Welcome to LWC News
October has been ushered in at LWC with a full programme of activity across the College.
Students are returning from trips with new perspectives; confidence is being encouraged by our artist-in-residence, and our sports spaces are alive to the sound of composure and competition.
Take five minutes to read about everything going on below.
Have a great weekend.
News
Reflections from the Far East
16 LWC students are back from the trip of a lifetime to the Middle Kingdom.
The group of 4th and 5th Formers enjoyed an extraordinary six days in Shenzhen on a football tour, where they played against local opposition, visited local tech giants and took advantage of some fantastic hospitality.
Shenzhen, in southeastern China, is famous for its extraordinary growth from a small fishing town to a city that is home to 18 million.
It boasts the headquarters of global companies such as BYD and Huawei and over 70% of the world’s drones are manufactured there.
Long Sutton Link
LWC and Long Sutton Church of England Primary School have been neighbours for over a century.
Now, we’re bringing the two schools even closer together with an innovative new alliance between the independent and state sectors. From this month, LWC and LSPS will share more resources, expertise and opportunities in an attempt to encourage collaborative community working.
Pupils at Long Sutton Primary School will have more regular access to our facilities, spaces and specialist sports coaching. Meanwhile, LWC students will work with their younger peers in developing mentoring, coaching and leadership skills. We hope to show how schools can work together to deliver excellence and a joy in learning, regardless of sector. You can read more here.
A Real Page-Turner
LWC’s termly Book Club was back on Tuesday.
Students, staff and parents from across the Lord Wandsworth Family of Schools gathered at LWC to discuss one of eight books they’d selected to read over the summer.
Ranging from whodunnit classics such as Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express to Tim Marshall’s The Power of Geography and Richard Matheson’s I Am Legend, the reading list offered something for everyone to get stuck into.
“For young people especially, a love of reading can be genuinely transformative, enhancing educational outcomes, whilst supporting personal growth and resilience,” added LWC Library Assistant, Claire Smith. We look forward to the next Book Club in Spring Term.
Sixth Form: Sorted
Learning feels different in the Sixth Form years.
Hear how LWC helps to open up the opportunities post-16 at our Sixth Form Open Morning & Subjects Fair next Saturday, 10th October from 9am.
Meet our record-breaking Sixth Form Leadership Team, discuss A-level & BTEC choices with our dedicated subject teachers and hear from those currently experiencing what it’s like to learn in the LWC Sixth Form.
Reserve your place here, if you haven’t already.
Marvellous Mendips
LWC’s fearless 1st Form have returned from The Mendips after a three-day adventure in which they bonded as a year group and discovered just how much they’re capable of.
The group spent time climbing, abseiling and caving near to Cheddar in Somerset, taking some of their first steps in character education here at LWC, along the way.
“I loved caving,” admitted Oli. “Climbing scared me at first, but it felt as though I’d really achieved something once I’d done it.”
“I really liked abseiling and the fact that you could go fast or slow,” admitted Daisy. “Caving scared me at the beginning and Mr Maidment nearly got stuck!”
Black History Month
October is Black History Month.
Each year, schools, communities and organisations across the UK are encouraged to honour the contributions of Black people to Britain’s past, present and future.
“This is a significant event that celebrates Black history and serves as a reminder that Black history is British history,” explains LWC’s Co-ordinator of the student-led Diversity Committee (pictured), Yvonne Brown.
“In education, diversity enhances learning by exposing students to different beliefs and different ways of thinking and knowing. Black History Month at LWC provides students with an opportunity to learn about what makes the diversity in Britain so great. We can reflect on historical injustice and acknowledge the importance of tackling racism and advocating for equity for all, whilst at the same time recognising the joy of Black British culture.”
A Peak Around The Grove
Teaching is now underway in The Grove, our new-look hub for Art, Design & Technology, Computer Science, Film and Media.
The building formerly known as ‘Old Science’ has been given a miraculous makeover, designed to inspire the next generation of creative thinkers to change the world.
Here’s just a sneaky look around a few of the Art, D&T rooms and communal spaces as these departments get settled in.
Jonty Lines up with Tennis Legends
3rd Former, Jonty, has had a once-in-a-lifetime experience with some of the world’s best tennis players.
He was one of just 18 ‘ballkids’ selected from more than 400 to be part of the Laver Cup at The O2 in London.
The Laver Cup is an annual men’s team tennis competition, inspired by golf’s Ryder Cup. It honours the legends of the game, together with showcasing today’s stars.
Jonty was able to rub shoulders with the likes of Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev, alongside captains Andre Agassi and Yannick Noah.
Revelatory Resident
LWC’s new artist-in-residence has spent her first week working with students from across the College.
Expressive landscape artist, Suzanne Winn, is at LWC for two weeks to encourage a fresh perspective on art and the trial of different techniques.
If you take a trip to our Prideaux Gallery right now, you’ll see Suzanne’s stunning exhibition called Finding the Light, inspired by LWC’s 1200 acres (some examples from which are pictured here). The exhibition continues until Sunday, 11th October.
Strong Pool Performance
LWC’s swimmers put on a fantastic display at the Hampshire English Schools Swimming Association National Qualifiers.
“Our Intermediate Girls were outstanding, winning both of their heats before going on to secure silver in the 4×50m freestyle relay and bronze in the 4×50m medley relay overall,” explained Head of Swimming, Jeni Loud.
“Our boys also put in a very strong performance, finishing 7th out of 16 teams in the freestyle relay. The team was made up mainly of 5th Form swimmers competing in an age group stretching to Upper Sixth. Everyone represented LWC superbly both in and out of the pool. We also discovered that one of the event officials was a Sternian!”
Musical Magic
“It’s a low-stakes opportunity to perform in front of an audience.”
LWC’s Director of Music, Simon Beston has been reflecting upon a joyous 20 minutes of music-making as part of the first Informal Lunchtime Concert of the new school year.
A group of students from across the year groups performed for a supportive audience of peers and staff in the Nadine Uppal Theatre.
“This is a great opportunity for those dipping their toes into performing in front of others for the first time, but is also open to experienced musicians, as well as those just beginning their musical journey,” Mr Beston concluded.
Creative, Curious Minds
“ADHD has nothing to do with intelligence. Many students with ADHD are creative, curious and work extremely hard.”
LWC’s Senior Head of SEN and Inclusion, Dr Brigitte Wood, has been reflecting upon the common myths held about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder during ADHD Awareness Month.
“The condition doesn’t always look like bouncing off the walls,” Dr Wood continues. “Each student is different and we support them in a range of ways, both in the classroom and beyond. Each SEN student has their own set of SEN headlines, written so that their teachers know the best ways in which to help them.”
Anyone with concerns around their child and a possible ADHD diagnosis is encouraged to speak out. “Please remember that you’re not alone,” adds Brigitte. “A helpful first step is to speak with your child’s tutor, who can share whether teachers have noticed similar traits. You can also contact Curriculum Support or the LWC Health Centre for guidance on possible next steps.”
Anderson Astounds English Students
LWC’s Lower Sixth English students watched Gillian Anderson perform in @sohoplace’s production of Edward Albee’s Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? last week.
“The experience was powerful, even trumping last year’s brilliant Curve Theatre production in Leicester (which took the travelling time to new lengths!),” explained Head of English, Chris Radmann.
Students described the play, which they are studying as a set text, as “exciting, tense and brilliant.”
“The intimacy of the stage allowed for the characters’ emotions to be felt thoroughly,” added one, with another student concluding that it was, “A very powerful and emotive performance, which was very useful for the course.”
Oxbridge Deadline Looms
The Autumn Term may well have just begun, but LWC’s Upper Sixth Formers applying to Oxbridge have been working hard on their applications for months.
With just under a fortnight to go until the Oxbridge application deadline, LWC’s Oxbridge Co-ordinator and Assistant Head of Sixth Form, Paul Donald reveals, “This year’s cohort have been preparing since the spring for their Oxbridge applications. They’ve all gone through their first and second drafts (and had feedback from me, their tutors and their subject teachers). Those with admissions tests have booked them and are preparing furiously with past papers.
“Applying to study at Oxbridge is one of the most competitive academic tasks in the world,” Mr Donald adds. “We continue to support students at each step, allowing them to showcase their academic ambitions and abilities.”
Back on Court
LWC’s U18A Netball Team battled hard against St George’s Ascot on Monday, in their first home cup game of the season.
St George’s go through to Round 2 of the Sisters n Sport Netball Senior Trophy (South), but Head of Netball, Emma Carlstedt-Duke believes there were many positives to take from the game.
“We came out strong from the first whistle,” she explained. “We showed great determination and battled goal for goal throughout the first half. There were some fantastic moments, alongside areas to develop. As a newly formed team, the girls should be incredibly proud. This is a great foundation to build upon as the season progresses.”
Supporting from the Sidelines
Richard Wheadon has over 20 years of teaching experience and his insightful guidance always proves popular with the LWC community.
On Monday, 12th October between 7 and 8pm, the educator and author will be hosting a Widening Worlds Together webinar for 5th Form parents, designed to help to support their children through GCSE year.
You can sign up to the session on Zoom, here.
High Hopes for Hockey Season
The hockey season is underway for LWC’s girls’ teams and the College’s 1st XI captains are looking forward what the next few months may bring.
“We have a lot of new players in the team, so I’m looking forward to seeing how we connect and play as a unit,” admits Co-captain and Upper Sixth Former, Bellsie. “I hope we can perform consistently and have both a successful and enjoyable season.”
“We love being competitive with each other in training,” adds fellow Captain, Annabelle. “It’s always lots of fun.
“I love how you’re constantly learning something. When I play hockey, it’s something I can entirely focus on and enjoy.”
LWC Life
LWC Life is a benefits portal exclusively for the LWC community.
If you’re a parent, staff member or Sternian, you can sign up for free and begin taking advantage of the bespoke offers immediately.
Aside from securing money off at local pubs and restaurants, retailers and on health and beauty, there are also a host of travel opportunities.
Right now, you can get 5% off your first booking with Far and Wild Travel, who create tailor-made holidays all over the globe, based upon your family’s interests and age range.
The average saving is up to £1,000, which could buy you a few holiday cocktails to celebrate!
Academic Focus: Env Science
LWC’s Upper Sixth Environmental Scientists have been testing the lie of the land (literally).
As part of their investigations into topography (which looks at the shape, features and elevation of land surface), they’ve been analysing the impact of humans.
“How soil management techniques like compaction, terracing, adding organic matter and horizontal ploughing can affect water run-off was under the microscope,” explained Head of Environmental Science, Dr Esther Haydock. “They also looked at the benefits of lab practicals versus conducting these investigations in the field.”
Bramley’s Morning of Sport
It’s an opportunity for Bramley House to come together for a fun morning of sport.
The Bramley Sports Festival gets underway tomorrow (Saturday, 3rd October) at LWC, featuring our 1st and 2nd Form boys and girls in rugby and hockey action (respectively).
“It’s great for our students to have fun playing sport and to be involved in something which is a festival and not a tournament,” explains the College’s Director of Sport, Soma Singh.
Up to 12 other schools will be in attendance from across the area for the event, which gets underway at 9am.
New Staff Spotlight
“I felt as though I could see how I would belong here, even before I was offered the role!”
New Teacher of English and Assistant Bramley Houseparent, Charlotte Hobbs, is no stranger to new surroundings, having taught at six schools across three different continents.
But when she arrived in The 1200 for her interview, Ms Hobbs admits that she already felt part of the team.
“I’m looking forward to getting to know all of the new students in Bramley,” Charlotte reveals, “And of course to teaching English, especially poetry.”
Outside of work, she enjoys walking her dog, Inka, going for runs with her husband and making the most of the facilities in The Barn. This year, she plans to learn a new musical instrument and is both a rescue scuba diver and a level 3 freediver (“although that doesn’t take up so much of my time anymore!”)
Taking the Road Less Travelled
Sternian brothers, Bob and Joe Ives, have had motoring adventures that have taken them all over the world.
From winning the legendary off-roading Camel Trophy, to working on Top Gear and The Grand Tour, they’re now sharing their stories with the LWC community.
On Wednesday, 14th October, join them for an evening in Gavin Hall, where they’ll speak to the LWC Motoring Society about the scrapes and scenarios that they’ve encountered all over the planet.
The event gets underway at 7pm and is priced at £10 per person (which includes refreshments).
You don’t have to be a member of the LWC Motoring Society to join in (although membership is free). Book your place to see Bob and Joe here.
Stunning Sundown
The 1200 offers breathtaking views and some of the best are achieved by looking up.
Thanks to Assistant Deputy Head (Staff), Jeni Loud, for this cerise sunset, captured on a dog walk this week.
We love sharing pictures of the LWC campus. Please email yours to stories@lordwandsworth.org.
During the Holidays at LWC…
Half-term is only three weeks away and this October, Activate Camps are back at LWC with their JDH Next Level Hockey Camps.
There are sessions available between 9.30am and 4.30pm on Monday 26th and Tuesday 27th October for both 6-7-year-olds and for the 8-14-year-old age groups.
You can find out more and book via the Activate website.
Rugby Camp
If an oval ball is more their thing, Long Sutton Sports Co. are back at LWC during half-term with a Rugby Training Camp for 11 to 14-year-olds of all abilities.
It’s taking place between 10am and 3pm on Monday, 26th and Tuesday, 27th October at a cost of £70 for both days.
The camp aims to develop rugby skills, improve confidence and host fun, competitive games in a positive and supportive environment.
Bookings can be made by email.
Yoga Sessions
In search of a little zen after drop-off?
Yogabi run regular yoga sessions in Long Sutton Village Hall every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 8.30am.
Sessions are £15 and are payable termly.
Contact Gabi on 07803005915 for more information.
Space to Succeed
Sunday marks the beginning of World Space Week and one Sternian has a story that’s truly out of this world.
Michael Clark has just completed three months as a visiting researcher at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California and admits that he probably wouldn’t have got there, were it not for LWC.
“This journey started at LWC for me,” he explains. “That was where I really fell in love with science. I remember doing my 3rd Form project on stars and that was the beginning. I researched and presented my project and really enjoyed it. Things are just the same now; I’m carrying out research and telling a story through a paper. You can use the word NASA and space, and it all sounds complicated, but it really has the same origins as the 3rd Form project.”
At NASA, Michael has been focusing on a seismic experiment carried out on the Moon by the Apollo 14 astronauts in 1971. During the experiment, the astronauts generated three artificial Moonquakes to measure the vibrations caused.
“By studying how quickly the vibrations arrived and how they changed as they travelled, scientists could learn about the material hidden beneath the Moon’s surface,” Michael explains. “More than 50 years later, I’ve been working directly with these real recordings that were collected during the Apollo 14 mission and using modern computer simulations to recreate the experiment.”
The findings from this kind of research will prepare for future Moon missions and could even lead to NASA building a base on the Moon, having developed a better understanding of its structure.
Internships at NASA are understandably highly contested and are often given to US citizens. Michael admits that the reality of his summer’s work still hasn’t quite sunk in.
“It’s been a childhood dream for me,” he reveals. “It didn’t feel real until I got there and I went on a public tour of NASA with my mum!
“JPL sits at the base of the mountains in Southern California, in the 40-degree heat. Over 4,000 people work there. It has its own fire brigade, police force and has a footprint bigger than Disneyland. It’s still not as big as LWC’s 1200 acres, though!”
Michael has now returned to the UK to resume his PhD in Global Seismology at Cambridge University, but he isn’t ruling out a return to arguably the world’s leading space exploration agency in the future.
“Going back to NASA would be great,” he admits. “I’d like to reapply in three years in the hope that there’s a project available. Equally, I may continue in research at another university. I just want to continue to do a job that I really enjoy and which feels like I’m making an impact.”
It may be a small step for a Sternian, but it could well become one giant leap for mankind.
Read Michael’s full story here.
Key Dates
Suzanne Winn, Artist-in-Residence Finding the Light Exhibition, Prideaux Gallery
Ongoing until Sunday, 11th October
LWC Sixth Form Open Morning & Subjects Fair
9am, Saturday, 10th October
Half Term Begins
4pm, Friday 16th October
Autumn Term Resumes
Monday, 2nd November
LWC Music Department in Concert, Gavin Hall
7pm, Friday, 13th November
Exeat Weekend
4pm, Friday, 20th November
LWC Connect Networking Drinks, Covent Garden
6pm, Wednesday, 25th November
Cabaret Evening, Gavin Hall
7pm, Thursday, 3rd December
Carols & Christmas Market
6pm, Thursday, 10th December
End of Autumn Term
Noon, Friday, 11th December
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