Category: Senior School News
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!
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 brief – to design and make a conceptual, architectural bird box, influenced by one of the following design movements: Bauhaus Design, Art Deco or Memphis Design.
Stepping into the classroom to meet with Year 10 mid-design and creation of their individual bird boxes, the whirring and whizzing of the machinery and the sound of sanding and hammering filled the room. Looking around it was clear to see that the students were a few weeks into this particular project, as bird box designs and concepts of different styles at different stages were scattered across the classroom, with students eager to continue creating them.
Talking to Sam about his design he shared,
“I wanted to make a large bird box, so I went for the Bauhaus Design, which I’ve chosen to create quite simply. As you can see from my cardboard model I’ve added a dimension to the side of the bird box that I think will make it a much larger piece, really give it the wow factor!”
He continued,
“I’m currently finishing off the roof, and I’ve just finished making the bird hole in the front of the bird box, which I did using the Pillar drill – it was great fun learning how to use it and seeing what you can do.”
Talking about why he’s chosen Design as a GCSE option he said,
“It’s always fun, I really love making stuff, learning how to use new tools, machinery and techniques, and there’s lots of independence in terms of making our projects come to life.”
Having chosen to base her design on the Memphis Design, Edie shared,
“Of the three Design movements, I liked this one the best, I’m going to create something patterned, something that’s colourful and bright.” Talking about what she enjoys about Design she shared, “I really enjoy the practical side of Design, creating something with your own hands, that you created in your mind, is brilliant, I always have so much fun – and all while I’m learning so much.”
Looking around the room, there are variations of each design movement coming to life, and the students are deep in thought, focused and busy creating what they’ve envisaged from the start. Mrs Cracknell, Head of Design at Woodbridge School commented,
“It’s an extremely lively, active part of Design, when the students’ plans and imagination come to life – through materials, machinery and skills they’re learning in each lesson. They thoroughly enjoy the process, and we’re looking forward to having some brilliant homes for birds at the end of this project.”
Before we leave, Lade shares his design with us, based on the Bauhaus movement, he said,
“I really like curves in design, so that’s what made me go for this style. I think it looks really modern and aesthetic.”
He continued,
“The thing I enjoy most about Design is the process of taking thoughts and inspirations, raw materials and tools, and creating something individual.” Talking about his actual design he explained, “I’m about to secure the floor and the roof on the bird box, and I think then I’ll be about half way through the project. I’m not going to decorate it, I prefer to see the raw wood.”
To find out more about Design at Woodbridge School visit woodbridgeschool.org.uk/the-arts/design/.
The UKLO results for the non-Advanced rounds came out this week, and we have received a magnificent 118 awards, more than double what we gained last year.
With students gaining 28 Gold (awarded to the top 5% in the country), 33 Silver and 57 Bronze, it has certainly been cause for celebration in School!
Congratulations to all of the students who took part, as the competition required concentration and creative thinking, as well as strong logical and linguistic skills.
Full results from the UKLO by stage, can be found below:
Breakthrough (Level 1, for Year 7/8) 54 Awards
- 4 Gold (6% of all Golds awarded nationally)
- Year 8’s Eleanor
- Year 7’s James
- Year 7’s Barnaby
- Year 7’s Jamie
- 14 Silver
- Year 8’s Joseph
- Year 8’s William
- Year 8’s George
- Year 8’s Freddie
- Year 8’s Jacob
- Year 8’s Fergal
- Year 8’s Hexi
- Year 8’s Rufus
- Year 8’s Clemence
- Year 8’s Bethany
- Year 7’s Alexander
- Year 7’s James
- Year 7’s Harriet
- Year 7’s Robin
- 37 Bronze
- Year 8’s Philippa
- Year 8’s Imarah
- Year 8’s Francesca
- Year 8’s Jemima
- Year 8’s Ella
- Year 8’s Isabelle
- Year 8’s Mikayla
- Year 8’s Alexandra
- Year 8’s Evie
- Year 8’s Rebecca
- Year 8’s Ariane
- Year 8’s Alice
- Year 7’s Seb
- Year 7’s James
- Year 7’s Arthur
- Year 7’s Stefan
- Year 8’s Charlotte
- Year 8’s Isabella
- Year 8’s Kirsty
- Year 8’s Lilia
- Year 8’s Imogen
- Year 8’s Amber
- Year 8’s Arthur
- Year 8’s Tom
- Year 8’s Maximilian
- Year 8’s Angus
- Year 8’s Theo
- Year 8’s Otto H
- Year 8’s Henry
- Year 8’s Otto P S
- Year 8’s Toby
- Year 8’s Monty
- Year 8’s Griff
- Year 7’s Olivia
- Year 7’s Poppy
- Year 7’s Daisy
- Year 7’s Sarah
Foundation (Level 2)
26 Awards were achieved by Year 9 students participating.
- 22 Golds (24% of all Golds awarded nationally, despite our students making up just 5.9% of all participants)
- Seth
- Pranav
- Alex
- Xan
- Arabella
- Erin
- Hadiya
- Sheryl
- Barnaby
- George
- Kaell
- Oscar D
- Millie
- Ella
- Abigail
- Isabella
- Bay
- Millie
- Isabelle
- Marina
- Layla
- Georgia
- 4 Bronze
- Arthur
- Annis
- William S
- Martha
Intermediate (Level 3)
12 Awards were achieved by Year 10 students
- 4 Silver
- Maxim
- Daisy
- Lottie
- George A
- 8 Bronze
- Honor
- Annie
- Aldana
- Emilia
- Oliver Y
- Laurynas
- Toby
- Frank
Advanced Team
- 12 Silver
- Year 11’s Arthur*
- Year 11’s Jasper*
- Year 11’s Ernest*
- Year 11’s Oscar P*
- Year 11’s Arlo*
- Year 12’s Lily
- Year 12’s Emily
- Year 12’s Juno
- Year 12’s Dora
- Year 12’s Vee
- Year 12’s Freyja
- Year 13’s Vio
- 7 Bronze
- Year 12’s Alice F
- Year 12’s Sofiia
- Year 12’s Sophie
- Year 12’s Alice S
- Year 11’s Stephanie*
- Year 11’s Isobel *
- Year 11’s Bea*
Advanced Solo
- 2 Gold (invited to take part in Round 2, from which the UK Olympiad squad is chosen)
- Year 11’s Alexander*
- Year 13’s Abigail
- 3 Silver
- Year 11’s Sam*
- Year 11’s Jack*
- Year 11’s Aurelia*
- 1 Bronze
- Year 11’s Mika*
*Students competing a year up
Last week was busy for Hockey players, especially Tuesday which saw four hockey matches featuring players from five Year groups.
Our 1st XI took on Ipswich School 2nd team at Rushmere Sport Centre, and as usual this was a tightly contested match, with neither team getting the upper hand in the first half but both scoring twice. It was Woodbridge who got the match winner in the second half and came away with bragging rights this season. Our goals were scored by Year 13’s Alfie and Hugh and Year 11’s Alex.
The 2nd team travelled to Ipswich High School, seeking their first win of the season, and the first half was a fiery affair! Woodbridge scored three times courtesy of Year 11’s Sam C, Sam L and Arthur and looking like they were going to run away with it. However, the second half saw a much more organised and disciplined opponent take to the field. Both teams now played constructive Hockey. Ipswich High School pulled one goal back via a great penalty corner strike, but thereafter nothing got past Year 12’s Ethan in goal, with him making some quality saves. At the other end, usual GK, Year 12’s Indie made his first appearance playing on pitch as a forward and got agonisingly close to scoring. Without any more goals being scored, Woodbridge saw the game out for the win they craved and have deserved for their play so far this season. Player of the Match went to captain, Year 13 Finlay for his solid performance at centre back, stopping attacks and starting Woodbridge attacking build-ups, and good leadership throughout the game.
Photo below: 2nd team after Ipswich High Win
The Junior 5 and 6 teams hosted Ipswich School last Tuesday evening. After a slow start, with a slightly altered squad, the Junior 5s started to play better passing hockey and created a number of chances . It took some sharp finishes from Year 7’s Miles to beat the Ipswich High keeper who had a decent game. At the back, Year 8’s Charlie stayed resolute in defence. This was a satisfying win in chilly after-school conditions. Well played to all the boys and hattrick-hero and our Player of the Match, Miles.
The Junior 6 team had a resounding and comprehensive victory over Ipswich High School U12C. Our players showed the knowledge and experience they had gained this season, playing against a less experienced team. Well done to all the goal scorers: Year 7’s Will and Stefan and Year 8’s Rufus and Alex and Year 7’s Luke for bagging three goals.
U16 Regional Finals
Last Friday, a 15-man strong squad set off for the East Regional Finals. Not knowing what to expect, being unfamiliar with every opponent, our team acquitted themselves very well. We faced Chigwell, a team on top goal scoring form this season (according to captain Sam’s research), in the first match. Woodbridge set out to defend with structure and discipline and attack creatively using width and height. Woodbridge did this well, but Chigwell finally broke the deadlock despite Year 10’s Arthur making a triple save in that play. A narrow loss in the first game only motivated the players, now knowing they will be a force in the pool.
Next up was a win against Southend High School, courtesy of an early goal from Year 11’s Sam L and a few minutes later from Year 10’s Seb from a penalty corner. Woodbridge enjoyed playing freely with a comfy lead and securing the three points with their win. Frustratingly the same fate hit Woodbridge in the next game, going two goals down in the opening ten minutes against Hitchin. It was too big a deficit to come back from despite Woodbridge giving it their all, including taking the goalkeeper off to play with 11 field players.
The last match of the day was against Stephen Perse. A very entertaining 0-0 draw played out. Goal chances and saves both ends entertained those watching. Woodbridge played some of their best patterns through midfield and up to the forwards, despite fatigue setting in. The team can be very proud and satisfied with their performance at this event. Lots of learning, magic moments, teamwork, mature choices for the team and leadership are just some things to take away. Our Player of the Day was our super goalie, Arthur.
Well done and thanks for each of the players who invested so well in the day. A very memorable day and one which motivates for the future. Looking forward to the next couple of seasons with these young men as senior players at Woodbridge School.
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.
Encouraging primary school children to develop new skills and gain hands-on experience across various curriculum subjects, our Primary Enrichment Programme workshops are great fun and engaging – the perfect way for children to learn and develop!
Strengthening and broadening not only children’s learning and knowledge, but supporting primary schools teachers in the delivery of key factors on the primary curriculum, our workshops complement and support what teachers already deliver in school. Free of charge, transport can also be provided and our workshops can also be hosted in schools, to ensure maximum opportunity and participation.
Tailored to suit age/year groups, workshops offer an engaging and dynamic mix of topics and skills accordingly; boosting interest and learning in STEAM subjects, the programme offers over 25 different workshops covering a variety of different subjects and activities. From Art Sculpturing, Crime Scene Investigation, Computational Thinking and Drama Workshops, to Music and Design, Geography Field Studies, as well as playing with LEGO at our LEGO Fun Day, and shows such as A Journey into Space and Kitchen Chemistry.
Attending workshops takes children out of their classrooms and own school and allows them to experience and become confident in new environments; another aspect of growth and development that is just as important as learning.
Our entire School community is involved in supporting the programme and the workshops; from teachers sharing their experience, passion and enthusiasm and taking their own time to plan and contribute to the workshops, to students chaperoning, participating and contributing; in turn supports development of their confidence, leadership and teamwork skills.
At least 20 primary schools participate each year; our programme is always fully booked. Cumulatively, approximately 1,900 children attend workshops each year, meaning by the end of this academic year 13,342 children will have taken part in workshops as part of this programme since its introduction. And this number is going to grow, as we have begun to introduce a similar programme for Senior school students, Secondary School Enrichment which we’ll share more information about soon.
Since our last Primary Enrichment roundup in December, the School has been brimming with local primary school children attending for various workshops. We’ve shared details of some of those workshops below, as a taste of what you can expect from Primary Enrichment at Woodbridge School.
LEGO Fun Day
An event for all the family, this workshop is hosted in School at the weekend and open to the community. Supported The Brickologists, this is always an extraordinary experience for children and adults alike to play and build with LEGO. From free build areas for Duplo, LEGO and LEGO Bionicles, to minifigure hunts with small prizes, it was a brilliant and lively workshop which saw children (and adults!) take part in a Brickoff Lego Challenge with prizes for the best models built, to car building and downhill race tracks. This regular event attracted people from across the School and the region, and as per usual, was thoroughly enjoyed!
Mandarin and Spanish Languages Workshops
Grundisburgh Primary School joined us in School to take part in our Mandarin and Spanish workshop. With activities relating to each of the countries separately, children learned about the languages, the countries and their culture; singing songs, learning about traditions and making Spanish carnival masks, as well as learning about how Mandarin characters were invented, meaning of a series of radicals and competitions to see who could assess the most characters successfully.
Celebrating the Festival of Light
Exploring Hinduism and Judaism, this workshop focused on light and its special meaning and message across the world. Children from Years 3 to 6 from our own Prep School thoroughly enjoyed making their own Hindu Diya lamp which they were able to take home with them.
The Science of Science Fiction
Supported by Sirius Astronomy, children from Years 3 to 6 from several different primary schools as well as our own Prep School, came together for our ‘Science of Science Fiction’ show in our Seckford Theatre. This enthralling, educational and exciting show used flames, marshmallows, ladders, oil, water, lasers and plenty of willing volunteers to unmask the untruths and explain the truths within the ‘Science of Science Fiction’. Children learned how rockets work, why astronauts wear space suits and how to make an invisibility cloak!
Coming up in the next few weeks as we head to the end of Lent term, our Netball Tournament and Multiskills Tournaments will take place:
Netball Tournament
Our Netball Tournament for children from Years 5 and 6 offers an introduction to the full seven-aside game, which is played from Year 7 upwards at all Senior schools, so gives them an insight into what children have in store in sports beyond primary school. With seven different primary schools taking part, children will take part in a round robin format tournament, a perfect introduction for children to experience the full 7 vs 7 game in preparation for their next step to senior school sport!
Multiskills Tournament
Over 130 children from Year 1 at local primary schools are set to join us for a multi-skills festival, where they will take part in a carousel of different sporting activities. As well as having great fun together, and making new friends, children will work on developing co-ordination alongside many other sports skills. Our own Sports Leader students will be on hand, helping to manage the day, and talk to the children about the different sports on offer from Year 7 onwards in senior school.
This is just a selection of the Primary Enrichment workshops on offer through our programme, and the learning and fun had by children attending. If you’d like to find out more, or enquire about your school attending in future, please email primary_enrichment@woodbridgeschool.org.uk.