News & Events
Latest News From the Senior and Lower Schools
Lower School News
On Tuesday 10 February, Lower Twos visited Norwich Cathedral for a morning of rich, cross-curricular learning. The children explored the significance of stained-glass windows and how they were used to tell Bible stories to people in the past. They learned about the history of St Julian and their connection to Norwich and studied how key moments in Jesus’ life are portrayed through the cathedral windows. Pupils showed curiosity, asked thoughtful questions, and represented the school brilliantly.
What a joyful, toe-tapping concert it was! The hall buzzing with excitement as very young musicians from Lower 1 and Upper 1 (some performing for the very first time) took to the stage, beaming with pride and confidence. From the very first notes, it was clear this was a celebration not just of music, but of courage, enthusiasm, and the sheer fun of performing. Smiling families filled the room, cameras at the ready, soaking up every moment as each of our Lower School pupils shared their hard work and musical imagination. The piano pieces sparkled with variety and character. Familiar melodies like Ode to Joy floated out warmly and confidently, while playful pieces such as Whirleybird , ABC Playtime , and Up and Down Song bounced along with energy and charm. More atmospheric moments appeared too, from the gentle magic of Walking in the Air to the bouncy rhythms of Minnie Mouse Hits The Town! There were also lovely storytelling moments at the piano, with music inspired by wildlife, farmers, and even a cheerful boat ride or two. Every performance, no matter how short was delivered with huge smiles, careful concentration and an infectious sense of joy. Overall, the L1 and U1 Informal Concert was a heart-warming showcase of young talent and growing confidence. The enthusiasm of the performers, the supportive energy of the audience, and the wide range of music made it a truly uplifting event, one that left everyone applauding loudly and walking away with happy hearts.  Head of Music Mr Vine said 'another fantastic concert full of music making at its finest! So proud of our L1 and U1 pupils who worked so hard to get their pieces ready. A big thank you as always, to our fabulous visiting music tutors for all their guidance and preparation! Bravo to all!'
On Tuesday 3 January, Upper 2 visited Norwich Synagogue as part of their learning about the local community. The children were immersed in an enriching experience that helped them develop an understanding of different cultures and traditions. They particularly enjoyed dressing up with a kippah and a tallit, and were fascinated by the opportunity to view the Torah scrolls. The visit provided a valuable and memorable insight into the Jewish faith and community around us.
Senior School News
This half term saw the 1st VII Sevens squad compete in two competitive 7s festivals, gaining valuable experience against strong opposition. On 3 February, the 1sts took part in the Saints 7s Festival at Oundle School. After winning their group with convincing performances against Ousedale School and Wollaston School, the team progressed to the Cup qualifier, where they faced a very strong Rugby School side and suffered a narrow defeat. The final game of the day was a Plate quarter-final against Finborough School. Despite leading for much of the match and playing some excellent 7s rugby, Finborough scored on the final play to win 26–22. William Hawkins was named Player of the Festival for his performances throughout the day. The 1sts then competed in the New Hall 7s Festival on 8th February, which proved to be a more challenging day. Drawn in a strong group alongside Campion School, Finborough School, King’s Ely, and RHS, the team secured one victory against RHS. This result progressed them to the 5th-place play-off, where they were narrowly defeated by Victory College. While results were tough, the day provided important learning opportunities for future competitions. Levite Oyelakin was awarded Player of the Festival.  The U15s took part in the U15 County Cup 7s, hosted by Norwich School at Redmayne. Norwich topped their group following strong performances against Hethersett Academy, Diss High School, and Acle Academy. In the semi-final, the team delivered an outstanding 22–0 win against Gresham’s School. The final saw Norwich face Wymondham College in what proved to be their toughest test of the tournament. Norwich emerged victorious with a 17–7 win, conceding their only try of the competition. This was an exceptional team performance, with Ben Lowe being named Player of the Tournament.
It’s been a busy and inspiring half term across all sections at 8th Norwich Sea Scouts, with young people learning practical skills, building confidence and having plenty of fun along the way. A real highlight this half term was a visit from the East Anglian Air Ambulance , who delivered CPR and first aid sessions to Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers. These engaging sessions gave every young person the chance to learn vital life-saving skills in an age-appropriate and memorable way – an experience they’ll carry with them well beyond Scouts. Beavers (U1 & L2) Our Beavers have explored a wide range of activities, including: Air Badge Photography International Badge work Celebrating Chinese New Year Each session focused on curiosity, creativity and teamwork, helping Beavers grow in confidence while trying new things. Cubs (U2 & U3) Cubs have enjoyed a varied and creative programme this half term: Making bird feeders and learning to identify common birds A creative visit to the Apple Store Teamwork and confidence-building activities Night Hike to Lionwood Pack Forums, giving Cubs a voice in shaping their programme Backwards cooking challenges U3 Cubs have been preparing to move up to Scouts next term, while L3 Cubs have begun developing leadership skills in their new roles as Sixers and Seconders. Scouts (L4 & L5) Our Scouts have been busy developing outdoor and teamwork skills, including: Working in patrols Building and testing fire rafts Rowing time on the gig A fun and challenging treasure trail These activities have helped Scouts build independence, resilience and leadership in a practical setting. Explorers (M5 & U6) Explorers have continued their Survival Badge work, focusing on: Water filtration and navigation Exploring different fire-lighting methods A Burns Night supper was enjoyed, complete with haggis and neeps Alongside this, many Explorers are making strong progress towards their Platinum, Diamond and King’s Scout Awards, with ongoing work linked to international and community values. Pancake Fun Across All Sections To round off the half term, every section got involved in pancake making and cooking. Explorers took it a step further with American-style pancakes, showing off their confidence and cooking skills. U4 & L5 were introduced to our first Leadership camp last weekend, preparing them for Patrol Leadership at Summer camp. Scouts and Explorers have also enjoyed sailing and powerboating from NBYC, Rookie Silver Lifeguard training, Pool kayaking and swimming. Many are also setting off for a Peak District adventure of hiking, biking, climbing and caving over half term. Congratulations to seven of our Explorers for achieving their Young Leader Belt, which takes many, many months of consistent enthusiasm, hard work and the completion of 10 scout training modules. Toby Adlam, Will Brown, Oliver Clark, Isaac Latter Casas, Harrison Newman, Adam Smith, Hector Turner; BRAVO
It has been an exciting and busy start to the Lent term for Boys’ Hockey. In the Junior section, we have enjoyed a number of competitive and entertaining fixtures against strong local opposition, as well as schools from further afield, including The Perse and Felsted. The U13A side, in particular, have impressed with their attacking intent and commitment to playing an expansive, entertaining style of hockey. Our Inters have also performed well across a demanding programme of block fixtures against Felsted, Culford, The Perse and Langley School. Across these rounds, the boys demonstrated resilience and teamwork, securing a series of positive results and continuing to build momentum as the term has progressed. For the Seniors, competition has been equally fierce. Fixtures against Felsted, Culford and The Perse have been played with real intensity, with the boys showing excellent commitment and energy throughout. The new-look, youthful 1st XI have made a particularly strong start, winning six of their eight matches, with one draw and one narrow defeat. Scoring an impressive 47 goals, they recorded standout victories over Felsted (12–2), Culford (7–0) and Framlingham College (7–0). They have now qualified for the Tier 1 Plate competition and reached Round 3 of the Independent School Cup.  We now look ahead to the second half of term, with further block fixtures against Ipswich, Gresham’s, Framlingham and RHS. Well done to all players and staff for an excellent start to the season.
Blog
God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day. Thus the heavens and the earth were completed in all their vast array. By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done. (Genesis 1:31 – 2:3) Well done for getting to Friday, everyone; we’re nearly at half term. Sometimes the days of January and February can feel a bit gloomy and cold; if you’ve been feeling like that at all, then spare a thought for some parts of Devon and Cornwall, where it has rained every day this year, and for the residents of Aberdeen, where the sun has disappeared completely for three weeks. When things are like this, there’s a danger that one day just runs into another. I came across this poem recently: Monday is a foggy haze, Tuesday is a frantic daze. Wednesday drags its heavy feet, Thursday thinks of food to eat. Friday shouts, "I'm finally free!" Saturday is a shopping spree. Sunday hides behind the door, And then we start the mess once more. I’m sure none of us really wants life to be like that – a foggy haze or a frantic daze, a mess that just keeps repeating itself. There is some wisdom from the very beginning of the Bible, and which I think can help us here (we heard it in our reading just now). We’re told that on the seventh day God “rested from all his work”. But he doesn’t just collapse, exhausted, on a heavenly sofa and start playing Candy Crush Saga on his phone for the entire weekend. It’s more optimistic than that. “God blessed the seventh day and made it holy , because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done.” The opening chapters of Genesis want, more than anything, to teach us some lessons for life – and a couple of lessons for us to learn here are that rest is important and days can be holy . Rest is important . You might feel that’s so obvious it doesn’t need saying – especially if right now you’re feeling ready for a rest. But this might just be something to remember for the future – for a time when your days are no longer dictated by school routines and timetables, and when the phrase ‘work/life balance’ starts to mean something. I had an experience of this myself when I went to university and for the first time I could do what I wanted, when I wanted. The thing was, I always had work that needed doing, and I just sort of did it all the time whenever I had spare moments. I noticed there were certain times when I found it really difficult to work – it was so hard to get going – often on Sundays, in fact. In my third year I made what felt like a bold decision. I decided to try out the Sabbath principle in Genesis; I stopped doing work on Sundays. And it worked for me. It didn’t make any difference to my overall output – I didn’t fall behind – and what was more, I was happier. A simple, perhaps an obvious lesson: rest is something we need to do, just as work is something we need to do. Days can be holy . The word ‘holy’ here means simply ‘set apart’ – which is to say that some days are different to others; they have a particular purpose. We are at a time of year where there is a confluence of special days in the calendar. For one thing it’s Valentine’s Day tomorrow, a day for telling people we love them. Tuesday is Pancake Day; be aware as well that for Muslims it’s the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan. For Christians, Wednesday is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent – a time set apart for serious thinking about our habits and attitudes. After we return from half term it will be the Hindu festival of Holi, which celebrates brightening Spring Days and the triumph of good over evil. Whether you consider yourself an observer of these days or not, it is good to be aware of them; partly, of course, so that you can understand the people around you who are observing these holy days; but also to learn the principle that we do need red-letter days in our calendars – it is a human necessity – otherwise life becomes a foggy haze. Perhaps start with this half-term; see the days ahead of you as set apart, special, more than just Candy-Crush-on-the-sofa time. Remember that the word “holiday” itself is the words ‘holy’ and ‘day’ joined together. I started with a rather pessimistic poem; I want to finish with a more optimistic one. This is called ‘Mela’, which is the Sanskrit word for ‘festival’. Listen to the reading; listen to the hymn. Today it is a holy day. Let us think of him Who guided us, and brought us From darkness into light. Into sudden morning, out of darkest night. Let us eat together; let us take our ease. Let us throw our weapons down. Here, we are at peace. And before I finish, a little bit of good news: the sun has come out in Aberdeen, and the forecast is sunshine all day tomorrow…
170 Norwich School applications have been sent to UCAS (universities and colleges admissions service) this academic year. As is the norm at this point in the year, many universities (including medical schools and leading London universities such as LSE and Imperial) are still making decisions on which applicants to offer places to. We will share more successes later this term and at the start of next term. We congratulate all pupils on their university offers and offers for apprenticeships and degree apprenticeships received so far. We hope these pupils will understand that the size of the Upper 6 year group means we cannot celebrate publicly all offers. The offers listed here have been chosen to include those for the most competitive courses and to give the school community a taste of the huge variety of courses and institutions that Norwich School pupils apply for. The school’s Apply Plus Programme is run by Mr Pearce. It supports pupils applying to academic courses that require admissions tests and/or interviews. Apply Plus offers so far this cycle: Arthur Dannatt – Mathematics at the University of Warwick Ben Griffiths – Classics at the University of Oxford Melissa Hawkings – Music at the University of Cambridge Celeste Horsman – English Language and Literature at the University of Oxford Thomas Hsia – Computer Science at University of Warwick Thomas Irvine – Medicine at the University of Cambridge Georgia Lloyd – Psychological and Behavioural Sciences at the University of Cambridge Adit Raje – Physics at the University of Oxford Charlotte Scott – Modern and Medieval Languages at the University of Cambridge Emile Verschoor – Natural Sciences at the University of Cambridge Sydney Wylie (ON) – English at the University of Cambridge STEM: Ethan Buskell – Mechanical Engineering at the University of Bath Josie Dixon – Marine Biology at the University of St. Andrews Jeremy Lo – Computer Science at the University of Manchester Humanities: Daisy Massey – Journalism Studies at the University of Sheffield Edith Martin – Liberal Arts at King’s College London (KCL) Alice Strike – History at University of Durham Social Sciences: Rosie Pank – Politics and Sociology with Study Abroad at the University of Exeter Jack Paterson – Business and Management at the University of Durham Sophie Scott – Law at the University of York Languages: Isla Bowles – French and Spanish at University College London (UCL) Tristan Mackay – Philosophy and Modern Languages at the University of Bristol Lily Mei McGruddy-Lo – Japanese at the University of Leeds Creatives: Hollie Blackham – Interior Design at the University for the Creative Arts (Canterbury) Rachel Dean – Drama at the University of Warwick Hettie Holden – Architecture at the University of Sheffield Sport: Nick Conway – full rowing scholarship to University of Washington, USA William Faircloth – full soccer (football) scholarship to University of Wisconsin, USA Niamh Rushton – Sport Management and Coaching with professional placement at University of Bath
How long have you both been playing badminton? Did you start together? Oscar: I’ve been playing badminton since I first watched it on the TV during the Commonwealth Games in 2014 and was transfixed. I asked my parents if I could try it so they found a local junior club and that was that - I’ve played ever since. It started out as playing once a week at the club, then I played more and more often before trialling for the Norfolk County squads and was very pleased to be selected. We both quickly graduated to the advanced sessions and were fortunate to get to play with older players which really helped us to develop our skills. I first represented Norfolk u18s when I was 12 which was very exciting, and I have been able to play all over the country. Oren: I watched a couple of Oscar’s sessions and also wanted to have a go, which probably annoyed him intensely. We were in different groups because I was only 4 years old and had to have a smaller racket, practicing with giant training shuttlecocks or balloons. We both used to play tennis and so our hand-eye coordination was already good which probably helped and I was able to improve quickly and joined him in the older group. Since then I’ve played more and more, and now I play as much as I can. We do spend a lot of time together training and playing, and he coaches as well so comes to venues to encourage and coach us during matches and tournaments. It’s nice that we have badminton in common and he can string my rackets for me and I don't have to pay him. Do you play with the school or outside the school? Or both? Oscar: I have played with the school and helped run the sessions but there hasn’t been a structured programme which is a shame. Outside of school, I am too old for Junior County teams but I now play for the Senior County team and regularly coach the junior squads. I also represent Mid Norfolk in League 1 and Anglia Vikings in the Ultimate Badminton League which is a national team event. I’ve attended international training camps in Europe which have been really hard work but also great fun. The official badminton season runs from September to May so in the summer months we organise sessions to train and compete so that when the season starts again we aren’t rusty. Oren: I did get the chance to play a bit in the Lower School but unfortunately there is no Badminton provision any more for Inters. I would love to play at school though, I think it would encourage other people too. Outside of school I train with and play for 3 clubs, and I represent Tasburgh Men’s team in the adult League. I also play in the u17s and U19s County teams though I’m only 15 which is cool. I train a lot, usually around 15 hours a week plus matches and tournaments. This weekend I’ve had a league match after school on Friday, then a tournament in Oxford on Saturday and an U19s County match against Cambridgeshire on Sunday so it’s a lot of travel, training and playing but I love it. I often do a lot of my homework courtside or in the car because we’re always travelling for matches and training. What do you enjoy about it? Oscar: I really like that you can go to a club night and there is a wide range of playing standards from beginners to County and National players and it’s really inclusive. They also try to nurture those coming up through the junior clubs so that they have a great introduction to the adult game and a lot of support. The idea that I can go anywhere in the country, say for university or work, and can walk into a ready-made community is really valuable to me - it’s like a universal language. I like that it can be both a team sport and an individual one so you get the best of both worlds - teamwork, building relationships with your playing partners and also the challenge of playing singles and being responsible for your own performance; there’s nowhere to hide when it’s just you on court. You have to be really resilient and if you miss a point you can’t dwell on it because you have to focus on the next one. Oren: I like how fast and exciting the game can be; it’s the fastest sport in the world with the shuttlecock potentially being hit at 100s of km/h so you really need to think on your feet. At the same time it’s really tactical and you have a split second to assess where the shuttle is going, where your opponent/partner is and what shot you’re going to hit and this changes with each of the events i.e. tactics and gameplay is really different for mixed doubles compared to singles or open doubles. I think that the more you get into it, the more you realise how technical it is and you’re always learning new techniques and subtle differences in gameplay. Sometimes you think you’re really good and then you watch the next level up or international tournaments and you realise that there’s so much more to do and learn. I’ve been to tournaments to watch and enjoy going to the All England in Birmingham every year which is the world’s oldest tournament and is the one that all professional players want to win, a bit like Wimbledon. While I enjoy watching, I’d much rather be on court playing. Do you take part in any other sporting activities? Oscar: I used to play rugby but after being injured a few times and being unable to play badminton, I realised that badminton was the most important option for me. When the County training sessions were moved and clashed with rugby, the choice was an easy one. I used to play tennis and was invited to represent Norfolk. The problem was that I enjoyed playing but never felt the need to be competitive. Badminton is different for me and I do want to push myself, do better and win trophies and medals so it’s a very different mindset. As well as badminton training, I do Crossfit and go to the gym to maintain my fitness but there’s not a lot of time to fit in other sports, especially with A levels. Oren: I really enjoyed playing tennis and played it alongside badminton for 5 or 6 years but as I progressed, both my tennis coaches and badminton coaches complained that each sport was interfering with the other. Although badminton and tennis seem similar at a superficial level , they are actually very different. When the time came, I chose to continue with badminton and I don’t regret it. Like Oscar, I had to give up rugby outside school to train with the County. I think my mum was quite pleased that she didn’t have to stand in the cold at a rugby or tennis match any more. I’ve got a personalised strength and conditioning programme from my coaches with movements and drills specifically for improving my footwork, agility and stamina. With this programme, training, playing and schoolwork there’s not much time left. Can you tell us about your recent successes? Oscar: I’ve won 13 County championships at all age groups, and am reigning U19 County Champion in Mixed Doubles and Men’s Doubles adding to my previous title in the Men’s Singles. I have competed for Norfolk and coached at ICT (Intercounties Tournament - the premier national junior team competition) several times and helped achieve Norfolk’s highest ever result, as well as captaining the team to the Shires League finals, placing us in the top 8 counties in the country. I recently secured promotion to the top division of the Club League with my team. I also compete nationally and have had successes across the country, most recently at Christmas in my last u19s tournament. Oren: I’ve recently won the Senior (Adults) Norfolk Moderates titles in both Men’s doubles and Mixed Doubles, and this weekend won the gold medal in the Men’s doubles at a National tournament near Oxford. I was 2nd in the u19s County Championship recently, only beaten by Oscar. I am no.1 in the U17 and U19s Junior County Men’s doubles and also have helped my team gain promotion in the Senior Club League. Last year I participated in a 24hr charity ‘Badmintonathon’ run by an ON and was one of the few players who lasted the full 24 hours. Where do you see your future in badminton? Oscar: I’m hoping to compete in BUCS at University and am looking forward to experiencing the competitive programmes and structure that they can offer me. As part of my university options, I’m planning to travel to South East Asia where the badminton culture is very different and I think I can learn a lot there which really excites me. I’ve previously volunteered with Badminton England, working at Nationals and the Commonwealth Games, and was awarded the National Volunteer of the Year award so I would hope to continue being involved not only playing but in the running of the sport. I’m currently volunteering as a line judge with the National Badminton League which is great fun and I’d like to complete my Line Judging and Umpiring training with a view to travelling to international tournaments and matches in an official capacity. Working at the Commonwealth Games really opened my eyes to the power of collaboration and community in sport and was partly what attracted me to my chosen degree courses. I am also on the committee of Norfolk Badminton and coach the Junior County Squads regularly, as well as being on the Badminton England National Youth Forum so I would like to continue in those roles - I love playing but also enjoy the organisation and grass roots work to keep the sport accessible to as many people as possible. Badminton is also bringing some income to me as I’ve started my own stringing business and I’ve already managed to build a customer base which is great and will be helpful at University. I’m involved in badminton in many different ways and I can’t see that changing anytime soon. Oren: I have 2 more years left of competing at ICT and so want to continue to be selected for that and to follow Oscar into the Senior County squad when I’m old enough. In the meantime, I want to compete in the national tournaments as much as possible and to continue representing Norfolk. I’m looking forward to doing my Badminton England Young Leaders qualification and also to do my Level 1 coaching qualification. I’ve had so much support from coaches and club members that it would be nice to be able to give back and encourage younger players. This summer I’m going to an international training camp in Denmark. I’m a bit nervous because it’s pretty intense but I am looking forward to pushing myself. What would say to anyone interested in the sport? Oscar : Honestly, just give it a go. As well as being a great sport, there is so much scope to get involved at club and county levels. I know players at the clubs I go to who have been playing for 60+ years and are still loving it and love to play with the younger ones. There are lots of casual community groups that play locally - it doesn't have to be super competitive, but if you want to take it a step further there are many opportunities. It’s also never too late, I know people who started at my club a year or two ago and they now compete on the tournament circuit and are representing clubs. We went on holiday last year to Vietnam and it was amazing to see the culture of badminton in that part of the world. They have courts marked out on the streets, there are people playing at all times of the day and night and it’s open to everyone; I would love to see it so accessible in this country. Oren: Badminton is really fun at all levels, you can just book a court and turn up with your friends. Also the clubs are very supportive and social, you get to play with people of all levels. It’s really nice that there are ex-England players who are very happy to play with people who have only just picked up a racket. I think that schools should offer more opportunities to play as well, it’s one of those sports where you don’t have to be one of the traditionally sporty people to pick up a racket and hit a shuttle. I saw an article very recently about how the speed and unpredictability of Badminton can sharpen your brain, improve focus and boost cognitive ability so alongside fitness and social interaction there’s no reason to not give it a try. Photo credit - Alan Spink
Meet the Team
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