Kimbolton School’s Senior School Speech Day took place on Saturday, 24 May, bringing together pupils, families, staff and governors for a meaningful and uplifting event marking the end of this half of term.
Held in the marquee on The Mall, the day served as a proud finale to this year’s series of prize giving celebrations. Guests were welcomed by Chairman of Governors, Mr Jonathan Gray and the ceremony was led by Headmaster, Mr Will Chuter, who reflected on Kimbolton’s 425th anniversary and what this milestone represents for the School today.
Mr Chuter paid tribute to the strength of the Kimbolton community — a kind and warm environment underpinned by strong values that continue to shape every pupil’s experience. He extended particular thanks to the Upper Sixth pupils, recognising their contributions as hardworking, fun and engaged leaders across all areas of school life. In a moment of reflection, he noted that the past 425 years have shown how things change, but in many ways remain the same — with the passion and legacy of people continuing to shape the School’s enduring story.
Speech Day recognised pupil achievements across all year groups, with prizes awarded for academic excellence, endeavour, house involvement, service, co-curricular contribution and leadership. From First Form to Upper Sixth, each award celebrated the individual efforts and character of pupils who have gone above and beyond in school life.
Head Girl Ruby L. and Head Boy Christian L. each shared heartfelt reflections on their time at Kimbolton, expressing gratitude to the staff, friends and families who have supported their journeys. Christian also offered a thoughtful vote of thanks on behalf of the pupil body.
The School was honoured to welcome Mr Peter and Mrs Anne Templeton as special guests to present this year’s prizes. The Templetons founded the William Templeton Foundation for Young People’s Mental Health (YPMH) in memory of their son, Will, an Old Kimboltonian, who sadly passed away in 2018. Their charity is dedicated to improving young people’s mental health by driving progress in prevention, early intervention and sustainable recovery, with a focus on innovative and evidence-based approaches.
In his address, Mr Templeton spoke about the importance of nurturing good mental health, highlighting the role that nutrition and everyday habits can play in supporting wellbeing. He encouraged pupils to stay curious and open-minded and to look for ways to make a meaningful difference in a world that, while often challenging, is also full of opportunity.
The morning concluded with refreshments on the West Lawn and the traditional Headmaster’s XI vs 1st XI cricket match — a relaxed and joyful end to a memorable occasion.
Senior School Speech Day 2025 not only honoured individual achievement but also celebrated 425 years of Kimbolton’s evolving story — one grounded in tradition, values and the strength of its people. The School extends warmest congratulations to all prize-winners and best wishes to the Upper Sixth as they prepare for their next chapter beyond the Castle walls.
