Maidstone Grammar School Newsletter
From the Headteacher
Welcome to the summer edition of MGS News. As another academic year ends, I am once again struck by how quickly time passes in school life. It has been a year full of energy, achievement, change, and challenge - and as ever, one filled with pride in the efforts of our students and staff.
A major milestone this term was the introduction of digital devices for all Year 7 students - a key step in our long-term vision to embed technology into daily teaching and learning. Preparing for this shift took time and care, from infrastructure improvements to staff training, and while we are still in the early
stages, the benefits are already clear. Students are using tools like Microsoft Teams and OneNote to enhance their learning, and this is just the beginning. Education is constantly evolving, but the current pace of change is striking. From calculators in the 1970s to BBC computers in the 1980s, to the rapid shift to digital platforms during the pandemic, we are now seeing the rise of AI and the likelihood of digital public exams. A colleague recently shared a quote that stuck with me: “If you’re not driving the steamroller, you’re part of the road.” At MGS, we are determined to lead, preparing students for the world they will inherit.
Change has also come to our physical environment. Since Easter, wehave transformed the old gym into a modern fitness suite, now supporting strength and conditioning in PE and beyond. It is already proving popular and will play a vital role in promoting health and well-being. We have also opened our new Student Support Centre - a long-held ambition now realised. Located opposite the War Memorial Library, this bright, calm hub brings together student services in one welcoming space. Thanks to generous support from the William and Edith Oldham Trust, the Centre completes the transformation of our 1960s library block, which now also includes a revitalised library and new Sixth Form study areas.
As the year closes, we bid farewell to several valued colleagues. Mr Sharp, who joined us this year in D&T, leaves for a new role with the Rochester Bridge Trust. Mr Knight returned to support the
English Department and now resumes his retirement. From our support staff, we thank Mrs Martin, Mrs Bradshaw, and Mrs Handley, who have all played crucial roles in the smooth running of the school. After 19 years in the Bursary, Mrs Handley’s meticulous financial work has been invaluable.
Two long-serving members of staff retire this summer. Mrs Van Mol leaves after 20 years at MGS and 49 years in education, having taught across subjects, mentored countless students, and led numerous trips. Her impact has been immense, and she will be greatly missed. Mr Young, our Head of Computing and E-Learning Manager, retires after 30 years. He has built one of the most respected computing departments in the region, inspiring generations of students. Fittingly, the department will now be led by an Old Maidstonian he once taught. To all our departing colleagues - thank you. You leave with our gratitude and best wishes.
To parents and carers - thank you for your ongoing support. Your partnership with the school is deeply valued and truly makes a difference.
To my colleagues - thank you for your dedication and professionalism. This year has not been without challenges, but your resilience and care have been constant.
And to our students - thank you. Your energy, kindness, and commitment are what make MGS such a special place. Keep striving, learning, and honouring the values that define this community. I hope
you will look back on your time here with pride.
Wishing you all a restful, safe, and happy summer.
Mr Tomkins
DofE Bronze DofE Silver
Congratulations to all the participants who completed their assessed Bronze DofE Expedition across a weekend earlier this term. Despite the heavy rain on the Saturday night, they all reported having had an enjoyable experience.
Congratulations to our Silver Duke of Edinburgh participants who successfully completed their assessed expedition in the New Forest recently. Their enthusiasm and conduct were excellent, and the long, warm evenings were enjoyed by all.
Thank you, boys, for embracing this challenge - and well done on completing the expedition! Thank you also to the staff who prepared the boys and helped facilitate the trip.
DofE Gold
Congratulations to Merrick S (Year 13 Corpus House) who attended a ceremony at Buckingham Palace to collect his Gold Duke of Edinburgh award in May. Many congratulations to him on what was a very proud day for him, his family and the school.
A Message from the School Captain
By Alan B, Year 12, Corpus Christi House
As another year ends, it gives the opportunity for the school captain to share some words about what the last year has held for him. Isaac, being the eloquent wordsmith that he is, has thoroughly prepared me for moments like this. So here are my thoughts.
I sit here writing this article just after completing my final UCAS exam, and I am now patiently awaiting my results that will come out shortly. This past week has felt like the culmination of the entire academic year, where all the hard work and hours that are stored in the pen finally get put to paper. Camaraderie and self-discipline are what have really pushed me through this period. My favourite aspect would have been the “who gets to the office earlier” competition that I had with previous vice-captain Noah. Getting into school at half 7, only to see him there before me, was quite a deflating feeling – so I must thank him for that.
The other main event of the year was the school captain application process, which — believe it or not — I came out of the other side quite content. Being able to compete with such a gifted pool of applicants was an absolute honour, and Kiera beside me has been incredible to work with since February. Holding the role as school captain has been something that I have thoroughly enjoyed over the last few months. The thrill of public speaking, the amazing team of prefects that Kiera and I lead, and obviously the biscuits and banana bread in “Blanters” with Mr Tomkins have been among my favourite elements.
Looking ahead, the next year will not lighten up: my attention now shifts to my university applications, as I look to study engineering. The summer will be a busy period, obsessing over my personal statement, and watching endless YouTube videos on interview prep and ESAT exam technique. However, I am definitely looking forward to this next challenge in my life. The period until Christmas is filled with events, open evenings, firework nights, the lot. Hence, more speaking, more leading, and more Blanters.
Although all the success might seem to be the reason why I have enjoyed this year, it is the people around MGS that have made this year — along with every other year — special. The privilege of having my role has made me see and appreciate the amount of work that goes into everything. I would like to thank the staff and thank all my peers around me for making this year memorable, and I am in full confidence that the next will be just as fruitful.
Gliding
On Saturday 28 June, several of our RAF Cadets, accompanied by Lt (RN) Pinn, visited RAF Kenley for a day of flight experience and glider operations.
Despite the heat, the Cadets took part in flight and parachute training before heading to the main airfield, where they supported glider launches as ground crew. Later, they had the opportunity to take to the skies themselves. Those with prior experience were even able to take the controls during flight.
It was a hot but rewarding day of gliding and hands-on learning for our RAF Cadets.
Year 6 Induction
We were pleased to welcome our soon-to-be Maidstonians from Year 6 to their Year 7 Induction Day with us in early July.
They took part in a carousel of activities and team building opportunities, and joined the whole school for one of our assemblies in the Quad. We hope they enjoy their final weeks at primary school, have a great summer, and we look forward to welcoming them in September as our 477th cohort.
U18 1st XI Kent Cup Winners
Congratulations to our U18 1st XI on winning the Kent Cup back in April against The Judd School.
The team lifted the U19 White Cup after an excellent final in Herne Bay. A massive well done to the team and Mr Hughes on not only a great result but also an outstanding season!
U15 XI District Cup Winners
Congratulations to our U15 XI who won the District Cup final in May at the Gallagher Stadium, defeating the School of Science & Technology (SST) 4-0.
A massive well done to the team and thank you to the staff for their training and support.
U13 Basketball Kent Cup Champions
Congratulations to our U13 basketball team who are Kent Cup Champions following their win in April.
A massive well done to the team, Mr Hewson and Mr Ashenfelter.
The Globe
“The day is hot, the Capels are abroad…” A scorching trip to the Globe Theatre with some of Year 9 to watch Romeo and Juliet in June. Students enjoyed experiencing Shakespeare’s work come to life after studying a full Shakespeare play for the past two terms.
Next Production
Our Performing Arts Department never rests on its laurels and is always working towards new and exciting performances for our community to enjoy and be part of. An information event for those wishing to contribute to next year’s production took place this term with. Some roles have been assigned to on stage and behind the scenes.
Summer Showcase
Our Performing Arts Department’s Summer Showcase took place in May in the Big Hall. The event will featured extracts from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Newsies which was directed by Leo S (Year 12, College House).
VE 80
Our CCF marked the 80th anniversary of VE Day yesterday with this photo of their ‘VE 80’ field formation. #VE80
Year 6 Welcome Evening
In early April, we were delighted to welcome our incoming Year 7 students (and soon-to-be Maidstonians) and their families to the school for our Year 6 Welcome Evening. During the event, they learned about - and experienced - some of the many traditions that have developed over our long history. A highlight was our senior prefect team singing a rendition of our school song, Gaudeamus, in Latin.
At the end of the evening, another tradition took place: the ceremonial “changing of the guard” from the outgoing school captain, vice-captain, and prefect team to the new leadership. This tradition includes speeches from the outgoing team and the customary ringing of the school bell in Reception.
Following the ringing of the bell by outgoing school captain Isaac M (Year 13, Corpus Christi House) and school vice-captain Noah C-C (Year 13, Barton House), incoming school captain Alan B (Year 12, Corpus Christi House) and school vice-captain Kiera C (Year 12, College House) officially began their term of leadership.
Thank you to Isaac, Noah, and the rest of the Year 13 prefect team for their dedicated service and leadership. We wish Alan, Kiera, and their team the very best in their roles for the coming year.
Our New Gym
In April, we’re were excited to announce the completion of our latest construction project: the transformation of our gym into a brand-new fitness suite. Over the Easter break, the space was fitted with state-of-the-art equipment, enhancing our PE and Sport provision.
Already, our PE team has begun implementing a strength and conditioning programme, making full use of the new facilities. The suite has also become a popular destination for senior students and staff, who are accessing it before and after school hours.
There are a few final pieces of equipment yet to be installed. Once everything is in place, we’ll share more photos to showcase the completed space.
Girls’ Netball
Thank you to our senior girls’ netball team, who are not only making the school proud but also doing a great job representing female sport at MGS. Well done to the team on their recent tournaments at Gravesend Grammar, and thank you to Miss Dimmick and Mrs Coveney for their training and support.
Powerlifting Success
Congratulations to Owen V (Year 13, Barton House), who competed at the British Powerlifting National Championships in Wolverhampton in April.
He won gold in the deadlift, placing him first in the UK, and came third overall in the combined squat, bench, and deadlift total. As a result, Owen has been nominated to represent GB at the 2025 European Championships in Lithuania and the World Championships in Costa Rica.
A massive well done Owen!
MGS Golf
Our U16 Golf team played their first fixture of the season in early May against Glyn School, with a thrilling finish on the 18th seeing Glyn victorious. Thank you to our opposition for their warm hospitality.
Further Dance Success
A massive well done to Ryan P (Year 8, Tonbridge House), who continues to achieve great success in dance. Most recently, he successfully auditioned for a place with the South East Associates at Tap Attack – one of the world’s most renowned tap dance specialists. Well done Ryan!
Cricket
June has featured some excellent cricket across our squads and provided great opportunities for the boys. Earlier in the month, our 1st XI hosted the MCC at The Mote. It was an excellent day of cricket, with our boys learning a lot from playing a longer format against experienced cricketers. A particular well done to Will B (Year 11, Corpus Christi House) for an excellent fifty.
CCF RN
Our Royal Navy Section of the CCF have been spending afternoon’s recently enhancing their pioneering skills. They constructed tripods and rigged a line system designed to transport vital goods and provisions - just as sailors might need in a real life scenario.
CCCU
Our Year 12 and 10 PE students had an excellent day at Canterbury Christ Church University in early May, exploring both course content and possible career opportunities.
Hollywood
Over the Easter holidays, our Film and Media Department went on an exciting trip to Hollywood. Not only did they enjoy the glorious California sunshine, but they also experienced the best of Los Angeles - from visiting film studios and cinemas to spotting celebrities and sampling American cuisine.
We’ve enjoyed hearing the many stories from the trip (including sightings of both major and minor celebrities), and we extend a big thank you to Mr Goddard for organising and leading the trip, as well as to the staff who generously gave up part of their Easter break to support it.
There’s already a great deal of interest among students eager to join the next Hollywood trip, planned for 2027.
Leavers 2025
Leavers’ Day took place in May. Many of our Year 13 students wore the MGS uniform, signed each other’s shirts, and said goodbye to one another, to staff, and to the school. The event culminated in their Leavers’ Assembly, where they sang the school song, Gaudeamus, one last time as Maidstonians.
Prior to Leavers’ Day, Year 13 had their Leavers’ photograph taken and their hoddies distributed.
In early July, Year 13 then celebrated the end of their MGS journey at their Prom at Leeds Castle. It was great to hear them speak so positively about their time at the school and their recent exam experience.
Speeches, prize giving, and quizzes took place between a fantastic three course meal, with plenty of laughter, singing, and some questionable dance moves (including from staff!).
A big thank you to the Prom Committee for organising and running such a successful event, and to Leeds Castle for hosting us.
We look forward to seeing Year 13 again on A Level Results Day on the 14th August, and hope they all have a wonderful summer in the meantime.
Extended Learning Week
What a week it was! The week beginning 7th July, we collapsed our normal timetable for our annual Extended Learning Week (ELW) for Years 7 to 9, while Years 10 and 12 went on work experience. ELW is a unique feature of our curriculum and, for many, their favourite week of the year. During ELW, we provide learning and enrichment experiences that students wouldn’t normally have through the formal curriculum - including residentials and trips. These have included visits to France, Spain, and Germany, and our CCF contingents have travelled to different corners of the UK.
Some of the week’s popular activities included Basketball Camp, Chess, Debating, DT Soap Box (a high-energy, Grand Prixstyle race where teams put the soapboxes they’ve built all week to the test), Golf Academy at Tudor Park Golf Club in Bearsted, Harry Potter Workshop (at the Harry Potter Studios, of course), MGS Bake Off, Rowing, Special Effects Makeup, Water Sports on St Andrews Lakes (very popular!), School of Rock, Wrestling and much more.
Berlin Trip
One of our Extended Learning Week trips was led by the Business and German Departments, who had taken students studying these subjects to Berlin. The Business students toured the BMW Motorbike Factory, where they saw the entire production and manufacturing process - from collecting components, to building the engines, to testing a finished bike before it is packaged and sent out to customers. Students have also visited Checkpoint Charlie, the remnants of the Berlin Wall, the Olympic Stadium, the Reichstag, and the Brandenburg Gate.
Politics and Power
Our Politics and Power Extended Learning Week activity run by some of our History staff asked students the question to what extend has the British state exercised its power – at home and overseas? The students took part in a number of trips to help find answers including to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, where they visited the Mary Rose Museum (centred on the wreck of Henry VIII’s warship that was raised from the Solent in 1982) and toured HMS Victory (Admiral Nelson’s flagship at Trafalgar).
Year 11
By Mark T, Year 10, Corpus Christi House
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Year 11’s last exam as a year group took place in late June and, afterwards, the year group came together, signed each other’s shirts, and said their goodbyes to each other and staff. Well done to all of Year 11, who have been exemplary in their conduct during this exam period. We enjoyed welcoming them, along with many Year 11s from other schools, for their Sixth Form Induction Days.
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We look forward to seeing Year 11 again on GCSE Results Day in August, and hope they all have an enjoyable summer in the meantime.
Geography Field Trip
Our Year 10 geography students had a fantastic couple of days at the start of Term 6, heading to Stratford, London for their Paper 3 fieldwork investigation! They explored urban regeneration firsthand, collecting data and applying what they’ve learned in the classroom to the real world. It was a valuable experience, and the students thoroughly enjoyed developing new skills outside the classroom!
Inter-house Netball
Founders’ Day
On the morning of Monday 14 July, the school community gathered at All Saints Church in Maidstone for our annual Founders’ Day service. During the event, we celebrated and reflected on the 476 years since the school’s official founding, as well as the centuries of history that preceded it – including time spent at the College of All Saints site.
Thank you to Rev. Dickinson for leading the service, and to Gabriel O (Year 9, Barton) and School
Captain Alan B (Year 12, Corpus Christi) for sharing their thoughtful reflections with the school community.
Summer Exhibition
Our Summer Exhibition opened in June and ran for a week, showcasing work from all our senior art students in Years 11 to 13. Thank you to everyone who attended the opening, and congratulations to the prize winners announced at the event: Dylan R (Year 11, Tonbridge House) – Year 11 Art Prize; Thomas D (Year 12, Tonbridge House) – Year 12 Art Prize; Milan G (Year 13, Corpus Christi House) – Year 13 Art Prize; and Jack S (Year 13, Tonbridge House) –Overall Art Prize.
Careers Update
By Mrs S Acaster, Careers and Enterprise Manager
A quick note from the Careers Team to reflect on the events from the past two terms and highlight the events coming up at the start of the next academic year.
Work-related Learning is an important focus of these two terms.
Year 12 University presentations: May-June
• Part of our 6th Form Core Programme includes informing students about Higher Education opportunities. This term we have had representatives from the University of Nottingham, University of Sheffield, University of East Anglia and University of Surrey delivering presentations to our students on the following topics: Introduction to Higher Education; Choosing Universities & Courses; The UCAS Application Process, Writing Personal Statements, Studying Abroad and Placement Year Opportunities. We also had a former MGS student talking about his own experience of degree apprenticeships.
Year 12 UCAS Applications: June
• The UCAS University Application process goes live in the summer term. All our Year 12 students, who are thinking about applying to university, register on UCAS and start the process of completing their university application forms, ready to submit from September onwards.
Year 9 Business Challenge: 30th June- 2nd July
• All our Year 9 students took part in a 2 ½ Business Challenge activity, working with local business to help them solve real life business issues, which culminated in them pitching innovative ideas and solutions to their business partners. They also attended Employability Skills workshops on: Personality Profiling, Teamwork, Presentations and Market Research
Year 8 Work Shadowing Day: 3rd July
• Our Year 8 students undertake a one-day work shadowing placement, arranged by parents/ guardians, with a company of their choice. This provides a valuable introduction to the world of work
Year 10 & 12 Work Experience Week: 7th-11th July
• Our Year 10 and 12 students undertake a one-week work experience placement, arranged by themselves, with a company of their choice. This provides a valuable opportunity to gain an insight into a career area they may be considering and helps support future university and employment applications.
Year 10 Morrisby Profiling: 15th-18th July
• All our Year 10 students are offered the opportunity of undertaking Morrisby Profiling: a series of psychometric assessments designed to identify an individual’s skills and abilities and career areas to which they may be suited.
Year 12 individual Careers Meetings
• Throughout these two terms all our Year 12 students are scheduled individual appointments with the Careers Team to get impartial information, advice and guidance about their Post-18 Options and future career and study plans
In Terms 1 & 2 of the new academic year the following activities will be taking place:
• Year 11 Individual Careers Meetings: September-January
• Year 12 Welcome/Information Evening: 10th September
• Year 10-13 Higher Education Fair: 17th September
• Year 11 Information Evening: 27th October
• Year 11 Sixth Form Options Afternoon: 28th October
• Year 11 Post-16 Open Evening: 27th November
• Year 8 Careers Days: 3rd-4th December
• Year 8 Work Shadowing Day: 8th December
Year 9 Business Challenge
By Mrs S Acaster, Careers and Enterprise Manager
30th June-2nd July
This term, all our Year 9 students took part in our annual Business Challenge, working with local businesses to help solve real life business issues. The challenge culminated in students pitching innovative ideas and solutions to their business partners.
We extend our thanks to the local businesses who partnered with our students: Maidstone Rotary Club, Maidstone Leisure Centre, Town Rangers FC, Firebird Youths, Fusion Maidstone, and Electric Avenue Ltd. We are also grateful to Alison Temple from Firebird Training and her team of business facilitators for running the event.
Congratulations to the winners of the challenge: Teddy S, Niven M, Arthur W, and Jaiden S, all from Year 9 Barton House, who worked with Maidstone Rotary Club to develop ideas for a new building that will serve as their joint headquarters and provide facilities for community use.
Well done to all!
Sport Update
By Mr Eldridge, PE Technician
Summer Term Highlights:
Cricket
• 1stXI Medway 100 Ball Champions
• 1stXI Kent League 2 Finalists
• U15 Kent Plate Semi-Finalists
• U13 Kent Cup Semi- Finalists
• U12 Kent Plate Finalists
Athletics
• U12 District Champions
• U13 District Champions
• U14 District Champions
• U15 District Champions
• U13 Regional Qualifiers
Golf
• Golf fixtures run at U14 and U16 level
Tennis
• U13 and U15 Kent Qualifiers
Below is a table of our fixture results from this academic year:
Sports Day
On Wednesday 16 July, our Sports Day took place, with all year groups actively involved in a wide range of events. The day saw nine records broken and the closest overall result in many years. By the end, Corpus Christi House emerged as winners, with College House just 8 points behind in second place!
Thank you to the many parents and carers who came to cheer on the students, and to all the staff who supported the event. Well done to every student who gave it their all, and congratulations to the prize-winners in each event.
• A huge thank you goes to Mr Saunders and the PE Department for planning and delivering such a fantastic day.
Musings from the Penthouse #30
By Icarus
Summer days are here again and as I write we are currently enjoying a spell of weather that has had higher temperatures and less rainfall than usual. No doubt we will soon be experiencing a hose-pipe ban, just as I have bought a new hose-reel cart to replace my previous one which is decades old. Arghh, well, I will just have to sit it out in my deck-chair for a month or two.
In my last ‘Musings’ I mentioned that I had, over the last 29 editions, sidelined the C.C.F. and the Scout troop at the school. So, in order to partly attempt to right that wrong, I will try and route some of my thoughts over to the C.C.F. with the help of Mrs. Diana Caley’s booklet published in 1981. Mrs. Caley starts off her history with the words “The very first rumblings, of what was to become Maidstone Grammar School Combined Cadet Force, began as early as 1897. The Rev. H.A. Watson, the headmaster, had the idea but it didn’t get much support. In fact there were only two volunteers. However, it was not to be kept down. Only two years later we find the whole school involved in Field and Physical Drill during the ‘interval’ three days a week, and the following year, 1900, a Rifle Club had started.” The school listed 74 boys on the register with another 12 in the Preparatory School at that time.
School life would have been very regimental during Victorian years with strict discipline, but it took a change of headmaster, leaving Herbert Watson, who abandoned the school during the typhoid epidemic in Maidstone, taking with him to Great Yarmouth two members of staff and a number of the fee-paying boarders, on to perhaps one of the most progressive headmasters in the school’s life, the Reverend Charles Duffield (central in Camp photo below). The formation of the Corps was published in The London Gazette in February 1906, as –
“Cadet Corps (Maidstone Grammar School) attached to the 1st Volunteer Battalion, The Queen’s Own (Royal West Kent) Regiment; Acting Chaplain, The Reverend Charles George Duffield, M.A., Eastern Command. Maidstone Companies, Royal Army Medical Corps (Volunteer), to be Captain and to command. Dated 25th January, 1906.”
…a lot of words for such as small band with just 60 names on the role. However, the War Office issued 12 service rifles and 44 carbines for drill, which was carried out twice weekly. Once again as it had done so many times in the past and would continue to do, the Old Maidstonian Society, along with other friends of the school, raised £60 (approx. £7,000.00 in today’s purchasing value) for other equipment.
One of the young members contributed to The Maidstonian under a heading of ‘The First Parade’, “Parade in uniform!” “At last!” The long awaited day has come, but what difficulties are put before our cadets by that order, “Parade in uniform”.” He, being the son of a upper-class father, then went on to describe some of those difficulties – given some ‘putties’ which he worked out fitted somewhere on his legs, some bandages which he had no idea how to fit, ended up with him looking like a Grecian statue. When he came put on his tunic he called for help from his sisters and servants, who were also female, which resulted in comments such as “Aren’t those bandages uncomfortable?”. “Your–er- knickers are rather tight!” and so forth. Finally, in despair, he calls his mother, who with the sense of most mothers finally gets him into some form of order. By correcting which side of his head to have the ‘frog’ of his headgear, he resembles something of a soldier.
1907 saw the formation of the School’s Bugle Band. Funds were raised to purchase drums, bugles and a bass drum (which survives in the Archives today, as does the apron for the ‘big drum’. The apron was/is the skin of a panther shot by an old boy, Lieut. J. L. Eyre, in India, upon which a silver plate was added to its forehead relating to the presentation.) The skin was presented by Lieut. Eyre’s father as sadly Lieut. Eyre drowned a few months later. This is one case where, regardless of
how feelings are today, the archive is an historical store of MGS’s history, which must be preserved. Needless to say, the skin is seldom put on show today.
Army Camp in those early days would shock the cadets and students of today, I should imagine.
The 1907 Summer Camp at Worthing, in tents, had the following routine –
5:00 Reveille
6:00 Parade (in full kit)
6:30 Breakfast
2:00 Lunch – there was no transport between training area and camp.
(Mrs. Caley does not mention other times, but she does say that when Last Post had sounded you could bed down very comfortably on a straw palliasse.) By 1931 it is recorded that each palliasse should have at least one wisp of straw! One does wonder what else lurked in that bedding!
In 1908 the status of the unit changed as Territorial Regiments were no longer permitted to include Cadet Corps, so the school applied for and were granted the status of an Officer’s Training Corp. This meant that the Royal West Kent badge was replaced by the Kentish Horse with Invicta inscription, and Annual Inspections were carried out by an officer appointed by the War Office, the first of these carried out by Captain W.D. Wright, V.C., who commended the company and especially appreciating their work in signaling. This was also the first year that the Lamprey Cup was awarded for the cadet who had ‘outstanding leadership and was a good example in the Army section’. In 1910, 31 cadets were inspected by the newly-crowned King George V at a review of the OTC at Windsor.
In 1915, some of the officers had been called up, including one G. B. Phillips, who was known to many of us older OMs. A rifle range was built and during the lunch hour voluntary bayonet fighting classes were held twice a week – beats conkers anytime! At the end of hostilities, the War Trophies Committee presented a German Machine Gun to the Contingent in recognition of the part played by MGS OTC in preparing candidates for commission during the Great War. Despite much searching, the gun does
not appear to be at the school, so it can only be assumed that it was melted down for metalwork for WW2 – or perhaps some O.M. has a large memento of his life at school in his Trophies Room?
The 1920’s saw further updates – webbing in lieu of leather, ‘plus-fours’ in lieu of breeches, and a D.P. Lewis Gun and two 30 watt wireless sets being supplied. Mr. T.P. Gutteridge (again, known to older OMs) was in charge of the latter. Also the annual Corps Supper was started with a meal and a programme of songs, sketches, monologues, etc. performed by both cadets and officers. Also, a name change had to be made as the government raised the minimum age limit to 15 – MGS got around this by forming a Junior Training Corps, the J.T.C.
In 1940, cadets were helping by manning a road block on the main Folkestone road, under the auspices of the Local Defense Volunteers, and senior NCOs were training the local Home guard in drill, field-craft, weapon training and P.T. In 1942 uniforms were made available on loan, due to clothing rationing, Army battledress replaced the plus-fours and there was a shortage of metals for cap and other badges, so non-ferrous ‘economy’ badges were made.
The Air Training Corps was formed in February 1941 from the old O.T.C. Air Section, with nearly 60 cadets on the books – flying must have been more appealing than squarebashing even with bayonet practice! By July of that year the unit had been divided into two Flights and by December had become officially known as the ATC 741 Squadron with 4 school Flights and one O.M. Flight all associated with RAF West Malling.
In 1948 the amalgamation of the JTC and the ATC was now known as The Combined Cadet Force.
I’ll go no further for the present on the matter of the CCF as I may be boring my readers who have or had no interest in this part of school life. I’ll include some of the memories that former students sent me following my request for information next time. And (sorry English Masters), as a suitable link to 1945, our recent V.E. celebrations and our CCF - ‘The Maidstonian’ reports that –
June 16th, 1945, was a great day for the School A.T.C. Squadron. In the A.T.C. Athletic Sports held at Aylesford, the Squadron won not only the Sheldon Cup (best of the three Maidstone rivals) but also the Bossom Cup, competed for by teams representing squadrons from the whole of Kent.
Also in 1945 the Inter-House Competition was restarted after being cancelled the previous year due to “doodle-bug” risks. Thanks were published for ‘the few boys who scrubbed out the (swimming) baths during the holidays and at the beginning of term, who cheerfully faced a monotonous job’. For those of my readers who do not remember the Swimming Baths, they were open to the elements all year and even when full of water and in use frequently had leaves and other vegetative matter as
well as carcasses of flies, beetles, etc. floating on the surface. That of course doesn’t mention the fact that were unheated, except by the sun! Should you wish to experience the sites and traumas of the swimming baths, they can be seen on the ‘Maidstone Grammar School – 1938’ video clips.
Presuming that it has not been changed, it was also noted that Lieut. Skinner, Commanding Officer of the Sea Cadets, presented a flagstaff which was placed above the entrance to the School. Mr. James Clifford, O.M. and Governor of the School (and a person who provided so much of archive experience for us) presented a Union Flag (wrongly reported as a ‘Union Jack’!) which was then flown for the first time on V.E. Day.
Finally, the December editions of ‘The Maidstonian’ report that the summer term started by cleaning off the white-wash from all the windows and in the autumn term ‘senior boys and Scouts have been busily engaged in demolishing the blast walls which have disfigured the School for the past five years. Work also began on taking down the concrete defenses and filling in the trenches.’ It is hard to imagine just how disfiguring these structures would have been when one looks at the open structure of the School site today. Maidstone was part of a key defense ‘fort’ and M.G.S. was an essential main post on the boundary of that ring of defenses. M.G.S. can stand proud!
I wish you all well for the summer session – rest and be thankful. Olim Meminisse Juvabit.
Lower School Speech Day
Prizewinners
Monday 14 July 2025
Year 7 Prizes
Subject Prizes
Art & Design
Computer Science
Design & Technology
English
French
Geography
German
History
Latin
Mathematics
Performing Arts
Physical Education
RS
Science
Spanish
Top Scholars in Year 7
Barton House
College House
Corpus Christi House
Tonbridge House
Top Scholar Overall in Year 7
Parents’ Association Prizes
Barton House
College House
Corpus Christi House
Tonbridge House
Z Nauman
D Melnikov
S Kleczkowski
P Pun
P Pun
H Tibbits
J Taylor
H Smajli
N Adeoye
J Cannop
D Long
S Hendrick
D Melnikov
J Taylor
J Wright
J Bowles
B Tsai
F Nolan
M Kibble
J Mejo Philip
M Brunet Bigot
F Parkinson
Tom Christian
M Yosoofi
D Rushanthan
W Russell
L Del Guercio
T Klopschinski
Year 8 Prizes
Subject Prizes
Art & Design
Computer Studies
Design & Technology
Drama
English
Food Technology
French
Geography
German
History
Latin
Mathematics
Music
Physical Education
RS
Science
Spanish
Top Scholars in Year 8
Barton House
College House
Corpus Christi House
Tonbridge House
Top Scholar Overall in Year 8
Parents’ Association Prizes
Barton House
College House
Corpus Christi House
Tonbridge House
C Silva
I Lawani
A Pietrowski
E Wallace
G Palmer
B Dimitrov
J Nicholson
X Boulton-Millband
K Horn
D Rawkins
D Woolerton
R Day
N Newsom
G Short
B Dimitrov
S Magar
M Syed
Z Howell
F Rugina
A Bachorski
K Horn
B Dimitrov
M Jones
N Sayamoni
H Kolodziejczyk
T Atkinson
R Tigere
M Nelson-Miller
A Leetham
K Rai
Lower School Speech Day Prizewinners
Monday 14 July 2025
Year 9 Prizes
Subject Prizes
Art & Design
Biology
Business
Chemistry
Classical Civilisation
Computer Science
Design and Technology
Drama
English
Film Studies
Ratcliffe Prize for Food Technology
French
Geography
German
History
Latin
Mathematics
Music
Physical Education
Physics
RS
Spanish
Top Scholars in Year 9
Barton House
College House
Corpus Christi House
Tonbridge House
Top Scholar Overall in Year 9
Parents’ Association Prizes
Barton House
College House
Corpus Christi House
Tonbridge House
T Holland
R Howard
R Valanejad
P Papai
R Valanejad
O Dada
D Cutler
O Tobin
H Penna
O Dada
J Richards
L Pettit
R Howard
M Baker
J Abor
O Cust
R Howard
R Valanejad
A Cross
R Harding
N Gunathilaka
O Oyetayo
R Howard
O Dada
R Howard
O Cust
H Bartle
R Valanejad
T Brunet Bigot
M Emilov
A Wong
N Shah
S Sadalkar
L Knight
F Allsebrook
O Sugrue
Year 10 Prizes
Subject Prizes
Art & Design
Biology
Chemistry
Classical Civilisation
Computer Science
Design &Technology
Drama
English
Film Studies
Food and Nutrition
French
Geography
German
History
Latin
Mathematics
Music
Physical Education
Physics
RS
Science
Sociology
Spanish
Top Scholars in Year 10
Barton House
College House
Corpus Christi House
Tonbridge House
Top Scholar Overall in Year 10
Parents’ Association Prizes
Barton House
College House
Corpus Christi House
Tonbridge House
A Medhurst
J Cobb
H Mills
H Mills
R Jones
A Medhurst
J Morley
H Howard
N Taylor
M Sunuwar
N Elliott-Tubb
H Mills
H Mills
Al Smith
A Medhurst
H Mills
J Giddings
Vi Valeriev
Z Kwalombota
N Taylor
H Mills
A Medhurst
L Spinkel
E De Moura
G Haggart
A Smith
S Parsons
J Giddings
J Cobb
N Taylor
H Mills
J Nash
J Beckett
J Gadsdon
A Healey
L Spinkel
O Otun
R Croom
H Bellhouse
Key Dates
Mon 1 September INSET Day
Tues 2 September Start of Year for Year 7, 12 & 13
Wed 3 September Start of Year for Year 8, 9, 10 & 11
Thur 4 September Year 12 Team Building Day
Fri 5 September Year 7 Team Building Day Upper School Speech Day
Wed 10 September Student Photos
Fri 26 September MacMillan Coffee Morning
Tues 7 October Year 5 & 6 Open Morning
Tues 14 October Year 5 & 6 Open Morning
Thurs 16 October 11+ Open Evening End of Term 1
Mon 27 October Start of Term 2
Tues 28 October Sixth Form Afternoon for Internal Y11
Sat 1 November MGSPA Firework Display
Tues 11 November Remembrance Service
Fri 14 November Children in Need Charity Day
Mon 24 November Post 16 Open Morning
Tues 25 November Post 16 Open Morning
Thur 27 November Post 16 Open Evening
Mon 1 December Post 16 Open Morning
Fri 19 December End of Term 2
Calling Old Maidstonians!
Issue 47 of the Old Maidstonian Socity’s newsletter is out now! Click the link to read this issue: https://mgs.kent.sch.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/The-Old-Maidstonian-Issue-47-Summer-2025.pdf
If you have something to share for a future issue, or simply want to reconnect, feel free to get in touch with any member of the committee – or email us directly at newsletter@ oldmaidstonians.org.uk
We welcome all content from Old Maidstonians – nothing is too small or too niche. Whether it’s a memory from your school days, an update on your life or career, a recent achievement, or a funny anecdote from your time at MGS, we’d be delighted to include it. Photos, reflections, poems, and even news about other Old Maidstonians are all very welcome.
No need to worry about polish – we just want to hear your voice. It’s your stories that bring our community to life.
