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A message from Mrs Knox

We are well and truly into the rhythms of the new academic year with a week full of learning, trips and matches. A number of our pupil committees are now getting underway with the School Council, Sustainability and Charity Committees starting to plan their initiatives for the term. The extra-curricular clubs have started in earnest and the roller skating club looks like great fun! I run a German club on a Monday lunchtime and really enjoy sharing the language and culture in an enjoyable, relaxed setting. This is such a lovely time of the year – there is a sense of energy and positivity around the School. Year 7 also had a great time with a school tradition of Capture the Flag with Year 11 at lunchtime today. A huge thank you to our Class Reps and PADoK for making our new families feel so welcome. Monday, we have the School photographer joining us, so please could children look neat and tidy in the correct uniform. Have a lovely weekend.

Mrs Knox

Introducing our Heads of School

Our new Heads of School - Will B and Edie H - have started their first week in their roles with great confidence. On the first day they greeted the Pre-Prep, Prep and Seniors in their assemblies and today are helping to run a 'Capture the Flag' game with Year 7 at lunch. 

Will, who joined Duke of Kent in Year 7, is an allrounder, as at home on the football pitch, as he is in the English classroom and The Book Club. He said of his coming year as Head of School 'I'm excited and looking forward to all the opportunities and getting involved with the whole school community'.

Edie, who joined Duke of Kent in Year 3, has many strings to her bow, participating in productions, concerts and self teaching herself a Computer Science GCSE. She said of her upcoming year as Head of School 'I am very excited to get to know everyone and bring lots of positive changes to the school.'

We wish them every success this year!

Mr Southee
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GSC Macbeth Workshop

This week we were lucky enough to have the Guildford Shakespeare Company return to School. This time, they came to deliver an engaging GCSE workshop on Shakespeare's supernatural tragedy: 'Macbeth'. Year 11 pupils were amazing contributors and audience members; offering their ideas in many discussions, ranging from whether Lady Macbeth was a traditional Jacobean woman, to maturely discussing the effects of changing the scenes with subtle shifts from the director. Well done Year 11, and thank you to the GSC!

Mrs Southee
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Sayers Croft

On Friday, Year 7 spent the day at Sayers Croft. The walk there was an adventure in itself, as we navigated a closed road and a number of overgrown public footpaths. On arrival, we were warmly welcomed by the enthusiastic Sayers Croft team, who introduced us to the day’s activities. The morning began with Climbing and High Ropes, where pupils embraced the challenge of scaling the climbing wall and tackling a variety of obstacles. After a well-earned lunch, the afternoon brought new excitement with the Challenge Course and Axe Throwing. The pupils showed excellent communication and teamwork on the Challenge Course and gave each other plenty of encouragement during Axe Throwing. It was a thoroughly enjoyable day, and one that will no doubt remain a memorable highlight of their first year at school.

Mr Monk
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Each week I ask my colleagues if they have things they would like me to mention in the Bulletin, and this week's tally of suggestions must be an all-time record. 

Year 5 are studying Judaism in RS this term and looked at the life of Moses, whilst they began to learn the features of mountains and how to recognise them in Geography. Year 4's geographical studies are focusing on rivers this term, starting with an overview of the river's journey along its course from source to mouth and in Year 4's RS studies, they have begun to consider the complexities of family dynamics in the context of the story of Joseph and his less than brotherly siblings.

Children have loved their time in the DT and Art workshops this week, with Year 3 learning about sewing machines in preparation for them using one next lesson and Year 5 have been researching different types of bridges ahead of building their prototypes. Nursery children were also showing artistic flair, looking at sunflowers and making some beautiful collages. There was even time for some backing in Reception - apple muffins were on the menu after pupils had read 'The Little Red Hen' and looked at how flour is made. 

Finally, I must share my highlight of the week, which leads me to wonder if we may need to institute a new 'from the mouths of babes' section. During a duty in Pre-prep a colleague was talking to one of the children about narwhals, and asked her where in the sea we would find them. "The deep end", came the dead pan reply. I can't argue with that. Have a great weekend! 

Stars of the Week

Nursery: Nia H for setting a really good example to others and  having a great start to the term.

Immy K for having a brilliant and enthusiastic start to the term. Well done!

Reception: Rosie A for such a positive start in Reception, you are trying your best in everything!

Year 1: Oscar P for starting his new school with the best attitude.  He has been super keen to learn and has made a fantastic start.

Rory O'K for being super enthusiastic in Year One and already showing great initiative.

Year 2: Oliver A for approaching the new school year with a positive attitude and always smiling!

Mr Wright

It has been a busy and productive start to the term, and during this first full week, it has been wonderful to see pupils re-engaging with their learning. Afterschool activities are now in full swing, and it is great to see pupils making the most of the wide range of opportunities available to them.

Next Monday, we have individual, sibling and Year group photos taking place. Your support in ensuring that pupils arrive in their correct winter uniform would be greatly appreciated.

Finally, congratulations to the following pupils for reaching multiples of 25 Merit Points! They have been invited to attend the Celebration Snack Break, where they will receive a lunch fast pass and a stationery prize:
Ben B, Lauren B, Archie B, Matthew C, Ben G, Elfie G, Harrison H, Hubert S, Arthur S, Bea T-R, Jasmine W, Ruby W, Ben W, Oliver D, Indie K, Dante R-D, George R, Lewis S, Henry S, Adam T, Theo C, Willow D, Sascha H, Isabella N, Ben O, Ben R, Holly R, Tansy-Bella T, Alex W, Patrick W, Jude B, George C, Issy F, Dom K, Monty L, Charlie L, Lucy P, Henry R, Sam R, Hugo S, Hector W, Toby W.

A special congratulations to Heidi B, Will M, Josh W, Jay J and Myrtille M for surpassing 100 Merit Points and receiving their recognition badges, and to Ben W and Ethan K for reaching over 200 Merit Points and earning their recognition badge.

Finally a huge well done to Edie H for gaining over 400 Merit Points and gaining her gold badge!

Mr Wyllie

Pupils have completed their first full week back at school today and it will, no doubt, have been full of fun, learning, friendship, connections and reconnections, change and challenge.

The last of these two can feel inextricably linked. Accepting and facing change can be quite a challenge and not only to young people. Facing the new or unknown suddenly leaves us feeling unsure, deskilled and a little alone. This is particularly hard for those transitioning from Pre Prep to Prep or Prep to secondary, particularly if it is a completely new setting.

Meeting the challenge and being open to the new experiences and opportunities can be hugely rewarding, however. It is then we are able to surprise our own self concept of what our limitations may be and realise we are capable  of much more than we realise.

It may feel uncomfortable at first but self belief that we can approach with a flexible growth mindset means we are more likely to adapt.

Challenging ourselves to face the discomfort of making friends, getting to know new teachers and tackling more complex work, will reward us with new friends, great connections and renewed self belief.

For those that are still finding this a huge challenge, these short films may help.

Talking Mental Health (subtitled)

Moving Up! The transition to secondary school (SUBTITLED)

It is also ok to admit you are finding it hard and ask for help. Friends, parents and form tutors are all a great place to start and pupils are also able to drop into Open Door sessions in the Wellbeing Room if they would like to talk.

Monday–10:20-10:40 and 12:30-1:00

Thursday–10:00-10:20 and 1:00-1:30

Mrs Douglas

What Parents & Educators need to know about AI - enabled Scams

AI isn’t just transforming the way we learn and work, it’s also reshaping the tactics scammers use online. From generating convincing phishing emails to fabricating influencer videos, criminals are using AI to make their scams more convincing than ever. Young people, who often embrace new tech quickly, can be especially vulnerable. 

This guide highlights several AI-enabled dangers – including romance scams, deepfake audio and video impersonations, and fake job offers – and explains how to spot and report them. With clear tips for verifying content, thinking critically, and using trusted platforms, it’s essential reading for parents and educators to help young people stay one step ahead of the scammers.

Click the link to learn more about "AI - enabled Scams". 

Mr Monk
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We're only a week and a half into term, and already the cold bugs are circulating!  With that in mind, please can all pupils be reminded of the importance of regular and thorough hand washing and of coughing/sneezing into elbows to protect those around them.  Pupils who are feeling a little under the weather may still attend school if they feel up to it, as long as they do not have a temperature of 37.8 or higher.  Please can they arrive equipped with their own supply of tissues and throat lozenges if relevant.  They should also have a full named water bottle at school today; hydration is so important to support healthy immune systems!

Year 10 pupils have their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Expedition to look forward to next week.  The weather is looking unpredictable, but pupils should be prepared for cold and wet conditions with layers, decent waterproofs and a good sturdy pair of walking shoes/boots.  A reminder that foods brought on the expedition must not contain nuts.  Any pupil medications for staff administration should be delivered to Mrs Sarjant by Monday 15th September latest (in the original packaging with pharmacy label showing).  For those pupils carrying their own medication, please ensure Mrs Sarjant has a full list of their medications and that your child has completed a risk assessment with her.

Finally, a reminder email has been sent out this week regarding the flu immunisations available at school on October 17th to pupils from Reception to Year 11.  Please contact Mrs Sarjant if  you have any questions or concerns (csarjant@dokschool.org)

The School Nurses

PADoK News

Dear All Parents

Please note that we are still trying to sort out a day for DOK Singers.

Core Control is also on the move and from next week will now be on a Thursday morning at 08.30am, meet at Ness Hall (by Second hand uniform shop).  Again details below.

DOK Flyers have had there first match this week and we look forward to hearing how they got on.

PADoK  Bingo Night  Friday 10th October @ 19:30

Save the date, bookings will open next week

Join us for our first social event of the academic year – a fun-filled evening of Bingo for £12.50 per person.

Bring Your Own Food & Drink – make it a feast!
Share and Socialise – each year group can bring something to share between rounds.
Prizes and Surprises – lots of laughter and friendly competition guaranteed!

Whether you’re a seasoned player or a first-timer, come along for a relaxed night of numbers, nibbles, and plenty of fun.

We can’t wait to see you there!

PADoK Second Hand Uniform Shop

Opening dates should have now been uploaded to the calendar

Wednesday 15th October 15.00 - 16.00

Wednesday 5th November 15.00 - 16.00

Wednesday 3rd December, 15.00 to 16.00.

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

We are reading Intermezzo by Sally Rooney and we will meet to discuss this soon.  A date will be arranged soon.   

We meet once a term for a casual chat about the book.

Please do join in with book club if you enjoy reading, everyone is welcome.

Duke of Kent School Flyers – Netball training 

DoK Flyers will be meeting on Monday late afternoons from 17.30 to 18.30 and we are looking for new players to join in this term, while the weather allows.  Come along for lots of laughter, exercise and fun.  No experience necessary, everyone welcome!   Please do come along if you would like to play netball.

Duke of Kent School Singers

Calling all Singers Great & Small!

Timetable issues – will be in touch with a day & time soon.

The DoK Singers are looking for new singers to join them.  A welcoming, fun and relaxed session where we sing together.  You will have fun, your spirits will be lifted and you will start the rest of your day with a smile on your face. 

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

PADoK Core Control

Thursdays – 08.30 from next week

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.

If you have new fitness goals or want to build on what you are already doing? Why don’t you join in?  Julia is a physiotherapist who will help build your core strength and help with your fitness training.  

Please contact Julia direct to complete a medical form.

Julia Rowe (julia@therunningspecialists.com)

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.

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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.