News & Events

9th Degree Theatre Co (aka Year 13 Performing Arts) performed their final piece  ‘Blood will have Blood’ (a reinterpretation of Shakespeare’s Macbeth) last Friday.
As soon as we entered the performance space, the audience were immediately immersed into the production. Sat around round tables, with low light, drinks and nibbles on offer, it really was like being in a seedy, underground bar with an acoustic guitar piece supplying atmosphere and tone.
Music, throughout the performance was used effectively to reinforce metaphors used in reference to the original Macbeth story line with all group members participating including the use of ‘Gangstas Paradise’ to portray the context of the bar in relation to one of the main character’s portrayal – Malcolm (Son of Duncan). His craving for power through corruption ultimately led to his demise, in a twisted parallel to the previous bar owner, Macbeth .
The 3 dancers, were a clear reference to the 3 witches of the original Macbeth story line, alongside Jean’s crossover with Lady Macbeth. The loyalty & infatuation shown towards her man Flynn (Son of Banquo) was clear, alongside her willingness to do whatever she could for him through taking things into her own hands with the disposal of Malcolm.
Whilst absorbed through the convincing performances, the audience were also drawn to the use of the staging. To compliment the message that often the most dangerous of things are in plain sight, controversial and political references were made through the images displayed. This was a clever and subtle reference to the modern dangers that exist today but which reiterate the longevity of the original Macbeth story line. This was particularly thought provoking.
A clever and respectful homage to Shakespeare which left the audience reminded of the toxicity of power and the poison it creates when abused.

9th Degree were established in 2017.  ‘Blood Will Have Blood’ is their 3rd production.

Sam Brockington, ex Tavistock College student and now professional musician, returned to Tavistock to play at The Wharf as part of his European tour. Back from Paris and Copenhagen, amongst other places, and before his last show in London he played a one night gig alongside his band (also including ex College student Oli Larcombe-Moore) to a crowd connected to Tavistock, some who had travelled from as far as Bristol to see him. The gig was particularly special as the supporting acts also had connection with Tavistock College – Ronnie Cooke, guitarist and singer songwriter who now studies Music at Falmouth and Live Allen who is studying Music in Year 10 currently at College. Ronnie was keen to point out that he wouldn’t be doing what he now does and loves without the Music teaching he received at the college. Liv did a fantastic, lively set full of well known popular songs; she chatted to the audience and encouraged them to take to the floor. Her confident and relaxed approach alongside her strong vocal and guitar skills made for a great start to the evening and some very proud Performing Arts teachers!

Mount Kelly and Tavistock College are delighted to announce a partnership agreement outlining key areas in which the two schools will work together to enhance the education of all our young people.

The Department for Education and the Independent Schools Council launched the ‘Schools Together’ initiative in April 2016 and now has over 1,000 independent schools in partnerships with state schools. These partnerships take many different forms – from sharing subject expertise and supporting pupils with university applications, to sharing facilities and widening access to music, sport and drama.

The partnership between Mount Kelly and Tavistock College focuses on three key areas: academics, community, and sport and extra-curricular.

The two schools plan to set up termly ‘Tavistock Teachmeet’ meetings during which they will exchange and share best practice in teaching, academic clubs in Science, Languages, History, Politics and Global Affairs for pupils, and shared support for older pupils applying for university, including Oxbridge guidance and personal statement workshops.

A greater involvement in planning volunteering programmes, including a re-launch of Tavistock Interact, forms the community element of the partnership and competitive sport, shared coaching, showcases for Art, Photography and Product Design and an Annual Tavistock Community Concert are some of the plans for Sport and Extra-curricular activities.

Sarah Jones, Principal of Tavistock College commented: “This is an exciting initiative from which the pupils and academic staff at both our schools will benefit. It has been inspirational to see what other ‘Schools Together’ partnerships have achieved and I am confident that we can do great things for our pupils and teachers in Tavistock.”

Head Master of Mount Kelly, Mark Semmence, said: “It makes perfect sense for our two schools to share best practice and learn from each other. Not only will this partnership afford more opportunities for our young people, the results of their collaborations will be enjoyed by us all.”