It is with great sadness and sense of loss that we received the news that Mr Stephen Fell passed away on Saturday 16 January 2021, having contracted Covid-19.

Mr Fell came late to teaching after a successful career in the chemical industry and joined Kent College in 1996. Stephen was an inspirational teacher applying his experienced elemental expertise as Head of Chemistry to popular pyrotechnic performances and sugar coated covalent bonding (demonstrated with Smarties). He was passionate about the progress of his pupils, many of whom went on to continue their studies of Chemistry at University.

Known as “Felly“ by many colleagues and students, he ran the Kent College Duke of Edinburgh Award programme. He encouraged students to step out of their comfort zone and take on the challenges of Lake District weather; the heights of Snowdonia; as well as life affirming expeditions further afield in South Africa, Italy and Crete. Many completed the Gold Award and received their medals at Buckingham Palace.

Mr Fell was also a key member of the boarding community at Kent College. For the last 13 years he ran the boarders’ activity programme: organising five aside football, basketball, gym access, as well as lots of individual sports club opportunities during the week. The highlight for many were the Sunday trips which included art exhibitions, London concerts, football matches, go-kart racing, paintballing, and visits to theme parks. These trips have been highly valued by boarders giving many a taste of British culture.

So many young lives have been touched by Stephen, and enhanced by his enthusiasm, optimism and passion. We are grateful for his dedicated service and that we had him for so long as part of the Kent College Community. He will be greatly missed.