Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys

TODAY. TOMORROW. TOGETHER. campaign

“A school that encourages its students to be the best they can be”

During the summer term 2018, we were invited to visit Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys (TWGSB) in Kent where we met Amanda Simpson, Headteacher.  She gave us a tour of the current site, especially the Sixth Form Centre which was housing over 400 boys although it was built for just over 100 originally.

Our first step was to undertake a Feasibility Study where we interviewed fifty members of the TWGSB community such as staff, Governors, parents, alumni and, of course current students.  It soon became apparent that this “true community grammar school” was in urgent need of a new Sixth Form Centre, particularly as KCC (Kent County Council) had committed to a £7.5 million building programme for years 7-11 which would include sports, new Teaching Block and dining facilities.  However, funding for Sixth Form provision was not available. 

Through the Study, we were able to devise a capital fundraising strategy which we presented to Governors, chaired by Dr Philip Drew.  We were then engaged to direct the campaign which had a target of £750,000 towards the £1.5 million build with KCC matching the target through a loan. 

Amanda Simpson, the Headteacher, was very clear about the importance of the new Centre and said, “The new Sixth Form Centre will be so much more than its bricks and mortar.  It will be where our students have the space to grow and learn independently and collaboratively”.

The first task we undertook with Amanda was building a strong leadership team, the Campaign Board, which was led by a current parent, Garry Gatt.  He was a tremendous Chair and used his extensive knowledge and expertise in building developments to ensure the school planned their new building meticulously, using the best contractors and getting the best prices. 

We followed tried and tested capital fundraising methods and through a series of receptions at the school (and tours of the dilapidated Sixth Form) for parents, followed by face-to-face meetings we were able to reach the £750,000 target, despite Covid lockdowns.

In early 2022 we were delighted to visit the completed new Sixth Form Centre, which provides aspirational, flexible working spaces with silent and quiet study areas as well as a 40+ position ICT suite and lockers. 

TWGSB are the finest of examples of what determination, courage and fortitude can achieve when a group of inspired people care passionately about a cause. We are so proud to have played a part in their success!