Lucas

When Lucas looks back on his time at KES Prep, one memory stands out: “The Year 6 trip to France,” he recalls. “We visited World War II museums, and I really remember that sense of understanding what life was like for people back then. It made history feel real. 

Now, as a Year 7 student at KES Senior, Lucas is fully immersed in the excitement and challenges of senior school life. “At first, I’ll be honest, the size of KES felt huge,” he says. “It was so different from KES Prep. But it’s amazing how quickly it starts to feel normal. Everyone’s friendly, and you find your way.”  

Discovering a Love for Drama & Performance  

What stands out in Lucas’s story is just how varied and fulfilling his school life has become. “There’s so much to get involved in,” he says. “I was in The Lion King production -  I was part of the ensemble, and we had rehearsals most weeks. It was a lot of fun. I loved the dancing, the acting, all of it.”  

Lucas has always enjoyed Drama, and he’s already working towards his LAMDA Grade 5. But it’s not just performing that inspires him. “English and Drama are definitely my favourite subjects,” he says. “They let you be creative and think differently. You get to write, imagine and try out ideas. It’s not just about learning something -  it’s about exploring what you can do with it.” 

Unleashing Creative Potential  

That creative spark was ignited during his time at KES Prep. “Before I came to Prep, I hadn’t really done Art or DT before,” he explains. “But at KES Prep, there were all these new subjects to try. Suddenly I was doing Music, DT, Art — and I loved it. Even now, I wouldn’t say I’m amazing at them, but I really enjoy how different and creative they are and that I get to continue to learn about them here at KES.”  

Finding Success on the Sports Field  

Sport is another part of Lucas’s life that’s grown since joining KES. “We do rugby, hockey and cricket across the year, and hockey’s probably my favourite. I’ve played it the longest. I had some trials in May to become a goal keeper for Hampshire, which was really exciting. I look forward to finding out the results.”  

Striking the Right Balance  

What’s clear is that Lucas is growing not just in skill, but in confidence and balance. “I try not to fill every bit of my time,” he says. “I get my homework done, then I’ve either got clubs or I’m hanging out with friends. It works well. You can be busy without it being too much.”  

A Love for Latin  

One unexpected highlight? Latin. “I didn’t think I’d ever learn Latin,” Lucas admits. “I thought it was one of those subjects no one really studies any more. But it’s one of my favourites. Once you get into it, you start noticing how many English words come from Latin - it just makes sense. It’s really satisfying.”  

Reflecting on Success and Dreams  

Lucas is someone who reflects carefully on what motivates him. “My dream school day? Probably Sport in the morning, then English and Drama. Lunch, then maybe Geography and Latin. That would be a pretty great day.”  

And when it comes to moments of pride, he’s thoughtful. “It’s probably when I get a good result in a test. I work hard, I revise at home, so when it goes well, it feels like I’ve earned it. I’m proud of that.”  

He adds, “I think I’m most proud of how many things I get to do. The clubs, the sport, the Latin, LAMDA... it’s a lot, but I can only do it because KES makes it all possible. If those opportunities weren’t here, I wouldn’t even have the chance to discover what I enjoy.”  

A Message for Future Pupils  

When asked what he’d say to a friend who might be thinking about coming to KES, Lucas offers this: “Don’t worry if it feels big at first, it becomes familiar quickly. People are kind, and there’s always someone around to help. It’s just a really good place to be.”  

And if he had to describe KES in three words? “Busy, friendly, fun.”  

Looking Towards a Boundless Future  

Lucas is still deciding what the future might look like, but for now, he’s embracing every opportunity. “I want to carry on with Drama and English. Maybe more sport too. I like a lot of the subjects, so it’ll be hard to choose.”  

He sums it up with quiet confidence: “It’s easy to imagine a boundless future at KES. There’s so much going on and so much to try. Whatever you’re into, there’s something for you.”