Welcome to LWC News
Another week has flown by in the 1200 and there are certainly no Black Fridays around here…
It’s been a packed week full of sporting moments, the odd surprise and the hunt for the ultimate LWC burger (yes, really).
As ever, keep your contributions coming via stories@lordwandsworth.org and find the highlights from the last week below…
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 Girls Make ISFA Cup Quarter-Finals
A third cup game in as many weeks for LWC’s U15 Girls’ Football Team has seen them progress to the quarter-finals of the ISFA U15 Girls’ Cup.
They convincingly beat previous winners Millfield, in Tuesday’s home clash.
Coach, Scott Sanderson added, “It was a fantastic win, earning a spot in the quarter-finals and with a performance full of heart, energy and teamwork. Roll on the next round!”
The quarter-final tie will be played after Christmas.
LWC Secures Place on Cricket Elite List
LWC features for the tenth year running in The Cricketer Schools Guide.
The 2026 publication is the 11th edition and showcases the top 100 senior schools, top 50 prep or junior schools, top 20 all-girls schools and top 25 state schools for cricket.
Those who make the exclusive list are judged on a set of criteria including curriculum commitment to the sport, facilities, coaching and outreach programmes.
Editor of The Cricketer magazine, Huw Turbervill added, “This edition recognises the fantastic cricket programmes that exist in school curricula up and down the country.”
LWC Honoured by the Forty Club
Speaking of cricket, LWC has also been recognised by the world’s largest wandering cricket club.
The Forty Club was formed in 1936, has no formal base and offers independent and state schools the opportunity to play fixtures against experienced cricketers.
Each year, the club’s annual cricket programme recognises the team in each of its 12 UK districts that has played the most outstanding fixture against them during the season.
LWC was that team in the South of England.
Last week, Upper Sixth Former, Billy (who notched up his highest ever score in the game), Coach, Mark Collins and Headmaster, Adam Williams attended the 68th Forty Club Annual Dinner at Lord’s Cricket Ground to recognise this. Mr Williams then went on to speak to the assembled cricketing crowd.
Festive Vibes in a Fortnight
Already been driven mad by Black Friday deals hitting your inbox?
Gear up to press pause and immerse yourself in the real spirit of Christmas, at LWC’s Carols and Christmas Market in just over a fortnight’s time.
Thursday, 11th December, will see an open-air carol service followed by our annual fireworks display, lighting up the 1200.
Enjoy a festive hot chocolate or mulled wine and browse our Christmas Market, featuring more than 50 local stallholders, by reserving your ticket via the LWC Box Office.
Jayne Hurman will be in attendance – selling handmade luxury chocolates made in her ‘happy place’ (aka her kitchen in Pirbright).
“My best seller is salted caramel,” she explains. “Or for those who prefer a fruity centre, triple dark raspberry is the most popular.”
Jayne started her company, The Cottage Chocolatier four years ago, after being encouraged by her family.
“I’m looking forward to coming to LWC and sharing my love of chocolate,” she reveals. “I’m also looking forward to the Christmas carols and really getting into the festive spirit.”
Mr Kimber’s Surprise
When you think of LWC staples, the Acorn Gates and the welcoming view of School House are right up there.
So too, we would argue, is Mr Kimber.
This autumn term is Senior Master, Richard Kimber’s 100th at LWC and Friday saw him make his 1000th appearance for the LWC staff football team.
This, by the way, breaks down to more than 30 years of weekly appearances AND organising the sessions.
He was given a suitably fussy reception from the staff team, when he arrived at the Astro Pitches wearing the same top that has seen him through more than three decades of Friday nights.
Afterwards, he reflected, “Having such an incredible event put on for my benefit and somehow kept secret, despite so many people ‘in the know’, reminded me what a privilege it is to work with such an amazing group of colleagues.”
LWC Christmas Book Club
The temperature drops and nothing quite beats curling up in front of the fire with a good book.
The LWC Christmas Book Club 2025 couldn’t be coming at a better time then!
Peter McNeely, Assistant Deputy Head (Scholarship and Academic Enrichment) explained, “LWC’s new-look Library and our Academic Scholars are eager to get us all reading something new and taking part in a book club involving the whole Lord Wandsworth Family of Schools’ community.”
Pupils, parents and staff are all invited to take part, with House points awarded to each person signing up.
A full list of the books involved can be found here.
Once you’ve secured a copy (ideally from one of our brilliant, local independent sellers like Alton’s Goldfinch Books or Hartley Wintney’s Blue Bear Bookshop), let us know that you’ll be attending our Book Club Night on Tuesday, 6th January from 7pm, where LWC staff will lead discussions over some light refreshments.
Parents/carers should register via this link, with staff asked to sign-up here.
The Hunt for the Ultimate LWC Burger
Pupil voice is at the heart of everything that we do at LWC.
So it’s no surprise that in the hunt to find the tastiest burger to serve on our menus, we recruited the most discerning of clientele.
Tuesday saw the LWC Catering Team asking students to taste-test three patties made from different cuts of meat, before voting for their favourite via coloured tokens.
On offer were 100% forequarter steak cuts, burgers made up of 60% chuck and 40% rib cap and dishes comprising 50% forequarter and 50% chuck.
The hands-down winner was the chuck and rib cap combination, which will appear on the menu soon.
Registration Deadline on Monday
The 1st of December signals the start of many things – advent calendar opening, Christmas decorations going up, a wild panic that the day itself is less than a month away…
It’s also LWC’s registration deadline for Year 7, Year 9 and Sixth Form places.
If you know someone who you think would be a perfect fit for a life in the 1200, share this link and encourage them to take the next steps towards a transformative education.
Young Guns Continue the Cup Runs
Following hot on the heels of some impressive national cup games for our older boys’ sides, the U14A Rugby Team put in a stunning performance last week.
They faced King Edward VI School, Southampton, in their third round School Sport Magazine National Schools U14 Cup tie.
They now play Canford School at home in the fourth round.
Captain, Reuben revealed, “It felt very good to win. I’m really excited that we’re in the next round and happy that the team got stuck in during the match. This season is going really well so far.”
U15s Take Cup Run to Regional Final
The U15A Boys’ Rugby Team put in a valiant performance against a strong Beechen Cliff side this week – bowing out of the U15 Continental Tyres Schools Cup as regional runners-up.
The U16As are next in action in their fourth round tie with Claires Court School next Wednesday at LWC, in the School Sport Magazine National Schools U16 Cup.
LWC Hosts District Cross-Country
A team of more than thirty LWC students took part in the District Cross Country Championships on Tuesday.
The event, held in the 1200, saw schools from across the area taking part.
Congratulations to all who completed the course in some bracing conditions, including 3rd Formers Jessica and Zara, who finished an impressive 3rd and 9th respectively in the Junior Girls’ event.
Meanwhile, 4th Former James finished 17th in a strong Senior Boys’ field.
Across the Atlantic
Lower Sixth Form sisters, Annabelle and Charlotte are currently in Fort Myers, Florida to compete in the USA National Hockey Festival.
They are part of a team of 18 hockey players, selected from across Europe for the Thanksgiving weekend showcase, attended by hundreds of American colleges each year.
“I am hoping to catch the attention of some D1 college coaches, who will all be in attendance at the tournament,” explained Charlotte – who is hoping to gain a scholarship to a US college in the future. “I’m most looking forward to playing hockey every day, making new friends with our team and watching the sunset on the beach!”
Annabelle (who also hopes to play hockey stateside in the longer term) concurs: “Playing teams from all over the country will be a good challenge and an opportunity to develop my skills further. I’m excited to meet other players and coaches, whilst playing every day and, hopefully, improving lots too.”
Artists Head to the Capital
They’ve been mentored by leading figurative artist, Keziah Burt since the start of this half-term.
LWC’s Upper Sixth Artists took a break from the Art School last week to head into London for some inspiration.
“We went to the Saatchi Gallery, followed by the National Gallery for a workshop on ‘Having a Conversation About a Piece of Art,” explained Teacher of Art, Graham Mobbs.
“This was on the theme of Myths, Legends and Stories.”
Endangered Animals are Focus for Environmental Scientists
Marwell Zoo was the destination for our Lower Sixth Environmental Scientists.
“We were taking a closer look at endangered or even extinct animals, along with Marwell’s conservation efforts,” revealed Teacher of Environmental Science, Joanne Mackenzie.
“A large part of our course covers biodiversity and conservation, which includes captive breeding – so this gave us some real examples to use in our work. A highlight was getting close to the tigers, red panda and tamarins.”
5th Form Throw Shapes in Silence
Our resilient 5th Form were given the chance to let their hair down in some post-mock fun last Friday.
As a reward for their dedication during over two weeks of exams, they were treated to a silent disco in Gavin Hall.
Head of 5th Form, Adam Ball added, “5th Form have demonstrated remarkable dedication and resilience throughout their demanding mock exam period, balancing intensive revision with their daily academic and co-curricular commitments. Their determination and ability to adapt under pressure over the last few weeks has showcased the strength of their work ethic as a year group.”
Non-Uniform Day Boosts Charity Pot
Last Friday’s Non-Uniform Day raised a total of £1,601.00.
The funds will be split between the LWC Charity Committee’s two chosen charities: World Child Cancer and The Helping Hand for the Ukraine.
Now, the committee is turning its attention to the Carols & Christmas Market and is welcoming donations for another Chocolate Tombola.
Proceeds from the fundraiser will go towards the two chosen charities, once again.
If you’re able to donate any large chocolate bars, tins of hot chocolate, tubs/boxes of chocolates or sweets, Christmas cakes, cupcakes, mince pies or tins of biscuits, please leave them with House Matrons.
The Charity Committee looks forward to seeing you at their stand in the Flowers Science Centre on the night!
Full House for Scholars’ Speaker
A packed Nadine Uppal Theatre provided the audience for our latest Listen, Wonder and Create speaker.
Tricia Riddell is a Professor of Applied Neuroscience with Neuroscience for Education and spoke to Academic and All-Round Scholars (along with any other interested parties) about her approach to stress and resilience, based upon years of research.
The Listen, Wonder and Create Programme is designed to enrich learning, whilst encouraging reflection and growth.
Academic Enrichment Lead, Laurie Macvean added, “One of the most memorable takeaways was the simplicity of reframing emotional responses. Tricia encouraged students, when noticing a difficult feeling, to pause and say: “That’s interesting, I feel…”. This is a small shift that turns emotion into information rather than something to avoid.”
You can read more about Tricia’s approach on our website.
Scholars Gather for Early Morning Meet
Meanwhile, LWC’s Academic Enrichment Programme offers some healthy pastoral support, alongside events such as Listen, Wonder and Create.
This week saw a group of students join staff for a Scholars’ Breakfast in Julyans.
Mr Macvean, who organised the event explained, “The Scholars’ Breakfast offers a relaxed, informal opportunity for one-to-one conversations, checking in on how the term is progressing, and celebrating achievements. It’s also a chance for pupils across different year groups to mix, share their experiences, and offer feedback on their school life.”
Headmaster’s Breakfast
The LWC Catering Team were kept busy with another special breakfast service this week.
The Headmaster’s Breakfast took place on Tuesday morning.
Those invited to breakfast with Head, Adam Williams and Deputy Head (Academic) Angela Watson are rewarded for their number of merits, good grades, engagement, attitude, kindness, and character.
The event takes place on a twice-termly basis and is also a great opportunity for pupils to share their ideas and thoughts on school life with senior leaders.
A Future Behind the Camera?
Students were given an insight into the media world this week, thanks to our latest Industry Roundtable guest speaker.
BAFTA and Emmy nominated TV and Documentary Director, Anthony Philipson spoke to interested 5th and Sixth Formers about his own career, whilst offering bespoke advice around students’ interests.
Mr Philipson’s most recent project was The Day of the Jackal, starring Eddie Redmayne. He’s also known for his work on Coppers and 8 Days: To the Moon and Back.
LWC Head of Futures, Nicola Hirst explained, “Meeting professionals and hearing success stories from within industry can boost ambition, spark new interests and encourage pupils to think more confidently about their own potential. By connecting with the world beyond school, these Roundtable events help pupils to see what’s possible, whilst motivating them to think ambitiously about future choices.”
Catering’s Christmas Creation
Just when it felt as though LWC’s Catering Team couldn’t go up another gear…
Brace yourselves for something special next week.
Pastry chef, Charlotte has been working on something extraordinary, due to land in our Main Reception on Monday.
Keep your eyes on your email inbox for details on how you can get involved and help us to raise money at the same time.
LWC Life
Did last week’s brief snowfall have you pining for the slopes?
LWC Life members can now enjoy 10% off a tailor-made holiday with Ski Solutions, the UK’s largest specialist ski travel agency.
LWC Life is a free benefits scheme for parents, staff and Sternians – offering a curated selection of deals on everything from coffee to Caribbean holidays.
Sign up now and you can also peruse our Christmas Silent Auctions category, where you can bid on a host of goodies, including Freddie’s Flowers subscriptions and month’s membership at Barnsgrove. Proceeds go to the Lord Wandsworth Foundation.
Sign up for Scuba
If your children prefer the underwater world to the ski slopes, we also have you covered.
Next Saturday, the Lord Wandsworth Dive Club is staging a Discover Scuba Diving Experience in the LWC Pool.
The PADI approved Scuba 4 Schools will be delivering structured sessions, lasting around an hour, at a cost of no more than £30 per child.
All equipment, learning and tuition is included.
You can sign up here.
Co-curricular Focus
Last week we brought you an insight into our extensive Saturday morning co-curricular offer, with a focus on our Explore Engineering Programme.
This week, LWC’s Archers take centre stage.
This 90-minute club takes place each week, under the watchful eye of CCF School Staff Instructor, Ian Rockett.
“We run through all sorts of things – not only shooting arrows, but the theory, information on equipment maintenance, competition scoring and etiquette,” he added.
Dogs of LWC
Anyone familiar with the 1200 knows that dogs are as much a part of the LWC community as anyone else.
To celebrate our four-legged residents from across the College, a Dogs of LWC calendar has been produced, with all proceeds going to the Lord Wandsworth Foundation.
Orders are being taken until Monday (1st December) here.
Sweet Stash
It’s definitely acceptable to crack open the Quality Street now we’re nearly in December, surely?
Once you’ve drained the tub (no judgement here), you can drop it off to us at LWC and we’ll add it to our collection, raising money for charity at the same time.
Last year, the College collected more than 170 empty seasonal treat tubs for Greene King’s Tub2Pub initiative.
This year, we’re hoping to beat that figure and we’d love your help to do it.
Any empties can be dropped off at Grab & Go at Julyans Dining Hall.
Stunning Sunrises
November has been quite the month for changeable weather…
But along with the snow and sideways showers, have been some spectacular sunrises.
Thanks to Jeni, Lulu and Josie for this gorgeous collection.
If you have a great shot of the 1200, we’d love to see it via stories@lordwandsworth.org.
Staff Spotlight
This week’s staff spotlight has come to rest on Teacher of Business Studies, Economics and Enterprise, Deborah Upham who joined us in September.
Mrs Upham was previously at Holme Grange School for six years, having built a wealth of experience in other sectors beforehand, including roles in export promotion, marketing for an NHS trade body and as a management consultant.
“Outside of work, I enjoy fitness, including boot camp, the gym and running,” she reveals.
“This year, I completed a Health Coach Diploma. I’m also part of a writers’ group and have plans to write a sitcom – so watch this space!”
Athletic Development Training This Christmas
Athlete Performance Lab returns to LWC during the Christmas break, with another three-day Athletic Development Training camp.
The intensive training series is open to all 12-18-year-olds and takes place in our state-of-the-art strength and conditioning space in The Barn.
The sessions run from 10am to 1pm on Wednesday 17th- Friday, 19th December at a cost of £125 for all three days.
Slots can be secured by contacting Athlete Performance Lab.
Skills For Life
Every Friday, LWC’s 1200 acres is dotted with military uniform, as the College’s CCF cadets prepare to come together later that day.
Just over four years ago, Upper Sixth Former and Head of College, Charlie was intrigued enough by the service gear to sign up for the contingent.
“I’d seen people around in their uniforms on a Friday and wondered what it was all about,” he explains. “I had no real idea what was involved, but I was willing to just throw myself into it, to see what happens.”
Fast forward from those tentative 3rd Form footsteps and he now occupies one of the most senior student roles in the contingent, as Cadet Staff Sergeant.
“CCF is definitely one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done,” Charlie continues. “I don’t think it’s like anything else that we do at the school. There are so many opportunities that it brings. If I hadn’t joined the CCF, my leadership skills wouldn’t be what they are now…or my general life skills.”
The life skills that he speaks of include everything from map-reading to cooking and shelter-building to delivering basic first aid. But he’s keen to point out that there’s also plenty of time for fun.
“Summer camps are brilliant. You get to shoot on ranges, do archery, paddleboarding, kayaking – those kinds of things. I’ve done caving before – I was petrified of that but actually enjoyed it. One of the best things I’ve done was last year’s Cadet Skill at Arms Meeting (CADSAM), where you compete against other contingents at shooting on the range. It was great fun and a real challenge – we got a medal out of it too, so it was all good fun.”
It’s no secret that there are wide-ranging benefits to cadet forces that operate within schools – both for the cadets and for the educational establishments they’re attached to. Recent research commissioned by the Ministry of Defence and carried out by the University of Northampton, concluded that not only did they help to build character and resilience, but that ‘they are instrumental in creating a sense of community and belonging.”
To read more about Charlie’s experience and the opportunities involved in the LWC CCF contingent, click here.
Key Dates
Student Christmas Lunch, Julyans
Wednesday, 10th December
LWC Carols & Christmas Market
6pm, Thursday, 11th December
End of Autumn Term
Noon, Friday, 12th December
Beginning of Spring Term
Monday, 5th January
LWC Performs The Wizard of Oz, Haymarket Theatre, Basingstoke
Wednesday, 21st to Friday, 23rd January
Non-Uniform Day
Friday, 23rd January
Exeat Weekend
4pm, Friday 23rd January
Music Scholars’ Recital, Nadine Uppal Theatre
7pm, Monday, 2nd February
Drama Scholars’ Evening, Nadine Uppal Theatre
7pm, Thursday, 12th February
Half Term Begins
4pm, Friday 13th February