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Maidstone Grammar School Newsletter

From the Headteacher

Welcome to this, our 2024 MGS Winter Newsletter. We have not only reached the end of the autumn term we have also reached the end of 2024: the year we have spent acknowledging and celebrating the school’s 475th

birthday. As I look back on the term and on the year I am reminded of the many opportunities and events that have reminded us what it means to be a Maidstonian: a feeling of connection to our fellow Maidstonians and a

feeling of belonging to something special. One particular event this term was the Ofsted inspection back in October. Despite the pressures that come with an inspection and the sleepless night before Day 1, it actually ended up being a really positive and uplifting experience. The entire school community came together to share with the inspectors how they all feel about MGS and how proud they all are of this school. You hopefully by now will have seen the final report which identifies many of our strengths as well as affirming to us the work that we are doing to go on developing the school is on the correct path, but a positive Ofsted report does not just come from the days during an inspection, it comes from the days, weeks, months, and years prior to the inspection. So, thank you to everyone who not only supported the school through the Ofsted process, but who support the school each and every day to make it what it is.

As well as a successful inspection, we have also experienced another term full of opportunities, news stories and successes that are worthy of acknowledgement, and so the pages behind this one give you a flavour of what has been going on at MGS since September.

But before you read on, the end of term signifies the end of the MGS journey for a number of members of staff, and this month we say thank you and goodbye to five: Mr Ellis, Ms Kennedy, Mr Bourne, Mrs Friend and Mrs Cook. Mr Ellis leaves this month after supporting the school since September teaching geography. He has been a valued colleague over the last few years but is now stepping back to enjoy more of his retirement. Thank you Mr Ellis. Miss Kennedy only began teaching maths at MGS

last year, but since September has been unwell, so has not been able to be here since July. She has now made the decision to leave MGS and move to Cambridgeshire to be closer to her family. We wish her well. Mr Bourne has been at MGS since 2015 in the role of Subject Leader of Music, and in his time has been responsible for teaching all music students at both GCSE and A-level. In addition to his teaching, he has supported the Performing Arts Department with a huge array of extra-curricular opportunities, ranging from small music ensembles to large school productions - the biggest being probably Shrek: The Musical in 2023. He not only leaves MGS at the end of the term he also leaves teaching. He is embarking on a new career in finance, and so not only do we wish him well, we also express a little sorrow that someone like Mr Bourne is leaving the classroom: a place where he has inspired many young people in the love of his subject.

Mrs Friend, my PA, retires after being at MGS for 25 years. She joined MGS back in 2000 when it was a very different place, and in that time has supported three headteachers: the last being myself for the last 12 and a bit years. Mrs Friend has been the backbone of this school for several years and is the person everyone wants to see when people come to my office. Behind every woman is a man, and with me and Mrs Friend, that atypical phrase is so true. I will miss Mrs Friend a great deal as she has been more than just a PA to me. She has been like a big sister acting as a mentor and a confidant when I needed her help. She has seen me at my best, and she has certainly seen me at my worst. I will miss our chats over coffee in the morning, and I will miss her sharp sense of humour. Fortunately, she is not leaving my side

and the service of MGS for long. She is returning in January as the clerk to the governing body: a role that will be hidden from view for many on a daily basis but will be a crucial role keeping my bosses (the governing body) in check - supporting them to do their role in supporting the school. I wish her all the best in her retirement, and I know that we will remain close friends for the rest of our lives.

And finally, I wish to say goodbye to Mrs Cook, the school bursar. Mrs Cook has been working at MGS since 1994 and is essentially the member of staff who is responsible for the business aspects of the school. Everything from ensuring the students have exercise books to write in, to having classrooms to learn in, Mrs Cook has been the one person to ensure these things happen. To give you some idea (and this is not an exhaustive list), before Mrs Cook arrived there was no Walker Building, no Refectory, no Performing Arts Building, no Media Block, no Sixth Form Common Room and Food Tech Block, no new science and computing wing to the main building, no new pavilion and no all-weather pitch. She has secured funding to buy all of the school minibuses, all of the sound and light equipment in the Big Hall, re-developed the school library, transformed the classrooms above the library to create the sixth form study area, installed the video wall in the main lobby, is in the process of creating a new student services centre, and in her last project, converted the old gym into a new strength and conditioning gym to support the school’s PE and games programme. Mrs Cook has been integral to the development of MGS over the last 30 years - she is MGS. On a personal level, she has been a huge supporter of me and has been someone I could

trust. Like Mrs Friend, I am going to miss her a great deal, and hope that she takes away with her the knowledge that the community of Maidstonians, here and beyond the school gates, are extremely grateful in the contributions that she has made. Best wishes Mrs Cook in your retirement – you should be very proud of the MGS that you have helped to create.

I am only left to wish you all a merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year. We’ll see you all in 2025.

Mr Tomkins

Headteacher

A Message from the School Captain & Vice-Captain

By Isaac M, Year 13, Corpus Christi House

The Christmas break concludes a busy term for the MGS prefect team. We’ve orchestrated two open evenings, three charity days, and countless other events necessary to support the school community. With Year 13 mocks next month, we will be increasingly relying on our junior prefects in the new year to maintain the high standards established over the last few months.

Before this, however, everyone is excited for a much-deserved pause from daily school life. We are excited to spend time with family, socialise with friends, and enjoy the pleasantries associated with the festive period. This year, the release of ‘Wallace and Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl’ on Christmas Day promises to be a highlight, and there is fervent anticipation building amongst prefects for its release.

Whilst there are many highlights from this term, being awarded full School Colours stands out as an achievement Noah and I are immensely proud of. The acknowledgement of our services with the school’s highest honour is something Maidstonians consistently aspire to and therefore invokes a sense of pride amongst all recipients. We thank the school profoundly for our nominations.

With our names now enshrined onto the School Captain and Vice-Captain boards respectively, it is easy to think about life after MGS. The theme of my Christmas speech this year was to ‘live the moment’, and this message applies to our circumstances now. We will continue to appreciate our time left at this school, right until our final day. So, just like the second ghost of Christmas, we will focus on each day remaining, because sometimes we don’t realise just how good we have it.

Karting Success

George C (Year 9, Barton House) has spent most of his time this year developing his skills at various kart tracks. He has competed in the BMKR Club Championship at Bayford Meadows Kart Circuit, Sittingbourne, as well as the MVKC Championship at Buckmore Park. Over the six rounds of the MVKC Championship, he finished as vicechampion. In the ninth and final round at BMKR, he secured the championship, which was a fantastic achievement after all the hard work he put in both on and off the track. His recent karting achievements were also featured in a recent edition of the Kent Messenger.

BBC Bitesize Careers Tour

The BBC Bitesize Careers Tour recently visited the school, delivering presentations to Year 7, 8, 9, and 10 students to raise awareness of career aspirations and provide practical advice on pursuing careers in various fields. The presenters shared insights into their career paths and discussed topics such as relevant qualifications, personal anecdotes, advice on work experience, and key soft skills for the workplace. The session was hosted by DJ Fee Mak from BBC Radio 1Xtra, with panellists including Josephine Clark – Commercial Director at Maidstone Studios, Sam Harding – Early Careers Apprentice at BBC Radio Kent, and Michael Johnson – Managing Director of Minerva Creative.

Merry Christmas MGS

Tonbridge’s Charity Day

By Abid R, Year 13, Tonbridge House

Tonbridge charities day was lucky to be bundled with Christmas Jumper Day, bringing the festive spirit along with the events to come.

It began with the customary bake sale, where the sweets sold out 3 times! Many were keen to try the cupcakes prepared by our junior prefects, showing great success.

During lunch, the main events occurred, featuring the crossbar challenge and the star attraction of the day - the Battle of the Bands. This allowed students and staff alike to take the stage and present their talents to MGS.

The show continued after school, which had 10 bands perform in front of friends and family. Covers of famous artists such as Aerosmith, Green Day and Arctic Monkeys were included, along with some performing their original compositions. It starts with the reunion of the staff band with Mr. Holmes as lead singer, accompanied by Mr. Taylor, Mr. Parish, Mr. Martin and Ms. Alloy. This led to the students’ performances, showcasing some impressive solo acts, before moving onto bands such as ‘Rock, Paper, Scissors’, ‘SNS’, and ‘Vertigo’, finally concluding with the headliners - ‘Floor 14’, which featured one of our own junior prefects, Josh H (Year 12 Tonbridge House), as the drummer. Both the performers and

the crowd had great fun throughout the evening, where many could enjoy a concert experience closer to home.

With this success, MGS showed their support for our chosen charity, the Salvation Army, and from this we will gain momentum to hopefully make a strong mark in the House Cup.

Remembrance 2024

On Remembrance Day, the whole school assembled in the front car park for our Remembrance Day service and two minute silence.

Our CCF contingents took part in the annual commemorations in Maidstone on Remembrance Sunday.

On Remembrance Day, as we reflected on those who served, we received a poignant photo from a member of the public. It shows MGS boys marching to the police station to volunteer.

MGSPA Annual Fireworks Spectacular

Thank you to everyone who attended and supported our MGSPA Annual Fireworks Spectacular in November. A massive thanks also to our Parents’ Association, without whom the event wouldn’t have been possible.

Young Musician

Congratulations to Toby R (Year 12 Tonbridge House), who has successfully been accepted to play for the National Youth Orchestra. This prestigious ensemble is made up of the best young musicians in the country, and they perform at many high-profile events throughout the year, including the summer Proms.

DofE Gold

Congratulations to our two Gold DofE groups for successfully completing their Gold assessed expedition in Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park over the summer break. A massive thank you to the staff who also supported this expedition.

MVP

Shayne S (Year 11, Barton House) was selected to compete in the European Youth Basketball League tournament in Budapest earlier this term, representing his team, Kent Panthers. Shayne had a great time competing in the tournament and was awarded Team MVP. A massive congratulations to Shayne!

Literary Festival

Year 8 and 9 students recently attended the Maidstone Literary Festival, where they met and attended a careers workshop with the awardwinning author Joseph Coelho. They came up with fantastic similes and metaphors, learned how to use interesting language in description, and shared all this with their peers from other schools in Maidstone. They also learned about what a career in writing is like and how to be successful.

Art Teachers

An exhibition featuring the work of our art teachers opened in September and ran until mid December at the Maidstone Museum.

Economics Conference

Our Year 12 and 13 Economics students recently attended the EBEA Student Economics Conference virtually, where they heard from a wide range of speakers, including Tim Harford, economist, writer, and podcaster, who spoke on screen.

College’s Charity Day

By Benji B, Year 13, College House

24 hours of sport took place for the recent BBC Children in Need. The school hosted several activities throughout the day, with various sporting events, including a Rowathon, rugby, crossbar football, and badminton, taking place overnight from 9pm to 9am. College’s charities day this year was held in support of Children in Need and the great work they do supporting thousands of charities across the country.

The day started the night before with over 400 cakes being made by the prefect team under the careful supervision of Juliette (Year 13), one of our senior prefects.

The following morning, everyone was on the gates early to collect a pound from everyone wearing non-school uniform, it was great to see many people wearing yellow and showing their support.

This was also when our all day rowathon started, forming part of the 24-hour sport challenge led by Mr Williams. Collectively everyone rowed well over 250km, and the sports challenge as a whole was completed successfully, raising a great deal of money.

At break and lunch all of the cakes were sold and enjoyed, a particular favourite being the brownie which went very quickly. Alongside this at lunch, a number of stalls were run including a ‘Guess the weight of Ollie Court challenge’, guess the number of sweets in the jar, a crossbar challenge and a jumble sale. These were well attended, and the remains of the jumble sale were then distributed to other charity shops around Maidstone, ensuring nothing went to waste.

All in all, it was a fantastic occasion in school and a fantastic occasion for Children in Need who will make great use of the final total of £2415.72 raised!

Mark T, Year 10, Corpus Christi House

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Thank you to all those who attended our 11+ Open Evening at the end of Term 1. A massive well done to our School Captain Isaac M (Year 13 Corpus Christi) and Damian S (Year 7 Corpus Christi), who spoke on two occasions to a packed Big Hall during the Headteacher’s talks. Thank you also to Alexander M (Year 8 Tonbridge House) for expertly playing the piano at the talks.

Year 6 Open Evening Autumn Showcase

Our Autumn Showcase took place in Term 1. Thank you to all those who attended and supported the event and a massive thanks to all the cast and crew of students and staff for making the event a great success.

Junior Track Cycling World Champion

A massive congratulations to Carys L (Year 13, Corpus Christi), who took part in the Junior Track World Championships in Louyang, China, over the summer, competing in three events with great success! In the Team Pursuit, Carys and her team placed first, setting a World Record of 4 minutes 20 seconds for 4 km. In the Individual Pursuit, Carys won another gold medal and achieved a personal best. Finally, in the Madison, she and her partner won the race, finishing 17 points clear of second place. Well done Carys, we’re proud of you!

DoE Silver

Congratulations to Luka D (Year 11 Tonbridge), Lewis R (Year 11 College) and Oscar R (Year 11 Corpus Christi) for being the first three participants of the cohort to successfully complete all four sections of their Silver DofE Award. Their volunteering efforts have been greatly appreciated in the local community.

Grand Designers

A massive thanks to Richard Hawkes for sharing his experiences of running his own architecture practice, as well as the many buildings he has designed and his work on Grand Designs, with Year 9 earlier this term.

Allen in Wonderland

The Performing Arts department is currently in rehearsal for their pantomime, “Allen in Wonderland”. They were very lucky to be joined in rehearsal by Joe Meloy, who wrote the pantomime and is currently starring as one of the Ugly Sisters in Cinderella at the Hazlitt Theatre. Joe spent some time working with our Dame, Ed W (Year 13, Barton House). Tickets for the show will be available soon, with performances on the 11th, 12th, and 13th of February 2025.

Army Section Activities

By CSM

From September, the Army Section has had a major focus on getting our new intake of year nines up to scratch.This has involved drill lessons, ensuring they can march and perform static drill in a military and methodical manner, and then drill tests, to test their capabilities. We have also included vital first aid lessons, building on what they learn as part of the standard school curriculum. Finally, we have included Skill at Arms lessons, teaching the recruits how to safely and effectively fire the .22lr calibre bolt action rifle, creating a baseline of weapons handling knowledge, to be built on further once they move onto the service rifle in the new year.

Besides the recruits, our Junior Non-Commisioned Officers have been undertaking the CFIT program - Cadet Forces Instructional Training, to gain the qualification to be Instructors, allowing them to teach subjects such as fieldcraft, first aid, and drill.

Looking forward into the new year, we have a recruit camp planned, where we will spend a weekend with the year 9 intake, allowing them to gain experience in the field, with instructors close by. In conclusion, a busy 2 terms, and busy terms to come

Navy Section Update

By CPO Jenner IC Royal Navy Section, Year 13, Tonbridge House

As of September, the Royal Navy section has been making significant progress in integrating the new year nine cadets with the rest of the section. A lot of teambuilding activities have taken place to help them better understand what we are about and become friends with the older cadets. These older cadets have been taking lessons each week to teach the younger cadets that skills and knowledge needed to progress up the ranks and take the tests.

We have just held a trip to Britannia Royal Naval College where the year nines got to see where the future Royal Navy officers are trained and whilst there, they met an Old Madistonian who is training to become an officer. During their stay, they completed many activities including a bridge simulator, low ropes and some water based activities. On the way home they stopped at the Fleet Air Arm Museum to discover a little about this branch of the Royal Navy.

The older cadets have been stepping up into leadership roles to prove that they should be the next Chief for their year which has allowed the year nines to learn a great deal from them and create strong bonds for the future.

In the new year, we will be accompanying the other two sections on a joint recruit cam for a weekend where we will be off to Portsmouth to continue learning first-hand what the Royal Navy get up to day-to-day.

A lot has been accomplished at the start of this year and there is guaranteed to be a lot happening in the coming terms.

Hicks, Cadet IC Army Section. Year 13, Barton House

Activities of the Royal Air Force Section

By FS Scott IC MGS (RAF) CCF Section, Year 13, Corpus Christi House

As Christmas rapidly approaches, I think it is incredibly important to stop and reflect on the past two terms and how much progress the RAF section’s made in this time.

After the departure of the section’s officers, Mr. Moores and Parish, the RAF section was put in a tricky situation, leaving Fg Off Dimmick to lead the section with the help of Mr. Williams and Havrik-Ransom.

I am incredibly thankful for the time and effort committed to our section by our CFAVs allowing our beloved section to thrive once again.

The past two terms have been packed with a wide variety of practical activities whilst the weather allows it, this has included drill, leadership tasks, first aid, observation and conflict management tasks, this has been enjoyed by our cadets of all ages, and it has been amazing to see the levels of engagement from everyone.

As well as this, our new recruits have been adapting to the cadet life learning the skills behind their uniforms and drill; making improvements each week.

At the beginning of this month, we saw many new NCO promotions for the older cadets who have shown great potential in terms of instruction and leadership, with them helping to run parades on their topics of interest, e.g. radio exercises, leadership tasks, aircraft recognition and much more. They have become self-confident and more self-sufficient by helping with several of our public

engagements like the school’s open evenings and remembrance parade this year.

Overall, the year has kicked off with a bang and there is no intention of slowing down, as we move into the next year; I am excited to develop the finer skills of our RAST team and for the trips and opportunities it holds for us all.

GCSE Results Day

Maidstone Grammar School is delighted to announce an excellent set of GCSE results this year. 45% of all subject grades were graded 7 to 9, 24% of all subject grades were graded 8/9 and 95% of students gained five 9 4 grades including English and Mathematics. 23 students out of the year group achieved at least eight grades at level 8 or higher, with seven students achieving at least a level 8 in ten of their subjects. Three students did outstandingly well achieving a level 9 in at least eight of their subjects.

Mark Tomkins, headteacher, commented that ‘the school is delighted that the students have performed so well, which is a result of a combination of hard work by both the students and dedicated staff. Year 11 should be immensely proud.’

A Level Results Day

Maidstone Grammar School is delighted to announce a very good set of A Level examination results. 60% of all grades were graded A*- B, 21% of all grades were graded A*/A, and 11 students achieved at least three A grades or better. Particular recognition must go to the three students who gained at least three A* grades.

The excellent performance across the School means that many of the students have achieved their university offers.

Headteacher Mark Tomkins commented that ‘these excellent grades represent the enormous and collective efforts put in by both students and staff over the last two years.’

Team

Building

Year 7 had a great time solving problems and challenges during their Team Building Day in September.

476th

Our Year 7 students, who joined us in September, are our 476th cohort since our founding in 1549. It has been great to see them quickly settle into life at MGS and begin to see themselves as Maidstonians. We look forward to working closely with them and their families in the coming years.

MacMillan

Thank you to everyone who attended and supported our Macmillan Coffee Morning earlier this term. Many people from the wider school community joined staff and students for this, our first charity day of the year. Lots of cake was eaten, and with the non-uniform contributions, we raised just over £2,000 for the charity.

Field Trip

Year 12 Geography

Our

Field Trip took place at Reculver Towers and the Roman Fort over two days earlier this term.

The first match of the season took place recently for our Senior Girls Rugby Team. Girls’ Rugby NHS Visit

Our Year 9 Future Medics recently visited Maidstone Hospital as part of their careers education.

MGS Sport

By Mr M Eldridge

Highlights:

• MGS have played in 188 fixtures since the start of this academic year

• The 1st XI football team are East Kent Premier winners

• The 1st XI football team are in the Last 16 of the National Cup

• The 2nd XI football team are Division 2 winners

• The 2nd XI football team are in the Kent Cup Quarter Final

• Senior rugby made it to the National Cup Last 16 Vase

• Year 10 rugby team made it to the National Cup Last 32 Bowl

• Year 9 rugby team are in the National Cup Regional Semifinal

• Year 8 basketball are county group winners

Individual Achievement:

Harrison W (Year 9 Tonbridge House) has represented the school in all

3 A teams (rugby, football and basketball)

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 in Terms 3 & 4.

Applications!

Making applications is an important focus of these two terms.

• All our Year 13 students have made their university applications, through UCAS, or started applying for employment and apprenticeship positions for when they leave MGS.

• All our Year 11 students have started the application process for their 6th Form, college or apprenticeship places for next year.

• Application support is part of the Yr11 PSHCE lessons and 6th Form Core Programme.

Year 11 Careers Meetings

• Throughout these two terms our Year 11 students are scheduled individual appointments with the Careers Team to get impartial information, advice and guidance about their Post-16 Options and future career and study plans

Year 12 Information Evening: 11th September

Higher Education Fair: 18th September

• Our annual Higher Education Fair was open to students (and their parents) in Year 10 and above, from MGS and other local schools, and provided an opportunity to talk with representatives from a variety of universities, colleges and apprenticeship organisations. This year we had 50 exhibitors and almost 1500 visitors, so a very successful and informative evening for all.

Year 11 Information Evening: 4th November

Sixth Form Open Evening: 28th October

• The open evening enabled Year 11 students from MGS and other schools and their parents to talk with subject teachers and find out more about the A level courses available at MGS

BBC Bitesize Careers Tour: 27th November

• Our Year 7-10 students had the opportunity to attend engaging presentations delivered by the BBC Bitesize Careers Tour. The aim of tour is to inspire students about their futures by introducing them to a range of different careers and talented individuals from the local area.

Year 8 Careers Days: 4th-5th December

• Our Year 8 students took part in a series of careers activities, delivered by MGS staff and external Careers Advisers from the CXK service, designed to help them investigate a variety of occupations and get ideas about the different careers that might interest them in the future. Additionally they listened to presentations about the new GCSE subjects available to them at MGS.

In Terms 3 & 4 the following activities will be taking place:

• Year 12 individual Careers Meetings

• Maidstone Apprenticeship Fair at Mote Park for Year 11 and 6th Form students: 7th March

• Careers Afternoon for Year 9-13 students: 13th March

• Year 11 Meetings with SLT: 17th-21st March

MGS Higher Education Fair: 10 Years On…

By Mrs S Acaster, Careers and Enterprise Manager

On September 18th we hosted our Higher Education Fair, now in its 10th Year.

The event has become an annual institution since we first launched it in 2014. We are lucky to have continued support from a wide range of universities, colleges and apprenticeship organisations who regularly attend our event to talk with students and parents about their institutions and opportunities on offer.

The event is open to students (and their parents) in Years 10-13 from MGS and neighbouring schools and colleges. We are always pleased at the level of attendance: almost 1500 visitors this year!

2024 Exhibitors:

University of Aberdeen, ASK Apprenticeships, Aston University, University of Bath, BIMM Music Institute, University of Birmingham, University of Cambridge, Canterbury Christ Church University, Cardiff University, Coventry University, Durham University ,University of East Anglia, University of Essex, University of Exeter, Falmouth University, University of Glasgow, University of Greenwich, Hadlow & North Kent College, University of Hertfordshire, Imperial College London, Institute of Osteopathy, University of Kent, Kent & Medway Medical School, King’s College London, Lancaster University, University of Leeds, University of Liverpool, London School of Economics & Political Science, Loughborough University, Medway School of Arts, Mid-Kent College, University of Nottingham, University of Oxford, Oxford Brookes University, University of Plymouth, University of Portsmouth, Queen’s University Belfast, University of Reading, Royal Holloway University, University of Sheffield, Solent University, University of Southampton, , University of Surrey, University of Sussex, Swansea University, University College London, University for the Creative Arts, University of Warwick, University of Winchester, University of York.

Feedback, from exhibitors and visitors, is collated each year to ensure that the event is meeting the needs of both parties and continues to be well attended in future years:

Parent: “Thank you for planning the Higher Education Fair. It was great. Brilliant to see so many universities in one place and learn about their courses and facilities. Both my elder children attended with me. Everyone was very helpful, enthusiastic and willing to answer all the questions my two had. The set up was great. Not too many and not too few universities and some from the north, midlands and the south.”

Parent: “Thank you for organising such an event. My son is in Year 11 and we have started to broach questions of A Level options. This event and the conversations we had with the uni reps were really helpful in giving us ideas at the beginning of this journey. There was a great variety of types of uni and courses. One point and because it’s new and of much interest, the apprenticeship route was particularly busy!”

Exhibitor: “Thank you so much, the event was great as always! Also thank you for the detailed attendance information, that’s so helpful for us to know exactly who we’ve engaged with (I wish more schools did this!).”

Exhibitor: “Thank you for inviting us to your fair again this year. There was a good number of students who attended and your event was so well organised - as always. We look forward to attending next year.”

Exhibitor: “It was lovely to meet your students and so many others from other schools on Wednesday, congratulations on hosting such a great event!”

Exhibitor: “It was great to see students from so many different schools coming along and attending the event – love a bit of joined up working! I still can’t believe how busy an evening it was, just brilliant! (and went so incredibly fast!)”

Exhibitor: “Many thanks for the invitation to Maidstone Grammar’s HE Fair. It was a wonderfully organised event and I really enjoyed the conversations I had with your students as well as those from other schools. There was a great interest both in the range of HE opportunities available as well as some really interesting discussions about alternative post-18 routes.”

Upper School Speech Day Prizewinners

Friday 6 September 2024

We were delighted to recently welcome back our 2024 Leavers to receive prizes at our Upper School Speech Day. Prizes were also awarded to a number of senior students from the previous Year 11 and 12. This year’s guest of honour was Old Maidstonian, Dan Abnett, who attended MGS in the 1980s and went on to write for Marvel and DC Comics. Congratulations to all the prize-winners, and a special thank you to Dan and all our guests for attending and supporting this event.

Year 11

Art O Hawkes

Biology W Collier

Business Studies J Martin

Chemistry J Le

Classical Civilisation R Allan

Computer Science J Jia Liu

Design Technology J Howells

Drama M Tynan

English Language R Allan

English Literature R Hendry

Food Preparation & Nutrition W Collier

French N Murphy

Further Mathematics A Noorullah

Geography N Gurung

German A Taylor

History M McKeon

Latin R Allan

Mathematics W Collier

Music M Russell

Film Studies F Rugina

Physical Education A Bachorski

Physics W Collier

RS A Bachorski

Science J Martin

Sociology N Gurung

Spanish J Le

Top Scholars in Year 11

Barton House N Gurung

College House F Rugina

Corpus Christi A Bachorski

Tonbridge House J Martin

Lubbock Prize for outstanding GCSE Results R Allan & W Collier

Parents’ Association Prizes

Hayden Fillery A Hossain M Liebenberg J Foulger

C Tse R Bhatt arai H Staples A Balla

Upper School Speech Day

Prizewinners

Friday 6 September 2024

Year 12

Art D Tollas

Biology L Stockwell

Business Studies I Gregory

Chemistry L Stockwell

Classical Civilisation T Cox

Computer Science S Scott

Design & Technology A Yarmus

Economics B Brooks

English Literature I Marriner

Film Studies S Tysoe

French H Allsebrook

Further Mathematics M Collins

Geography C McLeish

German H Allsebrook

History E Sturge

Mathematics K Singh

Media Studies S Tysoe

Music L Fleet

Music Technology Z Veitch

PE C Hill

Brian Simons Prize for Philosophy J Jackson

Physics K Singh

Politics F Matthews

Psychology N Quiller

Sociology D Tollas

Spanish C Senges-Almasi

Top Scholars in Year 12

Barton House K Singh

College House S Tysoe

Corpus Christi House I Marriner

Tonbridge House I Gregory

Overall Top Scholar B Brooks

Parents’ Association Prizes

D Anosike

K Gurung

G Howard

G Ostler

Y Rafiqi

T Morris

I Trotter

B McGeorge

Year 13

Art K Reynolds

Design and Technology D Ringelmann

Latin J Harris

Mathematics B Corby

Music A Ford

Music Technology C Vening

Physical Education R Lamb

Philosophy J Harmon

Politics J Harmon

Psychology M Staples

Crosthwaite Prizes

Biology M Venegas-Grau

Chemistry A Shatish

Computer Science J Heathcote

Physics C Hilder

War Memorial Prizes

Business Studies S Kharel

Economics

Film Studies

B Corby

C Stephens

French A Hyland

German S Atkins

Media Studies

C Stephens

Sociology C Hill

Classical Civilisation A Shatish

Philips Prize for History A Lee

Bossom Prize for Further Maths B Corby

Gilbert Prize for Geography L -M McNab

Top Scholars in Year 13

Barton House B Corby

College House C Hill

Corpus Christi House J Harris

Tonbridge House J Harmon

Randall Prize for Top A Level Scholar C Stephens

Parents’ Association Prizes

S Gurung

E Simpson

D Linnell

F Sung

C Birchall

F Akinbileje

C Squirrell

Upper School Speech Day

Prizewinners

Friday 6 September 2024

Special Prizes

Carter Cup for Cricket

Maidstone Football Cup for Rugby

Clubman Cup for Soccer

Bruce Malcolm Cup for Golf

Duffield Cup for Shooting

Heard Cup (RAF)

Lamprey Cup (Army)

Sir Henry Moore Cup (RN)

Design Trophy

Howard Cup for Classics

Mary Clark Prize for Drama

Paul Evans Prize for GCSE Fieldwork

Richard Clark Cup for Fieldwork

Hodges-Pocock Geography Prize

Jane Matek Prize for Science

Christopher Turner Cup for Excellence in French

Ben Babington-Browne Memorial Music Trophy

Claydon Prize for spoken French

Daniel Carlton Trophy

Chiefy [CPO Gude] Prize

Debating and Public Speaking Plate

Expressive Arts Cup

Martin Passmore Cup

A Karassellos

D Wickins

T Roantree

J Van Niekerk

J Whiting

R Lawrence

J Kerner

K Barrie

K Reynolds

J Harris

C Dolley

N Gurung

D Rosier

C Stephens

C McLeish

A Hyland

M Russell

H Allsebrook

M Venegas-Grau

J Pettitt

A Lee

J Martin

A Dow

Gary Stock Prize for Improved performance in Sixth Form F Baxter

Dr Christine Hart-Scott Award in memory of Ernest Hart OM J Butler

Neil Turrell Prize

Old Maidstonian Ted Clifford Award

S Medina-Sodey

A Lee

Old Maidstonian Alex Stewart Award D Wickins

Naomi Lumutenga Cup for Gobal Engagment C Hill

Headteacher’s Prizes for Exceptional Achievement

Jubilee Award for Service

C Vening

David Kerr Cup for Outstanding leadership E Simmonds

Gravitts Prize for All Round Achievement and Service J Harmon

Streatfield Manning Prize for Service and Influence in the School J Riedl

Lawrence Prize for Leadership and influence in the school R Lamb

Musings from the Penthouse #28

By Icarus

School Anniversary year over, general elections passed, new government formed, new monarch, etc., I think it is time we looked back and delve into our memories. At least with memories there is some kind of firmness –depending on our ability to recall them that is!

Some of you more senior gentlemen (we don’t have lady OMs of that generation) may recall the folk song made popular by Nina & Frederik and Nana Mouskouri in 1965 ‘Try to Remember the Kind of September’ when one was asked to recall a time ‘when life was slow and oh, so mellow’ and we were tender and callow fellows. Looking back as the song encourages does tend to make us view life through rose-tinted glasses, that’s where archive records become so important. Continuing on the musical theme there was another popular song, sung by perhaps a more news-worthy singer, Marianne Faithfull, ‘What have they done to the rain?’ which lists through its verses the increasing extent of rainfall. Those of us living in The Garden of England will be fully aware that this September was the wettest since the early 1800s with over 250% of the normal September rainfall recorded. Perhaps those of you who live further afield might be looking for rainfall or may have had greater records set. Sorry, being an Englishman one does tend to talk about the weather too much – now back to the archives.

Most enquiries for archival information relate to achievements and relationships, but there is one section in The Maidstonian that seldom receives requests, in fact this was the first one in over 8 years. That is the ‘Original Contributions’ section. This section started off as just an odd item buried in the main body, before developing into a multipage section of its own in the centre of the magazine. Regrettably, due to editor’s whims or possibly public demand, ‘Original Contributions’ spread to make a large part of The Maidstonian almost comic like. All original contributions are preserved in the hard copies of the magazine but many have not been digitalised as it was considered that reference to them would be very rare.

It was therefore quite a surprise when O.M. Graham Shaw asked if we had a copy of an item he had contributed as a ‘tender and callow fellow’ back in 1959 and even more so that a digital copy of it had been made. I have asked Graham’s permission and he has agreed to me including it here.

MY IDEAL HOUSE

As you come into view of the house, the location seems very desolate. The ground around is barren, consisting of chalk cliffs, with tufts of short grass here and there, where it is sheltered from the biting wind.

The house, set into the rock, appears small, damp and dreary to other people, but to me it is the best abode imaginable. A small door, made of driftwood, leads into the solid rock itself. Hewn out of the rock are several small windows, and a larger one further up

the cliff. The door and windows give light to the main room. In one corner there is an old oil-stove which serves as the main source of heat, and which I use for cooking my meals of fish and other seafoods taken from the bay, far, far below. The room, being small, does not seem really cold. On a rock shelf set in the far wall are two old lanterns which serve as light during the long winter evening, when I sit alone with my thoughts.

Further into the rock there is a small flight of steps which leads into the other, smaller room. There is no door, but there is a window in the wall opposite, which looks out over the bay. Here, on summer evenings, I sometimes sit and watch the sun setting over the blue water.

My bed is a raised piece of stone with plenty of woollen blankets to keep me warm and take away the hard feeling of the rock. On one side of the entrance is a strong wooden chest which I had before I settled here. In it I keep my few precious belongings. Propped up against one wall are a fishing-rod, home-made, but very efficient, a couple of lobster pots and an old fishing net, long past repair.

This is my house I have always wanted to live in, and, whatever happens, nothing could change that desire.

G.SHAW (4L)

Graham was obviously a young man who thought ‘outside of the box’, considering that everybody else in the class, when set the task of writing about their ‘Ideal House’, would probably describe multiple garages, tennis courts, swimming pool, stables, etc. He just wanted to take an alternative ‘minimalist’ approach. I did ask him whether he had changed his mind about that easy lifestyle over the 65 years and he has agreed that his suburban flat is more comfortable than the cave. How many more of us have lifestyles which are completely different from the ideas of our youth? Cue for contributions!

I suggested to Graham that he could perhaps send memories of his time at MGS and he has sent in memoires and opinions which will be included in later editions of the newsletter space permitting.

The U.K. has recently witnessed the presence of Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan–ATLAS) streaking across our western skies. An imagined archivist on the comet last time it graced our skies would have recorded a small intelligent group of two-legged occupants in Africa that were developing tools and their skills at using them, and a similar, but more rugged creature with deep furroughed brows who seemed unable to make more sophisticated tools as those of the Africans. When the imagined fellow returned this year he would have noticed that the Neanderthals had vanished and that Homo Sapiens had learned to excel in making sophisticated tools which could be used, and are being used, to annihilate each other, or to investigate other heavenly bodies which they hoped might accommodate mankind when mankind had poisoned this Blue Planet into a Grey-green toxic mass, more barren than the archivists own home. One wonders what he will find when he returns in 80,000 years’ time. (Apologies to all Historians for errata).

At the time when A3 was making its most recent approach to earth another heavenly body appeared, referred to as a ‘star’ which illuminated a small area in a small town, causing some astronomers to seek its purpose and reason. What they found was the birthplace of a young boy, who would be named ‘The Light of the World’. In a couple of weeks’ time, many of us will be celebrating the birth of that child and wishing each other ‘A Joyous Christmas’ and I would like to wish all my readers a rich blessing for the season and that the forthcoming year will be a fruitful and happy one.

Post Script –

It is with great sadness that I have to say farewell to Mrs. Denise Friend (Head-Teacher’s P.A.) and Mrs. Heather Cook (School Bursar) who are each taking wellearned retirements at the end of this term, Both of these ladies have been of invaluable help to the Archives and the various archivists, to myself, and, of course to the school over decades of time (yes, I do mean decades!). Thank you, ladies.