The Reed's Community

Sam joined Reed’s in Year (Third Form) from a local prep school and his older brother was already at Reed’s.

Why did you decide to come to Reed's?

Choosing to join Reed’s was a mixture of different factors. For one, my brother was already at the school which I knew would make me less nervous joining, although looking back at my journey joining the school, the community that you are welcomed into makes joining Reed’s such an easy and exciting experience. That was a very small factor in my decision however. When I looked around the school, I was met with an incredible display of facilities ranging from the amazing Indoor Cricket Centre to the FutureTech building, the fantastic Sixth Form Centre to the thriving Music department. The opportunities just seemed endless to me and straight away stood out from any other school I had previously visited. As a keen music student, the Music department pulled me in with the wide variety of different ensembles on offer. Although I was a big footballer, I didn’t miss it at Reed’s with the advanced levels of sport on offer and I soon found a love for hockey. Once you reach Year 10 (Fourth Form) you get a variety of different sports to choose from, providing a sport for every pupil. After seeing the different academic departments and teachers it was apparent to me that the academics at this school were incredible too and the ability of the teachers to inspire is next level. I can confidently say the teachers have helped me progress so much, not just academically, but also morally as a person.

Which teacher has inspired you the most and why?

All of my teachers at Reed’s have inspired academic excellence in me while not fearing failure, encouraging me to take every opportunity, even if its outside your comfort zone, and to take on Andrew Reed’s values to shape our morals. However, the teacher that has inspired me the most is the Head of Music, Mr Willey. My growth as a person is largely down to his kindness, compassion and generosity. As well as shaping me morally, he constantly inspires me to take on different musical roles, improving not only my musical ability but also my confidence. The countless shows and concerts he’s put on is truly extraordinary. I’ve had the opportunity to perform at Cadogan Hall, King’s Place and Guildford Cathedral to name just a few. Mr Willey is an inspiration, not just to me, but to everyone that is involved in the music at Reed’s.

What would you say is your favourite moment so far during your time at Reed's?

My favourite moment so far was being part of the Grease production – it was an amazing experience and one I will never forget. There was such a sense of teamwork and camaraderie with all the actors and musicians and I loved every minute of it! The house events are also such fun to take part in and get stuck into as there’s a real sense of community and involvement. With a house event almost every Friday its’ so easy to get involved and enjoy yourself.

Do you think the co-curricular experience at Reed's has benefitted you?

It definitely has because there are so many opportunities available and you are exposed to such a large variety of activities to really enjoy and get involved with, developing your skills and confidence. As a keen music student, the Music department pulled me in with the wide variety of different ensembles on offer. Although I was a big footballer, I didn’t miss it at Reed’s with the advanced levels of sport on offer and I soon found a love for hockey. Once you reach Year 10 (Fourth Form) you get a variety of different sports to choose from, meaning there’s a sport for every pupil.

How different has it been going into the Lower Sixth from the Fifth Form and have you enjoyed those changes?

There’s a large jump between the Middle School and the Sixth Form and at first that change might seem intimidating but with the addition of the Sixth Form Centre and all the extra opportunities and privileges you receive, it is an exciting change and one I have really enjoyed.

What advice would you give to a boy who is about to join Reed's? (an 11- or 13-year-old)

To enjoy every moment and opportunity that Reed’s has to offer you. I feel incredibly privileged to be a part of the Reed’s community and I would advise any boy joining Reed’s to get involved, be enthusiastic and make the most of being part of such a unique and exciting school.