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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People, Planet, Partnerships – Norfolk’s youth speaks up!

November 19, 2025

Under the theme of ‘People, Planet, Partnerships’, we were delighted to welcome back on site on 18 November 2025 the fourth Youth Micro-Lectures event. This prestigious annual event is hosted and organised by Norwich School and put on in the Blake Studio in conjunction with the East of England branch of the Royal Geographical Society (RGS). Pupils in Years 10-13 studying geography from around the country were invited to propose topics for short lectures, and the winning five entries were chosen to present in person on the night. Six pupils – Keegan Ansley-Daniels, Bethany Dampier, Gabie Dementjeva and Farah Alwi from Notre Dame High School, Manhaa Islam from Framlingham Earl High School and Lea Zegan (L6R) from Norwich School gave talks on topics they felt passionately about. In ten-minute lectures followed by five minutes of Q&A, we heard about topics as varied as extremes of European weather, the monarch butterfly migration, thoughts on an Antarctic economy, stories behind the Gaza headlines and the human price of clothes. An audience of their peers, Fellows of the Royal Geographical Society, Old Norvicensians, teachers, parents and friends of Norwich School heard talks of great insight, commitment and hope, and our presenters fielded all questions fired at them with maturity and aplomb. The evening was hosted with characteristic panache by our very own Dr Anthony Speca, himself a Fellow of the RGS. The event’s honorary Chair, back for his fourth successive year, was Professor Tim O’Riordan OBE DL FBA, Emeritus Professor of Environmental Sciences at the UEA. He pulled together all the varied strands with perceptive and generous reflections addressed to our speakers in his closing remarks. Huge thanks to our six intrepid presenters for giving us such a fascinating and enjoyable evening. They can be very proud of their performances on the night, inspiring us all that the planet will be in good hands when this generation becomes environmental leaders. Our next RGS talk on site is taking place on Wednesday 10 December 2025 and comprises a public lecture and social event. The talk is entitled: On thin ice: a life in the Antarctic to be given by Professor Dame Jane Francis. We are indeed fortunate to have a speaker of the highest calibre on site for this talk: Professor Dame Jane Francis, Director of British Antarctic Survey. In 2017 Prof Francis was appointed a Dame in recognition of services to UK polar science and diplomacy. She became Chancellor of the University of Leeds in 2018, and was elected national President of the Royal Geographical Society in 2024. This event will comprise the talk itself from Jane Francis who will reflect on about her own life in polar research and provide valuable insights into cutting edge research underway in the Antarctic, as well as discussing the region’s many and varied threats. After Q&A, the event becomes more social, with festive with drinks and canapés, offering the chance to meet our speaker and audience members with a shared interest in our planet and its peoples. Doors open 7pm and the lecture will start at 7.30pm and is held in the school refectory at Norwich School. Booking link: On thin ice: a life in the Antarctic . This will be a popular event, so please book ahead. All are welcome.

Oscar Lawrence (M5) and his Journey in Wildlife Journalism

By Eleanor Lewis • November 19, 2025

To celebrate Oscar Lawrence (M5) journey in wildlife journalism and photography, especially with the news of his own column in Norfolk Magazine in 2026, we asked him some questions. What is the best part about writing for Norfolk Wildlife Trust? Tricky - there's so much to love about it. When I write my introductions, I use a couple of purely descriptive paragraphs designed to whisk the reader away into the midst of nature. When I proofread them, the experiences I've had with that species or place come flooding back, and I can remember every last detail of an encounter. And that's a great feeling. Which is your favourite piece? Why? My first ever commission from the Norfolk Wildlife Trust was fantastic. I was challenged with writing about a visit to Hickling Broad on World Swallowtail Day, and when I arrived I was so worried that I would get good photos, or my writing wouldn't be good enough. And by the end of that 3-hour walk, I felt so many thoughts buzzing round my head from the day that I couldn't wait to note down. I was already gripped, and it proved to me that journalism could be an incredibly rewarding passion as well as work. How do you explore your passions for wildlife photography and journalism at Norwich School? Writers' Bloc! Both a fantastic club and a fantastic play on words, I get the majority of my articles done in this relaxed, go-with-the-flow type space. I feel that in this environment I can switch off from everything else that's going on and invest wholly in my writing. How has Norwich School helped you/Supported you on your journey? I've told a good few teachers about my work as a writer, and their motivational and complimentary feedback has driven me to keep going. It has made me feel like what I'm doing can change people's attitudes, and help them see nature in a new and beautiful light. How has your journalism and photography progressed over the years? My writing has changed a whole lot! When I started this as a columnist, I felt I could just go with the flow and however much waffle is left in, it doesn't really matter as people will just skim through it. These days, I try to make every sentence, indeed every word, an immersive experience for my audience to keep them hooked the whole way through. When you write for more prominent news outlets, there's far more to consider about how you pitch your writing: do you go analytical and scientific, or creative and awe-inspiring? It's a difficult balance to strike. There is only so much you can read up about photography. My philosophy with that art has always been "learn by doing", and it seems to have worked alright so far. It was a big leap to switch from Automatic to Manual mode, but I've learnt so much by making the change. From a general skill-building perspective, my reflexes have certainly improved, as I leap for the shutter when a rare bird shoots past. What would you say to any budding journalists? Any tips? There's a lot to be said about this, and everyone will have different views on what the best policy is. But I don't have a set structure and I don't feel the need to bolster every sentence with rhetorical devices. The bottom line is, if you can read a line back to yourself and feel wonder, then it's a line well written. With creative pieces, your prose should motivate an emotive response throughout, leaving the reader flushed with excitement, sympathy and everything in between. You won't get to the level you want to be at without reading the experts' material. If you're lost, just skimming an RSPB article can give you tons of new ideas and vocabulary, even if it isn't about whatever topic you are covering. Finally, be self-conscious. As I write this, I am worried that I'm using "I'm" and "you're" far too many times, and that my answers aren't set out in an engaging way. As you write more and more, you will teach yourself to overanalyse what is on the page, which whilst mentally exhausting at times, means you can self-check without any bias. Essentially, if a sentence gives you (and I hate this phrase) the "ick" even slightly, then don't use it. Because the audience will feel that way too. Tell us about your column in Norfolk Magazine? (Which begins in January 2026) An amazing opportunity to say the least. I honestly couldn't believe I'd been accepted to write for the mag, and I was even more pleased to see the gusto with which they did accept me. I will have a column writing about the best Norfolk days out in nature for the first 6 months of 2026, after which point I will probably still drop in the occasional article. Currently, I have sent off my first article about the stunning Burnham Overy Dunes, and am working on another for the February edition. What's next for you? It would be awesome to lead some more tours, which I will do at Cley Marshes for Norfolk Wildlife Trust. After a successful walk this summer featuring such avian delights as green sandpipers, spoonbills and snipe, I am reassured that any other tours will be just as jam-packed with wildlife. My next will be in February, when I shall probably lead a trek down Cley Bank in search of snow buntings and velvet scoters. In terms of writing, I aspire to work-experience with some of the "big league" newspapers in London, and hopefully work shadowing some tours by e.g. Naturetrek or Oriole Birding to start with. What's the dream? With all these new technologies, surveillance and whatever unemployment problems AI will cause, the future is as worrying a prospect for me as it is for many others. AI can do so much in the way of data organisation, so I sorely hope that 20 years from now, readers will still value the investment and human experiences I convey in my writing. I want to spend as much time in nature as I possibly can throughout my life, and if I can make wildlife into part of my job, my dreams will truly be fulfilled. Let us hope that my heartfelt and awe-inspired stories will still interest the audience of the future.

Norwich School Choristers Feature on Exciting Cathedral Choir Christmas Album

By Eleanor Lewis • November 17, 2025

Norwich Cathedral Choir has released a brand-new album showcasing a selection of carols that has been recorded to celebrate the festive season - Lord of the Dance: Christmas Carols from Norwich Cathedral. The album was released on Friday 7 November on all major streaming platforms and features the choir singing 20 carols ranging from Away in a Manger to The First Nowell and Sussex Carol. In addition, the album is available in CD format from Norwich Cathedral’s gift shop for an introductory price of £10. This was recorded in Norwich Cathedral’s Nave in June this year, with the choir joined by music ensemble Onyx Brass and David Dunnett who retired as the Cathedral organist this summer after an incredible musical tenure of 29 years. Norwich Cathedral’s Master of Music Ashley Grote, who conducted the choir during the recording, said: “I'm really thrilled with our new Christmas album, Lord of the Dance, which is a collection of some of the best-loved carols, some in new arrangements. The combination of the Cathedral Choir, the newly rebuilt organ, along with award-winning ensemble Onyx Brass is a very special sound. It was wonderful to work on this project with Norwich-based independent record label Deux-Elles Classical Recordings; they have managed to capture a sense of what it is like to be in Norwich Cathedral at Christmas time. I hope that the album will bring a lot of joy to people this Christmas!”

Beautiful Sculpture Unveiled at Norwich School

By Eleanor Lewis • November 17, 2025

In some rare sunshine on 17 November 2025, a small group was present at the unveiling of a stylish and captivating sculpture located in Norwich School’s Jubilee Wellbeing Garden. Coni Meade was the worthy winner of a competition sponsored by the Friends of Norwich School to design and realise a beautiful artwork to be positioned in the unique Jubilee Wellbeing Garden, a stone’s throw away from Norwich’s magnificent Cathedral. All those pictured had been involved during the process to get to this point: Mr Campbell, Mr Cann and Mr Bowden from the school’s Art & Design Dept who had come up with the idea for the design competition, who ran it and subsequently helped winner Coni realise his vision; talented artist Coni Meade (ON 21-15) who was back for the day in Norwich from Uni in Loughborough accompanied by his proud parents, Nicholas and Mirona to see the work in situ for the first time; Madelé de Lange (former Chair), Anna Stevenson (Social Chair) and Julia Tooley (Secretary) who represented the Friends of Norwich School charity that generously funded the competition and the sculpture’s realisation; Jonathan Pearson ON and Sonja Mitchell who represented the FONS Grants Committee; Mr Sims who works tirelessly with his green-fingered gang of volunteers to maintain the attractive allotment and garden; ON parent Phil Thomas who represented the Dean and Chapter whose wholehearted support for the development of the garden space has been critical. The unveiling of this sculpture has special resonance for the Cathedral Close, complementing the exciting on-going public exhibition Art in the Close, combining ancient architecture with contemporary sculpture. Coni commented: “The artwork is intended to allow people in the Jubilee Wellbeing Garden to feel relaxed and to be reminded of nature, as they decipher the different quotes in the wings.” A huge thanks to all involved. Please take time to visit the Jubilee Wellbeing Garden to see this permanent and bold artwork in place.

Eliza Barclay (08-19) earns England caps

By Sonja Mitchell • November 17, 2025

Eliza Barclay gets England call up for the England Men's and Mixed Netball Association

Academic Enrichment Day Offered to Academic Scholars

By Eleanor Lewis • November 14, 2025

Pupils from Norwich School, Ormiston Victory Academy and Framingham Earl High School enjoyed a morning of interest and intrigue during our annual Academic Enrichment Day. Offered to Academic Scholars and high achieving pupils, the day, titled "Crime and Mystery" introduced pupils to a wide range of in-depth talks. A highlight was certainly a keynote speech from Diane Ivory, renowned former Scotland Yard fingerprint expert and CSI who explained the fascinating role fingerprint idenitification plays in solving crime, including some of the high profile cases she has worked on personally. Pupils also then had the opportunity to become Crime Scene Investigators themselves, by donning hazmat suits and setting upon solving a crime. 16 workshops took place over the morning, including a workshop on blood spatters, crime deviance and identity, smuggling and signals and body language and deception. Our great thanks go to Diane, workshop leaders and pupils for helping to make for a very interesing morning!

Love Your Enemies - an Address from Rev Child

By Eleanor Lewis • November 14, 2025

You have heard that it was said, “Love your neighbour and hate your enemy.” But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. (Matthew 5:43-48) Our assemblies this week have had a bit of a theme. As well as marking Armistice Day on Tuesday, we have had some Remembrance hymns, and we heard Dr Boutemy telling us about a member of her family who was displaced and relocated around Europe during wartime. I want to round off this week with a thought about the Bible passage we’ve just heard, where Jesus told his listeners to ‘love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.’ Because during Remembrance, after the fighting and the fallen have been remembered, people of faith have one further thing to think about – forgiveness. I want to mention three memorials to the idea of Loving Your Enemies that you can find in and around this cathedral. The first is the most famous. If you were to head all the way down to the East End of the cathedral, into the military chapel of St Saviour’s and through a door on the right, you would arrive outside at the grave of Edith Cavell. Many of you will know that she was a nurse in the First World War; you may also know that, according to her Christian principles, she treated wounded soldiers whatever side they were on. She was eventually sentenced to death for helping Allied Troops escape occupied Belgium. The words she said to a visiting chaplain on the night before her execution have become famous: “Standing as I do in view of God and Eternity, I realise that patriotism is not enough. I must have no hatred or bitterness towards anyone.” Edith Cavell was a Norfolk girl who became a famous Englishwoman, but in the end she saw herself as a member of the human family. That’s the cathedral’s first example of someone who forgave her enemies. The second example is much closer. If you look on the pillar wall just down here where the prefects are standing, you can see a plaque in memory of Alan Webster. He was the forward-thinking dean of Norwich Cathedral in the 1970s, and he introduced a number of things that we now take for granted – for instance, the idea of having toilets in the cathedral and opening up Riverside Walk. In many different ways he made Cathedral Close more welcoming. After Norwich he was made the Dean of St Paul’s Cathedral in London, which meant that at the end of the Falklands War in 1982, he was the person organising the service to mark the occasion. He was not content to make it a one-sided victory parade; instead he wanted to include prayers for the defeated Argentinians and he proposed having the Lord’s Prayer in Spanish as a gesture of reconciliation. At the time a lot of people disagreed with these ideas, but they came from his determination to love the enemy. The third example comes from the person I think you’re least likely to have heard of. If you were to go through that archway under the organ, you would find a small chapel with a small altar. And on that altar, the cathedral keeps copies (for visitors to take away) of a prayer found written on a scrap of paper in Ravensbruck Concentration Camp in Germany. It was written by prisoner number 31,795. It is a prayer of extraordinary grace, and it goes like this: O Lord, remember not only the men and women of good will but also those of ill will. But do not remember all the suffering they have inflicted upon us; remember the fruits we have borne thanks to this suffering – our comradeship, our loyalty, our humility, our courage, our generosity, the greatness of heart which has grown out of all this. And when they come to the judgement, let all the fruits that we have borne be their forgiveness. Amen. This prisoner prays – quite counterintuitively – for the people who are treating her with cruelty. She doesn’t just forgive them in this life; she prays for them to be forgiven in the life to come, because the suffering of the prisoners has, in one way, been positive; it has allowed them to grow in character and spirit. I don’t quite know how these three people – Edith Cavell, Alan Webster and a less famous wartime prisoner – were able to show love to people it would be much easier to hate. And I also wonder how much difference it will make to us the next time we are annoyed, injured or inconvenienced by someone – and that will be probably be today. But I do know that when we’re in here, we are in a place that takes seriously the ambition to love our enemies.

Pupils Come Together for an Advent Calendar and Warm Clothes Donation for West Earlham Schools

By Eleanor Lewis • November 14, 2025

On Friday 14 November, our community came together for a Home Clothes Day for West Earlham Schools. This Home Clothes Day was a bit different where instead of a financial donation pupils were asked to donate advent calendars and warm clothing. Our families have done us proud once again and we collected 204 calendars plus half a Transit van’s-worth of warm clothes, all of which were dropped off Friday morning. Thank you to Charities Committee pupils Perdie and Peggy who helped with donations! The donations will go towards helping families to have access to warm clothes this winter and allowing children to enjoy having their own advent calendar to celebrate the festive season. Anything we can do to help the incredible teams who look after these children is wonderful and we are so pleased and grateful for how many of our families have donated.

The English and Maths Symposia 2025

By Eleanor Lewis • November 13, 2025

Norwich School was once again delighted to host the annual Norfolk Maths and English Symposia on 13 th November at The Space in Norwich. These two landmark events have become a firm fixture for pupils studying Maths and English at GCSE and A Level, and this year were attended by 550 pupils from 16 schools. The maths event began with a talk from Dr Nira Chamberlain, Principal Consultant in Data Science and Mathematical Modelling and listed as "one of the UK's top 100 scientists", delivered an eye-opening talk on the ethics of AI and how advances in the use of AI in business and economics can be both a threat and a cure for our global society. Dr Ben Sparks spoke on the origin of number and gave a live demonstration of Mandelbrot's fractal design. He also explained how to find out if you have -1 sheep in your field (if you put another sheep in the field you'll still have no sheep...). Finally , Tom Crawford used an ab exerciser and a ball to demonstrate how to track plastic pollution in our seas (hint: it has a lot to do with Coriolis Force). The afternoon was dedicated to English, beginning with a detailed reading of Macbeth from Lecturer in Early Modern Literature (and ON) Peter Auger, a crucial listen for pupils studying Shakespeare's iconic play for GCSE. Next, DJ Taylor, an authority on the works of George Orwell (and also an ON) DJ Taylor introduced pupils to the many facets of the author, an intriguing insight for pupils interested in his works. Finally, DJ Taylor was joined on stage by acclaimed novelist Rachel Hore, author of 17 best selling books, who spoke about her entrance into the world of literature and writing, an inspiring talk for any potential novelist. The events are made possible by our sponsors, Norwich Freemen's Charity, Lady Hind Trust, The John Jarrold Trust, The Paul Bassham Charitable Trust, Norfolk Cambridge Society, R.C. Snelling Charitable Trust and ON John Walton. We look forward to its return in 2026!

The Big Bible Visit for Upper 1 Pupils

By Eleanor Lewis • November 13, 2025

Upper 1 from Norwich School explored the Cathedral during the Big Bible visit, using the vaulted ceiling to trace major biblical stories. Pupils examined different Bibles, dressed in period costumes, and walked the nave to imagine events such as Jesus calming the storm as the seas parted. They also reflected on creation and prophetic tales while engaging in guided discussion. The morning concluded with a shared prayer for health and happiness for the whole year group, offered together in unity.