WHAT'S NEXT FOR THE CLASS OF 2024?

August 15, 2024

A Level results day is always filled with emotions, and this year was no exception! Our Class of 2024 has finally seen the results of their two years of dedication and hard work. It’s an exciting time as they embark on the next chapter of their lives. There have been some truly remarkable individual achievements, and our 2024 cohort should be incredibly proud of what they’ve accomplished. We chatted with a few of our students to hear what today’s results mean to them…

Friends Forever

Dylan, Hal and Alex have known each other for over 10 years and were rarely found without each other in and around school. They even opened each other’s results at GCSE and today for their A Levels.

Dylan, Alex and Hal, with friends Hugo and Chester

Name

Dylan Parsons

What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Dylan – 2D Art & Design (B), Psychology (B) and Religious Studies (B)

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

These grades are definitely far more than I expected so I am really pleased!

What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

The Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts to study Acting (Musical Theatre)

What has taken you down that path?

I’ve been told I was that annoying youngster who was always on stage, so I guess that has translated into acting!

What’s the dream job?

Actor

What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

Without a doubt it was to be the incredible performance opportunities I’ve had during my time here.

What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

The final scene of the final performance of Guys and Dolls and the bows at the end – what an incredible moment.

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

I say ‘my childhood’ and by that I mean I feel I have grown up at the school and now leave as an adult.

Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Splendiferous

Name

Hal Major

What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

3D Art & Design (A), History (A) Psychology (B)

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

They were WAY better than expected!

What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

Foundation Course in Art and Design at the University of the Arts London

What has taken you down that path?

I don’t entirely know! It was more because I didn’t like Fine Art so I swapped to 3D and loved it.

What’s the dream job?

Product Designer

What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

Friendship or acting

What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

I loved my 3D Art exam – it was stressful but equally I got to spend three whole days in the workshop building and being creative, which was so much fun.

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Old friendships and by that I mean being at the same school as my friends for so long – I have been at the same school as Alex for 11 years

Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Joy

Name

Alex Ivory

What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Art & Design (Photography) (A), English Literature (B) and Religious Studies (B)

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

Definitely not what I was expecting – I thought I’d get an ACC, so I’m really happy.

What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

I’m going to be a Gap Student in the Lower school and then whenever the wind takes me!

What has taken you down that path?

When I was really young I watched the film Jaws and loved it – I thought it was so cool. From then on I’ve wanted to make films which make kids feel the same as I did back then.

What’s the dream job?

Film maker

What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

I loved doing an artistic A level – it gave me the freedom to be creative.

What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

The 2022 Greece trip which was awesome.

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

2D lessons

Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Mr Douglas-Field

Studying STEM!

We are pleased to see many of our STEM pupils heading to universities throughout the country. We hear from a few of them to see where STEM can take you…

Sarvine was pleasantly shocked by her results!

Name

Sarvine Theiventhira

What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Maths (A*), Further Maths (A) and Physics (A)

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

Genuinely shocked! I was not expecting this at all! I am thrilled.

What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

Civil Engineering at the University of Southampton

What has taken you down that path and what might you want to do in the future?

Up until GCSE I was going to do medicine but when opened my GCSE results I decided I actually didn’t like biology! So I chose to do subjects I do like but equally wanted to do something for society. My uncle who is a Civil Engineer in the US told me about his job and sent me some information, which really opened by eyes to the importance of the job for society, e.g. facilitating transport / access to food and water, etc. Which really inspired me as whatever I do I want to make the world better place.

What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

The teachers and my friends – which have provided a really strong support system. Overall it has been a great experience for which I am so grateful.

What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

I’ve been here 7 years so it’s definitely too hard to choose just one memory there have been so many!

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Friends and assembly. Really just the whole Harry Potter lifestyle!

Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Lovely

Rosemary was thrilled to get 4 A*s

Name

Rosemary Zhang

What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Maths (A*), Further Maths (A*), Physics (A*) and Chemistry (A*)

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I am so shocked! I can’t believe it.

What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

Mathematics at University

What has taken you down that path and what might you want to do in the future?

Maths has always been my favourite subject helped by the fact that the teachers here are super encouraging. At one stage I thought about Engineering as a degree but quite I wanted something where I could also be creative and maths to me is the perfect balance between creativity and science – there is a rigid structure to it but on a deeper and more complex level it requires a lot of creativity to understand complex problems.

What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

It is a lovely environment and everyone is so nice. I have also loved all the extra curricular opportunities to be musical and take part in the wider school life.

What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

I don’t have one specific memory – I would say everything!

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

I love the school traditions such as assembly in cathedral.

Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Rewarding

Maddie's mum gives her a well done kiss!

Name

Maddie Hallam

What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Biology (A*), Geography (A*) and Chemistry (A)

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I worked really hard so I was hoping for good results, so I am really pleased.

What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

Natural Sciences at Durham University

What has taken you down that path?

I think Natural Sciences is a great course given that I am not sure about the dream job, as it gives me a lot of flexibility and will allow me the chance to have a taste of different things. I chose Durham because it is a really lovely place and I’ve heard good things about it.

What’s the dream job?

Not sure yet!

What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

I’ve been here since Form 3 so there is a lot but I would say it’s the friends I’ve made along the way.

What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

The classes for certain subjects have been really fun.

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

The little bubble of our community here in The Close.

Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Amazing!

Name

Naraen Prabhakar

What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Maths (A*), Further Maths (A*), Biology (A*) and Chemistry (A*)

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

It is a bit of a shock, especially having seen how high some of the grade boundaries are this year, so I am delighted.

What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

MORSE (Maths, Operational Research, Statistics and Economics) at Warwick University

What has taken you down that path?

I did look into medicine but I really have enjoyed Maths so much and it has always been my favourite subject – so I was driven really by the desire to do something I love! Hence numbers.

What’s the dream job?

Not sure at the moment – something to do with numbers for sure!

What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

The countless opportunities for getting involved – I really enjoyed being a prefect.

What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

The Leavers Ball – it was so fun to see everyone having such a good time.

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

All the friends I’ve made – I’ve known some of my friends here for 14 years!

Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Can I have two? Supportive and inspirational!

Jay with family

Name

Jay Ambadkar

What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Further Maths (A*), Maths (A*), Chemistry (A*) and Physics (A*)

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

They were definitely the results I was hoping for but I also needed these grades to get to my first choice.

What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

Maths and Computer Science at Imperial College, London

What has taken you down that path?

They are the subjects I enjoy studying.

What’s the dream job?

That is yet to be decided! Definitely something in tech but I am not sure which direction that will take at this time.

What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

I’ve liked a lot of things but what stands out for me is the teaching and the sense of community.

What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

I can’t narrow it down to just one memory – I have been very happy.

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

I am looking forward not back!

Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Good!

Name

Imie James

What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Biology, Chemistry and Physics

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I am pleased because my grades have got me into my first choice of university.

What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

Bio Medicine at the University of East Anglia

What has taken you down that path?

I love helping people – it’s always been part of who I am. It started when I volunteered in the library working with younger children, since when I have volunteered with Able2B for over two years.

What’s the dream job?

I would love to be a doctor specialising in paediatrics – I love working with children

What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

All the opportunities and experiences I have been lucky enough to take part in and the amazing staff for helping and supporting me throughout my journey. Particularly the opportunity Mr White gave me to set up my Send a Smile campaign which I have run for 5 years, and the chance to join the orienteering team which I have captained for the last 2 years.

What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

Singing at the Fashion Show – I had wanted to do something like that for so long but never had the courage to do it so I am so proud of myself for facing my fears and I actually really enjoyed it.

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

The people and seeing the cathedral every day.

Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Epic

Getting Creative

We are hugely proud of the Carter Centre, with its amazing facilities across all Art and Design disciplines (2D, 3D, Photography, Ceramics, Fine Art, Textiles, Graphics, and more) and the Blake Studio, where our drama pupils spend so much time rehearsing and performing. We are even more proud of the pupils who have done so well in creatives this year. We hear from a few of them here…

Lauren shares the good news with a friend

Name

Lauren Carter

What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Drama and Theatre, Classical Civilisation and Maths – I am really happy with my results

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I was definitely hoping for good results but I wasn’t expecting this at all – I am so pleased!

What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

The Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts to study Musical Theatre

What has taken you down that path?

There is a fantastic story that my mum tells that when I was 4 my music teacher chased my mum and told her to get me singing lessons! And I’ve loved music and singing ever since.

What’s the dream job?

To be a musical theatre performer

What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

The creative opportunities – I particularly loved playing Adelaide in Guys & Dolls, which was like nothing I’d ever done before.

What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

It was in Year 7 - during every tutor group session we played Frustration; we even had a song about it!

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

The Drama team – they are the nicest people I’ve ever met and they have been so supportive.

Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Busy!

Bea shares her results with her mother and grandmother

Name

Bea Wilson

What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Fine Art (A*), 3D Design (A*) and Graphic Communications (A*)

(Bea achieved 100% in all three of her exams)

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

The arts are done slightly differently – teachers gave me 100% before moderation so today was about finding out if the moderators had changed the results. I am obviously so pleased they didn’t!

What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

Ceramics at Cardiff Metropolitan

What has taken you down that path?

Originally I chose Biology, Maths and Fine Art and Graphic Communication but I felt more confident with arts so I changed. The teaching was really good and I enjoyed it. I am lucky that my parents are so supportive.

What’s the dream job?

I would love to teach ceramics to adults and children – the aim is to do something I enjoy.

What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

A lot! I have particularly enjoyed the environment – so much so that my friends and I have visited The Close in the Summer! I have made some really good friends who I know I will be in touch with for a long time.

What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

Leading the House Shout! We sang Build Me Up Buttercup and came second – I was terrified in the moment but it was such fun as well.

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Seeing friends every day. I will also miss spending time in the Carter building – which felt like a second home, where I know everyone and love spending time there.

Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Crazy

Liv got what she needed for the next stage in her dream to be a presenter!

Name

Liv Massey

What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Religious Studies (A), Drama and Theatre (A) and English Literature (B)

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

They are TOTALLY unexpected – way more than I even hoped for. I am in shock!

What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

Journalism at Sheffield

What has taken you down that path?

I’ve always wanted to be on screen and being part of Close Conversations Podcast Club for my Community Service option and having experience in the schools radio room really inspired me. I may not be good at sport or singing but I can talk! So why not do it for a career!!

What’s the dream job?

TV or radio presenter

What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

The friends I’ve made and being in this environment every day – the Cathedral and the Close make it very easy to romanticise being at school.

What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

The first Gala Night I did. Singing on that stage as the sun set, I remember thinking how lucky I am to be at this school.

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

The opportunities they give you here and the support you get.

Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

An explosion! Which sounds odd but honestly, coming here is like a firework going off.

Kaitlin with friend Max Nicholls who is going to study Law

Name

Kaitlin Wolmarans

What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Kaitlin – Psychology (A*), Art & Design (Photography) (A*), Art & Design (3D Design) (A*)

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I did not expect to do so well! I worked really hard and obviously wanted good grades but I am obviously delighted with 3A*s!

What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

Psychology at Sheffield University

What has taken you down that path?

I love social psychology and how we interact with our environment . This has definitely been inspired by Dr Wolsey who made lessons so enjoyable and made me want to do it forever!

What’s the dream job?

I would like to work in a creative agency

What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

The connections with my teachers, my friends, different departments – I’ve had so many laughs and memories since joining in Lower 4.

What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

Being on Narnia (Fourth Form playground) duty with my fellow prefects and joining in the games with the Fourth Formers who were such fun.

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Staff and the Refectory food . The Cathedral. The views. The atmosphere. There is so much!

Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Spectacular

Two’s Company

We have twins in many years throughout the school but the class of 2024 boasted more than most with no less than four sets of twins graduating this year. We managed to catch up with the Dimoglou brothers and Hill sisters to find out their plans for the future.

Brothers Hugo and Chester both got 3 A's!

Name

Hugo Dimoglou and Chester Dimoglou

What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Hugo – Maths (A), Economics (A) and Physics (A)

Chester – Maths (A), English Literature (A) and Drama & Theatre (A)

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

Hugo – I was very surprised by physics and happy I managed to pull through!

Chester – They are definitely the results I was hoping for and glad I managed to convert all that revision into the results I wanted.

What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

Hugo – Music, Multi Media and Electronics at Leeds University

Chester – The Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts to study Musical Theatre

What has taken you down that path?

Hugo – I downloaded some sound software on my computer for fun and really enjoyed it, which has sparked a real passion for the industry.

Chester – A mix of being in school productions over the years and my Independent Project, which involved looking at the industry from different angles.

What’s the dream job?

Hugo – I would love a job that has something to do with sound and recording studios

Chester – Acting or filmmaking

What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

Hugo – friendships

Chester – performance opportunities (and friendships of course!)

What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

Hugo – Cathedral every morning

Chester – playing Miss Trunchball in Matilda The Musical and working on my Independent Project.
What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Hugo – being close to everyone

Chester – the location

Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Hugo - friendships

Chester – the Cathedral

Livi and Tilly share their happy news

Name

Livi Hill and Tilly Hill

What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Tilly – Art & Design (Art, Craft and Design) (A*), Art & Design (Photography) (A*) and Art & Design (3D) (A)

Livi – Psychology, PE and 2D

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

Tilly – They are better than I expected – it’s only seeing it on paper that makes it feel real!

Livi – I am really happy with my results because they got me into my first choice.

What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

Tilly – Events and Experience Management at York St John

Livi – Sports Coaching at Loughborough College

What has taken you down that path?

Tilly – My love for theatre and the experience Norwich School has given me with live performance confirmed I wanted to go in that direction

Livi – I want to share my love for sport with everyone and help people find the sport they love.

What’s the dream job?

Tilly – Stage Manager

Livi – Sports Teacher

What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

Tilly – the opportunities – it’s incredible to reflect on all the things I have been able to do here.

Livi – Everything!

What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

Tilly – Definitely has to be stage managing Gala Night this year, which was extra special as it was my last big event before leaving.

Livi – Cheerleading in Paris

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Tilly - the atmosphere

Livi – the Supportive environment

Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Tilly and Livi – amazing

And now for something completely different…

Name

Max Nicholls

What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Max – Economics (A*), English Literature (A), Physical Education (A)

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I am very shocked especially with English – I needed 90% in the exam which was a tall order, so I am really happy. I did work really hard!

What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

Law at Durham University

What has taken you down that path?

I think it was the mock law trials at school that initially sparked my interested and then I was lucky enough to get some work experience which further ignited my interest, especially in corporate law.

What’s the dream job?

Corporate lawyer

What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

Where do I start?? There is a massive list of all the amazing opportunities I’ve had – rugby, Podcast Club, Gartley Society…..to name but a few.

What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

For me it was beating Greshams at rugby in the final minute in Lower 6! However, I suspect the peoples choice might be my role as the baby Jesus in the Sixth Form Nativity!!

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

The staff and the food in the Refectory – thanks Darren, Gareth and team!

Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

(The) Best

Daniel with his mum

Name

Daniel Conway

What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

History (A), Economics (A*) and Physical Education (A*)

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

Way better than I thought I’d done. I needed 3 A’s and after the mocks I was worried, so I am very happy today!

What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

History at Bristol University

What has taken you down that path?

I enjoy history – my dad and his family are historians and as a family we have been to a lot of museums which definitely sparked my enthusiasm and interest.

What’s the dream job?

I’m still working it out! I definitely want to do something that interests me. I’ve been an Outdoor Education Watersports Instructor part time over the summer and that is something I love doing, so I really don’t know at the moment!

What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

The opportunities – sport, especially rowing, 8th Norwich Scouts, leadership opportunities (I was Head of Brooke House). I think all these things have made me into the person I am now. Plus, doing a lot has helped me to manage and prioritise my time which is an important life skill – I was the only U6 pupil in the boys rowing team and training didn’t stop just because of A Levels, so I had to be super organised to ensure that I could fit everything in. I am grateful for that.

What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

Controversially perhaps for some, I always enjoy cup run – possibly because I won it every year I’ve raced it!!

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Being able to see everyone every day – now everyone is going in different directions you realise how important friendships and connections are.

Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Inspirational

Name

Charlie Jeffs

What did you study and are you happy to share your results?

Politics, Economics and Religious Studies

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I am happy with my results as they are what I need to get to the next stage of my life.

What’s next? Uni / year off / apprenticeship, etc

Liberal Studies at Waseda University in Tokyo

What has taken you down that path?

It was a combination of factors. I want to go into diplomacy so I thought it would be better to study abroad to get a more international perspective. Plus, the course is gives me greater freedom in what I choose to study – I am not restricted to a single subject, meaning I can do lots of humanities and I can later specialise in a field like International Relations. I have never been to Japan but I have been learning Japanese since December and attending Japanese language exchanges every weekend. It’s a fun language although it is hard but it’s more than worth it to engage with the culture and people.

What’s the dream job?

Diplomacy – would love to be a diplomat and eventually hopefully an ambassador.

What have you loved most about being a pupil at Norwich School?

Where do I even begin? The quality of education is fantastic. Plus, of course, the wonderful location and beautiful buildings. I have had lovely teachers – who know their subject very well and very often go way beyond the syllabus. Plus the school encourages academic curiosity.

What is your fondest memory of your time at Norwich School?

The time I have spent with my friends – we even had a band, although never played in public! Plus I’ve had many memorable moments in lessons and going on school trips has also been fantastic.

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

I will genuinely miss the teachers. I owe them so much and they are genuinely wonderful people The Cathedral surroundings are also very different to what I can expect in Japan but I am looking forward to my next adventure!

Can you sum up your Norwich School experience in one word?

Enlightening – simply just in terms of how much my horizons have been opened and how differently I see the world receiving this quality of education

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The Final Day for the Class of 25

By Eleanor Lewis • July 14, 2025

Friday 4 July, Independence Day in America, happened to be a memorable day of independence for some of our community, as it heralded the last day of school for our Upper Sixth pupils. And it wasn’t just the pupils sharing this special day – parents and guardians were welcomed to the Close to share in the celebrations. Some pupils had been through the entire Norwich School journey, reflecting on 11 years growing up in the Close, whilst others had experienced a packed and exciting two year Norwich School journey, having joined in Sixth Form. Whatever the ‘length of service’, however, the mixed emotions amongst leavers were shared – excitement for the future, sadness and trepidation as such an important chapter of their lives drew to a close, pride at having reached such a milestone and a touch of exhaustion at the end of such an important academic year. A beautiful sunny day dawned, with an early breakfast for the pupils and a special address from the President of the Horatio Society, Jacob Stevenson, who wished his peers well and encouraged them to embrace their new status as Old Norvicensians (ONs). Jacob also handed out awards as voted for by the pupils themselves including, to name but a few, Most Likely to Start A Charity, Best Bromance, Most Likely to Headline Glastonbury and Most Likely to End Up Back at Norwich School (an easy win for Joel Newman who returns next year as a Lower School Gap Student!). They then headed to tutor group where they were presented with their Valedictory Reports – as written by their Head of House and the Head. Parents and Guardians then joined the celebrations for a brunch on the Refectory lawn before filing into the Cathedral for a very special Farewell Assembly. It was hard to spot a dry eye as parents and pupils joined in singing I Vow To Thee My Country and Jerusalem, and the Head delivered a moving and inspirational address. The congregation were then upstanding and clapped continuously as the Upper Sixth filed out of the Cathedral for the very last time, exiting the West Doors, where they were greeted with a farewell and handshake from the Head. The Upper Close was buzzing as families reunited with one another, hugging and crying as they shared the emotion of such a significant day. Overall, however, despite the tears, it was a day for celebration – to toast a job well done to the Class of 2025 who gave it their all and embraced every opportunity on their Norwich School journey. Corks popped and there were photos a-plenty as families embraced a last chance to take pictures in the Norwich School uniform, before departing for perhaps a rest or a power nap, before dressing in their finest and heading for Norwich City Football Club for the Leavers Ball. Over 300 parents, staff and pupils attended a magnificent evening, with a sumptuous three course meal, entertainment and a live band which kept everyone on the dancefloor until 1am. There was an after party, but we will leave it at that…! Wishing the Class of 2025 every success for the future and stay in touch. Remember. You are all ONs for life!

DofE Gold take on the Peak District for their Practice Expedition!

By Eleanor Lewis • July 12, 2025

Three groups undertook their practice expedition at the end of term. The weather kept to the predictions, being warm and sunny. On the hottest day the groups left camp early, with altered routes to ensure water could be topped up several times. They all coped very well, arriving in campsites and shade before the highest temperatures were reached. The fourth group arrived and the first groups returned to Norwich. The training was repeated with a short walk to refresh and learn navigational skill, followed by some first aid training. The next day the group walked to their next campsite, where they adopted an 8th member which you can see with the team below!

Norwich School Success in the Oxford Scholastica Academy Essay Competition!

By Eleanor Lewis • July 10, 2025

Congratulations to Norwich School pupil Anna Rechel, who was successfully shortlisted in the Oxford Scholastica Essay Competition 2025! Oxford Scholastica exists to inspire teenagers to seize the future. They do this by offering academic programmes which combine university-style teaching with academic challenges, Masterclasses and cultural adventures, including their summer school in Oxford as well as online courses and internships. You can find out more here about their Oxford Summer School. Anna Rechel wrote a brilliant essay answering the question "What do you think the greatest challenge currently facing Writing & Journalism is and how might you play a role in tackling it?". The panel of judges were very impressed with Anna’s essay, shortlisting it within a competitive field of over 650 entries. Anna’s prize was a free place at an Oxford Scholastica academic conference. Entering an Essay Competition is a great way to prepare for university applications, think deeply about a topic beyond the school curriculum, and widen your academic horizons. Oxford Scholastica warmly welcome entries from Norwich School for future Essay Competitions, and any students who are interested can find out more here ! Many congratulations again to Anna Rechel!

Coming Up at The Crypt - Contemporary Landscape

By Eleanor Lewis • July 10, 2025

In August, we welcome Alison Dunhill to the Crypt for her exhibition ' Contemporary Landscapes'. An original exhibition of paintings of the natural world by renowned Norfolk artist Alison Dunhill. Vivid, bold and colourful paintings reflect the unique land and riverscapes of Norfolk, as in her response to the rewilding and regeneration of Walton Wood. These are contrasted with work inspired by the dramatic land of New Mexico and the Rockies, and some of the artist's earlier landscape work. Dunhill's dynamic explorations of colour, texture and perspective convey her close engagement with nature and the land, bringing an original, striking and provocative quality to her art. 19-30 August Open daily 11:00 - 5:00 Closed Sundays. Free admission.

Cambridge Chemistry Challenge

By Eleanor Lewis • July 10, 2025

In June, twenty Lower 6 chemists took part in the Cambridge Chemistry Challenge, a gruelling competition in which participants had to apply their chemical knowledge beyond the specification and were encouraged to think about Chemistry in the way they would at university. This year's two mammoth questions saw competitors learning about alkene isomers and the use of nuclear magnetic resonance in determining structures, as well as a 'non-boring question about boron'. The Chemistry Department was delighted with the level of participation this year, as well as the high proportion of certificates awarded to Norwich School, including three gold awards. The following pupils obtained awards: Copper – Brandon Camderman, Harry Chant, Thomas Irvine, Ana Paduraru, Mei McAuley, and Ansh Thakur. Silver – Omar Alfiky, Isaac Chan, Sissi Chan, Katerina Di Maria, Isio Emore, Emmanuel Milne, Emile Verschoor and Aaron Zhang. Gold - Mari Lee, Freya Simmonds, and Adit Raje.

FONS Support Helps Deliver Repaired Bicycles to Refugees.

By Sonja Mitchell • July 9, 2025

Thanks to the Refugee Support Group and financial support from FONS, over 30 bicycles have been repaired for local refugees.

Celebrating Norfolk Summer School 2025!

By Eleanor Lewis • July 9, 2025

Norwich School is proud to have hosted its 25th Norfolk Summer School this July, welcoming an incredible 111 pupils from schools across the county! Hosted by Norwich School and funded with the support of private benefactors, Norfolk Summer School aims to help the brightest pupils from all backgrounds who are considering Oxbridge, other academically demanding universities and medical school. Through a range of activities, including sessions on interview practice, in-depth subject seminars taught at university level and a chance to experience a university-style interview, pupils are given the chance to hone their subject knowledge and improve their skills in preparation for university application. This year teaching was delivered by Norwich School staff who were joined by industry experts from Cambridge University, UEA, London Universities and the University of Dundee. Pupils also enjoyed talks on personal statement writing, student finance and applying for Oxbridge. Organisers were delighted to see an increase in pupil numbers this year, confirming that there is a high demand for quality university application advice from young people. Pupils came from 23 schools across Norfolk and beyond, with pupils travelling from as far as Oxford and Leicester to attend the three days. During the week, 184 subject seminars were delivered covering 23 subjects including Maths, English, Science, Psychology, Engineering and Medicine. A real asset of the Summer School is its ability to cater for the more niche areas not commonly offered at A Level such as Law, Art History and Politics, meaning pupils have the opportunity to explore these new subjects at undergrad level before embarking on their university applications. The 32 staff were drawn from the school’s own teaching team, UEA and several undergraduate and graduate ONs. In total, teachers delivered 2,442 hours of information, advice and guidance over the three days. Pupils also had the opportunity to book a 1:1 appointment with Norwich School’s Oxbridge advisor, Mr Pearce. The Summer School will continue to offer UCAS support to all its Alumni for the next academic year and we look forward to supporting pupils through their applications! For more information about Norfolk Summer School click here . For requests for information please contact partnerships@norwich-school.org.uk

Choristers Set Off on Tour!

By Eleanor Lewis • July 8, 2025

With the Trinity Term and 24/25 Academic Year coming to a close, on July 8 Norwich School Choristers set off on a Cathedral Choir tour of Paris and Normandy. 16 Pupils from both the Lower and Senior school made their way to France to sing in some of the most beautiful churches and Cathedrals in the country, all while enjoying the culture in their spare time! One highlight on this trip will be the choir's appearances at the British Normandy Memorial in Ver-sur-Mer, where their performances of music will commemorate and remember the 22,442 servicemen and women who fell during the Battle of Normandy in 1944. You can find their itinerary below; Tuesday 8 July: 12.30pm Mass, Église de la Madeleine, Paris Tuesday 8 July: 6.30pm Concert, Cathédrale St Etiénne, Meaux Wednesday 9 July: 12.30pm Mass, Église de la Madeleine, Paris Wednesday 9 July: 7.30pm Concert, Église Notre-Dame d’Auteuil, Paris Friday 11 July: 12.00 noon Concert, Église St Maclou, Rouen Friday 11 July: 6.30pm Evensong, Église St Pierre, Caen Saturday 12 July: 12 noon and 1.15pm, Music for Remembrance, British Normandy Memorial Saturday 12 July: 5.30pm Concert, Sanctuaire Sainte Thérèse de Lisieux To find out more click here!

Victoria Atkins (18-20) to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro

By Sonja Mitchell • July 7, 2025

Victoria is raising funds for The Brain Tumour Charity and the Ali Ling Fund.

Head's Address from End of Trinity 2025

By Eleanor Lewis • July 4, 2025

It is great for the school to get to this point, the final assembly of the 24/25 year and a joy to share it with the parents of our Upper Sixth cohort who leave today. It is a personal privilege to have the chance to offer some reflections at a time which is laced with resonance for so many. Such occasions bring experiences and memories into enhanced focus. This has been much on my mind since the announcement a few weeks ago that the world’s most powerful digital camera has started producing its first images as part of a 10 year project to survey space and time. Situated at the Vera C Rubin observatory in the Chilean Andes to minimise light pollution, the camera is 1.65m by 3m, weighs 2,800kg and has three mirrors which are between 3.4m and 8.4m in diameter. It is hard to relate to these dimensions, so try this: it has 3,200 megapixels, making it 67 times more powerful than the camera of an iPhone 16 Pro; its resolution allows it to capture a golf ball on the moon and its detail is such that one would need 400 Ultra HD TV screens to display a single image. More relevantly for the project, its first image shows gas and dust clouds swirling 9,000 light years from earth. We may not have this precision in our own phones, but our senses and memories have an uncanny ability of capturing moments of particular significance; people even report time seeming to slow down at important moments. There is much for the senses to feast on in this last Cathedral service of the year so take moments during the service to take in and savour your surroundings: the sun streaming in from the South-West to light up swirling dust motes and the colours of the stained-glass windows; the gorgeous sounds from the Choir and congregation; the distinctive smell of this ancient building; and the cool touch of its aged stones. Just don’t lick anything please – 4th Form, that is the one sense we are not going to be trying out. We could not have this sensitivity to the world around us all the time; we would never get anything done. However, it pays to zoom in from time to time and the Cathedral provides just such a chance. As I reflect on recent weeks, my internal camera can pick out many images which have stuck with me: Bandfest, with 14 electric guitars all playing at once; The extraordinary detail in the jewellery films from the Fashion Show or the exquisite sketchbooks of our U6 in the Art and Design Exhibition; Redmayne packed with junior and intermediate cricketers or Lower Close packed with athletes in a vivid kaleidoscope of house colours; My favourite moment, not for the first time, came at the end of June from Discover Your Ability Day which the school hosts for the charity, Able2B. Frankly, if you were there and had spent time building your athlete partnership, you will know why this often wins my round-up and may well have your own special memory. For me, it was not the moment when the athlete pairs cross the line, heart-melting though that is, it was the hug that a girl with impaired physical mobility shared with her Norwich School pupil partner away from the finish line when the spectators’ gaze had moved on. A simple treasure. Yet a service like this allows us to do something else in common with the Vera C Rubin camera. That telescope deals with such vast distances that the light is from a different era. Our time-travel is rather different but no less potent. Today represents for all of us a significant punctuation mark, the end of the academic year. It is particularly so for our Upper Sixth because it is the end of their time at Norwich School. It will not be long before they process out of the West Doors to our applause as they leave to take up their places in the wider world. There should be some looking back, hopefully with enjoyment, certainly some pride, perhaps a dose of embarrassment at a dodgy 5th Form haircut or questionable dance moves at someone’s 18th. Yet I should also like you to try to consider what still lies ahead. In her talk to the Norfolk Cambridge Society this term Professor Gillian Tett, the Provost of King’s College Cambridge, referred to Steve Jobs’ famous 2005 Stanford Commencement Speech where he said that you cannot join dots forwards, only backwards. His advice to the students was to keep making dots and I advocate the same now. By way of example, I should like to return to someone I mentioned to the school at this morning’s assembly, our retiring Vice-Chair of governors, Stephen Bamber. He shared something of his life-journey when he gave out the prizes to the Lower School this term. A classicist by training, he secured a place as a Civil Servant at the Foreign Office but was told to gain some life experience before taking up his place. He decided to join the army and became a Platoon Commander, taking in tours of duty in Northern Ireland during the Troubles. By the time he finished his military commission, he returned not to the Foreign Office but was drawn to medicine, so back to learning he went before becoming a GP for some 30 years. His route to Norwich School governorship came through his own children’s time here as pupils. Looking backwards, one can see exactly how the range of experience has made Stephen such a wise and valuable governor, but if our Head of Careers, Mrs James, were to predict such a career for any of our current U6th I suspect there would be bewilderment; Stephen’s life can hardly be described as following a plan. You can only join the dots up looking backwards, so as you make your way through life, particularly while you are of school age or an 18 year-old about to leave, just keep making dots. And what dots should one make? Again, as a classicist who retrained in medicine, I think Stephen’s life story is instructive: he has always been curious to learn more and has not been afraid of putting his mind to different areas of study. This brings to mind the delightful story of the cellist, Pablo Casals. He practised every day, even after retirement. When asked why, he replied “because I think I’m making progress”. His age at the time? He was 90. Upper Sixth, take a moment to look backwards and join the dots of your school career, the moments which have moulded you into the fine young men and women I see in front of me: your A Level subject choices, your role in that play, your part in that school team, the time you first met your best friend. But remember how many dots there still are to make. Keep doing so, even if you are not sure how they will join up. That will be for another moment of focus. As you get ready to leave, please know that we have loved your presence in our community. You have been a strong sporting year-group and you have given us countless creative triumphs. You have also helped the wider community and been a close-knit support group for each other. If we have got it right, we have not been a hothouse for you but we have been a greenhouse, nurturing you as sensitive plants to develop healthily through setting the right overall conditions for your overall growth. Go out in the world with a lifelong love of learning to be forces for good in the wider community. And do stay in touch from time to time to let us know what you find. You leave with best wishes from us all.