Matilda the Musical Jr.
Kent College Pembury was buzzing with excitement as students from Years 5 – 10 lit up the stage in three fantastic performances of Matilda the Musical Jr this week. From powerful vocals and expressive acting to slick choreography and joyful ensemble work, the production was a true celebration of student talent and teamwork. The cast and crew poured their heart and soul into every moment, bringing Roald Dahl’s beloved story to life with energy, humour, and imagination.
This was my first major role, and it has truly been one of the most incredible experiences of my life. Through this show, I’ve made so many amazing new friends and gained a lot more confidence in connecting with others. The production itself was phenomenal, and I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make it the best it could possibly be. (Emelia, Year 9, playing Matilda, Green Cast)
Playing Matilda was such an honour and I wish I could redo it all again. Everyone in the show was amazing and they should all be so proud of themselves. I had endless fun, and can’t wait for the productions in 2026! (Annie, Year 8, playing Matilda, Blue Cast)
A huge well done to all the students and staff involved in creating such a memorable and magical show! You can view the full programme and enjoy more photos from the production by clicking the link below.
National Boarding Week
Kent College joined schools across the country in celebrating National Boarding Week 2025, highlighting the joy, friendship, and community spirit of boarding life. Our boarders enjoyed a packed week of fun and wellbeing-focused activities, including making homemade fudge, visiting the beautiful local lavender fields, camping out in the garden under the stars, and taking part in a calming soundbath meditation session. It was a wonderful chance to relax, connect, and celebrate everything that makes boarding at KC so special. A heartfelt thank you to our boarding staff for creating such an unforgettable week!
Year 7 trip to The Tower of London
Year 7 braved the soaring temperatures last 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.
Scholars' Project Day
AIMS students took part in a thought-provoking Project Day on Thursday, exploring Global Citizenship through the lens of UN Sustainable Development Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. The day began with an inspiring keynote speech by Jonathan Allen CMG, Director General of Defence and Intelligence at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. Mr Allen shared insights into the importance of diplomacy, UK defence strategy, and what individuals can do to strengthen democracy.
Students from Lower Sixth and Year 9 interviewed Mr Allen in a lively Q&A, gaining valuable experience in journalistic interviewing. The day concluded with students presenting TED-style talks on key issues, including threats to democracy, the role of social media in politics, and whether voting should be compulsory.
A huge thank you to Mr Allen for his time and inspiration — it was a powerful and enriching day for all involved.
The day was great. Mr Allen gave very useful insights into the mechanisms used in international negotiations. Kateryna (Lower Sixth)
Today's experience has let us work with people we have not worked with before. It allowed us to utilise our presentation skills which is good preparation for our English speeches! Diya (Year 10)
I really loved the talk and learning about politics as it's something I'm interested in! Salome (Year 8)
Danes Clothing Swap
Danes House recently hosted a fantastic Clothes Swap in support of the charity All We Can, combining sustainability with community spirit. Students were encouraged to donate pre-loved clothing items, which were then beautifully displayed and made available for others to "re-love." Year 9 were crowned the winning year group, bringing in the most donations and earning first access to the swap. Everyone who contributed was given the opportunity to choose new items, promoting both mindful fashion and charitable giving.
A big thank you to all who donated and helped make the event such a success!
Year 11 Prom
Following the completion of their GCSE exams last week, Year 11 came together for a well-deserved evening of celebration at their prom, held in the school theatre. The venue was beautifully transformed for the occasion, and students arrived looking elegant and full of excitement.
The evening was filled with music, dancing, laughter, and plenty of fun in the photo booth — marking the end of a busy term and the start of a well-earned break. A huge well done to Year 11 for all their hard work this year, and we wish them a restful and joyful summer — you’ve earned it!
KC Gymnastics Academy
We’re thrilled to celebrate the outstanding achievements of Jendayi (left) and Jessica (right) (both Year 7), and Cyra (middle) (Year 6), in the recent Southeast Regional Intermediates Floor & Vault Championships at Guildford. Jendayi was crowned South East Champion, taking 1st overall, and earned bronze medals for both floor and vault with 3rd highest scores. Jessica also performed brilliantly, finishing 6th overall and securing the 3rd highest vault. A huge congratulations as well to Cyra, who placed 4th overall with an impressive performance in her category.
We’re incredibly proud of our athletes and loved watching them shine throughout the event!
Young Fashion Designer Awards
We’re excited to have three finalists from Kent College Pembury competing in this year’s Young Fashion Designer Awards, which are being hosted right here at Kent College on Saturday: Emily (Year 8), Sophia (Year 10), and Ashley (Lower Sixth). We wish them all the best as they present their creative designs.
The finalists will be judged by three industry experts:
- Abigail Willis, founder of sustainable fabric brand Willis Bloom and advocate for slow, mindful fashion.
- Laura Salter, specialist in textile print and material innovation at Rolls-Royce Bespoke.
- Jemima Gunston, sustainable textile designer and Central Saint Martins graduate focused on storytelling through fabric.
We’re proud of our finalists and look forward to seeing their talent shine!
Save the Date
Senior Sports Day and Sports Awards - Thursday 10th July 2025
We’re excited to celebrate a highlight of the school calendar on Thursday 10th July with our Senior Sports Day in the morning. Students from Years 7–10 and the Lower Sixth will compete in a festival-style day of friendly House competition, with music, food, and a picnic atmosphere. Parents are warmly invited to join us for the morning and stay for a bring-your-own picnic lunch after the final events.
In the evening, we’ll come together for the Sports Awards Evening — a special celebration of this year’s sporting achievements, featuring drinks, dinner, and the presentation of awards. Full details can be found on the poster below — we hope to see you there!
Speech Day Friday 11th July 2025
We are pleased to announce that the Senior School Annual Speech Day will take place on Friday 11th July 2025. This much-anticipated event is a celebration of our students’ achievements and a joyful close to the academic year. Families will be invited to join us in the Old Sports Hall for the ceremony, followed by canapés and drinks on the lawn. Click on the link below to reserve your seats.
Join the KCPA!
Please find attached a flyer from the Kent College Parents’ Association (KCPA), which works closely with parents, teachers, and staff in the Senior School to support events and initiatives that benefit our students.
As the current leadership team will be stepping down at the end of May, they are seeking a new team, including a Chair, Co-Chairs, and Treasurer, to continue this important connection between parents and the school. They also welcome general volunteers to assist with events and activities.
Please note: this doesn't have to be a big commitment; any help or time you can give, would be much appreciated.
The Wellbeing Hub
Have a wonderful weekend!
All photographs featured herein are the property of the school and are used in accordance with our photographic permission policy.