Welcome to LWC News
Life at LWC in Summer Term is a varied mix.
As study leave gets underway for those taking exams, so begin a series of trips for those year groups off to complement their learning outside of the classroom.
The 1200’s outdoor space is also buzzing with the hum of sport and socialising, as the sun edges into every corner during breaks and after school.
One more week to go before the half-term break and it’s looking good…
News
Upper Sixth Head into Exams
Last Friday saw our phenomenal Upper Sixth bow out for study leave in style.
They gathered in Zanetas to receive their yearbooks, spend time with each other and congregate for one last group photo (before A-level Results Day).
Assistant Head of Sixth Form, Laura Osborne added, “It was a fitting send-off for our wonderful Upper Sixth. It’s been a pleasure to watch these fantastic young men and women flourish during their final years at LWC. We look forward to celebrating their successes and hearing about all of their future endeavours!”
Fantastic Physics!
The questions are regarded as tough, unfamiliar and ‘occasionally make students question their life choices’ according to Teacher of Physics, Esther Haydock…
But eight students from LWC have scooped some of the top certificates in the British Physics Olympiad Senior Challenge.
The BPhO encourages the study of physics, whilst recognising excellence in young physicists through a number of annual competitions.
Lower Sixth Formers Henry, Daniel and Pippa have been awarded silver prizes, whilst Lukas, Jonathan, Harry, Jack and Ben collected bronze.
5th Form Sign Off for Study Leave
5th Form were busy signing shirts last Friday during their final day of formal lessons.
The year group finished, bound for study leave, with a little gift from the 5th Form Team to set them on their way towards the rest of their GCSEs and Sixth Form adventures.
Good luck to all of those currently sitting exams.
Record Breaking Running
This week has seen some College records being broken on the track.
4th Former, Will set a personal best as he took gold in the 100m hurdles at the Hampshire Athletics Track & Field Championships last weekend.
He recorded an astonishing time of 14:25 seconds.
Meanwhile, 2nd Former, Flo took the 2nd Form College record in the 800m as she collected bronze at the same event.
She completed the race in 2:28 minutes.
Summer Term Concert Raises the Roof
LWC’s array of extraordinary musicians were in the spotlight for last week’s Summer Term Music Concert.
From the College Concert Band to our enigmatic ensembles, sensational soloists and charismatic choir… There was no end to the talent (or alliteration, it seems).
Next in our music performance programme is our Informal Lunchtime Concert next Friday (22nd May) from 1.15pm and our Bramley House Concert on Friday, 12th June from 7pm.
Both events will take place in the Nadine Uppal Theatre. More details can be found at the LWC Box Office.
Making a Difference
Completing coursework and raising money for charity at the same time is some feat.
Our Upper Sixth Form Enterprise & Entrepreneurship students have ticked both boxes in finishing their final unit of study though.
“They were tasked with researching, planning, running and reviewing a social enterprise activity,” explained BTEC E&E Lead, Deborah Upham.
“Of the six groups involved, five chose to donate their profits to the Lord Wandsworth Foundation and one to the MND charity, My Name’5 Doddie. They raised nearly £2000 between them, selling products which included LWC socks, scarves and golf balls, alongside candles and sweets.
“They learned a lot about communication, finance, lead times and the best ways to promote their products. Some of the students have definitely been inspired for the future.”
Mind over Matter
There’s been strong support across the College for Mental Health Awareness Week this week.
Students were encouraged to get to know Head of College (Wellbeing), Jack and the rest of the Wellbeing Team with cake in Julyans on Monday.
Next Thursday, students will be given the opportunity to meet the team again with Ice Lollies on the Lawn.
Head of Student Wellbeing, Kirsty Jackman, added, “The Wellbeing Team has also introduced the College the idea of ACTION: (Ask for help, Connect with others, Take a break, Include everyone, Own your story and Notice your feelings.)”
More than Medical
We’ve been celebrating our exceptional Nursing Team this week as part of International Nurses Day.
The day is an opportunity to mark the contribution that nurses make to society and our entire Health Centre Team (pictured) is a crucial part of life in the 1200.
“Their expertise, care and good humour keep the wheels of our community turning, come rain or shine,” reflects Deputy Head (Pastoral), Ali Cocksworth.
“A trip to the Health Centre showcases the care and relational approach at the heart of LWC life.”
Navigating to The Needles
They were tasked with finding their way across the Isle of Wight…
The groups aiming to achieve their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award are back in the 1200 after their qualifying expedition last weekend.
“The teams began on the north coast and then walked across the island before camping close to Brighstone on day one,” explained DofE Lead and Head of Outdoor Learning, Richard Lovell.
“Day two had them following the coast out to The Needles and then along to Yarmouth.
“We received very positive feedback on their behaviour and it was a pleasure to see the teams being independent and enjoying the challenge of the expedition.”
A Peek Around Bletchley Park
Bletchley Park near Milton Keynes is considered to have dramatically altered the course of World War II through its codebreaking.
On Tuesday, 3rd Form computer scientists were given an insight into the extraordinary work that went on there.
“Students took part in interactive workshops and guided activities before exploring the historic grounds of Bletchley Park and learning about the work of Alan Turing and the codebreakers,” explained Head of Digital Studies, Melisia Swaby.
“They are currently studying topics linked to cybersecurity and the protection of information, and Bletchley Park provides an excellent real-world historical context for this learning.”
Curiosity at Kew
More than 50 Bramley scientists took a trip to Kew Gardens this week.
The UNESCO World Heritage site houses more than 50,000 plants in its botanical collections and provided the opportunity for 2nd Formers be introduced to the concept of field work in Biology and Environmental Science.
“We sampled the biodiversity of plant species and invertebrates,” explained Teacher of Biology and Head of Bramley Science, Susan Penny.
“Some of the students really enjoyed using the tree beaters to shake out caterpillars, spiders and beetles. We also saw parakeets, moorhens and some lovely goslings.”
A curious skulk of foxes also made an appearance, hoping to make the most of Kew’s visiting packed lunches.
Delving into Digital
As our 3rd Form were finding out more about Bletchley Park this week, 4th Form GCSE computer scientists were on the same estate exploring the National Museum of Computing.
The museum charts the development of computing from the codebreaking efforts mentioned earlier to the meteoric rise of personal computing.
“The museum brings theoretical knowledge of computer architecture and programming to life,” explained Teacher of Computer Science, Pat Risley.
One of the focuses at the site is the huge Colossus – the world’s first electronic computer which helped to decipher the encrypted messages between Hitler and his generals.
Incredible Art
Want to be inspired?
If you take a trip into our Prideaux Building right now, you can admire the winning pieces in our Intersections Art Competition.
Students from across the College were invited to produce a piece of artwork themed around the title of Intersections: The Art of Science and The Science of Art.
Congratulations to 3rd Formers, Millie who scooped the Linda Newman Prize and Stela who won Best in Show.
The Sixth Form 2D/3D category was won by Lower Sixth Former, Felix, with Upper Sixth Former, Bella taking the Sixth Form Photography prize.
The 3rd, 4th and 5th Form 2D/3D class was won by 3rd Former, Lottie, with 2nd Former, Izzy, winning the 1st and 2nd Form category.
A Golfing Week
A group of LWC golfers made the journey to Sunningdale Golf Club last weekend in a bittersweet fixture against Wellington College.
“The occasion was a fitting send-off for our Upper Sixth golfers, Will and Oli,” remarked Head of Golf, Craig O’nions. “Both have made a significant contribution to golf at the College and it was excellent to see them enjoy one final school fixture at such an iconic venue.
“The LWC Golf Performance Programme offers the opportunity to compete at venues of this quality, against strong opposition.”
It’s an action-packed week for LWC Golf, with our girls’ team at the Cranleigh Invitational today, a team competing at the Schools’ Speedgolf Championships at Wellington College tomorrow and our very own Head, Adam Williams, in action at the British Speedgolf Pairs Championship on Sunday.
Prepare for the Party Season
They may seem a way off yet, but the inevitable end-of-exams parties aren’t THAT far away.
Tomorrow (Saturday, 16th May), parent coach, author and founder of Teen Tips, Alicia Drummond is on hand to give some much-needed advice in the latest of our Parental Engagement Programme sessions.
From 9.30am in Room 5.7, she’ll talk us through how to support our children in navigating parties safely and responsibly.
You can reserve your place here.
Wellbeing Boost
This week’s Wellbeing Boost comes courtesy of one of our Houseparents, who all know a thing or two about pastoral care during exams or at any time of the year.
Park’s Holly Hunter-Wright believes that taking a moment will serve our youngsters well in any situation, especially during times of stress.
“I often speak to Parkies about having a ‘Park Purposeful Pause’ which is transferable to all,” she explains.
“We live enriching lives which are often fast-paced and varied. Sometimes, a mere moment can act as a deliberate, mindful interruption to stop and re-centre. During exam periods, we suggest building in rest breaks or social time, but by making these purposeful, they have a greater impact.
“This allows us to shift from living on autopilot to being conscious of the joy surrounding us.”
Meet the Prefect Team – Callum
Head of School House, Callum is the next of our new Prefect Team to feature in LWC News.
Each week, we’re getting to know another member of the student leadership team to find out what they hope to bring to the role.
“I applied to be a prefect because I wanted a more active role in helping to shape the LWC community,” Callum explains.
“I’m really looking forward to strengthening the sense of community in School House and ensuring that everyone feels supported, encouraged and represented.
“I enjoy the opportunities at LWC, especially those involving the 1200. I also love house events and the passion involved in them.”
Summer Stroll
Families can explore LWC at their own pace at next month’s Summer Open Evening.
If you know someone who would love life in our 1200, encourage them to reserve their place for Tuesday, 16th June from 6.30pm.
They can enjoy family-friendly activities, live music, engaging talks and a self-guided tour of our special space.
Discover more here.
Drama in the Spotlight
It’s difficult to believe that half-term will be here in a week.
And as soon as term resumes, the opportunities to watch our talented actors come thick and fast.
Ahead of our summer play, Private Peaceful on Wednesday, 24th and Thursday, 25th June – you can now reserve your place for our Drama Showcase.
On Thursday, 4th June from 7pm, you can experience a range of drama performances from across the year groups, including from our LAMDA students.
A summer buffet and lemonade will accompany the evening in the Nadine Uppal Theatre, with tickets available via the LWC Box Office.
Strong Connections
Our LWC Connect Networking Breakfasts offer the opportunity for members of our College community to meet others in their sector, whilst inspiring students at the same time.
Last Thursday’s focused on Finance, Business Management and Entrepreneurship and saw sector professionals meeting with Sixth Formers in Zanetas to share experiences.
“These events give parents and Sternians the chance to meet, whilst helping students to understand the power of networking in a safe environment,” explained Alumni Manager, Clare Faherty.
LWC Connect is open to all staff, parents and Sternians. If you’re not yet a member, you can join here.
LWC Life
Fill your home with stunning scents, whilst supporting local business at the same time.
If you’re an LWC Life member, you can currently claim 15% off at Near Wild Heaven on Odiham High Street.
This independent wellbeing and lifestyle shop encourages us all to live more naturally with its range of organic skincare and home products.
You can claim your discount (which excludes the Cleo jewellery range) both online (using a code obtained via the LWC Life portal) or in-store (with your LWC Life digital ID card).
To sign up to LWC Life and begin claiming offers like this, you need to be an LWC parent, member of staff or Sternian and you can do so here.
Widening Worlds
It’s a busy time for learning beyond the classroom at LWC – with three residential trips setting off from the 1200 next week.
On Monday, our 4th Form geographers head to Somerset’s Nettlecombe Court Field Studies Centre for a three-day trip involving a programme of diverse investigations into rivers, coasts and tourism.
As they return, our Lower Sixth A-level and BTEC PE students head north to St Georges Park and Alton Towers.
Over three days, they’ll observe fitness testing, player profiling and learn about the physical effects of anxiety on the human body.
And on Thursday, 4th Form and Lower Sixth Spanish students will begin their stay with host families in the historic city of Valladolid in Northwestern Spain.
There, they’ll immerse themselves in the country’s rich culture through language and cookery classes, alongside day trips and (we understand) copious amounts of tapas.
Co-curricular Focus – Archery
There are more than 50 co-curricular activities taking place every Saturday morning at LWC during Summer Term.
One of them is Archery.
“Those taking part have learned not only how to fire an arrow, but have developed skills around setting up the equipment, basic maintenance, etiquette and scoring,” explained Archery Lead, Ian Rockett.
“The group are coming on very well and we have some natural, good shots!”
Amazing Alliums
We’re into allium season across the 1200.
These glorious spherical balls of purple beauty are also dark horses.
Not only are they edible (although toxic to cats and dogs), they’re also capable of surviving at high altitude, multiplying naturally and deterring pests like slugs and aphids. That’s some serious multitasking.
If you have a picture captured in the 1200 that you’d be happy to share, please email it to 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.
The Life of a Military Family at LWC
There are more than 120,000 children in the UK who are part of military families.
Whilst typical family life can be challenging enough, the unique experience of being a forces family can present a range of other issues.
Mum of two, Katie, is an LWC parent and admits that her family life is different to that experienced by many.
“There’s a lot of moving around, periods where one parent is away and a general sense that plans can change at short notice,” she explains. “For children, this life can mean changing schools a lot, leaving friends behind and having to adapt quickly to new environments.”
But she’s also quick to point out that it can have character-building benefits: “It does build resilience and independence, but it also means children sometimes miss out on the consistency that other children may take for granted.”
For Katie and her husband, a serving member of His Majesty’s Armed Forces, the solution lay in a boarding environment, but one that needed to be carefully chosen.
“Boarding school felt like a way of giving our children a more stable base academically, socially and emotionally,” she explains.
“We chose LWC because of its reputation for pastoral care and its clear understanding of military life. The school’s location is also a significant advantage – close enough to London for accessibility, well-connected to major airports and within easy reach of several military postings. The balance of accessibility and supportive community made it the right fit for us.”
LWC offers a generous fee remission for children whose parents are serving members of His Majesty’s Armed Forces. Service remissions are automatically awarded to families who are eligible for the Ministry of Defence Continuity of Education Allowance (CEA). As a result, these families only ever pay a parental contribution of 10% of the gross full boarding fee at the College.
Katie is confident that her family’s choice in boarding school has been the right one.
“The boarding environment at LWC and particularly the House system with its incredible Matrons helps to create a real sense of home,” she admits. “That’s so important when family life can feel a little fragmented…Feeling comfortable and happy is what matters most.”
Read more of Katie’s story on our website.
Key Dates
Intersections: The Art of Science and The Science of Art Exhibition, The Prideaux Gallery
Ongoing until Thursday, 2nd July
May Half Term Begins
4pm, Friday, 22nd May
Summer Term Resumes
Monday, 1st June
Drama Showcase, Nadine Uppal Theatre
7pm, Thursday, 4th 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
A-level & BTEC Results Day
Thursday, 13th August
GCSE Results Day
Thursday, 20th August
Autumn Term Pupil Welcome (All Year Groups)
Thursday, 3rd September
The Beckwith
Saturday, 5th September
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