The Judd School News Feed - OJ News

Dates for OJ Diaries

Wed, 5 Nov 2025 13:02:19 GMT

You'd be most welcome to join us at the following school events:

Wed 05 Nov: Cross Country: National Schools' Cup Regional Final

Tuesday 11 Nov: Remembrance Service at the School Gate

Tue 25 Nov: Winter Concert, Schoolroom

Mon 15 Dec: Xmas Carol Service, Tonbridge School Chapel

Tues 24 Mar: Spring Concert

Thurs 25 June: Summer Concert

Sat 04 July: Judd Community Day

Please refer to the Judd live calendar for the most up-to-date information, as it is dynamically maintained with the latest scheduling information.

The Most Reverend Richard Moth installed as Archbishop of Westminster and head of the Catholic Church in England and Wales

Fri, 6 Mar 2026 14:25:25 GMT

On Saturday, 14th February 2026, Old Juddian Richard Moth was installed as the 12th Archbishop of Westminster at an Installation Mass in Westminster Cathedral. His installation followed the public reading of Pope Leo XIV’s Apostolic by the Chancellor of the Diocese of Westminster. He was then presented with the Westminster crozier, symbol of his office as bishop by Cardinal Vincent Nichols. After being greeted as the new Archbishop by the clergy and others from the Westminster dioceses, he was then greeted by The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally on behalf of the co-presidents of Churches Together in England.

In memory of Graham Archer CMG: 4th July 1939 – 12th January 2026

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 09:57:41 GMT

The Old Juddian Society recently learnt of the death of Graham Archer CMG. Graham’s wife of 62 years, Pauline kindly wrote to the Society to inform us of his sad passing.

Celebrating The Old Juddian Society 101st Annual Dinner

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 18:53:27 GMT

Following the incredible milestone of our Centenary last year, the Old Juddian Society was delighted to welcome alumni back to the school on Saturday, 14th June 2025, for our 101st Annual Dinner.

Judd '52 Year Group Reunion - June 2025

Tue, 3 Feb 2026 11:34:43 GMT

On 3rd June 2025 Neil Wickens, one of our Judd '52 year group, returned to the UK from Australia to meet up with 5 of us octogenerians for lunch at the Carpenters Arms nr Hadlow and to reminisce ours lives since first meeting 73 years ago at Judd!

Photos from the 100th OJ Dinner

Fri, 23 May 2025 13:06:23 GMT

Angus Hall (OJ 2024) visits Judd

Tue, 20 May 2025 09:40:45 GMT

On Friday 9th May, the school was delighted to welcome OJ Angus Hall back into school where he gave an assembly to lower school students around his time at the Judd and his exploits as a professional rugby player since leaving. He shared that he is continuing with his studies at Hertfordshire University whilst balancing the requirements of full time training with Saracens.

The students joined in a Q&A, asking questions ranging from what Angus does on a day-to-day basis as a professional athlete, to where he played his school boy club rugby and what he thinks about when tackling other players.

Many of the students were inspired by his visit. They had a great time and were able to have their shirts signed and selfies taken with the England U20 World Champion and Saracens Mens’ player. The following day he played in the team’s 75-28 win over Newcastle.

We are extremely proud of Angus and his achievements and grateful that he was able to deliver the school a framed Saracens shirt from his debut match.

Ekansh Singh (OJ 2024) Kent Cricket Club debut

Tue, 20 May 2025 09:38:55 GMT

On the 9th May 2025, OJ Ekansh Singh made his first-class professional debut for Kent Mens Cricket Club. Following on from his selection in England U19 teams last summer, Ekansh has been working throughout the winter at Durham University and having played numerous times for the 2nd XI and scoring runs for Durham 1st XI, he got his opportunity for the 1st XI this week against Glamorgan at the Spitfire Ground in Canterbury. He received his cap from England international Joe Denly.

We are all extremely proud of the progress he has made with his cricket over the recent seasons and wish him well for the rest of the cricket season this summer.

Attached is a link to his post-play interview after his first day.

In remembrance of John V. Richman

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 14:28:53 GMT

John Richman, more commonly known as “Richie” to his friends, was not only the archetypal Juddian but a notable extrovert with a great and engaging personality.
When he left The Judd School in 1953, he could look back on a period of considerable sporting activity covering rugby, cricket, gymnastics, boxing, swimming, athletics and cross-country.
As a prefect, he did not try to lord it over the younger members of the school and in fact one new entrant recalls that his friendly, jovial face among a sea of new faces was a welcome relief and made a great and lasting impression. Another “first former” recalled his taking charge of “us smalls” in a party on a geography walk to Hayesden, when he suddenly disappeared into
the local pub and emerged with crisps and peanuts for us 11-year-olds and a pint for himself !
Post Judd, he joined the Old Juddian Society and was Chairman during the period 1991-92. However it was later on when the OJS Society decided to venture into the realms of performing Music Halls that Richie more than adequately performed the role of Chairman on the three occasions in 2001, 2004 and 2008 when we packed the Judd School Room. He always opened each of the six performances that we ran in the very same way saying “Ladies and gentlemen, a very warm welcome on this wet, wild and windy Wednesday evening”. In reality, it was never wet, wild or windy and was never on a Wednesday evening but Richie never let facts get in the way of a good
story !

Talking of good stories, another of Richie’s attributes was the ability to tell stories and jokes involving a broad range of accents, with fantastic timing, emphasis and inclination to ensure his audience would laugh until the tears ran!
mile”

History of the Old Juddian RFC 1927-1999

Wed, 2 Apr 2025 14:07:41 GMT

In 1999 the Old Juddian RFC merged with the Tonbridge RFC to establish the Tonbridge Juddians RFC.

Last year was the 25th Anniversary of the new Club and several of us decided it was the right time to write the history of the OJRFC.

Gary Martin (Judd 1968-75) agreed to take on the task as Editor supported by a small working group and particularly on the wealth of archive material from Tony Russell (Judd 1951-58)

Attached is a flyer introducing the book and the ways and means of obtaining a copy of this limited first edition print run which will be formally launched at the last TJ's home game on Sat. 12 April 2025.

Saracens first start

Tue, 1 Apr 2025 08:40:38 GMT

A huge congratulations to Angus Hall, our 2024 Rugby captain, who scored a sensational try on his first start for Saracens.

Dr John Ray - Funeral

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 09:12:23 GMT

John Ray attended The Judd in 1940s. He had fond memories and often talked about his school days throughout his life.

John peacefully passed away on the 10th March 2025 at the age of 95.

John was very proud of being an Old Juddian and became a teacher himself. He graduated at Canterbury University with a PhD in History.

A memorial service for John will held on the 15th April at 12pm at St Peters and St Paul's Tonbridge.

John Richman (1947-53)- Funeral

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 11:07:32 GMT

John was at Judd 1947 to 1953 and played an important part in School plays and the School Drama Society. He was OJS Chairman in 1991 (School Centenary Year) and also years 2004-6. John was a stalwart of both the OJS & OJRFC. For details of the funeral please see the attachments.

In memory of Ann Gorvett

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 09:20:04 GMT

Ann Gorvett, a hugely kind-hearted German teacher who taught at Judd from 1993 to 2008, passed away on Friday 15th November 2024 after a long illness.

Carol Service

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 11:09:15 GMT

You are invited to join us on Monday 8th December at Tonbridge School Chapel at 19.00pm for our carol service.

Please RSVP by emailing ojcommunity@judd.kent.sch.uk or by telephone 01732 770 880.

AGM Minutes

Mon, 4 Nov 2024 10:23:45 GMT

Please find the AGM minutes and the OJ's Constitution and Rules from our latest meeting attached below.

Remembrance Day and Carol Service

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 10:46:33 GMT

You are invited to attend a Remembrance Day Service at the school on Friday 8th November 2024. There will be a wreath laying service at the school. We hope you are able to join us from 10.30am.

You are also invited to join us on Monday 8th December at Tonbridge School Chapel at 19.00pm for our carol service. Please RSVP by emailing ojcommunity@judd.kent.sch.uk or calling 01732 770 880.

Save the date

Wed, 2 Oct 2024 14:55:12 GMT

Our Annual OJ Dinner will take place on Saturday 14th June 2025. More details to follow.

Old Juddian Society AGM - Tuesday 22nd October 2024

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 16:00:05 GMT

Notice for the Annual General Meeting

The Annual General Meeting will be held at 8.00pm on Tuesday 22nd October 2024 at the school and will be held in person, should there be an interest in attending the meeting online we will provide a link.

Please see the attachment for the full notice and agenda.

Please RSVP to nprendergast@judd.kent.sch.uk and confirm whether you wish to attend online or in person.

Save the date - Annual OJ Dinner

Our Annual OJ Dinner will take place on Saturday 14th June 2025. More details to follow.

Ekansh plays for U19 England

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 09:53:56 GMT

Ekansh recently completed his A levels with us this Summer , we were delighted to hear that he had been called up to play in the England U19's last week, playing in both the Ireland and Scotland games. We are thrilled to see him out on the pitch and wish him all the best both on and off the pitch. Well done Ekansh, we will be watching and supporting with interest.

Maxim finishes on a high

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 10:00:20 GMT

Maxim completed his A levels at the school this summer and recently competed in the World Acrobatics Championships in Portugal.

The competition was very intense and Maxim & his partner Lena competed against 18 mixed pairs from all over the world, including from Australia, US, Ukraine, Kazakhstan and Israel. After two strong performances Maxim & Lena qualified for the finals and achieved 5th place in the final.

OJ's Debut Novel

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 10:01:04 GMT

We received the exciting news from OJ, Seth Insua, Seth attended Judd from 2000 to 2007. His debut literary fiction novel is being published in February next year.

You can read more about it here: https://www.sethinsua.com/writing

Hearplay

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 14:18:07 GMT

Hi Juddians!I

I'm an ex-Judd student and just launched Hearplay - An app that takes you from struggling with piano to playing any song by ear in minutes. No sheet music, no theory, just hearing and playing. It's like Duolingo for piano.

If you download it now, you can get the app with the links below completely for free! Be sure to let any family or friends know as well so they can try it out too!

App store: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/hearplay-play-piano-by-ear/id6472682837

Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.hearplay.hearplayapp

James Telfer

Co-Founder

In memory of Paul Boyce

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 13:46:42 GMT

Paul Boyce, Judd teacher 1964 to 1997, passed away peacefully at Forth Valley Royal Hospital on
11 th July 2024, aged 88 years. Paul was a beloved husband of Caroline, a much loved father of Jo
and Tim (1978-85) and adored grandfather and great-grandfather.

OJ Centenary Dinner

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 10:47:20 GMT

On Saturday 8th June the Old Juddians' Society were delighted to welcome over 200 OJ's back to the school for their Centenary Dinner.

Proceedings were scheduled to start with a reception in the School Room at 6.30 p.m.,
however, some OJ’s were so keen to start the festivities that they began arriving just after
6 p.m. Fortunately we had just finished setting up and stocking the bar so there was beer
on hand to satisfy the early revellers. Old friends were reunited and conversation was mingled with music superbly played by the school musicians.

Patrick R Dibble 1937 - 2023

Fri, 10 May 2024 10:11:06 GMT

Pat Dibble entered The Judd School in 1948 and left in 1953

Old Juddians Society - New Future First Portal

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 15:42:26 GMT

We are very excited to introduce a new partnership for the Old Juddians Society and broader network of friends and supporters of the school with Future First, a social mobility charity. With their support, we are aiming to build on the strengths of the current Old Juddians Society (which this year holds its 100th Annual Dinner), in its long-standing history and connection with our alumni.

Sam raises money for CRY

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 15:25:39 GMT

Thank you to all the staff, parents and alumni for generously contributing to Sam's fundraising efforts which saw him raise a total of £4,620 for CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young) in memory of his cousin Sebastian English who died aged 15, twenty years ago.

Sam ran it in 2:45;32 which beat his expected time by 5 mins, this a great achievement and a personal best to be immensely proud of.

Old Juddian 100th Dinner

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 14:15:40 GMT

Please find attached an invitation to the Old Juddian Society 100^th Dinner at the school on the 8^th June 2024.

We are expecting a large number of responses so if you would like to come please ensure you book as soon as possible by making the payment and completing the menu form.

I look forward to meeting you on the evening.

Kind regards

Howard Dolling,

Chairman, Old Juddian Society

OJ Latest Accounts

Thu, 7 Mar 2024 13:40:29 GMT

The OJ Accounts for 2023 can be found attached below.

John Carman

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 10:59:32 GMT

Geoff Pettitt, Chris Wickham and I (Howard Dolling) attended, on behalf of the Old Juddian Society, the funeral of our dear friend John Carman at Southend Crematorium on 8^th February. There follows the eulogy which the family had compiled to commemorate John’s life.

Sad news of Mr Geoffrey Taylor former Deputy Headteacher

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 08:36:14 GMT

This week we had the sad news that Geoffrey Taylor died at home on 1 December 2023. He was the Deputy Head at Judd from September 1974 until August 1995 when he began a long association with he Open University.

Memories of Bob Hales 1930-2023

Wed, 6 Dec 2023 08:31:51 GMT

We were sad to hear of the death of Bob Hales, a past chairman and Life Member of the Old Juddian Society and a Life Member of the then Old Juddian RFC.

OJ wins Classical Ivors Innovation Award

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 14:37:19 GMT

Matthew Herbert OJ (1983 – 1990), was awarded the Classical Ivors Innovation award for 2023 at BFI, South Bank Centre earlier this month. This was in recognition of his creative work as a composer and sound artist. The Classical Ivors are Classical Music’s equivalent of the Oscars for composers! The whole evening was recorded and is available on BBC Sounds.

OJ Bryan Winter (18th September 1929 – 22nd September 2023)

Wed, 1 Nov 2023 11:45:35 GMT

It is with sadness that we share the passing of Bryan Winter. Bryan was a a wonderful man – a loving, caring, family man; busy, community-spirited, organised, intelligent, gregarious, happy …the list could go on. Please see the full eulogy.

Senior Prize Giving

Thu, 5 Oct 2023 09:20:34 GMT

Howard Dolling our OJ Chairman recently attended the Senior Prize Giving which took place in the chapel of Tonbridge School on the evening of 12^th September. He says, 'It was a privilege to witness the achievements of these wonderful young people and we are proud to publish here the speeches given by Dan Gregson, the school’s head boy and Annabelle Hales, the school's head girl at the end of the evening. As they leave for university, apprenticeships, gap year, employment or whatever the future holds for them, we wish them well and thank them for their contribution to school life'.

OJ's excelling in Community National Rugby

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 15:49:54 GMT

Congratulations to many of our OJs and our current teachers Mr Dawson and Mr Packman for all making winning starts in their National League fixtures during the opening days of the new season!

It is wonderful to see Luke, Louis, Henry & Tom all receive Man of the Match awards. It was great to see Alex Everett make a try scoring return to Top Level Rugby in the Championship with Cornish Pirates after serious injury. He is continuing where he left off, having been voted Player of the Season last year.

Keep going all of you!

Keyan O'Donnell - OJ represents GB

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 12:38:32 GMT

Congratulations to Keyan who recently represented GB U23 in the world championships 4X skulling. They were a development team, one of the youngest (with Keyan being the youngest GB athlete at 20). They came 4th in the world! We are So happy for them.

Mike Dobson's Memorial lunch

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 10:02:35 GMT

On a lovely sunny Saturday in mid-August, the Old Juddian Dining Club met in Hildenborough
for the second time to remember and celebrate the life of one of their own Mike Dobson.

100th Dinner of the Old Juddian Society

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 09:13:31 GMT

We are delighted to announce that the 100th Dinner of the Old Juddian Society will be held at the school on 8th June 2024. Please click on the letter below for all the details.

Obituary - Professor (Emeritus) Clive Nancarrow - Judd 1959-65

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 08:49:19 GMT

Clive Nancarrow died at home in Wales, with his wife and rescue dogs beside him, on 8 June
2023. He was 76. He learned last year that he had advanced and incurable cancer. He was
not in pain.

Old Juddian Society Constitution & Rules and Minutes from latest EGM

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 08:52:25 GMT

The Old Juddian Society held an Extraordinary General Meeting on 27 March. The minutes from that meeting and the constitution and rules of the Society are attached.

Terry Burgess memorial

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 13:21:30 GMT

On July 14^th 2022, former pupil Terence Burgess sadly passed away from Covid-19 related complications at the age of 86.

OJ Society Annual Dinner

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 10:07:45 GMT

Book either by cheque payable to OJS sent to the Judd School attention Nicola Prendergast or by Bank transfer to:

The Judd School (School Fund)

Sort Code: 30 98 63

Account no: 00984310

Annotated: "Name & OJS"

Message from our new OJ Chairman

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 13:02:43 GMT

Greetings fellow Old Juddians, please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Howard Dolling and I was
elected as the chairman of the OJS at the recent AGM on 6 th December. It is a great honour for me to hold this
office, especially when I reflect on the many worthy characters who have gone before me, including my
father-in-law Bob Burgess, who was chairman.

OJ competes for England

Thu, 3 Nov 2022 15:29:35 GMT

OJ Harry Kendall represented England at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games in the Decathlon.

Old Juddian Society AGM

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 11:36:45 GMT

Notice for the 119th Annual General Meeting

Class of 1952 Reunion

Wed, 2 Nov 2022 12:51:18 GMT

The boys who entered Judd for the first time in September 1952, together with “guests” from the 1951 and 1953 entries, held their ninth or Platinum Reunion on 17th and 18th September 2022.

OJ Rugby News

Wed, 2 Nov 2022 13:54:46 GMT

98th Old Juddian Society Dinner

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 09:00:15 GMT