Leweston Life | Summer Term 2024 by Claire Worsley

LEWESTONLIFE

LEWESTON LIFE REFLECTS THE MANY ACHIEVEMENTS OF LEWESTON PUPILS OVER THE LAST FEW MONTHS

WELCOME FROM THE HEAD

It has been a truly remarkable and eventful Summer Term here at Leweston. Our students have showcased their talents and dedication across various activities, leaving a mark of excellence in many areas.

In sports, our students displayed outstanding performances, from playing netball in Malaysia to setting new school records on Sports Day. Our Geography students also had a productive time completing their fieldwork in Devon. The Arts were well represented with students showcasing their musical talents at the Summer Concert and exhibiting their creative pieces at the Art and Design Exhibition. Additionally, we celebrated numerous national championships, highlighting the exceptional skills and dedication of our students.

The term was also filled with cherished traditions and significant farewells. Year 11 students celebrated their end of year with the traditional pool jump, while Year 13 students enjoyed a memorable Leavers Tea, Mass, and Ball. We wish all our departing students the very best for their future endeavors and eagerly await news of their next accomplishments.

The summer also marked the opening of our new astro, and we look forward to welcoming many staff, parents and students to play on it for our Charity Hockey Festival in September. We hosted an enlightening Leweston Lecture, enriching the intellectual life of our school. Furthermore, we were honoured to be shortlisted for Independent Prep School of the Year and Independent School of the Year for Student Careers in the Independent School of the Year Awards.

Reflecting on the myriad of achievements of our students this term, it’s evident why we received such prestigious nominations. A heartfelt thank you goes out to our students, parents, and staff for their unwavering dedication and hard work throughout not only this term but the entire academic year. Your collective efforts have made this year one of great success and joy.

John Paget-Tomlinson

Summer Concert

tions to our students who at this year's Summer Concert ol Chapel. Performances from an recital, rock band 'The Band, Diploma students and Baroque Ensemble, to name a few, highlighted what diverse talent is nurtured by our dedicated Music Department.

We are sure the Concert will have sparked a passion in more students to explore music in our school community.

MUSIC AND CREATIVE ARTS

Geoffrey Morgan performs in the School Chapel

We were honoured to have Mr. Geoffrey Morgan perform in our School Chapel this term. His organ recital showcased his exceptional talent and impressive career, from London to Yale University, and now as Organist Emeritus at Christchurch Priory. The audience was treated to a stunning performance, including pieces by Bach, Frank Bridge, Alfred Hollins, and Théodore Dubois Mr Morgan's expertise truly brought out the full capabilities of our chapel organ, making it a memorable occasion for all.

Art and Design Clubs Showcase new talents.

Our talented students at our after-school club, Art Academy, were busy exploring new mediums like oil paints, mastering the art of mixing colours and blending techniques. They produced some absolutely stunning final pieces that highlight their creativity. Meanwhile, during their weekly meetings, 3D Club members put their skills to use by crafting beautiful bird feeders from scratch. The end result is not only a fantastic showcase of the skills they've acquired over the course of the club but also provides a muchneeded source of food for our feathered friends!

Art and Design Students Visit Cornwall

In May, Year 10 Art and Design students explored iconic locations in Cornwall, drawing inspiration from nature's beauty and complexity at the Eden Project and Tate St Ives. They also visited the Barbara Hepworth Sculpture Garden and admired Kurt Jackson's seascapes. At St Michael's Mount beach, students engaged in creative activities like collecting shells and capturing photos with SLR cameras This enriching journey to Cornwall allowed our Year 10 students to draw inspiration from their surroundings and explore different artistic mediums, undoubtedly enhancing their Art and Design skills.

MUSIC AND CREATIVE ARTS

Art and Design Exhibition

Thank you to everyone who attended this year's Art and Design Exhibition. The event, held in the Manor House, showcased the impressive works created by our GCSE and A Level students. The exhibition featured a diverse range of skills, including textiles, 3D Design, Fine Art, and sculpting. The support and appreciation for our students' creativity and hard work made the event a great success.

Leweston’s inaugural Cricket Tour!

Mr Manning, Director of Sport, organised and led the inaugural Leweston Cricket Tour for a group of our Senior students.

The trip included thrilling matches against Dunottar School and Whitgift School, South Croydon and a visit to the hallowed grounds of Surrey Cricketnone other than the iconic Kia Oval, making it a memorable three-day journey for students in Years 7 to 9.

Follow Lewestonsport on Instagram for the latest news and updates.

Leweston Makes Touch Rugby History

Leweston made history by entering the U14 Mixed Dorset Schools Touch Rugby Competition for the first time. The students displayed remarkable teamwork, respect, and sportsmanship, leading to a victory for Leweston 'St Anthony's.' They then had the opportunity to spend the day at Sixways Stadium (home of the Worcester Warriors) for the Touch 2 Twickenham Finals Day and qualified for the tournament at Twickenham!

The Sixth Formers also excelled as referees, earning an invitation to officiate at the finals day at the Worcester Warriors ground. A proud moment for all at Leweston!

"What has been a real privilege is to witness the pupils whom have not traditionally played games excel and achieve huge personal success. I firmly believe it has brought a new confidence to a number of our Year 9 students."

- Mr Wilford.

SPORT AND PENTATHLON

Dragon Boat Rac

A big well done to our Leweston Dragon B multiple victories in this year's competitio impressive teamwork and determination a categories. Congratulations to our teacher 'The Leweston Leviathans', who claimed t Senior category, 'Leweston Sixth Form Gr comfortably retained the Gold medal, and Team', Year 7 to 10, who finished second t medal.

The teams managed to raise an impressive Food Bank.

6 National Athletics Medallists

Leweston athletes had a fantastic day at the ISA National Athletics Championships held at the Alexander Stadium in Birmingham, with 6 of our athletes crowned National Medallists. Congratulations to Issac, Ellie, Alice, Izzy, Charlie and Milo

Swimming Success

Our girls swim teams competed in the North Dorset Schools’ Gala with some amazing performances;

Year 7 - Gold

Year 8 - Gold

Year 9 - Bronze

Year 10 - Silver

Finishing overall with Silver!

Tennis Triumph!

The U13 Boys’ Tennis Team were crowned the U13 Boys Div 2 Dorset Champions!

SPORT AND PENTATHLON

Sports Day!

On 19 June, we hosted the Senior School Sports Day. The annua event is a celebration of both strong athletic performances, as well as the binding House spirit and togetherness that rightly underpins school events such as this one.

Students from Year 7 through to 12 competed across the majori of athletic events for their respective Houses. For some it was about trying to break long standing school records, for others it was about completing the distance, but for all, it was about givi their best.

Well done to all students who strived for their House at Sports Day, whether that was running, jumping, throwing, hurdling, welly-wanging or collectively pulling on the tug-of-war rope.

Congratulations to winning House, Campion!

There were 11 school records set across the day, congratulations to the following;

Felicity – Year 11 to 13 (and Whole School) Girls’ Hurdles

Heidi – Year 8 Girls’ Hurdles

Felicity – Year 11 to 13 Girls’ Triple Jump

Alice – Year 9 Girls’ Triple Jump

James – Year 11 to 13 (and Whole School) Boys’ 100m

Isaac – Year 10 (and Whole School) Boys’ 100m

Milo – Year 7 Boys’ Hurdles

Milo – Year 7 Boys’ High Jump

Harry – Year 7 Boys’ Shot Put

Austin – Year 8 Boys’ Javelin

Campion (Isaac, Finley, Luigi and Charlie) - Year 9 to 10 Boys’ (and Whole School) 4x100m Relay

Malaysia Sports Tour

At the end of term, students in Year 10 upwards travelled to Malaysia for their sports tour, filled with netball games, cultural experiences, and community outreach activities.

Whilst there, they played several netball games against students at the local schools, took part in an aquathlon, visited the National Elephant Conservation Centre, a local Batik Workshop and the Salvation Army Girls’ Orphanage where they coached netball games to 4 to 19 year olds. They also visited a rainforest discovery centre and went on a Malaysian tea and coffee tasting tour!

They had a wonderful time during the trip, creating memories that will last a lifetime whilst also representing Le exceptional

European Biathle, Triathle and Laser Run Championships SPORT AND PENTATHLON

Leweston had 10 students representing Great Britain at the European Biathle, Triathle, and Laser Run Championships in Madeira. The GB team topped the medal table in all 3 competitions, with our athletes achieving some impressive results. Izzy K (Prep 6) was crowned European Champion in the U13 Biathle, and Laser Run, won Gold in the mixed Triathle and Laser Run relays, team Gold in Biathle and Silver in the Triathle and Laser run. Josh H (Year 11, U17) took Bronze in the Triathle and team Gold in the Triathle and Laser Run. Elizabeth D (Prep 4, U11) had a team Gold in Triathle and Silver in the Laser Run girls relay. Archie P (Prep 4, U11) took a silver in the Laser Run boys

Two National Biathle Champions

Congratulations to the Leweston School Biathle team for their outstanding performance at the National Schools Biathle event held at Leweston on 9 June With 42 athletes from Year 3 to Year 13, the team showcased their skills in the challenging run-swim-run competition. Many athletes were competing in their first Biathle, making their race completion a remarkable achievement. A big well done to Izzy K (Prep 6) and Izzy W (Year 10) who were both crowned National Champions!

South West Schools Laser Run

Leweston athletes excelled at the South West ble success dals in ams secured 5 ompetitions etition, f our

EQUESTRIAN

4 National Champion titles for Leweston Riders!

Congratulations to all 13 of our students who attended the NSEA National Championships Eventers Challenge, and National Inter-County SJ and Dressage Championships, at The All England Jumping Course in Hickstead. Our riders achieved fantastic results, the most impressive we have seen recent years, including 4 National Champion Titles and 16 qualified Individuals!

Equine Management BTEC introduced from September 2024!

From September 2024, Leweston School will offer the Equine Management BTEC in Sixth Form. Equine Management provides two different options: BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate (equivalent to one A Level) or BTEC National Extended Diploma (equivalent to three A Levels). Both qualifications offer an engaging programme to students who want a career in the equine sector as well as a range of higher education courses in equine management

If you would like to find out more about studying Equine Management BTEC, please contact admissions@leweston.dorset.sch.uk

National County Show Jumping Champion

Congratulations to our Equestrian riders who competed at NSEA Hickstead and came National County Show Jumping Champions in the Intermediate (90-95cm), when our team held onto their top spot after the first round and rode thrilling jump-off rounds to win the National County SJ title Many congratulations to Molly C (Year 10), May S (Year 9), Jessica W (Year 9), and Poppy Y (Year 9). These National Championships are the always competitive and only qualified teams and Individuals can compete. We are thrilled to have won a Team National Title for the third year running and to take so many top eight placings, it really was our very best results at Hickstead.

BOARDING AND INTERNATIONAL

Over the course of the Summer Term, boarders at Leweston have enjoyed a wide range of activities and trips, enhancing friendships, learning and long-lasting memories!

The term kicked off with a heartfelt greeting from our boarding team, reuniting with familiar faces and acquainting themselves with our ne international short-stay students

Our boarders embarked on thrilling adventur such as Splashdown, Go Ape, Xtreme Falconr and caving, showcasing their bravery and resilience.

They participated in a range of activities including Tennis, Letter Writing Club, Bowlin and the Boarding Olympics, masterminded by Eduardo (Year 8). In addition, they enjoyed Inflatables in the Leweston pool, leisurely dog walks, and an electrifying evening cheering on Leweston's Rock Band 'The Lites' in concert

During a fishing expedition, our boarders achieved some impressive catches and took some time to unwind during Wellness Weekends, creating beautiful Mindfulness

Murals in the boarding common rooms

Short-Stay Studen for the Summer!

During the Summer Term we always welcome new, and returning, short-stay students who join us for half a term or a term to expand their English vocabulary and experience an English education.

Thank you to our boarding team and boarders for a memorable term!

Follow Lewestonboarding on Instagram for the latest news and updates.

This term we welcomed some fantastic students who all enjoyed expanding their vocabulary during their EAL classes with Mrs Quick, Director of International Students. The EAL classroom at Leweston is a thriving holistic learning environment that provides international students with all the linguistic tools that they need to immerse themselves fully into school life.

After half term they had the opportunity to go on trips to explore the Dorset coastline and other English landmarks.

EAL Classes at Leweston

The Leweston English as an Additional Language (EAL) classroom provides a dynamic and diverse environment for international learners. While some students are striving towards obtaining The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) certificate, others are focus on expanding their vocabulary to excel in various subjects a school exams.

Engaging in vocabulary games and lively debates on diffe topics is a common sight in the EAL classroom. The sma sizes at Leweston allow for personalised lessons tailored student's abilities, with two dedicated teachers guiding th and lower-level classes in sync.

As a 'bring your device' school, students have access to a of interactive programmes on laptops to enhance their knowledge and skills. However, traditional methods like in books remain essential for honing spelling and gramm proficiency.

Students needing extra support can benefit from personalised 1:1 sessions with Mrs. Quick, Director of International Stud focusing on vocabulary and subject-specific topics.

In the Sixth Form, our international students have been working towards achieving their IELTS qualifications, w universities typically requiring a score of 6 or above for courses.

This term students have enjoyed an array of vocabulary International Speaking Competitions and topic debates

Congratulations to our 4 Spanish students who travelled at the end of term to sit their B2 CEFR exams and to all international students who continuously work hard and immerse themselves in our school community.

Boarders go caving!

IN THE LAB

Analysing Circuits in Physics

Our Year 12 Physics students have been experimenting with proving the theory of internal resistance in power sources.

By adjusting a variable resistor, they could control the current in a circuit and gather a range of readings. This project required not only hands-on work but also graphing data and interpreting the results.

Particle Masterclass at Swansea University

Physics Teachers, Mr Nejako and Mrs Valentine, took their Year 12 students to a Particle Masterclass at Swansea University this term. Here they learned about antimatter, laser cooling, and how to find the Higgs Boson. They then used the CERN software to interpret data, and special mention must go to Ollie P who found the correct signature for the Higgs Boson!

Creating Salts in Chemistry

Year 9 students successfully produced a pure sample of a soluble salt by following specific techniques Students carried out a quick and safe method for preparing hydrated copper sulfate crystals from copper(II) oxide and sulfuric acid. The activity involved essential chemical techniques such as heating acid with a water bath, filtration, and crystallisation Beautiful blue crystals were obtained toward the end of the lesson. The lesson was summarised by writing the reaction in words and the balanced symbol equations.

ACADEMIC

Year 12 Geography Fieldwork

During the National Festival Of Fieldwork in June, Year 12 Geography students had an amazing time at Skern Lodge in Appledore, Devon, conducting fieldwork to prepare for their Non-Examined Assessment (NEA). They explored Appledore, Bideford, and Westward Ho!, focusing on quality of life, changing places, perception of place studies, coastal processes, coastal management, and carbon studies in Kenwith Valley.

The students worked diligently, enjoyed each other's company, and left with fresh ideas for their own data collection for their NEAs.

Poetry Success

The English Department is proud to announce some impressive achievements from the Summer Term.

Best in Region in UKMT Maclaurin Olympiad!

Congratulations to Tomoe, Year 11, who achieved the South West Best in Region certificate for the UKMT (United Kingdom

Mathematics Trust) Maclaurin Olympiad 2024. Dr Geoff Smith MBE, Chair of the UK Maths Trust, wrote to Tomoe to congratulate her on an exceptional achievement.

Further well done to all of our talented students who participated in the Junior UKMT Mathematics Challenge. They achieved impressive results with a total of 16 Bronze, 12 Silver, and 1 Gold award!

Imogen B (Year 11) was one of the ten winners of the Simon Powell Poetry Prize for her poem 'Restless Night'. This is a national competition organised by ‘Poetry Live’, which was attended by all our Year 11 students in February Imogen was informed that ‘it was a very strong field this year, with hundreds of great entries, so you have done particularly well’.

Part of the prize is a collection of books from the ‘Poetry Live’ poets, as well as an invitation to read her poem in front of hundreds of GCSE students at one of next year's ‘Poetry Live’ events The other section of the prize is to attend a writing workshop hosted by the acclaimed poets, Daljit Nagra and Imtiaz Dharker, at the Barbican, London.

Alex H, Alice M and Alma M all entered this year's ISA Poetry competition. They all produced fantastic pieces of work, with Alma making it to the final

The judge for the competition, Debra Bertulis, said "The standard was incredibly high, a cliché, but very true. Every single poem was written from the heart. How do I know? Because each poem made me feel something, and that’s what a good poem does."

Read the full Blog post on our website.

A reflection on the move to BYOD

In January 2024, Leweston transitioned into a Bring Your Own Device School for students from Year 7 to 12. Mr. Stephens, Computer Science teacher, delved into the advantages of integrating BYOD in educational environments and the ways it has boosted productivity and adaptability on our School Blog. The advantages include;

Empowering students with device choice

Enhancing collaboration and communication

Increasing access to resources

While the shift to a BYOD school has brought about numerous positive changes, we have been diligent in ensuring that the introduction of laptops does not overshadow traditional teaching methods. Some tasks are still completed in traditional books or folders and assessments are handwritten for students, with exceptions for those with individual needs arrangements, this method aligns with the requirements of external exams and helps ensure students are wellprepared for them.

Books and writing remain as crucial as ever, but incorporating digital devices has already significantly expanded the array of resources available to students.

‘The BYOD system allows pupils to access links directly and explore them independently such as Google Earth and Geographical Information Systems (GIS), without the need to book out the computer room ’

- Mrs Dencher, Head of Geography and Director of Teaching and Learing

‘I feel having my laptop has really improved my quality of work and my confidence in my spelling and grammar ’

- Year 9 Student

CAREERS

Year 8 Create Social Media Posts

In their Careers studies, Year 8 pupils have continued to create their own social media post for the School channels, promoting an area of their choosing or highlighting their experience at school. They had the freedom to write about anything they wanted. Below are two examples;

“In Year 6, I applied for the Art Scholarship but it wasn’t my year Now, in Year 8, I decided to try again and to my delight I was awarded the Scholarship for Year 9. Leading up to the assessment I filled a sketchbook with all my best art and practiced ready for the still life test I was so, so, so nervous but in the end my resilience came through and now I wear my badge with pride.” - Alice, Art and Design Scholar

"For the first Leweston Cricket Tour, Year 7 to 9 players from our A team travelled to Surrey for the weekend to play cricket.

Day 1: Upon our arrival at Dunottar School, we enjoyed a meal before heading to their cricket nets to warm up for our game. After a few hours, we started playing, with our team bowling first and me in the role of wicket keeper. I managed to catch a ball, and we fielded and bowled well When it was our turn to bat, I was the first up and was retired on 30 runs. We ended up winning the match, which was a great feeling. After the game, we had another meal before heading back to our lovely hotel, where I had an enjoyable evening

Leweston shortlisted for

Independent School of the Year for Student Careers!

Day 2: We got up at 8:30am in the morning to go shopping in town, having breakfast at a very nice brunch place. We then went back to the hotel and left for the match We bowled first and once again I was wicket keeper and then opening batter.

Unfortunately, we lost this game. We then went to Pizza Express for dinner. Some of us then went home (including me as I had a cricket match the following day)

Day 3: The remaining players went to the Oval for an informative tour." - William, Leweston A Team Cricket player

We are very excited to share that we have been shortlisted for Independent School of the Year for Student Careers in the Independent

Schools of the Year Awards 2024! This is a testament to the supportive and successful careers programme at Leweston. We are very proud of this achievement but also of our Careers Advisor and all our staff who work so tirelessly to develop the careers support on offer to our students.

To find out more about our Careers Programme, please visit our website and discover why we were shortlisted.

EXTRA-CURRICULAR

Leweston Lecture with Matthew Pinsent

We were honoured to have Sir Matthew Pinsent as our guest speaker for this term's Leweston Lecture. Matthew shared his incredible journey as a four-time Olympic Gold medallist in rowing, discussing what it takes to succeed at the highest level of competition He graciously allowed the audience to pass around his medals for a closer look, all while sharing the challenges and triumphs behind each win. Matthew's engaging stories and humour left everyone feeling inspired, as evidenced by the lively Q& A session that followed

Ten Tors

For the second year running, we proudly assembled a formidable team to tackle the Ten Tors challenge, conquering the arduous 45-mile route across Dartmoor over two challenging days. With unwavering determination, the team dedicated months to rigorous training, honing their map planning skills, and enhancing their outdoor survival and safety knowledge. Each member astounded themselves with their resilience and stamina, creating unforgettable memories and forming enduring bonds of friendship along the way.

Gold DofE students go to Buckingham Palace

We are extremely proud of our Sixth Form students who received their Gold Duke of Edinburgh awards at Buckingham Palace. It's amazing to see their years of dedication to expeditions, volunteering, and residentials recognised with this incredible achievement!

Chloe, Ellen and Tully shared their tips for younger students considering taking on the DofE Award:

1.Choose activities that align with your interests and passions This will make the experience more enjoyable and rewarding.

2 Set realistic goals for each section and create a plan to achieve them. Break down your goals into smaller milestones to stay motivated

3. Embrace challenges and step out of your comfort zone The Duke of Edinburgh Award is designed to push you beyond your limits and help you grow

4. Take advantage of the support and guidance provided by your leaders, teachers and mentors They can offer valuable insights and advice.

5 Reflect on your experiences and the skills you've developed. Use these reflections to enhance your personal growth and build self-awareness.

6 Although it seems like a lot of time and effort, KEEP GOING, the award ceremony is so worth it!

Read our Blog ‘Making a Lasting Impact Through the Duke of Edinburgh Award’

Mr Paget-Tomlinson (Headmaster), Sir Matthew Pinsent, Gracie W (Head Girl 2024/25)

EXTRA-CURRICULAR

Year 8 France Trip

In early June, a group of Year 8 students embarked on a weeklong trip to France with the aim of enhancing their French language abilities and immersing themselves in the rich culture of the country. Whilst there they visited Avallon, BourgogneFranche-Comté, had daily French lessons, cultural excursions, and many memorable experiences.

“When we arrived, our teachers and the staff explained the rules to us, after we had unpacked our suitcase in the room. The rooms were divided by gender. For me, as an international boarder, being away from my parents and living in another place was not a new experience, however it was for other people, which was their first time travelling. Perhaps you must be wondering if they had a terrible time, but it was completely the opposite, it was an amazing event for everyone. Not only did it help in improving our French, but we also grew our relationships with our classmates, and we even began making friendships with the French people that we met ”

-Eduardo CS

“It was definitely one of the weeks of my life that I will always remember!” - Ines

Summer Term Activities

This term, students had a wide range of activities and clubs to choose from for their lunchtime and after-school enrichment! Choices included Music Theory, Strength and Conditioning, Rock Band, Tennis, Laser Run, Book Club, German Club, Art Academy, Dance Club, and more. One standout activity this term was sailing. Students in Years 7 to 10 had a brilliant time at the after school sailing session at Portland Sailing Academy, demonstrating their perseverance as they learned new skills and improved existing ones!

Year 7 Camping Trip

Year 7 had a fantastic camping trip with The Bushcraft Company near Badminton Woods in Gloucestershire. They took on survival challenges like fire shelter-building, a throwing, and toolmaking. Ca stories, songs, and got talent' added to

OA Visits our Psychology Students

We were delighted to welcome back 2019 leaver, Jessica. During her time as a student at Leweston, Jessica enjoyed studying Psychology at A Level with Mrs Hunt

Jessica gave an insightful and interesting talk to our current Year 12 and 13 Psychology students about her career journey in Human Factors, offering insights into university and job hunting.

Year 12 Visit Merton College

Year 12 students experienced a captivating visit to Merton College Oxford, exploring the stunning campus, learning about the application process for Oxford and Cambridge, and engaging in thought-provoking interview question workshops.

Introducing our 2024/25 Prefect Team!

These student ambassadors represent our school, taking on extra duties to grow their leadership abilities and contribute to areas where they can make a positive impact We can't wait to see the ideas and initiatives our new team brings to our school community.

Planting Leavers’ Trees

Three oak saplings were planted in our Reflection Garden by Year 13 students. These trees symbolise the Leweston Leavers of this year, and we hope that in years to come when they return, the trees will have grown and flourished much in the same way they have

Leavers’ Mass and Ball!

The Italian Garden was filled with laughter and trips down memory lane as students and staff came together to celebrate the end of an incredible journey.

Students, staff and family then attended the Leaver's Mass and Gowning Ceremony held n our School Chapel. This cherished radition marked a significant milestone for our Year 13 students as they passed the baton of Prefect responsibility to their Year 12 successors.

The following evening, Year 13, family and staff enjoyed their Leavers' Ball. With the heme 'Tuscany at Night', students enjoyed delicious food and a disco in the marquee! our amazing Year 13, rry the lessons, t of our school with on their new them all the best and d for greatness. We they achieve.

COMMUNITY AND CH

Re-dedication of Leweston Cemetery

On behalf of the Sisters of Religious Instruction, we were delighted to welcome guests, staff, Governors, Belgian Sisters and Sisters from St Antony's Convent, Sherborne for the re-dedication service of the cemetery at Leweston School, now called St Antony's Garden.

Many thanks to Monsignor Robert Draper, parish priest of Sherborne, for leading the service and to the School Governors for all of their support for the service.

Well done to our music students and scholars who read and sang beautifully.

Marian Devotion

Donations for Sherborne Food Bank

Throughout this academic year students have got involved with many initiatives in order to raise funds for Sherborne Food Bank, from the Dragon Boat race to Harvest offerings During the Summer Term, Year 9 had a lesson on food budgeting and the increase in the use of Food Banks within our communities. In their final PSHRE lesson of the year, Year 9 went on a trip to the supermarket to shop for the Sherborne Food Bank. Each student contributed £2, and in teams of 5, with a budget of £10 to spend, they completed their shop. The goods went directly to the hungry, and families in crisis, within our own community

During the season of Easter our Liturgy centred around Mary, the mother of Jesus, ending with a dressing of the cross. The ‘Flowering the Cross’, as it is known, is a tradition symbolising the new life that emerges from Jesus’ death on Good Friday. One by one students transformed the cross, a reminder of Jesus’ death, with beautiful flowers creating a vibrant and colourful symbol of the resurrection.

Finally, the whole school community joined in a Marian procession around the grounds, concluding at the Trinity Chapel Marian devotion processions, particularly during the month of May, are common practice in Catholic schools. These processions are a part of the broader tradition of honouring Mary as a model of discipleship and provide students with an opportunity for spiritual reflection

LEWESTON SPOTLIGHTS

New Astro

Exciting news! Our newly refurbished astro officially opened in June. Mr. PagetTomlinson, along with members of our Senior Leadership Team and Leweston's Hockey Coach, celebrated the opening by cutting the ribbon. Our enthusiastic students were thrilled to play the first friendly match on the pitch. Students, staff and parents now look forward to our Charity Hockey Festival on Sunday 8 September 2024!

The Good Schools Guide Review of Leweston School

This term, we were delighted to share The Good Schools Guide review of our Prep, Senior and Sixth Form which recognises the aspects of a Leweston education we believe to be the most important; our strong community and family feel, the excellent relationship between pupils and teachers, the vast array of opportunities open to our pupils and our ‘give it a go’ mentality.

“Leweston’s motto is ‘rejoice and do well’ and the school can certainly rejoice in the fact that it does well, very well” – The Good Schools Guide. Read the full review on our website.

Hazel, Year 13, shares her journey as an international student in our latest podcast episode!

During the Spring term, Mr Tomlinson met up with Haz 13, to record a 'Leweston Vo Podcast' episode. They talke Hazel's experience as an international student, her p music and performing arts ( her roles in the school productions of 'Six' and 'Les Misérables'), how studying music in an English School has enhanced her skills, and her recent Diploma exam. The episode aired during the Summer Term, you can listen to it on our website

LEWESTON SPOTLIGHTS

Fantastic results for this year’s Leweston Learner Diploma Students

All of our Year 8 cohort submitted their Diplomas and were awarded; 22 Bronze, 15 Silver and 16 Gold awards. Special mention to Abi W and Georgia S who also bravely presented their Gold awards presentations to the whole of Leweston Prep school.

The Leweston Learner is a whole school approach to learning, which recognises that, alongside teaching pupils subject content and skills, it is also important to teach them about how they learn and how they can approach their learning, helping them to develop a positive, growth mindset This is reflected in the 5 core characteristics– Adventurous, Confident, Creative, Inquisitive, and Resilient Alongside a whole school focus on these attributes, pupils in Year 5-8 work towards the Leweston Learner Diploma, showcasing and reflecting on ways they have shown these characteristics. Pupils put together a portfolio of evidence and then submit in the Easter of Year 8 Pupils can choose to apply for Bronze, Silver or Gold awards. To receive the Gold award pupils need to present to a member of the Senior Leadership Team and respond to questions about their presentation.

Awards

Further to Leweston School being shortlisted for the Independent School of the Year for Student Careers, we are delighted that Leweston Prep was also shortlisted for Independent Prep School of the Year in the Independent School of the Year Awards 2024!

Year 11 Pool Jump!

Following tradition, Year 11 signed each other's shirts before taking the plunge into the School Pool in their uniforms. This ritual signifies the end of their time at Leweston and serves as a memorable way to celebrate their school years together. While most will remain for Sixth Form, we bid farewell to those embarking on new educational paths. After the jump, they enjoyed a delicious BBQ A special shoutout to Mr. Wilford, Head of Year 11, for joining in on the pool jump with the students.

Speech Day

This year's Speech Day was a fantastic celebration of our pup achievements.

We heard inspiring and insightful speeches from Headmaste Mr. John Paget-Tomlinson, Chair of Governors, Mr. Ian Lucas, and from our Head Girl and Boy, Ginny B and Henry B. We were also treated to beautiful performances from our musicians. Special thanks goes to Peter Wilson, our guest speaker who delivered a brilliant speech based on his career as a world record holder, and Olympic Gold medallist shooter, specialising in Double Trap.

We thank our dedicated staff, supportive parents, and the whole school community for making this event and year a great success and wish all of our Year 13 leavers all the best in their future endeavours. We know you're destined for greatness, and we can't wait to see what you achieve.