Category: Sixth Form News
It was a busy and successful weekend for Woodbridge skiers last week, with our School ski team taking part in the ERSA Competition last Sunday, with Year 12’s Hans also taking part in the National School Snow Sports Association Competition on Friday 25 April.
Year 12’s Hans – National School Snow Sports Association Final
Having qualified at the Regional Dry Slope heats held in Ipswich earlier this year, Year 12’s Hans took part in the National School Snow Sports Association (NSSA) final in Gloucester last Friday, representing the School. A thoroughly successful day saw Hans achieve 4th fastest male overall, taking gold in the U19 category – huge congratulations Hans!
The dry slope in Gloucester, at 225 meters long, is the longest slope in England. This type of slalom course requires skill, stamina and speed. Hans is part of the Woodbridge School Ski Club and is an active member of the Suffolk Vikings Race team who meet to train and race every Saturday morning.
ERSA Ski Race
On a sunny Sunday, our racers assembled on the home slope of Ipswich and took on the fastest and slalomist racers from across the East, travelling from St Albans, Norwich, Langley, Berkhamstead as well as our local competition from the Ipswich schools.
In the morning, our junior duo of Leo and Chang from Year 6 wound their way through a challenging course of stubby gates and fast times and consistency were the outcome of a success assault. In the afternoon, our two teams of Senior School racers battled the heat, nerves and full length gates to complete a successful day for our teams.
Every racer, across the board, improved their own personal time in their second run with Year 8’s Frankie and Izzy improving by over four seconds each. Our senior Cat 4 boys team, made up of Year 10’s Maxim, Year 11’s Benjamin and the Year 12’s, Hans and Alasdair, beat off a very competitive field to finish in an excellent third place.
Another enjoyable season of racing and ski trips comes to an end, see you all back up on the Ipswich glacier in September.
The Combat Cadet Competition, which takes place at Beckingham Training Camp, is a demanding fieldcraft competition for cadets from the Army Cadet Force and Combined Cadet Force which builds on the core syllabus to test cadets’ resolve and leadership skills. Nine of our Army cadets took part this year coming away as the top CCF and taking second place overall out of 23 teams, performing excellently across all aspects of the fieldcraft tasks, this is an achievement they can all be incredibly proud of as Year 13’s Head of Contingent and captain of the Combat Cadet Team Warrant Officer Oscar W reports.
Year 13’s Oscar W
“Training for the competition started months ago, with 24 cadets trying out for the team across various afternoon sessions doing different series of tests from fitness to skills and drills. Slowly we selected down to a final team of nine cadets who all had the required fitness and varied types of skills we would need during the competition. The final team also attended a weekend training day at School.
During the competition, the team took part in many different aspects of field craft. We carried out a series of mock military scenarios, including a building assault, a casualty evacuation under fire and a two-hour long patrol in order to recce a position. Followed soon after by a 2km timed run.
At each stand, the objective had to be planned and carried out while adapting to any changes that were happening live. I would like to especially thank second in command Colour Sgt. Oliver B for his amazing help with creating and adapting plans as well as organising admin such as ammo distribution and kit checks.
The competition was a great test of everyone’s personal skills dependent on their role, from section commander, scout to rifleman and I am very proud with the personal performances of every cadet on the team.
Congratulations to the whole team: 2IC Colour Sgt Oliver B, Sgt Jack M, Cpls Ethan W & Henry C, LCpls Sam C, Arlo W, Alex B and Ben B. I would also like to thank LCpl Huw B who couldn’t make the team due to injury but assisted the Army in running one of the stands. All our hard work from the training to the weekend of competition really paid off with top CCF and second place overall.
Well done to everyone and thank you to Mr Garvie, Mr Capjon and Dr Stern who helped us with the training and made it all possible.
Since returning from half term, we have played just shy of 100 Netball matches – below is a round-up of the past few weeks:
Junior Netball
The U13As have had a season of mixed fortunes but phenomenal improvement and as the season draws to a close it seems a shame as they are on an upward trajectory. They have gelled as a group and shown fantastic commitment during practices and matches, learning all the time and finessing techniques including marked improvements in our attacking circle. A highlight was our game against Finborough where we drew in a game that was a turning point in our season, giving us some confidence. Everyone has played their part, especially when we have been down numbers due to cross country commitments and all the players should be proud of themselves. Well done.
Although results for our U13B team this side of half term are a mix of wins and losses, the team have improved hugely and are putting together some excellent passages of play. They are a side who will never give up even when faced with opposition considerably stronger than themselves and are always very supportive of each other. Their final match against Royal Hospital School this week, who they lost to marginally at the start of the Netball term, saw a convincing win showing the progress they have made both individually and as a team. Well done team.
U13Cs have progressed really well and one of the highlights has been an extremely tight match against Ipswich School, which resulted in a 12-12 draw. The girls have worked so hard all term and their season ended on a deservedly high note with a very impressive win against the opposition B team. Well done girls!
The U12As have continued their winning streak against Ipswich School, Ipswich High School, Norwich High and last week, they won the U12A league tournament, beating seven other local teams. Their stats for this season are eyewatering, and they should be super proud of themselves. They have scored 171 goals compared with only 56 against, showing their strength in both attack and defence. The team should be congratulated on their efforts; their teamwork has been impressive, along with their ability to each play several positions on court. Well done and thank you for your enthusiasm each week!
The U12B team have had impressive wins over both Ipswich School, RHS, Ipswich High and St Jo’s. A tough game against a strong Kesgrave A team resulted in a loss but the girls never once gave up the fight. They were happy to beat Kesgrave in a return match at the tournament at Farlingaye High School.
U12C all made very good progress both individually and as a team. As the season wore on, so did the confidence of the girls and their cohesion as a team. Our Games lessons were active and filled with fun drills and game play, all of which made the girls technically more able and better decision makers in matches. The squad morphed with new players joining later in the season, but they brought a new sense of fun and enjoyment of the game and we ended on a high, winning all our matches in the second half term. A big thank you to all our supporters and flexible large squad for a successful Netball term.
Inter Girls – Year 9 and 10
U14A Team – Although we have had a mixed bag of results, the girls have gone from strength to strength and have shown amazing resilience and determination when playing and wanting to improve. After a tight match against Felsted on a glorious sunny afternoon, unfortunately resulting in a loss, the girls never gave up and played out of position due to illness, they were up for their match versus Fram. Arriving in the rain, as soon as we started the sun came out and we started with a bang. Goals being scored, interceptions being made and superb teamwork, resulted in a solid win. Our last match was against Norwich High. Unfortunately, we were by far the stronger team but could not convert our shots into goals. The team worked tirelessly, making some great interceptions and picking out loose balls, but lost by two goals.
U14B Team – During the second half of term, this team has had five impressive wins against Ipswich High, RHS, Felsted, Kesgrave and Farlingaye, and their only ‘blemish’ was an agonizingly close loss to Ipswich School. This team have made impressive improvements during the season and have shown superb resilience, commitment and teamwork.
U14C Team – This team is competing for team of the season, with an incredible six-match unbeaten record, with 152 goals scored with only 55 against – Mr Davis needs deep pockets for his endless supply of winners’ donuts!
U15A Team – The team have continued their unbeaten netball term with five wins out of five this side of half term, showing their considerable strength, depth and versatility. They still have lots to learn but are making excellent progress, putting into play areas we have been working on to maximise the team’s assets. An excellent netball term, very well done.
U1B5 Team – Great wins against Felsted, RHS, Finborough and Ipswich High School (especially considering the late changes to the team due to some regular players who were flying with the RAF!). A frustrating two goal loss to East Bergholt and Kesgrave U15A teams in matches that could have gone either way especially if there had not been illness and the school’s cross country team availability.
U15C – Brilliant win vs Felsted
The U15C team have played three and won three in a season where they have all had to work hard as we have had no reserves! We had a great win against Felsted even with people playing out of position and the shooters had a stormer of a day! We played in the rain and the sunshine, and nothing deterred their efforts. Well done girls!
Senior Teams – 1st Team
This team has had a phenomenal and unbeaten season and should be so proud of what they have achieved. Trips to both Kings Ely and Norwich High resulted in strong wins and superb teamwork – applying everything we have been working on during the season. In our first match against Ipswich School earlier in the term, we won by a single goal and in our first ever Friday Night Lights match last Friday, what a game it was! We came away winner 51 – 40. The girls displayed awesome talent and ability and were phenomenal – such a joy to watch! What a superb bunch of girls who have been an utter pleasure to coach this season.
Senior 2nd and 3rd Teams
Both teams have shown determination (and humour) when faced with very tough, physical opposition in their first matches back after half term against Ipswich and Felsted. Since then, they have convincingly beaten both King’s Ely and Norwich High School.
2nd Team – With a squad of 11 have had an awesome season finishing on winning five of their seven games and with a positive goal difference of 37. They had good wins against RHS, King’s Ely, Norwich High School, and Ipswich High with a highlight being a close won match versus Framlingham College 24-22. We played a game with some U15s to give them the experience of playing in a Senior team and they fitted in perfectly! It has been great to see students from Year 12 and 11 mixing and getting to know each other and they have been a joy to teach. Well done!
Senior 4th & U16B – A great win by two goals versus Felsted for the Senior 4th team and an impressive win for the U16B team versus Farlingaye, complete what has been an exhausting but exhilarating return to the netball courts! The 4th team’s matches have all been very close, with both wins and losses, but the overriding successes has been teamwork and team spirit, with players being prepared to play any position in order to help the team! Thank you to all the support from the sidelines!
From Naomi Sanders
On a personal note, I would just like to thank all the girls who have played Netball, not only over the past year, but over the past 18 years in my role as Head of Netball. They have all been exceptional and have made my job such an enjoyable one. I would also like to personally thank all the Netball staff for their support over the years too, they have been amazing and have helped Netball at Woodbridge to go from strength to strength. Also to all the parents for their cheering from the sidelines too – we couldn’t do it without your support. Lastly, a massive thank you to Sara Richardson for all her organisation and support over the years; we would be lost without her!
Last week, more of our RAF cadets set off for RAF Wittering, ahead of flying Grob Tutors independently, under the close supervision of their assigned RAF Pilot of course!
Year 12’s Angus shares details of his own experience below:
Year 12’s Angus
As an individual and as a group, the experience of flying at RAF Wittering was truly remarkable.
Myself, Year 12’s Felix, Year 10’s Jack, and Year 9’s Sophia, Ella B, Oscar, Milo and Eva, were all able to experience flying in the Grob Tutor, a small, light, propellered aircraft used by the RAF for training purposes.
Luckily, we had clear blue skies, allowing for an immersive experience, including high gravitational turns, coupled with aerobatics. These included loop-the-loops, barrel rolls and stall-turns. What’s more, we were able to pilot the aircraft ourselves under the close supervision of our assigned RAF pilot.
Every one of us came back with a grin from ear to ear! We all had a wonderful trip had a fabulous days flying.
A huge thank you to the voluntary pilots at RAF Wittering; it was an experience I would recommend to any future cadets.
Our Boys’ Hockey season came to an end in style last week; the sun was out and our players flourished in the warming weather.
The 1st XI gave a fitting send-off to our Year 13s, as they played their last match for School. Year 13’s Alfie scored yet again from a set-piece in his last match, as he has done so many times over the years. Year 11’s Alex got the team’s second goal in a clean-sheet victory over Royal Hospital School.
The Senior Second Team also shone, playing at home, but just could not find the final touch enough times. Year 11’s Sam L did however score a cracker from a penalty corner in a one goal defeat to RHS.
A big thank you to our Year 13s who have given us so much joy and so many magic moments over the years. Well done for leaving Senior Hockey at School in a stronger position than you found it – you will all be missed. Thank you, Alfie, Bash, Finlay, Hugh, Oscar H, Luca and Xander!
Some of our Year 8 students had a very busy week, with a Football cup match, Hockey regional finals, another Hockey match and then Rugby 7s!
On Tuesday last week, our Junior 1 team did a sterling job at the East Regional Finals! The team competed against every opponent, won twice (against Bedford Modern and Orwell Park), alongside two draws (against Greshams and Chigwell). Despite just missing out on a semi-final spot, our team received many complements from opponents and those watching. True ambassadors for our school and second best placed Suffolk team.
Well done to Year 8’s Max who was voted Player-of-the-Day in a close contest.
The following day saw our Junior teams take on the strong teams from Ipswich School.
A strong start, with goals from Year 8’s Joseph and Otto, saw the Junior 1s go into half time in the lead. The second half saw a great contest continue, end to end, with both goalkeepers needing to be alert. The last five minutes proved telling, as legs and minds started to fatigue (understandably so) and Ipswich School took full advantage to score two unanswered goals in the closing stages. A final win was not to be, but it takes nothing away from top performances throughout the season. The process is what we pride ourselves on!
The Junior 2s finished their season off in style. As we have become accustomed to, Year 8’s Michael scored, as did Year 8’s Arthur and Year 7’s Ollie and Max! Year 8 goalkeeper, Olly B entertained again with fantastic saves and control of his D, on his way to a joint player-of-the-match award, shared with Michael.
Michael has also come out on top of the School’s goalscoring list, scoring 15 goals in the season. The Junior 2s won seven of their eight matches, only losing narrowly to Langley U13A! They scored 39 goals over the course of the season – unbelievable!
The Junior 3s also ended their season with a great win over Ipswich School. Year 8’s Alfie R (2) and Otis scored on the day, to take the competition for ‘team of the year’, and ‘coach of the year’, going down to the wire. The Junior 3s won six of their seven matches, scoring 32 goals in the process. Alfie was the team’s top scorer with eight goals in the season.
The Junior 4s played out another goal fest! Year 8’s Alex W scored a hattrick to take second place on the top goal scorer list for the whole school, with 11 goals in the season. More goals from Year 8’s Tom, and Year 7’s Jesse (2) and James E.
Last game of a mercurial season for the Junior 5s was a winning one! The game was always tight and Year 8’s Hexi made a last-minute save to secure the win. Well done to Year 8’s George B on scoring a brace and having a great end to the season. Year 8’s Harry was the other goal scorer on the day.
The Junior 6 team’s unbeaten run came to end sadly, the second half nearly saw one of the greatest of comebacks, but it wasn’t to be. A one-goal loss, in a match featuring nine goals, was none the less very exciting. Well played to all the boys who represented the team this season – many playing hockey for the first time. The future is bright with so much depth in our junior teams.
Our Year 9 team also ended with a great win at Harleston Magpies! Goals were scored by Henri and player-of-the-match, Frank. This team has been so committed throughout the term, with almost every player being at every practice of the term. The character, learning and fun will be remembered.
The U15B team played their last match against RHS U15A. Our players stood up to the test and proved worthy opponents.
The U15A team saved their best for last, playing the last match of the whole season on the Woodbridge School astro, and winning in style against a Senior XI from Fram College. The boys were finally on top goal scoring form, with goals from Oliver Y (2), Seb, Harry and Tom. A big thanks to each player and member of staff who contributed to memorable term of Hockey with so many successes and lots of learning!
Year 12 students travelled to Sizewell B Nuclear Power Station on Wednesday 16 March, taking in an informative tour, enabling them to see nuclear energy in action.
John shares his experience of and thoughts on the day, below.
Year 12’s John
26 enthusiastic Sixth Formers travelled to Sizewell B with Dr Law, to take a tour around the nuclear power plant. We arrived and enjoyed a presentation on how the nuclear plant operates from some friendly employees; we were also briefed on the safety procedures within the plant. We then toured around the plant in groups of five or six, I particularly enjoyed seeing the water cooling system, and was shocked to discover around three million litres of water was used per minute to help condense the steam exiting the turbines.
Another thing that I enjoyed on the trip was learning from one of the guides about the radiation in and around Sizewell B. It was encouraging to hear that within the plant the radiation level was only slightly higher than regular background radiation, and that just being in a different part of the country such as Cornwall would expose you to a higher radiation level (but still well within safe limits). This was nice to learn, as while I was aware of the safety of nuclear power plants, I didn’t know that there were such negligible effects.
Finally, it was encouraging to learn about the large economic benefit Sizewell B brings to our community – £40 million a year! Hopefully, Sizewell C will do the same in the years ahead.
In summary, I greatly enjoyed this trip, and found it very informative and exciting, and would recommend it to current Year 11s for next year.
GCSE Drama is a dynamic and creative subject, offering students the opportunity to explore the world of theatre making, acting, and performance. Combining practical skills and theoretical knowledge, the curriculum enables students to develop as directors, performers and critical thinkers.
Since 4 March, through to this Wednesday 26 March, Year 11, 12 and 13 Drama students have been busy with their practical and scripted exams in School.
Year 12 Devised Practical Examination
Our Year 12 students took their Devised Practical exam, a component during which students are assessed on their ability to create and develop ideas, communicating meaning for theatrical performance, applying theatrical skills to realise artistic intentions in live performance.
Year 11 Scripted Examination
A practical component of the exam for our Year 11 students, they were assessed on their ability to create and develop ideas in order to communicate meaning for theatrical performance. They also had to apply theatrical skills to realis artistic intentions in live performance.
Year 13 Scripted Examination
As above for Year 11, Year 13 students also took their scripted examination.
Commenting on their hard work, dedication and focus during these exams, our Head of Drama, Miss Mayes shared,
“It’s been absolutely wonderful to watch these young creatives commitment to these exams, and their enjoyment – which is such an important part of the GCSE and A level course. Their passion has been evident, as ever, and I’ve been extremely proud to not only have had the chance to guide them, but to watch their live performances which were all incredible, I felt very proud – as they should do of themselves.”
Last week was a Hockey week to be proud of! From outstanding team and individual performances, to great progress made in all matches – whether a win, draw or loss was the outcome.
Woodbridge Senior 1st XI vs New Hall 1st XI
The senior 1st XI got the week off to a good start with an entertaining and structured performance against a skillful and well drilled New Hall 1st XI. Woodbridge had a number of early chances but could not convert. Woodbridge ultimately scored the first goal of the match but New Hall came back strong with two quality team goals and individual finishes!
The second half continued in an intense fashion with players trying to get the upper hand on each other and manipulate things in their favour. Woodbridge scored to bring the scores level and Year 13’s Bash in goal had to be on top form in the closing stages to keep it so, including a diving save to his right, and see the match out for a classic draw.
The Woodbridge team may feel they missed an opportunity against this top opponent, but this was a great result, turning around a much more one side affair from last season, showing the progress our group of senior players have made. A great season to date with five wins, one draw and one loss.
The last match of the season is another showdown against RHS. More about this in next week’s report.
Our Junior Teams Had a Glorious Afternoon of Goals against RHS!
The Junior 1st team, made up of Year 8 players, was on cloud nine following the opening match of Wednesday afternoon. Things just fell into place as they prepared for the East Regional Finals.
The first half saw Woodbridge dominate but continue the trend of the season; making lots of chances but being denied by great goalkeeping. Josh opened the scoring half-way through the half, before Dex made it two just before the half time whistle. Not many things to talk about at half time, except “let’s use our chances”- and then goals followed almost every second minute.
Griff racked up a hattrick, Dex completed his hattrick, Josh got another and co-captain Otto got a brace, including a split grip volley goal he has been working on all season! Even though it was goals galore on the day, our defending trio of Joseph, Dylan and goalkeeper, Max, did their job outstandingly! Tackles, intercepts and saves made sure that the opposition didn’t get a sniff, the clean sheet making it seem more one sided than it was.
Well done to each of these players on all they have put in so far, mentally and physically, into their hockey season.
The Junior 2s would not be outdone, going one better in the goals count. The race for top scorer in the team is well and truly on, as the team continues to play entertaining Hockey, using speed and creative skills well. Some nice eliminations, passing and decision making meant RHS could not keep Woodbridge at bay. Year 7’s Jack opened the scoring and there was no looking back. Year 7’s Ollie and Max both got a hattrick of goals while Year 8’s Arthur scored a brace and Year 8’s Michael added to his growing tally of goals. Year 7’s Archie finished off a magical game and win for the team.
The Junior 3s followed a similar trend where almost every touch in the D turned to gold. Indeed an unprecedented afternoon of Hockey!
Brothers, Year 8’s Alfie (3) and Otis (2) got the bulk of the goals between them, with Year 8’s Tom and Giles scoring two and one respectively.
The Junior 4s completed the home matches against Royal Hospital School with another good victory. Woodbridge started off slowly but built into the game stringing together a series of attacks to only be denied by a good RHS defence. The first goal came from some excellent play down the right with Year 8’s Thomas slapping to take a deflection off an RHS stick into the net. RHS put together some good attacks of their own only to be turned away by some great shot stopping by Year 7 goalkeeper Harry.
After half time Woodbridge started to play more freely, moving the ball quickly proving difficult to defend against. Year 8’s Alex and Oliver both managed to get their names on the scoresheet before the final whistle.
A great win! Well done!
The Junior 5s played away, with RHS using their home advantage well. It was a slightly lackluster performance from our team, which Mr Davis will use as motivation to get the team to fire on all cylinders in their last match against Ipswich School. Year 7’s Miles put in his usual energetic play and scored yet another goal. Despite a goal and a player-of-the-match performance from Year 8’s George B, the win was not to be this time. All to play for in the last match of the season.
The mighty Junior 6s, under the excellent guidance of Mrs Winchester, continued their unbeaten run! Hard work, positivity and a desire to compete lies at the heart of their success and this match had it all. It was clear that one team wanted this more than the other and ultimately led to a victorious outcome with three-goals each for Year 7’s William and Luke, and one for Year 8’s Rufus. This is looking like ‘team-of-the-year’ stuff! Just one game to go against our nearest rivals…
U15A Display Sublime Skill Despite Narrow Defeat to Norwich
The U15A team delivered a performance of exceptional quality against Norwich School, despite a defeat. In what was undoubtedly their best display of the term, the team showcased remarkable skill and determination, leaving coaches and spectators alike impressed.
The match began with both sides displaying evenly matched play. Woodbridge’s defence worked tirelessly, consistently thwarting Norwich’s attacks and initiating swift counter-attacks. However, the elusive clinical finish proved to be the difference, and Norwich managed to secure a first-half goal.
A focused half-time team talk revitalised the Woodbridge side, who emerged with renewed vigour. The first 20 minutes of the second half saw Woodbridge dominate play, culminating in a well-deserved equaliser. Unfortunately, a deflected shot and a momentary lapse in communication as Woodbridge chased the winning goal, allowed Norwich to score two quick goals, deciding the match in their favour.
Despite the setback, Woodbridge continued to press, earning an impressive 12 short corners in the match, including one on the final whistle. After a flurry of attempts at goal Norwich managed to clear the threat and in so doing, end the match. Only converting one of our corners highlights a good area to focus on.
The team’s overall attitude and sportsmanship were exemplary, earning praise from the board umpire for their behaviour and intensity. The Player of the Match award went to Year 10 captain, Oliver Y, whose outstanding work rate and captaincy were instrumental to the team’s performance.
While the result was disappointing, the team should be immensely proud of their performance. This match demonstrated the high level of skill and commitment within the U15A squad, and they can look forward to building on this foundation in their last fixture of the season. Well played, team!
The U15B team showed great progress in their match against Norwich School. Norwich dominated the first half, peppering our defense and goal. Year 9’s Barnaby made tackle after tackle, often having multiple Norwich defenders to take care of. Year 10 goalkeeper, Frank, stood strong and made a number of great saves to keep Woodbridge within touching distance at half time, knowing if they made better choices and execute their passes better, they can get the two goals back.
The tides did indeed turn somewhat in the second half, with Woodbridge spending much more time in the opposition half and feeding their forwards much better. Year 10’s James B moving to right back brought nice urgency as well as Year 10’s Toby trying to lift the pace of our attacks. Nice rotations and leading from Year 9’s William and George led to exciting attacks and now it was the Norwich GK who had to be alert. A cracking strike on the bounce from Year 10’s James S was well saved.
A second half which I hope fills the group with confidence going into their last match. Good observations and learning from the team to make their own changes and corrections at half time, which led to a much improved overall performance, is a real positive to take away from this game.
The Army section of our CCF held their annual Minden Dinner on Wednesday evening, enjoying a delicious three course meal ahead prepared by our wonderful catering team. Traditional toasts were made to the King by one of our junior cadets, Year 9’s Bay, there were readings, extracts from notable figures such as Victoria Cross recipients, shared by our Head of Contingent Year 13’s Oscar, Year 11’s Sam C and Jack, and speeches were made by Capt Capjon as well as Year 13’s Oliver.
You can read Oliver’ speech below:
Oscar and Oliver at the Minden Dinner
Ladies and gentlemen, officers, cadets, and guests,
Thank you all for being here tonight to celebrate Minden Day. This is a special evening where we come together to remember the incredible history of the Royal Anglian Regiment, but also to celebrate what makes our CCF so unique—the people, the experiences, and the lessons we’ve learned along the way.
Being in charge of the Army section this year has been an honour. When I first joined, I never imagined I’d be standing here, giving this speech. Over the years, I’ve been through it all—getting soaked on exercises, sleep-deprived on field days, and, of course forgetting my beret. But through it all, the CCF has been an incredible journey. It’s about more than just training—it’s about building confidence, overcoming challenges, and making friends who, at some point, you will have to share a basha with.
We’ve all had moments we’ll never forget— clearing buildings, and spending entire exercises wondering when we’d finally get to eat. But that’s what makes the CCF special: the shared experiences, the teamwork, and the fact that, no matter how bad the weather is we will always come out of it stronger.
Minden Day is about remembering the bravery of those who fought in 1759, but it’s also about recognising the people who keep that spirit alive today. And who better to represent us than our very own Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet, Oscar? It’s a huge achievement, and we’re all incredibly proud of him. But let’s be honest—when he turned up in his Number 2s, I thought Dad’s Army had been brought back for a reunion special. I was just waiting for him to start shouting, “Don’t panic!”.
Now, speaking of people who keep us in check, I have to say a huge thank you to Mr. Stollery, Mr Capjon, and Mr. Garvie. They put in countless hours behind the scenes, making sure we actually get to do all the things we enjoy. Whether it’s planning exercises, organising events, or reminding us that, yes, our uniform does include a beret, they keep this section running behind the scenes .
Mr. Garvie, of course, has his own approach to things. Whether it’s his barefoot shoes or walking around school with no shoes at all, he’s very much in tune with nature.
And tonight is particularly special because it’s Mr. Stollery’s birthday! Now, I won’t say how old he is, but I’m fairly certain when he first joined the Army, they were still issuing swords and horses.
But beyond the jokes, tonight is about more than just our own section. The Royal Anglian Regiment has a long history of excellence, and as cadets, we are privileged to wear their cap badge. Their ethos speaks of teamwork, trust, and striving for excellence—values that we, as cadets embody. Whether we’re training for competitions, learning new skills, or just helping each other through a tough exercise, we are part of something much bigger.
So, as we look to the future, I hope the younger cadets take everything in and realise that the best moments are still ahead! You’ll face challenges, you’ll make mistakes, and you’ll probably forget your beret at some point—but you’ll also have some of the best experiences of your life.
Ladies and gentlemen, please be upstanding for a toast to the Royal Anglian Regiment…
‘The Royal Anglian Regiment!’
Last Saturday, athletes from Woodbridge School represented Suffolk schools at the English Schools in Sussex, the final Cross Country fixture of the winter. This being the third race for some of the runners in three consecutive weekends due to the rescheduled nationals cup date from last December; a real test for the best especially for those who would be competing in their first ever English schools.
The ESAA National Cross-Country championship is the most eagerly anticipated event of the winter for young athletes. It brings together the best athletes in each of the 46 counties in England to compete for the honour of being the best in the country. It is often hard to put into context but a top 100 finish can be the equivalent to significantly higher up in other national events. The starts are super-fast and the competition is the best there is for their age groups in England.
Four students recorded top 100 finishes and were amongst the first home for their county. Year 9’s Alice was 63rd and Year 8’s India J 100th in the junior girls race, Year 10’s Romilly 71st in the inter girls category and Year 8’s Dexter 23rd in the junior boys race.
Special mentions go to the first two home for Suffolk in their age groups. Alice and Dexter. Alice had the absolute race of her season! She has had a brilliant shift in mindset in her training to marry up to her talents and has committed to the cause week in week out. A well-deserved breakthrough race!
Dexter who brought it home for Suffolk once again, put the icing on the cake for a phenomenal winter of racing, national titles and a top 23 in his first ever English Schools Cross Country. Huge congratulations to them both.
We cannot forget to acknowledge all of the individual athletes who qualified for this high calibre race (please see mentioned below). Every single one of them has worked incredibly hard and should be extremely proud of unparalleled achievements both as individuals and more importantly as a team this winter. They will all now enjoy a well-earned rest and recovery as they take a mid-season break before they enter their track season. A final round of applause for them all as it is now over and out for another brilliant cross country season by Woodbridge School.
Here is a full summary of the Woodbridge School athletes results (context being up to 340 athletes in each race, once again, as we mentioned last week all good enough to be representing their county):
Junior Girls:
- 63rd – Year 9’s Alice
- 100th – Year 8’s India J
- 141st – Year 8’s Alexandra
Junior Boys:
- 23rd – Year 8’s Dexter
- 222nd – Year 9’s Hamish
Inter Girls:
- 71st – Year 10’s Romilly
Senior Boys: Suffolk Team :
- 138th – Year 13’s Iwan
Once again a massive thank you to all of you who follow and support their journey at these events and to all parents travelling up for the weekend to help.