Welcome from the new Chair of Governors – Mr Jeremy Nicholds

I am delighted to be joining Kent College, Pembury as Chair of Governors. This is a school with a rich heritage, a warm and inclusive community, and an inspiring commitment to enabling every pupil to flourish and unlock their full potential. As a former parent, I have seen first-hand the difference Kent College makes—my daughter enjoyed a very happy and fulfilling time here from 2007-2014, thriving both academically and personally. From my first conversations with staff, students, and parents, I have been struck by the school’s sense of purpose, its ambition, and the genuine care it shows for each individual. This is an especially exciting time for Kent College, as we move towards becoming fully co-educational and prepare to welcome boys into the senior school from September 2026. It is a significant and positive step that will broaden opportunities, enrich the school community, and help ensure that Kent College remains a place where every young person can thrive. As Chair of Governors, I look forward to supporting our Head and the Leadership Team in continuing to build on Kent College’s strengths, nurturing an environment where academic excellence, personal growth, and character development go hand in hand. I am excited to work alongside a dedicated governing body and passionate staff to help ensure that every student leaves Kent College with the confidence, curiosity, and resilience to succeed in the world beyond school. Over the past 30 or more years, I have served in a range of senior leadership, commercial management and governance roles with globally respected companies and brands. These experiences have equipped me with an understanding of what it takes to bring the best out of people, in strategic oversight, governance best practice, financial stewardship and the importance of collaborative leadership.  Whilst my career until now has been fully commercial, I have the experience of being Chair of Governors at another school some years back, and look forward to building on this at KC. It is a privilege to take on this role, and I am eager to contribute to the ongoing success and bright future of Kent College, Pembury. Jeremy Nicholds BA (Hons), Dip.(M)