Category: Senior School News
Last Friday was our first Field Day of the year at School, and all students took part in a range of co-curricular activities throughout the day, with students in Years 7 and 8 taking part in morning activities. Field Day offers our students the chance to put down pens and computers and spend time with one another as a community.
The variety of activities taking place in School was vast. From Mandarin workshops, paintballing, self-defence and public speaking, to aero balling, setting up bashas in a harbour, patrolling, ambushing, learning first aid and Chinese drumming.
This day and these activities boost confidence, encourage interaction with one another and extend social networks, providing the opportunity to learn and experience new skills and abilities, as well as developing new interests along the way. This is vital in order to offer students and staff the chance to have fun and relax away from the pressure of School work, and is an important part of our curriculum.
Alongside all of these activities our Army and Royal Navy Combined Cadet Force (CCF) also went out on overnights, and you can read about these and all of the other activities below.
CCF RAF
CCF RAF cadets spent the day taking part in aerotag, paintballing and Lazer Quest, whilst also enjoying a full day in the range, shooting, testing themselves on leadership tasks and even had the opportunity to have a go at interactive flight simulation.
CCF Army
CCF Army cadets form Years 10, 11 and 12 deployed to RAF Barnham training area, where they stayed overnight for their Field Day exercise. On arrival cadets set up the bashas to sleep under and cooked their evening meal from their ration packs. During the evening they conducted ambushes using blank ammunition. Friday saw the Year 9 cadets go through a rota of stands: defensive position, navigation, patrol contact drills and observation. Despite the forecast there was only heavy rain during the night when the cadets were all tucked up nice and dry under their bashas.
CCF Royal Navy
The Royal Navy Section of the CCF spent a fascinating field day at Chatham. The cadets spent the night in bunks on board HMS Cavalier, a World War II destroyer and one-time fastest ship in the fleet, before a day exploring the historic dockyard. Here, amongst other things, they were dwarfed by the UK’s only remaining Polaris missile, squeezed through the length of a Royal Navy submarine, made a length of rope in Europe’s longest brick building, and were complimented on the excellence of their drill.
Year 7
Learning about Taichi and Chinese drumming, as well as Chinese calligraphy, Year 7 students were treated to a morning of Mandarin in School. It was a great opportunity for students to learn about Chinese culture outside usual classroom settings, which forms an important part of their language study.
Year 8
Year 8’s Field Day consisted of three invaluable and interactive skills: first aid, self-defence and public speaking. School’s Matron was kind enough to give up her time to talk to students about and deliver first aid training, while Smart Dojos came into School to explain and demonstrate self-defence techniques with students. Mrs Lockwood, our Head of LAMDA spent time sharing tips and suggestions for public speaking.
Year 9 Army and RAF visit to Duxford
Our Year 9 Army and RAF CCF cadets visited Duxford Air Museum as part of their Field Day. They went to the American Hangar, Land Warfare, which is dedicated to the Royal Anglian Regiment, whose cap badge we wear, and spent the day discovering iconic aircraft, historical objects and real-life war stories. Students also got the chance to step onboard a Concorde as well as being treated to aircraft actually flying around the site on the day.
With news of last Thursday’s Suffolk Schools Cross Country Trial and this week’s English Schools Cross Country Cup, you can read about the athletes and their exceptional performances in our report.
Suffolk Schools Cross Country Trial
On Thursday 11 October 52 Woodbridge School athletes, from both the Senior School and the Prep, travelled to RHS for the first Suffolk Schools Cross Country trial., and it proved to be another day to be extremely proud of our young athletes.
Their performances were exceptional and full results (of the top 50 in each category) can be seen at www.suffolkschoolsathletics.info.
Results are on the cross country tab.
In terms of a highlight summary, here is the Woodbridge School dashboard:
With up to 200 athletes in some races, 40 of our athletes qualified for the final trial in January (hosted by Woodbridge School) by finishing in the top 50 in their race. Although largely an individual event, we had some spectacular team results with three wins and a third from over 35 schools in our races. Our athletes won medals for individual top three places in 6 of the 8 races, winning 9 of the 24 medals overall:
Gold Medal Winners:
Year 7’s India (Minors Year 6 & 7)
Year 7’s Josh (Minors Year 6 & 7)
Year 13’s Henry (Seniors Year 12 & 13)
Silver Medal Winners:
Year 7’s Ella (Minors Year 6 & 7)
Year 7’s Dex (Minors Year 6 & 7)
Year 9s Romilly (Juniors Year 8 & 9)
Year 8’s Digby (Juniors Year 8 & 9)
Year 11’s Angus (Inters Year 10 & 11)
Bronze Medal Winner:
Year 7’s Alexandra (Minors Year 6 & 7)
Races of note were:
- The Minor Girls, where Woodbridge School had an unprecedented 1-2-3-4 across the line and 8 in the top 21.
- Not to be outdone Minor Boys had 6 in the top 10 and 8 in 22.
- Junior Girls had 4 in the top 10 and 6 in 21.
Remember this is from up to 200 athletes in a race!
Ahead of the final trial in January, Woodbridge School still has over 20 athletes in contention for County selection and around seven fighting for the right to compete at English Schools in Pontefract in March.
Congratulations to every athlete and a huge thank you to staff and parents for their support on the day.
English Schools Cross Country Cup
On Tuesday 17 October, all five of our age group cross country teams that entered the English Schools Cross Country Cup competed in the County Round at Farlingaye. With the top three teams in each race progressing to Regionals, we are excited to report that all five teams qualified with four wins and a second.
We had individual winners in three of those races with Year 8’s Digby winning Junior Boys, Year 9’s Romilly winning Inter Girls and year 13’s Henry winning Senior Boys .
This time it was the turn of the Junior Boys to shine, with our team of four scorers crossing the line with a 1-2-3-4, matching the Minor Girls achievement at Suffolk Schools last week.
Congratulations to every athlete and good luck to our teams racing Regionals at Southend High School for Boys in Essex on Saturday 11 November.
Added excitement this year of course, as Woodbridge School are to host the 42nd English Schools Cross Country Cup Final on Saturday 02 December!
Last week, our first Scholarship and Enrichment workshop of the School year took place for students from Year 10 and above. The students thoroughly enjoyed themselves, spending time looking at interesting and useful ways of exploring text. Hear about the workshop from two students who attended and enjoyed the workshop, Year 10’s Jack and Sam.
Jack, Year 10
On Monday 9 October I had the pleasure of attending a vocal masterclass in the Seckford Theatre for drama scholar and enrichment students. This was led by Mrs Lockwood, and involved us exploring the principles of resonance, pitch and pace when reading a script.
We explored how to develop our use of projection through diaphragm breathing and vocal warmups; allowing us to control our voice and breath more precisely, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Through different exercises we focused on how to achieve emphasis when speaking, for example as five people delivered a section of script the rest sat around them with their eyes closed, repeating the words they felt most resonated with them. These truly showed us how our words affect the audience, especially with Mrs Lockwood’s choice of speech, ‘Fog Everywhere’ from Charles Dickens’ Bleak House. Overall, it was a very good learning experience and I felt I learnt how to project, enunciate and engage with the audience when speaking.
Sam, Year 10
Along with fellow drama enthusiasts, I had the privilege of participating in Mrs. Lockwood’s vocal masterclass on Monday 9 October. This session was a continuation of the three workshops held the previous academic year.
The focus of this workshop was on various aspects of speech and their significance, additionally, we were introduced to new breathing techniques designed to alleviate tension. A notable exercise during the class involved reading a speech without using any vocal expression. This exercise not only highlighted the importance of expression in a speech but also prompted us to consider how best to convey each line in a way that complemented the next.
With match reports from our U12B, U13 and 1ST XV team, including a three team tournament and a triangular fixture, Mr Gage, Head of Rugby shares details of the players and their games.
Woodbridge U12A vs St Faiths & Woodbridge U12A vs Culford
This was a really well contested triangular fixture, played in an excellent spirit by well-matched teams. Our first match, against St Faith’s ended in a draw, although we felt that we certainly should have won it based on balance of play, a gentle reminder that good play will still always require an end product in order to come out victorious. Remembering to try and score as a team rather than as an individual was the biggest takeaway.
The second game against Culford was a far more complete performance, solid in defence and dominant in the ruck, this allowed us plenty of the ball and we created a lovely variety of scoring opportunities through clever kicks, sniping runs and attacking with width that resulted in four unanswered tries. Particular highlights across the games came from Giles, showing great vision and composure both when scoring and setting up others. A good day at the office for the boys and plenty of evidence of their continued learning and development as a group. Well done to all involved.
Woodbridge U12A vs Orwell Park
This was a game where we were aiming for both performance and result and I am delighted to say we achieved both. Although disappointed with the few tries we conceded, being punished for a lack of line speed resulting in a disjointed defence and ultimately missed tackles, we scored a number of excellent tries ourselves. Having reached half time with a narrow lead we managed to go on and ultimately make the result a comfortable win. I was delighted to see our ability to score in different ways and particularly seeing the team show an awareness of their positioning on the field and how to manage the game in order to create space and opportunity. Putting into play what we had worked on in practice was very satisfying and the boys deserve real credit for this. Tries for Dexter, Charlie, Alfie, Thomas, Toby and Giles.
Woodbridge U12B vs St Faith’s
The first match of the three team tournament was an absolute cracker. Both teams expressed themselves in attack and were solid in defence. The first real challenge Woodbridge have come up against all year and we managed to be up to it. With the game hanging in the balance with Woodbridge one try up with seconds to play, St Faith’s went for the draw but Woodbridge held firm and won the ball back to score a break away try to secure a tightly fought game.
Woodbridge U12B vs Culford
Culford were up next and what a game we had in store. The crowd didn’t think things could get any closer than the first game but with Woodbridge going three tries up in the first half to no reply from Culford, it looked like the game was over. A resurgent second half performance from Culford saw the game going into the dying seconds with Woodbridge one try up and on their own try line defending. Some incredible tackles were up to the challenge of stopping Culford getting over the line, and the disciplined defence was too much, forcing the error from Culford. An amazing game played by both sides. All the Woodbridge players agreed at the end that the tightly fought games meant it has been the best and most enjoyable week of rugby so far.
Woodbridge U13 vs Culford
Woodbridge travelled to Culford for a triangular fixture, which proved to be a challenging but great afternoon of rugby. Woodbridge faced a strong Culford side who scored a couple of quick tries early on. Woodbridge settled into the game defending some great Culford attacks turning the ball over for a break and some great link up play from Oscar D and Noah to open the scoring. The scoring didn’t stop there, with both teams playing some great flowing rugby where the skills were on show, and the defences were tested; with Culford just taking the win in the first game.
Woodbridge U13 vs St Faith’s
The second game versus St Faith’s was also a close encounter. St Faith’s end to end attacking rugby made for an enjoyable game to watch; they took the lead only to be snuffled out by a hattrick of try’s from Digby to put Woodbridge into the lead. St Faiths played to the final whistle and managed to clinch a try in the final play of the game. Finishing four tries each. A great afternoon of rugby from the U13’s, showing off what they have been learning in training, under heavy pressure from an opposition defense. Well done to the U13’s
Woodbridge 1st XV vs Farlingaye
This fixture was an exciting encounter against the neighbours, which was nothing short of physicality, attacking rugby, tries and great defensive efforts. The first try didn’t come until 15 minutes into the game after some heavy forward play from Farlingaye. Woodbridge had a couple of opportunities to even the score out after Year 13’s Abdhulla and James made some breaks, only to be tackled short of the line. Farlingaye managed to score one more before half time going in two tries up. Woodbridge came out fighting in the second half putting on a display for the big crowd from both schools who came to watch. Their persistence paid off as Woodbridge managed to get a try of their own. Woodbridge continue to develop week on week and this is evident in the performances they produce on the field. A great performance by the 1st XV, well done.
On Monday, A level Drama and Theatre Studies students, alongside scholars from Years 10 and 11, took part in a Frantic Assembly workshop in School. Year 13’s Florence reports on the workshop, and we’ll share more details of the students’ theatre trip to The Mercury to see the play after half term.
Year 13’s Florence
On Monday, A level Drama and Theatre Studies students, alongside scholars from Years 10 and 11, were privileged to participate in a Frantic Assembly workshop, kindly provided for us by the Drama department.
The workshop was over the course of two hours and our work was centred around Frantic Assembly’s new adaptation of Kafka’s Metamorphosis. We participated in a range of different activities, such as learning how to do lifts, before later incorporating these into a devised sequence. We also worked in groups using Frantic Assembly’s ‘Building Block’ technique to begin developing a story, using stylised movement without dialogue, which everyone greatly enjoyed.
Working with Frantic Assembly helped us develop skills in physical theatre movement, exposing us to tools and techniques which can later be incorporated into our own pieces; a key part of our GCSE and A level exams.
It was an eye-opening experience, and, as a Year 13 studying Metamorphosis, it served a great purpose in deepening my understanding of the play, alongside Frantic Assembly’s devising and performing style.
It has been a full on first half term for football at Woodbridge School and it seems to get busier week on week! We have been delighted with students taking in part in games lessons, lunchtime, after School practices and our matches. Teams have been competing in friendlies, County Cup and National Cup matches and there is plenty more to come with fixtures booked in after half term for teams yet to play, including what will be our first ever girls’ football matches. Read more in our reports from Mr Pruden, Head of Sport, Health and Fitness.
Woodbridge U12s
This is a group who have really impressed so far, showing an excellent willingness to learn and implement our style of play. Competition for places is fierce and there is real strength in depth. We started the season playing a couple of friendly matches at Farlingaye. I think first game nerves took hold, in the A team game we didn’t do ourselves justice and were heavily beaten, the Bs however, played very nicely to win an enjoyable small sided match. Next up was an ESFA Small Schools Trophy match at Ipswich High School, on a difficult pitch we started badly by conceding a quick goal but we soon found our composure to deservedly win a competitive match, Otis scoring a hat-trick.
Next up was a match against Thomas Mills in the ESFA Playstation Cup, a competition entered by over 500 schools. We played well but struggled for precision in the final third and spurned a number of excellent opportunities to score. 1-1 at full time and no further goals after extra time, the game went to penalties! I must say, the boys showed remarkable composure to score all of their penalties and Joseph was the hero with his penalty save sending us deservedly through to the next round.
The B team played a fabulous fixture against St Jo’s with both coaches commenting on the quality of play and the application of both sets of players. We ended up winning by the odd goal in nine, but the most important aspect of this game was seeing the pride of our pupils in representing the school and the joy and ability that shone throughout.
Woodbridge U13s
This team play in a small league against other independent schools in the region with the players being selected from both Years 7 and 8. The opening game against Culford saw a magnificent half of football where the boys did their utmost to implement everything they had been working on and were rewarded with three goals, the first being a stunning free-kick from Oscar W. A strong response from Culford and influx of Woodbridge nerves saw the game level with time drawing to a close, only for Oscar to grab his second goal to secure a last minute victory and some very excitable celebrations.
A second match against St Jo’s saw another excellent win, this time rather more comfortably achieved with some lovely football being played.
Thomas Mills were the opposition for our ESFA Cup second round match (we received a bye through round one). Not knowing what to expect and competition rules only allowing for players from Year 8, the boys started strongly and pushed hard for the advantage. This duly came with a flurry of goals before halftime. In the end we achieved a very comfortable victory, brilliant to get through to the third round where a much sterner test awaits but also lovely to see some new faces play their first match and be so well supported and encouraged by their teammates. Also the opposition getting their first goal of the season so far was a joy to behold and sent everyone home happy.
Woodbridge U15s
These also play in a similar league set up. They have played well in both their opening matches against Culford and St Jo’s but lost both. St Jo’s were a class above and out of sight at half time but our second half resilience and ability to dig deep and perform better does bode well. The Culford game was very different, far from outclassed we were disappointed to not get at least a draw but ultimately our inexperience as a group probably cost us.
First knockout action of the season came against Ormiston Endeavour in the Suffolk County Schools FA Cup. This was a competitive, hard fought game that reached full time with scores even, our goal coming from Year 9’s Oli Y. The rules of the competition state the game goes straight to penalties and as with the U12’s earlier on, the boys showed great nerve and skill to put away their penalties and come away victorious following decisive saves from Year 10’s Ed S.
Woodbridge U18s
There is great promise within this group although they don’t quite believe it yet! A comfortable win against RHS started the season well and set us up nicely to go to Thomas Mills in the ESFA Cup, with a certain Ed Sheeran watching on the home side went two goals ahead but the boys got the job done, winning what was not the most enjoyable of games with a few goals to spare. Year 13’s Barney scoring an absolute stunner! The next round saw a very local derby against Farlingaye. We were probably our own worst enemy, gifting a couple of goals and missing some excellent chances of our own we allowed Farlingaye to get away and we were never able to recover the momentum, losing a game in which we could have been far more competitive.
It has been a similar story in the league against Culford and St Jo’s. The Culford game was a great spectacle, played on a wonderful surface on Tollers (great credit to the ground staff for the pitches produced this year) the crowd were treated to a really high quality exhibition of schools’ football with the battle in midfield a real joy to behold. Shan, Tolly and Josh T showing some lovely technical ability. Ultimately though we lost a game by a couple of goals that we could easily have won by the same margin.
Travelling away to St Jo’s was a very similar story but with greatly reduced quality! A sluggish start and perhaps a lack of belief saw us go behind before we upped our game and got back into it with a deserved goal for Jonjo. He is still dreaming about the one that got away though, a genuine overhead bicycle kick from the edge of the area that hit the crossbar. Despite the improvement we then drifted to defeat in a game that needed to be taken by the scruff of the neck. Next steps for this group are to find the mentality to win, particularly from challenging positions, they most definitely have the capacity to do this and we are excited by the challenge of supporting them to achieve it.
Next half term will see more 1st XI and B team matches which will be great to see.
Having recently shared interviews from cast members of Jack Absolute Flies Again, our Sixth Form Production being performed on Wednesday 15 and Thursday 16 November, we caught up with more students in rehearsals this week. A modern adaptation of a restoration comedy, our young actors will take audiences into a wartime comedy which sees the return of Pilot Officer Jack Absolute to his fearless Hurricane squadron after an aerial dog fight. There he is shocked to find his old flame is on the base, and he quickly sets his sights on winning her heart.
Brian Coventry, Played by Year 12’s Finlay
Having had roles in A Monster Calls and Shakespeare On The Lawn, Finlay is no stranger to the stage. Playing the role of Brian Coventry an Intelligence Officer with a larger than life, colourful and quirky personality! Finlay said,
“He’s a fun character to play, I love how he’s got to be in charge of everything, of the rabble – but he somehow never really does. He interacts with every character in some way so it means I’m on and off the stage and in and out of scenes, he’s a lively one to play.”
He continued,
“I feel nervously excited about the performance, but only because I can’t wait to see it all come together.”
Roy Faulkland, Played by Year 12’s James
Playing the part of a Hurricane pilot who is best friends with Jack Absolute himself, James is having lots of fun rehearsing and really enjoying the character he’s playing. He explained,
“It’s a massive change to my most recent role in A Monster Calls, in the best possible way it’s like having two hours with your friends to have fun on stage! It’s a very ensemble based piece of theatre, with big characters personality-wise.”
He continued,
“The rehearsals are going great, it’s nice to be performing in a lighter production, and to not feel so emotionally drained by the script and characters – in the best possible way. Looking ahead to the performances, my nerves are mostly down to hoping that the audience engages and enjoys the comedy as much as we do.”
Tony Sheridan, Played by Year 13’s Rufus
Having played Paris in last year’s Sixth Form production of Romeo and Juliet, Rufus is used to fast-paced action, as he’s mostly spent time on stage performing choreographed fight scenes. Definitely an advantage for this play which moves swiftly from one part to the next and is full of quick wit. Explaining his character he said,
“Tony Sheridan is a dashing young man, poet, fighter and lover – he literally says this about himself in the play. He’s a smart character that’s been lots of fun to play in rehearsals and I’m looking forward to the audience meeting him.”
He also said,
“It’s a great comedy and I’m having so much fun in rehearsals, it’s lovely to be able to let your own sense of humour out on stage – in this light hearted but ridiculous comedy.”
Julia Melville, Played by Year 13’s Ellie
Explaining that she feels the performance will be a ‘brilliant showcase of everything we have to offer’, Ellie explained,
“This is a real opportunity for people to come together and laugh, at the characters and at the story – as I think my fellow actors have explained, it’s simply slapstick ridiculous – in the best possible way! My character is so much fun to play, she and Roy are classic lovers with some brilliant scenes – I think the audience will root for them, they’re crazy, but really sweet too.”
Tickets are now on sale for Jack Absolute Flies Again, available here. Please be aware, the performances are recommended for ages 12 and above.
Another busy week of hockey last week, with matches for our 1st, U15A, U15B, and Junior 1, 2, 3 and 4 teams. Our match reports hold details of fixtures, including the County Cup, teams and players.
Woodbridge 1st team vs Wymondham
Match report by team coach, Mrs Rix
The 1st team started their open season against Wymondham College. Still missing our captain, Chloe, the team was led by Year 13’s Steph and Year 12’s Millie. Woodbridge started the stronger team, stringing passes together and getting into good attacking areas. Unfortunately, this good possession and confidence could not be converted into clear chances. Wymondham got into the game and things went end to end. Year 12’s Freya in goal made a few good saves in the nine-yard area but Wymondham finally got one in from close range. In the second half we played better and with more confidence, with some good transfer play in the midfield and year 11’s Lara making threatening runs through the middle. However, our final pass just lacked the accuracy required or we forced passes down a channel too much meant we could not build enough real pressure to convert into goals. Wymondham managed to score another field goal which spurred Woodbridge on to be more attacking; a few chances were created with Year 11’s Lara, Year 12’s Georgie getting shots off and Year 12’s Millie and Sophia combining well up the right hand side. Year 12’s Charlotte at central defence had another good game, stepping up well and Year 12’s Rose and Year 13’s Ada were assertive at outside defence. A frustrating third goal was conceded at a penalty corner close to the end of the game. Some training ground time will put this right for next time. Well done to each player who represented the team and worked very hard.
Woodbridge U15A vs Fram U15 Development team
Match report by team coach, Mrs Johnson
On an unseasonably warm Tuesday evening our U15A team took on an U15 development team from Fram college. Both teams featured Year 10 and year 9 students. The crowd support on the side of the pitch was great and the match didn’t disappoint. A great display of teamwork with the girls playing out of positions at times, led to a sound victory. Year 10’s Freya kept goal brilliantly, clearing to the sides and making sure nothing went past her (even though the ball hit the post at one point in a goal mouth scuffle!) Great goals by year 10’s Lily (a rebound from a PC), two for Year 10’s Charlie, and one for Year 10’s Bea sealed the victory! Well done and thanks to all the support from the sidelines and Mr Brous for umpiring!
Woodbridge U15A matches vs Norwich High School for Girls
Match report by team coach, Mrs Johnson
During games lessons later in the week the team played against Norwich High School at Magpies. After a bit of a journey we woke up during our warm-up and hit the ground running. With the majority of the possession we played with determination and drive and scored our first goal within the first seven minutes from Bea; Aurelia put away an excellent deflection from a penalty corner and we went into half time 2-0 up. A change of ends brought their goalie alive and if it wasn’t for her we would have scored many more goals but were thankfully gave ourselves more of a cushion with a penalty corner finish from Charlie. Norwich scored close to the end of the game we managed to defend a number of penalty corners well to keep the lead intact. Highlights from the game were our play up the right of the pitch and better communication amongst our team. Well done!! Freya’s save with her glove was the save of the afternoon!
Woodbridge U15B hockey
Match report by Team coach Mrs Pilkington
The U15B team had a very exciting encounter against Norwich High School for Girls. The fixture was split in to four quarters with rolling subs. The Woodbridge girls were enthusiastic from the start testing the Norwich HS defence straight away. The play was very even; Woodbridge scored first with a clean strike from Ellie, with Norwich HS coming straight back with a goal of their own. Margot scored a second at the end of the first quarter. Going into the second quarter Norwich HS equalized again but Ellie struck home once more to take the lead, one which was maintained for the rest of the match. In the third quarter Evie battled her way into the circle and converted an excellent shot at goal. Finally, a fifth goal was scored thanks to fresh legs and the determination of Issy. A well-deserved result from a very enthusiastic team!
Woodbridge Junior 1 vs Fram
Match report by Team coach Mrs Rix
Wednesday saw us being treated to some fantastic away matches against Fram College, beginning with the Junior 1 team who played a remarkable match against a very strong Fram team. The players quickly adjusted to a somewhat different press to try nullify Fram’s ‘three at the back’. The team worked endlessly to keep the opposition at bay, and indeed Year 8’s Bay in goal was a super star. Say no more! Simply outstanding. Play was intense and each player had to be at their best to control the ball, play it up the pitch and create several chances of our own. The Fram GK made some important saves as the last ten minutes approach, all still square. With seven minutes to go, one third phase play snuck through the defences. Woodbridge gave it their all, even playing with seven outfield players but Fram held firm for the narrowest of wins. Bay was our undisputed player of the match! Thanks to all who supported the game, it was truly one for the memory banks!
Woodbridge Junior 2 vs Fram
The Junior 2s were disappointed with a frustrating defeat, despite being the better team. Woodbridge started brightly scoring early, but Fram came straight back against the run of play. Woodbridge went ahead again and kept their lead into half time. Three goals in quick succession early in the second half knocked the wind out of the Woodbridge sails. Woodbridge kept fighting and managed to regain momentum, being frustrated but good saves to deny them more goals. Woodbridge did ultimately have the last say to score a bit of a consolation goal to bring the scores close together. Well done to all who played their part in an end-to-end, high-scoring and exciting game. Well done to goal scorer and player of the match, Year 8’s Lottie and Charlie on scoring a brace.
Woodbridge Junior 3 vs Fram
Match report by Team coach Miss Hinton
Another excellent display from a strong and confident Junior 3 team. A brilliant team effort that started with great clearances from keeper Year 7’s Clem, defenders keeping the ball out of the middle of the pitch and using the width to play around the opposition, well marshalled by Year 8’s Abigail C and fellow Year 8’s Abigail N. The solid defence allowed the midfield to play with more freedom and wide midfielders Year 7’s Evie, Rebecca and Kirsty worked tirelessly to support the forwards and set up a number of goals, two for Year 8’s Grace and one for Year 7’s Imogen . The driving force and opposition’s player of the match, Year 8’s Eirann kept bulldozing her way through the centre and was rewarded time and again with a handful (literally five!) goals herself. Unbeaten so far, a wonderful follow up match!
Woodbridge Junior 4 vs Fram
Match report by Team coach Miss Sanders
The Junior 4s played another strong and successful game last week. Passing the ball effectively and defending nearly every ball with super tackles, they dominated their opposition from start to finish. Our forwards fought hard in our attacking D and had numerous shots on goal, including deflections, and our midfielders and defence, including our two goal keepers, Year 8’s Freya and Year 7’s Bea kept a clean sheet. Great teamwork by all – well done! Well done to Year 8’s Alice on a Player of the match performance and two goals, and fellow goal scorers, Year 8’s Marina and Year 7’s Sienna.
Woodbridge Junior 1s at the County Cup Friday 6 October
Match report by Mrs Rix
A busy hockey week was ended by yet another cup event; this time the England Hockey U13 Suffolk Cup. Woodbridge played five pool games; in one of the highest quality county cups in many years. All matches were closely contested and there was no runaway best team all day. Woodbridge started well against Old Buckenham Hall, and did everything right but score. Year 8’s Bay was again on top form, making two telling saves – one stick saves – likely the save of the day. A draw was a solid start.
Next was a defeat against Fram but not a match we were targeting. Perhaps the match against Barnardiston saw Woodbridge rue previously missed opportunities and they just could not quite get going… another draw. Starting to fire properly again against Ipswich High school, Woodbridge went ahead and looked confident to see the match out. However, a fantastic bit of play up the right and a fantastic deflection in front of goal saw the High School draw level. So frustrating but a goal worthy of getting a point out of the match.
Playing for pride and still focussing on getting better all the time, Woodbridge had nothing to lose against Culford. We dominated and got the win we deserved all day. Three draws, one loss and one win from five matches saw us finish 3rd in the pool of six. Not too shabby but this team is hungry for more and I am sure there is much for to come from a very talented bunch over the next half a decade.
Thanks to all the parents who supported us so well. Well done to Year 8’s Annabelle and Amelie for superb leadership during the day. Congrats to Year 7’s Jasmine making her Junior 1 debut, and thanks very much to Mr Pineo for umpiring all morning.
Our U12B, U13 and U14 rugby teams have been out in force playing a tournament, a match and a derby. Our match reports hold details and information about our players and those matches.
Woodbridge U12B vs Fram
A spontaneous three-team tournament was in order at Framlingham Prep School; two Woodbridge teams and one Fram Prep team. The glorious sunshine shone down on a festival of strong defensive rugby and tries galore. Woodbridge Red Team started with an emphatic performance against Fram scoring numerous tries and keeping Fram from scoring. Next up the two Woodbridge sides met and in a frantic 16-minute game of rugby, only two tries were scored, both to Woodbridge Reds. The most pleasing part of the game was how both defences stood up to some fine passing and running skills. Woodbridge Blue team got their chance to get on the scoresheet against a rejuvenated Fram team scoring five tries to Fram’s two. Well done to all involved in a fun day of rugby!
Woodbridge U13 vs Fram
The U13s travelled to Fram Prep School to take part in a game which tested the boys both physically and skilfully. Woodbridge started strong putting together multiple attacks which broke the Framlingham defence only to be snuffled by some good defence close to the Fram try line. Woodbridge continued to apply the pressure and so great running lines from Digby, Oscar W, Jacob, Noah and Frank, soon saw Woodbridge take the lead. After half time Fram sparked some attacks of their own really testing the defence of Woodbridge, breaking through the gain line and making the boys scramble in defence and on one occasion Fram capitalised to open their scoring. Woodbridge responded well by scoring a few more tries of their own with some big carries from Seth, Jamie and Oscar D to grind out a good win against a good Fram. A great afternoon of rugby. Well done to the U13s.
Woodbridge U14 vs Farlingaye
The Woodbridge derby between Woodbridge School and Farlingaye lived up to the high expectations with what was a closely fought encounter. Woodbridge managed to keep Farlingaye from scoring in the first half with some courageous defending and used some direct hard running to score three tries. The second half started frantically and Farlingaye got the upper hand scoring two well worked tries to bring scores close. This was a pivotal moment in the game where a lesser side would have capitulated, not Woodbridge. Managing to get a grip back on the game Woodbridge scored more tries to put the game out of sight. Well done to try scorers Zachary, Liam, Oliver Y and Oscar. A fantastic game and spectacle for the loyal spectators to see.
Our netball report holds details of our U14 and U16 teams who secured a place at the County round of the National Schools’ Netball tournament earlier this week, as well as news of our U19 team’s tournament matches.
Woodbridge U14s secure place at County round
Massive congratulations to the U14 Netball team who secured a place at the County round of the National Schools’ Netball tournament earlier this week after being undefeated. They started the afternoon with strong performances against RHS and Ipswich High School where they came away with two wins, followed by a tough match against Farlingaye, who made the girls work hard, but again, after some superb defending all the way down the court and shooting, we won. Our next three games were against East Bergholt, Ipswich School and St Jo’s. Again, the girls put on extremely strong performances and came away with another three wins. They definitely rose to the challenge against St Jo’s who put pressure on our shooters in the first half of the game to try and keep them away from the circle, but we quickly adapted our play in the second half to counteract this pressure and again, we were successful.
Playing six matches on the bounce without a break was always going to be tiring for the team, but every single player, played with the utmost grit, determination, and desire to succeed – something they should be extremely proud of. Various combinations enabled players to try out different positions and to give our centre court a much-needed break. During the afternoon, the team scored a total of 94 goals and only conceded 32, which is a fantastic achievement.
Well done, girls, on an excellent afternoon of netball and a well-deserved place in the next round. Thank you also to the amazing sideline of supporters!
Woodbridge U19s tournament matches
Our U19s had more of a difficult challenge in their respective tournament. With Year 10’s Lyrah and Millie both making their debut due to injuries, the team played some brilliant netball during the afternoon and did not give up without a fight. Facing physically strong opposition who dominated us on occasions was difficult, but when we managed to find our feet and play our own game, we played excellently as a team, defending hard and picking up lose interceptions and following every missed shot for the rebounds.
Our first game against Ipswich School was a tough one, but at half time we were down by three goals, so all to play for. Unfortunately, with their quick and dominating play, which we allowed them to do, they went ahead and won the game. Next, was another physically strong and well-drilled team, RHS, who we let dominate us. Again, we could not adapt to their style of play and narrowly lost. With three matches left against St Jo’s, Ipswich School Bs and Ipswich High, we had everything to play for. It was all even in our match against St Jo’s, and after this, the girls knew they could win their last two matches. It was another tight game against Ipswich School B, but we won and then in our last match we played the best netball we had all afternoon, and the girls were proud of their performance as they should have been. Coming away with a convincing win, was a great way to end the afternoon.
Well done, girls, on a superb effort! We were unlucky not to secure a place, but all to play for next year!
Woodbridge U16s also secure place at County round
The U16s qualified on Tuesday afternoon for the next round in November after a very hot afternoon of intense netball. The girls played six games of 14 minutes on the bounce without a break and did so well. We won our first three games against St Jo’s, East Bergholt High School, and knew that we needed to win at least five out of the six games.
We unfortunately lost our next game against Ipswich School but pulled another win out of the bag in our next game versus Ipswich High School. We had some tired players on our hands, and some suffering from colds but they battled on nonetheless.
Unfortunately, we met a strong Farlingaye side and lost and then had a nail-biting wait to see if we had qualified, which we had!! There were some standout performances from Lara who played in every zone on the court and ran her socks off, Bonnie who shot and commanded our attacking circle really well, Juno and Georgia who dominated our defence and Phoebe who played brilliantly when she stepped on the court.
All the girls should be proud of themselves, it was a great display of teamwork and resilience. Well done.