King's School Rochester Weekly News

Friday 13th March 2026
Nicholas Inspires Lower Sixth with EY Apprenticeship Insights


We were thrilled to welcome back OR Nicholas Rogers, who shared his journey six months into his apprenticeship at EY (Ernst & Young). Nicholas offered our Lower Sixth a candid look at the professional world beyond the traditional university route.

The Path to a Top-Tier Firm Success wasn't down to luck; Nicholas submitted 28 applications to secure his spot. Now based in London, he balances a demanding "9 to 5" schedule with rigorous exams. His key takeaway? Persistence and early preparation are non-negotiable.

Breaking the "Missing Out" Myth
Pupils often fear apprenticeships lack the social perks of university. Nicholas debunked this, highlighting EY’s vibrant culture:

Social & Networking: A packed calendar of events and networking functions.
Community: Active participation in sporting groups and peer support.
The Big Win: Starting a career without student debt while gaining a four-year head start on graduates.

Surprising Skillsets
Though working in finance, Nicholas credited Religious Studies for his professional ethics and Economics (where he earned an A* under Mr White) for his foundational knowledge. His advice was simple: 'The exams aren't hard if you truly put in the work.'


Zetountes Lecture: Quantum Atomistic Simulations


Dr Ben Williamson, OR, delivered the latest Zetountes Lecture, focussing on his work as a Senior Researcher in Quantum Atomistic Simulations at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Trondheim.

His fascinating online talk examined atomic theory, the importance of computer modelling in scientific research and the implications of his research on solid state electrolytes in the development of batteries for, amongst other things, electric cars.

Ben attended King's between 2005 and 2010 and it was especially powerful for our Scholars and chemists to appreciate that their future goals are realistic and attainable.

The first speaker to make use of our new Rochester Bridge Trust STEM Hub, Ben also noted that it was the Norwegian Odd Hassel who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1969, shared with English chemist Derek Barton, also a King's alumnus. Who knows if any of the attendees will achieve similar success!

We are grateful to Dr Williamson for giving of his time and expertise so generously to inspire our pupils.


DigiCon at the Corn Exchange


Our Year 8 Digital Leaders, alongside our Year 8 Council representative, had the exciting opportunity to attend DigiCon at the Corn Exchange in Rochester. The event was organised by the Medway Youth Council and aimed to gather the views and opinions of young people across Medway on important issues linked to technology and digital life.

Throughout the day, pupils took part in a range of engaging workshops focused on key topics including social media, AI, mobile phone use and online safety. These sessions encouraged pupils to think carefully about the impact technology has on their everyday lives and the wider challenges that young people face in an increasingly digital world.

One of the most valuable aspects of the event was the opportunity for pupils to participate in live debates at their tables, where they were encouraged to share and defend their viewpoints. Many of our pupils demonstrated great confidence and maturity, discussing complex issues thoughtfully and respectfully. They also had the chance to contribute to the wider event by taking the microphone and sharing their opinions with the whole room.

The final session of the day gave pupils the chance to hear from a panel of important local figures, including Councillor Simon Curry, a representative from Medway Health and Wellbeing Services, a police officer who works with young people in Medway, and the leader of the Medway Youth Council. This session was particularly impactful, as pupils were able to put forward the questions they had been developing throughout the day and seek answers to some of the pressing issues that technology presents for young people today.

The trip was an excellent opportunity for our pupils to represent the School, develop their confidence and engage with real issues affecting their lives and communities. We were incredibly proud of the way they conducted themselves and the thoughtful contributions they made throughout the event.


Lovely ladies gift stall 


A huge thank you to the King’s Parent Supporters (KPS) for organising this week’s wonderful Lovely Ladies gift stall. Pupils from Nursery to Year 8 have thoroughly enjoyed selecting special treats for the mums and mother figures in their lives. We wish all our families a very happy and relaxing Mothering Sunday!