Welcome to LWC News
After the Exeat exodus, the 1200 has sprung back into life with force this week.
We’ve welcomed special guests and continued to lay exciting plans for the weeks, months and even years ahead.
You can discover more, below.
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
Seeing Double!
There can’t be many rugby teams who can boast that 40 per cent of their side comes from just two families….
But then, LWC teams are like no other.
This year’s 1st XV boasts THREE sets of twins, two of whom hail from the same family.
Step forward William (who captains the side), Jack, Eddie, Reuben, Charlie and Harry.
If you think this must be confusing at times, it turns out the brothers feel the same.
“The positives are that I know how the three of my brothers play inside and out,” explains Upper Sixth Former, William. “Communication is never a problem, apart from sometimes between Eddie and Reu, who I struggle to tell apart all the time!
“This has been the very first time we’ve all played in the same team together. Mum and dad always talked about the possibility when we first joined. It’s strange to see it happening now, as it seems like yesterday that we first came to LWC!”
2025: A Mast Year at LWC
Every few years, some species of trees and shrubs produce bumper crops, thought to be nature’s way of ensuring the survival of certain types of trees and mammals. This phenomenon is called a mast year.
2025 being a mast year has meant a bumper contribution to LWC’s Fruit Appeal: an attempt to harvest and use as much of the ‘mast’ from the 1200 as possible.
Collected during Saturday morning activities, the crops are then handed over to the LWC Catering Team.
“So far we’ve used our apples for crumbles, apple sauce, cakes, desserts and spiced apple chutney,” explained Deputy Catering Manager, Agnieszka Prokopczuk. “Pears and crab apples are also being preserved and quinces are being used as garnish. Apple and pear peel is being dehydrated to use as a crisp, sweet treat and garnish to make sure that we’re using every part of the ingredient.”
Over the summer, the Catering Team also created more than 50 jars of pickles, known to boost gut health.
Poetry in Motion
To mark National Poetry Day this week, poet, hip-hop artist and author, Karl Nova was our guest in the 1200.
He led a series of poetry workshops with 3rd Form, having told his own story, which led him from London to Nigeria and back, through abandonment and forgiveness to positivity and poetry.
Students were encouraged to perform their own poetry, written during the sessions and even queued to take part!
LWC Library Assistant, Helen Komrower explained, “Poetry isn’t just something found in dusty old books. It’s relevant and relatable. I hope pupils continue to feel empowered to put pen to paper and to grow in confidence. Karl showed them that there’s no right or wrong when they’re finding their voice; the world wants to hear what they have to say!”
After the workshops, Karl signed books and chatted to students in our new Library.
Science Spectacular!
Gavin Hall was the setting for a series of explosive experiments this week!
As part of their learning around the various changes of state (melting, boiling, condensing and freezing), 1st and 2nd Form were invited to observe a ‘Dry Ice Spectacular’ courtesy of Teacher of Chemistry, Emily Seeber and Head of 1st and 2nd Form Science, Susan Penny.
“We put on a range of demonstrations, from blowing up and popping balloons, to making our own fire extinguisher,” explained Mrs Penny. “We even had a cauldron to show the dry ice trailing to the floor – perfect for Halloween!
“Dry ice allows us to show another change of state: sublimation. Carbon dioxide changes from a solid, straight to a gas. The students seemed to really enjoy the performance – especially the big bang at the end!”
Year 5 and 6 pupils from Long Sutton Primary School were also invited to watch, as part of LWC’s outreach programme.
A Presidential Perspective
There aren’t many of us who can say we’ve been in the company of a former President of the United States.
But Lower Sixth Former, Devan was given the opportunity to attend a talk by Barack Obama at the O2 last week.
“It was more than just a chance to say that I watched Obama talk once,” Devan admitted. “I was able to listen, learn and reflect on leadership at the highest level. It was inspiring to hear someone else’s perspective on the world from arguably one of the most powerful and experienced people.
“He spoke candidly about some of the more pressing issues society is facing and allowed the audience to think about them from a whole different angle. What struck me most was his perspective on leadership and the idea that progress is rarely instant or perfect, but comes through persistence, coalition-building and staying grounded in values. He emphasised listening before leading – something I found both humbling and energising.”
Selection Joy for Robyn
2nd Former, Robyn has been selected for the Girls’ U13 London Hockey Squad.
The 12-year-old, who has been playing for just over three years, was nominated for trials by her club, London Wayfarers in Battersea.
“I had to compete against 120 other girls,” Robyn explained. “I start training and playing with them in November. I feel happy and proud to have been selected.”
Robyn will balance her time playing for London County, with performing for LWC’s U13As.
Great Chemistry
The two winners of LWC’s Faraday Prize have been presented with their awards.
Upper Sixth Formers, Oxana and Phoebe were given the trophies by Sternian and Lecturer in Practical Chemistry at the University of Oxford, Dr Andrew Frawley.
Entrants are required to produce a scientific article on a specific molecule and compellingly explain how it has shaped world history.
Suspended from the Spinnaker Tower
It sits 170 metres high over the city of Portsmouth…
And last weekend, the Spinnaker Tower was the destination of choice for LWC’s fearless Catering Manager, Iain Hedley.
He volunteered to abseil down the landmark, in order to raise money for the development of new training facilities at Bagshot Cricket Club.
“I managed to dodge the rain which arrived ten minutes after I stepped out of my harness,” he revealed. “It was a fabulous experience and I had cracking views of the Isle of Wight ferry as it disappeared into the distance!”
Iain has so far raised his target of £1000 and if you’d like to nudge him over it, you can still contribute via his JustGiving page.
Non-Uniform Day Delivers!
Last Friday’s Non-Uniform day raised just over £1300 for this year’s chosen charities.
The funds will be split between two organisations: The Helping Hand for Ukraine and World Child Cancer – both chosen by this year’s LWC Charity Committee.
Upper Sixth Former and Head of the committee, Charlie added, “We’re delighted to have got this year’s fundraising off to such a positive start. Thank you for your donations and we look forward to seeing what else we can achieve together this year.”
Golden Ticket Winners Grab a Treat!
Those lucky enough to have grabbed a golden ticket to mark Roald Dahl Day were given a tour of the LWC kitchens last week.
One ticket was randomly stuck onto a packet of popcorn and delivered to each of our eight Houses.
Those who found one were then invited to see where their meals are created at LWC and given the opportunity to make their own version of our homemade chocolate spread, alongside Charlotte, our pastry chef.
The results were, naturally, wondercrump.
Matilda!
LWC’s Performing Arts Scholars and members of the Bugsy Malone Tech Crew hit the West End this week.
They went to watch Matilda at The Cambridge Theatre as a reward for their hard work throughout the last academic year.
Before attending the matinee performance of the Roald Dahl classic, they visited the nearby Seven Dials Market for lunch.
Hitting the High Notes
She’s performed at some of the most famous opera houses in the world…
Now, soprano, Sarah Fox is joining us at LWC to lead a Vocal Masterclass, followed by an Evening Recital.
Sarah has enjoyed a prestigious career, taking on roles at Covent Garden’s Royal Opera House, in Munich, Barcelona and for the Royal Danish Opera, amongst others. She remains a regular guest on BBC Radio 2 and has been a judge on the BBC’s The Choir.
On Tuesday, 14th October, she will work with a selection of our students in an afternoon workshop (4-6pm) in the Nadine Uppal Theatre, helping to develop technique, expression and stagecraft.
Then in the evening, Sarah will perform an Evening Recital from 7.30pm, with a repertoire ranging from Schubert and Richard Strauss to Cole Porter and Ivor Novello.
All members of the LWC community are invited to attend both events. You can reserve your place via the LWC Box Office.
Still Time to Vote for Orla!
Last week we brought you the story of 2nd Former, Orla.
She’s been shortlisted for the Young Achiever of the Year prize at The Petersfield Awards.
Nominated for her work as a Youth Councillor in the United Kingdom Youth Parliament, having her creative writing published and for remaining consistently optimistic throughout some extended hospital stays, Orla needs the LWC community to step forward in the public vote.
You can pledge your support for Orla up until Sunday, 12th October here.
“A friend from my drama group has also been nominated,” Orla admits. “We’re actually sharing a role in panto this year and one of the rehearsals is just before the Awards Night, which is a bit awkward – but we’re good friends!”
The winners will be announced at a ceremony on Friday, 24th October.
LWC Life
Likely to spend some time in Odiham this weekend?
You can enjoy 2-for-1 on coffees and teas at The Folly Coffee Bar right now, as part of LWC Life.
The family-run social space claims to serve the best coffee and cakes in Hampshire, located on the High Street.
To redeem the offer, simply claim it here and present the voucher emailed to you, or show your LWC Life membership card on your phone.
Still not a member of our benefits scheme for parents, staff and Sternians? Sign up via LWC Life now!
A Lasting Legacy
LWC came to exist because of the generosity of one man.
Baron Sydney Stern left a bequest in his will, with instructions to educate the children of agricultural workers who had lost one or both parents and Lord Wandsworth College was born.
Today, LWC is his legacy, along with our transformative Foundation.
October is Free Wills Month and members of the LWC community are able to write or update a simple will for free, as part of our partnership with Octopus Legacy.
Full details on how to get involved will be hitting your inbox next week.
Athletic Training
It’s designed to push limits and help unlock potential…
Athlete Performance Lab will join us in the 1200 during half-term, offering Athletic Development Training.
Open to 12 to 18-year-olds, the three-day intensive series will be held in our new, sector-leading strength and conditioning suite, The Barn.
The training will take place 1-4pm on Monday, 27th to Wednesday 29th October at a cost of £125. On the the 29th, there’ll be a chance for parents to join their children in a competitive pairs workout.
APL is the latest camp and activity provider to use our facilities and we’re delighted to have them on board.
Bookings can be made here.
Staff Spotlight
The next new member of staff to be thrown into the spotlight is Teacher of Business Studies, Economics, Enterprise and History, Adam Reid.
Mr Reid joins LWC from Cardiff Sixth Form College, where he was Senior Vice Principal. Before that, he was Head of History at Christ’s Hospital and Principal Deputy Head at Mount Kelly in Tavistock.
Aside from teaching, Mr Reid will also focus on the 1200 and driving forward the sustainability required to help protect it for generations to come.
He adds, “I’m also particularly excited to be involved in LWC’s fabled DW programme and getting involved with the CCF – although the old soldier in me (an infantry officer before teaching) still struggles with brown boots (mine were black!).”
Out of This World
It isn’t often that the photos we feature in LWC News come from another galaxy.
But as World Space Week begins tomorrow, we thought we’d share these incredible shots taken from the 1200, by LWC’s Teacher of Maths, Dave Widdowson, using the College telescope.
Featured are the Dumbbell Nebula (1360 light years away from LWC), the Whirlpool Galaxy (31 million light years from here) and the more familiar Moon.
We think they’re extraordinary.
If you have a great shot taken in the 1200, we’d love to see it via stories@lordwandsworth.org
Half-Term Camps
Half-term really is looming and there are a number of camps taking place at LWC.
Activate Camps is running a three-day Hockey Camp for 6-16-year-olds, from Monday, 27th October to Wednesday, 29th October.
Further details, including how to book, can be found here.
Tennis Camp
Meanwhile, even though Wimbledon seems like a lifetime ago, there’s still an opportunity to get out onto the court this half-term with a Tennis Camp for 4-10-year-olds and those aged ten and over.
William May-Miller Coaching is running the camps for all skill levels from Monday, 27th October to Thursday, 30th October.
More information and how to book can be found here.
The Changing Face of School Dinners
Preparing breakfast, lunch, dinner and everything in between for up to a thousand LWC students and staff at any one time is no mean feat.
Thank goodness then, that the person in charge of heading up LWC’s kitchen has some four decades of experience behind him.
Adrian Culver arrived in the 1200 at the end of the last academic year, bringing with him lessons learned from a career which began in the fine dining eateries of the capital.
“I spent six years working in London at places like 190 Queen’s Gate, under Anthony-Worrall Thompson,” he explains. “I moved restaurants with him to Dell Ugo on Frith Street in Soho. It was high-volume, fast-paced, 20 chefs in the kitchen and 800 covers a day. It was all a great education and I was in charge of the kitchen there at the age of 23/24.”
Since then, Adrian has run his own catering business, won a host of awards for his food at The Phoenix Inn at Hartley Wintney, before making the move into education and leading teams at Winchester College, Bedford School and King Edward’s Witley.
“I want the students to be excited about what they’re eating,” he points out. “They should feel contented and fuelled up. I love the engagement I have with them here. Knowing that you’re feeding the whole school and a generation that’s going to go on and thrive is great.”
Adrian plans to evolve the much-loved LWC menus to incorporate even more seasonal, local produce, whilst heavily engaging students in dish selection using House-based feedback sessions.
“I love to receive thank you letters and emails from people who appreciate what we do,” he reveals. “Seeing engagement from students who are excited to see what’s on the menu is what it’s all about.”
You can read more about Adrian and his culinary adventures in the 1200, here.
Key Dates
Class of 2025 Art Exhibition, The Prideaux Gallery
Ongoing until Thursday, 23rd October
Interhouse Music, Sutton Hall
7pm, Friday, 10th October
Sixth Form Subject Fair, Gavin Hall
9am, Saturday, 11th October
Evening Recital: Sarah Fox, Nadine Uppal Theatre
7.30pm, Tuesday 14th October
LWC Golf Society 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