LEWESTONLIFE
LEWESTON LIFE REFLECTS THE MANY ACHIEVEMENTS OF LEWESTON STUDENTS OVER THE LAST FEW MONTHS
CREATIVE ARTS
Art and Design Trip to Cornwall
CREATIVE ARTS
Read more on this story here:
Leweston named Finalist for ISA Fine Art and Design Excellence Award
Yr9 Architecture Studies
Year 9 students have explored an architecture theme in their Art lessons. They mastered perspective drawing, recreating Laura Oldfield-Ford’s work, and experimented with pen, watercolour washes, and dry point printing inspired by Sunga Park
MUSIC
Leweston Organist performs at Sherborne Abbey
Leweston student Martha played the Sherborne Abbey organ for the opening piece of Leweston organ teacher Paul Cheater’s Lunch Recital This was a fantastic opportunity for her to play in a brilliant setting in front of an audience Also attending was Dr Milestone and other Leweston organ students
On Saturday 6 December, Leweston Music Department held their Christmas Concert. It featured all the Leweston Choirs and Ensembles, including our Leweston Community Orchestra whose members include students, staff, parents, and members of the local community All the musicians performed brilliantly, and it was a lovely start to a very busy musical festive season. th
On Friday 12 September, members of our Senior choir, Schola Cantorum, took part in a workshop with the Choral Scholars of St John’s College, Cambridge - known as the Gents of St John’s - at Cheap Street Church in Sherborne. The choir ended the day with a stunning joint performance of Ola Gjeilo’s ‘Ubi Caritas’ in a wonderful evening concert th
Read more on this story here:
MUSIC
Regular school performances
There are lots of musical opportunities at Leweston including: Staff and Sixth Form Choir, Festival Singers, Schola Cantorum, Cantemus, Jazz Band, Recorder Consort, Baroque/Romantic Ensemble and Guitar Ensemble. We also have a growing collection of bands: The Lites, The Blue Flames, The Blackboards. Our choirs, musicians and bands are the musical heart of Leweston and we love to hear them perform
Schola Cantorum regularly perform at Mass and Liturgy, occasionally alongside the Prep Choir too at events such as our Harvest Liturgy
The Staff and Sixth Form Choir, Festival Singers and band The Blue Flames all performed at the end of term assembly and performed Christmas songs excellently to get everyone in the festive spirit!
Concerts and Festive Singing
This term saw plenty of musical performance, for family, friends and the wider community. Included in the line up of music events was the: Save the Children Concert, Christmas Concert, Thursday music concerts and Sherborne's Festive Shopping Day
Netherlands Hockey Trip
Swimming Success
On Friday 28th November, four of our senior school students: Aiden K (Yr 8), Dexter S (Yr 10), Harry D (Yr 9), and Joanne F-L (Yr 8), represented the South West regional team in the ISA Swimming Finals at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London!
After qualifying at Millfield School in early November as some of the fastest swimmers in the South West, they delivered outstanding performances on the national stage. Overall, the South West team (age groupings from year 4-13) placed Bronze - the highest they have ever placed. The year 9 and 10 boys relay teams also broke their own records from last year in two events!
�� Joanne won Gold in Freestyle Relay (just 1 second off the championship record!)
�� Harry won Gold in Boys Freestyle Relay
�� Dexter won Gold in Medley Relay (Breaststroke) and Boys Freestyle Relay
Pentathlon Success in Turkey
SPORT AND PENTATHLON
more about the production and view the gallery
Cross Country
This term included some fantastic cross country events In September, Leweston hosted our annual Senior Inter-House Cross Country competition, where pupils from Years 7 to 13 represented their Houses - Fisher, Mayne, More, and Campion - racing a 2.5km course through the Leweston grounds. Congratulations to race winners Josh (Yr 13) and Izzy (Yr 12)!
In November, Leweston proudly hosted the annual Dave Barlow Cross Country event, welcoming 15 competing schools Thanks to the generosity of Mr and Mrs Adams, competitors were able to race through two neighbouring orchards, creating a challenging and authentic cross country course. The demanding terrain made for an exciting and memorable day of sport, perfectly reflecting the spirit and legacy of Dave Barlow, a previous
Rugby News
On Friday 27th November, we were delighted to welcome Will Scott, our main shirt sponsor for the 1st XV rugby team, to watch the match against Milton Abbey. Will has supported the team throughout the season by sponsoring their playing kit and it was fantastic to have him join us. A huge thank you to Will for his continued support of Leweston Rugby!
Leweston Students Selected for Dorset & Wiltshire U18 Rugby
SPORT AND PENTATHLON
The Leweston Chedington Equestrian Centre celebrates its One Year Anniversary!
EQUESTRIAN
Further Equestrian News
1. On 14 September, the senior riding squad braved the rain at Kings Sedgemoor EC for the NSEA JWS Arena Eventing, securing several last minute National Championship qualifications Highlights included Annabel G (Mini) 2nd in the 70–75cm, a 1st placed 80–85cm team (Grace S 2nd, Josh E 3rd, Josie M 5th), a 1st placed 90–95cm team (May S 1st, Josie M 4th, Grace S 5th), and May S also winning the 1.00–1.05m and taking the style award in both her classes
2. Equestrian scholar Ruby P (Yr 11) takes over the reins as the new riding squad Captain for the 2025-26 season.
3. At the Moreton NSEA Grass Roots Show Jumping in October, Isadora P earned two 3rd place finishes in the 60cm and 70cm on Sandpiper, while Max R on Bob placed 4th in the 70cm.
4. Hen, Florie, May and Josie secured 5th place in the New Windsor SJ Team Championship in October.
5 BTEC Equine Management students completed their First Aid at Work qualification
6. At the Moreton EC NSEA Grass Roots and RPL Show Jumping in September, Leweston riders delivered excellent results, including 1st for Max R in the 50cm, 1st in the 60cm team (Max R 5th, Florence E, Tilly W 3rd, Isadora P), 2nd in the 70cm team (Tilly W 5th, Isadora P 6th, Florence E), plus strong RPL placings for Josh E with 2nd in the 80–85cm and 4th in the 90–95cm.
7 In November, our team of 3 - Heidi H (Ripley), Annabel G (Margo) and Bessie S (Tigerlily - also 6th in class 1) won the 70-75cm NSEA Hickstead Eventers Challenge Qualifier at Pontispool over a very challenging and long course.
8 Later in November, Leweston riders enjoyed strong results at Moreton EC in the NSEA Grass Roots Show Jumping, with Isadora P (Sandpiper) 3rd and Bella F (Maisie) 4th in the 60cm, and the 70cm team taking 1st place thanks to Isadora (3rd), Bella, and Florence E (6th on Benson) - all qualifying for the Hickstead Festival in August.
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
BOARDING AND INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Welcome to Boarding!
Trip to Thorpe Park
The boarders set off for a trip to Thorpe Park on their first weekend back The outing was the perfect way for everyone to reconnect with friends and ease back into school life at Leweston after the long break. They braved rollercoasters of all shapes and sizes and, no doubt, made some amazing memories
Equestrian Taster
Students enjoyed an exciting taster day with the Equestrian Academy, spending an evening in the stables learning to groom, feed, and care for the horses before trying their hand at leading and riding. After an early start the next morning to help with yard routines, they left feeling inspired by the experience and with a real insight into the commitment and joy of life in the academy and the benefits of boarding for pupils with busy extra curricular schedules
International Festive Social
Leweston School welcomed Sherborne School for an international festive get together on 1 December, bringing over 30 of our international students together for an evening of snacks, games and plenty of laughter The lively drawing competition proved a highlight, and the event offered a wonderful opportunity to strengthen friendships and build a supportive community for students experiencing life and culture in the UK.
BOARDING AND INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Christmas in Boarding!
Boarding Christingle
Our boarders and international students gathered in Leweston's historic Trinity Chapel (built in 1616) for a traditional Christingle service, learning about the symbolism of the Christingle orange and its message of hope and light It was a reflective and meaningful moment that brought our boarding community together in a beautiful setting ahead of Christmas.
Bath Christmas Market
Our boarders kicked off the festive season with a joyful trip to the Bath Christmas Market They enjoyed wandering through decorated streets, trying seasonal treats, and buying gifts from the bustling stalls. It was a perfect chance to relax together and get into the Christmas spirit whilst experiencing UK Christmas culture and community
Ice Skating & Ringos
Boarders enjoyed an action-packed weekend filled with winter fun as they headed out for ringos and ice skating From laughing their way down the slopes to showing off (or discovering!) their skills on the ice, students made the most of the chance to unwind and spend time together. It was a brilliant mix of excitement, teamwork, and plenty of cheerful wipeouts just what a winter weekend should be!
BOARDING AND INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
The Benefits of Boarding
Many parents hesitate to consider boarding school due to concerns about their child's academic progress, friendships, and daily experiences. However, there are some significant advantages for those who board, as highlighted by Mrs Simkins-Smith:
24/7 learning environment: An immersive experience focused on academic and personal growth with a rich curriculum and varied activities.
ACADEMIC
Year 7 Poetry Slam – October National Poetry Day
Our Year 7 Poetry Slam showcased impressive creativity and confidence with more than twenty pupils performing original compositions and much loved favourites - many recited from memory and some with expressive actions. Judged by our Year 13 English Literature students, the winners were:
1st Benjamin Mudge
2nd Asimina Chatzimichalis
3rd Milo Glover
Highly Commended: Indie Pomeroy & Finlay
Ingleby
Senior Maths Challenge
Leweston students achieved outstanding results in this year’s UKMT Senior Maths Challenge, a national competition that tests advanced problem solving and non calculator skills. Fifteen students earned certificates, with Henry Burdge leading the way as Be t i S h l ith G ld d d i place in the prestigious Senio
Other top performers included Jessica Spolton (Silver, Best in Year) and Harry Williams (Bronze, Best in Year), alongside a strong set of Silver and Bronze awards for students across the cohort.
Congratulations to all who took part, it was an impressive display of mathematical talent and perseverance!
Year 10 Geography Field Trip
Year 10 Geographers braved wet and windy weather on 21 November as they carried out GCSE fieldwork in Dorchester and Poundbury, investigating the impacts of urban change. Pupils completed environmental surveys, land use mapping, pedestrian counts and questionnaires in the town centre before assessing the influence of newer developments such as Brewery Square As conditions worsened, the group continued their Poundbury surveys from the minibuses, returning to school for a well earned hot chocolate and to write up their data. Their positivity and resilience shone throughout the day.
MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES
Spanish Play
Year 6-11 students got to enjoy a visiting performance of Romeo and Juliet in Spanish. The play involved welcoming a handful of students to the stage to participate in the performance where they dressed up, recited lines in Spanish and performed to their fellow students. The performance was thoroughly enjoyable and a humorous way for all of the students to learn Spanish.
European Language Week
CAREERS & GUEST LECTURES
Leweston Lecture: How to walk through a Minefield Guest speaker Victoria Stockings talked of her career in humanitarian work and clearing minefields, with a strong focus on travel advice and her lessons learnt about adventure, risk and personal security This highly informative lecture provided excellent and actionable travel advice to all those who attended which included students, staff and members of the general public. We are incredibly grateful to Victoria for visiting and providing such an insightful lecture.
(Photograph: Victoria Stockings with Head Boy Harry)
Leweston Lecture with Milly Churchill
Leweston welcomed Milly Churchill - award-winning designer, master tailor, and author of The Closet Psychologist series - for a Leweston Lecture on the 16 September. It was an inspiring evening as Milly shared insights from her 40-year career in the fashion industry, her journey as a self-published author, and the fascinating psychology behind personal style Milly has continued to work with our students after the lecture to further share her knowledge. th
Careers Fair
th
On Tuesday 25 November, Leweston hosted their Careers Fair with great success. With over 30 stands, spanning two rooms (the Pensabene Library and the Drawing Room), there were many stands for students to visit and explore This included: Banking with NatWest, Equestrian with Harry Fry Racing and the Leweston Cheddington Riding Academy, Land Management and Agriculture with Edward Gallia, Law with Lucy Hawks, Marketing/Public Relations with Prof Tony Meehan and Maureen Wincott, Medicine with Dr Tanya Stead, Military with the Army and The Yeovilton Royal Navy STEM team, Photography with Emma Joyce, and Property and Town Planning with Savills The Fair was visited by many students and families and proved to be very successful. Thank you to all those with stands for attending and assisting our students!
Sightseeing!
First morning camping at Jana Jyoti
School Immersion Day
At Jana Jyoti
Camping near the school
Immersion Day at Jana Jyoti on the Nepal Trip
NEPAL TRIP
Itinerary
Poon Hill Sunrise
Immersion Day at Jana Jyoti on the Nepal Trip
To see the whole photo gallery, please see here
SIXTH FORM
Sixth Form Joining Ceremony
We welcomed our Year 12s into Sixth Form with a special joining ceremony and symbolic candle lighting in the Trinity Chapel. This special occassion marks a fresh beginning and a meaningful step in our students’ journeys as they start their Alevels and progress to be some of our most senior students
Food Bank Boxes
Sixth Formers delivered the many boxes of food our whole student body had donated during the Harvest Liturgy, to Sherborne Food Bank. It was wonderful to see the compassion and effort of our whole school community carried forward with care.
Head of Schools Conference
Head Prefects Dominiqe P and Harry B attended the Head of Schools Conference at Wells Cathedral School in September. The event supports newly appointed Heads of School through workshops and discussions on leadership, public speaking, managing pressure, and balancing priorities. It is also a great opportunity to connect with fellow student leaders from across the UK.
Anchor and Buzzard
Throughout the year, our Sixth Formers get together for social evenings which are always immensely popular and fun. This term the pupils had their annual Anchor & Buzzard event - a pool party followed by dinner and refreshments served in the Manor House
SIXTH FORM
Winter Ball
To see the whole photo gallery, please see here
During the half term, Dr Milestone took two Year 13 students, Pearl and Dominiqe, to Preveza in Greece for the Douzelage Youth and Education meetings Douzelage is an organisation embodying the values of friendship, cooperation and unity across Europe, connecting 28 partner towns through music, culture, sport, and education. The meetings were a fantastic opportunity to meet young people and teachers from across Europe, to share best practice, and to discuss views on sustainable tourism and planning for the next generation of Douzelage
Dominiqe was elected onto the Douzelage Youth leadership team, and Dr Milestone became Vice Chair for Education.
FAITH AND CHAPLAINCY
Candle bearers & Servers
Mr B-B Bids Farewell
We are delighted to share that candle bearers and servers have been reintroduced in our school Mass at Leweston! Candle bearers are a poignant part of mass as they carry the light of Christ during the procession, reminding us that Jesus is the Light of the World.
Remembrance
On 11 November, the whole school gathered in the Chapel to reflect, remember and honour those who have bravely served and sacrificed for our freedom. We were grateful to have Leweston parents currently serving in the Armed Forces join us for the service. Thank you to everyone who shared poems and readings, and to Oliver M, who played ‘The Last Post’ beautifully as we observed two minutes of silence.
GIFT Chaplaincy
This year, we have launched GIFT Chaplaincy - Grow In Faith Together. A vibrant new initiative led by our Year 12 and Year 13 students This team will play a key role in shaping the spiritual life of our school by leading liturgies, planning faith based events, and creating opportunities for prayer and service. Our vision is to grow and extend the chaplaincy throughout the school, inviting younger students to join us in living out Gospel values every day.
To learn more about our values and ethos as a Catholic School, please see our website
FAITH AND CHAPLAINCY
Roaming Liturgy
Roaming Liturgy
Mr B-B Bids
Farewell
We are delighted to share that candle bearers and servers have been reintroduced in our school Mass at Leweston! Candle bearers are a poignant part of mass as they carry the light of Christ during the procession, reminding us that Jesus is the Light of the World.
To see the whole photo gallery, please see here
LEWESTON SPOTLIGHTS
The beauty of Leweston
Across the term, members of staff having taken some spectacular images of our school grounds, highlighting the beauty of our surroundings!
Leweston Voices - New episode
In our latest Leweston Voices episode, Headmaster John Paget Tomlinson and Claire Worsley discuss the value of international students, the benefits of boarding abroad and what makes Leweston’s global approach so distinctive They explore how studying internationally builds confidence, independence and lifelong friendships, while offering practical advice for families considering schools in the UK. A thoughtful conversation for anyone interested in global education and the admissions journey To listen, follow the QR code.
Radio Leweston
Leweston has launched Radio Leweston, a new half termly broadcast led by students on our Talent Pathway. Each episode explores school life, upcoming opportunities, and conversations with staff and students, as well as highlighting what’s happening across Dorset. To listen, follow the QR code.
LEWESTON SPOTLIGHTS
Leweston Celebrates 135 Years with a New Strategic Alliance
Leweston is delighted to mark its 135th anniversary with a new strategic partnership with Concept Education, a schools’ group founded by highly respected former independent school headteachers and educational leaders. Their mission is to safeguard independent education for the next generation, particularly well run, affordable Catholic schools, which aligns closely with Leweston’s own long term vision
This alliance builds on Leweston’s many strengths and ensures that both current students and those joining us in the future continue to benefit from the high standards, values and traditions that define Leweston.
Day to day life at the school will remain unchanged, with the Headmaster, leadership team and staff continuing to run the school as usual. Concept Education’s role is to support and invest in our future, helping us preserve our heritage, values and identity while drawing on their additional expertise.
This is a significant and positive step for Leweston and its community one that protects our traditions, strengthens our future and reinforces our commitment to providing an exceptional education for generations to come.
To see the whole Christmas photo gallery, please see here
END OF TERM FESTIVITIES
Christmas Lunch, Jumpers and Inter-House Competitions
As the term drew to a close, the school enjoyed a flurry of festive activities from rocking Christmas jumpers and enjoying a delicious Christmas Lunch to spirited inter house rugby, hockey and singing competitions These events are a brilliant opportunity for students across year groups to come together, show their house pride and shine as a team. The atmosphere was fantastic, and the commitment on display was nothing short of impressive.
Christingle Service
Our Sixth Form students had the chance to make their own Christingles during a Religious Studies lesson before gathering in the Chapel for a private service. It was a meaningful moment to reflect on the symbolism of the Christingle and to share the experience together as a Sixth Form community
Carol Service
It was a delight to come together with family and friends at Sherborne Abbey for our end-of-term Carol Service. Our readers and choirs delivered spectacular performances, providing a fantastic conclusion to the Autumn Term!
The Carol Service at Sherborne Abbey
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
School Concert: Thursday 12 February, 17:00
Spring Half Term: Friday 13 - Sunday 22 February
Charity Week: Monday 9 - Friday 13 March
Senior Musical Production: Friday 19 & Saturday 20 March
End of Spring Term: Friday 27 March
Easter Pentathlon Training Camp: Tuesday 7 - Sunday 12 April (to book, email flahertym@leweston.dorset.sch.uk)
Start of Summer Term: Monday 20 April
LEWESTON SENIOR SCHOOL AND SIXTH FORM VISIT WEEKS:
2 - 6 March 2025 or 11 - 15 May 2025
A fantastic opportunity for prospective students and their families to receive a personalised tour of the school and meet current staff and students, as well as the Headmaster (Scan the QR code to book a visit)
