Nestled in Dry Hill House, the English Department offers every pupil the chance to embark on the captivating intellectual journey of reading and exploring profound literature, as well as the emotional enrichment and support of a course of study that develops wellbeing on top of academic excellence.
From their initial lessons to their final ones, boys receive dedicated and inspiring guidance in navigating the realms of literary expression. The Department plays a pivotal role in enriching the literary and cultural life of the School. Head of English, Sam Farmer spearheads the highly successful Creative Writing Society, a forum that regularly convenes to nurture the considerable talents of our pupils. The Society’s success is evident, notably through the accolades received by our pupils such as the Foyle Young Poet of the Year.
The English Society, a dynamic forum, convenes several times each term to broaden the literary horizons of our pupils. The Society hosts various guest authors and poets, who conduct workshops and feature readings. Notable visitors have included luminaries like Germaine Greer, Simon Armitage, Gavin Knight, poet and photographer Martin Figure, Professor Kevin Jackson, Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy, and Christopher Reid, an Old Tonbridgian and winner of the Costa Book Award for his collection “A Scattering.”
Complementing classroom experiences, the English Department organises a range of theatre trips to London and beyond. Residential trips take boys on literary pilgrimages to Dublin and Paris. The Department’s commitment to cultivating a love for literature and fostering creative expression ensures that Tonbridge pupils leave the School with a profound appreciation for the written word and a wealth of literary experiences. Dry Hill House is home to the Film-making Society and The Tonbridgian, the School magazine, and is a wonderful creative hub and artistic safe-space within the School.
Head of Department
