity on display as they quite literally dug into the past. We thoroughly enjoyed welcoming our future Year 7 students and look forward to seeing them again soon.
Open Morning
On Tuesday, the sun was shining as we welcomed families to our Open Morning. Visitors were full of praise for our beautiful site and excellent facilities. Our Year 9 student guides were particularly impressive, and the lessons on show throughout the morning received wonderful feedback.
Our next Open Day will take place on Thursday 30th April. If you know anyone who may be interested in discovering more about Kent College, please do share the link below and encourage them to book a place.
Year 7 Art
Year 7s have been studying landscape and sculpture artist Andy Goldsworthy, focusing on the theme of natural forms. Following in his footsteps, this week all the students went around the KC site to find and collect natural materials such as stones, leaves, and sticks. Using these materials, they created 2D patterns / forms which mirror Andy's work. Brilliant work and enjoyed by everyone!
Year 8 Art
This term the Year 8 are studying the surrealist movement, and focusing on two artists; Rene Magritte and Giorgio de Chirico. Throughout the term they have learnt about what surrealism is, vanishing points, and perspective. From this, each student has created their own collage paintings with surrealism in mind, designing their artwork to be dreamlike or eerie. It's been great to see each student tap into their imagination and work on their critical thinking skills.
Year 10 Textiles Workshop
On Monday, our Year 10 students enjoyed a day 'off timetable' as they took part in a special costume workshop for the upcoming production of Anything Goes. During the day, students learned how to make sailor collars and skirts that will feature in the show.
Working together, they created patterns, practised edging techniques, and began constructing pieces that will become part of the final costumes. It was a fantastic opportunity for students to enhance their practical sewing skills while contributing creatively to the school production.
The workshop was a great success, and we look forward to seeing their hard work on stage during the production of Anything Goes.
Careers Week
On Wednesday we ran a whole day of assemblies and talks to celebrate National Careers Week. We had a fantastic response to the request for parent speakers and were so fortunate to be able to showcase such a great range of professions and careers, in medicine, law, business, the charity sector and even jewellery and antiques valuing. It was wonderful to see our students so engaged with our speakers. Such a great event to bring our students and parents together to learn from each other.
Year 9 Global Citizenship Community Engagement Project
On Thursday, a group of Year 9 students visited Aspens in Pembury for their Community Engagement Project. They helped the staff at the animal centre take care of donkeys, ferrets, and rabbits. The animals are free for anyone to visit but especially for the Aspens community. They will complete their project with a reflection on what they accomplished and how their work will help the people at Aspens.
Our Whole School Production
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: Special Price for Captain’s Tables tickets on Thursday night only of £32 per ticket. AND if you currently have a ticket for Thursday night, you can upgrade to one of the Captain’s Tables for £12. The Captain’s Table tickets include 2 x glasses of Prosecco and canapes during the show and Fast Track to the Bar at the interval.
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.
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.
Chaplain Katie's Reflections of the Week
This morning, the DofE Silver students left school at 8:00am to start their practice expedition weekend: three days and two nights in the wilderness of Ashdown Forest. As they were getting ready to head out, one of the groups started to sing, "Be Bold! Be Strong! For the Lord your God is with you!" Not only did it warm my heart, but it made me think about the theme this week: Strength. I told them that they are the epitome of strength by getting out of their comfort zones and trying something difficult. That strength can come from the Lord, as the song says, but also from the support systems they have on these adventures. From their friends hiking beside them, to Miss Wilson, Head of DofE, to the wilderness guides, all the way to their parents to encourage them along this journey. We are stronger when we are together! May God bless you with strength to face the trials ahead, Amen.
Lunch Menu W/C 9th March
Have a wonderful weekend.
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