Remembrance Day

On Monday 11th November we held our annual Remembrance commemoration event. Mr Lodge led an assembly with the theme of how Empire/Commonwealth countries such as India, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and South African provided vital soldiers and commanders in the fight against the Central Powers in WW1. Annabelle T and Oliver T read their own story and a poem respectively. Recollecting her experiences in Australia, Mrs Knox spoke about the famous ANZACs (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps) and associated 'mateship'. Mrs Honey eloquently presented a Canadian WW1 poem while Mr Southee referenced the suffering of the Newfoundlanders and their homes which remain empty to this day. 

Mr Lodge's address included his thoughts on the meaning of Remembrance and included his own recent pictures of the gravestones of Private John Parr (the first of 1,115,000 British and Empire soldiers to be killed in WW1) and Private George Pike (a Canadian, killed on the last day of the war) which are in the same graveyard in Mons, Belgium. He also used slides prepared by Year 9 pupils who are learning about WW1 in preparation for their visit to the Belgian and French battlefield in April 2025. The Act of Remembrance by the flagpole was attended by the whole School. Overseen by Mr Seeley, Mrs Knox read from Laurence Binyon's famous poem 'For the Fallen' (including 'We will remember them'), selected pupils laid wreaths and the Last Post and Reveille, separated by the 2 minute silence, was superbly played by Eddie C on his cornet.

Mr Lodge

Anti-Bullying Week

This week, alongside many other schools in the country, we have been encouraging pupils to come together to have discussions about what it means to disagree respectfully, how to avoid resorting to bullying, and how we can all choose to lead by example. Anti-bullying lessons have been taught and assemblies given, all centring around how demonstrating respect for others, self-respect and being respected are interlinked elements for fostering healthy and positive relationships. 

It was great to see so many pupils and staff wearing odd socks on Tuesday to celebrate individuality and bring attention to Anti-Bullying Week. All of the pupils have been encouraged to be upstanders and not bystanders if they see conduct which is not appropriate and all pupils have been given guidance on how they can report any disrespectful behaviour. 

Mr Herbert

The Battle of Hastings

On Tuesday, the South Bank was transformed into 1066 as 6GN clashed with 6SG in an epic Battle of Hastings re-enactment. Shields clashed, battle cries rang out, and Harold’s army held firm—until William’s cavalry (aided by a cunning "retreat") turned the tide. History repeated itself as the Normans triumphed again this year! The creative costumes and spirited performances from both sides made it a breaktime to remember. Well done to all Year 6 pupils for bringing history to life so brilliantly!

To view the battle, click below:

Battle of Hastings Y6

Mr Seeley 

4R Assembly

The Year 4's gave an Assembly about the most precious of resources - Water. They used knowledge from their topic lessons to explain the Water Cycle as well as suggest ways in which we can all save water at home. It was informative and entertaining and they should be really proud of themselves. 

Mrs Rigby

After learning about the Ancient Greeks' love of theatre this week, Year 3 made their own masks of Medusa. Looking furtherEast, Year 5 have been thinking about the Israelites fleeing from Egypt in RS lessons, discussing the challenges this would have posed, leaving their homes to find a whole new country. Reception continued their own 'round the world' studies of far off places, and even took turns to pilot the plane! Closer to home, Year 2 were looking at habitats, including our own wildlife garden, in Science - the most exciting discovery being an earwig! Their findings then inspired Maths lessons focusing on pictograms. Prep School, too, were thinking of nature in assembly this week - not only did Mr Gritton share with us some of the fantastic footage taken by camera traps in our wildlife garden (squirrels, toads, magpies, foxes, badgers and deer amongst others!), but we also heard from Evie B and Florence A, who gave a superb talk on 'endangered animals', mentioning some of the most at risk, like Javan rhinos and Amur leopards - well done, girls!

In assembly, I also thanked the children for being such warm hosts to our visiting pupils last week, but am equally grateful to them for observing the two minutes' silence by the flagpole so respectfully on Monday. Year 5 and 6 pupils also enjoyed a live online lesson from the Blue Cross (https://www.bluecross.org.uk/) with many schools from all over the UK, remembering the contribution of animals in WWII. Lastly, it has been lovely to see so many parents in School this week, either for House matches, the swimming gala, Parents' Evening, the Windows into Learning, or 4R's super assembly on 'water'. I hope you have enjoyed these events, and are now looking forward to the weekend!

Rising Readers: Harry R (3N), Elsa H (4R), Daisy W (4G), Barnes P (5T), Florence A (6G) & Herb M (6N)

Aloud & Proud Readers: Mila-Rose S and Jenson Bo

Values Certificates: Effort for George F and Siena N

Mr Wright

Stars of the Week

Nursery: Nia H for being so resilient and enthusiastic throughout the day.

Reception: Cooper C for great enthusiasm and effort at swimming and games. You listen to the instructions and always try your best.

Rory O'K for calmly explaining the role-play rules to others when using the classroom aeroplane.

Year 1: Paul E for his determination with his reading. Paul works super hard to improve his skills. Well done!

Zara J for her kind nature in the classroom, she is so helpful and super enthusiastic.

Year 2: Alex W for fantastic work in English this week - you wrote a superbly descriptive paragraph about the blue shark!

Mrs Ragless

Netball: U14/15 v. Moon Hall School

On Tuesday, the U14/15 Netball Team travelled away to Moon Hall School. It was a rather chilly and blustery afternoon and the opposition were strong from the outset. Duke of Kent School fought hard to keep possession in the first quarter and Chloe K and Ella M made some good interceptions at GK and WD. Lucy P and Molly F were both good at finding space when the game became congested and despite a good goal from Edith S and four from Tansy T, Moon Hall shot extremely well and had a five goal lead by half time. The team had an excellent third quarter, Sascha H and Holly R defended brilliantly in the circle and made it very difficult for Moon Hall's shooters by marking tightly; there was only a three goal difference between what both teams scored in this quarter. In spite of a loss at full time, Penny N deserves a special mention for her dynamic performance both in attack and defence and well done to Poppy F for being voted best attacking player of the game.

Mrs Dann

Girls' Hockey: U12/13 A v. Downsend

The U12/13 A Hockey Team played some quality hockey at their match on Wednesday away against Downsend School. Unfortunately, the team went two goals down early on but they held a lot of the possession. Halle S controlled the game well at CM making many well timed passes to Norah H at RM who kept skillfully running the ball into the circle driving along the back line but the final shot at goal was often saved by a very strong Downsend keeper. Lola C's movement up front was excellent, and she displayed great vision when passing into the circle. Jasmine W and Lauren B had plenty to do in defence, they were a cohesive unit, adapting their positioning well to the play and putting in some fearless tackles. Charlotte C's debut in goal went very well; she made some good saves and exuded a calm presence from the back. Holly B worked tirelessly at LM often winning loose balls and was close to scoring on a number of occasions. In the third quarter, Norah H scored a well deserved goal which Duke of Kent School thoroughly deserved and, despite finishing one goal behind their opposition, they should be very proud of their overall performance. 

Mrs Dann

Girls' Hockey: U12/13 B v. Downsend

On Wednesday afternoon, the U12/13 B girls' hockey team travelled to Downsend for one of their final hockey matches of the term. Downsend School were caught a little by surprise in the first quarter as Duke of Kent School linked up brilliantly to go 2-0 in the first quarter. Bea T-R had a brilliant game in centre midfield and made some fantastic passes out to Ruby W on the right wing. Meanwhile Knysna G made some great interceptions on the left hand side and fed some cracking balls into Elfie G in the D! The Downsend goalie was kept very busy, making save after save and the pressure continued to build! Meanwhile, our defenders, Millie W, Penny A and Amelie C, were cutting out most of Downsend's opportunities and managing to push forwards to help the attack. After three quarters, the team were 3-2 up so it was all to play for. After a quick team talk with discussions of passing across the D and having players on the penalty spot and on the post in an attempt to change the angle and make it harder for their epic keeper! Wonderfully, Elfie G, Bea T-R and Ruby W executed the plan to perfection and managed to score a flurry of goals in the final quarter to consolidate the win. A shout out to Heidi B for taking on the challenge of being in goal! Also, well done to Millie W for being awarded player of the game. A huge well done to the team for an epic win! 

Mrs Monk

Netball: Year 3 v. Moon Hall School

On Thursday afternoon, the Year 3 girls welcomed Moon Hall School to our courts for a netball match. The Year 3s were split into light blue and dark blue and rotated each quarter. It was a very exciting game with end to end play from both teams. The girls got to experience playing in a range of positions and really improved as the match went on. Duke of Kent School scored early on with a great goal from Olivia H. Then, we had a flurry of 2 goals in one quarter as Siena de P-L and Nola S both scored some crackers! Moon Hall School fought back and scored two goals making the final score 3-2 to Duke of Kent School. Well done to Darcey M and Maddie C for showing great determination when defending! Great work team! 

Mrs Monk

House Swimming Galas

Congratulations to all who participated in the House Swimming on Monday afternoon. The afternoon started with Year 7 & 8 and finished with the Prep School in the last lessons of the day. The atmosphere in both events was electric and all of the swimmers coped brilliantly with the competition and the loudness of the crowd. Everyone gave their absolute best in an attempt to gain points for their house. Congratulations to Peregrine who finished on top and well done to Layla B, Sonny C, Alfie H and Bea T-R for winning the best swimmer awards on the day.

Mr Herbert

Football: U8/9 Lions vs Frensham Heights

Duke of Kent School hosted Frensham Heights this Thursday for a football match. We got off to a flyer with 2 quick goals after some lovely build up play from the whole team. This positive play continued with everyone in the team getting stuck in and showing confidence on the ball. In the second half Duke of Kent School were shooting uphill and found it a bit tougher but this did not stop their positivity. Well done to all the pupils involved as everyone had a great time and it was great to get a win. 

Mr Green

Year 5 and 6 House Football

It was absolutely fabulous to see such determination, skill, resilience and leadership on show in the Year 5 and 6 Mixed House Football. The progress the pupils have made has been very encouraging and the real sense of togetherness and teamwork was truly evident. Congratulations to Peregrine who came out as victors on this occasion.

Mr Herbert

Boys' Football: U16 v. St Edmund's

This was a fantastic game and one that all of the Duke of Kent School players should be extremely proud of their performance and behavior. The standard of football was very high and it was great to see each individual play with such confidence and determination. Duke of Kent School opened the scoring with a goal from Tom B. They then doubled their lead with a strike from Charlie P following an amazing run by Isaac P. St Edmund's came back strongly in the second half scoring three goals. Duke of Kent School had numerous opportunities to equalise and perhaps win the game. Charlie P brought the scores back to 3-3 just before the final whistle was blown. Well done to all who played!

Mr Herbert

What Parents & Educators Need to Know about Fortnite

Over the years, Fortnite has become a household name in the gaming community. It was one of the first titles in the ‘battle royale’ subgenre, where players are thrown into a chaotic free-for-all on a sprawling map and fight until only one remains. Its cartoonish presentation and satisfying gameplay loop make it a potentially attractive choice for young players.

However, it’s important to remember that online safety risks are always present - especially in multiplayer games - and Fortnite is no exception. This free guide, put together with expert input, tells you all you need to know about the safety concerns of this popular title and offers advice on how to protect children and young people as they enjoy the game.

Click the link for more information: "What Parents & Educators Need to Know about Fortnite".

***Also, Internet Matters is a great website that can help you deal with online issues, give you advice for different age groups, and give you step-by-step guides for setting controls for various devices.***

Mr Boden

This week I was delighted to visit Year 1 and introduce them to their very own worry monster. Some of the class were familiar with worry monsters and we all got to learn more from Hetty Fluster, the main character in our story, about all the different kinds of worry monsters. We learnt their names, saw what they looked like AND what they like to eat - human worries!

We talked about some of the things that worry them and the different things we can do to help us when we worry, such as: exercise; talking to parents, teachers or friends; playing; eating something nice; breathing slowly or reading a book.

Year 1 were delighted to learn that they can put any worries they may have on a piece of paper and feed them to their class worry monster. All pupils suggested what they would like their worry monster’s name to be and Miss Walpole, the worry monster and I, have settled on the suggestion of Tim. 

I also had my final training session with the Year 9 Peer Mentors this week when we focused on how they can set SMART targets with their Year 7 mentees. Mentors and Mentees will officially meet next Monday during form time for their first session together.

Yesterday, the Year 9 mentors also visited Seaford College and attended their Young Leaders Conference, accompanied by Miss Allsop and myself. They represented School brilliantly, presenting to delegates the structure of our peer mentoring program and taking part in mixed school groups to discuss strategy and share ideas in order to learn from others’ practice.

I have been incredibly proud of their enthusiasm in training and their eagerness to support some of the younger members of our school community. I am really looking forward to seeing the relationships develop between themselves and their mentees.

Mrs Douglas

A reminder that the School Immunisations Nurses will return to School on the morning of Friday 6th December to administer the Nasal Flu immunisation to pupils with consent who were absent on 11th October.  If you would like your child to have the immunisation and have not yet completed a consent, the electronic consent portal is now open until 4pm on Monday 2nd December (see the email sent earlier this term).

Please can all pupils who carry a blue ventolin/salbutamol inhaler for asthma check that you still have your inhaler with you (pupils are encouraged to carry an inhaler at all times).  We have had three inhalers handed in so far this year, which remain unclaimed.  Please ensure all inhalers are named on the dispenser device as well as the medication barrel, so we can return lost items to the right owner.

Finally, coughs and colds are on the increase.  Please can pupils bring their own supply of lozenges and tissues to school and perform regular hand hygiene for infection control purposes. Pupils with a temperature of 37.8 or higher are asked to kindly stay at home.  Thank you.

The School Nurses

PADoK News

Please note that the Bags2School collection is on Monday 18th November.  Bags have been sent home so please check your children's School bags.  All bags to be brought in on Monday 18th at drop off, PADoK Reps will be there to take them from you.  Can we ask that you check what they can and more importantly what they can't accept.  Many thanks.

We are very much looking forward to seeing you all tonight for……

PARADOX PARLOURS ESCAPE ROOMS - LICENCE TO DECODE

Friday 15^th November 7.45pm – 10pm in the PA Hall

Cocktail bar serving cocktails, a mocktail and Gin/Vodka & Tonic, card only) or BYO drinks and nibbles (and glassware)

Christmas Hamper Collection

Tuesday 19^th, Wednesday 20^th and  Thursday 21^st November

Our wonderful PADoK elves will be greeting you all next week on the 19th, 20th & 21st November in the morning at drop off.

Please help us make this the best Christmas raffle yet!!!

Donations can include alcohol, edible gifts, chocolate, bubble baths, toys, games, makeup, candles or any unwanted good quality gifts.  Please can we ask that all items are in date and unused!! 

Thank you in advance for all your continued support.

FYI:  With your generous donations we will make up some beautiful hampers.  They will be raffled to all the School community, tickets will go on sale soon.  Some of the money raised in past raffles have been donated to the Cranleigh Food Bank and two local infant schools.

PADOK Christmas Hamper Team

PADoK Clubs:

PADoK Walk

We enjoyed a lovely walk around Pitch Hill on Tuesday morning.  Although few in number we still managed to attempt to put the world to rights!!!

Duke of Kent Flyers – Netball training 

Monday at 5:30 – 6:30pm

The DoK Flyers meet on the Netball courts on the Front Pitch by the School drive twice a week.  Do come along if you would like to start playing – new players or beginners are always welcome. 

Duke of Kent School Singers

Thursday at 08:20 – 09:00am

What a beautiful, crisp, sunny morning for a warm cup of tea and some singing! Thank you to all who came along today. We enjoyed 40 minutes of warm ups, singing Eliza Jane with an American accent (ask your children!) and some great work on our harmonies in the Mamas & Papas, ‘California Dreamin’. Getting Christmas Concert ready for those who have a performance in them! We have lots who like to work towards singing for an audience and many others who come along each week to get the benefits of singing without the stress of a performance. All are welcome. So look forward to seeing whoever can make it next week. A huge thank you to Mr Rye as always for his enthusiasm and patience. I’m sure he loves it as much as we do! 

Any queries or to express an interest please don’t hesitate to drop me a note. Hope to see some new faces next week!

Email: rhodricathy@sky.com

Important Note: please always park at the bottom of the site and walk up to Old Hall.

PADoK Core Control

Strengthen your body, improve your health with our Physio-Led Stability Group. Friday morning at 08.30 in Ness Hall

Do you have new fitness goals or want to build on what you are already doing?  Julia is a physio who will help build your core strength and help your fitness training.  We would love to see you on a Friday morning 08:30-09:00 for a quick weekly input r ee(little and often is the key to building long term goals!) 

Please contact Julia direct to complete a medical form.

Julia Rowe (julia@therunningspecialists.com 

PADoK Book Club – Thursday 21^st November 8pm Old Hall

Do come and join us for our PADoK Book Club on Thursday 21^st November.  We will be discussing our book choice for the Autumn Term “You are Here” by David Nichols, of One Day fame.   Please do come along even if you haven’t read the book but are interested in joining our book club.  A relaxed and welcoming club.

Mrs Phillips and Mrs Horsburgh

Senior School optional hoodie

The Senior School hoodies have been redesigned by members of the School Council and the finished product can be seen below. They have done a fantastic job at putting this design together and now finally getting to see the finished product.

This new hoodie is available from Stevenson's on their website: https://www.stevensons.co.uk/.  There is also the option to have your child's initials printed onto the front of the hoodie for a slight additional cost, something we would advise, to avoid mixing up tops with other pupils. This hoodie is not an essential item of School uniform, so there is no expectation for pupils to have it.

If you wish to see the sample, please pop into the Main Office and have a look.

School social media

At Duke of Kent School we have three social media platforms; Instagram (dukeofkentschool), X (@DoKSchool) and Facebook (Duke of Kent School). All of our social media accounts are public.

We recommend following all three accounts to receive push notifications with news, updates, educational articles, interactions with other schools, communities and public figures.