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A message from Mrs Knox
Another busy week! Year 6 are having a wonderful time on their residential trip in Cobnor. Lots of exciting activities, early mornings and glorious sunshine! I am excited to hear their stories when they return later today. Year 10 have also done themselves proud during their interviews with the Senior Leadership Team over the last few weeks talking through their applications to become School leaders next year. They were confident, articulate and highly impressive. They will all be wonderful leaders of the School. Also, huge congratulations must go to the Year 11 pupils for maintaining composure and positivity throughout their GCSEs which finished this week. I know they are looking forward to their trip to Barcelona! Today, there were some wonderful performances during our Sports day. Well done to everyone and I look forward to acknowledging some spectacular sporting accomplishments at the Sports Dinner tonight.
Mrs Knox
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Year 9 Bronze DofE Training Day
 On a warm Wednesday morning Year 9 embarked on their DofE Practice Day. They spent the first part of the day learning about cardiopulmonary resuscitation (better known as CPR) under the care of Matron, Mrs Sarjant. 'Stayin' Alive' was of course the matching tune of choice. Suitably informed, and in long trousers to avoid nettles, brambles and ticks, groups set off at staggered starts on a circular route from and back to School. They had to follow a clockwise route of 10.5km heading west to Pitch Hill following the Greensand Way, before heading east across the Winterfold and Hurt Woods across scenery familiar to watchers of Jurassic Park where filming has taken place in the past. The steep climbs and descents do resemble the shape of a Dragon's back! Yet everyone who started successfully finished.
 There was some inevitable confusion within groups, and the odd short or long-cut, but eventually they all worked out their norths from their easts and returned to School. The 'teamwork worked', which had to happen in order to complete the trek as groups. They were all remarkably buoyant, I shall assume that was a result of their optimism and good company provided by accompanying staff, namely Mr Wyllie, Mrs Punter, Mr Allen, Mr Seeley and Mrs Tattan-Robb! All staff referred to their resilience, good humour and accompanying laughter & noise! Highlights (amongst many) included Ella's (previously unknown) ability to navigate, Jasper's leadership, Ben J's total organisation, Penny N's medical and group awareness, the noise generated by Group 1 ("ONWARDS!") and the AI images created by Mr Seeley's group. The pupils also each cooked (and survived) meals using the trangia camping stoves. The next 'fixture' will be the overnight Qualification Expedition on 19-20th Sep, so please set your calendars!
Mr Lodge
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An Evening of Original Works: A Celebration of Creativity
On Friday evening, Duke of Kent School came alive with artistic energy as students from Years 10 and 11 took centre stage for An Evening of Original Works. This inspiring showcase featured a stunning array of GCSE coursework from the English, Art, and Music departments, shining a spotlight on the school’s exceptional young talent.
Far more than a display of academic achievement, the evening celebrated the imagination, skill and hard work of our students across multiple disciplines. Visitors were treated to evocative poetry, thought-provoking short stories, innovative art and design pieces, and powerful musical performances—each one a reflection of individual voice and vision.
The event served as a vivid reminder that education at Duke of Kent School is about much more than exams. It is about nurturing creativity, confidence and expression—core values at the heart of our school community. Staff and families alike were moved by the passion on display and impressed by the professionalism with which students presented their work.
Mr Watson
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Year 5 Residential to the New Forest
 Last Wednesday, Year 5 set off to the New Forest, the minibus packed to bursting with sleeping bags, roll mats, and marshmallows ready for toasting. Spirits were high—and lifted even further when we arrived to see a row of gleaming bell tents glowing in the sunshine. After eagerly unpacking and settling into our new home, we headed off for our first adventure: canoeing. There were plenty of games on the water and even a broken oar—courtesy of Mr Hewitt! Despite a downpour the following day, no one's spirit was dampened. Everyone threw themselves into the activities with enthusiasm, from archery and high ropes to bushcraft and team games. The sun reappeared just in time for a much-anticipated campfire, where marshmallows were happily toasted and stories shared. After packing up on Friday morning, we finished our trip with an energetic session of Laser Quest, dashing through the woods in a series of fun, fast-paced games. Year 5 returned to school tired, a little muddy, and absolutely full of stories. They should all be incredibly proud of what they achieved—well done, Year 5!
Mrs Tuite
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Oxford University Conservationist
On Monday, we welcomed Trevor Balone, a wildlife conservationist from Botswana, to the School. Trevor is studying at Oxford University for 9 months, and began his visit with a fascinating assembly to Prep and Senior pupils about himself, Botswana and the crucial work he does there to monitor and protect carnivore populations and mitigate human-wildlife conflict with Leopard Ecology & Conservation. After a full-blown tour of the School with Alessandro S and Ben W in Year 8 (thank you, boys), Trevor spent the remainder of his day in lessons, observing in some and doing Q&As in others. With Year 9 Spanish, Year 6 French, Year 10 Biology, Year 2 Art and a spot of storytime in Reception, to name only a few, Trevor got to experience quite the breadth of ages and subjects, and he loved every minute - as did the children! Heading back to Guildford station, he could not have been more effusive in his praise of the pupils' politeness, enthusiasm and knowledge, and he asked me to pass on his thanks to everyone. A super start to Community Week, and we look forward to welcoming another student next year.
Mr Wright
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Careers Assembly and Business Studies Workshop From Business Leader Emma Mirrington
Duke of Kent School was delighted to welcome Emma Mirrington, Director of The Talent Labs, to deliver an inspiring careers assembly and workshop for Business Studies pupils. Emma, a seasoned business leader with extensive experience in talent development and innovation, shared her insights on the dynamic world of business and the importance of creativity in entrepreneurship.
During the careers assembly, Emma spoke passionately about her entrepreneurial journey and the ever-evolving business landscape, emphasising the value of adaptability, forward-thinking and seizing opportunity in today’s professional world. Her presentation not only provided practical advice but also encouraged students to think critically about their future career paths.
 The highlight of the visit was a workshop, where Business Studies pupils were divided into teams and tasked with designing an awards event. The challenge? To pitch their concept to a panel of “Dragons”, in the form of Mr Wiley, in a Dragons' Den-style presentation. Each team was asked to come up with innovative, contemporary, and exciting ideas for The Talent Lab's next awards ceremony. Ideas ranged from high-tech events to immersive "retro" experiences, showcasing the creative potential of the students.
The winning team was rewarded not with an investment in their company, but with the sweet prize of Fruit Pastels, much to the delight of the participants. This fun and engaging activity helped students hone their teamwork, presentation, and problem-solving skills, all while learning from one of the top business leaders in the field. It was an inspiring and memorable day for all involved! Emma was really impressed with all the groups' work and hinted that their ideas may pop up in The Talent Lab's 2026 awards - watch this space!
Mr Watson
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Year 2 Drama Workshop
 On Thursday, Year 2 leapt back in time as we welcomed Tanya from the Freshwater Theatre Company for a spectacular Great Fire of London drama workshop. With Tanya’s help, the past came alive and our imaginations turned into time machines! We stepped into 1665, a time when London was in the grip of the deadly plague - Elizabeth (Eliza) was one of many who went unnoticed, while King Charles II (Greg) received great attention. We greeted him with a grand, “Greetings, Your Majesty!”
We then met Thomas Farriner (Oli) and his daughter Hannah (Gracie), whose Pudding Lane bakery became the unlikely spark of the fire. We explored how it spread so quickly -tightly packed wooden houses, dry conditions, and not enough water. Soon, we became the city: buildings crackling, flames rising and smoke everywhere. Samuel Pepys (Ali) documented the unfolding events while children shared vivid senses: “I could hear screaming, shouting people as loud as a cannon,” said Mattie. “I could smell burning, smoky ash,” said Aoife. “I could see thousands of burning houses,” added Owen.
 We discovered how even mighty St Paul’s Cathedral, surrounded by scaffolding, was lost to the flames. Finally, Lord Bloodworth (Alex) brought the news: the fire was over, the plague had gone, and London could begin again. Year 2 shared brilliant ideas to rebuild the city safely - with bricks, spaced-out houses, and even a fire brigade! It was a morning of drama, imagination and reflection - and we ended the day feeling grateful for the safety and comfort of life today.
Miss Munro
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Year 2 Children's Festival
 On Tuesday, 6 Year 2 pupils headed to Greenfield School in Woking for their annual Children's Festival based around the UN Sustainability goals. This year the focus was Goal 15 'Life on Land' and Biodiversity. Our pupils had the opportunity to share a poster they made featuring all the biodiversity we have found around our school site, including buzzards, swifts, spiders and foxgloves, and listened carefully as other schools shared their ideas about biodiversity, through poems and even dance!
The pupils had the opportunity to make their own bird seed feeders, a mini beast of their choice from clay and go on a minibeast hunt round the Greenfield School site.
Thank you to Greenfield School for the invitation, and the children for a wonderful afternoon with a year group I don't normally get to spend time with!
Mrs Wilkinson
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Pupil and Parent Golf Day at Hoebridge
Last Saturday saw a combination of 24 parents / relations and children attend a 'Parent and Child' golf morning at Hoebridge Golf Club. After sausage and bacon rolls, coffee and applying sunscreen, we headed out to the first tee of the Par 3 Maybury Course. It was fantastic to see a mix of ages from Year 6 to Year 11 and a mix of abilities too! An amazing time was had by all and there was some incredible golf played by children and families alike. Jack D went round in 4+ and Mr Hadfield took both the closest to pins (with the Carter boys not far behind!). There was a fitting end on the 18 in the last group with Mr Guest hitting his tee shot to within 2 feet. Many thanks to all that came and we are looking forward to next year's event.
Mr Southee
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Year 5 House Tennis
On Wednesday afternoon, Year 5 took part in their house tennis tournament. Despite the warm, sunny weather, the players gave every game their all! We saw some thrilling matches, with most games decided by just 2 points. After tallying the scores, Peregrine and Buzzard were joint winners with 22 points each, while Kestrel and Hawk shared 2nd place with 14 points each. It was a fantastic afternoon of tennis, with star performers from each house earning a Mrs Monk says brilliant work sticker their enthusiasm, effort, and skill: Norah C (Buzzard), Georgia C (Kestrel), Max L (Hawk), and Charlotte L (Peregrine). Well done to all and bring on Wimbledon!
Mrs Monk
ISA National Athletics Finals Success!
Congratulations to our outstanding athletes for their performances in the ISA National Athletics Finals at the Alexander Stadium in Birmingham. This is a wonderful stadium which recently hosted the Commonwealth Games and the Duke of Kent School athletes were truly inspired and motivated to do the very best. Amelie C was awarded two golds for her amazing performances in the Para Shot Put and 100m race. Hubert S took gold in the Year 7 High Jump and Alfie H won gold in the Year 7 Shot Put (breaking a 21 year old ISA record in the process) and then moved straight over to the track to take gold in the Year 7 100m. We could not be prouder of all three athletes who have worked so hard to develop their techniques and this effort was truly rewarded.
Mr Herbert
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 As if it wasn't hot enough already this week, Year 2 revisited the Great Fire of London with the help of the Freshwater Theatre Company whose workshop brought the events of the time truly to life. It seemed sensible, for balance, to have a few watery themes in the department too, to help everyone cool off: Nursery were on the open seas role-playing pirates, Reception used the ocean as inspiration for some imaginative writing and all of Pre-prep went truly super-soaker-crazy on Friday afternoon with some much needed water games in the Pre-prep playground. Squeals of delight are still ringing in my ears! Well done, also, to those Year 2s who represented the School at Greenfield School's Biodiversity Festival.
 Whilst Year 6 have been enjoying the super weather with lake based residential activities at Cobnor, Year 5 took advantage of the sunshine to help their investigations of light and shadow - explaining the numerous chalk body outlines along the path leading up to Pre-prep. Nothing more sinister than that, I assure you! Year 5 also enjoyed a treasure hunt (in the shade around The Burrow) finding artefacts, plotting coordinates and planning a route on their map to escape (which they, thankfully, all did). The Year 3s have been busy examining sources of evidence in their study of Boudicca in Topic. We ended the week watching the thrilling Senior relay races - inspiration and motivation, if any were needed, for their own Sports Day next week. See you there!
Values Certificates: Darcey M for Effort; Tildy T, Alaska B and Elsa Ho for Respect
Reading Certificates: Charlie Sw (Silver) and Siena N, Maddie C and Ivy B (Gold)
Mr Wright
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 With the arrival of warm summer weather, windows have been opened, fans are whirring, and many lessons have moved outdoors into the shade. Year 11 have now completed their exams, and the sense of relief has been clear on their faces as they have returned to hand in their books. Huge congratulations to them for their consistent dedication and hard work throughout the long exam season. Many are now eagerly anticipating their celebratory trip to Barcelona tomorrow. With hot weather forecasted, we are all looking forward to a week of cultural exploration, informative visits and plenty of sunscreen!
Community Week has once again proven to be a truly rewarding experience. It has been wonderful to see so many pupils volunteering across various local organisations, enthusiastically giving back to their community. A big well done to all who took part and made a positive difference.
 Looking ahead, next week promises even more excitement within the senior school. We are eagerly anticipating the creative talents of Year 8 and 9 as they bring Oliver Twist to life on stage. Year 10 will be heading off on their residential trip on Wednesday, always a much loved highlight of the year. And to round it all off, we will be treated to a showcase of musical talent at the Summer Concert on Saturday, 28th June.
Pupils continue to demonstrate outstanding commitment to their learning and have been recognised with merit awards. Congratulations to everyone who reached the milestone of 25 merit points this week:
Knysna G, Noah J, Lockie B, George S, Henry W, Ben J, William B, Oliver C, Jamie C, Chloe K, Mercy M, Jack M, Heath P.
A special mention goes to Ben B and Mac Y who have all surpassed 100 merit points and have been awarded their well-deserved badges.
An extra special mention to Alessandro S for surpassing 300 merit points and gaining his recognition badge. Well done everyone!
Mr Wyllie
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Performing Arts Events
We have a hugely busy half term ahead in the Performing Arts Department, so please check the dates below for all the wonderful events that are taking place.
Monday 23rd June – 4.40 - 6.30 pm: Oliver Twist dress rehearsal.
Wednesday 25th June – 7.30pm: Oliver Twist performance
Thursday 26th June – 7.30pm: Oliver Twist performance
Saturday 28th June – 7pm: School Summer Concert – for Prep and Senior pupils involved in the many ensembles and groups in the School; this year held outside in the top car park
Tuesday 1st July – 6.30pm: Year 11 Leavers' Concert
Wednesday 2nd July – 2.30pm: Pre-prep Dance Show performance to Nursery and Reception parents
Thursday 3rd July – 2.30pm: Pre-prep Dance Show performance to Year 1 and 2 parents
Mr Rye
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JUNE COMPETITION: Big Bug Hunt
This month Mrs Wilkinson is challenging you to count the bugs in your garden to win sustainability house points.
Choose a day and count the number of bugs you can find in your garden.
How many different types can you find?
Take a photo of the most interesting one.
Email your photos and tally count to Mrs Wilkinson (jwilkinson@dokschool.org)
Good Luck!
New competition coming in July!
Mrs Wilkinson
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 We are all very aware of the importance of looking after our physical health when we have experienced temperatures as high and constant as we have over this past week (and look set to continue for at least the next few days).
It is worth recognising that the heat can also have quite a detrimental effect on our mental wellbeing and emotional regulation, particularly in children and young people.
High temperatures can negatively impact children's emotional regulation by triggering the body's stress response system, potentially disrupting the development of emotional regulation circuits.
The heat often leads to disrupted and poor sleep which in turn can make managing one’s emotional temperature much more difficult. It is much more likely when children are feeling the heat, they are also bothered - by tiredness, frustration, stress, sadness, anger or depression. All of these big emotions which are usually regulated suddenly sit very close to the surface and manifest much more easily.
Children and young people’s brains can be more vulnerable to rising temperatures and it can therefore also affect cognitive function making concentration and focus more difficult.
It is no coincidence that many of our emotional descriptor idioms are also linked to the idea of heat - ‘boiling anger’, ‘hot and bothered’, ‘hot mess’, ‘hot-headed’ indicating that heat in the body is also linked to feeling emotionally disregulated.
It is important, when we have the rare appearances of persistent sun, to enjoy the sun safely (see the nurses’ advice). And to also, therefore, consider the emotional effects as well as the physical and be kind to ourselves and others.
Wear the hat, carry around the cool spray and eat the ice lollies - have a lovely weekend!
Mrs Douglas
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What Parents & Educators Need to Know About Emojis
Emojis aren’t just digital decoration - they’re often used as a coded language that young people use to express identity, humour and emotion. Without context, they can easily be misunderstood by adults, leading to confusion or missed signals. Some emojis may even mask risky behaviours or emotional struggles.
This guide helps decode this ever-evolving language, empowering parents and educators to have more open, informed conversations with the children in their care. It also highlights the meaning of some common emojis and offers practical tips for staying clued-in without snooping or suspicion.
Click the link to learn more about "Know About Emojis".
Use of mobile phones/Chromebooks on school buses:
With many children bringing mobile phones and Chromebooks on school buses, it's a good opportunity to remind them about being considerate passengers. While these devices can be useful for staying connected or for schoolwork, we kindly ask that you encourage your child to be mindful of their surroundings and other pupils.
Our school buses are shared spaces. A gentle reminder to keep device volume low, use appropriate language, and be aware that what might be entertaining to them could be disruptive or even upsetting to a younger child, can make a big difference.
A little thought from everyone helps ensure a pleasant and safe journey for all our pupils. Thank you for your support with this!
***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
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We wish Year 11 pupils (and accompanying staff!) a happy time in Barcelona to celebrate the end of exams (departing early tomorrow - set your alarm clocks!). Please remember to pack all your medications and plenty of sun cream!
One more residential trip still to go; Year 10 pupils are off to Dorset next Wednesday. Please can pupils remember to take travel nausea medication and hay fever medication at home before school on Wednesday if needed, and remember to pack your medications (if self-medicating).
The heat continues next week (though maybe not quite so fierce). With fixtures on Tuesday and Wednesday, and Pre Prep and Prep Sports Day on Thursday, pupils will be spending plenty of time outdoors. As such they should be suitably prepared with sun cream, sun hats and water bottles. Please also remember to check for ticks. Insect bites are also causing some discomfort - antihistamine can be quite helpful to soothe any itching.
Finally, a reminder that an email has gone out to parents with pupils in Years Reception to Year 11 (September 2025) with regards to flu immunisations at school on October 17th. Please check your junk mail if you have not received it. Pupils in Nursery in September will need to access the Nasal Flu Immunisation via their GP as usual.
The School Nurses
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PADoK News
We are looking forward to seeing those attending tomorrow night. Be ready to party!!! Just some basic housekeeping below:
No parking at the top of the site as the event is taking place in the top car park and the PA Hall.
Please note there is one welcome drink and a portion of tacos from the food stall per ticket. Pay bar, no cash please. Just a reminder this is NOT a Bring Your Own event.
Food will be served from 7.30pm to 9.00pm
*Viva La Fiesta* PADoK Summer Event
Hola Amigos!
What a great night we had at Viva La Fiesta on Saturday night. The PADoK team created a colourful Mexican feel in and around the PA Hall with plenty of sombreros and moustaches to go round!
There were margaritas a plenty that really did pack a punch!!! A fully stocked bar to meet everyone’s needs and to help wash down delicious tacos followed by a sweet treat.
The Accidentals, as always, brought the PA Hall alive with incredible music. They started off with some Mexican tunes to fit with our theme and later filled the dance floor with some firm favourites.
Dazzling dancing, muchos moustaches and soleada sombreros! Fabulous fun had by all.
Thank you to those who came and supported the event. Thanks must go to the PADoK Viva team for all your hard work to ensure the event was a success.
PADoK Second Hand Uniform Shop
Open Wednesday 25th June 3pm to 4pm
We are always looking for donations of good quality second hand uniform and PE kit. This can be put in the box outside the shop at any time. Thank you in advance.
PADoK Clubs:
PADoK Book Club – New Book Title
Something tells me our next book (2nd Irish writer in a row), Intermezzo by Sally Rooney will not garner the same views.
Take your time and enjoy it over the summer break and we will meet to discuss early-ish in the autumn term.
And for those interested in the Timetravelling, Historical, Spy/Thriller, Romance book I mentioned, it was called "The Ministry of Time" by Kaliane Bradley
Have a lovely summer and feel free to post some book recommendations or absolutely no-nos on here
Please do join in with book club if you enjoy reading, everyone is welcome.
PADoK Flyers Netball Team took on Pennthorpe
Wow! What a close game the DoK Flyers had against Pennthorpe on Thursday night. There was a great atmosphere on Thursday night when the team of 8 (Flyers) took on Pennthorpe Mums & PE teachers!
The game was incredibly close, final score ended up at 15-14 to Pennthorpe. After drawing it back to even after the second quarter there Flyers continued to pull their own weight with Pennthorpe scoring the final goal in the last 10 seconds!
Excellent play ladies and we already can’t wait until the next one!
Duke of Kent School Singers
Thursday at 08:20 – 09:00am - Calling all Singers Great & Small!
A rather warm choir session this week!. We had a warm up before working on ironing out a few areas of the song. By the final run through it was sounding great. Thank you to Mr Rye and Cathy Williams for all you do for this group.
Do please feel free to come along any time next term and join in… you’re so warmly welcome as a one off drop in or if you’re interested in coming more regularly. Every Thursday morning from 8:30-9am in the Meeting Room off Old Hall.
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 From this term there will be a £5 fee for each week.
Do you have new fitness goals for the summer 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.
Please contact Julia direct to complete a medical form.
Julia Rowe (julia@therunningspecialists.com)
Mrs Phillips and Mrs Horsburgh
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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.
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School social media
At Duke of Kent School we have three social media platforms; Instagram (dukeofkentschool), Facebook (Duke of Kent School) and X (@DoKSchool). 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.
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Duke of Kent School – Summer Sports Camp 
Camp Times: 8.30am – 4.30pm
Location: Duke of Kent School
Week 1: Monday 18th – Friday 22nd August
Activities include:
Costs:
To book a place, email Graham Herbert at:
