WHERE NEXT FOR SOME OF OUR 2023 COHORT...?

August 17, 2023

Receiving A Level results is always a day filled with emotion, as our leavers find out the results of two years of study and where that will take them as they embark on an exciting new chapter in their lives. There have been some outstanding individual performances and our 2023 cohort should be proud of their achievements as they look forward to their future. We caught up with a few of our pupils to find out what today’s results mean for them…

Name

George Schofield

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

Maths (B), Economics (C), Computer Science (C)

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I didn't hope for anything - I just wanted to get in and get enough to get to that next stage.

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

Naval Architecture at Newcastle University.

What’s the dream job?

Design warships / submarines!

What has taken you down that path?

I have always loved ships and boats. I am captain of the school sailing team.

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

Sailing team without a doubt.

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

Hosting the sailing national finals this year.

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Sailing. I will of course continue to sail but I will miss my team.

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

Hectic but a good hectic.

Name

Lily Macdonald

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

Spanish (A*), History (A*), and Economics (A*)

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I didn't know what to expect - especially with all the negative press coverage, so I am really happy.

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

BSc in Management at the École Supérieure de Commerce de Paris (ESCP).

What’s the dream job?

I am not decided at this point – ESCP offers an internship each summer so hopefully that will help me decide as I gain more experience.

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

Too much to narrow it down to one thing! Norwich School is such an incredible community and it really does feel like a family. I’ve been here for 11 years and there have been so many opportunities to get involved in drama, music, sport, academic, clubs and societies! Plus I loved all my subjects. All the teachers have inspired me.

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

The Spanish trip to Valencia! I would just like to say the Spanish department have been incredible. We have bonded as a class and the teachers have put so much effort into our Spanish journey!

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

The people and the friendly community that it is. I feel like all the pupils but also all the staff have been so supportive throughout my time. I will miss seeing everyone every day. I will also miss my classes - I loved my lessons.

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

Unique.

Name

Jack Parfitt

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

History (B), Classical Civilisation (A), and Theatre Studies (B)

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

They were certainly the results I was hoping for but perhaps but not that way round!

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

A gap year. I want to make films so I am already working full time on my next film and have just launched a crowdfunding page. Looking at university for the future but at this stage I don’t know what I might do.

What’s the dream job?

Making films! I love acting but making films is very much my focus.

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

That's a hard one! I think I would have to say the open ended-ness – being given the liberty and freedom to be self-sufficient but in a supportive and structured environment.

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

Making my film! From developing the team to making it and then showing it! I have loved making so many creative friends.

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

The supportive environment, which has really helped me to thrive.

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

Supportive.

Name

Alastair Wyllie

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?

They were definitely the results I've been hoping and working for and I am thrilled as they will give me confidence going into the course that I can do it!

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

Aerospace Engineering at Bristol. It’s so nice not to say ‘hopefully’ after that! I’ve always been fascinated by aeroplanes.

What’s the dream job?

Love to be a wing aerodynamicist designing wings for Airbus aircraft - half the aircraft in the skies are designed and built in Britain and I’d love to be a part of that.

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

So much! I have enjoyed cathedrals, walking from lesson to lesson in the open air, friendships and co-curricular activities, singing in the choir … I simply can't pick a favourite.

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

So many I can't choose one!

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Definitely the people.

Name

Alex Illing

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?

I hoped I would have got the grades I needed to get into university, but especially with all the negative rumours in the news about results I was nervous. So I am speechless!

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

Biochemistry at Bristol - deciding between a Batchelors and an Integrated Masters.

What’s the dream job?

The world is my oyster - I will see where it goes!

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

Assembly in the Cathedral for sure. However, I have loved anything that involves the social aspects of school life, as well as the support from the school.

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

Modelling in the charity fashion show at the last minute! Such fun.

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Seeing my friends every day. Plus the familiarity - I know the school so well, it will be weird venturing out but I am excited for the new journey.

Name

Charlie Windle

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

Classical Civilization (A*), History (A*) and Latin (A*)

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I was hoping for a good set of grades but I certainly didn’t think I would have achieved at A* in Latin so I am really pleased.

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

Classical Civilisation at Cambridge University.

What’s the dream job?

I would love to do something in the world of diplomacy.

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

Definitely the musical opportunities, especially the incredible venues that we get to perform in such as the Playhouse and the Gala stage.

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

Winning the House Music competition.

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Performing in productions with my friends – it’s the best experience; you can't put it into words how much fun it is to sing in a choir.

Name

Jemima Watson

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

Chemistry (A), Biology (A*), Latin (A*)

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I wanted to be confident, but you never know!

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

I am taking a gap year and then I’m going to Exeter University to study medicine.

What’s the dream job?

Doctor!

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

The sport! It was fantastic to be appointed a red gown with the responsibility for sport. I have loved all the opportunities I have had to play and compete.

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

My first procession down the Cathedral Nave after I was appointed a red gown.

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Spending all day with my mates. Some of us have been together since Year 3!

Name

Mirha Kashif

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

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

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

They were definitely the results I was hoping for and I am delighted.

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

I am going to Newnham College, Cambridge to study Medicine

What’s the dream job?

Perhaps research once I have qualified as a doctor.

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

The teaching has always been really great with interactive and interesting lessons. I also love our surroundings, with the buildings in the Close.

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

Results Days have been good!! I am so pleased with my results today and I got 11 grade 9’s at GCSE as well!

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

I love the libraries here and I have also really enjoyed the opportunities to play cricket.

Name

Pippa Garrod

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

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

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

Very happy. It’s not even so much about the grades as the anticipation and the fact that until you get the grades you can’t make plans, so the summer has been about “what if?”. I didn’t have any idea what I would do if things didn’t go my way today so it’s a big relief as well!

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

Manchester University to study Dentistry.

What’s the dream job?

Once qualified I would like to travel and use my specialist skill to do charity based work.

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

The people - it's all about the people. Our year is such a great community and it’s been a lovely two years.

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

I have so many fond memories. I’ve genuinely had such a good time and everyone has been so kind.

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

My walk down to Horsefair – I have had so many nice walks with different people.

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

Pupil led (sorry that’s two!).

Name

George Bowyer

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

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

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I didn’t expect that no, so I am delighted.

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

Cambridge University to study Veterinary Medicine.

What’s the dream job?

Animal orthopedics and aesthetics – it would be amazing to be in a position to help injured pets. Innovation in medicine is exciting for me as well.

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

Unity. For me, what makes Norwich School special goes beyond just the people – it is our community and the sense of unity, which is felt right across the school. I also think the teachers – as a pupil it is really special knowing that there are teachers who want to push you, whilst not being negative.

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

The very special education which for me has felt tailored and individual to help me achieve what I have wanted to.

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

The Cathedral Close – what a truly special place.

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

Dynamic.

Name

Oscar Taylor

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

2D Photography (A*), Geography (A), Business Enterprise (B)

Were the results what you were expecting / hoping for?

I was really pleased, especially as I got a higher grade in Geography than I was expecting.

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

Liverpool University to study Architecture.

What’s the dream job?

I would like to go into ecofriendly architectural design - restructure the planet in a more ecofriendly way.

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

Just the whole school environment – growing up with amazing friends and people around you.

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

It’s impossible to sum up eight years in one memory, but making all the friends I have along the way has been really special.

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

The teachers, who have been so supportive.

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

Exquisite.

Name

Amy Griffiths

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

Latin (A*), Classical Civilisation (A*), English (A)

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

Oxford University to study Classical Civilisation.

What’s the dream job?

Teach, but possibly also put some of my music ‘out there’ and see what happens!

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

The people for sure. However, I also feel that for pupils here, whatever you put into your school career, you get back, so really the world is your oyster.

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

My first red gown procession down the Cathedral Nave when it hit me that I was a Red Gown! Footloose was also a highlight – especially the pink cowboy hat!

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

The Classics Department - I will be back to visit!

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

Rewarding.

Name

May Maclennan

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

French (A*), Spanish (A*), Maths (A*)

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

Cambridge University to study Asian and Middle Eastern Studies with Mandarin.

What’s the dream job?

Something in the Foreign Office.

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

The support you get from teachers – I remember meeting with Dr Farr really early on and telling him my dream was to go to Cambridge University and his reply was “we will set you on that path.”!

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

All the times that the school celebrates and rewards success – there is something really special about getting a handshake from the Head which says you have done something well.

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Spending time with friends.

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

Fulfilling.

Name

Ann Kalu

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

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

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

University College London to study Medicine.

What’s the dream job?

Not sure yet! Obviously finish my degree but perhaps research.

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

The opportunities and chances you get here that are so unique.

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

The Sixth Form trip when we all went to Go Ape - even when I got stuck halfway down the wire.

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Everything! Especially the Cathedral Close – it’s such a special place to grow up and spend high school; so beautiful and peaceful.

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

Exciting.

Name

Max Clayton

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

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

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

Witten-Herdecke University in Germany to study Dentistry – it was a bit of a last minute application, and the interview was 2 days after my last A Level! They asked me to do an academic and practical assessment as part of the interview process, the practical part of which involved doing origami, so immediately after finishing my A Levels I was frantically learning the art of paper folding! Thankfully it went well and I was given an unconditional offer!

What’s the dream job?

Dentistry – probably in Germany.

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

Assemblies – singing together, especially Jerusalem!

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

Starting the day with a hymn!

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

Eating lunch with my friends and the amazing Refectory food!

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

I can give you two – supportive and friendly.

Name

Betsy James

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

2D Photography (A*), English Literature (A), Classical Civilisation (A)

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

Royal Holloway to study English and Digital Art.

What’s the dream job?
I will be happy as long as it is working with books – I could be an editor or working at Waterstones - I just want to be surrounded by stories.

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

Everything! I started off as this awkward little Year 6 pupil and have developed so much over the years. I am particularly proud that having been diagnosed with autism in June 2022, the school has supported me so that my education hasn’t suffered. I have been able to learn remotely when I needed to and it was never assumed that I couldn’t do anything – I was always asked “would you like to?” instead of assuming I wouldn’t be able to. So, the diagnosis gave me the answers I needed and enabled me and my family to communicate with teachers and staff members to give me amazing opportunities.

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

The Cloister Play this year was so much for the performers as well as the audiences. I also loved playing the earth worm in the L4 production of James and the Giant Peach at the Playhouse.

What will you miss most about being at Norwich School?

The productions, without a doubt. Performing has always been my favourite bit and I have made the closet friends via theatre. Every year I was part of something and it has been so rewarding.

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

That's impossible! I can't. I think it is different for everyone.

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David Rudden Inspires Young Writers

By Eleanor Lewis • November 19, 2025

On Tuesday 19 November, an author called Dave Rudden came to the Blake Studio to tell us about being an author and how we could become one too! He talked about his latest book called ‘Conn of the Dead’ as well as well his trilogy of books called ‘Knights of the Borrowed Dark’. The trilogy is about a 13-year-old boy who is slowly turning into iron and ends up saving the world. He also talked about his family and friends. He told us one of his friends head-butted a Darth Vader actor, saying to his parents “run, save yourselves!” It was really funny! After lunch, I learned some pointers about how to write a story. Dave taught us about ‘person, place, problem’. This means first deciding on your character and their features. After that, decide on the setting or place, where and what it looks like. Finally, you should decide on a problem for the characters to face, for example, defeating some monsters. He said to add in the others details slowly as you go. We practiced writing a story using this method. I most enjoyed the afternoon when Dave was teaching us about being an author and when he gave us a copy of his most recent book! I hadn’t considered being an author, but Dave has inspired me to try! By Henry Bulman U3I

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.

Repton Operation Christmas Child - Shoe Box Appeal November 2025

By Eleanor Lewis • November 18, 2025

Mrs Curtis, keen to again achieve the remarkable success of the 2024 shoe box appeal, challenged Repton to donate (toys, stationery, clothing, soap and flannels etc.) again this year. The operation aimed to fill at least one shoe box per Repton tutor group, with items useful or uplifting to the struggling children of the world, and to send them to these children in need. Last term the donations began, and a mountain of gifts donated by many generous Reptonites and their families formed in the JBR. The Repton tutor groups also got hands-on and put together the shoe boxes that the donations were each packed into, which was then done by a hard-working team of pupils. Boxes were organised and labelled by this team, who then on each box left warming messages such as: ‘Happy Christmas from Repton House, Norwich School, UK.’ Last year, Mrs Curtis anticipated that 7 boxes would be filled – one from each tutor group - and was met with the welcome surprise of a total of 40 boxes. This year, in a display of special festive kindness and thanks to the generosity the students showed, the team managed to fill a staggering 50 boxes, smashing the appeal, and demonstrating that when everyone chips in, a real difference can be made. We may never see the effect of this year’s donations; however, we can only hope that they lifted many Christmas spirits across the world. In which case, a massive thank you is due to all who donated, pupils, parents and friends, and of course to Mrs Curtis, who organised the appeal and drove the 50 packed boxes to our local drop-off point! Report by Theo Hunter (L6 Repton)

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.