Welcome to LWC News
Half term is here!
It’s difficult to believe that we only started the new school year six weeks ago.
Since then, we’ve become finalists in the Independent Schools of the Year Awards, received a glowing review by the Good Schools Guide and have now made it into the top one percent of schools nationally for value added at A-level.
Alongside the usual hive of activity in the 1200 this week, we’ve also been looking to the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.
Following on from Saturday’s Subjects Fair, 5th Form have had a taste of Sixth Form life, whilst our Upper Sixth have explored options post-LWC.
We’re looking forward to walking them through those next steps in the coming months.
In the meantime, enjoy the highlights from LWC below and have a restful break. Please remember, 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
LWC Achieves Highest Possible Rating
LWC has been notified that it’s now in the top one per cent of schools and colleges nationally, having achieved Alps 1 status.
Alps (A-level Performance System) is a national benchmarking tool that measures how much progress students make in Sixth Form, compared to others at educational providers across the country.
“This is a clear sign that something rather special is happening at LWC,” added Deputy Head (Academic), Angela Watson.
“Our pupils aren’t just doing well; they’re soaring beyond expectations. This success reflects the skill and dedication of our staff, the determination of our pupils and a school culture that refuses to settle for just what is expected. It’s a brilliant moment for the whole community and one we’re very proud to celebrate.”
Interhouse Music
Ask any Houseparent and they’ll tell you that Interhouse Music is one of the most hotly anticipated of all Interhouse events.
Hours of rehearsals in kitchens, courtyards and common rooms boil down to one night in Sutton Hall.
Last Friday’s event raised the roof and saw School House crowned Interhouse Music Champions.
But the real joy was the variety of exceptional music-making showcased and the broad smiles of those on stage.
Leading at LWC
Did you know there are eight student-led committees at LWC?
From Gender Equality to Neurodiversity and Anti-Bullying to Charity, the aim is to amplify student voice and enrich the College community, whilst offering the opportunity to develop leadership skills.
Head of Pupil Wellbeing, Kirsty Jackman is also staff lead for our Peer Mentors Committee.
“Our Peer Mentors are a vital part of our whole-school wellbeing strategy,” she explained.
“Each mentor completes mental health first aid training and works to provide meaningful support to pupils within their Houses. This is also a wonderful leadership opportunity for our Lower Sixth students – allowing them to develop empathy, communication skills and responsibility, whilst making a positive difference to our community.”
The LWC Women Striving in STEM
It’s fair to say that at LWC, our teachers love their subjects.
To mark Ada Lovelace Day on Tuesday, we asked some of our female STEM teachers to tell us what they enjoy the most about their discipline.
Ada Lovelace was an English mathematician, widely regarded as being the world’s first computer programmer.
Every year on the second Tuesday in October, her efforts are recognised in a bid to raise awareness of women’s contribution to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths).
Ada was the daughter of English poet, Lord Byron and had designed a flying machine by the time she was 12. It’s fair to say she was ahead of the curve.
We’re proud to celebrate Ada’s contribution and the work of our own women working in STEM fields, who continue to inspire.
Sport Scholarships
Monday saw LWC’s astro, football and rugby pitches bustling with activity, alongside the netball and tennis courts, cricket nets and swimming pool.
Sport Scholarship Day presented current and prospective students with an opportunity to showcase their skills, whilst allowing our coaching staff to observe their talent and determine how they can contribute to the success of sport at LWC in the future.
You can read more about our philosophy around sport and the Performance Pathways we offer here.
Halloween Hits Bramley!
Halloween may still be a couple of weeks away, but Bramley House entered into the spirit of pumpkin carving with gusto this week.
As you can see, there were some fairly intricate designs on display for Interhouse Pumpkin Carving.
Why do we carve pumpkins at Halloween?
The most popular story is that it originates from a 17th-century Irish folktale about a man named ‘Stingy Jack’, who repeatedly tricked the Devil.
As punishment, the story goes that the Devil forced him to roam the Earth with nothing but a glowing ember to light his way.
Inspired by Jack’s story, a tradition emerged in Ireland which involved carving vegetables with scary faces to frighten away Stingy Jack. With the influx of Irish immigrants to the US in the 18th and 19th centuries, bountiful pumpkin supplies led to this becoming the fruit of choice.
Get Christmas in Your Calendar
We know….
With Halloween not even here, why would you think about Christmas?
Well, we’re just giving it a teeny tiny mention to encourage you to save the date for our Carols and Christmas Market.
On Thursday, 11th December from 6-9pm, join us in the open air for our carol service, followed by a spectacular fireworks display.
More than 50 stallholders will have their artisan gifts on display at our Christmas Market and you can warm yourself up with a complimentary mulled wine or hot chocolate, along with delicious chilli or hog roast to purchase.
Add it to your calendar now and we’ll bring you ticket details after half-term.
Playing Out in Court
Goldilocks and the Three Bears took to the dock last week as part of an introduction to law for 2nd Form.
Students were given the opportunity to role-play characters from the fairy tale as part of a series of sessions delivered by All Rise Workshops.
The interactive guide to the legal system culminated in a mock trial, complete with the accused, witnesses, barristers, jurors, court reporters, court artists and a disgruntled member of the public gallery (Mrs Jackman) who was later arrested.
Together with learning more about the legal system, the sessions also developed teamwork, creativity, critical reasoning and resilience.
Schooling From a Soprano
She may have appeared in some of the world’s most famous opera houses…
But this week, soprano Sarah Fox arrived in LWC’s Nadine Uppal Theatre to deliver a Vocal Masterclass to students, followed by an Evening Recital.
Sarah offered incredible insight into the artistry of singing and performance, along with providing an exquisite evening of music, which ranged from the work of 18th-century composers to 20th-century entertainers.
Students Get Set for Cabaret Evening
Next up from the Performing Arts Department is our ever-popular Cabaret Evening.
Led by our Performing Arts Student Leadership Team, the event features a variety of performances from across the Music, Drama and Dance disciplines.
Happening at the end of the first week back after half-term, (Friday, 7th November from 7pm), you can book your complimentary tickets now via the LWC Box Office.
Dazzling Debut
LWC’s Clay Shooting Team made an impressive debut on the competition circuit this week.
A team of four competed in the Marlborough Sporting Clay Shield at the prestigious Barbury Shooting School, alongside other independent schools including Rugby, Harrow and Millfield.
Out of 42 teams, LWC finished an impressive 16th overall and placed 9th out of 42 in the Flush Shoot.
LWC Head of Shooting, Andy Fuller added, “This was an outstanding achievement for the team’s first competitive outing and a great sign of things to come.”
CanSat Crew Hit Thorpe Park
The UK CanSat competition gives students the opportunity to develop and test their skills whilst working on a small-scale space project.
They’re tasked with designing and building a satellite simulation, the size and shape of a drinks can, which they’ll aim to launch in March.
LWC’s CanSat group meets every Saturday and fresh from last year’s successful launch, two new teams have been formed.
Team Rescue Can are designing a device capable of sending out a GPS signal, whilst Team DROP want to use gyroscopic sensors to track stability during descent.
To test out their sensor with the relevant twists, turns and acceleration required, the team spent last Sunday on the rollercoasters at Thorpe Park.
CanSat lead, Dr Esther Haydock explained, “Unfortunately, on the day the sensor failed. But undeterred, the students valiantly still went on the rides.”
You can follow LWC’s journey in the CanSat competition here.
Taking Inspiration
LWC’s Lower Sixth Artists spent a research day in London this week, with incoming Artist in Residence, Keziah Burt.
“The day began with time spent sketching and reflecting in the V&A’s sculpture gallery,” explained Teacher of Art, Graham Mobbs. “Later, students visited the Bowman Sculpture Gallery in St James’s — a private space currently showcasing the beautifully carved stone pieces by Massimiliano Pelletti. This was a real highlight of the day, where students were also able to speak with the gallery owner who shared insights into life as an artist and the inner workings of the gallery world.
“This day will feed directly into the students’ work next half-term, when they begin creating their own sculptured heads as part of Keziah’s residency.”
Widening Worlds
This half-term, LWC is travelling to two extraordinary parts of the world.
Currently in Nepal is a group (pictured), led by our CCF contingent, but open to those outside of the force.
The trip is taking in the country’s culture, the World Heritage Site in Kathmandu, views of the Himalayas, national parks and safaris in the jungle.
Meanwhile, on Sunday, LWC’s Geography Department leads a trip to Iceland, to explore the natural beauty of the land of fire and ice.
We look forward to sharing the experiences from both after half-term.
Well Supported
A well-fitting sports bra needs to be more than an afterthought.
As part of LWC’s commitment to top-level girls’ sport, PEBE (a leading sports bra brand for schools) were our guests in the 1200 this week.
They delivered an educational talk to all year groups, explaining why a correctly-fitting bra not only improves comfort, but prevents long-term damage and boosts performance.
The talks were followed by an optional measuring service on Tuesday, with the invitation extended to the wider LWC community on Wednesday.
1st Form Find the Library
A love of reading can last a lifetime…
LWC’s 1st Form were given an exclusive tour of the new-look Library last week and presented with their own copies of a book it’s hoped will inspire.
“The Final Year by Matt Goodfellow is an excellent read for pupils transitioning between primary and secondary schools,” explained Library Assistant, Helen Komrower.
“Although written in verse and perhaps different from other fiction that pupils may have read, it is really accessible, and the writing is superb. It is a book which explores difficult family circumstances, but is filled with understanding, hope and also has an excellent follow-up – The First Year – which I very much hope our pupils will want to read next!”
Future Ready
One of LWC’s aims is to expose students to a world of possibility.
This week, the world of entrepreneurship, finance and investment management took centre stage in the latest in our series of Industry Roundtables.
Interested students from 5th and Sixth Form heard from LWC parent, Aidan Neill about his career path and insights from his areas of expertise.
LWC Life
Made any half-term plans yet?
Fear not, your LWC Life membership has you covered.
Alongside offers on experiences at the likes of iFly in Basingstoke and MeetspaceVR, there are new deals being added all the time for leading restaurant brands – to complete your days out.
Right now, you can find a range of bespoke discounts at eateries from Yo! Sushi and Pizza Express to The Queens Head at Dogmersfield and The Bel and Dragon in Odiham.
If you still need to sign up to LWC Life, our curated benefits scheme for the LWC community, take the time to do so over half-term and reap the rewards in the run-up to Christmas!
Crossing the 1200
We’d wager that we have one of the best school settings for cross-country races…
Yesterday saw the whole school take part in our annual Interhouse Cross-Country.
Congratulations to everyone who took part and then cheered from the sidelines upon their finish.
Fine Fairway
The LWC Golf Society enjoyed a Golf Day at Farnham Sands Golf Club this week.
The Surrey club provided sandy terrain, a woodland setting and rolling countryside views for the event.
The LWC Golf Society is open to Sternians, LWC parents, staff and governors and you can sign up here.
Girls on Expedition
After the boys spent the night in Sheephouse Copse last month, it was the turn of the 4th Form girls last weekend.
The group undertook their training exercise for their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
Ahead of their final assessed expedition on the Isle of Wight next year, the girls were able to develop and put into practice vital skills.
The Bronze Award consists of three other categories alongside the Expedition: Skill, Volunteering and Physical, which all require a commitment to a discipline over a three or six month period.
Watch Your Head
Our Upper Sixth Physicists were captured investigating circular motion using unconventional methods this week.
“We calculated that the slowest the bucket could be rotated with the 4 litres of water staying in it (and not landing on Toby’s head) was once every 2 seconds,” revealed Teacher of Physics, Jeni Loud.
No Upper Sixth were harmed in this experiment.
LWC Connect Networking Drinks
The LWC community is a strong one and we love getting together!
Join us at The Lost Boy in Farnham from 7pm on Thursday, 13th November for the next LWC Connect Networking Drinks.
It’s a chance to catch up with fellow parents, Sternians and Headmaster, Adam Williams before the chaos of the Christmas period kicks in!
Reserve your free place here and sign up to become a member of LWC Connect, if you haven’t already!
Staff Spotlight
This week, we turn our attention to one of our new sports graduates, Mae Truman-Davies.
Born in Gibraltar, she’s represented Britain’s overseas territory internationally in netball ten times.
Having studied Sport and Exercise Science at the University of Exeter and earned a Master’s in Sport and Exercise Psychology, she arrived in the 1200 at the start of term.
“I’m really keen to work with the children and help them enjoy being active through sport,” she admits. “It’s so rewarding to see how sport can boost their health, confidence and teach valuable skills like teamwork.”
Mae is also a self-confessed adrenaline-junkie and has (in her words) ‘a slightly odd obsession with puzzles and brain teasers.’
Secret Garden
Nestled behind School House and alongside the Stern Farm buildings on the opposite side of campus, you’ll find some stunning sights.
LWC farmer, Paul Sigley has created some glorious wildflower meadows as part of our commitment to the long-term sustainability of the 1200.
You’ll find millet, sorghum, buckwheat, linseed, white mustard, oil radish, brown mustard, phacelia, spring barley, sunflowers and triticale there.
Mr Sigley revealed, “They have all been chosen to provide nectar and pollen sources for insects, together with small seeds for our bird population in winter months.”
If you have a great shot taken in the 1200, we’d love to see it via stories@lordwandsworth.org
Half-Term Camps
Still looking for half-term inspiration?
Athlete Performance Lab is running Athletic Development Training for 12 to 18 year-olds in our new strength and conditioning suite, The Barn.
The training will take place from 1-4pm on Monday, 27th to Wednesday 29th October at a cost of £125. On the 29th, there’ll be a chance for parents to join their children in a competitive pairs’ workout.
Bookings can be made here.
Tennis Camp
Meanwhile, if it’s tennis you’re after, William May-Miller Coaching is running a Tennis Camp at LWC for 4-10-year-olds and those aged ten and over.
The activities are for all skill levels from Monday, 27th October to Thursday, 30th October.
More information and how to book can be found here.
Three Dimensional Thinking
On the other side of half-term, we’re joined in the 1200 by portrait and figurative artist and sculptor, Keziah Burt, for a three-week residency.
After the success of Mark Spray’s residency last year and the extraordinary work he produced with students, Keziah will be bringing a more three-dimensional perspective.
“I always made mud pies when I was young,” she smiles. “I was always sculpting with whatever my mum would give me!” Interestingly though, she believes that her life as an artist may never have come to pass, were it not for the very traits that at one point, threatened to hold her back.
“I was diagnosed with dyslexia late,” she reveals. “I went through my entire degree before finding out and I was only diagnosed with ADHD last year. It now makes so much sense.”
Keziah admits that she struggled through school, until she found art and in particular, a teacher called Mr Miles.
“He was the teacher who taught me how to sculpt,” she states. “He is actually why I went on to train as a teacher, because I wanted to be him. He recently died and I’m totally traumatised by it. He was a ceramic sculptor and he just made me feel fearless. He made everything fun, helped me to access joy and celebrated my successes.”
Since then, there have been many more successes. Keziah trained as a secondary school art teacher and continues to have spells in the classroom when her art allows. She has sculpted the late Queen for the National Army Museum and produced arguably the first likeness of His Majesty the King, on the day the crown was passed from mother to son.
But her abstract work also has its fair share of admirers. Eight of her mindfulness sculptures have recently completed a four-month run at the world-renowned Saatchi Gallery in London.
Despite this, she primarily sees herself as a chaotic mum of two and military wife, doing something she loves in her small studio on the outskirts of Camberley. Now she’s bringing her infectious and infinitely likeable style to LWC.
“I love being in the classroom,” Keziah admits. “Kids are complete sponges. I can guide them towards that light-bulb moment and from there, the speed at which they can jump off is startling. It’s the lure of the light-bulb moments that keeps me coming back to the classroom, it’s like nothing else. In fact, I’d say it’s better than creating an amazing piece of sculpture. That moment when a child feels a sense of bravery and they’re sitting in that zone is incomparable.”
Keziah will work with a range of LWC students, including Sixth Form and GCSE artists during her time with us from Monday, 3rd November. She’ll also lead a weekend workshop for a small number of LWC parents on Saturday, 15th November from 10am until 4pm in the LWC Art School. Those taking part will produce individual sculptures from a live model and there will be a cost of £45 each to cover materials. To book please email Graham Mobbs.
You can read more of Keziah’s story here.
Key Dates
Contours of Life Exhibition by Keziah Burt & Miranda Carter, Prideaux
Ongoing from Monday, 3rd November until Saturday, 22nd November
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
Autumn Term Sports Photos
Wednesday, 12th 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
Autumn Term Music Concert, Gavin Hall
7pm, Friday, 28th November
LWC Connect Networking Breakfast (IT and Tech), Zanetas
7.45am, Thursday, 4th December
Student Christmas Lunch, Julyans
Wednesday, 10th December
Carols & Christmas Market
6pm, Thursday, 11th December