To combine innovation and 21st century initiatives with a respect for traditional and history is one of the challenges facing the great independent schools of the UK. At Tonbridge, they manage to achieve that balance in a unique and exciting way. Founded in 1553 under Letters Patent of King Edward VI, the school holds within its alumni the author E.M. Forster, the scientist Norman Heatley and the cricketer Sir Colin Cowdrey. However such history is not holding Tonbridge back from building for the future.
Having overhauled the library and expanded a learning centre in 2017, Tonbridge has now embarked on the construction of a new world class science centre at the cost of over £20 million. The new building will provide state of the art classroom facilities and enhanced space for practical work. It will also herald the start of a new era of connectedness between the disciplines of science at Tonbridge and allow a collaboration between Tonbridge boys and external scientific organisations, such as universities and leading corporates. The science centre will adjoin the school’s digital creativity department which has brought together the disciplines of programming, app design, computer science, digital image manipulation and video production.
With the recent modernisation of all boarding accommodation, a brand new £12 million sports centre, numerous new classrooms and the Old Big School Art Gallery, Tonbridge can certainly boast its arts, sports, pastoral and academic facilities are second to none. The traditions run deep, but Tonbridge is a leader in embracing a 21st century education.
Further details about Tonbridge School can be found at www.tonbridge-school.co.uk