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A Message from Mrs Knox
 What fantastic Prep and Pre-prep Sports events earlier this week. Every pupil gave of their best, with real energy, enthusiasm and excellent spirit throughout. Thank you to the parents who joined in so brilliantly for the Pre-prep Parents’ Race! Well done to everyone involved.
You can view all the Sport Day photos taken by Serena Shelton on our website:
View Prep-prep photos here
View Prep photos here
We are now looking forward to the rescheduled Senior School Sports Day on Wednesday 1st July. It has been an exceptionally hot week, and I would like to pay huge tribute to our pupils and staff for the calm, good-humoured and careful way in which they have managed the conditions. Their resilience and care for one another has been exemplary. I am so saddened that we had to cancel this evening’s Sports Dinner due to the continuing heat. We will, however, be celebrating and acknowledging all of our outstanding sports men and women at our final whole school assembly next Friday. Next week will be a very busy final week of term and we are looking forward to welcoming you to Parents’ Day on Saturday 4th. This special occasion is a chance to celebrate and acknowledge our fabulous pupils and to mark the final event in our school’s 50th anniversary year in fitting style. If you would like to pre-order a delicious hog roast, please order here
Mrs Knox
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100 PADoK 100 Club Winners - Summer Term
The PADoK 100 Club is a termly draw where parents have the chance to win a sum of 3 different amounts. Half of the tickets sold go to PADoK who allocate the funds to different departments in the school, to school events or to charity.
Congratulations to the winners:
1st Place - Marcus B (Year 9)
2nd Place - Oscar B (Year 2)
3rd Place - Michael Mc-B (Year 7)
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Year 5 New Forest Trip
 Year 5 enjoyed a fantastic three-day residential with the New Forest Activities Team. After settling into camp, the children headed out onto the Beaulieu River for an afternoon of canoeing, taking part in games and challenges along the way. Evenings were spent enjoying camp life, playing games together and making the most of the beautiful weather.
The following day saw the children tackle bushcraft, archery, high ropes and low ropes. Throughout the activities, they demonstrated excellent teamwork, resilience and encouragement for one another, with many showing real courage as they stepped outside their comfort zones. After packing up camp on the final morning, the trip concluded with the ever-popular Battle Zone challenge, where teamwork, strategy and plenty of energy were on display. Year 5 returned to school tired but full of stories, having created memories that will last for years to come.
Mr Gritton
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Year 6 Cobnor Activities Centre Trip
 Year 6 returned from their residential at Cobnor Activities Centre with plenty of stories, a few aching muscles and, remarkably, a newfound appreciation for boiled eggs! The adventure began with a breezy sailing expedition that saw keel boats leaning at angles that made some wonder whether they were sailing or auditioning for a stunt show. After marshmallows, jokes and a good night's sleep (for some), the children tackled high ropes, solved mysterious challenges that may never be fully explained, and spent an evening racing and entertaining their egg-shaped companions. The final day featured energetic aeroball battles and archery, before a collection of happy but thoroughly exhausted children headed home. A cracking trip all round!
Mrs Nicholson
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Year 10 Dorset Trip
 On Wednesday 17th June the Year Ten cohort embarked upon a trip to the deepest depths of Dorset, visiting Lulworth Cove, Durdle Door, Old Harry Rocks, Studland Bay, Paultons Park and Swanage en route. Our first stop was Southampton City Centre, where the Geographers plucked up their courage and collected information regarding sustainability, in the form of a Traffic Count, Environmental Quality Assessment and the dreaded questionnaire! Having gathered enough data to form the basis of our Human Geography investigation (and the non-geographers having finished investigating the history of Jane Austen in the city) we headed on to Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door to see the ever-changing coastline and get a glimpse into the past.
After a brief rest (and an ice cream for most) we headed to the YHA in Swanage and separated into our various rooms for the night, before coming together for a hearty meal and an England victory on the communal TV. Maybe it is coming home after all?
Thursday saw us venture down to Studland Bay, allowing all to look at the sand dune succession at Knoll Beach before walking to Swanage via Old Harry Rocks, accompanied by ever-improving weather. After a lunch stop in Swanage, consisting of fish and chips for most, some cricket was played on the downs and a talent show, alongside Mrs Punter's world famous quiz, took us to bedtime. Our second hearty cooked breakfast on Friday morning preceded us heading home, via Paultons Park, where I had the joy of listening to one young man scream 'no' at least a hundred times in quick succession on one of the more exhilarating rides.
A lovely trip, accompanied by fine behaviour and an engaging, good-natured and amicable bunch of pupils.
Mr Wilson
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Father's Day Forest School Event
 On a beautiful summer afternoon, Pre-Prep hosted its much-anticipated annual Fathers’ Day Forest School event. This special occasion is always one of the highlights of the year, bringing together children and their fathers for an afternoon of fun, adventure and shared experiences in our wonderful woodland setting. As always, the event was exceptionally well attended and it was a delight to see so many families enjoying quality time together outdoors.
Before the activities began, everyone enjoyed cooling lollies and delicious cheese snacks while catching up with friends. The woodland soon buzzed with excitement as families explored the wide range of activities on offer. Children proudly created medals and decorated leaves using natural materials, while some enjoyed trying their hand at archery. Across the forest, there was plenty of digging, den building and tree climbing, with children demonstrating their creativity, teamwork and imagination.
The afternoon was filled with laughter, conversation and memorable moments as fathers and children worked, played and explored side by side. We are incredibly fortunate to have such a beautiful outdoor learning environment, and it was wonderful to see it being enjoyed by so many families. Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the event such a success. We hope that all who attended went home with happy memories of a very special afternoon in the forest.
Mrs Henry
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Year 11 Trip to Barcelona
 Early on Sunday morning, a group of 47 Year 11 pupils arrived at Gatwick Airport, a mixture of excitement and early-morning tiredness clearly visible as they prepared for their final school celebration trip. After a smooth flight, we touched down in a warm and sunny Barcelona and made our way straight into the city.
Our first visit took us to the remarkable La Sagrada Familia. As ever, Gaudí’s extraordinary cathedral proved breath-taking, with pupils taking time to explore both the exterior and interior while learning about the rich symbolism woven into its design. The scale and detail of the building left a lasting impression on everyone.
From there, we travelled by coach to the coastal town of Calella, where we settled into our hotel. Once rooms were allocated and bags dropped off, it wasn’t long before many pupils headed straight to the beach. The sea offered a welcome chance to cool down, followed by relaxed games of volleyball and football on the sand.
On Monday, the focus shifted to excitement and adrenaline with a day at PortAventura theme park. With an extensive range of rides on offer, pupils were able to enjoy everything from fast-paced roller coasters to water rides, making for an action-packed and memorable day.
Tuesday began with packing up and checking out of the hotel before heading back into Barcelona for our final day of activities. Our first stop was the historic Montjuïc Castle, which provided both a fascinating insight into the city’s past and stunning views across the harbour, skyline and Mediterranean. Pupils took the opportunity to take photos, enjoy the surroundings and even stop for a well-earned ice cream.
We then continued into the lively La Rambla area and the well-known Boqueria Market. Pupils explored the bustling streets, sampled local food, and began selecting souvenirs to take home.
To round off the trip, we spent time at the Maremagnum shopping centre, giving pupils a final chance for some shopping and relaxation before heading back to the airport. From there, we returned to the UK after a full and memorable final day.
This trip was made especially successful thanks to the support and dedication of the staff team – Mrs Southee, Mrs Turnbull, Mrs Vermeulen and Mr Wilson – and, most importantly, the outstanding Year 11 cohort. Their enthusiasm, positive attitude and behaviour throughout made the experience thoroughly enjoyable for everyone involved.
We now look forward to continuing the celebrations at the Year 11 concert and dinner on Tuesday. A fantastic way to round off their time at school – well done to all.
Mr Wyllie
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On Thursday, in their Science lesson, Year 5 created some illuminating videos for Pre-prep explaining why we have night and day - a great excuse to close the curtains and hide from the sun for a while! In History, they also examined how transport and population growth have changed Guildford over time. Year 4 reached the denouement of their class reader - The Boy at the Back of the Class - to discover a surprise about the narrator (no spoilers!) that had them gasping in shock. The Year 3s were laughing and giggling their way through English lessons this week, focusing on nonsense poetry and exploring the fun to be had with alliteration in tongue twisters. Meanwhile, Year 6's poetry studies took a more tragic turn on Wednesday, reading about the plight of the lonely Lady of Shallot, which they read on the picturesque banks of a stream in Ewhurst.
Reception had lots of fun painting their clay snails (which Mrs Henry took down to be fired with great care!) and Year 2 were also focusing on fire - despite the heat - as they watched the Grisly Great Fire of London film to celebrate filling their class marble jar. Thankfully, there were games of drip-drip-drop and a whole department sprinkler splash to quench everyone's desire for cooling down. I think the staff were equally grateful for the relief! Have a good, and cooler, weekend, everyone.
Values Certificates:
Lily C for Respect
Reading Certificates:
Grisha D and Gabriel J (Gold), Mattie F (Silver)
French Certificates:
Logan N (3N); Dagny N (4R); Darcie S (5T); Daisy W (5G) and Alfie R (6N)
Stars of the Week
Nursery:
Freya C for displaying brilliant phonics skills and showing great compassion towards her friends during group activities!
Freddie N for joining in with group activities with such enthusiasm, and being kind towards everyone around him!
Reception:
Imogen W for joining in with group activities with such enthusiasm, and being kind towards everyone around her!
Rosie A for always being super keen! You also, set a great example with tidying up and being helpful!
Year 1:
Ellie F for your amazing counting skills this week in Maths, counting in 2s, 5s and 10s. Well done Ellie!
Rory O’K for a great improvement in your handwriting skills. Your letter formation and the presentation of your work is really coming along. Well done Rory!
Year 2:
Oscar B or using ‘clever counting’ to successfully work out multiplication and division, and for always putting a smile on my face with thoughtful and kind notes and pictures.
Jack T for your continued effort with your handwriting and confident answering of quick fire times tables questions.
Paul E for your fantastic sportsmanship at Sports Day!
Mr Wright
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As we approach the final week of term, there is still a wonderful buzz of energy around the school, despite the exceptionally high temperatures we have been experiencing. A huge well done to everyone for persevering and continuing to give their best efforts while remaining focused in such challenging conditions.
The Senior School has been noticeably quieter towards the end of this week, with Year 11 having now officially finished their time with us. Meanwhile, Year 10 have moved into the Common Room and are already settling in and making the space their own.
There is still much to look forward to in the final week of term, and hopefully in cooler temperatures. The Year 8 and 9 production of Animal Farm promises to be a fantastic showcase of talent and creativity. Sports Day, which has been rescheduled to Wednesday, is always a highlight of the school calendar and will no doubt provide a wonderful display of teamwork, perseverance, and camaraderie.
Finally, congratulations to the following pupils who reached the milestone of 25 merit points this week: Charlie B, Layla B, George S, Eva W, Heidi B, Henry S, Poppy F.
Mr Wyllie
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Summer Concert
Last Saturday evening, we held our annual Summer Concert in the top car park, and what a wonderful occasion it was. More than 100 pupils from Years 3–11 performed in a fantastic programme of solos, duets, trios, groups and ensembles, showcasing the remarkable breadth of musical talent across the school.
After a rather uncertain forecast, the weather could not have been kinder, with the sun making a welcome appearance just as the concert began at 6.00 pm. It was particularly special to see pupils, parents and staff performing together, creating a wonderfully relaxed and celebratory atmosphere.
We were also delighted to welcome back several former pupils, with Jess I, Izzy P and Lola C joining Miss Barnes' Mini Choir, while Bobby F and Harley B reunited with Mr Rye and Mr Kaye for a rousing performance of Johnny B. Goode.
A huge thank you goes to Mr Wilson, Miss Barnes and Mrs Hudson for their outstanding support and hard work, as well as to all the staff who helped set up and run such a memorable evening.
Please check out all the photos taken by Serena Shelton: view photos here
 
Animal Farm
As you have no doubt seen, this week's performances of the Year 8 and 9 production of 'Animal Farm' have been postponed due to the extreme heat. We look forward to seeing all those who have managed to sort out their tickets on Monday afternoon or evening. We are so pleased we can still put on this dramatic play and the cast are excited to showcase their work, directed by Mrs Honey with assistance from Lisa Lee.
Mr Rye
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What Parents & Educators need to know about Technology Attachment
Many young people and children today are deeply attached to their digital devices – often using screens for comfort, connection, and even validation. This attachment can quickly turn into dependency, especially with many apps designed to be habit-forming. Our guide breaks down how and why these connections develop, and the ways in which they might affect children’s behaviour, focus, and emotional resilience.
From disrupted sleep patterns to distorted self-image, the consequences of excessive screen time can be far-reaching. This guide also examines how digital communication may shape friendships and social skills, as well as the hidden risks children and young people face in virtual spaces. With expert insights and practical strategies, it’s a valuable read for anyone supporting children and young people in our digital world.
Click the link to learn more about "Technology Attachment".
Mr Monk
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At the end of a week where we have seen some challenging temperatures to navigate at home and in school, it would be remiss of me not to discuss the link between high temperatures and high emotion. Hopefully, next week we can all stop talking about the weather!
There is a proven link between high temperatures and emotional dysregulation, particularly in children. When the body begins to overheat, the brain focusses on cooling down its vital organs and limbs and can neglect other areas such as emotional regulation. This could result in reduced tolerance and more frequent emotional outbursts. Managing focus and periods of frustration are also affected.
3 main factors are at play here:
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Sensory overload - heat affects our senses and can particularly trouble children with heat sensitivities making anxiety and emotional overload more likely.
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Pre-frontal cortex - this still developing logical part of the brain struggles with energy being diverted to focus on cooling strategies. Therefore, emotional outbursts and clear decision making are impaired.
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Poor sleep - lack of sleep has a direct effect on emotional regulation.
In order to help children combat these damaging effects of the heat, it is important to follow the nurses advice on sun exposure and hydration. It is also important to aim to keep the bedroom as cool as possible to aid better sleep. Additionally, validating their big feelings will help in ensuring they feel understood. Reassuring them that everybody will be affected by the heat and therefore their emotions are possibly running higher and quicker than usual. Allowing opportunities for quiet mindful activities in cool spaces will also benefit in keeping their physical and emotional temperature stable.
Wishing everyone a cooler weekend!
Mrs Douglas
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The extreme heat we are experiencing is inevitably causing some health challenges. We have experienced a variety of skin rashes in Pre Prep; definitive diagnosis is difficult in the current circumstances, however it seems for now that we have NOT had chickenpox at school this week; rather heat rash and insect bites.
Heat in general is making some of our community feel a little unwell with heat exhaustion. It's important to be aware of the difference between heat exhaustion (resolved with good hydration and sensible measures, such as staying in the shade) and heat stroke, which is a medical emergency (see below).
Thank you to those of you who have already completed an "E Consent" for your child to have the flu immunisation at school on 24th September 2026 (available to all pupils from Reception Class to Year 11). Please make sure you enter your child's CURRENT year group when entering your E Consent information.
Please can parents of pupils in current Year 9 complete a medical form for the Duke of Edinburgh bronze expedition (18th to 19th September) by the end of term.
Best of luck staying cool this weekend!
The School Nurses
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PADoK News
PADoK AGM – Tuesday 23rd June – 08.30 – 10am
We held our AGM on Tuesday and welcomed Richard Brocksom, Chair of Governors, who came and answered questions from the committee. We voted in members for the upcoming academic year.
Chair – Camilla Phillips, Deputy Chair – Polly Horsburgh, Secretary – Louise Cole, Treasurer – Ellie Machin.
We are looking to hold a Quiz Night next term but are always keen to hear of any event ideas from our parent community? Please email padok@dokschool.org with any ideas or if you would like to be involved with PADoK.
We thanked Donna Lodge for giving 11 years to the PADoK committee as a class rep and in recent years, Treasurer. Donna will be hugely missed by the team. We also thanked Emma Lowe and Cathy Williams for being class rep to the outgoing Year 11s. They have done this role for many years. Fortunately they will still be with us as they rep for the current Year 9 and run the second hand uniform shop.
The future of PADoK was discussed and we are exploring running it in a different way to reflect how busy parents are and for it to be more inclusive. All parents are part of PADoK and we feel at present that side of it is not represented. Again, any thoughts welcome. Camilla, Polly and Louise will be stepping down from July 2027.
PADoK Clubs:
Second Hand Uniform Shop – Open this coming week.
**Wednesday 1st July 3 – 4pm **
**Due to the change of date for Senior Sports Day, we might be open on another day. Please keep an eye on messages from your class rep.**
PADoK Book Club
Our new book is Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid. “An epic novel set against the backdrop of the 1980s space shuttle program about the extraordinary lengths we go to live and love beyond our limits.”
Duke of Kent School Flyers – Netball training
We are looking for new players so please do come along. The WhatsApp group will publish when and where they are training as it varies. Come along for lots of laughter, exercise & fun. Everyone welcome! Contact Tara at padok@dokschool.org.
Duke of Kent School Singers
Tuesday 30th June 08.20 – 09.00.
 Come sing with us! The Duke of Kent Singers are looking for new voices, male & female. Whether you’re a seasoned singer or just curious, you’ll fit right in.  Friendly group No pressure Tuesday mornings with Mr Rye & Cathy Come along, have fun, and make music with us.
Please do come along, it is a very relaxed and welcoming choir.
 When: Every Tuesday from 08:20 to 09.00
 Where: Meetings Room off Old Hall. Contact Cathy Williams -padok@dokschool.org
Important Note: please always park at the bottom of the site and walk up to Old Hall.
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