Welcome to LWC News
Just as winter coats have arrived in abundance across the 1200, so too have student achievements.
From the remarkable efforts of our 1st Form in the Mendips, to our musicians learning the art of drumming from the sunnier climes of West Africa – you’ll get the lowdown here.
Happy Exeat Weekend!
As always, your contributions to LWC News are very welcome via stories@lordwandsworth.org
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
1st Form Shine in the Mendips
LWC’s phenomenal 1st Form have been taking a step outside their comfort zones…
They spent three days climbing, abseiling, caving and camping under the stars in Somerset’s Mendip Hills last week.
This annual trip is designed to bring the new cohort together, whilst encouraging them to see what can be achieved when they try something new… even if it initially scares them.
“My favourite part of the trip was seeing bats asleep in the cave,” revealed Noah. “When we were in the caves, we turned off our head torches and our eyes couldn’t adjust to the darkness because it’s one of the few places where light can’t reach.”
Extraordinary Orla
2nd Former, Orla needs your support!
The 12-year-old has been shortlisted in the Young Achiever of the Year category in the Petersfield Awards.
“I found out I’d been nominated when I was on holiday in Weymouth,” she explains. “I couldn’t think what I’d been nominated for, but it was a really nice surprise.”
As it happens, Orla has been put forward for her work as a Youth Councillor for Hampshire in the United Kingdom Youth Parliament, co-founding a school newsletter, having her creative writing published and all of this, despite spending prolonged periods of time in and out of hospital.
Orla hopes to go into the medical profession in the future. “I’ve had so many hospital trips, it would be nice to help others in the same way that I’ve been helped,” she reasons.
The winner is chosen by public vote and you can pledge your support for Orla up until Sunday, 12th October here.
Listen, Wonder and Create
LWC’s inaugural Listen, Wonder and Create series got underway on Tuesday night with an inspiring talk by Dr Juliette Kemp.
The programme, created for LWC’s Academic and All-Round Scholars, features a number of guest speakers, all offering a unique perspective.
Dr Kemp shared insights from her career in medicine and experience of working across the globe. From celebrities to crocodile bites, she also crucially explored how to become one of the world’s change-makers.
The second talk in the series will explore neuroscience in November.
Out of Africa
Abass Dodoo brings an energy to LWC like no other every year.
Last week saw him return to the 1200 to showcase his infectious musical style.
He began by working with our 4th and 5th Form Music Scholars and GCSE musicians as part of his Highlife workshop, aiming to explore the vibrant rhythms and melodies of West Africa.
This was followed by a lively performance for all in the evening, featuring students and Abass’ band Okailey.
2nd Form were then able to take part in Djembe drumming workshops the following day.
“I love seeing students come alive through music,” explained Abass.
“There’s something powerful about watching them connect, express themselves and discover new ways of learning. The energy, curiosity, and openness they bring make every workshop a joyful and transformative experience.”
Summercombe Opening
“I want parents to feel that this is their space, as much as it is their children’s.”
LWC’s Senior Head of Special Educational Needs (SEN) and Inclusion, Brigitte Wood has been reflecting on the official opening of the Summercombe Centre last weekend.
“We’re keen to support the needs of our parents alongside our SEN pupils,” she continued.
Last weekend’s event was designed to give parents the opportunity to explore our new, calm and welcoming learning support space, which is home to our much-expanded SEN and Inclusion Team.
There were introductions from Headmaster, Adam Williams, Dr Wood and Deputy Head (Academic), Angela Watson alongside tours of the centre, The Barn, our new-look Library and our bespoke sensory garden located near to Summercombe. All of these spaces have been created to help support those with SEN.
LWC Rides Out at Blenheim
Three LWC riders took part in the Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials Arena Eventing Competition last weekend.
Alice, Immy and Erin were representing the Hampshire Hunt Pony Club at the historic Oxfordshire venue.
LWC Head of Riding, Camilla Reed added, “They all had great rounds and a wonderful experience.”
New CCF Recruits Shape Up in the Copse
LWC’s new CCF recruits were put into action at the weekend.
They were given a taste of life in the field as part of a Recruit Camp in Sheephouse Copse.
The basic training exercise for (mostly) 3rd Formers involved practising camouflage and concealment, tactical movement, shelter-building and outdoor cooking, amongst other skills.
They also managed to grab a few hours sleep under canvas, expertly led by our student non-commissioned officers.
CCF Back on the Range
Meanwhile, a team of four CCF cadets spent the weekend on the rifle ranges at the Army Training Centre, Pirbright as part of CADSAM.
The Cadet Skill at Arms Meeting is an annual shooting competition featuring teams from across the South East of England.
Most of the cadets were experiencing competitive shooting for the first time and saw success in the intense Falling Plate Challenge, where they were required to hit targets with accuracy, against the clock.
The Language of LWC
Today is European Day of Languages: an initiative to promote Europe’s linguistic diversity and to encourage a lifelong love of language learning.
But how did LWC’s Head of Modern Foreign Languages, Zoe Wheddon begin her linguistic journey? You may be surprised.
“I love the Eurovision Song Contest,” she admits. “Most countries sang in their mother tongue when I was younger and I used to mimic the sound. When I was ten, my group got lost on a school trip to France. I went into a shop, was able to get directions, buy a map and get us back safely. When I started secondary school, I couldn’t wait to learn languages.”
Mrs Wheddon can speak both Spanish and French. “It feels like being part of a special club when you can speak several different languages,” she continues.
“It’s about learning another way of looking at the world and enjoying it through different eyes.”
Food From Around Europe
The LWC Catering Department has also pulled out all the stops to celebrate European Day of Languages this week.
Dishes originating from Turkey, Spain, France, Poland, Romania and Ukraine have formed part of a themed week of food in Julyans Dining Hall.
“We love introducing our students to different flavours from around the world and this seemed like an excellent opportunity,” revealed LWC’s Deputy Catering Manager, Agnieszka Prokopczuk, who herself comes from Poland.
“We were able to draw on the skills of our much-loved Catering Team, some of whom also originate from some of the countries we’ve been celebrating.”
Festival of Sport
It’s a firm favourite in the LWC sporting calendar.
Next Saturday (4th October) sees the return of the LWC U13 Sports Festival.
“Around 600 children from 20 different schools will be taking part in seven-a-side girls’ hockey and boys’ rugby,” explained LWC’s Director of Sport, Soma Singh.
“It’s an opportunity to showcase talent, sport and the spirit of the games, whilst offering the opportunity for players, parents and coaches to come together,” he continued.
The festival gets underway at 9am.
Rhyme and Reason
Hip hop artist, poet and author, Karl Nova joins us in the 1200 next week to mark National Poetry Day.
The award-winning poet will work with 3rd Form in a series of workshops, before signing copies of his books in the afternoon.
Karl has previously received the Ruth Rendell Award for his outstanding contribution to raising literary levels in the UK.
We can’t wait to see what he brings to LWC on Tuesday (30th September).
National Poetry Day on Thursday, 2nd October encourages all to discover, enjoy and share this form of literary work.
LWC Life
From discounts at Barnsgrove and Newlyns, to deals on your next break and half-term experience days…
LWC Life is our benefits scheme for parents, staff and Sternians, offering a curated collection of rewards and experiences.
If you haven’t yet signed up, you can do so here and add your membership card to your phone’s wallet to redeem on the go.
Among our current offers is 15% off a general health check at Randox Health. If an indulgent summer has left you seeking a healthier lifestyle, you can kick-start your plans now!
Head for Heights
LWC Catering Manager, Iain Hedley is a man used to the pressure of a busy kitchen…
But how will he fare when suspended 100 metres from the ground this weekend?
Iain is abseiling down Portsmouth’s Spinnaker Tower on Sunday (28th September) to help raise funds for Bagshot Cricket Club.
Iain admits, “Although I have done this once before (some eight years ago for a paediatric first aid charity), I reckon stepping out onto a platform no bigger than a chopping board, at 100 metres up will still set the pulse racing. At least the weather looks to be fine so I should be able to capture the 23-mile panoramic view!”
You can sponsor Iain here and we’ll update you on his progress in next week’s LWC News.
The DofE Journey Begins for 4th Form
In seven months, they’ll be taking part in their final expedition on the Isle of Wight.
But last weekend, a group of those who have signed up to earn their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award were given their first taste of what’s involved.
The overnight training event in Sheephouse Copse allowed students to practice the skills required to complete one of four sections of the award.
The Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is part of the renowned youth development programme which aims to boost skills, confidence and enable personal growth in those aged 14 and over.
A training exercise for our second group of entrants will take place on Saturday, 11th October.
Thank You to LWC
LWC hosts many sports teams and community groups.
Odiham Crocs FC play their home matches in the 1200 and have recently raised £600 for Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice Care: the only adult hospice care provider for terminally ill patients in West Surrey and North East Hampshire.
The cash was raised from their annual charity match.
“For many years we have played the match before the start of the season, either at Lord Wandsworth College or Robert May’s School,” explained Neil Armstrong, Odiham Crocs committee member. “Both schools very generously give us the pitch free of charge for this event, which helps us achieve the money we make.”
The football club has raised over £8,600 from charity matches over the years.
Neil continued,“We chose Phyllis Tuckwell, as two of our players were cared for at the hospice.”
LWC Community Comes Together
We know this time of year starts to get busy…
Which is why it’s worth adding our next LWC Connect Networking Drinks to the calendar now.
Join us at The Lost Boy in Farnham from 7pm on Thursday, 13th November for drinks and nibbles.
It’s a chance to meet current and former LWC parents, together with Sternians and Headmaster, Adam Williams in a relaxed setting.
You can reserve your free place here and if you’re still not a member of LWC Connect, then sign up!
Meanwhile, a few places remain for the LWC Golf Society Day at Farnham Sands Golf Club on Wednesday, 15th October.
Giving New Life to Preloved
We’re in the final throes of Second Hand September (a month-long campaign by Oxfam encouraging us all to embrace preloved clothing).
But regardless of the month, the LWC Second Hand Uniform Shop is always at your disposal.
It offers quality, preloved uniform at discount prices, available to view by appointment. Just contact our Admissions Team to organise.
Alternatively, if you have current uniform in good, clean condition to donate, please drop it into Main Reception. All proceeds from our sales go to the Lord Wandsworth Foundation.
Staff Spotlight
Each week we’re shining the spotlight on one of our new members of academic staff at LWC.
This week it’s the turn of Sophie Cooper, Teacher of Design and Technology.
Having studied fashion design at university, Sophie went on to complete apprenticeships, working on Vera Wang wedding dresses and high street styles for FatFace and Quba.
Once she completed her teacher training, Sophie worked at schools both in the UK and New Zealand.
“Since coming in for my interview and tour of LWC, I’ve felt at home,” she reveals. “I can’t wait to push the Textiles Department to new heights and to help the students find their potential and inner designer!”
Outside of school, Sophie is a mum of two and is busy restoring an old, thatched cottage in her (almost certainly limited) spare time.
Oddballs Hats
The temperature has certainly dropped this week.
Which is why now is a good time to order your Oddballs hat if you haven’t already.
Skilfully modelled by Mr Ruffell, this collaborative design between LWC and Oddballs is available to purchase here for £10.
All proceeds go to the Lord Wandsworth Foundation and Oddballs’ chosen charities.
Mists of Mellow Fruitfulness
The drop in temperature has coincided with the autumn equinox this week.
The equinox is the astronomical start of autumn in the Northern Hemisphere, when day and night are roughly equal in length.
This occurs when the Earth’s axis is tilted perpendicular to the sun’s rays.
The 1200 is gradually looking a little more autumnal and we love these abundant apple trees alongside Summerfield House.
If you have a great photo taken at LWC, we’d love to see it via stories@lordwandsworth.org.
Don’t Forget!
In order to take advantage of their discounted rates, the School Photography Company asks that they receive any orders for last week’s House, Upper Sixth Leavers and Prefects photos by this Thursday, 2nd October.
House and Leavers photos can be ordered here, with Prefects available here.
Rooting for the Red Roses
Tomorrow sees England’s Red Roses take on Canada in the final of the Women’s Rugby World Cup.
LWC’s Head of 3rd Form and Teacher of PE, Eloise Shrimpton has trodden the turf at Twickenham herself, as part of a victorious Hampshire side in 2024.
“We (Hampshire) won the Gill Burns Women’s County Championship (Division 2),” she smiles. “I must have been in that stadium nine months earlier as a spectator. I got to meet Marlie Packer (Saracens and England) and told her that she was a trailblazer. Because she was there, it meant I could be here and I cried my eyes out! We went into the changing rooms and I felt small, but in the best way. I was honoured to be there. It was a once-in-a-lifetime achievement.”
Miss Shrimpton fell in love with rugby at secondary school, having been deemed “too aggressive” for netball and encouraged towards the oval ball by a motivational teacher who inspired her to take up the profession. She went on to play for her university team and was chosen to represent her county before completing her first year.
“I was called up to the first team after about two or three weeks,” she explains. “It was unheard of. I was a fresher, brand new and had never really done anything.”
But a devastating knee injury whilst playing for Havant in 2018 curtailed her playing career. Or so it seemed.
A chance encounter with former England coach, Eddie Jones at a spa would lead to her lacing her boots once again. Now she is a regular feature in the Havant side once again and has just completed her third season playing for Hampshire.
But Eloise is keen to capitalise on the success of the Red Roses and wants more girls at LWC to give rugby a go.
“I really want to grow the sport here,” Eloise reveals. “It’s a real passion of mine. We currently have a Saturday morning programme, but the plan is to be part of a Barbarians team, where we play alongside players from other schools and really start driving girls’ rugby. I’d also love to help facilitate touch rugby sessions at prep and primary schools and run tournaments for them here at LWC.”
The appeal of the sport for Eloise is two-fold. She describes playing as “freeing” and a pursuit in which “all of my feelings can be directed in a perfect way.” But the contact nature of the game is clearly also a draw.
“The contact really bonds you as a team. I know and trust the people around me and that they’ll have my back,” she explains. I also know that if I tackle them correctly, I’m not going to injure them. As much as it looks brutal and difficult, I trust that my body can do a thing that other people don’t think it can do and that’s huge. I think one of the reasons that the Red Roses are such a tight-knit group is that they all trust each other. I think it’s evident that in the women’s game, the trust and bond of friendship is bigger.”
You can read more about Eloise’s love of rugby and her passion for growing the game within the 1200 on our website.
Key Dates
Class of 2025 Art Exhibition, The Prideaux Gallery
Ongoing until Thursday, 23rd October
Yorkshire Three Peaks Fundraising Challenge Online Information Evening
6.45pm, Thursday, 2nd October
Creative Arts Dinner for Arts Scholars, A-level Artists, Parents & Sternians, Julyans
7.30pm, Friday, 3rd October
LWC U13 Sports Festival
9am, Saturday, 4th October
Interhouse Music, Sutton Hall
7pm, Friday, 10th October
Sixth Form Open Morning & Options Fair, Gavin Hall
9am, Saturday, 11th October
LWC Golf Society Golf Day, Farnham Sands Golf Club
Wednesday, 15th October
Half-Term Begins
4pm, Friday, 17th October
Autumn Term Resumes
Monday, 3rd November
Student-Led Cabaret Evening, Gavin Hall
7pm, Friday, 7th November
LWC Remembrance Service, War Memorial
10.45am, Tuesday, 11th November
LWC Connect Networking Drinks, The Lost Boy, Farnham
7pm, Thursday, 13th November
LWC Music Department in Concert, Nadine Uppal Theatre
7pm, Friday, 14th November
Exeat Weekend
4pm, Friday 21st November