On Wednesday 18th June, the King’s School Rochester community was treated to an unforgettable evening of wit, warmth and wisdom, as television presenter, broadcaster, comedian, singer and actor (so many hats!) Alexander Armstrong joined Lord Chadlington for an engaging ‘Pointless Evening’ of conversation.

In a ‘Parkinson-style’ interview, Lord Chadlington, long-standing friend and benefactor of the School, guided Armstrong through an inspiring and humorous reflection on his varied career, from Cambridge Footlights to Pointless, Classic FM, and even Hey Duggee.

Armstrong spoke candidly about the early moments that shaped his career—from discovering his love of performance at Cambridge to his journey into comedy and broadcasting. He reflected on the value of doing what you love: “I’ve never actually been to work,” he joked, “because I’ve loved everything I’ve done. That’s the real secret—find what you love and throw yourself into it.”

He also spoke movingly about the role music has played in his life, from childhood memories of exploring his parents’ gramophone records to his vision for a more accessible and joyful classical music culture. “Music has always been where I go for solace and joy,” he said. “It’s something I can lose myself in, and I want others—especially young people—to discover that too.”

The evening was made even more special by a surprise musical performance from Armstrong and the School’s Principal, Mr Ben Charles—his old school friend from Durham—who sang a spirited duet of The Gas Man Cometh, much to the audience’s delight.

Questions from the audience brought out further reflections on family life, creativity, and Armstrong’s thoughts on how to inspire young people to follow their passions. His warmth and humour made for an evening that was both entertaining and thought-provoking.

We are enormously grateful to both Lord Chadlington and Alexander Armstrong for their generosity, and for helping to create such a memorable evening for the King’s community.

Related Posts

  • Summer Ball

    The Paddock was transformed into a spectacular venue for this year’s Summer Ball, with the Cathedral and castle providing the perfect backdrop. Guests gathered in a beautifully decorated marquee to celebrate the end of the academic year, bringing together parents, staff and Upper Sixth leavers for an unforgettable night. The atmosphere was fantastic, with [...]

  • Speech Day and Prize-Giving July 2026

    The historic nave of Rochester Cathedral provided a magnificent backdrop for this year’s Speech Day and Prize Giving on Saturday, 4 July. The ceremony opened with the National Anthem, followed by an address from Mr John Maas, Chair of Governors, who reflected on the School’s continued growth and future strategic direction. Head of School [...]

  • Sowing the Seeds: Our £12,000 Maasai Donation

    This year, we have been raising money for the Maasai community in Northern Tanzania which we visited in 2017 and 2024. Sadly, our current trip had to be postponed a year, however we are ready to visit again in 2027. This year, we donated over £12,000 to the MAPED Masai cooperative, who have put [...]