Dr David Cave (Sc 42-47) tells us what a Tonbridge education meant to him and why he has chosen to become a member of the Judde Society

I came to Tonbridge in September 1942. With my mother driving an ambulance and father on duty with the Royal Observer Corps, I was put on a train and told to get off at Tonbridge and make my way to the school. Coming from a country school of 14 pupils, it was formidable. 

On the first Saturday of the term, The Arch (Headmaster Whitworth) borrowed bicycles and took all the School House Novi to Underriver. Here, in the sun on the North Downs, we picked blackberries and as we picked and ate, he came to each boy encouraging us and helping with high fruit. A few days later Mrs Whitworth cooked blackberry and apple pie for the House. I felt pleased for my part in the achievement; I had made a mark. At the time I did not appreciate that The Arch had come to know the pickers better than a Common Entrance paper and a previous headmaster’s report.

I had learnt that at this school the interest of the highest stretches to the lowest.

My legacy pledge to Tonbridge is the result of my gratitude not just for myself but also for my son, James, who far better than I has shown the benefit of a Tonbridge education.

David has generously chosen to support Tonbridge with a gift in his Will.

Read our Judde Society brochure here. Contact our Judde Society manager, Tara Biddle, at tara.biddle@tonbridge-school.org

Guidance on leaving a legacy gift to the Tonbridge School Foundation (Registered Charity 1099162) can be found here.