Year 1 Trip to Arundel Castle

Year 1 had a fantastic day at Arundel Castle to kick-start our Knights and Castles topic. In the Education Room, the children learnt why Arundel was chosen as the site for a castle, its position by the sea and on top of a hill made it strong and easy to defend. Ali, our guide, explained how the motte and moat were formed, with the keep standing proudly on top.

The children particularly enjoyed handling medieval weapons. Bobby tried a longbow, Cooper held a sword, Dixie had a go with a wooden hammer, and Jakey held an axe. Emilia even got to “ride” a wooden horse, while Athena proudly carried the flag. Later, Athena, Fliss, Angus, Dixie, Oscar and Theo all discovered just how heavy chain mail was!

Highlights of the castle tour included visiting the Baron’s Hall, a grand space used for feasts and important gatherings and climbing up to the Keep, where Angus impressed Ali by spotting the bread oven. Bobby was especially excited to see the castle’s portcullis, and the children also peered through arrow slits and discovered hidden spaces inside the castle walls.

The bravest moment came when everyone stepped into the oubliette (the dungeon!), which was both impressive and a little scary. The day ended in the gardens, where the children met Thomas the terrapin, the Duke of Norfolk’s pet, and marvelled at the magical floating crown.

It was a brilliant day, full of discovery, and the children came back buzzing with enthusiasm for their new topic.

Miss Walpole

Reception Trip to the Weald and Downland Living Museum

On Thursday 18th September, Reception enjoyed a wonderful day out at the Weald and Downland Living Museum in Singleton. As part of our work on traditional tales and exploring how communities lived in the past, this visit was the perfect opportunity to bring our learning to life.

After meeting our education officer, Sheila, who led a special workshop based on one of our favourite stories: The Little Red Hen. Together, we acted out the tale step by step—planting seeds, watering, watching the wheat grow, harvesting with a scythe, taking the grain to the miller, grinding flour, baking bread, and finally, tasting it! Each child even brought home a piece of bread made with flour ground at the museum’s watermill. Jude summed it up perfectly: “It’s just… delicious!”

We were fascinated to see the granary built on “mushroom” stilts to keep out greedy rats. The watermill itself was awe-inspiring as water cascaded over the great wheel. Inside, the miller demonstrated the hand-turned quern, and we even ground our own flour. To our delight, one of the millers was a Duke of Kent alumnus, and he shared some interesting stories about his school days.

In the Bakehouse, we discovered how bread was baked in the past. Because bread didn’t stay fresh for long, families would toast it or make bread and butter pudding. The oven was a real surprise—it looked tiny on the outside but was actually the size of a double bed! We watched the baker sweep out the glowing embers before baking our bread.

In the medieval farmhouse, we met people in period costume and were intrigued by the enormous central fire, which warmed the whole house. The floor, made from a mixture of chalk and milk, was another surprise. The children were especially amused by the unusual toilet—a simple hole through the first floor! They quickly agreed it was not a good idea to linger in the garden below.

Finally, we explored the Victorian school. The children decided very quickly that the Duke of Kent School is far more fun! The classroom was bare, with no toys, and the stern message on the blackboard read: “Children should be seen and not heard.”

It was a day full of discovery, laughter, and learning. The children came away with a much greater appreciation of how people lived in the past—and a new fondness for our modern classrooms!

Mrs Henry

I'd firstly like to congratulate pupils in Reception and Year 1 for showing boundless enthusiasm and excellent manners on their trips this week. It makes me very proud of our School to hear that our teachers are routinely complimented on the behaviour of our pupils. I asked a few Prep pupils what their highlights of the week have been and their answers ranged from "bananas and custard" and "having a lesson outside in Maths" to "watching my friends roll down the hill", "discovering the world's highest mountain is actually underwater" and.."finding my sock"! Sounds like people have had an excellent week all round!

Reception pupils have baked bread and made a house for "The Three Little Pigs", whilst in Nursery, children were learning about squirrels and had an acorn burying challenge in the woods. Year 4 began using what they saw at the sculpture garden last week to inspire their creative writing and Year 3 learnt stories about Athena and Poseidon in Topic. In ICT, Year 6 are set with the topics they'll use as the basis of their very own websites, and on Thursday, I saw Year 5s excitedly emerging from their Science lesson that focused on which foods we can eat freely and which we should save for special occasions as a treat. Felix B had the class in hysterics as the lesson was ending, when discussion turned to nutrition and trying new foods; he suggested his classmates "give peas a chance". Excellent advice if ever there was some.  

Lastly, please note the return of the BBC 500 words competition, opening next Tuesday, 23rd September. The UK’s biggest children’s story-writing competition invites young storytellers to write the kind of story they would love to read. No pressure around spelling, grammar or punctuation—it’s all about creativity! Plus, there are loads of prizes to be won, including the opportunity to win books for schools, an invite to a star studded grand final hosted by Her Majesty the Queen and much more. The deadline for entries is Friday 7th November.

Values Certificates: Tildy T for Kindness 

Stars of the Week

Nursery: Felix B for displaying wonderful social skills and positive interactions in class.

Reception: Finley F for a fantastic start in Reception, you’re showing a positive attitude and effort in everything we do!

Year 1: Cooper C for always paying such lovely attention to his work, asking for help when he needs it and taking great care with his presentation.

Angus T for showing a brilliant attitude on our trip – answering questions, sharing his knowledge and behaving beautifully.

Year 2: William F for his consistent perseverance with all areas of your learning.

Milly M for welcoming each day in Year 2 with a positive attitude and lovely manners.

Swimmer of the Week

Finley F demonstrated great listening skills and streamlined positioning. Finley attempted all tasks with a great attitude and positive attitude.

Mr Wright

The Careers Department

Below are a couple of exciting career opportunities that may be relevant to you or your son/daughter:

RAF World: Mission Ready, 24th September 7.30pm online

These themed online events are the perfect opportunity to explore many different aspects of a career in the Royal Air Force. As well as live speakers, there are also opportunities to find out more about specific professions and topics. You'll be able to connect with a friendly RAF recruiter online and experts will be there to answer all your questions about career paths, RAF lifestyle, sports opportunities, benefits, and how to start your RAF journey.

For more information or to sign up please go to the following website:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/raf-world-mission-ready-tickets-1372376939369

NHS Meet the Practitioner, 18th November 5-8pm, East Surrey Hospital 

An opportunity for individuals of all ages to explore the diverse and rewarding career opportunities available within the NHS. This event offers a unique chance to connect directly with healthcare professionals from across clinical, non-clinical, and technical departments. Gain valuable insights into NHS roles, educational pathways, and progression opportunities. Engage in meaningful conversations, ask questions, and discover how each profession plays a vital role in delivering patient care and supporting the wider healthcare system.

For more information or to sign up for a free ticket please go to the following website:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/surrey-sussex-healthcare-nhs-trust-meet-the-practitioner-careers-event-tickets-1495069476049?aff=oddtdtcreator

Today is the first day in the week of the Great British Beach Clean. People are encouraged to volunteer and sign up to the various details tasked with cleaning up our seas and coastlines. 

Whilst we may not all live close enough to the coast to volunteer this year it is definitely something to consider for when we do have time or opportunity. Many of us will have enjoyed the British beaches this summer and we have opportunities outside of, as well as this week to ensure we enjoy them responsibly and actively to ‘do our bit’ to keep them clean.

If not the beach then actively making efforts to litter pick when out and about in our local environment, as well as in our own spaces has huge impacts on wellbeing.

Firstly, living in a clean and vibrant area enhances mood and emotional state; access to green spaces and outdoor environments is vital for our mental wellbeing so ensuring they are well maintained allows opportunity for everyone to enjoy them.

Engaging in clean up activities also supports a sense of purpose and achievement; a satisfaction in one’s power to make a difference and therefore self worth. Children may like to be involved in a garden clear up at home with the opportunity to consider the habitat of their own garden such as bug hotels and leaving areas wilder and untouched ready for animals preparing to hibernate. Windfall nuts and fruits are vital for the animal eco systems in our gardens.

Thirdly, the opportunity to foster social connection and a sense of community by working with those we exist alongside. Volunteering with others gives a real boost to our mental wellbeing in the mutual benefits of helping others.

If you are looking for a family activity this weekend that will boost your wellbeing, you can learn more about the Great British Beach Clean and local volunteering opportunities below.

https://www.mcsuk.org/what-you-can-do/join-a-beach-clean/great-british-beach-clean/great-british-beach-clean-events/?order=time&latitude=51.062883&longitude=-0.325858&from_date=2025-09-19&to_date=2025-09-21

Or even organise your own litter pick.

https://www.waverley.gov.uk/services/benefits-and-community-support/volunteering/community-litter-picking

https://www.surreycc.gov.uk/community/voluntary-community-and-faith-sector/be-a-volunteer/want-to-volunteer/volunteer-centres

Mrs Douglas

Mr Monk

Impetigo 

A contagious skin infection.  Impetigo starts with red sores or blisters, but the redness may be harder to see on brown and black skin.  The sores or blisters quickly burst and often leave crusty, golden-brown patches which can look a bit like cornflakes.  We have cases in Prep School and Senior School so far.  We had a few cases of this at School last academic year and it can be a bit of a challenge to get rid of.  It's important that pupils with Impetigo follow treatment guidance; antibiotic cream or oral medication.  Pupils should stay at home for the first 48 hours of treatment.  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/impetigo/

Pupils returning to School with antibiotics should hand their medication in at the Front Office with a completed consent form.  The School Nurses will administer medications at break time.  Please email nurse@dokschool.org to confirm details.

Head Lice

They have returned to Pre Prep!  These were very very persistent last academic year.  We recommend vigilance in Prep and Pre-prep - see link below for further advice.  There are no exclusion rules, but please treat promptly if you find any unwanted visitors! https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/head-lice-and-nits/

Finally, please can Rwanda pupils continue to send in their malaria tablets (x10) for the attention of Mrs Sarjant.  We aim to have these all at School by 6th October.

The School Nurses

PADoK News

Dear All Parents

We are thrilled to announce that DOK Singers is starting on Tuesday 23^rd September in the Meeting Room with Mr Rye.  More details below.

PADoK  Halloween Bingo Night Friday 10^th October

**Fundraiser for the new teaching kitchen**

Bookings are now open

Get ready for a spooktacular evening of fun and fortune!

 Date: Friday, 10th October
 Time: 7:15pm

 What to Expect:

• Assemble your dream team and bring your competitive spirit
• Prepare your drinks and snacks—creativity counts!
• Put your luck to the test in thrilling rounds of Bingo
• Prize for Best Shared Table Spread—so go all out with your Halloween flair!
• Prizes Galore for winners and standout moments throughout the night

Costumes welcome, laughter guaranteed so don’t miss out! Book at padok@dokschool.org with your child's name and Year group. £12.50 a ticket.

We can’t wait to see you there!

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 

The DoK Flyers had a great tournament last week against a couple of schools and some local mums.  Everyone enjoyed the competitive spirit on the courts.  Thank you to Tara and Lizzie for organising it.  Training 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 & fun.  No experience necessary, everyone welcome! Please do come along if you would like to play netball. 

Duke of Kent School Singers

Calling all parents who love to sing, humming along to the radio or singing in the shower!

Our Parents’ Choir at Duke of Kent School is open to everyone ~ no auditions, no pressure. It's a welcoming space to relax, meet other parents, and enjoy making music together - lots of laughter guaranteed!

When: Every other Tuesday from 08:20 to 09:00

Where: Meetings Room off Old Hall Come along and discover how much fun singing can be!

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. Thursday morning at 08.30 in Ness Hall  From this term there will be a £5 fee for each week.

We had a good first session last Friday and then yesterday Core Control enjoyed the new slot on a Thursday morning.  The turnout was great and everyone did really well with the exercises we were working on. 

A weekly session focusing on a range of body areas such as back mobility, pelvic strength, hip control, shoulder stability, neck and upper back patterning and ankle balance.  All this pulls into CORE activation.

All this with lots of giggles, trying something new and making friendships across the lovely parent year groups.

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 your fitness training.  

Please contact Julia direct to complete a medical form.

Julia Rowe (julia@therunningspecialists.com)

PADoK Second Hand Uniform Shop

Opening dates should have now been uploaded to the calendar.

Wednesday 15^th October, Wednesday 5^th November & Wednesday 3^rd 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.

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), 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.