Welcome to LWC News
There’s something almost magical about this point in the Summer Term at LWC.
The exams are over, we stand on the brink of the Summer Solstice and there’s a heady mix of excitement and achievement for what’s already happened and what’s still to come.
Next Saturday, we’ll celebrate together at Speech Day.
For now, you’ll find more than a few reasons to do so below.
News
End of Exams!
It began at the end of April with GCSE French Speaking, now the public examination timetable at LWC has finally come to an end.
Our A-level mathematicians were the last to finish yesterday afternoon, completing another summer of GCSEs and A-levels.
Over the course of eight weeks, 2948 exam papers have been written at LWC, across 51 different qualifications.
283 students from four different year groups have been involved, notching up a total of 130 hours of exam time.
Well done LWC. That’s some achievement.
Phoebe Sets Off
LWC Upper Sixth Former, Phoebe may have finished her A-level exams but now she faces a challenge of a different kind.
Tomorrow, she sets off from John o’ Groats in her bid to become the youngest woman to run the length of the UK.
Phoebe aims to complete the challenge, alongside dad, Chris, in 68 days – finishing at Land’s End at the end of August.
You can read more about Phoebe’s 1000+ mile-challenge later in this issue of LWC News and anyone interested in pledging their support, can sponsor her here.
Award-Winning Thinking
23 members of the LWC 4th Form have produced award-winning results in this year’s National Scientific Thinking Challenge.
Those who received bronze awards find themselves in the top 40% of all entering the NSTC from across the UK. Silver award-winners are in the top 25%, with those achieving gold in the top 10%.
“We’re delighted to be celebrating 4th Form’s national success,” added Head of Science, Holly Welham, at a presentation on Monday. “This accolade will stand out on university and job applications in any discipline. Scientific thinking involves analysing evidence, evaluating claims, solving problems and making informed decisions. These are valuable skills in every field and our students should feel extremely proud of their achievements.”
A Celebration of Canoeing
LWC hosted the Devizes to Westminster Canoe Race Prize-giving last weekend, with nearly 200 guests joining us for the event in the 1200.
One of LWC’s teams was awarded the City of London Police Cadet Cup for the third-placed junior team, featuring three crews. LWC’s Abi and Eddie won the silver medal for the second-fastest Junior Mixed Crew. Imogen and Orla won the bronze medal for the third-fastest Junior Ladies’ Crew and technical coach, Mike Rees-Clark, was awarded a bronze medal for placing third in the Singles Race.
In September, LWC will launch the country’s first school-based High-Performance Paddling Programme. Watch this space for more.
On the Precipice of Private Peaceful
The curtain goes up on LWC’s summer play next week.
The College production of Private Peaceful will premiere on Wednesday (24th June) at 7pm, with a further two performances on Thursday, 25th June at 2pm and 7.30pm in Gavin Hall. Tickets can still be reserved via the LWC Box Office.
Lower Sixth Former, Ella, plays Charlie Peaceful in the play about two brothers and their journey through World War 1.
“Charlie is very loyal and protective of his family and his relationship with Tommo is central to the play,” Ella explains. “It’s a challenging role at times, but also really rewarding to be part of such an emotional story.
“Everyone’s been putting in a lot of effort during rehearsals and it’s been nice to see it slowly coming together. It’s quite a demanding play, but the cast and crew have been very supportive.”
Summer Street Food
From Thai green curry to Hampshire hog roast and souvlaki kebabs to New York dirty dogs…
Yesterday, LWC was treated to a Summer Street Food Festival by our outstanding Catering Team.
A variety of stalls were set up, offering mouthwatering dishes for students to graze from and try new foods.
“The Street Food Festival aimed to create a vibrant and bustling atmosphere in a relaxed setting, where students and staff could taste and enjoy diverse styles of food from different cultures around the world,” explained LWC Head Chef, Adrian Culver.
“We wanted to bring social connection through food.”
Tearing up the Track
LWC’s athletes are far from winding down to the end of the season.
Four will compete at tomorrow’s South-Eastern Schools’ Inter Counties Championships at Medway Park in Gillingham, having qualified at the County Championships in Portsmouth last week.
Congratulations to Roan, Will, Tobi and Tolu who will take part.
12 athletes competed for the district at the County Championships with a variety of personal bests and new school records being set.
Bramley House Shines
LWC’s youngest musicians took to the stage for last week’s Bramley House Music Concert.
Our 1st and 2nd Formers entertained an audience in the Nadine Uppal Theatre with a varied programme, which included our BrightSparks Orchestra, ensemble and solo performances.
Triple Scouting Success
Lower Sixth Former, Jonathan, was honoured with three of Scouting’s top awards last week.
He was presented with the Chief Scout’s Diamond Award alongside his Young Leader’s Award and Duke of Edinburgh’s Silver Award.
“It was a proud moment and the culmination of a lot of hard work and commitment,” Jonathan added.
He now aims to work towards the highest honour in UK Scouting: The King’s Scout Award.
You can read more about Jonathan here.
Super Serve
LWC’s 1st Boys’ and Girls’ Tennis Teams put in a great performance at this week’s St George’s Cup Tennis Tournament at Magdalen College School in Oxford.
Lower Sixth Formers, Molly and Liv reached the final of the grass court national event featuring the best schools in the South West. They only narrowly missed out on the silverware to Wellington.
The tournament also saw Upper Sixth Formers Jack and Charlie play their final fixture for the College.
On the same day, LWC’s U15 Girls’ Tennis Team, consisting of 4th Formers, Nala, Pippa, Hollie and Sophia, qualified for the regional final knockout of the LTA Schools Area Cup after beating King’s School in Winchester.
“Special mention should also go to Issie Barfoot, who has co-ordinated the whole tennis programme and coached these teams for the last few years,” added Tom Flowerdew, who has been working with the girls’ teams this year.
A Midsummer’s Night with the CCF
LWC’s CCF contingent spent the night at the Minley Training Area, learning the art of advanced fieldcraft last weekend.
Contingent Leader, Alex Hamilton explained, “After setting up base, the cadets were given tactical lessons which included how to react to enemy fire. The exercise ended with the rescue of a downed helicopter under enemy fire.
“The cadets showed superb fieldcraft knowledge, using the lessons learned over the last few months to great effect. The group didn’t rely on rations throughout. We finished the exercise with pizza in the field!”
Seahorses at Studland
A blustery Studland was the destination for Lower Sixth Environmental Science and Biology students last week.
They spent time with volunteers from The Seahorse Trust on South Beach, hearing about their seahorse conservation project, before moving to Knoll Beach and observing sand dune succession and plant growth.
“The trip was really rewarding,” added Head of Environmental Science, Esther Haydock. “The Seahorse Trust were amazing and explained what to look out for on the seashore.”
3D Artists Explore
The New Art Centre at Roche Court Sculpture Park near Salisbury displays 20th and 21st century art in the grounds of a home originally built for Admiral Nelson’s family.
This week, two groups of 4th Form GCSE 3D Art students took a trip to explore the art set in a mixture of indoor and outdoor spaces, amidst the rolling Wiltshire countryside.
The trip was designed to support their extended project work and to allow them to observe how artists have developed their practice and the themes involved.
“After 28 years of visits, this beautiful setting never fails to deliver,” added Teacher of Art, Graham Mobbs. “The work is in constant flux, offering students the opportunity to experience a wide range of sculpture and painting from international artists.”
Esmé Becomes a Referee
4th Former, Esmé is a fully qualified football referee.
Not content with being part of LWC’s ISFA Shield-winning U15A Girls’ Team, she has now completed an FA refereeing course.
“I had to learn the Laws of the Game and attend dedicated FA training sessions,” Esmé explained. “I then needed to referee at least five competitive matches before a final session in which I collected a certificate and badge to qualify as a referee.”
Esmé has loved football from a young age and also plays for Finchampstead FC.
“Refereeing allows me to continue my favourite hobby, whilst developing confidence, communication skills, and decision-making under pressure,” she admitted.
There are roughly 3,000 female referees affiliated with the FA, compared to 33,000 males. We think the world needs more Esmés.
Thrill-Seeking Rewards
A day at Thorpe Park has been the reward for students who’ve achieved the highest ATOLs in their year groups.
Last week saw Bramley students take to the theme park for their reward trip.
Yesterday, it was the turn of 3rd Form to Lower Sixth, alongside their heads of year.
One group had better weather than the other, we’ll leave you to decide which was which.
Meet the Prefect Team – Aubrey
Lower Sixth Former, Aubrey, is a 5th Form Academic Prefect and Head of Year.
He was inspired to apply to become a prefect by the previous team:
“I would like to follow in their footsteps and aid the younger years to become the best version of themselves,” he explains.
“I’m keen to help learning at LWC to be as interesting and thought‑provoking as possible. I really enjoy the fact that everyone strives to achieve their very best across the College.”
Exploring Next Steps
LWC’s Lower Sixth Form were given a taste of university life last week.
The year group travelled together to the University of Bristol Open Day as part of the College’s ongoing UCAS Preparation Programme.
“The trip formed an important part of the wider support programme designed to help our students to explore the opportunities on offer beyond LWC,” explained Head of Futures, Nicola Hirst.
“Those interested in alternative pathways, including degree apprenticeships and other post-18 opportunities, will also benefit from access to dedicated resources and guidance throughout the year.”
Sixth Form Open Morning
It’s good to start thinking about what comes after GCSEs early.
If you know someone starting to consider post-16 options, they’re more than welcome to attend our Sixth Form Open Morning on Tuesday (23rd June) to see what life in the 1200 could look like.
The event gets underway at 9.30am and will give our guests the opportunity to meet with staff and explore our state-of-the-art Sixth Form facilities.
Places can be booked via the LWC website.
Golfers in the Swing
LWC’s golfers are gearing up for their season finale on Wednesday (24th June).
The Order of Merit series will conclude at Blackmoor Golf Club, featuring 24 students.
It’s been a busy few weeks for the College Golf Programme, with our golfers competing at courses including The Mad Swans near Alton, Alton Golf Club (where 3rd Former, Albie claimed victory in the Hicks Cup) and Sherfield Oaks Golf Club.
“Overall, it’s been a great few weeks of competitive golf, individual success and another valuable team victory, with plenty still to play for,” summarised Head of Golf, Craig O’nions.
Academic Focus – French
1st Form were transported to a Parisian café last week for an interactive lesson to practise language skills.
“The group prepared and practised role play in small groups, ordering food in a restaurant setting,” explained Teacher of French, Lauren Showell.
“The aim was to practise their vocabulary and pronunciation in a real-world situation. They created their own dialogue based upon what we’d been learning in the lesson.”
LWC Life
It’s the season for thank yous.
Whether it’s tutors, teachers, sports coaches or friends, if you’re an LWC Life member, you can get 20% off personalised stationery, cards and gifts by This is Nessie.
This is Nessie has a unique collection ranging from greetings cards to bespoke prints, tea towels and mugs that are perfect for weddings, birthdays, new homes, teacher gifts and more!
LWC Life is a benefits scheme for LWC parents, staff and Sternians, providing access to a variety of offers curated for the College community.
Still not a member? You can sign up for free here.
Midsummer Marvel
This Sunday is the Summer Solstice and the point at which the hemisphere is tilted at its maximum towards the sun.
It’s the day we see the longest amount of daylight and the shortest period of darkness.
This time of year always leads to some glorious late sunset shots of the 1200.
Thanks to Lower Sixth Former, Abi for capturing this beautiful image at the College this week.
If you have a great picture of the 1200, please share it with us 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 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.
Tackling the Length of Britain
Tomorrow, LWC Upper Sixth Former, Phoebe, embarks upon the challenge of a lifetime.
Three years after registering for LWC’s Chaplain’s Challenge as a way of spending more time with her dad, this self-confessed, previously ‘unsporty’ 18-year-old faces the prospect of running 1033 miles from John o’ Groats to Land’s End.
Oh, and this comes just days after Phoebe completed her A-levels.
In taking on this challenge, she hopes to become the youngest female to run the length of Britain. “I’m feeling really excited,” she admits. “We’ve been planning this for so long that it now feels like the natural next step, and I feel ready to take it on.”
Naturally, Phoebe’s dad Chris will be on the journey with her, having been by her side in that very first Chaplain’s Challenge, for every one of the 26 miles at this year’s London Marathon and now, from the north-western tip of Scotland to the south-western coast of Cornwall.
The pair will be raising money for the transformative Lord Wandsworth Foundation and the National Autistic Society, following Phoebe’s diagnosis in 2024.
The idea for this feat, which will take just short of 70 days, stemmed from a conversation with LWC Head, Adam Williams.
“I was sitting in Mr Williams’ office one day, during the time I was going through my Autism assessment and I was having a bit of a moment,” Phoebe explains. “A few days later, he sent me a link to a story about Imogen Boddy, a British ultra-marathon runner who had set the women’s record for climbing and running the UK’s Three Peaks Challenge. I went into a deep dive about her and it turned out she also held the record for being the youngest female to run the length of the UK.
“I thought…I can do that.”
Tomorrow, she will set out to do exactly that, followed just over a month later by LWC 4th Former, Will, who aims to complete the very same challenge, but from Land’s End to John o’ Groats and on two wheels instead of two feet.
The 15-year-old will join his dad, Tom, 19-year-old brother Nicko and 17-year-old sister Chloe, who has cerebral palsy and is at the heart of the adventure.
“Chloe saw a DVD of my dad cycling from Land’s End to John o’ Groats a few years ago and asked if she could do it,” Will explains. “I was in the room when she asked if we could do it. At the beginning, I was really sceptical about whether the more rural hotels would take wheelchairs or have space, but I had no doubt that Chloe could do it.”
The three cyclists will be joined by mum, Alex and Labrador, Koda, following on in the support van as they aim to raise money for Treloar’s in Alton, where Chloe goes to school and PALS (Partners for Active Leisure Scheme) West Berkshire, both of which have supported Chloe throughout her life.
Having spent months training with the Newbury Velo Club and at LWC in The Barn and the swimming pool, Will feels he’s ready to take on the journey in 18 days (cycling around 60 miles a day).
“I’m looking forward to seeing new places and the countryside,” he admits. “I’m most excited about getting to Scotland where my godparents live.”
Will also admits to having received a lot of support from those in the 1200, including his Summerfield Houseparent, Dave Beven and friends across the College.
“People have said they’re very impressed that I’m attempting it and have told me not to fall off,” he laughs.
John o’ Groats to Land’s End (and vice versa) is the ultimate UK-based challenge. This summer, two of our own will embark upon it. That’s true LWC spirit.
Read the full story (and find Phoebe and Will’s fundraising links) here.
Key Dates
Intersections: The Art of Science and The Science of Art Exhibition, The Prideaux Gallery
Ongoing until Thursday, 2nd July
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