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

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Rowing Report from the Start of Trinity 2025

By Eleanor Lewis • May 21, 2025

The Trinity term began with 10 J15 and J16 rowers representing the Eastern region at the Junior Inter Regional Regatta. All crews reached the A Finals, with J. Howard and J. Hawkes winning a Silver medal in the J16 Pairs. Sunday 4 May saw the Senior Boys and Girls crews raced at Wallingford Regatta in some tricky cross winds. One of the Girls Coxed Fours was less than 1 second off a place in the Repechage. A valuable day of racing to the start of the Regatta season. The following weekend the Senior Boys and J15 Boys and Girls crews raced at Nottingham City. The four Senior boys that had raced a Quad the previous weekend, switched to a Coxed Four and had a great race against Emmanuel College, leading until the last 250m. The J15 crews were all racing as Development Crews (open to all ages), but again had some good racing beating from Club and Cambridge College crews. The First Eight put a tough morning race behind them to win the Open Eights event in the afternoon. Daniel White and Nicholas Conway attended the GB U19 Spring Trial Regatta at the start of term. A 17th place was achieved by Daniel and a phenomonal 2nd place for Nicholas. This result gained Nicholas selection to race for GB U19 at Munich International Regatta. Some exciting racing saw Nicholas win Silver in the Coxlesss Four and Gold in the Eights. This week sees all year groups racing at the National Schools Regatta in Nottingham. The J14s Boys and Girls and J15 Boys race on Friday and the Seniors and J15 Girls race on Saturday, with the Boys 1st Eight racing again on Sunday. We wish them all a successful regatta.

Cricket Catch-Up from the Start of Trinity 2025

By Eleanor Lewis • May 21, 2025

The Cricket program has enjoyed an outstanding start to the term, with the fine weather and sunshine providing the perfect backdrop for a series of impressive individual and team performances. Both our U13 and U15 girls’ teams qualified for the Indoor Regional Finals after strong victories in the County rounds, and their hard work during the Winter was rewarded. Our 1st XI girls have begun their season in remarkable fashion, progressing to the third round of the School Magazine Cup. A standout highlight came in their win over Oakham, where India Fox and Alice Brand shared a phenomenal 215-run opening partnership. We also celebrated a historic milestone as Bella Borges became the first girl to score a century for the school. On the boys’ side, the 1st XI remain unbeaten this term and have advanced to the third round of the National Cup, where they will face Oundle. The U15A boys are now County Cup champions, having already recorded impressive victories against Warwick School and Stamford in the National Cup. Across all teams, we’ve seen several hat-tricks and other exceptional individual displays that reflect the depth of talent developing across the program. We look forward to building on this early momentum as the term progresses.

A Riot of Colour in Blake Studio

By Eleanor Lewis • May 19, 2025

On 14 May 2025 we were delighted to welcome back on site the illustrious Norfolk Contemporary Art Society (n-cas) for the latest in their impressive programme of talks hosted at Norwich School. Our speaker was talented, London-based artist Trevor Burgess. He remembered fondly his local connections, having curated the Norwich Gallery and having been heavily involved in the arts scene in Norfolk during the 1990s. A significant element of Burgess's subsequent career has been as an artist-curator in a number of successful national exhibitions, during which time he has won numerous awards and prizes. Over 100 of his paintings are available at Bridgeman Images and were included in his lecture. His fascinating talk was on the subject of What is Colour. Trevor reflected that more than 40% of the human brain is taken up with processing visual stimuli and the colour palette of art works is hugely critical to their appreciation. This was sumptuously illustrated in a slide deck of painstakingly selected images. With such a large and compelling collection of beautiful fine art under his consideration (Monet, Matisse, Munch as well as eastern influences), Trevor‘s thoughtful and engaging talk prompted much debate amongst our audience of n-cas members, local creative artists, pupils, ONs and staff over refreshments with the speaker afterwards. Pupil Hetty who had helped at the event commented: As a Lower Sixth art scholar it was really interesting to hear about the topic of colour in paintings, specifically oil paintings. Last night’s talk by Trevor Burgess explored paintings being a platform for guiding emotions and creating a sense of space through colour. He addressed many artists renowned for their use of colour such as C é zanne, Matisse, Oskar Kokoschka and Joaquin Sorolla. One of the key notes I am going to take away from the talk is to paint the light and the experience not just the object. For our next talk in the Blake Studio, we welcome back the Royal Geographical Society for another mouth-watering talk over half term, to which all are welcome: Thursday 29 May – Royal Geographical Society public lecture - A Life in Green: looking back, looking forward – Sir Jonathon Porritt CBE. Jonathon is a very eminent writer and high-profile environmental campaigner. He is perhaps best-known for his work and advocacy for Friends of the Earth and the Green Party over many decades, bringing to national prominence important ecological issues and crises. Jonathon’s talk will address what we have learnt from the last 50 years of activism on climate and biodiversity issues, and what are now the priorities when the challenge has never been more pressing. We are very fortunate to have attracted to site a speaker of his profile and calibre, and this promises to be a lively and though-provoking evening. Timings : 7.30pm - Blake Studio Norwich School, The Close - doors open 7.00pm Booking link : A life in green: looking back, looking forward - RGS . Tickets to be bought in advance please as space for tickets sold on the door is likely to be very restricted. Details of Norwich School’s eclectic selection of cultural events round site feature in our termly publication, At Close Quarters , with the Trinity Term 2025 edition now out. See: Publications | Norwich School . Do join us.

Onward Routes for Our Upper 6 Pupils - May 2025 Update

By Eleanor Lewis • May 16, 2025

Most (over 90%) Norwich School pupils who applied through UCAS to university this academic year have now received decisions from all the universities they applied to. We congratulate all pupils on their university offers and offers for apprenticeships and degree apprenticeships received so far. We hope these pupils will understand that the size of the Upper 6 year group means we cannot publicise every offer; the offers below all required additional hurdles (e.g. interviews/admissions tests/auditions/portfolios) as well as a UCAS form. Apply Plus offers received since mid-March (when 16 Apply Plus offers were shared): Caidon Cary – Chemical Engineering at University of Manchester Matthew Coelho Bartram – Chemical Engineering at Imperial College London Oliver Howard – Mathematics at Imperial College London Jack Rowley – Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Imperial College London Offers to study medicine, dentistry and veterinary medicine received since mid-March (when 18 of these offers were shared): India Bayes (ON) – Dentistry at University of Sheffield and University of Leeds Natasha Bew (ON) – Medicine at University of Sunderland Menuka Jayakody – Medicine at University of Bristol Sushant Singh – Medicine at UEA Offers to study creative courses for pupils who we have not yet shared offers for: Zach Baker – Music and Sound Recording (Tonmeister) at the University of Surrey Anoushka Craggs – Foundation Course in Acting at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire Leah Feetham – BA Musical Theatre and Dance at Bird College Conservatoire, at Performers College (part of BIMM University) and Stella Mann College of Performing Arts. Foundation Musical Theatre at Italia Conti. Katie Jackson - Architecture at University of Liverpool and at UCL (15 applications per place for this course) Freya Tyack – Architecture at University of Nottingham Offers to study at universities abroad received since mid-March (when 5 pupils’ offers were shared): Bosco Tang - Dentistry at HKU (Hong Kong) Lawry Williams – Economics at the University of Western Australia (in Perth) Several pupils have secured reduced grade offers due to being identified by universities as ‘High Performance Athletes’ for a range of sports. We congratulate Fraser Evans on his Sports Scholarship (hockey) to the University of Birmingham.

Lower 1 and Upper 1 Informal Concert – A Night to Remember!

May 15, 2025

Our Lower 1 and Upper 1 pupils performed in the Hall recently for their Informal Concert that brought joy, smiles and plenty of musical magic to everyone in the audience. For some of our young performers, it was their very first time in front of a crowd – and they rose to the occasion beautifully! From heartfelt solos to lively duos, the evening was a celebration of talent, courage, and pure enjoyment. Parents and families were treated to a vibrant mix of music, including a spirited drumming performance of Queen’s We Will Rock You, a dynamic vocal duet of I’m Still Standing by Elton John, and a crowd-pleasing rendition of Seven Nation Army. Instruments on show included piano, guitar, drums and recorder. The atmosphere was warm and encouraging, with cheers and applause filling the room. It truly was a night of happiness, musical discovery, and unforgettable memories. Bravo to all our brilliant young performers! Our next Informal Concert takes place on Thursday 5 June at 16:45 in the Lower School Hall and will feature pupils from Lower 2 and Upper 2.

Now at the Crypt - 'RETURN' by Marion Piper

By Eleanor Lewis • May 15, 2025

From 15 to 24 May 'RETURN' by Marion Piper is brought to the Crypt Gallery. Marion Piper presents a sequence of paintings made over the past two years for her show RETURN at the Crypt Gallery. Geometric abstraction and colour interaction combine with her interest in early Italian Renaissance painting. She playfully explore rhythms, perspectives and spaces, both real and imaginary. 15th - 24th May Open daily 11:00 - 16:00 Closed on Sundays and Bank Holiday Monday. Free admission. Informal artist talk in the gallery on Saturday 24th May at 14:00, no booking required. RETURN is supported by NCAS Small Grants programme. Visit the NCAS website here.

L6 Scholars Visit Kenwood House and Highgate Cemetery

By Eleanor Lewis • May 13, 2025

On Tuesday 13 May the L6 scholars were taken on a trip to Kenwood House and Highgate Cemetery in London by Dr Farr and Mr Murray. The trip was intended to inform an ongoing discussion that we were having in scholarship lessons on identity and biographical writing. In Kenwood, the pupils presented on a painting of their choice to the group and we considered the life of Dido Elizabeth Belle (1761-1804) and her relationship to the abolition of slavery in the British Empire. We then had a tour of Highgate Cemetery with a view to thinking further about social identity in the Victorian period. We were fortunate enough to bask in beautiful sunshine throughout the day. Later in the school year the scholars will be producing pieces of writing based upon our experience of these two fascinating locations.

A busy life as a L6 pupil at Norwich School – fitting in Community Service around many other commitments…let’s hear from one of them!

By Eleanor Lewis • May 13, 2025

This year has been full of exciting opportunities that have allowed me to grow both personally and as part of the school community. As a Lower Sixth pupil, I’ve been involved in the community service programme through volunteering with Break charity giving me valuable experience supporting the preparations for GoGo Safari. This gave me a real insight into the behind-the-scenes work involved in running a large charity event, and I came away with a deep appreciation for the time, planning, and dedication it takes to bring something like this to life. This hands-on experience has been complemented by a range of enriching academic and extracurricular opportunities such as the out of school talks hosted by the school, one of my favourites was the inspiring NCAS lecture by David Pearson, focused on book design and typography. It was fascinating to see how design choices can influence how we engage with stories and information. Another standout moment was meeting Ed Balls, where a group of us spoke to him about the school’s partnerships. Creativity has been a big part of my year too. I was involved in launching the Close Creatives Collective, a new Lower Sixth group that brings together students with shared creative interests. This has allowed me to work closely with the marketing department on poster design and visual materials, which has been a great way to apply creative thinking to real-life briefs. Alongside this, I’ve had the privilege of co-leading Earthwatch, an environmental initiative within the school. We introduced reusable cups and marked Earth Day with an assembly to raise awareness about sustainability. As a provisional prefect, I’ve supported school events, helped welcome new pupils, and even had the opportunity to speak in the Cathedral. I also joined Toastmasters to improve my public speaking skills, and proudly represented the school throughout the netball season—an experience that strengthened my sense of team spirit and commitment. - Hetty Holden, L6

Maths + FONS = Lots of fun quizzes!

By Sonja Mitchell • May 12, 2025

Due to its success last academic year, FONS is delighted to support the 2025 Norfolk Maths Challenge once again.

VE day (80th anniversary)

By Eleanor Lewis • May 9, 2025

On Friday 9 May, Rev Child gave an assembly to mark VE day. ‘Fellow Israelites, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know. This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross. But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him. (Acts 2:22-24) The fact that VE day was a cause of huge celebration doesn’t really need explaining. The war was over – at least in Europe. War is an unholy thing. People on all sides of the conflict were in no doubt about that, not least because they had seen their churches and other holy places blasted and broken. That was true in Norwich when bombs fell around Cathedral Close. Some of you may recall a Remembrance address Mr Pearson gave a couple of years ago where he told us about the night the pupils of Norwich School helped put out fires on the cathedral roof. Coventry was bombed, and you can still visit the roofless shell of the old cathedral, which now has a modern cathedral standing next to it. The thousand-year-old Church of St Andrew in Plymouth was another notable church to suffer a direct hit as the nearby naval bases were attacked. One famous story that has been talked about again this week concerns this church. It was, in fact, a teacher who, on finding out that St Andrews had been bombed, arranged for a wooden sign to be made, with a single Latin word written on it: ‘RESURGAM’. Resurgam means ‘I will rise’ – it’s from here that we get our English word ‘resurgent’. The wooden sign was placed over the doorway of St Andrew’s, which was still standing, in the hope that the church would rise again around it – and, more broadly, that peace, civilisation and everything good would rise again. In the aftermath of the war, while there was no money for rebuilding, the smashed floor of the church was cleared and then cultivated as a garden where people could go for a peaceful wander. Eventually the church building did rise again, and if you visit Plymouth today you can see that the wooden sign has been replaced with a permanent stone sign that still bears that one hopeful word, ‘Resurgam’. It’s a story which shows how the people of that generation managed to hold on to hope even in the darkest days. And we did rise again! Look at us now in this educational community, in this city, in this country, all of which thrived in the eighty years of peacetime that followed the war. Look at us with our positive plans and our prospects – which we owe not only to that military determination that the war should be a success, but also to that civilian determination that the peace should be a success. Would we have been able to do the same? If it had been our generation dealing with the desperation of war, would we have held on to hope? I like to think that we would – and I think that partly because we have a long history of doing so. The word ‘Resurgam’, for instance, can also be found underneath the emblem of a Phoenix on the wall of St Paul’s Cathedral in London. It speaks of renewal and rebuilding after the Great Fire of London. On Wednesday you heard Mrs Fairweather talking about the poems of Maya Angelou. You may know that one of her most famous poems is called ‘Still I Rise’ – you may even have studied it in English. It’s a modern classic, an expression of spirit and determination in the face of oppression. Being resolved that we will not stay down, that we will rise again, is a thread that runs through our shared culture and our national heritage. If you haven’t spotted the connection already, all of this is most appropriate in this Easter season. The Christian resurrection account, a story of resurgent hope, has inspired generation after generation. Jesus was dead and buried, and all hope was lost. But then it turned out, as our Bible reading today tells us, “it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him”. It’s why the word ‘Resurgam’ belongs particularly over the door of a church. And it is why our country and our culture, having been influenced for centuries by faith, is inclined to say ‘we will rise again’. I think that’s something to celebrate on a day like VE day.