Welcome to LWC News
There is always history being made at LWC.
In the last week alone, we’ve hosted the largest cricket club in the world, celebrated LWC’s most successful fundraising year ever and witnessed new participation records being set in our Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme.
We think that calls for a restful weekend.
Find details of all of this and much more, below.
News
The MCC Comes to LWC
They are the guardians of the Laws of Cricket and owners of Lord’s…
On Wednesday, the MCC came to the 1200 to face LWC’s Boys’ and Girls’ 1st XI Teams.
The Marylebone Cricket Club is the most active in the world, playing around 480 matches every year against schools, universities and clubs.
The LWC Boys’ 1st XI beat their opponents for the first time in over a decade, with 5th Former, Kit scoring a remarkable 104. The LWC Girls’ 1st Xl were narrowly beaten and Upper Sixth Former Annabelle was given the Spirit of Cricket Award for all-round excellence.
Record-Breaking Fundraising
Want some uplifting inspiration ahead of the weekend?
This year has been the most successful fundraising year in LWC history, with £1.9 million secured in philanthropic support.
It’s hoped that figure could rise to £2 million before the end of Summer Term.
You can read more about this and the extraordinary efforts of the LWC community in our latest LWC Supporter Update.
Put together by our Philanthropy & Alumni Relations Team, this bi-annual publication provides a snapshot of just what’s been achieved over a six month period….and you can’t fail to be moved by it.
Thank for your ongoing support.
Dexter is Wired for Sound
Few can claim to have spent the recent half-term in the company of Brad Pitt….
But 4th Former Dexter has definitely earned the right.
He’s just completed a two-week work experience placement as a trainee sound recordist on the Amazon/MGM feature film, The Isle of Man, starring Channing Tatum and Eve Hewson.
The production is based upon the annual Isle of Man TT race and is produced by Hollywood legend, Pitt.
“I was mixing sound along with recording it, setting up boom microphones for location filming on the TT track and of course carrying out the coffee runs,” admitted Dexter.
“I’m now hooked on the idea of working in the film industry and would be thrilled to have this kind of job in the future.”
Thriving Theatre
Last week’s Drama Showcase demonstrated the breadth of acting talent we have at LWC.
The evening featured performances from across the year groups in the Nadine Uppal Theatre.
LWC’s Head of Performing Arts, Gemma Reeks added, “The showcase celebrated Drama highlights from this academic year. From Coram Shakespeare success to LAMDA exam pieces, it was a glorious evening of drama all round.”
Competitive Carriage Driving
Lower Sixth Former, Sophie H has been competing on the international stage.
She took part in the FEI Carriage Driving Competition in Chepstow last weekend, facing opposition from all over the world.
Carriage driving is the oldest competitive equestrian sport. Drivers sit on a vehicle drawn by a single horse or pony as part of a pair or team of four.
They face three trials – dressage, marathon and obstacle driving.
“I came first in the marathon and obstacle driving and second overall,” Sophie explained.
Sophie’s Leadership Gets Top Marks
Meanwhile, Lower Sixth Former and CCF sergeant, Sophie C, has been showing off her leadership skills beyond the 1200.
She has gained top marks in the CCF’s Senior Cadet Instructor’s Course at Longmoor Training Camp.
“I spent time being shown how to teach and lead a CCF lesson, before preparing and delivering my own lessons,” Sophie explained.
“This was followed by 24 hours in the field, where we took turns in leading various activities.”
Sophie has been part of LWC’s CCF contingent for the last four years and admits, “I really love being a senior, having enjoyed the junior part of the course. I can now teach more advanced lessons, which is something I really wanted to do.”
Small Screen Expertise
The actor, Ellen O’Grady has appeared in small screen staples such as Casualty, Doctors and Holby City to silver screen classics like Disney’s Beauty & the Beast.
This week, she led an Acting for TV Workshop for LWC’s Drama Scholars.
She was able to develop skills around performing to camera, refining body language and ‘working the shot’.
Hockey High-Flyer
Sternian and England hockey international, Monica Watkins, joined us back in the 1200 this week.
Monica is part of England U21 Hockey Team and came back to LWC to train ahead of this summer’s internationals.
LWC’s Director of Sport and Head of Hockey, Soma Singh, added, “It was great to welcome Monica back and to see her doing so well. We look forward to continuing to follow her career.”
Explore on a Summer’s Evening
Places are limited for our Summer Open Evening on Tuesday (16th June).
But if you know someone who would be a perfect fit with life at LWC, this is a great opportunity for them to come along and explore the 1200.
Families can wander the campus at their own pace and enjoy the feel of a midsummer’s evening at LWC.
There’ll be family-friendly activities and engaging talks on offer from staff who will also be on hand to answer questions.
The event begins at 6.30pm and spaces can be reserved here.
Bramley Basks in Spotlight
Tonight sees LWC’s youngest musicians taking centre stage.
The Bramley House Music Concert gets underway at 7pm in the Nadine Uppal Theatre.
The growing skill and confidence of our 1st and 2nd Form performers will be in the spotlight, together with our BrightSparks Orchestra.
We look forward to welcoming you along. Places can be reserved here.
A World of Chocolate
A myriad of academic trips continue to leave from and return to the 1200 this week.
LWC’s Lower Sixth Form BTEC Enterprise & Entrepreneurship students have been to Cadbury World in Birmingham, where they explored the history of chocolate and the Cadbury brand.
“The purpose of the trip was to add some context to their next unit of study: The Development of a Marketing Campaign,” explained BTEC E&E Lead, Deborah Upham.
“We will use Cadbury as a case study to support classroom learning. The highlight of this trip was taking part in the marketing workshop and enjoying a mini pot of melted chocolate which we could add sweets and biscuits to!”
Roaming Where Romans Roamed
LWC’s 1st Form Classics students spent the day at the largest Roman home in Britain last week.
They travelled to Fishbourne Roman Palace along with Bignor Roman Villa in West Sussex.
Head of Classics, Alex Hamilton explained, “At Fishbourne, we saw evidence of a magnificent palace, probably owned by one of the first tribal kings of Britain to have supported the Romans. At Bignor, we saw beautiful mosaics in a Roman villa which had been discovered in a field.”
They both gave us a very tangible connection to our Roman past and brought to life the beautiful artwork that the Romans left for us to enjoy.”
Bringing Biodiversity to Life
Biodiversity Net Gain is an approach to land management which aims to leave the natural environment in a better place.
This week, Lower Sixth Environmental Science, Geography and Biology students took a trip to Whitchurch Habitat Bank to see this strategy in more detail.
The bank is nearly 250 acres in size, featuring vast woodland and grassland.
“This was a fantastic opportunity to experience the difference between a plantation of non-native conifers and a mixed native ancient woodland,” explained Head of Environmental Science, Dr Esther Haydock.
“Students were shown indicator species that show how healthy an ecosystem is. They asked brilliant questions and were really engaged.”
Wartime in the 1200
In less than a fortnight, LWC will transport you from wartime Devon to the trenches of Belgium in the College production of Michael Morpurgo’s Private Peaceful.
The drama follows two brothers and their journey into adulthood as the world changes around them.
Performances will take place on Wednesday, 24th June at 7pm and Thursday, 25th June at 2pm and 7.30pm in Gavin Hall. Tickets can be booked via the LWC Box Office.
4th Former, Elin plays ‘Teen Tommo’ in the show.
“I read the book Private Peaceful when I was younger and it’s remained one of my favourites,” she explains. “I’ve been a part of the College musicals each year since Oliver! but never the summer play.
“Rehearsals are a lot of fun and you get to talk to people you wouldn’t normally during the school day, because so many different year groups are involved.”
Daring DofE
New records are being set at LWC for participation in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Bronze Award.
The spirit of adventure which runs throughout the College propelled another group to the Isle of Wight last weekend, to complete their qualifying expedition.
As with the teams that went before them in May, they were tasked with navigating their way from the island’s north coast to Brighstone.
The teams camped along the way and then walked to Yarmouth via The Needles for the final stage of their mission.
For Luca
The 23rd of June would have been Sternian, Luca’s 18th birthday.
Last year, the former Hazelvearean, who left the College in 2024, passed away suddenly and the LWC community is now getting behind a special charity push in his honour.
Luca’s dad, Scott, plans to set off from his home in Yateley on Tuesday (16th June) and walk the 255km to South Wales – aiming to finish on Luca’s birthday.
“Scott wanted to do something really challenging to honour Luca’s life and memory,” explains Luca’s mum, Claire. He will complete his journey at the headquarters of 2wish in Llantrisant, a charity offering support for those affected by sudden death in young people.
“2wish and LWC have both been fantastic,” continued Claire. “They have provided vital support and guidance when we’ve needed it most. In fact, it was Lindsey (Senior Nurse at LWC) who suggested that we reach out to 2wish. We were one of the first families to get their support when they began operating in Hampshire last July.”
You can support Scott via his fundraising page here. Members of the LWC community plan to join him at various stages along the way. We’ll keep you up to date on his progress.
A Page-Turning Summer Ahead
There’s nothing quite like getting into a good book during the summer months.
We’d love LWC students, staff and parents to join us for the Summer Book Club across the Lord Wandsworth Family of Schools on Tuesday, 29th September at LWC.
Choose to read one of eight books during the summer holidays and then come together for some lively discussion all about them in September.
Choices range from whodunnit classics like Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express to Tim Marshall’s The Power of Geography and futuristic thriller, The Loop by Ben Oliver.
Students from 3rd Form and above are invited to attend. Together with LWC staff, they will be loaned a copy of their choice of book from the LWC Library. Interested? Sign up here by Monday (15th June).
Cadets Firing on All Cylinders
LWC’s CCF cadets developed their marksmanship confidence last weekend with a Range Day at Gibraltar Barracks in Surrey.
They were able to shoot with the A2 rifles they have been learning to use and CCF Contingent Leader, Alex Hamilton was delighted with their progress.
“There was some fantastic marksmanship, in some cases by cadets who have only just passed their weapons test,” he explained.
“I am very excited by the prospect of assembling a great shooting team from these cadets when we take part in competitions next term. They have shown great skill and I look forward to our first shooting competition in September.”
Farmer Paul Inspires Next Generation
LWC Farmer, Paul Sigley, is a crucial link to the land and we’re lucky to have him.
Not only does he work alongside our students here in the 1200, but he’s also been encouraging the (even younger) generations of neighbouring Long Sutton Primary School to love the environment.
This week, he’s been providing tractor rides for the children to see how our local land is used. Some were even able to catch a glimpse of deer running through the fields.
You can never be too young to develop a love of the outdoors.
Head Back to the 90s
Let us transport you back to an era when phones were wired to the wall and streaming almost exclusively involved water.
Grab a group and join us next Saturday night for our Back to the 90s Disco for LWC parents, staff and friends.
From 6.30pm, our South View Marquee will come alive to the sounds of the decade which brought us incredible indie, divine dance and revolutionary R&B.
There’ll be 90s-themed cocktails on offer, along with street food and an opportunity to reminisce.
Tickets are priced at £10 (about £3.70 in 1992) and available via the LWC Box Office.
Here Come the (Golfing) Girls
Clare and Sonia are on a mission.
These current and former LWC parents want to see more girls discovering the game of golf.
Both only became involved in the sport within the last few years and are now hosting a Girls’ Putting Masterclass at LWC next Wednesday afternoon (17th June) from 2pm.
The class is open to all girls of any ability with all equipment provided.
Places can be booked by emailing Head of Golf, Craig O’nions.
Meet the Prefect Team – Liv
2nd Form Co-curricular prefect, Liv applied to become part of the student-led Leadership Team to make a difference.
“I wanted to help others to feel that they could be who they are and to feel comfortable about doing what they love,” she explains.
“I feel very passionate about getting younger people to try a wide range of activities and have spoken to 2nd Form already about co-curricular.
“I love spending time with friends during co-curricular and am looking forward to the Colour Run on the 29th June which supports the LGBTQ+ Committee. It’s a great way to socialise and spread awareness of our differences.”
Full Boarders Enjoy Mad Swans
LWC’s full boarders were given a glimpse of brand new countryside escape, Mad Swans near Alton last weekend.
Students were able to try a range of activities from mini golf to padel and pickleball.
“For many, this was their very first experience of playing these sports,” explained LWC’s Head of Boarding, Dave Beven. “But that certainly didn’t stop them from getting involved and having fun.”
The day was rounded off with pizza and drinks in the facility’s new pizzeria.
Wellbeing Boost
It’s been a marathon for many, but the end of exam season is in sight!
The last scheduled exam at LWC will take place next Thursday afternoon (18th June) for our A-level mathematicians.
In the meantime, our final tip on how to best navigate this stressful stage falls to LWC’s Senior Nurse, Lindsey Scott, who urges us not to be complacent about meals.
“Always eat a well-balanced breakfast!” she implores. “It takes around two hours to feel the benefit of a meal, which includes helping our brains to be at their best.”
And if you’re struggling to get them to eat something first thing, Lindsey urges a little creativity with those final exam subjects (many of which are science!).
“Serve something relating to the exam of the day…. cut up fruit and place on a waffle to make it look like a plant cell, serve a chocolate Chemistry croissant… the potential is endless!”
Calling All Petrolheads…
If there’s a vehicle that has a special place in your heart, we want to hear from you.
The next meeting of the LWC Motoring Society takes place on Sternian Saturday at LWC (Saturday, 20th June).
Cars & Coffee will take place between noon and 3pm and we’d love to see your vehicle if you have one to show off!
Tickets are £5 (children under 11 go free) and include the car event and BBQ.
You can join LWCMS here.
LWC Life
The sunlight glimpsing off the Seine, the lure of The Louvre…
Inspired to take a trip to the French capital sometime soon? How about doing it free of charge?
If you’re an LWC Life member, you could win a three-night stay at The Hideaways Club in Île Saint-Louis.
Home will be a two-bedroomed apartment close to some of the most popular attractions in Paris.
To enter, simply click the link above and follow the instructions.
To become a member of LWC Life and take advantage of a host of specially selected offers and prizes for the LWC community, sign up here.
Dazzling Daisies
It’s daisy season.
There’s a particular abundance of these delicate flowers every June and September.
Daisies take their name from the old English word dægeseage, which means ‘day’s eye’ and refers to the fact that most daisies open their petals as the sun rises and closes them as the sun sets.
Don’t we all.
If you have a photo of the 1200 that you’d be happy to share, please email 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 8th of August.
On Monday, 10th August, The WK Coach will deliver a full-day of specialist wicket-keeping training for those aged 8-16 years.
This will all 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.
On Friday, 21st August, The R66T Academy will join coaches from The Cricket Academy for a one-day batting camp for 8-16-year-olds.
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.
Lego Robotics Holiday Club
Back by popular demand this summer is the Lego Robotics Holiday Club, led by our very own Head of 5th Form and Teacher of Chemistry, Adam Ball.
From Monday, 6th – Wednesday, 8th July and Monday, 17th – Wednesday, 19th August, there are Level 1 (Beginner) sessions available.
From Monday, 24th – Wednesday, 26th August, Level 2 (Intermediate) dates will take place.
All sessions are based at LWC and are suitable for 9-12-year-olds. They cost £180 for all three days.
You can book here or request more information from Adam Ball.
Cricketing Crusade
Nothing says Summer Term quite like the thwack of leather on willow.
Now that he’s had a few weeks to settle into the role, LWC’s new Head of Cricket, Lewis Sharp has been setting out his stall.
Mr Sharp is keen to develop a cricket programme to be proud of at LWC and, crucially, to be accessible to all.
“I want to ensure that those who are just taking their first steps in the game are getting a positive experience and have access to all of the facilities,” he explains. “For those more experienced players, I want to take them out of their comfort zones as much as possible. If you’re comfortably dominating all the time, you don’t learn and your game isn’t improving.”
Mr Sharp has joined LWC from Wellington Prep, where he led the cricket programme alongside football and rugby. He is involved in minor counties cricket, as part of the Berkshire first team squad and at club level for Finchampstead. Remarkably, he also finds the time to coach the Berkshire U18s. But it’s the step up to oversee LWC’s cricket offering that most excites him at the moment.
“I love watching people improve technically and tactically,” he admits. “I also really enjoy building relationships. Getting the job at LWC has been a real high point for me. I’m overseeing a big programme on an amazing site where everyone is really friendly. There’s just so much potential here.”
The College boasts an array of talented male and female cricketers, already in receipt of county call-ups. But Mr Sharp sees his role as not only nurturing these players, but developing a love of the sport in those who have previously barely picked up a bat. The aim, he says, is to be competing against the best sides in the country within a few years.
“I love giving opportunities in order for students to thrive,” he admits. “I’ve played 2nd Form students in sides facing men’s teams already this term. I wouldn’t have picked them if I didn’t think they could do it, but I’ve watched them score 70, 80, 90 runs in games and they need to be rewarded and pushed out of their comfort zone.”
Because, as we know at LWC, setting foot outside of comfort zones is often where the magic happens.
Read more about Lewis Sharp’s passion for cricket without boundaries here.
Key Dates
Intersections: The Art of Science and The Science of Art Exhibition, The Prideaux Gallery
Ongoing until Thursday, 2nd July
LWC Summer Open Evening
6.30pm, Tuesday, 16th June
Back to the 90s Disco, South View Marquee
6.30pm, Saturday, 20th June
Private Peaceful, Gavin Hall
7pm, Wednesday, 24th & 2pm, 7.30pm, Thursday, 25th June
Speech Day
10am, Saturday, 27th June
Leavers’ Ball
7pm, Saturday, 27th June
Colour Run
4pm, Monday, 29th June
End of Year Party on the Green
4-6pm, Tuesday, 30th 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