Welcome to LWC News
This week has epitomised just how varied seven days at LWC can be.
Following Tuesday’s moving Armistice Day Service, our community was out in force days later to cheer on our sports teams, on the very same sports fields.
With excitement around our inspirational Artist-in-Residence and a stream of exceptional Performing Arts events in the calendar – it feels good to be in the 1200 right now.
Have a great weekend.
As ever, 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
We Will Remember Them
The LWC community came together on Tuesday for our Armistice Day Service at the War Memorial.
The service was led this year by Reverend Mark from our local church in Long Sutton.
Nearly a thousand students and members of staff gathered and observed wreaths being laid at the memorial, in honour of those lost in service – including 25 Sternians.
Reverend Mark added, “I was impressed by the quietness and attention of the students during the service. Not a single sound from them, which in a service that stresses the silence of guns, and in remembering the fallen for two minutes, was very impressive. It was a privilege to lead the service and make a contribution, as the students consider their part in national life, with their forebears at their age having given their lives for our country.”
Cadets Fly the Flag for LWC
On Remembrance Sunday, LWC’s CCF cadets represented the College and the force at two local events.
They marched to Long Sutton before forming a Guard of Honour at the village church.
This was followed by a parade at South Warnborough War Memorial.
CCF Contingent Leader, Alex Hamilton reflected, “The cadets were highly commended by people from both villages on their appearance and their drill. They provided a fitting and poignant addition to both acts of Remembrance.”
Students Shine in Sellout Show
It was a showcase of talent from across the disciplines of Music, Dance and Drama.
Last week’s Cabaret Evening was a huge hit, with Gavin Hall reaching capacity for the ever-popular event.
The night was pulled together by LWC’s Performing Arts Student Leadership Team, who excelled themselves.
Tonight, you can watch LWC’s Music Department in Concert from 7pm in the Nadine Uppal Theatre. Tickets are still available, via the LWC Box Office, to see our talented staff and peripatetic teachers performing alongside students.
LWC Under the Lights
A coach-load of LWC supporters turned out for last Friday night’s showcase hockey fixture against Pangbourne College.
LWC’s 1st Xl Girls’ Hockey Team and the U15A Girls’ Hockey Team each put in a great performance, cheered on by their peers.
Contours of Life
Yet to catch the extraordinary work of LWC’s Artist-in-Residence, Keziah Burt and fellow artist, Miranda Carter?
Their work forms part of the Contours of Life Exhibition in The Prideaux Gallery right now and you’re very welcome to join us for the Private View tonight (Friday, 14th November) from 6pm.
Figurative artist, Keziah continues to work with students from across the College as part of her three-week residency.
Tomorrow, she’ll lead an exclusive One Day Figurative Masterclass for parents in the LWC Art School.
Jesse Represents Team GB in Turkey
Laser run combines running and shooting.
Fans of the modern pentathlon will know that it forms the final event in this multi-disciplinary sport.
It also turns out that 1st Former, Jesse is pretty good at it.
The 12-year-old has just returned from Alanya in Turkey, where he represented Team GB at the European Laser Run Championships.
Jesse finished third in the relay event, having led right until the final lap and putting in a great performance in the individual laser run.
Jesse’s mum, Hazel reflected, “I can only admire his determination, that of his teammates and every single competitor out there. It was so moving to see them all give their best with such grace. Just being there – knowing how hard they’ve trained, the sacrifices they’ve made and seeing them proudly represent their country was honestly amazing.”
Well done Jesse.
Nesta Conquers Ben Nevis
From one extraordinary 1st Form feat, to another…
Ben Nevis, sitting 1,345 metres above sea level is the UK’s highest mountain.
Now, LWC 1st Former, Nesta has joined the select group of those to have conquered it.
Nesta’s appetite for climbing began back in 2018 with Mount Snowden in North Wales, to which she returned a few years later.
Having scaled Helvellyn earlier this year on a school trip, she was ready to take the next step.
“The weather offered plenty of drama,” explained Nesta’s mum, Jo. “From strong winds that blew Nesta sideways, to sleet and snow-covered paths and temperatures that felt like -15°C near the top. Yet, as we reached the summit, the winds stopped and an eerie stillness hung around us. All the effort, cold and struggle melted away – replaced by quiet pride and awe along with some big hugs!”
What an achievement.
Lula the Extraordinary Linguist
From physical challenges, to those requiring a different set of skills.
Upper Sixth Former, Lula has been awarded a commendation in the esteemed Stephen Spender Prize for Poetry Translation, having translated the poem La Mère et La Patrie from French into English.
Teacher of French and Spanish at LWC, Jan Hepworth added, “Only the finest linguistic minds can understand the nuance and emotion of poetry translation. It isn’t simply a question of words, but of communicating the poet’s emotion.”
It’s Good to Talk
Sutton House is on a mission.
Following on from the efforts of School House to raise awareness of and funds for Movember, Sutton wants LWC to come together for a chat and a stroll.
To mark International Men’s Day on Wednesday (19th November), the House is encouraging as many men and boys to join them for the Men’s Mental Health Mile.
“The aim is to role model healthy masculinity and open conversation by walking together and having an open chat about how everyone’s feeling,” explained Sutton Houseparent, Louis Yates.
Mr Yates will lead a walk leaving from Sutton House at 1.15pm on Wednesday, but anyone unable to make it is encouraged to take a stroll around main campus together.
You can read Louis Yates’ blog on the benefits of encouraging our young men to be open, on our website.
The Countdown Begins…
It’s less than a month until LWC’s Carols and Christmas Market.
Yes…yes, we know.
Naturally, you need not panic about the Christmas shopping you need to do between now and then, because with over 50 local stallholders selling their artisan goods, we have you covered.
Stallholders including Georgie Deakin from Dinkydeaks.
Georgie began creating jewellery and accessories during lockdown, whilst teaching remotely for a local prep school. She quickly discovered the therapeutic benefits, has grown a business from it and hasn’t looked back!
“My collections include a wide range of interchangeable charms that hang from sterling silver hooped earrings,” she explains. “I’m also launching silver ear, wrist and hair cuffs made at my bench here in Hampshire.”
Georgie admits to being excited about the Carols and Christmas Market: “I’ve heard the Christmas vibe is amazing at LWC and I’m looking forward to embracing that!”
Free tickets to the event from 6pm on Thursday, 11th December are available now via the LWC Box Office and include a complimentary hot chocolate or mulled wine, along with our traditionally spectacular fireworks.
U15A Boys Reach Regional Final
The cup runs continue for LWC’s sports teams.
The U15A Boys’ Rugby Team are the latest of our rugby sides to progress to the next round of their respective competition.
They beat Marlborough College in front of an excitable home crowd on Wednesday to enter the next stage of the Continental Tyres U15 Schools Cup and the regional final.
Coach, Paul Donald reflected, “The boys came through a really tough examination in this game; not just of their rugby, but of their character and team spirit. In every cup run there is a game when things don’t go exactly as planned. But the way the U15s stuck at it was a testament to their attitude and work ethic, as well as the special bond they have. Thanks to all who came to support – they really were like a 16th player.”
Photo Credits: LWC Communications & Henry (L6)
LWC Girls in Cup Crusade
Meanwhile, the U15 Girls’ Football Team has progressed to round 3 of the Independent Schools Football Association (ISFA) Cup after a decisive victory over Devon’s Mount Kelly on Tuesday.
Coach, Scott Sanderson summarised: “The focus was on teamwork, effort, and resilience which the girls delivered in style. It was a complete team performance, with Izzy sharp in goal, the defence solid and composed, and the midfield tireless in both directions. A superb win. Well done girls!”
LWC’s U15 Boys’ Football Team will play their 3rd round ISFA Bowl clash with Kew House at the beginning of next month.
A Competition With No Limits
It was a huge hit with students last year and last weekend, LWC returned to the UK Space Design Competition.
A team of 12 represented the College in the challenge at Oxford Brookes University on Saturday.
The UKSDC sees students forming a larger team with other schools. The aim is to win a contract to build somewhere in the solar system, taking into consideration different aspects of engineering.
LWC’s Teacher of Physics, Astronomy and Environmental Science, Dr Esther Haydock added, “This year’s mission was to design a long-distance cargo ship. Hari took the role of company president, coordinating the different teams. Theo and Vasilisa were part of the presentation team for the final judging. We were also lucky enough to have a tour of Oxford Brookes’ Formula Student Labs. It was a packed day of hard work, fun and new friendships formed, along with some wonderful minibus karaoke on the way home.”
High Flyers
Not content with providing a pivotal role at last weekend’s local Remembrance events, the CCF took to the skies on Saturday.
A glorious, clear November day allowed for LWC’s RAF cadets to take off from RAF Little Rissington in Gloucestershire and complete two flights each.
CCF Contingent Leader, Alex Hamilton explained, “Every cadet was able to take the controls for themselves and do some hands-on flying of a Viking glider. This takes them a step closer to their gliding scholarship with the air cadets.”
An Oar-Some Start
Last weekend saw LWC’s Marathon Canoe Teams take to the water in their first competitive race of the school year.
The Charles Hicks Memorial Challenge, organised by Basingstoke Canoe Club, saw paddlers complete a 16-mile route as relay teams of two.
Head of Marathon Canoeing, Adam Reid explained, “Blessed by glorious autumn sunshine, and with an impressive field of enthusiastic supporters, the pupils did themselves proud – particularly given that none of them had even set foot in a marathon kayak before the start of term. It all bodes very well for the English Schools National Championships this weekend and for the campaigning season proper, which starts in February.”
Taking to the Pool
LWC’s swimmers put in a great performance in last week’s gala against Churcher’s College.
Head of Swimming, Jeni Loud revealed, “Several pupils represented LWC for the first time and impressed with their performances. A number also competed out of their age group and rose to the challenge superbly.
“There were numerous wins, plenty of cheering, and a host of season and personal bests. A fantastic afternoon of racing, teamwork and LWC spirit — well done to all involved!”
Banked Insight
LWC’s A-level Economics and Business students have been given an insight into investment banking.
Neil Cullen, an experienced Managing Director at Citibank, led an interactive session based on his experience. He also offered a glimpse into the workings of investment banks and their role within the financial sector and wider world.
Head of Business, Economics and Enterprise, Tom Flowerdew added, “Neil also shared his passion for supporting and nurturing new talent. We are incredibly grateful to him for his time and input in supporting students who are thinking about life after LWC. As a current parent and Sternian himself, he exemplified the incredible value that the wider LWC community can bring in supporting our students and enriching their experience of academic subjects.”
Literature Brought to Life
LWC’s Lower Sixth English Literature students took a trip to the East Midlands to watch Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? last week.
Edward Albee’s production was performed at Leicester’s Curve Theatre.
LWC’s Head of English, Chris Radmann explained, “To see a set text in performance was an opportunity not to be missed – and we were not disappointed. The long trek to and from Leicester was well worth it: in a modern, intimate theatre, our front and second-row seats made us feel as though we were part of the action. Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? is a tricky beast – but our pupils felt the superb performance helped it all to make sense!”
Sports Teams Assemble
LWC’s sports teams gathered for their annual team photos this week.
A damp Wednesday saw them come together in Gavin Hall for the shoot of hockey, rugby and football teams.
You can order photos from the School Photography Company here.
Order by Saturday, 22nd November to take advantage of their exclusive prices.
Autumn Term Spectacular Beckons
In two weeks time we stage the largest musical event of the term.
The Autumn Term Music Concert is on Friday, 28th November from 7pm in Gavin Hall and celebrates the talent and diversity of our College musicians.
The Concert Band and LWC Choir will perform along with various ensembles and soloists.
Tickets are available via the LWC Box Office.
Deadline Incoming
We carry a lot of numbers around in our heads, from PINs to smartphone passcodes..
But if you know someone interested in joining LWC, the numbers they need now are 1.12.25.
It’s just over two weeks until our registration deadline for Year 7 (1st Form), Year 9 (3rd Form) and Sixth Form.
More details about the next steps towards a transformative LWC education can be found here.
LWC Life at Zanetas
Fancy injecting some Saturday morning sweetness into your life?
Our Zanetas Coffee Shop, based in our contemporary Sixth Form space is open every Saturday morning to all, between 8.30 & 11.30am.
So if you’re looking to warm up on the touchlines or feel like a fuel stop after strolling the 1200, we’d love to see you.
From now until the end of term, LWC Life members can grab a hot drink and cake bundle from Zanetas at any time for just £2!
Flash your digital LWC Life membership card or download a redemption voucher from the LWC Life website and you too can join in with the joy that is Zanetas’ brownies (other sweet treats are available).
Still not signed up to our LWC Life benefits scheme? You can do so here.
Athlete Performance Lab Returns
Following a successful October half-term camp, Athlete Performance Lab is returning to The Barn this Christmas for more Athletic Development Training.
Open to anyone between the ages of 12-18, the intensive three-day training series aims to unlock potential in our new, sector-leading strength and conditioning space.
The sessions are running from Monday 15th to Wednesday 17th December, between 10am and 1pm, at a cost of £125 for all three days.
Places are limited and you can your secure your spot by emailing bookings@athleteperformancelab.co.uk
Sweet Season
Last year, LWC collected more than 170 empty seasonal treat tubs for Greene King’s Tub2Pub initiative.
This year, we’re hoping to beat that figure.
The scheme aims to collect as many plastic sweets and biscuit containers as possible, in order to recycle them and donate the proceeds to Macmillan Cancer Support.
If you already have a few empties lying around (we won’t tell anyone), they can be dropped into Grab and Go in Julyans Dining Hall. We’ll happily continue to take them off your hands until the new year.
You can find out more here.
Supporter Update
Donations made to the Lord Wandsworth Foundation and wider College really do change lives.
Our latest LWC Supporter Update is now available – giving an insight into the ways in which your generosity can help.
It’s available to view here.
Staff Spotlight
Step forward Teacher of Business Studies, Economics and Enterprise, Rodwell Khumalo for this week’s Staff Spotlight.
Zimbabwe-born Mr Khumalo joined us in the 1200 in September, having taught in Maidenhead, Wales and within a number of international schools beforehand.
He’s happy to immerse himself in all that LWC has to offer: “Education is beyond the realm of the classroom,” he explains. “I enjoy interacting with students who I may not teach, through sport, clubs and in House.”
“What Does a Successful Boy Look Like?”
LWC’s Headmaster, Adam Williams will be part of a panel discussing exactly this, tomorrow (Saturday, 15th November) from 9am at Pilgrims’ School in Winchester.
This is the first time that Pilgrims’ Parly (a regular event in which senior educational leaders reflect on a topic) has been opened up to parents beyond the prep school.
“For decades, schools have measured success through exam results, university offers and leadership roles. The speed at which the landscape beyond the school gates is evolving, demands a review of what success looks like in boys’ education and whether we need to reconsider how we educate, assess and inspire boys.”
Find out what Mr Williams has to say tomorrow. Anyone interested in attending is asked to confirm by email.
Gorgeous Glow
This week’s pictoral offering comes courtesy of LWC parent, Phill.
“Friday evening pick-up saw the largest, most amber of moons imaginable,” he explains.
“I took these snaps on my iPhone. Admittedly, it’s difficult to capture the moon’s beauty through a phone lens!”
We think you did a pretty good job Phill.
If you have a great shot of the 1200, please send it our way via stories@lordwandsworth.org.
From Gosden to General Practice
For around ten thousand near-medical graduates, this is a tense time.
They’re currently applying for the ideal location to complete their two Foundation Years, bringing an end to their medical training.
One of them is Sternian, Lizzie Wood. A former Gosden girl, Lizzie will graduate from the University of Bristol in June and embark upon a career as a doctor.
“I’ve applied to complete my Foundation Years in the Wessex region which includes all of Hampshire,” she explains. “I could be based anywhere from Bournemouth to Basingstoke. It’s basically like an internship where you do four six-month blocks and then get to specialise.”
Despite media claims of low pay, long hours and an over-subscribed job market, Lizzie admits to being excited to be entering the NHS as a doctor. A refreshingly optimistic outlook, but an unsurprising one, coming from a Sternian.
“I’m very happy with my decision,” she admits. “I really enjoy the work and love the mix of people, skills and being involved in life journeys, as well as the science and research aspect. But I think one of the biggest challenges is balancing life and medicine. LWC really gave me the grounding to balance a lot of things, because of the opportunities on offer and it also taught me not to give up and to be resilient in the face of difficulty.”
During her time at LWC, Lizzie’s ‘balance’ was maintained by finding a sport that she loved, in the form of weightlifting.
“When I was in Junior House at LWC, I was quite overweight and I found it quite difficult to enjoy team sports because of that. I just felt that I struggled with it and wasn’t feeling my best,” she admits. “But finding a sport I loved, that focused on what my body could do was really beneficial. In 3rd or 4th Form, I just started going to the gym and I really enjoyed the support I got from everybody. Mr Singh and Mr Hazell were great, I got my own plan and it really switched my life around.”
LWC not only helped Lizzie find a balance between life and studies, but inadvertently led her to a career in medicine in the first place.
“I wanted to be a vet,” she continues. “But then I went on a biology trip to Indonesia with LWC, as part of Operation Wallacea,” (a series of biological and conservation research programmes). “During the second week of the trip, a few people became ill and I spent some time talking to the group doctor about what I was going to do next and career options. I hadn’t really considered medicine until then and it ended up setting me on this path.”
The path has so far taken Lizzie to different parts of the country on placement and more recently to Tanzania, where she spent seven weeks working at a government hospital.
You can read more about Lizzie’s journey to becoming a doctor and about her experiences so far, on the LWC website.
Key Dates
Contours of Life Exhibition by Keziah Burt & Miranda Carter, The Prideaux Gallery
Ongoing until Saturday, 22nd November
Contours of Life Exhibition Private View, The Prideaux Gallery
6pm, Friday, 14th November
LWC Music Department in Concert, Nadine Uppal Theatre
7pm, Friday, 14th November
Non-Uniform Day
Friday, 21st 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
End of Autumn Term
Noon, Friday, 12th December
Beginning of Spring Term
Monday, 5th January