Welcome to LWC News
This week saw a momentous moment.
We’ve reached the point in the year when the sun won’t set before 5pm again until late October.
As it set, hazily, over Wilkinsons after Wednesday’s dramatic U14s rugby game, it provided a timely reminder of what we still have to look forward to at LWC this year.
You’ll find more than a glimpse detailed below.
Enjoy the weekend, despite the forecast showers. Those bright spring days are coming.
All contributions to LWC News are welcome via stories@lordwandsworth.org.
News
Upper Sixth Celebrate Offer Success
LWC’s record-breaking Sixth Form is in receipt of three Oxbridge offers and two to study Veterinary Science and Medicine.
Oxana has secured an offer to read Chemistry at Merton College, Oxford, Lula has an offer for the Modern & Medieval Languages course at King’s College, Cambridge and Charles has received an offer from Homerton College, Cambridge for Land Economy.
LWC’s Oxbridge Co-ordinator, Paul Donald added, “At a time when LWC is seeing unprecedented numbers applying and being interviewed by Oxford and Cambridge, I am delighted that we have had another strong year of success. Students commit a huge amount of their time and energy to preparing an application and readying for rigorous interviews.”
The LWC Oxbridge Cycle is already underway for our Lower Sixth students. Watch this space for January 2027!
Perfect Tonic for Vets & Medics
Meanwhile, Phoebe has received an offer to study Medicine at Lincoln University and Millie has achieved offers from Liverpool and Surrey to study Veterinary Science.
Both subjects are among the most competitive at UK universities.
LWC’s Assistant Deputy Head (Teaching & Learning), Joanne Mackenzie leads the College’s Vets & Medics Programme: “These successes reflect a huge amount of work that began well before the application stage,” she revealed. “From hours of preparation for the medicine UCAT exam, to organising a wide range of veterinary placements over many weeks. The dedication and hard work from these students has truly paid off, and we wish them every success in their exciting journeys ahead.”
University offers continue to come in. So far, across LWC’s 100-strong Upper Sixth, the most offers have been received from Exeter University, followed by Durham, Bristol, Cardiff and Bath.
There has also been a number from UCL, King’s and Imperial.
From next week, we’ll begin a weekly focus on Upper Sixth students hoping to embark upon a wide variety of journeys beyond the Acorn Gates.
U14s Give Everything in Quarter-Finals
LWC’s U14A Boys’ Rugby Team can hold their heads high after an extraordinary performance in the quarter-finals of the School Sport Magazine National Schools Under 14 Cup on Wednesday.
They faced a strong side from the Cardiff-based Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Glantaf and staged a magnificent comeback, only to fall behind in the final stages.
Coaches Eloise Shrimpton and Marcus Ruffell added, “We are so proud of the boys. They’ve played with passion and a true sense of teamwork throughout this competition. We know they’ll continue to do extraordinary things in the future and we can’t wait for their exciting style of rugby to develop and grow. This is only the beginning.”
U14 Girls Dig Deep
The U14A Girls Netball Team narrowly lost to Beaconsfield High School in the regional semi-finals of the Sisters n Sport U14 Netball Trophy on Monday.
“The result is a tough one to take,” admitted coach and LWC Head of Netball, Poppy Lake. “But I am so proud of the girls. They showed real maturity and resilience on court and have done incredibly well in such a short space of time together.
“I’m genuinely excited about where this group can go next year and beyond at LWC. For now, it is time to enjoy the rest of the season with the league games and the friendlies we have scheduled. Keep your heads high – you’ve earned it!”
English Language Results Rise
After the news that our hard-working 5th Form had achieved early iGCSE English Language results that put LWC in the top ten per cent of all schools for value-added…
Recent re-marks have seen the College progress to the top one per cent in the country.
LWC has now achieved Alps 1 status for GCSE English Language – meaning that we are in the top percentage of schools and colleges nationally, when it comes to progress made in the subject.
Cross-Country Courage
3rd Former Lottie represented Hampshire in last weekend’s South East Schools Inter-County Cross-Country Championships in Chelmsford.
She came fifth for Hampshire and 32nd overall in the Junior Girls category, which featured 78 athletes in total.
Lottie has now claimed her place at the English Schools’ Cross-Country Championships this March in Liverpool.
Cadets Rightly Rewarded
55 CCF cadets from LWC’s shared contingent took part in a Passing Out Parade last week.
“The cadets are deemed to have met the standard required to progress further with their training,” explained CCF School Staff Instructor, Ian Rockett.
“They have chosen to join the Army or RAF section and were presented with the relevant headdress.
“The cadets should feel very proud of what they’ve achieved in the first few months of their cadet experience. They can now look forward to taking part in the more advanced aspects of cadet training.”
LWC’s CCF contingent comprises students from the College, alongside cadets from Costello School in Basingstoke.
LWC Backs Manny in World Cup Final
England’s U19 Cricket Team are in action today in the finals of the U19 World Cup in Zimbabwe.
Did you know that among those lining up for England today is the tournament’s joint leading wicket-taker, who honed his craft in the 1200?
Manny Lumsden has grown up at LWC under the watchful eye of his father, Teacher of Physics, Audley Lumsden.
In an interview with The Times published this week, Manny credits the facilities as helping with his development.
“I’m lucky enough to have grown up on a school, so I spent a lot of time on the grounds playing cricket with my dad or whoever wanted to play,” he revealed.
You can read the full article here. LWC is rooting for you, Manny.
Photo credit: ICC/Getty
Musical Winter Wonder
It provided an opportunity for our talented musicians to showcase their skills.
Last Friday’s Winter Music Concert featured a diverse programme, stretching from classical to contemporary.
LWC’s Concert Band performed alongside soloists and ensembles in an event which provided the perfect antidote to the January drizzle.
Music Scholars in the Spotlight
Hot on the heels of that event came Monday’s Music Scholars’ Recital.
This allowed our scholars to perform an exciting range of solo works in the Nadine Uppal Theatre.
Next up is the Drama Scholars’ Evening next Thursday (12th February) from 7pm. Tickets are available via the LWC Box Office.
5th Form Brush up on Interview Skills
Sutton Hall saw nearly 130 members of 5th Form being put through their paces last weekend as part of LWC’s Mock Interview Morning.
45 Sternian, LWC parents and Sternian parents had one-to-one chats with students as part of an activity designed to practise formal futures skills and develop confidence.
Head of Futures, Nicola Hirst added, “This is a great stepping stone as students start to think about progression, future opportunities and eventually A-level choices.
“This was a hugely popular event and students always say it helps them feel more prepared and confident.”
Community Care
“The area surrounding Alton has seen a huge surge in demand for foodbank services in the last few years,” explains LWC Head of College, William.
“I thought this was the least we could do to help.”
William has been talking to LWC News ahead of next Friday’s Non-Uniform Day which has been organised by prefects to support Alton Foodbank.
Students can wear home clothes on the last day of half-term, in exchange for a food donation to the organisation, to be collected in Houses.
“One of the values instilled in me at LWC is opportunism,” William continued. “Put simply, that’s embracing fresh opportunities like this. I hope the next group of prefects will continue to widen our relationship with the foodbank.”
You can find a full list of the foods most in need at Alton Foodbank here.
LWC are Finalists in Home Tournament
Last Saturday’s LWC U15 Girls’ Football Tournament was a huge success, with the home team finishing finalists in the cup competition.
More than 150 girls took part from 17 teams in total.
LWC 1 narrowly missed out on winning the cup final, losing on penalties to Bradfield College.
Meanwhile, LWC 2 finished fourth in the plate competition.
“It was a really good day of football with very high standards across the afternoon,” explained LWC’s Head of Football, Georgia Bowers. “The girls loved it!”
For the Love of Hockey
For the College’s younger male hockey players, last Saturday also provided an opportunity to play the sport they love in a fun environment.
The Bramley Boys’ Hockey Festival involved around 250 players from just under 25 teams.
It was organised by LWC’s Director of Sport, Soma Singh.
“It’s a festival as opposed to a tournament and as a result, everyone gets into the festival spirit,” Mr Singh added.
“There were lots of smiles, providing a great atmosphere for sport. We had some lovely feedback about how much the boys enjoyed it and are keen to attend next year.”
A Leap into Latin
The Guildford area GCSE Latin Conference on Monday, hosted at LWC, brought two high-profile speakers from the University of Oxford to the 1200.
Professor Llewelyn Morgan and Dr Ed Bispham, two of the world’s leading experts on Latin literature, joined us from Brasenose College to deliver insights into GCSE students’ set texts, before taking part in a Q&A session.
LWC’s Head of Classics, Alex Hamilton added, “Our speakers shared their thoughts on various aspects of the texts and gave students a new angle from which to view each of them. This is the first time we’ve hosted this conference at LWC and it was a privilege to have such ‘A-List’ celebrity speakers for the occasion.”
Experience the Struggle
They’ve worked with the United Nations in trying to bring the experience of poverty to some of the most influential people on the planet…
Now, Hong Kong-based the Crossroads Foundation is bringing its experiential simulation to LWC.
Next Friday (13th February) between 1.30 and 4pm, the foundation will be delivering one of its flagship programmes The Struggle For Survival to the LWC community, in the latest of our Parental Engagement Programme sessions.
You are welcome to join us for a unique insight into the challenges faced by those living in extreme need, in a session described as life-changing.
You can sign up here. There’ll be much more on this in next week’s LWC News.
All Set for Interhouse Dance
One of the most popular interhouse events gets underway in Sutton Hall tonight.
Interhouse Dance will see Houses competing against each other, having been asked to prepare a routine of three to five minutes in length.
“The preparations can really unite each group,” explained LWC’s Head of Dance, Molly Moffitt-McGrath. “Dance is joyful! It offers physical fitness and a fun creative outlet involving music and movement.”
Head, Adam Williams and Olivia Conroy from the Performing Arts Department at Farleigh School will be judging.
Last year, Gosden secured first place for their moves, followed by Summerfield and Haygate. Who will take the honours this time? We’ll keep you posted.
Best Meal of the Day
Ten students joined Head, Adam Williams for a Rewards Breakfast this week.
The twice-termly invitations are given out to recognise number of merits, good grades, engagement, attitude, kindness, and character.
It also provides a great opportunity for students to connect with senior leaders at the College, to discuss a range of topics.
Taking a Trip to Hawkins
Stranger Things: The First Shadow has won a host of accolades, from the much-coveted Olivier Award for Best Entertainment to the Critics’ Circle Award for Best Set Design.
Last week, 4th and 5th Form GCSE Drama students got to see it for themselves at the West End’s Phoenix Theatre, for an opportunity to review live theatre as part of their course.
“Stranger Things: The First Shadow was chosen because it’s a fantastic production which explores technology in such an exciting way,” explained LWC’s Head of Performing Arts, Gemma Reeks. “At times, the performance feels almost cinematic. GCSE Drama students are required to evaluate and write about what they have seen in their exam. Stranger Things is the perfect choice.”
Stimulating Science
GCSE Science Live! offers the opportunity to hear five of Britain’s top scientists speaking about the subject they love.
Last week, LWC’s 4th Form scientists took a trip to Oxford’s New Theatre to see it for themselves.
The speakers are chosen for their ability to communicate engagingly with students. Top tips are also offered on how to achieve exam success, by experienced science examiners.
“The students were excellent ambassadors for the school,” concluded Esther Haydock, Teacher of Physics, Astronomy and Environmental Science.
Lessons in London
LWC’s Upper Sixth fine artists took to the streets of the capital this week to launch their research into this year’s exam theme of Origins.
Teacher of Art, Graham Mobbs revealed, “The trip included a visit to the Tate Modern, where students explored Picasso: The Theatre alongside the Indonesian Modernist exhibition, gaining rich first-hand exposure to a range of artistic practices.
“They also engaged with the gallery’s permanent collection, further broadening their understanding of contemporary art. These experiences offer valuable insights and support students in developing their critical skills, visual language and establishing their personal voice.”
Stand by for Private Peaceful
Somewhere over the Rainbow may still be reverberating around the LWC Performing Arts Department…
Now auditions are underway for the next production.
The summer play this year is Private Peaceful by Michael Morpurgo and adapted for the stage by Simon Reade.
“This play will bring the light and the shade of wartime Britain during the First World War,” explained Director and Teacher of Drama, Matt McGrath. “Family is at the heart of this play’s message, alongside some very sobering historical realities.
“In contrast to the comedy of last year’s One Man, Two Guvnors, this play introduces some tragedy. Following on from the success of The Wizard of Oz, we can’t wait to see our students taking to the stage again.”
Performances of Private Peaceful will take place in June.
Fundraising for the Foundation
Two years ago, we raised more than £14,000 through the Lord Wandsworth Foundation Day Appeal Online Auction.
This year, we’re hoping to smash that target but could do with your help!
We’re on the lookout for auction items ranging in size and value and have already received kind offers from across the LWC community, including golf lessons, private jet trips and signed Mike Tyson boxing gloves!
If you or your business think you can donate an item for the auction, which gets underway on Sunday, 22nd March, please let us know via this link or email our Philanthropy Manager, Fran Reid.
Taking a Breather
Yoga is known to boost strength and flexibility together with reducing stress and anxiety.
Every Monday and Wednesday evening, LWC parents and staff are invited to take part in yoga classes in our Dance Studio.
The sessions (open to all levels of ability) are tailored to meet the needs of the class, offering a mixture of Vinyasa and restorative flow.
Classes take place on Mondays (8-9pm) and Wednesdays (7.30-8.30pm).
The price is £15 per class for drop-ins, £49 for a block of four classes and £55 for six, beginning at the start of each half-term.
Email Gemma Reeks for more information.
LWC Life
It’s Valentines Day next Saturday (not that you needed reminding, of course).
Right now, LWC Life members can get 15% off with Freddie’s Flowers by visiting the benefits portal and collecting the link required.
Prices start from £27.50 and standard delivery is free.
If you’ve yet to sign up to the free LWC Life benefits scheme, you can do so here and take advantage of our specially curated selection of offers for LWC parents, staff and Sternians.
There’s currently also an opportunity to win a seven-night stay in coastal luxury with Habitat Escapes and who wouldn’t love that?
Final Call
Can we beat last year’s Tub2Pub collection total?
Leftover sweets and chocolate containers are still trickling in from Christmas, as part of our collection for Greene King’s Tub2Pub initiative.
The cut-off to submit yours to the collection point in our Grab & Go section of Julyans Dining Hall is next Friday (13th February).
The Tub2Pub scheme raises money for Macmillan Cancer Support by recycling the plastic tubs provided.
A Snapshot of Sunshine
The last few weeks have been blanketed in rain clouds and sharp showers.
Which is why Wednesday’s sunshine provided a much-needed reminder that spring IS on the horizon.
Watching majestically over the glistening puddles was School House – observing the slow change in seasons for the last 97 years.
If you have a photo of the 1200 that you would be happy to share, we’d love to see it via stories@lordwandsworth.org.
During Half-Term at LWC…
Athlete Performance Lab returns to The Barn this February half-term with another three-day training series.
The sessions are designed for 12 to 18-year-olds who are keen to improve strength, power, endurance and mobility, whilst learning more about the science behind it all.
The sessions run between 10am and 1pm on Monday 16th, Tuesday 17th and Wednesday 18th February at a cost of £125 for all three days, £90 for two days or £50 for one.
Bookings can be made directly via email or the website.
Rugby Camp
Alternatively, the next Long Sutton Sports Co Rugby Camp takes place at LWC on Monday 16th & Tuesday 17th February.
Open to anyone between the ages of 11 and 14, the camp is fun, inclusive and suitable for all abilities.
The half-term sessions will feature a timely focus on rugby 7s – with an emphasis on developing speed, evasion, decision making and an understanding of the game.
The cost is £60 for the two-day camp, which will run between 10am and 3pm.
Bookings and enquiries can be made by contacting Long Sutton Sports Co directly via email.
Stop the Scrolling
Imagine losing more than a quarter of your life to time spent scrolling on your phone.
In fact, you may not need to imagine…
In tomorrow’s Parental Engagement Programme session at LWC, author, columnist and futurist Chloe Combi is likely to reveal that for some of our young people, this could be the reality.
“The average age that a child gets a phone in the UK is now 11,” Chloe explains. “So they get it just as they’re moving into secondary school in some cases. If that child is affluent and healthy, they’ll live until they’re in their mid-80s. If they then maintain the average screen time for their age throughout their lives, by the time they reach the end of their life, they’ll have been on that phone for 23 years.”
At tomorrow’s event, Gen A and Gen Z expert Chloe will provide an insight into our Teenagers’ Online World, but is keen to point out that she’ll be offering some solutions to the social media panic around it.
“Rather than telling young people what they’ve heard a million times about endless scrolling being bad for them, if you explain how it works, what it’s taking from them and what it’s doing to them, you’re more likely to get somewhere,” she continues.
Not only that, but Chloe believes that with the appropriate level of education, the next ten years from now could look very different. Rather than following Australia’s lead in banning social media, she believes the younger generations can remain tech savvy, but also discerning about how they spend their time.
“No 14-year-old now thinks that smoking is cool,” Chloe states. “That’s a function of education and getting kids to make those decisions themselves through knowledge and good messaging. Punishment and bans give things an outlaw image, which then ironically makes them more attractive. What’s much better is good education in a clear-headed, non-judgmental way. Do they really want to lose a quarter of their lives to scrolling on a box? There are kids in the seven-to-twelve age bracket who are already starting to say that they don’t want a smartphone.”
Naturally, this requires more investment in young people’s real-world experience – something advocated by LWC’s Deputy Head (Pastoral), Alexandra Cocksworth in The Guardian recently.
“In this country, shared spaces and social opportunities for young people have been decimated,” continues Chloe. “Youth clubs and discos have gone. Gigs, theatre, swimming and bowling are all incredibly expensive. For a lot of young people, their phones and laptops are the only freedom they have.”
Read more about Chloe’s insight into the online world, it’s impact on our young people and crucially, what we can do to support them here.
Key Dates
Parental Engagement Programme Seminar: Chloe Combi, Gavin Hall
9.30-11am, Saturday, 7th February
Safer Internet Day
Tuesday, 10th February
Drama Scholars’ Evening, Nadine Uppal Theatre
7pm, Thursday, 12th February
Non-Uniform Day in Aid of Alton Foodbank
Friday, 13th February
Parental Engagement Workshop – Crossroads Foundation: Struggle for Survival, Gavin Hall
1.30pm, Friday, 13th February
Half Term Begins
4pm, Friday, 13th February
Spring Term Resumes
Monday, 23rd February
An Evening of Song, Nadine Uppal Theatre
7pm, Friday, 27th February
Cotterill Cup Music Festival Begins
Monday, 9th March
Cotterill Cup Prizewinners’ Concert, Nadine Uppal Theatre
7-9.3pm, Tuesday, 10th March
Futures Fair, Sutton Hall
Friday, 13th March
Cotterill Cup: Open Section Recital, Nadine Uppal Theatre
7pm, Monday, 16th March
Dance Show, Nadine Uppal Theatre
7pm, Wednesday, 18th & Thursday, 19th March
LWC Spring Open Morning
9am, Saturday, 21st March
Foundation Day Appeal Online Auction
Sunday, 22nd March – Sunday, 29th March
Foundation Day
Thursday, 26th March
End of Spring Term
Noon, Friday 27th March
Useful Links
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