Welcome to LWC News
This week has brought some sad news to the College, with the passing of much-loved Hazelveare Matron, Ceci, following her battle with cancer.
Ceci was a member of the LWC community for 41 years and was adored by many.
Next week, we’ll reflect on her remarkable contribution to the College.
For now, we continue to celebrate the place of which she was such a huge part, and offer our support and care to Ceci’s family, the Hazelveare community and all affected by this news.
News
Good Sports
The sun shone and the Houses cheered…
Last Friday’s Sports Day was a wonderful opportunity for one last whole-school event before exams get underway in earnest.
There were also records broken on the day with 3rd Former, Tolu, setting a new 3rd Form College record in the long jump at 5.20 metres.
If you were there, thank you for being part of it.
Hello from Heads of College
With LWC’s four new Heads of College in post, the first half-termly note for LWC News falls to Jack.
The HoC (Wellbeing) is in no doubt about what he’s most excited about in the role:
“I’m most looking forward to connecting with people across the college and helping to continue to foster a strong, positive community,” he explains. “As Head of Wellbeing, I hope to build on the strong support that’s already in place. I’d like to encourage a culture where people feel comfortable checking in with each other and speaking openly.
“The Summer Term feels like a good time to focus on wellbeing in a natural way,” he continues. “With longer days and the opportunity to spend more time outside talking with people.”
Jack works alongside his three fellow Heads of College: Ella (Academic), Abi (Co-curricular) and Henry (Community).
LWC Conquers Three Peaks
20 LWC parents, staff and Sternians have raised over £15,000 for the Lord Wandsworth Foundation by tackling the Yorkshire Three Peaks.
The group completed the gruelling challenge on Monday – trekking 30 miles over two days in one of the country’s most rugged landscapes, together with summiting the three highest peaks in the Yorkshire Dales.
“We had great weather,” explained LWC Philanthropy Manager, Fran Reid. “Although temperatures on the first day made walking more challenging because of the heat. We summited all three peaks successfully and everyone arrived home on Monday triumphant, if a little sore from the physical challenge.”
We’re hugely grateful to those who took part, with every penny raised helping us to widen more worlds through an LWC education. Donations can still be made to the trekkers, here.
LWC Three Become Fab Four
Four members of the LWC community crossed the finish line at last Sunday’s London Marathon, raising over £12,000 between them.
LWC parent, Lottie, smashed her target by raising over £9,000 for the Lord Wandsworth Foundation, in memory of her husband, James, who passed away from motor neurone disease in 2024.
“It was the most incredible day – everything I could have hoped for and more,” Lottie explained. “London shone, the crowds were wild and it brought out the best in humanity. Legs sore, toes battered but heart full.” She finished in 5 hours and 19 minutes.
Upper Sixth Former, William, (pictured) completed the marathon in 3 hours and 51 minutes for The Lily Foundation – a charity dedicated to fighting mitochondrial disease. He’s so far raised over £2500.
“In regards to the actual race, it was one of the hardest things I have ever done,” William revealed. “The first half of the race was fantastic and the support from the crowds was amazing. The last few miles were really challenging, but with the support of Billy and Kitty Banks (LWC parents), I was able to finish.”
“The Race Felt Like a Festival”
Fellow Upper Sixth Former, Phoebe, has so far amassed over £1600 for The National Autistic Society, finishing her first marathon in a time of 4 hours and 34 minutes. “The whole race felt like a festival,” Phoebe told us. “The atmosphere was incredible and running across London Bridge felt completely surreal. That was the moment it really hit me that I was running the London Marathon.”
And last but certainly not least, our fastest LWC finisher was Alex Thompson, Lead Chemistry Technician, completing the 26-mile course in an astonishing 2 hours and 47 minutes.
“This was my third marathon. I ran two last autumn to gain a qualifying time for London,” he explained. “I was inspired to push myself and run the best time I could, hopefully next year I can run even faster!”
LWC Tech Stars Shine
Three LWC 1st Formers have finished in the top 10% of entrants in a national coding competition.
The Raspberry Pi Foundation Coding Challenge required students to develop programmed solutions to computational thinking problems during a 45-minute exercise.
Teacher of Computer Science, Pat Risley, explained, “Nearly 49,000 young people from across the country entered the challenge at novice level. 45 LWC 1st Formers entered (some of whom had only begun to learn programming last November).
“71% of our students finished in the top 50%, with nine in the top 25% and three (Bob, Alara and Hamish – pictured) in the top 10% in the country!”
Lost in Literature
The author Haruki Marakami once said, “If you only read the books that everyone else is reading, you can only think what everyone else is thinking.”
LWC’s second Book Club event on Tuesday evening encouraged the Lord Wandsworth Family of Schools’ community to come together and read something new.
Those taking part were invited by the LWC Library and our Academic Scholars to read one of seven books, before joining in with discussions about the works, which were led by members of staff.
Go Girls!
LWC’s U15A Girls’ Football Team are in action in the ISFA U15 Girls’ Shield this afternoon.
They face Queenswood College in Letchworth Garden City.
In last week’s LWC News, we heard from Co-captain, Hollie, ahead of the game; now it’s the turn of her fellow leader, Amber.
“It feels really exciting to be in the final,” admits the 4th Former. “We’ve seen with previous netball and rugby finals, how LWC turns out to support its teams.
“When I first started playing for the U15s, I couldn’t have imagined reaching a final, so it’s great to see how far we’ve come in such a short space of time.
“We’re a very determined group and don’t give up easily. I think the coaches have contributed an enormous amount to our success this season. From the beginning, they believed in us and pushed us to the position we find ourselves in now: LWC’s first ISFA Shield Finalists and ISFA Cup Semi-Finalists.”
We’ll keep you updated on the result via the LWC Instagram and Facebook accounts and in next week’s LWC News.
Get Set for Stern Challenge
There’s still time to support LWC’s biggest Stern Challenge yet!
On Sunday, more than 60 students, LWC parents, Sternians and staff will set out to cover 100km in a single day – running from the 1200 to Hayling Island, following the Shipwrights Way.
“Knowing you are part of a team, trying to achieve something incredible together is really special,” explains organiser and Bramley Houseparent, Pete Maidment. “It’s not competitive and there’s no interhouse rivalry. The cheers and celebration at each handover point is just so exciting and of course, this year, there’s also the prospect of fish and chips on the beach at the end – what’s not to love?”
Good luck, LWC.
Wellbeing Boost
This past week has seen GCSE, A-level and BTEC assessments begin in French, Photography, English Literature and Sport.
Each week, we’ll take a closer look at how you can support your child through this time by drawing on the many years of pastoral experience we have at the College.
Some suggestions for a wellbeing boost may be more conventional than others.
Head of 3rd Form, Eloise Shrimpton, advocates having regular movement breaks during revision – although her own take on this should be viewed with caution.
“I have fond memories of my university library,” she admits. “When I needed to complete 3,500-word essays, I would need to get up and move every 45 minutes.
“My brain and body need these movement breaks and whilst others would opt for a walk around campus, I tended to do a handstand. I’ve got pretty good as the years have gone by and still to this day (when my brain is finding something difficult or I need a change of pace), I do a handstand.”
Perfecting a Play in a Week
LWC’s 2nd Form have been mastering the art of Platform Theatre this week.
Box House Theatre has returned to the 1200 to lead the Play in a Week programme.
Students were asked to devise and develop a performance, without the aid of props, sets, costumes or sound to tell their stories.
The final show took place last night (pictures from which will feature in next week’s LWC News).
“This work has developed physical and communication skills and taught 2nd Form how to work well together in groups,” explained Head of Performing Arts, Gemma Reeks.
Sparring Speech
This years Interhouse Debating has been won by Gosden.
The all-female final yesterday saw Gosden go head-to-head with Haygate for the title, being required to deliberate the proposition that ‘Near is Better than Far’.
This year’s final carried an added twist: “We removed thinking and AI time by only releasing the topic moments before the debate,” explained Interhouse Debate lead and Head of English, Chris Radmann.
“This competition always offers a complex mix of careful research, thinking on your feet and verbal dexterity.”
Summer Sounds
LWC’s varied music programme will be showcased at next Friday’s Summer Term Music Concert.
The LWC Concert Band and Choir will perform alongside our ensembles and soloists as part of a blissful evening to celebrate music-making.
Free tickets are available via the LWC Box Office for the event, which starts at 7pm in Gavin Hall.
Parent Power
How drug aware are you?
In the next session of our Parental Engagement Programme, former drug squad officer, Dave Parvin, is setting out to educate.
This Thursday (7th May), Mr Parvin will lead a seminar in Gavin Hall from 7pm, which aims to lift the lid on spotting the signs of drug use, together with offering an insight into other issues such as vaping and drink spiking.
Knowledge, as they say, is power and you can sign up for the session here. The deadline for registration is this Tuesday, 5th May.
Reaching Top Gear
The very first LWCMS Drive took place last Sunday.
The event, organised by the LWC Motoring Society involved more than 50 LWC parents and Sternians and around 35 cars.
They set off from the sunny 1200, bound for West Meon – where they were welcomed at The Hut with fresh coffee and bacon rolls.
The LWCMS holds an average of three events per year, the next one being on Sternian Saturday on Saturday, 20th June.
The society is open to the entire LWC community and is free to join by completing this form.
Telling Stories
This week’s Industry Roundtable saw Sternian, Angus MacSwan, giving students an insight into a career in journalism.
Mr MacSwan spent more than 40 years as a journalist before retiring, working for Reuters and travelling the world to tell the stories of some of the biggest events in modern times.
His most memorable moment was Nelson Mandela’s victory in 1994, when he became South Africa’s first black president.
Interested 5th and Sixth Form students are invited to Industry Roundtables in order to be inspired by real-world experiences across a range of sectors.
They allow our young people to get a sense of the multitude of possibilities beyond the Acorn Gates.
Food for Thought
LWC’s female Sports Scholars were invited to learn more about fuelling their bodies for fitness this week.
LWC parent and Nutritional Therapist, Kathryn Watson, delivered a talk on Monday to students.
“I really enjoyed working with the girls,” admitted Kathryn. “We brought to life what balanced eating really looks like in a practical session and discussed how eating enough, at the right time, supports energy, performance and recovery both in sport and in the classroom.”
The talk formed part of our ongoing holistic approach to supporting athletes at LWC.
LWC Life: Summer Style
Contemplating a wardrobe refresh in time for the summer?
Before you do, check out the offers currently available via our LWC Life Benefits Portal.
Right now, you can claim 15% off sitewide at Lilou Collection.
This curated clothing selection is sourced from Paris brands every season.
You’ll find a host of offers for the LWC community across fashion, home and garden, food and drink, plus many more by signing up to LWC Life now.
Good Character
Nominations are open for this year’s LWC Character Awards.
The awards were introduced to celebrate the behaviour that makes the LWC community so special.
All students and staff have until 5pm on Wednesday, 13th May to nominate a student who they believe has shown good character all year, based upon the community beliefs of CARE (Courage, Awareness, Respect and Encouragement).
Nominations can be made using this form, with winners celebrated at Speech Day on Saturday, 27th June.
Staging a Celebration
The cast and crew of this year’s musical came together to celebrate last week.
Those who took part in The Wizard of Oz at The Haymarket in Basingstoke enjoyed watching the filmed dress rehearsal for January’s performance, followed by a buffet.
“It’s really important to highlight the achievements of cast and crew, as the musical is a big part of school life every year,” explained Director, Gemma Reeks. “ The big reveal for next year’s production will be coming in July.”
Strengthening Networks
It’s a chance to meet with other professionals in your sector, whilst sharing your experience with LWC’s Sixth Form.
The next LWC Connect Networking Breakfast is taking place next Thursday (7th May) between 7.45 and 9am in Zanetas.
This time, Finance, Business Management and Entrepreneurship are the focus.
“We find these experiences are incredibly rewarding for all parties,” revealed Clare Faherty, LWC’s Alumni Relations Manager.
LWC Connect is open to all staff, parents and Sternians. If you’re not yet a member, you can join here.
More details about Thursday’s event, including how to sign up can be reached via the LWC Connect website.
Academic Highlight – Environmental Science
This week’s academic highlight comes courtesy of our Lower Sixth Environmental Scientists.
“We made the most of the wonderful weather on Monday and carried out a practical investigating how distance and plant cover affects noise pollution,” explained Head of Environmental Science, Esther Haydock.
“The students planned the fieldwork and then put their skills into practice in the great outdoors.”
Girls’ Houses go Zorbing
Park, Haygate and Gosden’s Friday night social involved some some rolling around last week.
All three Houses came together for zorbing – an annual occasion at LWC.
The sport was invented in the 1990s in Rotorua in New Zealand, where there remains some of the world’s most sophisticated zorbing tracks.
The activity involves climbing into a large, transparent ball that is then moved around on either land or water.
90 girls signed up for the event, with no boarders being harmed in the inflatable fun.
Blue Zones
More than half of the world’s bluebell population can be found in the UK.
Taking a stroll along LWC’s Beckwith route right now will take you to the 1200’s stunning display.
Bluebells are often found in ancient and undisturbed woodland where they’re given the space to grow to their full potential.
Sounds familiar.
If you have a stunning shot of the 1200, we’d love to see it via stories@lordwandsworth.org.
This Summer at LWC…
Cricket and hockey are the focus for camps run by Activate at LWC this summer.
A Performance Cricket Residential for 10-17-year-olds takes place between the 5th and 10th of August.
This will be followed by two Cricket Academies for 5-7-year-olds and 8-14-year-olds on selected dates between 11th and 13th August and 25th-27th August. Single sessions or block bookings are available.
Alternatively, from the 18th-20th August, JDH Next Level Hockey will be running sessions for 6 and 7-year-olds and those aged 8 to 14 years.
All bookings for the above camps can be made through the Activate Camps website.
Coming up from Underwater
LWC 1st Former Nesta loves her sport.
You’ll find her turning out for LWC’s U13B Girls’ Hockey Team and getting amongst the U13C netballers with a broad grin on her face.
Her enjoyment of team sport boosted by the fact that she can now hear her teammates’ calls.
Next week is Deaf Awareness Week and Nesta has been sharing her experience of living with hearing loss.
Nesta was diagnosed with a rare lung disorder before she was even born and required surgery immediately after birth.
It’s believed that it was the treatment for this condition which led to Nesta beginning to lose her hearing from a young age.
“We don’t have a history of deafness in the family and so consider that medication was the most likely cause of her losing hearing,” explains mum, Jo.
Nesta wore hearing aids until she started school, with her parents then deciding to have her fitted with cochlear implants.
“Putting Nesta forward for cochlear implants was a tough decision because there was a risk that she might lose her residual natural hearing,” explains Jo. “But following a six-hour operation at the age of five, we were delighted that she’d retained some of her hearing. This definitely helped her to learn to hear with her implants.”
Nesta can vividly remember how it felt when her implants were first switched on:
“It felt like I was coming back up after being underwater for a long time.”
Cochlear implants are not without complexity. Unlike hearing aids, which amplify sounds so they can be heard by damaged ears, cochlear implants bypass these parts of the ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve. This, in turn, sends signals generated by the implant to the brain. Those fitted with implants have to learn how to hear with them.
Sadly, any residual hearing that Nesta had was lost within the first year of being fitted with the implants and to make matters worse, a design fault with one of them led to it beginning to malfunction.
“Nesta’s ability to hear at all deteriorated and she became exhausted on a daily basis,” Jo admits.
In 2023, Nesta went through a second six-hour operation to have new implants fitted. This time, it was successful and the 12-year-old now finds herself settled into the 1200 and able to enjoy the sounds around her.
“The implants have changed my life a lot,” she smiles. “I can now hear people, even when they’re quite far away and they’ve really helped to boost my confidence.”
Read more of Nesta’s story on our website.
Key Dates
Stern Challenge
Sunday, 3rd May
May Day Bank Holiday
Monday, 4th May
LWC Connect Networking Breakfast: Finance, Business Management and Entrepreneurship, Zanetas
7.45-9am, Thursday, 7th May
Intersections: The Art of Science and The Science of Art Exhibition, The Prideaux Gallery
Friday, 8th May – Thursday, 2nd July
Summer Term Music Concert, Gavin Hall
7pm, Friday, 8th May
Intersections: Private View & Prize-Giving, The Prideaux Gallery
7.30pm, Friday, 8th May
Choreography Evening, Nadine Uppal Theatre
7pm, Thursday, 14th May
May Half Term Begins
4pm, Friday, 22nd May
Summer Term Resumes
Monday, 1st June
Bramley House Concert, Nadine Uppal Theatre
7pm, Friday, 12th June
Private Peaceful, Gavin Hall
7pm, Wednesday, 24th & Thursday, 25th June
Speech Day
10am, Saturday, 27th June
End of Summer Term
Noon, Wednesday, 1st July
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