Norwich School has enjoyed a treasured relationship with the highly respected Norfolk Cambridge Society, and we have played a key role hosting their 26-lecture series on site. The latest Norfolk Cambridge Society public lecture took place at Norwich School on 14 May 2026, delivered by Professor Robin Franklin, FRS, Honorary Professor of Stem Cell Biology at the University of Cambridge. He is a leading stem cell scientist and multi-award-winning regeneration biologist. Professor Franklin's topic was Brains, Stem Cells and Growing Old - Reversing the Ravages of Time, in which he discussed neuro-degenerative diseases and how brain cells are progressively lost as we grow older - a major factor in age-related cognitive decline. Before the 1980s, scientists understood that the brain could not regenerate, as it lacked the stem cells required for the production of new cells. Coherently and with great humour, Professor Franklin explained why he believes that future developments in this field are hugely promising, being at the forefront of scientific innovation that he and his team at Cambridge University are working on. It was a beautifully illustrated lecture and a masterclass in clarity and intellectual stimulation. There was not a free seat in the house. A very interesting Q&A discussion was led by acclaimed local neurology researcher and leading authority on Multiple Sclerosis, Professor Charles ffrench-Constant, who had worked with Professor Franklin. Discussions continued during drinks in the refectory afterwards. The Norfolk Cambridge Society has a simply stellar line-up of future talks ahead, with the next one taking place on 17 September 2026: " A Conversation with Ed Balls " - an interview with TV personality and former high-ranking politician Ed Balls in conversation with Phil Webster, former Political Editor of The Times. Tickets available : HERE . All are welcome. Our thanks go to the dynamic NCS for putting on such a compelling series of talks. Finally, please have a flick through our publication: At Close Quarters Trinity Term 2026 to see our full programme of exciting, cultural events taking place in and around Cathedral Close this term.

Winning gold at the Cheerleading Worlds is something most athletes only dream of, but for Tilly G and her teammates at Unity Allstars Flame, that dream became reality through hard work, dedication, and sacrifice. Tilly is part of Unity Allstars Flame, an all-girl under-18 team that became World Champions in their very first year as a Cheerleading Worlds team. Their achievement is even more impressive because many teams spend years trying to qualify for the Cheerleading Worlds, let alone win gold. Over the past year, Tilly has shown huge commitment to cheerleading. Since joining Unity Allstars, she and her family have travelled around three hours each way to training twice a week. This meant long nights travelling home, balancing schoolwork alongside training, and giving up so much of her free time to follow her passion. Cheerleading at this level requires strength, teamwork, trust, and determination. Athletes spend hours perfecting routines, stunts, tumbling, and dance sections, all while learning to perform under pressure. Despite the challenges, Tilly continued to work hard and support her team every step of the way. As a first-year Cheerleading Worlds team, Flame exceeded expectations throughout the competition. On day one, the team suffered a minor fall during their routine, resulting in deductions to their score. Despite this, they still finished the day in 1st place and qualified for day two. Determined to prove themselves, Flame returned to the floor on day two with confidence and absolutely smashed the routine, the atmosphere in the area was amazing , they delivered a powerful, clean routine with zero deductions. Their outstanding performance secured them the title of World Champions, winning their division by an incredible 10-point margin and bringing home the gold medal. Something that Tilly will remember for the rest of her life. Her journey shows that success comes from perseverance, commitment, and believing in yourself. Behind the gold medal are months of sacrifice, hard work, and determination, making this achievement even more special.

Our Lower One and Upper One pupils delighted audiences with two wonderful performances of The Bee Musical in The Blake Studio. The children proudly took to the stage for a special morning performance for our friends at The Great Hospital, followed by an afternoon performance for parents and families. It was a real joy to showcase the performing arts talents of some of our youngest pupils. Over the few weeks, the children have worked incredibly hard learning their songs and lines, while growing in confidence through drama, comedy and character performance. Their enthusiasm and commitment shone through in every scene, and it was clear just how much they had enjoyed bringing this lively production to life. The show featured some fantastic performances, with many of the children delivering their roles with confidence, expression and excellent comic timing. The audience was thoroughly entertained by the uplifting musical numbers, including the catchy Bee Bop , the energetic Bees Knees and the unforgettable Honey Honey Honey Bee Mine . Mrs Barclay praised the children for their wonderful performances and dedication throughout the rehearsal process, reflecting on what a special experience the production has been for everyone involved. She commented, “The children have loved every part of this journey, from learning their songs and lines to performing so confidently on stage and working together to create such a fun and polished production. I have been so impressed by the confidence, teamwork and enthusiasm shown by every pupil. These performances were a true reflection of all their hard work and of just how much they have enjoyed being part of this very special show.”