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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 I was delighted to see the Cookery Studio in full use this week! 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 our Whole School Photo so please could children look neat and tidy in the correct uniform. Finally, as you know, I will be retiring at the end of this year. The recruitment campaign for a new Head is now up and running and I look forward to keeping you updated as the process progresses. Have a lovely weekend!
Mrs Knox
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Visitor Sign In Process
 We have a new visitor registration procedure and self-service kiosk in the front office. It is located to the left as you enter through the main door.
Could we ask that all parents visiting for scheduled 1-2-1 meetings with members of staff please sign in at the kiosk.
- Arrival: Please use the self-service kiosk to enter your details, host name and take a photo. If your meeting is in Mr Wright's office please still come to the Front Office so that we know you are on-site before making your way to the Pre-prep entrance.
- Departure: Please use the kiosk to sign out when you leave.
If you are at school for something like match tea, an assembly, performance or Parents' evening there will be no need to sign in.
Please ask our staff for assistance if you have any trouble using the machine. Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our school and our children safe!
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Reminder - Changing Rooms
Just a reminder that parents and carers should not be entering the changing rooms at any point. If you need assistance when collecting bags, please find the nearest member of staff. If your child is missing equipment, please contact the PE Team or Form Tutor.
Many thanks for following our safeguarding protocols.
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Year 7 Trip to Sayers Croft
 Year 7 recently embarked on an outdoor adventure to Sayers Croft, bringing plenty of energy and enthusiasm to a jam-packed day of activities. The trip began with a lovely walk down to the centre. Although the heavens opened early on and gave everyone a bit of a soaking, the students showed resilience, and their spirits remained high throughout the morning.
Once on site, the students were split into two groups to tackle the two morning activities: Climbing and High Ropes. Both challenges required focus, bravery, and plenty of encouragement from peers. While the climbing wall was enjoyed, the High Ropes course emerged as a particular highlight of the day.
After a well-deserved lunch break to refuel, the groups rotated through their afternoon sessions. They worked collaboratively to navigate a tricky Challenge Course, testing their problem-solving and communication skills, whilst the Axe Throwing required a steady hand as they tried to hit the target. Both afternoon activities were a hit and kept the students fully engaged.
The day concluded with a relaxed walk back. The students were a credit to the school, demonstrating great teamwork and positivity from start to finish.
A huge thank you to Mrs Coackley and Mr Lodge for helping throughout the day.
Mr Monk
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Duke of Kent School Opens New Cookery Studio
 We are thrilled to announce the opening of our brand-new purpose-built Cookery Studio this week, following an exciting transformation over the summer break.
The new kitchen features six fully equipped cooking stations, as well as a dedicated tasting area, providing pupils with an inspiring and practical environment in which to develop their culinary skills.
The Cookery Studio will be used by pupils across the school. As part of the Design Technology curriculum, pupils in Years 3–9 will have the opportunity to develop their Food Technology skills, learning about ingredients, nutrition, preparation and cooking. Our Pre-prep pupils will also make use of the studio as part of their Life Skills programme, developing independence and confidence through simple, age-appropriate cooking activities. The Cookery Studio will also support learning across other areas of the curriculum. In Science, for example, pupils can explore nutrition and the properties and changes of ingredients, while Maths can come to life through practical work on weighing, measuring, quantities and scaling recipes. In History, pupils might research and make Anzac biscuits, exploring their links to the First World War and considering how families made use of simple, readily available ingredients.
The new space will also provide opportunities beyond the curriculum, with a range of weekly after-school clubs. Prep pupils can get creative in the Baking Club, while senior pupils will have the opportunity to develop their skills in the Senior School Cooking Club.
Head, Sue Knox said:
“We are delighted to open our new Cookery Studio and to see this wonderful space take on a new life. Developing practical skills is such an important part of our pupils’ education, and this fantastic facility will give children from Pre-Prep through to Year 11 the opportunity to learn, create and grow in confidence. Whether they are mastering a new recipe, exploring nutrition or simply enjoying cooking together, we hope the Studio will become a place where our pupils develop skills that they will carry with them throughout their lives.”
The opening of the Cookery Studio is another exciting addition to the facilities at Duke of Kent School and reflects our commitment to providing pupils with opportunities to learn through practical, hands-on experiences.
We look forward to seeing plenty of creativity, collaboration and delicious results coming out of the Cookery Studio in the months ahead!
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Following some tree surgery works over the summer break, this week saw the much anticipated re-opening of Junior Jungle. The excitement at the announcement was palpable, with bases quickly starting to take shape, currencies agreed and civilization - but not as we know it - beginning to develop.
Pre-prep pupils had a fantastic first swimming session on Wednesday and Nursery have been acquainting themselves with the grounds. There's been much creativity, of course, with Year 2s using 'blow painting' to make their own colour monsters, Year 1s thinking about what makes them unique to write sentences about what they enjoy doing and Reception have made bread, inspired by 'The Little Red Hen'.
In Year 5 Science, pupils have also focused on food, learning about the main food groups and the role they play in our diet. Year 3 ventured back to Ancient Greece, comparing the geography to modern day Europe. In English, Year 6 have been studying the use of different narrative voice in 'The Dark Horse' and Year 4 began their new class text, 'Varjak Paw', considering how the protagonist's differences to his own family might influence the plot. Year 4 were also stepping into rivers (metaphorically so far) in Topic, to understand why they are so important.
Values Certificate: Frida S for Responsibility
Swimmer of the Week
Jakey G for a super first swimming lesson of the year and careful listening to instructions at all times.
Stars of the Week
Nursery: Freya G for her infectious and joyful return to school! What a great attitude.
Reception: Aurelie E for a lovely retelling of the ‘Little Red Hen’ story using props in the classroom.
Year 1: Jessica G for excellent listening and setting a good example for her peers.
Year 2: Fliss F for starting Year 2 with a positive attitude and challenging herself during an independent writing task.
Mr Wright
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The new term has got off to a positive and energetic start, with pupils quickly settling back into school life and approaching their learning with enthusiasm. It has been a pleasure to see classrooms buzzing with activity throughout the week. Our extra-curricular programme is now fully underway, and it is fantastic to see so many pupils taking advantage of the varied clubs and activities on offer.
A reminder that our whole-school photograph is scheduled for Monday, subject to favourable weather conditions. We would be grateful if you could ensure that all pupils arrive wearing their full winter uniform so that everyone is ready for the photograph.
Congratulations to the following pupils who have recently reached a milestone of 25 Merit Points. Their hard work, positive attitude and commitment to school life are to be commended:
Florence A, Andoni B-S, Benat B-S, Matilda C, Seren G, Ivan K, Herb M, Autumn N, Mia P, Charlotte P, Oliver T, Eva W, Amelia W, Lauren B, Ben G, Noah J, Orlando U, Josh W, Leo B, Maxim D, Oliver D, Jay J, Caleb M, Jordan V, John B, Sascha H and Penny N.
A special congratulations also goes to Fin C, Sonny C, Casey J, Micheal M-B and Akash M, who have each surpassed 100 Merit Points and have been presented with their recognition badges.
Well done to Will M and Mac Y, who have achieved an outstanding 200 Merit Points, earning their next recognition badges.
Finally, an exceptional achievement goes to Jasmine W, Thibaut J and Harry L, who have each reached the remarkable milestone of 300 Merit Points and have received their recognition badges. Congratulations to all of our award recipients. We are incredibly proud of your continued effort and achievements.
Mr Wyllie
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 The heavy rain on Tuesday did not stop the first matches of the season. The girls' hockey team performed brilliantly for their first game and there were some exceptional performances from our football teams. The U11 teams also started their season well, particularly well done to the U11 A football team with a strong victory. The U11 girls' netball teams showed some great energy and determination, with the A team also starting the season with a victory.
On Thursday, there was a training game for the U16 girls' hockey team at King Edwards School and some extra training for U8/9 boys and girls before their matches next week.
The Year 11 orienteering and pickleball group showed great enthusiasm and are starting to develop their skills and levels of fitness. The U16 boys' football team pushed themselves impressively when measuring their fitness levels during the Bleep test!!
This was a very enjoyable week on the sports field, with great support from the Duke of Kent School parents! Let's hope the weather stays fine for next week's fixtures.
Mr Herbert
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What Parents & Educators need to know about Character.AI
Character.AI lets users create and chat with AI-powered characters that can behave like friends, mentors, fictional favourites, or romantic partners. While these conversations can feel engaging and supportive, their convincing human-like responses can blur important boundaries. Young people may encounter inappropriate content, misinformation and privacy risks, or begin forming an unhealthy emotional attachment to an AI companion.
For parents and educators, understanding these risks can make conversations about AI companionship more constructive. This #WakeUpWednesday guide explores warning signs such as secretive or excessive use and withdrawal from real-world activities, while offering practical advice on checking age restrictions, protecting personal information, questioning chatbot advice, and responding appropriately when safeguarding concerns arise.
Click the link to learn more about "Character.AI".
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I hope all pupils have coped well with a full week back in school and are beginning to get into the swing of their routines and timetables.
I have this week spoken to Year 9 about the opportunity for them to train as Peer Mentors working with Prep School pupils. If they haven’t already, please encourage them to complete the application form in their Google classroom; the deadline is Monday.
Finally, I’d like to reiterate my invitation, for those of you who are available, to our first Connections Cafe on Thursday the 17th of September from 8:30-9:00am.
This is an opportunity for parents to meet one another and make connections with other members of the school community. It is open to new and returning parents and will be an opportunity to share experiences, ask questions and hopefully forge new connections.
We will meet in the Meetings Room and tea, coffee and refreshments will be provided. If you have nowhere to rush to when you have dropped your child(ren) at school, please join us for a welcoming hot drink and chat. If it proves popular, we hope to repeat on a half-termly basis.
I look forward to seeing those of you that can make it then.
Mrs Douglas
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There's already been some ill health in circulation at school this term. With this in mind, we ask all staff, pupils and parents to remember the following infection control requirements:
- Pupils and staff with a temperature of 37.8 or higher should stay at home until their temperature returns to normal (without the aid of medication).
- Pupils and staff who have experienced diarrhoea and/or vomiting should stay at home for 48 hours after their last episode of either.
- All pupils and staff should wash hands thoroughly and regularly throughout the school day; especially before eating and after toileting or performing respiratory hygiene.
- All pupils and staff should follow the "catch it, bin it, kill it" approach to reducing the risk of germs spreading at school (see below). Pupils are encouraged to bring their own supply of tissues and throat lozenges to school when they are a little under the weather:
Finally, please can all pupils have a full, named water bottle at school each day - hydration is so important to help boost a strong immune system and also to prevent headaches!
Thank you for your support - have a healthy and happy weekend!
The School Nurses (Chloe & Maya)
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Welcome back from all of us at PADoK HQ. Our first meeting will be on Tuesday 15th September where we will be plotting to deliver a fun filled year for our parent community! Please do come along if you would like to. All are welcome to attend. 08.30 in the Meeting Room.
PADoK Clubs:
Duke of Kent School Flyers – Netball training
Mondays 17.00 – 18.00 in Old Hall. Please contact Tara at padok@dokschool.org if you are interested in playing. Any experience welcome.
Duke of Kent School Singers
Tuesday 22nd September - 08.20 – 09.00 in the Meeting Room with Mr Rye.
 Come sing with us, all welcome & a very relaxed & fun group.
Contact Cathy Williams at padok@dokschool.org.
Second Hand Uniform Shop
Friday 25th September – 08.00 – 09.00.
PADoK Book Club
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.”
New title incoming soon.
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