One School, One Community: Tom's Journey from Nursery to Sixth Form

When Tom joined KES Prep Nursery at the age of four, he could hardly have imagined the journey that lay ahead. Now, as Senior Deputy Head of School in his final year at KES Southampton, he has taken the opportunity to reflect on the experiences, opportunities and relationships that have shaped him throughout his time at the School.

Read Tom's reflections in full below.

"I was 4 years old when I joined KES Prep in Nursery, and it seems crazy that I’m nearing the end of my time here. 
 
Now that I am in my last year, and with the chance to reflect on my time as part of the KES family, I would like to take this opportunity to ask everyone to consider just how lucky they are. It is truly a privilege to be surrounded every day by all of the amazing teaching and non-teaching staff who make this school the special place that it is. It is important to remember that a school doesn’t just facilitate academic achievement; it also shapes you as a person. I think that KES has taught me lessons that will stay with me long after I leave. 
 
KES offers a staggering number of societies and co-curricular activities. These are a great way to meet like-minded people and stretch yourself outside of the classroom, helping you to build skills for life. In Lower Sixth, I joined MenSoc and had the opportunity to help plan Movember. This year, I am leading the organisation of Movember with another student. Building on the successes of last year, we are hosting the first ever KES Games Night on 28 November. It will be a chance for Sixth Form students, parents and staff to enjoy themselves whilst raising money for a meaningful cause. I am also part of the PDSA (Portsmouth Down Syndrome Association) school charity. The other students and I are looking forward to this Friday when we will be pulling on our Halloween costumes and partying with our friends from the PDSA charity.
 
The Autumn Term always feels the busiest, and the October half term holiday seems to come just when we all need it. It is an important time to rest and, especially for those sitting internal exams in December, to consolidate knowledge and practise skills. As someone applying to university myself, I know how easy it is to feel the pressure at this time of year, but it always helps me to remember the excitement to come after half term, as we build up to Christmas and (more importantly) the hotly contested House Christmas Song competition.
 
Finally, I would like to congratulate everyone on a very successful first half term. From the fantastic sports results, to the hard work of everyone involved in the school play, to the Year 7 Fun Run, there has been plenty to celebrate. And a special well done to those in the Sixth Form who have actually managed to get their UCAS forms in!
 
I hope that everyone has a great half term break.

Tom
Senior Deputy Head of School, KES Southampton."

Tom’s reflections highlight the unique benefits of a continuous 2-18 education. Beginning his journey in Nursery and progressing through Prep School, Senior School and Sixth Form, he has experienced first-hand the sense of belonging and continuity that comes from growing up within one school community. We thank Tom for his contribution to School life and wish him every success as he prepares for the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.