Welcome to LWC News
Dear Parents and Guardians,
This week’s LWC News is living proof that so much of what we do is led by our students.
Below, you can read about pupil plans to mark Children’s Mental Health week, see what happened when they found the perfect spot for a wildlife camera and discover the ‘hidden talents’ they learned about when they threw a celebratory breakfast for their peers.
As always, your comments and contributions are most welcome via stories@lordwandsworth.org
Have a wonderful weekend.
Calendar & Sports Schedule
The school calendar can be viewed using the link below:
LWC CalendarThe school sports calendar can be viewed using the link below:
LWC Sports CalendarPlease view the Sports Weekly Schedule here:
Sports Weekly ScheduleHere’s a guide to required kit per sport:
LWC SPORTS KIT LIST
News
Growing Together
Next week, we’re shining the light on children’s mental health; an initiative led by the LWC Mental Health Committee.
To mark Children’s Mental Health Week, a number of lunchtime activities will be running under the supervision of our peer mentors.
“The theme is ‘know yourself, grow yourself,’ explains Lower Sixth Form committee member, Charles. “There will be many different activities to get involved in, ranging from rock climbing, to painting and even golf.”
Bella, who is also on the committee, added, “We will have positive affirmation painting on rocks and self-portraits of our future-selves. We really want to encourage students to join in and celebrate who we are now and in the future. We want to embrace personal growth.”
“Being unique is about being authentically you,” continued Charles. “It’s your quirks, your strengths, your flaws and your dreams that set you apart. In a world that often pressures us to conform, standing out can definitely feel scary. But here’s the truth; it’s your uniqueness that brings colour and variety to life. In other words, try to be yourself in a world full of crowds.”
Students have been sent a sign-up form to take part in the themed activities, which are running from Monday 10th-Friday 14th February.
Caught on Camera
The 1200 is a diverse patch of Hampshire….in many ways.
Our wildlife camera has recently captured just a few of the resident creatures at LWC.
Muntjac and roe deer, foxes, hares, squirrels, mice, pheasants and buzzards have been caught on film.
Dr Esther Haydock, teacher of Physics, Astronomy and Environmental Science explained, “The camera was placed in the wooded area behind the Flowers Science Centre. The students picked the location by looking for evidence of an animal path. The camera has recorded a really good mix of animals, which shows the health of the ecosystem that we have in the 1200.”
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Let’s Dance
It’s probably the biggest and liveliest of all LWC interhouse competitions…
Tonight, Interhouse Dance gets underway at Sutton Hall, with all senior Houses performing a self-choreographed routine, led by the Sixth Form. Junior House will also compete with a mixed group led by Miss Bastiman.
LWC Head of Dance, Molly Moffitt-McGrath has revealed that the Junior and Senior Street Dance Group will open the evening with a performance of ‘Boss Ladies’.
She added, “This is one of the most difficult interhouse events to orchestrate, as it takes so much rehearsal time to choreograph, teach and perfect the routines. For the leaders, it’s a lesson in organisation, following a brief and most of all, leadership. For those participating, it’s about inclusion and the comradery with their House. Dance is a brilliant form of fitness, as well as an entertaining art form, so it’s fantastic to get so many involved.”
The competition will be judged by Headmaster, Adam Williams and Paige Elson, Co-ordinator of Dance at Churcher’s College.
Quarter-Final Courage
Our Under 15A netballers put in a remarkable display in the quarter-finals of the SnS Bowl South this week.
In a close-run game against Canford, the girls displayed skill, courage, determination and were unlucky to miss out on a place in the semi-finals.
Speaking to the players after the game, LWC’s Head of Girls’ Sport and Netball, Poppy Lake said, “Keep working hard, keep pushing and know that we are all with you every step of the way. You’re building something special and the team spirit and cohesion we’re seeing is something to be proud of.”
Well done girls.
Another Quarter-Final for the Calendar
From U15A netball to U15A rugby…
This Wednesday (12th February) LWC hosts Collegiate in the quarter-finals of the Continental Tyres U15 Schools Cup.
The game kicks off at 2pm and all are welcome to watch.
For those unable to make it, the game will also be streamed live here.
LWC Head of Rugby, Lewis Starbuck said, “We’re extremely proud of this group of boys. Their dedication to the game and their passion to get better each day has led them here. This is the furthest stage of the National Cup that we have reached as a school and the game against Collegiate is set to be an exciting game of rugby. Please come down and support the boys, as I’m sure they’ll put on a great show for us all.”
“I Feel Much More Confident”
122 5th Formers were put through their paces last week in LWC’s Mock Interview Morning.
The aim of the event was to provide students with some experience of putting together their first CV and going through an interview.
LWC’s Head of Futures, Nicola Hirst said, “It helps to refine their interview skills, boost their confidence and prepare them for real-life applications or interviews.”
Our thanks go to the 43 parent and Sternian volunteers who assisted with the interviews.
Feedback from those interviewing included, ‘Pupils were engaged and enthusiastic’ and ‘An excellent exercise for them in understanding how to promote their best skills and attributes.’
Many of the students remarked that the event had boosted their confidence and improved their communication skills.
Taking on the Tycoons
Two teams of LWC students are hoping to have made it through to the final stages of a national enterprise competition.
Tycoon, from the Peter Jones Foundation, encourages youngsters to write a business plan and create a start-up using a free, goodwill loan.
3rd Former, Tom leads his group, Nitro Energy and explained, “We sell pre-game packs containing gummies injected with electrolytes and electrolyte powder in a pack.”
2nd Former, Monty heads up Home Décor, who create 3-D printed plant pots. Both teams had stalls at LWC’s Carols and Christmas Market in December and Monty admits, “The best bit about the competition so far was the Christmas event, because we sold most of our stock and made over £200!”
Tom added, “At the end of the sales window, Nitro Energy were ranked eighth highest in the country for the profit we had made. The highlight for me has been coming up with the idea and then making it a reality.”
Nitro Energy and Home Décor hope to discover their fate in the next few weeks, with the possibility of a trip to Buckingham Palace and a share of a cash prize for the winners.
Leading the Way
LWC’s RAF cadets pitted their skills against 12 other schools last weekend.
The team, made up of LWC and Costello cadets, travelled to Blandford Camp in Dorset for the Regional Air Squadron Trophy Competition on Sunday.
LWC’s CCF Contingent Commander, Alex Hamilton said, “The cadets performed admirably well, particularly in the drill and leadership elements of the competition. Cadet Warrant Officer Daniel Corfield led the team superbly.”
Learning From a Master
LWC musicians have been benefitting from the advice of a celebrated concert pianist.
In a Piano Masterclass with James Lisney last week, they were given tips from his decades of experience.
“It was a real highlight to watch the students play and so gracefully take on board the pointers that James was giving to them,” explained LWC Musician-in-Residence, Max Rhodes. “Also, to subsequently watch them successfully implement these techniques into their playing. James suggested that practice should never sound like the finished piece, as the boundaries of play should be pushed whilst practicing.”
James Lisney’s Masterclass was followed by an evening recital in the Nadine Uppal Theatre. “The audience present for the recital in the evening was in awe of James’ amazing playing and his incredible storytelling around the context, inspiration and meaning of all of the pieces he played,” Mr Rhodes added.
Up For Debate
Was Julius Caesar or Napolean the greatest military leader? And what is the greatest speech of all time?
Just a few of the questions posed this week at the Sixth Form Inter-School Debating Competition, hosted in Gavin Hall.
A team of seven from LWC battled against Frensham Heights and Reeds in the (traditionally) annual competition, which has been resurrected for the first time since the pandemic.
Frensham Heights won, with LWC taking a very respectable second place.
LWC’s Head of History, Jonathan Lilley explained, “Students were required to think on their feet, responding to the ebb and flow of the debates. It’s superb practice in the formulation of historical argument. It also offers wonderful preparation for university or the world of work and develops the skills of logical thinking, clear communication and teamwork.”
Showcasing Skills
The interests of LWC students are beautifully eclectic.
From research into how AI will impact the labour market, to analysing the work of Sylvia Plath.
These were a couple of the projects showcased at last week’s inaugural EPQ Marketplace Event; demonstrating what can be achieved when you follow your passions.
The event allowed Sixth Formers who have just completed their EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) to share their work and answer questions about it.
LWC’s Head of EPQ, Helen Shedden added, “It was a wonderful opportunity for pupils to see what others have achieved. The Marketplace also provided parents, guardians and other pupils with a chance to ask questions of those who have gone through the process, finding out how they have benefitted from the programme.”
Time Travelling 2nd Form
2nd Form were immersed in Roman life this week as they visited Bath’s Roman Baths.
The baths provide one of the best-preserved examples of Roman remains in the world, with steaming spring water continuing to fill the pools to the present day.
LWC’s Teacher of Latin and Classics, Chloe Wilson explained, “Pupils were able to see real Latin in the same context that the Romans would have. They were able to marvel at what the Romans built and achieved so long ago. This helps to inspire students and creates an interactive learning experience that is so different to what they do in school. It’s the closest to time travel that we’ll probably ever get!”
Hidden Talents
A prefect-planned breakfast with a difference was laid on for 4th Form last week.
Head of year, Mark Smith explained, “The prefects conducted an anonymous survey for the year group, to identify ‘hidden’ achievements. These included a student who had cycled part of the Tour de France route, those who have received consistently high AtoLs, high levels of merits and those who are generally thriving.”
Mr Smith continued, “The prefects gave a short speech to recognise their admiration for the students and the achievements they were showcasing. There was a really lovely atmosphere and the Catering Team had outdone themselves with an incredible spread of food, including pancakes, pastries, fruit, granola, yoghurt, fruit juice and hot chocolate.”
Great job all round, 4th Form.
“Your Pupils are a Real Credit to You”
Questions around healthy eating came in thick and fast for nutritional therapist, Polly Webb this week.
Polly led sessions for 1st Form through to Lower Sixth on healthy eating, as part of PSHEE Focus Day.
She added, “Your pupils are a real credit to you. Each year group contributed and engaged effectively, asking intelligent and inquisitive questions. They were keen to hear about good sports snacks for endurance training and also asked questions about protein, blood sugar levels and the best late night snacks.”
Drama Scholars Evening
LWC Drama Scholars from 1st to Sixth Form will be taking to the stage next Thursday (13th February).
Drama Scholars Evening provides an opportunity for all students to showcase their skills by performing a solo or duo piece.
LWC’s Head of Performing Arts, Gemma Reeks explained, “The aim of the event is to capture a performance which reflects our talented scholars, giving them a chance to shine. Parents coming along to watch can expect to see a polished performance, which they can be proud of. This may be in the form of a successful current LAMDA piece or a past exam success.”
The performance begins at 7pm in the Nadine Uppal Theatre and you can book here.
Surplus Uniform?
We’re keen to do our bit for sustainability at LWC and to cut down on costs.
The LWC Uniform Shop offers preloved school clothing at cut-down prices, but we’re running low on stock!
If you have any used, new-style uniform or PE kit in good, clean condition, we would love to take it off your hands.
Please drop it off at Main Reception. All funds raised from the sale of it will go directly to the LWC Foundation.
Quiz & Curry Night
Are you a whizz when it comes to a quiz?
FLWC’s ever-popular Curry and Quiz Night is back on Friday, 28th February between 7 and 10pm in Gavin Hall.
Tickets are £20 and include a delicious curry, arrival drink and entry into the quiz itself.
There’s also an opportunity to win a bottle of sparkling wine and hamper donated by Penn Croft Wines.
A percentage of the money raised will go to the LWC Foundation.
Tickets are available here and are on sale until Friday, 21st February.
Super Sunrise
From frosty mornings to fiery sunsets, this week’s weather has produced some beautiful scenes.
This glorious shot of sunrise across the Headmaster’s Lawn comes courtesy of Mr Williams himself.
If you have a great picture of the 1200, please send it to stories@lordwandsworth.org
From Spain to Long Sutton
When Vicent Fabrá-Pastor arrived on a placement as a Language Assistant at LWC two months ago, he gave little away of what he had witnessed a month earlier.
In October 2024, having seen the devastating pictures of the flooding in Valencia, just a 50-minute drive from his home in the Spanish city of Gandia, he decided he wanted to help.
A year’s worth of rain had fallen on Valencia in the space of just eight hours. Homes and livelihoods were destroyed, cars sailed at speed down flooded streets and more than 220 lives were lost.
“The floods started on the Tuesday evening and I went to Valencia the following Monday,” Mr Fabrá-Pastor explains. “I went with my friends and girlfriend for two or three days to help with the clean-up. We helped to give out food and to clean the streets. It was terrible there. There were broken cars, people crying. A lot of people from across Spain came to help; from Seville and Bilbao. A lot of people wanted to help.”
Four weeks later and Vicent was in Long Sutton. A complete contrast to his homeland.
“I wanted to experience leaving Spain and living in another country,” he reveals. “I think England is so different; the culture, the weather! Today in my town in Spain, it’s 15 degrees. Here it’s about two or three! I think this is the perfect moment in my life to travel. I can also improve my English because I think it’s the most important language in the world.”
Since November, Vicent has been assisting in Spanish classes at LWC and living at Junior House. When he reaches the end of his placement in March, he intends to return to Spain to finish his master’s degree and to find work as a primary school tutor.
He admits to finding his work alongside students in the classroom rewarding and also has a few observations about how life in our little corner of rural Hampshire, differs from that on Spain’s southern coast.
“I think that the strangest thing for me is that people have dinner so early!!!” he laughs. “At five o’clock!! In Spain, we usually eat at 9 o’clock, maybe 10.”
That isn’t to say that he disapproves of the food that he’s eaten since he’s been here though. “Julyans is incredible,” he reveals. “It has a lot of healthy food. The banoffee sponge with custard is the best…and the beef goulash.”
Before he leaves in March, Vicent plans to travel more widely alongside his day-job at LWC and make as much use of his surroundings as he can. “The facilities here are amazing; the sports hall, the astros. I think sport is very important for young people. It’s important to learn to have a healthy life.”
And aside from his time here providing banoffee sponge in abundance, he has also experienced something else, rarely seen at home.
“In my local area it’s very, very strange to see snow,”he admits. “When it snowed here a few weeks ago, it was great! But I’m not used to the cold. I prefer the Spanish weather!”
You can read more about Vicent and his work with the LWC MFL Department here.
LWC X Oddballs
Bespoke LWC hats, made by Oddballs are still available to buy.
The woollen headgear can be purchased for £10, with proceeds going to Oddballs and the LWC Foundation.
You can order here and the cost will be added to your school bill.
Half-Term Camp
Budding pentathlete in the family?
A Half-Term Pentathlon Camp is running at LWC on Monday 17th and Tuesday 18th February between 9am and 3.30pm.
Swimming, running, fencing and laser shooting will be available for 8 to 16 year olds, at a cost of £110 for both days or £60 for one.
You can book your place here.
Key Dates
LWC Connect Networking Breakfast in Zanetas (Engineering)
7.30-9am, Thursday 13th February
Drama Scholars’ Evening, Nadine Uppal Theatre
7pm, Thursday 13th February
End of Half-Term
4pm, Friday 14th February
Spring Term Resumes
Monday 24th February
Iceland Trek in aid of the LWC Foundation
Wednesday 26th February – Sunday 2nd March
Cotterill Cup Music Festival Prize Winners Concert, Nadine Uppal Theatre
7pm, Monday 10th March
Whole School Futures Fair
8.30am-3.30pm, Friday 14th March
Cotterill Cup Open Section Recitals, Nadine Uppal Theatre
7pm, Friday 14th March
Dance Show, Nadine Uppal Theatre
7pm, Monday 17th & Tuesday 18th March