Category: Woodbridgian Weekly

Year 12, 10 and 8 Geographers travelled to Felixstowe, Aldeburgh and Dunwich recently, making the most of the Spring sunshine to embark on various field trips in the local area. Read more about what they got up to in our report from Mrs Gill, Head of Geography.

Mrs Gill, Head of Geography

The Geography department have been making the most of the Spring sunshine to embark on various field trips in the local area.

Year 12 were at Felixstowe, firstly measuring to what extent the beach between groynes conforms to a typical model diagram and later walking along the prom and up into town investigating the theory of rebranding. The day is a chance to practise fieldwork techniques, to learn new ways of measuring different types of data and also to confirm and question ideas learned in the classroom. The formal writing up of their investigations helps reinforce good enquiry structure for when they do their own individual investigation, worth up to 20% of their actual A level.

Year 12 at Felixstowe – an interesting way to use a tape measure?

The whole of Year 8 took over the beach at Dunwich to try to identify what processes are occurring and if erosion is still happening. They measured beach profiles, sediment characteristics, wave types, longshore drift and learned a little about the history of this once great medieval city – now a village of less than 200 people – all because of erosion! We also had an interesting study in how long it takes 90 people to each get their bag of chips! In the GCSE exam, students are questioned about fieldwork techniques, such as sampling strategies, and have to use their own experience to answer questions on things such as the accuracy and reliability of their data collection methods or assessment of the validity of their conclusions.

Year 8 on a breezy Dunwich beach – is that cliff eroding?

The coastal defences to the south of Aldeburgh provide an excellent opportunity for Year 10 to see if the groynes, seawall and riprap are effective and to find out what other alternatives might be being considered.

Year 10 at Aldeburgh – where has all the sediment gone?

Huge congratulations to our Equestrian team on an absolutely super weekend at Hickstead during half term in the NSEA Championships; it was our most successful championships to date! Winning both the 75cm and 85cm Eventers Challenge, it was a superb weekend.

Year 9’s Grace, Year 8’s Kirsty and Year 7’s Tati and Daisy made up the team for the 75cm Eventers Challenge, with Year 9’s Grace winning the class individually, while Year 8’s Kirsty and Year 7’s Tati finished in 2nd and 3rd place overall, competing against 36 other schools!

Year 10’s Zac and Harry, Year 9’s Grace, and Year 7’s Daisy made up our 85cm Eventers Challenge, with Zac winning the class individually.

Our Dressage team, which included Year 7’s Daisy, Year 8’s Jasmine, and Year 10’s Harry and Edie, saw Jasmine take 4th place. Placed in all our classes, it was an unbelievable weekend for all of our riders.

Well done to all of our riders, they all did amazingly and we’re incredibly proud of all they achieved, together and individually.

Special thanks also to our Equestrian jump coach, Jake Hall, who has trained, supported and encouraged our riders every canter of the way!

What an absolutely superb afternoon we had on Wednesday 21 May, with our very own clarinet teacher, James Meldrum, who treated us to a truly inspiring Clarinet Recital in the School Hall! Mr Woodley, our Director of Music shares his review of the afternoon.

Mr Woodley, Director of Music

“It was fantastic to see so many students from our school, as well as local senior and primary schools, come together to hear James perform and share his incredible passion for the clarinet.

James, who is the principal clarinet of the New European Ensemble in the Netherlands and specialises in contemporary and 20th-century music, showcased his immense talent with a diverse and captivating programme. From the rhythmic allure of Astor Piazzolla’s Histoire du Tango (featuring the ‘Bordel 1900’ movement) to the virtuosic flair of Alamiro Giampieri’s Il Carnevale di Venezia, every piece was performed with astonishing skill and musicality.

The audience was particularly enchanted by George Gershwin’s classic Summertime, and the technical brilliance of Donato Lorreglio’s Fantasia da Concerto su motivi de “La Traviata” di G. Verdi and Artie Shaw’s Clarinet Concert truly highlighted the clarinet’s versatility and expressive range.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Maciej Kassak for his superb accompaniment on piano, and a special thank you to Gerry Gillins on drums for adding their fantastic contributions to what was a truly memorable concert – and I thoroughly enjoyed accompanying on guitar!

Concerts like this are invaluable for encouraging and inspiring our young musicians, and it was clear from the captivated faces in the audience that James’s performance had a profound impact.

We are incredibly fortunate to have such a world-class musician and dedicated educator as part of our Music department.”

Meeting on the Chapel lawn, under the trees on what will be the stage of this (and every) year’s Shakespeare on the Lawn, we joined Annie and Millie S who play Don Adriano de Armado and Moth in Love’s Labour’s Lost. We took the opportunity to learn more about this duo, about the characters as well as the young actors who will be performing them on 1 and 2 July.

Don Adriano de Armado, Played by Annie

Don Adriano de Armado thinks he is much finer than he actually is, using fancy language and far too much of it, so he talks in paragraphs even when making the simplest of points! He presumes a friendship with the King that he does not have and is in love with Jaquenetta, pursuing her in every way, with poor results. He shares a close relationship with his manservant Moth.

“Don Armardo is so much fun to play! He’s often confused about the English language, so a lot of the characters make fun of him because of that, but it’s given me a great opportunity to act with an accent – what a challenge!

Overall he’s just a very comedic and joyous character, bringing lots of light and character to the show, and I’ve been having the time of my life playing him, he’s such a fun character to play.

He’s quite different from characters I’ve played in past productions, but I absolutely adore performing and playing such an extravagant and over the top character is so much fun. I love Shakespeare especially because everything is just so over exaggerated – I’m super excited about performing in July!”

Moth, Played by Millie S

Don Armado’s young manservant and sidekick, Moth is an extremely quick-witted boy who seems to be the only one who can decipher his master’s mind-boggling language! Often putting Don Armado in his place and highlighting his absurdities, he never misses an opportunity for a joke and though nowhere near a Lord himself, he’s never intimidated by those that are.

“Playing Armado’s servant is great fun – my character is very quick witted, he makes a lot of jokes and excites the scenes! Despite being his servant, he’s almost like a parent figure to him, helping him through his love conundrum with Janquenetta.

I was particularly excited to be given this part, I wasn’t looking for a huge role to be honest, so this has been perfect. I can spend time perfecting this role and really making the best of every scene.

I think the most exciting part of performing for me is definitely the costumes, they bring the play to life and make it feel real – I can’t wait for July!”

Tickets for both the 1 and 2 July performances will be on sale soon! We do hope you can join us in School on the Chapel Lawn to enjoy Year 9’s Love’s Labour’s Lost.

Our recent Chamber Concert was an absolutely superb evening, showcasing the incredible talent and dedication of our students across a diverse range of ensembles.  The performances were truly a treat for all who attended.  Read more about it the evening from our Director of Music, Mr Woodley. 

Mr Woodley, Director of Music 

“The evening featured contributions from Cellisti, who opened the concert with a vibrant rendition of Bizet’s Habanera, Bernstein’s America, and Williams’ Schindler’s List.  Seckford Strings charmed with Barrera’s Russian Riddle, and the Clarinet Quintet delivered a fine performance of the Allegro from Mozart’s Quintet KV 581, with Year 13’s Abi’s clarinet playing being especially impressive. 

A key highlight was the Piano Trio’s rendition of Mendelssohn’s 1st movement from No.2 in C minor, which was performed with profound beauty and emotion, captivating the audience. 
The Chamber Orchestra, though remarkably large for a ‘chamber’ ensemble, nonetheless delivered a magnificent performance of Britten’s Soirees Musicales, demonstrating impressive cohesion and musicality. 

Year 13’s Phoebe’s flute solo, Density 21.5 by Varese, offered a fascinatingly modern contrast.  Phoebe tackled this challenging piece with remarkable confidence and great sensitivity, truly making it her own. 
The overwhelmingly positive feedback from parents speaks volumes about the evening’s impact.  As one parent so aptly put it, it was, “a smashing night…superb!”  and “a real treat to come and listen to,”.  It was clear to see the bursting pride of parents and grandparents alike, and rightfully so.  

We were also delighted to be joined by Mavis Masters, who taught cello at the school for 27 years before retiring in 2007, who was also celebrating her 90th birthday with us.  Mavis even gave a wonderful speech at the end, expressing her delight that such impressive music making was still flourishing by the students in the School. 

A huge thank you to all the students for their hard work and brilliant performances, and to all the staff who generously gave their time to support everyone, making such a memorable evening possible.

Our U12 Cricket match against Wymondham saw Woodbridge walk away with a great win earlier in the week.  Hear more about the team and the match in our report from our Head of Cricket, Mr Cantrell. 

Mr Cantrell, Head of Cricket 

“Our U12 team, comprising Year 7 players, had a great match against Wymondham earlier this week. 

Woodbridge batted first, with Grace being our top scorer, putting Woodbridge in a position to defend a reasonable total.  Trying to score quicker with a shot over the top, she was well caught just when really getting going.   

Martha played a little gem to close to the end of the innings but Woodbridge was restricted to 107/8 from 20 overs, with few runs scored in the final overs.   

Wymondham started well with two power batters hitting fours, but Emily and Georgie changed the momentum by dismissing the top order.  Martha bowled fast and straight to keep the scoring low and pressure on, 15/1 from 4 overs; add two quality catches, and she was crowned Player of the Match.  Ava contributed well with two wickets and economical figures.  

Thanks to good bowling under pressure the game was won.  Wymondham all out for 97.” 

A certain indicator that it is summer time in School, Year 9’s Shakespeare on the Lawn rehearsals are now in full swing, and as usual we’ll be meeting up with students over the next few weeks, to hear how they’re feeling about their characters and the performance of Love’s Labour’s Lost on 1 and 2 July.

This week we joined rehearsals and met up with Rufus, Seth, Oscar and Albie, who play Ferdinand, Berowne, Longaville and Dumaine respectively.

Ferdinand, King of Navarre, Played by Rufus

Ferdinand, King of Navarre, prefers to hide away and study rather than taking care of his kingdom, hoping to make his realm an intellectual powerhouse. Sharing his century’s opinion of women, he bans them from the court as he thinks they will distract his courtiers from their studies – something he himself is guilty of, particularly when the Princess of France is around!

Rufus shared,

“As the leader of the group including Berowne, Longaville and Dumaine, King Ferdinand is very powerful, and quite keen on demonstrating his authority over and against others, it’s great fun to play him.”

He continued,

“I find it quite funny how, in the play, the men have sworn not to have anything to do with women, to focus on their intellectual progression – and yet that changes very soon after taking that oath!”

Talking about how he feels rehearsals are going so far he said,

“I’m really enjoying working with everyone on the play, rehearsals are great fun – we’re about to go off script soon though and that’s probably my biggest challenge, but I’m going to work hard and memorise my lines!”

Berowne, Played by Seth

A Lord of the court of Navarre, and one of the King’s best friends, Berowne is one of three who agree to the King on his scholarly retreat, although he’s not convinced it will be successful! Berowne has a well-earned international reputation for mockery, and is looked up to by most, including the King himself.

Talking about the character he’s been chosen to play, Seth explained,

“Berowne is obviously in the gang with the King and the other Lords, but he’s definitely more of his own person that the others, knows his own mind and has his own ideas. He doesn’t tend to suck up to the King as much as the others, he stands out for me because of this alone.”

He continued,

“I’m really enjoying playing this character, there’s a lot of ground to cover, lots of expression needed and I’m loving that.”

Sharing his thoughts ahead of performing in July he said,

“There are always a few nerves, especially just before the first performance, but with enough rehearsals and hard work I know it’s going to be really good, and I’m looking forward to performing.”

Longaville, Played by Oscar

Another of the three Lords who join the King of Navarre’s court on his scholarly retreat, Longaville feels that three years without good food or women won’t be so bad – or so long. Another well-regarded Lord, he is blunt in manner and can be sharp-tongued, and also infatuated with Maria to whom he shares a great deal of (terribly bad) love poetry; it seems time away from her might not be as easy as he thought.

Playing the part of Longaville, Oscar shared,

“I’m having lots of fun playing this character, along with Dumaine he’s part of a sort of double act, sucking up to the King and agreeing with almost everything he says, he just wants to be on the King’s good side – always! I was pleased to get this part and so excited to start rehearsals.”

Oscar says he’s always wanted to take part in Shakespeare on the Lawn and said,

“It’s something I’ve always wanted to do, and I’m so excited to be involved this year. I think my only challenge is learning all of the lines, I want to make sure I have them completely nailed so that I can give my best performances in July.”

Dumaine, Played by Albie

The third of the Lords at King of Navarre’s court, Dumaine is a terrible poet, who insists on inflicting his verses on Katherine when he falls for her. Mocking Berowne for falling in love, he’s not the brightest, and feels affected greatly by the fact that the ladies think he and his fellow Lords are merely playing at love.

Playing the character of Dumaine, Albie explained that he’s quite a cheeky chappy,

“He’s definitely one of the Lords that is trying most to please the King, he agrees with everything he says and doesn’t seem to have his own thoughts on anything. Although this play is obviously centuries old we’re playing it as though it was set in the 50s, so it’s much more modern and that makes it easier to play than traditional Shakespeare I think.”

Feeling the same challenge as our other young actors, Albie said,

“The only thing that really worries me is going off script, and I know that’s true for everyone – in this play and possibly every play ever performed – but we’ve plenty of time and I’m loving rehearsals, so hoping to have my lines memorised soon!”

Join us in School on Tuesday 1 and Wednesday 2 July for Love’s Labour’s Lost, tickets will be on sale soon so pop the date in your diary, and we’ll share the link to get those booked as soon as we can.

It has been a busy start to the athletics season, especially for Year 10, with three competitions in six days, and all in the glorious sunshine. Our reports below come from Mrs Scahill, our Head of Athletics and Other Sports.

ESAA Track and Field Cup, Bury St Edmunds

Woodbridge School got off to a winning start with three of our four teams competing in the Suffolk round of the ESAA Track and Field Cup in Bury St Edmunds on Thursday 8 May. Luckily not a wash out like last year, the teams enjoyed a day of competition in the sunshine. Each team is made up of thirteen/fifteen students and they have to cover all the events between them, doing two events each (one track one field) scoring points for their distances and times. Junior boys and junior girls are a mix of Year 7 and Year 8. Inter boys and inter girls are a mix of Year 9 and Year 10.

The junior boys, junior girls and inter girls won, and the inter boys came second. This takes the winning teams through to the regional round, which takes place after half term in Chelmsford.

We were very proud of our athletes who very early in the athletics term were able to compete confidently and gave it their all. There was lots of support from teammates as every performance meant essential points for the team. Top scorers of the day were Year 8’s Alexandra and Dex, and Year 10’s Romilly and Tom.

Suffolk Schools and Suffolk County Athletics Track and Field Championships

Three days later many of the athletes were back in Bury St Edmunds on Sunday 11 May, competing individually in the Suffolk Schools and the Suffolk County Athletics Track and Field Championships.

Athletes taking part included:

From Year 7:

• Juno

From Year 8:

• Imarah
• Alexandra
• Evie
• India B
• India J
• Imogen
• Alfie
• Dex
• Otis
• Josh
• Ella
• Tom

From Year 9:

• Eirann
• Hamish
• Oscar
• Ben

From Year 10:

• Georgia
• Romilly
• Felicity

From Year 11:

• Margot

It was also lovely to see OWs like Nancy A competing there too.

It was a very successful day for the Woodbridge athletes with many personal bests and top three finishes; especially for Romilly who achieved under the entry time of 4.45, with 4.44 to qualify to run the 1500m in the English Schools Championships in July.

There were Gold medals for Margot (for the third year running) in high jump, for Georgia in triple jump, for Eirann in javelin and high jump, for Oscar in 100m and 300m, for Hamish in 800m, for Ben in long jump, for Tom in javelin, for Imarah in discus, for Alexandra in 800m, and for Dex in 1500m. There were Silver medals for Romilly in 1500m, Ella in javelin, Oscar in high jump, and for Juno in 100m, and there was a Bronze for Ben in 100m.

Well done to all the athletes competing on the hottest day of the year so far, particularly those who achieved personal bests! Also big thanks to their parents for all their support.

Good luck to those going on to represent Suffolk at the Regional Championships in Peterborough on 21 June 2025.

South Suffolk Schools, Northgate

On Tuesday 13 May, in the evening, the Year 10 boys and girls teams were competing against 14 other South Suffolk schools at Northgate.

It was another successful meet with individual wins for Romily, Georgia, Izzy, Charlie, Ollie Y, second places for Eve, Rory, Oli M, Ollie Y, Liam, Johnny and the relay team of Charlie, Tom, Seb and Rory and third places for Sukie, Abi, James, and the relay team of Izzy, Sukie, Abi and Georgia.

Well done all and thank you to the staff for running events and videoing for GCSE.

Last week, our Year 12 A level and Year 10 GCSE Drama students travelled to London to see My Neighbour Totoro at the Gillian Lynne Theatre. Year 10’s Willow shared her experience and enjoyment of the trip and the play.

Year 10’s Willow

My Neighbour Totoro was an absolute joy to watch.

Having seen the original movie it is based on, I can say the production captured the essence of childhood whimsy with ease; from the costumes to the puppets and the stage design itself.

The show was constantly moving, a massive highlight was the large house, made up of multiple set pieces so it could be pushed around to reveal the happenings inside and out.

I loved all the puppets and by extension the puppeteering, they felt like they were taken straight from the movie and there were so many of them! From fantasy creatures to a realistic goat, and of course, not to be forgotten, the nearly ten-foot-tall Totoro puppet. There was even a separate puppet for when he was asleep!

The acting was brilliant from every cast member, and they really solidified themselves as part of the fantastical world. There are a million more things I could say about how wonderful this show is but, to keep things short, it was fun, silly and I highly recommended it!

42 students from Year 10 took part in the Bronze DofE expedition training last weekend, undertaking practical navigation practice, emergency procedures, first aid and route planning.

They were then driven to their campsites, two groups staying at each location with staff. There, they received more training on camp craft, including pitching tents and how to use stoves.

After a pleasant night camping as the weekend’s weather was lovely, they cooked breakfast they then walked back to School on different routes, carrying all their expedition equipment.

Mistakes were made, being those navigational or with their kit, but hopefully the groups learnt from these and this weekend gave them the opportunity to prepare themselves and be ready for their two-day qualifying expedition in June.